Research Article

Evaluation of growth, yield and economics of Okra under different leafy vegetable intercropping systems in Bara, Nepal

Namuna Sharma^1*, Deepika Timsina² and Bhawana Ranabhat³

^1,3Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal

²Department of Agronomy, Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal

*Corresponding author e-mail: namunasharma21@gmail.com

(Received: 15/03/2026; Revised: 13/05/2026; Accepted: 15/06/2026; Published: 20/06/2026)

ABSTRACT

The experiment was carried out in the agricultural field of Kalaiya, Bara, from 5 March, 2025 to 5 June, 2025. This study aimed to analyse the effects of intercropping different locally available leafy vegetables on growth and yield parameters and economics of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). The experiment was laid out in the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) comprising 5 treatments and four replications. The treatments included Okra + Spinach, Okra + Coriander, Okra + Amaranthus, Okra + Rayo (Mustard leaf) and sole cropping (Okra). Among the given treatments, Okra + spinach raised OEY from 6.65 t ha⁻¹ (sole crop) to 37.83 t ha⁻¹, 469% gain, with BCR rising from 1.11 to 4.59, making it the most economically viable treatment. At 30 DAS, plant height was significantly higher in intercropped plots due to a shade-avoidance response; differences disappeared at later stages. At 30, 45 and 60 DAS (0.041, 0.373, and 1.037), respectively, leaf area index was found to be highest in sole cropping (Okra), resulting in superior vegetative performance. Intercropping reflects low additional input cost required for these intercrops (same land, similar cultural operations), combined with the relatively high market value and quick turnover of leafy vegetables. Therefore, Okra + spinach is recommended as the most economically viable intercropping system for smallholder farmers in the Terai region.

Keywords: Okra Equivalent Yield, Benefit Cost Ratio, LAI, Intercropping, Nepal

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