Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a popular fruit crop globally, with the variety Caramosa gaining significant attention due to its unique flavor and superior characteristics. As the demand for high-quality strawberries increases, growers are constantly seeking innovative techniques to enhance crop productivity, fruit quality, and overall economic profitability. Fertigation, the precise application of fertilizers through irrigation systems, has emerged as a promising practice in modern agriculture. This study aims to assess the economic effects of fertigation on the cultivation of strawberry cv. Caramosa. The study involves a comprehensive analysis of the cost-effectiveness and financial viability of fertigation in comparison to conventional fertilizer application methods. The highest soil pH (7.51) and electrical conductivity (0.349 dSm-1) was recorded in Treatment T2 (120% of the recommended NPK dose through drip irrigation). The highest levels of available nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in the soil (310.18 kg/ha, 15.33 kg/ha, and 176.08 kg/ha, respectively) was found in T2. Berry plants treated with T3 (100 % of recommended dose of NPK through drip) demonstrated superior performance, producing the maximum number of fruits, yield per plant (170.20 g) and yield per hectare (6.13 t/ha). Economic analysis revealed T3 as the most profitable, with the highest net return (Rs. 11,04,180) and benefit-to-cost ratio (B:C ratio) (2.58), emphasizing the significance of NPK dosage and application method in optimizing soil health, berry yield, and economic outcomes.

Strawberry, Fertigation, NPK, Net return, B:C ratio

This study highlights the positive economic impact of fertigation on the cultivation of strawberry cv. Caramosa. By optimizing nutrient management, fertigation proves to be a viable strategy for strawberry growers, offering higher yields, superior fruit quality and increased profitability. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers, agronomists, and policymakers, encouraging the adoption of fertigation techniques to enhance the economic viability of strawberry production while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. So far as the yield of strawberry fruits are concerned, maximum fruit plant, yield per plant, yield per hectare, highest net profit and B:C ratio also comes from T3 (100 % of recommended dose of NPK through drip).

Aman, Sumit Bura, Prabhdeep Singh, Dilip Singh Kachwaya, Tsering Lanzes and Aastha (2023). Economic Impact of Fertigation on Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) cv. Camarosa. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 443-446.