Fruit quality and marketability of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) as influenced by biochar rates and weeding regime

The field trials were conducted at the growing season of 2020 and 2021 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. The objective of the study was to evaluate influence of weeding regime on fruit quality and marketability of okra fruit under different rates of biochar. Split-plot arrangement in a randomized complete block design with three replicates was adopted in the trials. Main plot treatments were three levels of biochar at 0 tha-1, 10 tha-1 and 20 tha-1, while sub plots treatments consisted of four weeding regimes. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and treatment means were separated using least significant difference at p <= 0.05. The results showed that application of biochar resulted in wider stem, higher leaf area index and marketable fruit yield than the control. Also, a more intense control of weeds was associated with a higher fruit quality and marketability . Uncontrolled weed infestation for whole season caused 96.3% and 92.2% reduction in okra marketability in 2020 and 2021, respectively.