Effects of row cover and vermicompost rates on the growth and yield of Pak choi (Brassica rapa subsp. Chinensis)

Abstract

The experiment aimed to determine the suitable vermicompost levels and the effect of row cover with clear plastic (row cover) on Pak-choi plants in Gia Lam district, Ha Noi city. The two - factorial field experiments were carried out in randomized complete block design with three replications in spring and winter seasons in 2020. The first factor was row cover with two treatments: M1 - bare ground; M2 -using row cover. The second factor was vermicompost levels with four treatments: P0-no fertilization; P1 - 6 tons/ha; P2 - 9 tons/ha; P3 - 12 tons/ha. The results showed that using row cover led to the increase of air temperature and air humidity around the plants. Row cover improved plant growth, increased LAI, dry matter and gave higher yield (17.61 tons/ha in spring and 14.92 tons/ha in winter). Applying vermicompost at the rate of 9 - 12 tons/ha in spring and 12 tons/ha in winter gave the highest SPAD, LAI, dry matter and yield, which was reached 18.28 - 19.28 tons/ha in spring and 16.73 tons/ha in winter. In Gia Lam district, Ha Noi city, application of 12 tons/ha of vermicompost combined with using row cover gave the best growth and yield of Pak-choi, which reached 20.33 tons/ ha in spring and 17.42 tons/ ha in winter.