Vol. 10, Special Issue 1, Part J (2026)

Sustainable nutrient management is crucial for improving the vegetative growth of onion (Allium cepa L.), a shallow-rooted crop with high nutrient requirements and low nutrient use efficiency. Excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers often results in nutrient losses and deterioration of soil health, highlighting the need for eco-friendly alternatives. The present field study evaluated the effect of a liquid biofertilizer consortium containing nitrogen fixing, phosphate solubilizing and potash solubilizing bacteria on the vegetative growth of rabi onion cv. N-2-4-1. The experiment was conducted during the rabi season in a randomized block design with multiple treatments comprising recommended fertilizer dose alone and in combination with the biofertilizer consortium, replicated thrice. Growth parameters including plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf length, fresh weight and dry matter accumulation were recorded at 30, 60 and 90 days after transplanting. Application of the liquid microbial consortium significantly enhanced vegetative growth compared to the uninoculated control. Consortium treated plants recorded higher plant height (15-30% increase), more functional leaves and greater leaf length, indicating improved canopy development. Fresh biomass and dry matter accumulation were also significantly higher, reflecting enhanced nutrient uptake and physiological activity. The growth promotion is attributed to synergistic microbial activities such as biological nitrogen fixation and improved availability of phosphorus and potassium. The study concludes that the liquid biofertilizer consortium is an effective and sustainable approach for improving vegetative growth and nutrient use efficiency in rabi onion, reducing the dependence on chemical fertilizers.