
Abstract: Mushroom cultivation has emerged as a profitable agricultural enterprise in peri-urban andsemi-rural regions of Tamil Nadu, owing to its short production cycle, high nutritional value, andincome-generating potential. This study investigates the combined influence of irrigation methods andfertilizer practices on mushroom yield and biomass across different blocks of Chengalpattu districtduring 2022–2024. Using a split-plot experimental design, the effects of irrigation (drip, spray, andmanual) and fertilizer type (organic and inorganic) were evaluated alongside block-level variations.Statistical analysis employing Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed that both irrigation method andfertilizer type significantly influenced mushroom productivity (p < 0.001), with drip irrigation andorganic fertilizer yielding the highest performance. Interaction effects between irrigation and fertilizer were not statistically significant, indicating independent contributions to yield enhancement. Block-wise assessments highlighted subtle local variations, with Madurantakam achieving the highest yield per bed. Visualizations such as boxplots, interaction plots, and heatmaps provided insights into farm-level and treatment-specific performance patterns. The findings underscore the importance of efficient water management through drip irrigation combined with organic fertilization for maximizingmushroom yield and biomass in Chengalpattu district. These results offer valuable guidance forfarmers, extension officers, and policymakers aiming to optimize cultivation practices and ensuresustainable mushroom production.
Mushroom cultivation, Split-plot ANOVA, Irrigation methods, Fertilizer practices, Yield, Biomass, Chengalpattu District
Mushroom cultivation, Split-plot ANOVA, Irrigation methods, Fertilizer practices, Yield, Biomass, Chengalpattu District
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