Impact of different production systems on fennel–cabbage yield and soil health

Abstract Crop yields under organic production systems are often lower than those under conventional systems, although organic produce generally shows superior quality and improves soil health. This study evaluated the effects of different organic, integrated, and inorganic production systems on crop yield, fennel ( Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) seed quality, and soil health in a fennel–cabbage ( Brassica oleracea var. capitata ) intercropping system. A 3‐year field study was conducted to evaluate the six production systems (Production System 1—100% organic, Production System 2—50% organic + 50% seed/seedling treatment with beejamrit + ghanjeevamrit + jeevamrit , Production System 3—integrated (50% organic + 50% inorganic), Production System 4—25% organic + 25% inorganic + 50% seed/seedling treatment with beejamrit + ghanjeevamrit + jeevamrit , Production System 5—100% inorganic nutrient sources, and Production System 6—State recommendation) on yield, quality, and soil health under fennel and cabbage. Results indicated that maximum yield of fennel and cabbage was obtained under Production System 4 recording 1587 and 7378 kg ha − 1 , respectively, and this was closely followed by PS 6 (state recommendation). The organic production systems (Production Systems 1 and 2) were recommendable in terms of seed quality, evident from highest content of total anethole (26.26% and 25.73%, respectively), estragole (39.68% and 37.31%, respectively), and fenchone (13.16 and 12.90%, respectively). Besides, the soil health indicators, including organic carbon, soil microbial population, and so forth were also improved significantly in organic production systems (Production Systems 1 and 2). Integrated production systems enhanced productivity, whereas organic systems improved fennel seed quality and soil health, indicating their suitability for sustainable crop production.