Effect of agronomic practices on growth, dry matter and yield of Rajmash (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)

Abstract

Rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important cash crop widely grown under temperate and subtropical regions. Being a pulse crop it is good substitute of vegetables. To sustain the productivity of such a wonder crop and fulfill the nutritional demand of the ever growing population under changing climate it is necessary to apply integrated agronomic approaches. Integrated management of agronomic practices plays a significant role in the proper growth and development of crops. To test this hypothesis, a field experiment was conducted using Rajmash as a test crop during two consecutive years that is, 2008-2009 and 2009-2010. The experiment was designed using split plot technique. Method of sowing (flat and raised bed) and moisture regime (0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 IW/CPE) was the main plot factor and four nutrient supply systems that is, 100% recommended dose of Nitrogen (NPK) fertilizer –RDF [120:60:40 kg /ha supplied through standard grade Urea (46%N), DAP (46 and 18% P & N) and ], 75% RDF +25% through FYM, 75% RDF + 25% by Biocompost and 75% through NPK + 25% N by Azotobactor was taken as sub plot. A total of 24 treatment combinations were replicated three times. Various growth parameters e.g. plant height (cm), number of branches per plant and leaf area index (%), dry matter accumulation (g/plant) at 30, 60, and 90 and at harvest stage as well as grain and straw yield were recorded. Raised bed technique of sowing with moisture regime of 1.0 IW/CPE along with 75% RDNF+25 % N through bio-compost was found most suitable in term of highest total dry matter production. This increase was positively attributed by significant increase in plant height, number of branches per plant and leaf area index of crop. Application of 100% RDNF increased the seed and straw yield significantly in first year while during second year it was maximum, 23.5 q/ha with the application of 75% RDF + 25% N through bio compost and followed by 100% RDF NPK. Minimum seed and straw yields were obtained under 75% RDF + Azotobactor during both the years while highest values were recorded at F3 and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio. Highest disparity in plant height and leaf area index, under various treatment combinations was recorded at 60 days after sowing of crop. Key words: Sowing methods, nutrient supply system, moisture regime, food security.