Effect of foliar application of micronutrients on ginger productivity

Abstract

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc) is cultivated in different agro-climatic zones of Karnataka. Correction of deficiency of nutrients through foliar application of micronutrients is imperative to maintain the growth and development of the crop. Hence, large scale demonstrations were conducted and the impact analysis of crop specific ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode-micronutrient formulation (released as “Ginger Special”) on productivity and profitability of ginger in Southern Transitional Zone of Karnataka was carried out during 2016- 19 by involving 429 farmers in an area of 133.20 ha. Foliar application of ginger special (5 gl-1), 45 days after planting up to six months at an interval of 45 days showed significant increase in fresh yield (23.94 t ha-1), higher returns ha-1 (Rs.9,80,300) and higher BCR (2.89). The test farmers who used ginger special obtained a mean additional fresh yield (2.44 t ha-1), additional return (Rs. 99,500 ha-1) besides providing additional employment to the farm workers (12 ha-1). Use of ginger special, created a good impact on productivity and profitability of ginger cultivation and the technology has spread in an area of 500 ha in Shivamogga district of Karnataka.