Effect of Partially-burnt Paddy Husk as a Supplementary Source of Potassium on Growth and Yield of Turmeric (<i>Curcuma longa</i> L.) and Soil Properties

Abstract

An experiment was conducted at the Intercropping and Betel Research Station, Narammala, Dampelessa to study the effects of partially-burnt paddy husk as a supplementary source of potassium on growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa.L) and soil properties during the year 2017. Seven treatments were prepared by using two sources of potassium, namely Muriate of Potash (MOP) and Partially Burnt Paddy Husk (PBPH). The treatments included T1 (zero potassium fertilizer as control), T2 (recommended rate of MOP 100%), T3 (75% MOP+25% PBPH), T4 (50% MOP+50% PBPH), T5 (25% MOP+75%PBPH), T6 (PBPH alone 100%) and T7 (recommended rate of 100% MOP+50% PBPH). For treatment, the percentages of MOP and partially-burnt paddy husk were calculated based on weight basis. This experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Local type of turmeric was used as planting material and data were collected on soil, growth and yield parameters of turmeric. Parameters were recorded at monthly intervals after planting. Results revealed that most of the growth and yield parameters have increased in a similar pattern (T7>T2=T3>T4>T5>T6>T1). Soil parameters also showed significant differences among the treatments due to the application of PBPH. Quality of the rhizome was evaluated based on colour intensity of the rhizome. There was no significant difference between treatments using colour intensity, except in control treatment (T1). The results obtained by the study showed that combined use of MOP (100%) with PBPH (50%) has beneficial effects on turmeric cultivation. Therefore partially- burnt paddy husk can be used as a supplementary source of K for turmeric cultivation to maximize the yield.