Improved mulberry productivity and resource efficiency through low-cost drip fertigation

Abstract

ABSTRACT Improving efficiencies of water and nutrients is considered as a most vital factor for augmenting mulberry productivity. In this study, low-cost drip fertigation (LCDF) systems were evaluated on leaf yield, quality, water use efficiency (WUE), and nutrient use efficiency (NUE) utilizing 12 year-old S1635 mulberry plantation. Treatments were drip tape and drum-kit drip fertigation in different quanta of Recommended Dose (at 50%, 75% & 100%; RD: 67 kg N, 36 kg P2O5, and 22 kg K2O ha−1 crop−1). A plot with surface irrigation at 100% RD was maintained as control. Fertigation of 100% RD produced the best results in terms of growth, leaf yield, and quality, but is statistically at par with 75% RD fertigation under LCDF. Fertigation of 75% RD through LCDF increased the leaf yield by 26% and leaf quality by 56% (TSP: Total soluble protein) and 28% (TSS: Total soluble sugar) as compared to control. LCDF reduced water requirement by 24% resulting in increased WUE (61%) and NUE (63%). Fertigation at 75% RD could be the optimal quantum for sustainable mulberry leaf production in Eastern India; might equally be the climate-smart-sericulture option for economically poor and marginal stakeholders.