Productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris) as influenced by nutrient management in cold desert region of north-western Himalaya

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2012 and 2013 at Kukumseri, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, to study the effect of nutrient management on productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Combined application of chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers increased growth, yield and economics of frenchbean. Application of 40 kg N/ha with and without Rhizobium and phosphate -solubilizing bac- teria (PSB) produced the tallest plants. Application of 20 kg N/ha followed by combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha resulted in the highest dry-matter production. Dry-matter efficiency was significantly higher in N + biofertilizers followed by N , while unit area efficiency was also in N + biofertilizers followed by N 20 40 20 40 and combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha. Significantly higher seed weight was re-