Refinement of fertilizer recommendation based on Soil Test Crop Response technology for rice under System of Rice Intensification

Abstract

A study on Soil Test Crop Response based Integrated Plant Nutrition System (STCR - IPNS) were conducted adopting an Inductive cum Targeted yield model in non-calcareous sandy loam soils of Lithic Haplusteptat Regional Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Paiyur, Tamil Nadu during Kharif 2013 in orderto develop fertilizer prescriptions equation (FPEs) through IPNS for the desired yield targets of rice under SRI technique. A ready reckoner of fertilizer doses at varying soil test value, for attaining 6 to 9 t ha-1 target grain yield of rice has been worked out. Using these equations a validation trial was conducted on Kharif 2014 at this station. The grain yield of rice ranged from 2.54 t ha-1 in absolute control to 8.65 t ha-1 in STCR-IPNS-9 t ha-1. The STCR-IPNS @ 8 t ha-1 was effective and economical as compare with any other treatments. The deviation recorded in the achievement of targets aimed was within the range of ± 10 per cent (90 – 110 %) proving the validity of the FPEs. The STCR treatments recorded relatively higher response ratio (RR) and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) over blanket and farmer's practice and STCR-IPNS treatments recorded relatively higher RR and BCR over STCR-NPK alone treatments. Post-harvest soil tests for NPK revealed that there was maintenance of soil fertility. The STCR-IPNS @ 8 t ha-1 was effective and economical as compare with any other treatments. Thus, the Inductive cum Targeted yield model used to develop fertilizer prescription equations provides a strong basis for soil fertility maintenance consistent with high productivity and efficient nutrient management for sustainable and enduring Agriculture.