Response of green gram (Vigna radiata L.) to potassium fertilization in coarse textured soils of Southern Haryana, India

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the optimum dose and potassium application on K uptake by green gram and its buildup/depletion in soil to overcome the production of pulses in South West part of Haryana. Methodology: A series of field experiments and on farm trials were conducted during 2012 to 2016 at the Regional Research Station, CCS HAU, Bawal and at the farmers field to study the response of green gram to potassium fertilization in coarse textured medium K status soils of southern Haryana, India. Five levels of potassium (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 kg K2O ha-1) were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications. Results: The results of study revealed that green gram seed yield increased significantly with application of potassium at 20 kg K2O ha-1. Potassium fertilization also significantly increased total K uptake by green gram at each level of potassium application and helped in preventing the depletion of available soil K and enhanced its content in the soil. The mean K use efficiency varied from 38.30 to 54.15 per cent, being maximum with application of 20 kg K2O ha-1 (54.15 %). The mean economic data analysis revealed that benefit cost ratio also increased with potassium fertilization. Interpretation: On farm trials conducted on farmers field revealed that application of 20 kg K2O ha-1 in coarse textured low to medium potash status soils is optimum for higher yield, returns and maintenance of available K status in soil.