Studies on effect of organic, inorganic and biofertilizers on plant nutrient status and availability of major nutrients in tomato

Abstract

The present study was aimed to assess the influence of integrated use of organic manures (FYM and vermicompost), inorganic fertilizers and azotobacter and phosphate solubilizing bacteria containing biofertilizers (Azophos) on plant nutrient uptake and post harvest soil fertility status of tomato cultivation. The field experiment was carried out by combining 14 different treatment combinations during winter season of 2005–06 and 2006–07 at UBKV, Pundibari, CoochBehar, West Bengal, India. The pooled results revealed that uptake of major nutrients were significantly influenced by the combination of different sources of nutrients. The finding showed that application of 4 tonnes vermicompost per hectare supplemented with 75% of recommended inorganic fertilizer inoculated with Azophos resulted in maximum uptake of macro nutrients by the tomato plants. Similarly the soil status of N, P, and K was also increased by the same treatment combination. Integrated application of diverse source of nutrients not only increased the uptake of plant nutrients but also improved the post harvest soil fertility and subsequently helped for achieving the much desired crop production with sustainable soil health.