Yield Potentiality and Economic Profitability as Influenced by Conjoint Application of Spent Mushroom Compost, Biofertilizers and Mono Potassium Phosphate (MKP) in Marigold

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out under open field conditions during the year 2018-19 to ascertain the influence of spent mushroom compost, biofertilizers and foliar application of water soluble fertilizer, Mono Potassium Phosphate (MKP) on flower yield and economics of French marigold ‘Local’. The results revealed that the overall cost of cultivation as well as the economics of marigold flower production was significantly influenced by various Integrated nutrient management (INM) schedules. French marigold ‘Local’ plants supplied with 75% RDF + Spent mushroom compost (1 kg/m2) + Biofertilizers + 1% foliar spray of MKP (00:52:34) produced maximum yield of saleable flowers (25000 Kg/ha) followed by 75% RDF + Biofertilizers + 1% foliar spray of MKP (23000 Kg/ha) which was significantly superior over the 100% RDF recording 20000 Kg/ha flower yield. Both the above mentioned treatments also recorded maximum net returns of Rs.339171.60/ha. The highest benefit : cost (B: C) ratio of 2.81 was recorded with the treatment 75% RDF + Biofertilizers + 1% foliar spray of MKP.