Application Of RDF Research Articles

Effect of Micronutrient Mixture on Yield and Quality of Guava cv Lucknow 49 in Sodic Soil

Tamil Nadu occupies 4.7 lakh ha of salt affected soils, in which 3.0 lakh ha area under inland and 1.7 lakh ha under coastal. Among the 3.0 lakh inland salt affected soils, 2.0 lakh ha occupy alkalinity and 1.0 lakh ha under salinity. In Trichirappalli 18,155 ha comes under alkalinity problem. Guava is one of the commercial fruit crop comes well under salt affected soils. The main problem in yield reduction in guava is due to micronutrient deficiency. Hence the present investigation was conducted at Horticultural College and Research Institute for Women, Tiruchirappalli during 2020-2021 in clay loam texture with pH -9.23, ESP-36.52%. . The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) on guava cv. Lucknow -49 planted at 3 x 2mspacing with seven treatments replicated three and ten number of plants per replication were taken. The treatments comprised of T1 – Control, T2 – Recommended Dose of Fertilizers alone (300:150:150 g NPK/tree), T3 – RDF + 100% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T4 – RDF + 125% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree ,T5 – RDF + 100% Enriched FYM TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T6 - RDF + 125% Enriched FYM TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree,T7- RDF +1% foliar spray of 100% MN Mixture Tamil Nadu Government (II approximation) rec .The foliar application of these treatments was made at three times of new flush, 30 and 70 days after flowering. The results revealed that the application of RDF + 100% Enriched FYM TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree recorded highest 50% flowering (33.6%), fruit retention (51.5%), highest yield (42.3 t/ha) and quality parameters like TSS (12.80brix) and lowest acidity (0.42%) followed by treatment RDF + 125% MN Mixture TN Govt. rec.@500g/tree and the same treatment recorded the BC ratio of 3.64 while the control with BC ratio of 2.75.

Effect of Integrated Application of Bio-Fertilizer and Soil Amendments on Growth Parameters of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

The pot experiment entitled “Effect of integrated application of bio-fertilizer and soil amendments on Growth parameters of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)’’ was conducted at the Research Farm of School of Agriculture, ITM University, during kharif season 2022. The soil of the experimental field was sandy loam, having a pH of 8.13, EC of 0.54 ds m-1, organic carbon 0.40%, available N, P, K of 180, 11.09 and 283.40 kg ha-1 respectively and exchangeable Ca+Mg of 1.5 me 100 g-1soil. The pot experiment was laid out in CRD (Completely Randomized Design) with six treatments and six replications. The treatment combinations were: T1- Control, T2- Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (N, P2O5 and K2O @ 20, 40 and 20 kg ha-1 respectively), T3- FYM (10 t ha-1), T4- Rhizobium (Bradyrhizobium japonicum) @ 200 gm 10 kg-1 seeds, T5- RDF + Rhizobium, T6- Rhizobium + FYM. The nodulation (number of nodules and nodules dry weight) was increased with combine application of rhizobium inoculation and FYM over the time (30 and 60 DAS) followed by RDF and rhizobium inoculation. The growth attributes viz. plant biomass, shoot length, root length was significantly improved with the integration of bio-fertilizer, FYM and inorganic fertilizers. The highest result for plant biomass (22.34 gm plant-1) and shoot length (21.78 cm) were recorded in rhizobium inoculation and FYM treatment combination but root length (8.87 cm) was recorded highest in combine application of RDF with rhizobium. Application of rhizobium with FYM (25.74 gm pot-1) produce the highest pod yield followed by RDF and rhizobium (23.65 gm pot-1) combination. The combination of RHZ + FYM has much more favorable results on growth and yield of groundnut and it also enhance the nodulation.

Study on Different Sources of Organic Manures in Comparison with RDF on Growth and Yield of Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2022 at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Division of Agronomy, Coimbatore, to study the different sources of organic manures in comparison with RDF on growth and yield of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with eight treatments and replicated thrice. The treatment consisted of T1 - Absolute control, T2 - RDF 100% (Inorganic), T3 - Vermicompost 100% on N equivalent basis, T4 - Farmyard manure 100% on N equivalent basis, T5 - Farmyard manure 50% + Vermicompost 50%, T6 - RDF 50% + Farmyard manure 50%, T7 - RDF 50% + Vermicompost 50%, T8 - RDF 50% + Farmyard manure 25% + Vermicompost 25%. Therefore from this experiment the results concluded that application of RDF 100% (Inorganic) significantly recorded maximum plant height (228.76 cm), total dry matter production (13485 kg ha-1), leaf area index (LAI) (5.80), chlorophyll content (SPAD) (37.89), grain yield (3770 kg ha-1) and straw yield (6600 kg ha-1) respectively.

Influence of Vermicompost and Foliar Applications on Growth, Physiological and Yield Parameters of Irrigated Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper)

Field experiments were conducted at the South farm in Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Division of Agronomy, Coimbatore, during the Rabi season of 2022. The experimental site is situated in the western agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu, at a latitude of 10°56'N and longitude of 76°44'E, with an elevation of 474 meters above mean sea level. The soil composition of the experimental field was identified as clay loam, moderately drained, and exhibited low availability of nitrogen (202 kg/ha), high availability of phosphorus (12.3 kg/ha), medium availability of potassium (415 kg/ha), and organic carbon content of 0.51%. The experiment followed a randomized block design (RBD) with 10 treatment groups, each replicated three times viz.,T1 - Control, T2 - Vermicompost 100% (on N Equivalent basis)+ Cowdung slurry, T3 -Vermicompost100% (on N Equivalent basis)+TNAU Biomineralizer,T4 -Vermicompost100% (on N Equivalent basis) + (Effective microorganism),T5 - Vermicompost 100% (on N Equivalent basis) + Pleurotus sp + Urea, T6- Vermicompost (50%) +RDF (50%) + Cowdung slurry, T7- Vermicompost (50%) +RDF (50%) + TNAU Biomineralizer, T8 -Vermicompost (50%) + RDF (50%) + EM (Effective Microorganism),T9 -Vermicompost (50%) + RDF (50%) + Pleurotus sp ,T10 - RDF alone. The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of vermicompost and other foliar applications on the growth, physiological characteristics, and yield parameters of an irrigated Black gram (VBN8 variety). The promotion of yield can be attributed to the increased vegetative growth and the balanced carbon-to-nitrogen (C: N) ratio, which likely stimulated the synthesis of carbohydrates. This, in turn, facilitated the overall improvement in seed yield. The application of RDF played a significant role in enhancing growth, leading to various positive changes in yield-related characteristics. Ultimately, the increased seed yield observed can be largely attributed to the improved plant growth and subsequent positive effects on yield-related attributes resulting from the RDF application. Thus, From this Experiment it was Concluded that the RDF (T10) Shows a highest range in growth, physiological and yield parameters of irrigated Blackgram due.

Influence of Phosphorus and Potassium in Combination with Biofertilizers on Growth of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp

During the kharif season of 2018, a field experiment titled "Influence of phosphorus and potassium in combination with biofertilizers on growth of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]" was carried out at the crop research farm of the Division of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir. The soil in the experimental field had the texture of clay loam, was neutral in reaction (pH 6.9), had low available nitrogen, low available phosphorus, medium available potassium, and medium organic carbon. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) design with nine treatments and three replications. The results of the experiment revealed that growth of the crop was significantly influenced by different treatments and Among various treatments, application of RDF (30 N, 60 P2O5, 30 K2O) kg ha-1+ seed inoculation with Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) + Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB) significantly recorded maximum plant height (86.18 cm), leaf area index (3.62), dry matter production (16.20 q ha-1) and it also significantly increased the number of effective root nodules per plant of cowpea.

Effect of Vermicompost and Organic Formulations on Growth and Yield of Soybean Grown on Vertisol

Soybean called as golden beans belongs to leguminosae family. It is native of East Asia. It is rich source of protein and also an excellent source of fiber. Balanced fertilization is necessary to increase the productivity of pulses. Organic manures and formulations favor plant growth and regulation and adaptability to the surrounding environments in terms of improvement in yields and quality parameters in addition to enhanced tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Unlike, chemical fertilizer, these organic products are biodegradable, non-toxic, non-polluting and non-hazardous to humans, animal and birds. Thus, integrations of organic manure and formulations with chemical fertilizer seems to be an alternative supply for plant nutrition. Keeping the above points in view the present experiment were conducted during kharif-2020 and kharif-2021 at Research Farm, Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, VNMKV Parbhani, to study the effect of vermicompost and organic formulations on growth and yield of soybean grown on Vertisol. The experiment was laid in factorial randomized block design with twelve treatments and three replications. Experimental treatments consist of two factors in which one factor consist of vermicompost consist of three levels C1-RDF, C2- Vermicompost eq. to RDN, C3- Vermicompost eq. to RDN + RD of vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1, another factor organic formulations consist of four levels OF0- control, OF1- Panchagavya, OF2- Beejamruth + Jeevamruth, OF3-Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Panchagavya. The growth parameters like leaf area, no. of pods and chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll showed significant increased with the application of RDF as compared to other treatments. Among organic formulations treatments highest value recorded in combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Pancahgavya (OF3) as compared to alone application. The significant increase in seed and straw yield was recorded in treatment receiving in treatment combination of RDF (C1) along with combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Panchagavya (OF3). The result of the experiment revealed that application of RDF along with combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Panchagavya was found beneficial for increase in growth and yield of soybean in Vertisol.

Influence of Polyhalite on growth and yield of sugarcane var. Co 11015 in typic Ustropepts

Polyhalite is a natural mineral which contains potassium (K2O, 14%), sulphur (SO3, 48%), calcium (CaO, 17%) and magnesium (MgO, 6%). It is used as fertilizer for high value crops. Soil fertility, selection of fertilizer sources and application practices are all crucial factors in maximizing mineral nutrition during the cropping season. With an increasing demand for fertilizer, polyhalite was identified as a potassium source for crops. In view of this context, a present experimental work was conducted during 2021-22 at farmer’s field, Arachalur, Erode district, Tamil Nadu, India to study the influence of polyhalite on growth attributes, yield attributes and yield of sugarcane var. Co 11015. The experiment was conducted in sandy loam soil laid out in randomized block design with 10 treatments replicated thrice. The recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus was applied uniformly to all treatments. The potassium was applied in two sources, muriate of potash (MOP) and polyalite in different ratios and levels except control. The results of the field experiment revealed that sugarcane significantly responded to the application of two potassium sources and levels. The maximum values of growth attributes like plant height, number of leaves per stalk, leaf area index, leaf chlorophyll content, yield attributes and yield like, number of internodes per stalk, length of internode per millable cane, length of millable cane, diameter of millable cane, single cane weight, number of tillers per plant, number of millable cane, cane yield and sugar yield were recorded with application of RDF (NP alone) + 150% K (169.5 kg K2O/ha) as polyhalite (T8). The lowest respond was found in the treatment T1, which received RDF (NP alone).

Influence of nitrogen and weed-management practices on crop-growth indices and productivity of dry direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa)

A field study was carried out during the rainy (kharif) season of 2019–20 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to study the effect of nitrogen and weed management practices in dry direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) for obtaining higher productivity and crop growth. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design, taking 3 nitrogen treatments, i.e. No N (P and K only), recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF–N : P : K = 80 : 17 : 33 kg/ha) (3 splits of nitrogen application–50% basal + 25% at tillering + 25% at panicle-initiation stage), 50% N from FYM + 50% N as real-time nitrogen management (top-dressing) as per leaf colour chart (LCC) up to panicle-initiation stage in main plots. Four weed-management treatments, viz. unweeded control, weed-free control, Pendimethalin @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-emergence followed by (fb) brown manuring with Sesbania bispinosa (Jacq.) W. Wight; Syn. S. aculeata [(Willd.) Pers.] (knocking down Sesbania by Bispyribac- Na 25 g a.i./ha at 25 days after sowing (DAS), Pendimethalin @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-emergence fb Bispyribac -Na @ 25 g a.i./ha at 25 DAS in subplots with 3 replications. Result revealed that, Pendimethalin @ 1.5 kg a.i./ha as pre-emergence fb brown manuring with Sesbania bispinosa significantly increased grain yield (2.78 t/ha) as well as growth indices like leaf-area index (1.8 and 4.4 at 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively), crop-growth rate (1.9 g/m2 /day, 8.8 g/m2 /day at 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively), relative growth rate (145.3 mg/g/day and 54.5 mg/g/day 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively), net assimilation rate (0.40 g/m2 /day 3.49 g/m2/day at 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively) and dry-matter accumulation (185.6 g/m2 , 591.6 g/m2 and 1,144 g/m2 at 40 DAS, 70 DAS and harvesting, respectively) to the other treatments. In case of N-management practices, combined use of FYM and LCC-based N management gave the highest grain yield (3.25 t/ha), growth indices like leaf-area index (1.69 and 4.0 at 40 DAS and 70 DAS respectively) crop-growth rate (1.8 g/m2/day, 8.2 g/m2/day at 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively), relative growth rate (145.1 mg/g/day and 55.1 mg/g/day at 40 DAS and 70 DAS, respectively) and dry-matter accumulation (168.5 g/m2 , 523.2 g/m2 and 958 g/m2 at 40 DAS, 70 DAS and harvesting, respectively) comparable with RDF application and significantly higher than the plot without N.

Effect of Vermicompost and Organic Formulations on Yield and Quality of Soybean Grown on Vertisol

The field experiments were conducted during kharif-2020 and kharif-2021 at Research Farm, Department of Soil Science and Agril. Chemistry, College of Agriculture, VNMKV Parbhani, to study the effect of vermicompost and organic formulations on yield and quality of soybean grown on Vertisol. The experiment was laid in factorial randomized block design with twelve treatments and three replications. Experimental treatments consist of two factors in which one factor consist of vermicompost consist of three levels C1-RDF, C2- Vermicompost eq. to RDN, C3- Vermicompost eq. to RDN + RD of vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1, another factor organic formulations consist of four levels OF0- control, OF1- Pancahgavya, OF2- Beejamruth + Jeevamruth, OF3-Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Pancahgavya. The yield parameters like no. of pods, seed and straw yield and quality parameters like protein content and test weight showed significant increased with the application of RDF as compared to other treatments. Among organic formulations treatments highest value was recorded in combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Pancahgavya (OF3) as compared to alone application. The significant increase in seed and straw yield was recorded in treatment receiving RDF (C1) along with combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Pancahgavya (OF3). The result of the experiment revealed that application of RDF along with combined application of Beejamruth + Jeevamruth + Pancahgavya was found beneficial for increase in yield and quality of soybean grown in Vertisol.

Effect of phosphorus levels on nutrient availability, growth and yield of potato crop (Solanum tuberosum L.)

The experiment was conducted on potato (cv. Kufri Khyati) at the main experiment station, Department of Vegetable Science, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.) during the Rabi season of 2016-17. Seven treatments were arranged in randomized block design with four replications. The experimental findings showed that the use of RDF 100 kg P2O5 ha-1 was found better with respect to promotion of growth, yield and quality parameters of potato. The maximum value on growth characters were also recorded with RDF 100 kg P2O5 ha-1 in potato. It was found significantly superior over other treatments in almost all growth characters. The yield contributing characters such as the weight of A, B, C and D grade tubers per plot and the yield of tubers (q ha-1) were influenced significantly by using different levels of phosphorus. The maximum yield (388.79 q ha-1) was recorded with the application of RDF 100 kg P2O5 ha-1 in potato. It was found significantly superior over the rest of the treatments. An application of RDF 100 kg P2O5 ha-1 was found to be most effective for optimum growth: maximum tubers yield (388.79 q ha-1) and maximum net return Rs. 139062 as benefit cost ratio 1.47 on this dose of Phosphorus in the year’s investigation.

Effect of ICM Practices on Yield and Economics in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)

The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of integrated crop management practices on yield and economics of tomato at farmer’s field of Mancherial district, Telangana state during the year from 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22. The farming area available for the production of tomato across India during the financial year 2022 is estimated to have amounted to 841 thousand hectares. The treatments consist of farmer practice (T1) with application of RDF (180: 100: 60 kg NPK ha-1) and direct sowing in the field and T2 consists of raising of seedlings by nursery, installation of yellow sticky traps @ 25 ha-1, staking of plants, marigold grown as trap crop (tomato 16 rows: marigold 1 row) and spraying of need-based chemicals along with application of RDF (180: 100: 60 kg NPK ha-1). The results revealed that the total percent yield gap between potential yield and actual yield of tomato was 52.94 percent, in which 10.38 percent of yield gap between demonstration plot and actual farmers plot yield and 42.56 percent of technological gap. The data (T2) showed that highest yield recorded (34.46 t ha-1) in comparison to farmer practice (25.54 t ha-1) (T1), high net prot (T2) over (T1) with BC Ratio 1.56 (T2) and 1.42 (T1). The experiment showed that the number of fruits, fruit weight and marketable yield were highest in T2 (ICM practices) over T1 (application of RDF: 180: 100: 60 kg NPK ha-1). The adoption of ICM practices shows positive impact on yield (34.46 t ha-1) and economics of tomato through adoption of ICM practices and also decreased the incidence of physiological disorders (blotchy ripening, sun-scalding) and pest-disease incidence (fruit borer and blight infestation).

Micronutrients enriched organic manure and biofertilizer as influenced on multi-cut fodder oat [Avena sativa (L.)

Micronutrients enriched organic manure and biofertilizer as influenced on multi-cut fodder oat” conducted during rabi 2021-22 at MFRS, AAU, Anand 388110 (Gujarat) with ten different treatments i.e T1 RDF (80-40-0 NPK/ha), T2 (RDF + NPK consortia), T3 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched FYM 0.5 t/ha), T4 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched FYM 1 t/ha), T5 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 0.5 t/ha), T6 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 1 t/ha), T7 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched FYM 0.5 t/ha + NPK consortia), T8 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched FYM 1 t/ha + NPK consortia), T9 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 0.5 t/ha + NPK consortia) and T10 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 1 t/ha + NPK consortia) and an experiment data analysis done with randomized block statistical design having three replications. Plant population, plant height at 20 and 40 DAS, DM% gave non-significant differences due to different treatments. An application of RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 1 t/ha + NPK consortia (T10) gave significantly higher plant height at 1st cut (103.32 cm), 30 days after 1st cut (21.37 cm) and at 2nd cut (37.86 cm) and LSR (2.35 and 0.93 both cuts, respectively). Economical yield at 1st and 2nd cut (430.56 & 358.13 q/ha, respectively) and TGFY yield (788.69 q/ha) was observed higher in treatment T10 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 1 t/ha + NPK consortia). CP % (Crude protein) [11.35 and 11.13 % at 1st and 2nd cut] was noted higher treatment T10 and T8, respectively) whereas DMY (Dry matter yield) (63.48, 78.60, and 142.06 q/ha at 1st and 2nd cut and total DMY, respectively) and CPY (Crude protein yield) (7.22, 8.57, 15.76 q/ha at 1st and 2nd cut and total DMY, respectively) by application of RDF + Micronutrients Enriched VC 1 t/ha + NPK consortia (T10). Lower ADF content (29.91 %) was reported in treatment T8 (RDF + Micronutrients Enriched FYM 1 t/ha + NPK consortia) at 1st cut, whereas the response of treatment on fodder oat was found to be non-significant in the case of ADF content in 2nd cut and NDF content in both cuts. Higher gross income (157740 `/ha), and net realization (94887 `/ha) with 2.51 BCR were also reported with T10, while treatment T2 (RDF + NPK consortia) reported a higher BCR of 3.14.

Impact of Nanoscale Zinc Oxide Particle on the Growth, Yield and Soil Properties under Agency Area of Andhra Pradesh

Field experiment was carried out on silt clay loam soils at Regional Agricultural Research station, Chintapalle, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh during 2018-2020 to study the yield of response of rainfed groundnut with different levels of Nano particulate zinc oxide application along with NPK Fertilizers. The experiment consisting of eight treatments, three replications with RDF design. Results of nano particulate zinc oxide on pod yield showed that (24.36 Q/ha) in the RDF+ nano scale zinc oxide level @ 200 ppm at 25 and 45 DAS was increased over to that of normal recommended dose of N,P,K fertilizers (100% RDF) which recorded pod yield of 17.14 Q/ha only. Application of ZnSO4 through soil along with RDF showed good results (17.24 Q/ha) than RDF + Foliar application of ZnSO4 @ 2g/lit at 25 and 45 DAS (20.66 Q/ha). Application of micronutrient (ZnO) had helped in further increase in grain yields at both levels of ZnO (150% and 200% ZnO at 25 and 45 DAS). Among different treatments, significantly higher yield (24.36 Q/ha) was recorded with application of RDF + Foliar application of ZnO @ 200 ppm at 25 and 45 DAS than the only with RDF (17.4 Q/ha). With respect to method of application of ZnSO4 through soil and foliar application ZnSo4 @ 2g/lit at 25 and 45 DAS was found to be higher both levels of RDF (Pod yield of 14.6 Q/ha at RDF + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 and 17.24 Q/ha at RDF+ foliar application of ZnSO4@ 2g/lit at 25 and 45 DAS). With respect to other plant characteristics, comparatively more plant height (43.53 cm) at RDF + foliar application of ZnO @ 200 ppm at 25 and 45 DAS. Regarding yield attributes significantly higher test weight (30.9 g) were recorded at RDF + 200 ppm ZnO at 25 and 45 DAS. Post –harvest soil sample analysis showed highest availability of nutrients in respect of soil, the results revealed that there was no significance difference among the treatments regarding Avail. N, Available K and pH. The lowest Phosphorus (17.20 kg ha-1) was recorded with RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 200 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS and highest (24.46 kg ha-1) was recorded in T9 (RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 100 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS). 
 An investigation was initiated at Department of Soil science, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Chintapalle to examine the effects of nano zinc oxide on Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) growth, yield and Zn content in Leaves, stem and roots. A field experiment consisted of nine treatments comprised of T1: control, T2: RDF, T3: RDF+ Soil application ZnSO4@ 50 Kg/ha, T4: RDF+ Foliar application ZnSO4 2 g/L at 25 & 45DAS, T5: RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 150 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS, T6: RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 200 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS, T7: RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 400 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS, T8: RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 50 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS, T9: RDF+ Foliar application of nanoscale ZnO 100 ppm at 25 & 45 DAS.

Effect of planting methods and nutrient management on growth, yield and economics of mustard (Brassica rapa L.)

Planting methods and nutrient management are the most important factors in increasing the productivity of crop plants. Broadcasting and line sowing are common planting methods for rapeseed-mustard. Among nutrients, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are vital nutrients along with sulphur (S) and boron (B) that play key roles in plants. In present research the effect of planting methods and nutrient management in mustard (Brassica rapa L.) was studied. A field experiment was conducted in the Research Field of the Department of Agriculture at Maharishi Markandeshwar University, Sadopur (Haryana) during the Rabi season 2020-21. A treatment combination of line sowing + T5 gave results with maximum benefits in most of the parameters. At the same time it was also observed that boron and sulphur can also influence most of the traits if applied in an optimum dose. On the basis of the experimental findings, it may be concluded that the application of RDF along with boron and sulphur in deficient areas is recommended to increase the growth and productivity of mustard along with line sowing as an appropriate method of sowing.

Performance of Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) under Different Levels of Phosphorus and Potassium in Combination with Biofertilizers

A field experiment entitled “Performance of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) under different levels of phosphorus and potassium in combination with biofertilizers” was conducted at crop research farm of Division of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, during kharif 2018. The soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, neutral in reaction (pH = 6.9), low in available nitrogen, low in available phosphorus, medium in available potassium and medium in organic carbon. The experiment was laid in RBD design having nine treatments and three replications. The observation revealed that grain yield (10.57 qha-1), straw yield (18.94 qha-1), yield attributes was high with the application of RDF (30N+60P2O5+30K2O) kg ha-1 + seed inoculation with PSB and KSB than other treatments. The RDF+ seed inoculation with PSB and KSB recorded 15.89% high grain yield than RDF (30N+60P2O5+30K2O) kg ha-1. B:C was also recorded more with application of RDF + seed inoculation with PSB and KSB (2.99) and was followed by RDF + seed inoculation with PSB (2.62) whereas lowest benefit cost ration was recorded with control treatment (2.24).

Effect of Rice Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management Practices on Growth, Yield and Economics of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

A field experiment was conducted at Rice Research Farm of Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand,during Kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019 to find out the effect of rice establishment methods and nutrientmanagement practices on growth, yield and economics of rice. The experiment was laid out in split plotdesign replicated thrice with rice variety Naveen as test crop. The treatments comprised of three differentrice establishment methods viz., normal transplanting, wet direct seeding using drum seeder and aerobicrice assigned to main plots and five nutrient management practices viz., RDF( 80:40:20 kg NPK/ha), 75%RDF + 25% N through FYM (60:30:15 kg NPK/ha + 20 kg N through FYM), RDF + 25% N through FYM(80:40:20 kg NPK/ha + 20 kg N through FYM) , LCC based nitrogen application and control (No fertilizer)assigned to sub plots. The soil was clay loam in texture and slightly acidic in reaction (6.2) having 4.3 g/kgorganic carbon, 230.00 kg/ha available soil nitrogen, 36.80 kg/ha available phosphorous, 161.20 kg/ha ofavailable potassium. Results revealed that wet direct seeding of rice using drum seeder recorded maximumgrain (42.19 q/ha) and straw yield (65.22 q/ha) which was comparable with transplanting method butwere significantly superior to aerobic rice. Among the nutrient management practices, application of RDF+ 25% N through FYM produced maximum grain (46.33 q/ha) and straw yield (71.53 q/ha) which wassignificantly better than rest of the treatments except LCC based N application. Among the differentestablishment methods, wet direct seeding of rice using drum seeder recorded maximum net return (58337`/ha) which was significantly higher than other establishment methods. The B:C ratio was also maximumwith wet direct seeding using drum seeder (2.00) which was statistically at par with aerobic rice (1.93).Among the nutrient management practices, LCC based N application gave the highest net return (64030 `/ha) and B:C ratio (2.28).

Effect of Zn and B on Lentil (Lens culinaris) Growth Characteristics, Yield, and Available Nutrients in the Soil

To assess the effects of Zn and B treatment, a field experiment was carried out during the rabi seasion 2020–21 at the Crop Research Center of the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). Ten treatments, each with a different combination of control, RDF, Zn, and B, were examined using a randomised block design with three replications. The experimental results revealed that growth attributing traits viz. Plant population (ha-1), Plant height (cm), Number of branches plant-1, Dry matter accumulation (g m-2), Effective nodules (No. plant-1), Nodules dry weight (mg plant-1), yield viz. grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index and Available nutrient in soil N, P, K, Zn, S and B in lentil differed significantly among different treatments. Growth parameters and yield were significantly better in the treatment T10 (RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1). The highest grain yield was recorded in T10 RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 was applied with Zn and B and was statistically at par with T8. From the study it may be concluded that the application of RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 with Zn and B (T10) gave best results (Grain yield increased by 26.7%, 25.7%, 21%, 22.9%, 17.2% and 59.1% over T1, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T1, respectively) and proved to be beneficial for rabi lentil followed by RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 (T9) also gave better results. Zn and B, together with N, P, K, and S, were used in lentils in a balanced manner to preserve soil fertility while also improving growth characteristics and yield.

Nutrient Content, Uptake and Yield of Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana l.) Influenced by Phosphorus Management Practices

The experiment was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Perumalapalle, Tirupati, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University during kharif season of 2018 on sandy loam soil to study the response phosphorus fertilizer, PSB and VAM on yield and nutrient content and uptake of fingermillet. The experiment used a Randomized Block design with nine treatments and was reproduced three times. Among the phosphorus management practices, application of RDF + PSB @ 750 ml ha-1 + VAM@ 12.5 kg ha-1 (T9) showed its best results with respect to nutrient content and uptake at flowering and harvesting stage as compared to other treatments.

Economics of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac L.) Production Influenced By Split Application of Fertilizers

As a major commercial sector of agriculture, floriculture has emerged. One of the most often used types of jasmine that is grown commercially in India is Jasminum sambac. Time and rate of fertilizers applications can be a part of a successful, economical, and eco-friendly nutrient management plan. Given the aforementioned information, the current experiment was conducted with the aim of determining the impacts of split N, P, and K fertilizer application on the economics of jasmine (Jasminum sambac) production. The experiment was depicted under Randomized Block Designed with five replications and five treatments i.e. 50%N+100%P+100%K at last week of December and 50%N in last week of June (T1), 50%N+75%P+75%K in last week of December + 25%N+25%K in last week of March + 25%N+25%P in last week of June (T2), 50%N+50%P+50%K in last week of December + 25%N+25%P+25%K in last week of March + 25%N+25%P+25%K in last week of June (T3), 50%N+50%P+50%K in last week of December + 25%N in last week of March + 25%N+50%K+50%P in last week of June (T4) and 50%N+50%P+50%K in last week of December + 25%N+50%P+50%K in last week of March + 25%N in last week of June (T5) at Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, India on Jasminum sambac variety Baramasi during the year 2018-19. The highest net returns (Rs. 4,11,729/ha) and Benefit cost ratio (2.71) and were recorded with the application of (T3). The application of application of RDF (120:240:120 kg/ha) in three splits (application of 50%N+50%P+50%K in last week of December + 25%N+25%P+25%K in last week of March + 25%N+25%K+25%P in last week of June) increased yield with highest net return and BCR and therefore, was economically deduced best for the production of Jasminum sambac.

Zn and B Mediated Effect on Yield Attribute, Yield, and Nutrient Uptake in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medick.)

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2020-21 at the Crop Research Center of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.) to evaluate the Effect of Zn and B application. Ten treatments comprising control, RDF, Zn and B in a different combination were tested in a randomized block design with three replications. The experimental results revealed that yield attributing traits viz. number of pods plant-1, number of grain plant-1, grain yield plant-1, test weight and biological yield, grain yield, straw yield and content and uptake of N, P, K, Zn, S, and B in lentil differed significantly among different treatments. Growth parameters were significantly better in the treatment T10 (RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1). The highest grain yield was recorded in T10 RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 which were statistically at par with T8. It is concluded based on the study that the application of RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 with Zn, and B (T10) gave best results (Grain yield increased by 26.7%, 25.7%, 21%, 22.9%, 17.2% and 59.1% over T1, T3, T4, T5, T6 and T1, respectively) and proved to be beneficial for rabi lentil followed by RDF + Boron 2 kg ha-1 + Zinc 5 kg ha-1 (T9). The balanced and combined use of Zn, and B along with N, P, K and S in lentil improved the yield attribute, yield, and total uptake of nutrients along with maintaining the soil fertility.