Straw Yield Research Articles

Evaluation of New Rice Varieties under Delayed Transplanting on Yield Parameters and Nutrient Uptake in North Coastal Zone, India

A field experiment was conducted on sandy loam soil at the college farm of Agricultural College, Naira, Srikakulam to study the yield and yield attributes of old aged seedlings as influenced by different varieties in a split-plot design, comprised of three age of seedlings (30, 45 and 60 days old) assigned to main Plots and eight varieties (V1: MTU-7029, V2: BPT-5204, V3: MTU-1061, V4: MTU-1121, V5:MTU-1223, V6:MTU-1224, V7:MTU-1262 and V8:RGL-2537) were assigned to sub plots. Among the three age of seedlings for transplanting, planting of 30 days seedlings proved superior by recording higher growth parameters and yield structure, yield and economic returns compared to planting of 45 days and 60 days old seedlings. Among the varieties tested, the higher grain yield, straw yield and economic returns was noticed with MTU-1223 (V5) followed by RGL-2537 (V8) and MTU-1224 (V6). The differences in N uptake among the varieties may be attributed to genetic factors, as different rice varieties can have varying abilities to absorb and utilize nitrogen from the soil.

Evaluating the performance of traditional paddy (Oryza sativa L.) landraces under floating cultivation techniques in southern Tamil Nadu

Floating rice cultivation, a novel method, is essential for boosting crop yields and resilience amid climate change using flood-prone and water-saturated environments. This approach leverages aquatic resources such as lakes and reservoirs, enhancing agricultural productivity and ecosystem health. This study was conducted in 2023 at the Department of Agronomy, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai to assess the suitability and production potential of cultivating traditional paddy varieties viz., Chinnar and Chithiraikar under floating conditions. Various substrates including soil, coir pith, wooden chips, sugarcane trash, thermocol, leaf compost, and jute bags were levelled out over paddy seeding trays (60 × 30 cm) and placed over bamboo rafts (120 × 120 cm) which served as the float base. Various parameters viz., germination (%), leaf area index (LAI), vigour index, plant population, dry matter production (g/m2), grain yield (kg/ha) and straw yield (kg/ha) were analysed. Results revealed that better crop establishment and crop growth were highly influenced by nursery and conditions with coconut coir outperforming other substrates. However, findings indicated that thermocol substrate is more productive in realizing higher yield attributes and yield (9.83 g/plant, 9.90 g/plant, respectively) of both Chinnar and Chithiraikar landraces of rice. Thus, floating rice cultivation offers a sustainable way to enhance productivity and adaptability, with traditional paddy varieties suitable for soilless media, though further research is needed to optimize its effectiveness.

Effect of Organic Manures and Chemical Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of organic manures and chemical fertilizers on growth and yield of green gram, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum growth parameters like, plant height (51.45 cm), number of branches per plant (4.08) and yield parameters like, number of pods per plant (20.58, number of seeds per pod (8.65), test weight (38.92 g), grain yield (1106.45 kg/ha), straw yield (2583.85 kg/ha) and maximum net return (48100 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (1.58) was recorded with T9-75% Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha. The minimum growth and yield obtained with control treatment. Therefore, concluded that impact of different organic manures and chemical fertilizers on the growth and yield of the green gram. Among different T9-75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha registered the maximum production with higher net return. So, it was concluded that the treatment 75% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.25 t per ha superior among all treatments.

Co-applied biochar and drought tolerant PGPRs induced more improvement in soil quality and wheat production than their individual applications under drought conditions.

Plant growth and development can be greatly impacted by drought stress. Suitable plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) or biochar (BC) application has been shown to alleviate drought stress for plants. However, their co-application has not been extensively explored in this regard. We isolated bacterial strains from rhizospheric soils of plants from arid soils and characterized them for plant growth promoting characteristics like IAA production and phosphate solubilization as well as for drought tolerance. Three bacterial strains or so called PGPRs, identified as Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus tropicus, and Bacillus paramycoides based on their 16S rRNA, were screened for further experiments. Wheat was grown on normal, where soil moisture was maintained at 75% of water holding capacity (WHC), and induced-drought (25% WHC) stressed soil in pots. PGPRs were applied alone or in combination with a biochar derived from pyrolysis of tree wood. Drought stress substantially inhibited wheat growth. However, biochar addition under stressed conditions significantly improved the wheat growth and productivity. Briefly, it increased straw yield by 25%, 100-grain weight by 15% and grain yield by 10% compared to the control. Moreover, co-application of biochar with PGPRs B. thuringiensis, B. tropicus and B. paramycoides further enhanced straw yield by 37-41%, 100-grain weight by 30-36%, and grain yield by 22-22.57%, respectively. The co-application also enhanced soil quality by increasing plant-available phosphorus by 4-31%, microbial biomass by 33-45%, and soil K+/Na+ ratio by 41-44%. Co-application of PGPRs and biochar alleviated plant drought stress by improving nutrient availability and absorption. Acting as a nutrient reservoir, biochar worked alongside PGPRs, who solubilized nutrients from the former and promoted wheat growth. We recommend that the co-application of suitable PGPRs and biochar is a better technology to produce wheat under drought conditions than using these enhancers separately.

Effect of Various Nitrogen Doses and Plant Growth Regulators on Nutrient Uptake and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L)

A field experiment was conducted at Research Farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar, during season of 2019-20, to find out the effect of optimization of nitrogen doses for high yield potential of wheat with plant growth regulators. The experiment was laid out in randomized block and replicated thrice. The experiment ten treatment of different doses of fertilizer with plant growth regulators chlormequat chloride and tebuconazole applied at 0.2% and 0.1% respectively. Experimental revealed that application of 150% recommended doses of NPK resulted significantly higher available nitrogen (171.82 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (27.01 kg ha-1) and available potassium (192.27 kg ha-1) in soil after the harvest of wheat significantly highest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by wheat recorded with 150% RDF of NPK with chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). Significantly highest grain and straw yield recorded with 150% NPK + chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%) at par with 100% RDF as compare to other treatments harvest index was recorded 125% RDF of N and chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%) and 150% RDF of N and chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). The uptake of key nutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium followed a similar pattern, with 150% recommended doses of NPK along chlormequat chloride (0.2%) and tebuconazole (0.1%). optimal NPK application resulted in positive nutrient balance in the soil. This investigation that managing nutrient with growth regulator in wheat is an economically viable and ecologically sound approach to improve both crop production and soil health through balanced nutrition.

Effect of summer legume residue incorporation and fertilizer regimes on rice growth, yield, and nutrient uptake

In a field trial at the College Farm, NAU, Navsari (Gujarat), evaluated four main plot treatments (T1: Green gram, T2: Cowpea, T3: Dhaincha, and T4: Fallow), which were grown during the summer with three replications following a randomized block design (RCBD). Green gram and cowpea were incorporated into the soil after harvest, but dhaincha was incorporated at 50% flowering. During Kharif, each main plot was split into six smaller plots with different treatments: W1 was 100% RDF, W2 was 75% RDF, W3 was 50% RDF, W4 was 75% RDF + 25% N from FYM, W5 was 50% RDF + 50% N from FYM, and W6 was no fertilizer. The results of all 24 treatment combinations were repeated three times in a split-plot design. The analysis showed significant growth, yield attributes, grain yield, and straw yield of rice in dhaincha-incorporated plots (T3), fb greengram (T1), and cowpea (T2) plots using 100% RDF, while fallow (T4) with no fertilizer application recorded significantly lower values. SPAD meter readings of rice were higher in W4 (75% RDF + 25% N from FYM), which was at par with W1 in dhaincha-incorporated plots (75% RDF + 25% N from FYM) (W4). However, applying no fertilizer (W6) resulted in lower values. The total uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus in rice was highest when it was grown in dhaincha incorporated (T3), followed by green gram (T1), cowpea (T2) incorporated plots with the usage of 100% RDF (W1) and 75% RDF + 25% N from FYM (W4), and lower values were recorded in fallow + no fertilizer treatment (T4W6). Our study revealed that incorporating summer legumes before planting rice significantly increased plant height, tillers, grain and straw yield, and total uptake. With dhaincha, inclusion has shown a greater advantage.

Presumption of Herbicide Resistant Weeds and Yield of Boro Rice as Influenced by Pre- and Post-emergence Herbicides

In Bangladesh, weed infestation is a leading problem in rice cultivation and the sole dependency on post-emergence herbicides is ineffective. Therefore, a field experiment was carried out at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh from December 2021 to May 2022. The study was done to determine the relative effectiveness of different pre-emergence herbicides and to presume the herbicide-resistant weeds and yield of boro rice as influenced by pre-and post-emergence herbicides. Four rice varieties: BAU dhan3 (V1), BRRI dhan28 (V2), BRRI dhan81 (V3), BRRI dhan96 (V4) and six herbicide managements: Control (H1), Hand Weeding at 30 DAT (H2), Bensulfuron methyl @ 980 g ha-1 (H3), Pretilachlor @ 2 L ha-1 (H4), Carfentrazon ethyl @ 208 mL ha-1 (H5), Ethoxisulfuron @ 200 g ha-1 (H6) were used in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The most dominant weed species in the experimental plots were Echinochloa crussgalli, Scirpus mucronatus, Monochoria hastata, Enhydra fluctuans and Oxalis europaea. This study found Ethoxisulfuron (H6) and Carfentrazon ethyl (H5) were the most effective weed management treatments for weed suppression and grain yield at twice the recommended doses. In this study, the highest grain yield (5.40 t ha-1), straw yield (6.80 t ha-1) and biological yield (12.20 t ha-1) were obtained from BRRI dhan81 (V3) with hand weeding (H2) and highest harvest index (45.60%) were obtained from BAU dhan3 (V1) with Pretilachlor (H4). Therefore, this result is useful for farmers at field level cultivation of boro rice.

Evaluation of Allelopathy of Agricultural Land Associated Trees on Weed Growth and Yield Performance of Boro Rice

We conducted an experiment at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, BAU, Mymensingh to evaluate the allelopathic effect of Mangifera indica, Artocarpus heterophyllus, Albizia lebbeck and Shorea robusta on the weed growth and yield performance of boro rice. The experiment consisted of one cultivar i.e. BRRI dhan29 and five different extract’s treatments such as no leaf extracts (T1), Mangifera indica leaf extracts(T2), Artocarpus heterophyllus leaf extracts(T3), Albizia lebbeck leaf extracts (T4) and Shorea robusta leaves extract (T5) @20:200 (w/v) ratio concentration. The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design with four replications. Weed population, weed dry weight were significantly affected by different treatments. The highest weed population and dry weight for all weed species were found in no tree leaf extracts treatments (T1) and Shorea robusta leaf extracts (T2) respectively. The lowest weed population and weed dry weight were recorded in Artocarpus heterophyllus leaf extracts (T3). The highest grain yield as well as the yield contributing characters was recorded in Albizia lebbeck leaf extracts (T4). The highest reduction of grain yield was observed in T1 (no tree leaf extracts) treatment. The longest plant height, highest number of total tiller hill-1, highest number of effective tillers hill-1, number of grains panicle-1, 1000-grain weight, grain and straw yields were observed in Albizia lebbeck leaf extracts (T4) treatment and the lowest was observed in T1. Results of this study indicates that Artocarpus heterophyllus (T3) and Albizia lebbeck (T4) leaf extracts showed potentiality in yield contributing characters of Boro rice. Therefore, Artocarpus heterophyllus and Albizia lebbeck leaf extracts might be used as an alternative way for weed management and sustainable crop production.

Assessment of Different Nutrient Combination on the Performance of Maize (Zea mays L) in North Indian Plains

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2023 at the Agriculture Research Farm, Graphic Era Hill University, Uttarakhand. Surface soil (0-15 cm) of the experiment field was sandy loam in texture, low organic carbon (0.39%), medium in available nitrogen (157 kg h-1), medium in available phosphorus (15.5 kg ha-1) and medium in available potassium (112.6 kg ha-1) with neutral soil reaction (pH 7.4). The experiment consisted of eleven treatments viz., 100% NPK (T1), 100% N (T2), 100% P (T3), 100% K (T4), 100% NP (T5), 100% NK (T6), 100% PK (T7), 100% NPK + VC 5 t ha -1 (T8), 100% + Azotobactor (T9), 100% + VC 5 t ha -1 + Azotobactor (T10), Control (T11). Each treatment was replicated thrice and constituted total of 33 plots. The field experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD). The variety used for the field experiment was K-55. The results of the field experiment reported that the effect of different treatments was significant on growth and productivity of maize. Significantly higher emergence count m-2 (9 m-2) of maize was obtained with the application of 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10). Maximum plant height (102.07 cm, 155.02 cm and 225.87 cm) was observed under treatment 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10) at 30, 45 and 60 days of sowing, respectively. It also produced highest dry matter m-2 (556.56 g, 1023.20 g, and 2062.00 g, respectively at 30 DAS, 45 DAS and 60 DAS). Application of vermicompost along with Azotobacter and chemical fertilizer produced maximum number of leaves per plant (4.05, 8.87 and 14.20 at 30 DAS, 45 DAS and 60 DAS, respectively). Application of 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10) resulted in significant improvement in yield attributes and yield of maize compared to other treatments. The maximum grain yield (59.93 q ha-1) and straw yield (69.90q ha-1) was produced under 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha-1 + Azotobacter (T10). Moreover, adoption of different nutrient combinations resulted in improving the economic status of the farmer. Significantly higher B: C ratio of 1.90 was recorded for 100% NPK + VC @ 5t ha -1 + Azotobacter (T10) and it was 14.45 % higher than that for 100 % NPK (T1). Hence, it is concluded that application of 100% NPK + VC 5 t ha -1 + Azotobacter exhibited higher growth and yield along with B: C ratio.

Effects of Organic Manures and Foliar Sprays on Growth and Yield of Finger Millet

Experiments were conducted at the Centre of Excellence in Millets, Athiyandal, Thiruvannamalai, India to evaluate various organic nutrient sources with foliar application over three seasons from kharif 2015 to 2017 in Split Plot Design (SPD). Applying farmyard manure (FYM) @ 12.5 t ha-1 along with in-situ incorporation of sunhemp green manuring SGM @ 6.50 t ha-1 at 45 days after planting (DAP) resulted in higher grain and straw yields of 2,420 kg ha-1 and 3,549 kg ha-1, respectively. A foliar spray of Panchakavya at a 3% concentration increased grain and straw yields to 2,423 kg ha-1 and 3,338 kg ha-1. The B4 treatment yielded the highest gross income (₹84,724 ha-1), net income (₹55,372 ha-1), and benefit-cost ratio (2.84). Vermicompost application at 5 t ha-1 led to lower gross income. Among the foliar sprays, Panchakavya at 3% produced the highest gross income (₹84,478 ha-1), net income (₹43,534 ha-1), and benefit-cost ratio (2.36), followed by vermiwash at 3%.

Effect of Crop Establishment Method, Residue and Nutrient Management on Productivity of Rice-Wheat Cropping System at Rupandehi, Bhairahawa, Nepal

The puddling operation and multiple tillage operations done in traditional rice-wheat system have negative impact on soil resulting into low productivity of rice - wheat system. A field experiment was conducted to find the alternate practices for enhancing the productivity of rice-wheat system at National Wheat Research Program, Bhairahawa during 2018/19. Three crop establishment methods: surface seeded wheat (SSW) followed by (fb) unpuddled transplanted rice (U-TPR), zero tilled wheat (ZTW) fb zero tilled direct seeded rice (ZT-DSR) and conventionally tilled wheat (CTW) fb puddled transplanted rice (PTR) were tested in two levels of residue management: residue removed (R0) and residue retention (R50). Three levels of nutrient management: recommended dose of NPK (F100), 25% higher dose of NPK (F125) and farmer’s practice (FP) were assigned in wheat. Strip-split plot design with 3 replications was used in wheat while strip-plot design with 9 replications was used in rice. Crop establishment methods (CSM) were assigned in vertical strips; residue management in horizontal blocks and nutrient management were assigned in subplots. The number of tillers at maximum tillering stage, maximum leaf area index, effective tiller per square meter and number of grains per spike of wheat were significantly affected by CSM, where ZTW had shown better results (413.7 tillers, 2.12 LAI, 224.1 effective tiller per square meter and 34.27 grains per spike) than SSW and CTW but the CSM had no significant effect on grain yield of both rice and wheat crop. R0 had produced significantly higher straw yield than R50 of both rice and wheat, whereas, R50 had produced significantly higher harvest index than R0 in rice. The application of 25% more nutrients than the recommended dose resulted in the significantly better growth, yield attributes, and yield of wheat. The ZTW fb ZT-DSR had produced significantly higher system yield than SSW fb U-TPR where, CTW fb PTR was statistically at par with both systems. The recommended dose of nutrients (F100) and 25% higher than F100 (F125) had produced significantly higher system yield than farmer’s practice (FP) dose. Research results revealed that ZTW fb ZT-DSR system can be suggested instead of traditional CTW fb PTR system without significant yield differences.

Trait Association Studies to Determine Selection Indices in F5 Segregating Populations of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The experiment consisted of 38 promising F5 breeding lines developed and evaluated for correlation coefficient, path coefficient and selection indices studies with four check varieties viz., NVSR-2435, Sardar, Lalkada Gold and GR-18 in RBD with three replications during kharif-2023 at RRRS, Vyara, Gujarat. Genotypic correlation analysis revealed that grain yield per plant appeared to be positively and significantly correlated with productive tillers per plant, plant height, panicle length, straw yield per plant and 100 grain weight, which suggested that these characters can be improved simultaneously towards higher grain yield per plant by direct selection. Genotypic path analysis revealed that positive and direct effects on grain yield per plant were exhibited by days to maturity, productive tillers per plant, panicle length, 100 grain weight and straw yield per plant. Among these traits, panicle length, productive tillers per plant, 100 grain weight and straw yield per plant exhibited direct effect along with highly significant and positive association with grain yield per plant. Therefore, selection for such traits may be considered as most important yield attributing characters. The negligible residual effect of 0.037 was observed in path analysis, indicates that the model explained large proportion of variance. Thirty-one selection indices were constructed in all possible combinations of grain yield per plant (X1) along with four components viz., productive tiller per plant (X2), panicle length (X3), 100 grain weight (X4) and straw yield per plant (X5) through equal weight method. Among all the selection indices, the relative efficiency (%) and expected genetic advance (GA) was noted maximum with four characters selection index (I1245) compared to grain yield per plant (I1).

Effect of Different Fertilizers and Approaches on Nutrient Use Efficiency and Economics of Aerobic Rice Under Rice-Cowpea Cropping Sequence in Ecological Conditions of Karnataka, India

At the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, a field experiment was conducted in 2015-16 and 2016-17 to examine the impact of fertigation on the yield, nutrient usage efficiency, and economics of aerobic rice in an aerobic rice–cowpea cropping sequence. In a randomized block design, hybrid rice was tested in aerobic conditions with 16 treatments that were reproduced three times. The results indicated that significantly higher grain (62.98 q ha-1) and straw (85.26 q ha-1) yield of rice was recorded in 100% STCR dose through WSF at 8 DI. Similarly higher NRn (3.50 kg q-1) and NRp (0.86 kg q-1) of grain production in 100% STCR dose with WSF at 8 DI on contrary, higher NRk of 2.27 kg q-1 was noticed in 100% STCR with WSF at 4 DI. While higher AUE-N (32.51 kg kg-1), AUE-P (65.02 kg kg-1) and AUE-K (65.02 kg kg-1) were recorded in 30% RDF with WSF at 8 DI. The higher ACRE-N (78.60 %) was recorded with 100% RDF with WSF at 8 DI and higher ACRE-P (44.40%) was recorded with 30% RDF with WSF at 8 DI. Notably higher ACRE-K (132.51%) was recorded in 30% STCR with WSF at 8 DI. However, supplement of 30% STCR dose with WSF at 8 DI obtained notably higher IUE-N (35.05 kg kg-1), IUE-P (163.27 kg kg-1) and IUE-K ( 60.11 kg kg-1). Significantly higher PFP-N, P and K (261.23, 522.46 and 522.46, respectively) were recorded in 30% RDF with WSF at 8 DI. Among all treatments, 100% RDF through CF at 4 DI found significantly higher B: C ratio (2.74) during both years of pooled data.

Effect of Different Levels of Phosphorus on Growth and Yield of Wheat cv. Shatabdi

A field experiment was carried out at the farmers field of Gazipur, Bangladesh to evaluate the effect of various level of phosphorous on the growth and yield of wheat (Shatabdi). The experiment consisted of four phosphorus levels, including a control: (i) T0 = 0 kg P ha-1 (Control), (ii) T1 = 25 kg P ha-1, (iii) T2 = 50 kg P ha-1, and (iv) T3 = 75 kg P ha-1. The experiment was conducted during from December 2021 to March 2022 in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on different growth and yield parameters like plant height, number of tillers per plant, days to flowering, days to maturity, spike length, grains per spike, grain yield, thousand grain weight, biological yield, and harvest index were collected according to plan. The different level of phosphorous showed significant effect on growth and yield of wheat. The T2 (50 kg P ha-1) treatment gave the tallest plant (85.25 cm), maximum number of tiller plant (8.05), spike length (18.20 cm), grains per spike (42.08), thousand grain weight (36.16), grain yield per plant (37.15 g), straw yield (07.46) and harvest index (50.72%). On the other hand, all the growth, yield and yield attributing characters were found lowest in control treatments. The result of the study indicated that the 50 Kg P/ha would be effective and economic for the cultivation of wheat variety cv Shatabdi.

Long-Term Manuring and Fertilization Influence on Soil Properties and Wheat Productivity in Semi-Arid Regions

Information on the long-term effects of the addition of organics and fertilizers to wheat under the pearl millet–wheat cropping system with semi-arid conditions in north-western India is still lacking. The present research was conducted in an ongoing field experiment initiated during Rabi 1995 at the Research Farm of Chaudhary Charan Singh at Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. After 25 years, the impacts of nutrient management practices on soil fertility and wheat productivity were evaluated. The experiment comprised a total of eight treatment combinations viz. half and full doses of recommended fertilizers (N and P), organic manures (FYM: farmyard manure, POM: poultry manure, and PRM: press mud) alone and in combination with NP fertilizers. The conjoint application of organic manure and chemical fertilizers resulted in a positive influx of nutrients via increasing total organic carbon (TOC), available N, P, K, and S, which ranged from 0.46 to 1.42%, 122.70 to 194.70, 15.66 to 74.92, 340.5 to 761.2, and 15.26 to 54.63 kg ha−1 in surface soil (0–15 cm), respectively. Carbon fractions and crop yield were significantly improved by adopting integrated nutrient management (INM). The TOC showed a positive and significant correlation with C fractions (r > 0.92) and with soil-available N, P, K, and S (r > 0.77) content. The data also revealed a strong relationship between TOC and soil-available (0–15 cm) nutrients i.e., available N (R2= 0.769), available P (R2 = 0.881), available K (R2 = 0.758), and available S (R2 = 0.914), respectively. Thus, practices that increased TOC were also beneficial in enhancing the availability of the nutrients in the soil. A positive and highly significant correlation was also found among wheat yield, nutrient (NPKS) content, and uptake. A polynomial relationship between grain yield and grain N (R2 = 0.962), P (R2 = 0.946), and K (R2 = 0.967) content, and between straw yield and straw N (R2 = 0.830), P (R2 = 0.541) and K (R2 = 0.976) content was obtained. Integrated use of PRM7.5 followed by FYM15 and POM5 coupled with NP fertilizers proved best, which could be beneficial for obtaining nutritious and highest wheat yield (grain: 6.01 t ha−1 and straw: 7.70 t ha−1) coupled with improved fertility within a sustained manner under the pearl millet–wheat sequence in prevailing semi-arid conditions of the North Indian state of Haryana.

Budgeting of Primary Nutrients in Soil under Rice-cowpea Cropping Sequences in Alfisols

A field experiment was undertaken at University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India to study the primary nutrients budgeting in rice-cowpea cropping system in an alfisols. Hybrid rice was tested under aerobic condition during Kharif 2015-16 and 2016-17 with 16 treatments replicated thrice in randomized block design. Notably maximum grain (62.98 q ha-1) and straw (85.26 q ha-1) yield of rice was registered in treatment, which received 100% STCR dose through WSF at 8 DI. Rice has exhibited a notably higher total uptake of N, P, and K in the treatment with 100% STCR dose through WSF at 8 DI (220.68, 44.97, and 137.41 kg N, P, and K ha-1, respectively). In fertigation with 100% RDF through WSF at 8 DI, a significantly greater seed yield (12.94 q ha-1) and haulm yield (26.17 q ha-1) of cowpea were observed. At 4 DI, 100% RDF through WSF showed a closely higher total uptake of N, P, and K by cowpea (68.94, 14.67, and 61.39 kg N, P, and K ha-1, respectively). The maximum net positive balance (148.42 kg N ha-1) was noticed in 100% RDF applied through WSF at 8 DI and minimum net positive balance 53.86 kg N ha-1 was recorded in 100% RDF-CF. During 2016-17, after the completion of second year residual crop cowpea, the maximum net positive balance (148.42 kg N ha-1) was noticed in 100% RDF applied through WSF at 8 DI and minimum net positive balance 53.86 kg N ha-1 was recorded in 100% RDF-CF. The maximum net positive balance (38.27 kg P2O5ha-1) was recorded in 100% STCR dose -WSF 8 DI and minimum net negative balance (15.70 kg P2O5 ha-1) was recorded in 100% RDF-CF. The maximum net positive balance of potassium (98.27 kg K2O ha-1) was recorded in 100% RDF-WSF 4 DI and minimum net positive balance (24.61 kg K2O ha-1) was recorded in 100% RDF-CF 8 DI treatment.

Productivity and Profitability of kharif Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Seedling Age and Nitrogen Management

Aim: The aim of the experiment is to know the effect of seedling age and nitrogen management on growth, yield attributes, yield and economics of kharif rice. Study Design: The experiment was laid out in split-plot design. Place and Duration of Study: Research Farm of Agricultural Research Station, Brinjhagiri, Chhatabar of Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar (Odisha), during kharif season of 2023. Methodology: Three seedling ages viz. S1: 3 weeks (21 days), S2: 4 weeks (28 days) and S3: 5 weeks (35 days) as main plot treatment and four nitrogen management strategies i.e. N1: 100% N through urea, N2: 50% N through urea + 50% N through neem cake, N3: 50% N through urea + 50% N through FYM and N4: 50% N through FYM + 50% N through neem cake as sub-plot treatments replicated thrice. The net plot size was 4m × 3m. Results: S2 resulted highest grain yield (4.74t ha-1) and straw yield (7.18t ha-1). N1 produced highest grain yield (4.54t ha-1) and straw yield (6.96t ha-1). Maximum net return (Rs.60367) and return per rupee investment (1.98) received from 4 weeks old seedling with 100% N through urea application. Conclusion: Transplantation of 4 weeks old seedling (28 days) and 50% N through urea + 50% N through neem cake can be recommended to achieve higher yield. Maximum net return (Rs.60367), gross return (Rs.121687) and return per rupee investment (1.98) received from 4 weeks old seedling with 100% N through urea application.

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Sources of Nitrogen on Growth, Yield, Quality and Soil Properties of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Background: The concept of combined use of both organic and inorganic fertilizer should be followed to prevent severe health hazards and to protect the environment. The combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers is an effective way to maintain nutrient supply, gives organic carbon to soil microbes and mobilizes soil-bound nutrients on decomposition through the release of organic acid. Combined use refers to combining all available nutrient sources, such as organic and inorganic sources with components in a prudent manner to create an environment that is both environmentally sound and economically ideal for farming. Methods: The experiment was conducted at the research farm of the School of Agriculture, Department of Agronomy, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara (Punjab) during rabi season in the year 2021-2022. The objective of the study was to evaluate the "Effect of organic and inorganic source of nitrogen on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)". Data recorded on different aspects of crop, viz., growth, yield attributes, yield, quality as well as soil chemical properties were recorded and subjected to statistical analysis. Result: Among various treatments 25% RDN with vermicompost + 75% RDN from inorganic fertilizers showed a significant impact on the growth and yield parameters of wheat crop. Significantly higher growth parameters viz., plant height, number of tillers m-2, dry matter and relative growth rate were observed in T12 (25% RDN with vermicompost + 75% RDN from inorganic fertilizers) of crop. It was also showed higher significant impact on yield attributes i.e., number of effective tillers-2, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, quality parameters as well as soil parameter like available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in T12 (25% RDN with vermicompost + 75% RDN from inorganic fertilizers).

Investigating Different Planting Geometry and Nutrient Management to Enhance Teff Productivity in Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

A field experiment was conducted at Zonal Agricultural Research Station (ZARS), Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka on red sandy loam soil to study the “Investigating different planting geometry and nutrient management to enhance teff productivity”. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design, consisting two factors viz., Factor 1: Two planting geometry (S1: 30 cm × 10 cm and S2: 45 cm × 10 cm) and Factor 2: Five Nutrient management (N1: 50 % RDF, N2: 75 % RDF, N3: 100 % RDF, N4: 125 % RDF and N5: Absolute control (6 t FYM ha-1 commonly applied to all except control treatments) and replicated thrice. The uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium was higher under 30 cm × 10 cm spacing (5.74, 1.04 and 3.29 kg ha-1, respectively) and among nutrient levels, application of 125 per cent RDF resulted in statistically higher uptake nitrogen (7.35 kg ha-1), phosphorous (1.33 kg ha-1) and potassium (4.28 kg ha-1). Significantly higher (12.58 %) grain protein content was obtained with application of 125% RDF. Maintaining 30 cm × 10 cm spacing recorded significantly higher grain (2.37 q ha-1) and straw yield (3.65 q ha-1). Application of 125 % RDF resulted in significantly higher straw yield, however significantly higher grain yield (2.73 q ha-1) was obtained under 100% RDF. Application of 100% RDF along with narrow spacing yielding substantially higher gross returns (₹90,776 ha-1), net returns (₹60,021 ha-1), and a commendable B:C ratio of 2.77.

Nano-sized ZnO enhances photosynthetic parameters, yield and Zn content in rice (Oryza sativa)

A pot culture experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) season of 2021 at ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad, Telangana to study the influence of the foliar application of various Zn sources such as nano ZnO, bulk ZnO, and ZnSO4 on rice crop. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with the following treatments, containing 3 concentrations of bulk ZnO (500 mg/litre, 1000 mg/litre, and 1500 mg/ litre), 3 concentrations of nano ZnO (50 mg/litre, 100 mg/ litre, and 150 mg/litre), 0.5% ZnSO4 and control with 3 replications. The findings revealed that ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) positively impacted rice grain yield, dry matter accumulation, and Zn content. Compared to the control (no zinc), ZnO NPs (150 mg/litre) and standard ZnSO4 treatments exhibited the highest plant height (83.3 cm and 73.7 cm, respectively), grain yield (5.97 g/pot and 6.03 g/pot), and straw yield (7.82 g/pot and 7.94 g/pot). The increased photosynthetic substances and higher dry matter accumulation throughout the rice growth stage contributed to the enhanced grain yield. Furthermore, supplementing Zn via nano ZnO (150 mg/litre) and 0.5% ZnSO4 resulted in significant Zn enrichment: 33,35; 77,87 and 21, 28% in straw, grain and soil, respectively over control plants. This study effectively demonstrates that ZnO nanoparticles have the potential to serve as high-performance fertilizers, benefiting both rice yield and quality.