bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interaction effect of sulphur and zinc in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) and their availability in Tonk district of Rajasthan
Authors: Y. P. SINGH  , J. S. MANN
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) season 2001 and 2002 at research farm of Banasthali (Rajasthan), to evaluate the interaction effect of four levels each of sulphur (0, 20, 40 and 60 kglha) and zinc (0, 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 kglha) on groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). From the groundnut-growing fields of Tonk district, 125 surface (0-1 5 cm) soil samples were collected randomly for estimating availabe of S and Zn. Total S and Zn contents in the soil varied from 142.0 to 232.0 kglha and 4.0 to 26.0 mglkg with mean values of 170.2 kglha and 21.3 mglkg respectively. The availability of 0.15 per cent CaC0,-extractable S and DTPA-extractable Zn was 6.1- 17.8 kglha and 0.31 -0.81 mglkg respectively. Out of the soils studied, 59 per cent were found deficient in S and 31 per cent in Zn. Application of 40 kg Slha and 5 kg Znlha significantly increased the pod yield of groundnut. The positive and significant interaction between S and Zn resulted in highest pod yield of groundnut (2,251 kg/ ha) at 40 kg S and 5 kg Znlha. Maximum benefit: cost ratio was recorded with the application of 40 kg S and 2.5 kg Znlha. The use effeciency of S and Zn decreased with increase in the level of S and Zn, and maximum use ef- ficiency was recorded at lower levels of S and Zn application.
Effect of organic and inorganic sources of nitrogen with different irrigation schedules on growth and yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Authors: V. SUMATHI  , D. S. KOTESWARA RAO
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2001 and 2002 to study the combined effect of organic and inor- ganic sources of nitrogen (N) with different irrigation schedules on growth and yield of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). There were three irrigation schedules (IW:CPE ratios 0.6, 0.8 and 1 .O) and five N-management prac- tices (the control, recommended dose of N through fertilizer, substitution of 25, 50 and 100 per cent recom- mended dose of N through FYM). Irrigation schedule at irrigation water (IW): cumulative pan evaporation (CPE) ratio 1.0 significantly improved the growth, yield, N uptake and net returns of sunflower. The supply of entire dose of N through fertilizer gave significantly higher values of all the parameters, which were on a par with those un- der 75 per cent N through fertilizer + 25 per cent N through FYM.The interaction of IW:CPE ratio 1.0 in combina- tion with supply of entire dose of N through fertilizer resulted in better growth and yield.
Production of weed-free mother bulb of onion (Allium cepa) through integration of herbicides and weeding
Authors: NlSHA CHOPRA  , N.K. CHOPRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during winter season of 2004 and 2005 to find out the appropriate and economic weed-management practice for production of weed-free mother bulb of onion (Allium cepa L.) re- quired subsequently for seed production. There was reduction in the bulb yield (64.8%) and bulb diameter (24.8%) due to uncontrolled weed growth in the weedy check. Pre-emergence application of oxyfluorfen inte- grated with one hand-weeding at 35 days after transplanting (DAT) was significantly superior to pendimethalin, fluchloralin and alachlor when applied alone and also when supplemented with one hand-weeding at 35 DAT. All the weed-control treatments significantly reduced the weed density and dry weight of weeds, and in turn in- creased the bulb yield compared with the weedy check. significantly lower bulb yield was recorded with alachlor (1.5 kglha) compared with pendimethalin, fluchloralin and oxyfluorfen at higher doses due to its inability to con- trol broad-leaf weeds, which had the maximum density in the experimental field. Maximum additional monetary returns (Rs 42,990 and 36,850 ha) and net monetary returns (Rs 37,350 and 31,7501ha) were recorded by oxyflurofen 0.15 kglha integrated with one hand-weeding at 35 DAT and oxyfluorfen 0.30 kglha, respectively.
Comparative efficacy of sprinkler and surface methods of irrigation in cumin (Cuminum cyminum) under arid western Rajasthan conditions
Authors: R.P. JANGIR  B.L. JAT  , M.S. RATHORE
Published: December 2023

A field study was undertaken during winter seasons of 2002-03 and 2003-04 at Mandor-Jodhpur to compare the efficacy of sprinkler method of irrigation with conventional check-basin method and to work out an appropri- ate irrigation schedule and the operating time for sprinklers. The pooled results revealed that application of five irrigations through sprinklers operated for 3 hr produced seed yield (41 1 kg/ha) on a par with that of recom- mended irrigation schedule applied through conventional irrigation method, but it saved water up to 41 per cent with higher WUE (0.260 kg seed/m3) and net returns (Rs 16,558Iha). Further increase in irrigation frequency (six irrigations) did not cause significant impact on cumin productivity and net returns.
Influence of irrigation regime and nitrogen management on productivity, nitrogen uptake and water use by rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Y. RAMAKRISHNA  , SUBEDAR SINGH  , S.S. PARIHAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on deep sandy clay-loam soil (Typic Haplustepts) at New Delhi, during 2002 and 2003 to investigate the effect of irrigation regimes, viz. continuous submergence, 1-day drainage, and 3-day drainage, and integrated nutrient management, viz. the control, 75% N of recommended fertilizer dose (RFD), 100% N of RFD, 150% of RFD, 75% N of RFD out of which 25% N substituted by farmyard manure (FYM), 100% N of RFD out of which 25% N substituted by FYM, 150% N of RFD of which 25% substituted by FYM and 75% N of RFD + biofertilizer, on the productivity of rice (cv. 'Pusa Sugandh 3'). Continuous water submergence increased the maximum plant height, number of tillers, leaf-area index (LAI), dry-matter accumulation, number of panicles, grainslpanicle, panicle length, 1,000-grain weight, and the grain and straw yields, which were statistically superior to 3-day drainage but on a par with those of 1 -day drainage. Continuous water submergence resulted in 9.6- 17.4% higher grain yield than 3-day drainage and 2.7-4.6% higher than I-day drainage. Irrigation and water re- quirement of rice were higher with continuous submergence, whereas irrigation, use efficiency and field water-use efficiency were higher with 3-day drainage. Among the nitrogen treatments, application of 150% N of RFD (25% substituted by FYM) induced the highest growth and yield attributes over other treatments and outyielded 75% N of RFD by giving 21.7%, 75% N of RFD (25% substituted by FYM) by 17.1%, and 75% N of RFD + biofertilizer by 14.1% and 40.4% more grain yield than the control in the first year and 19.8%, 19.9% 12.7% and 42.0% in record year. Highest N uptake was recorded with 150% of N of RFD (25% N substituted by FYM) in biomass. Agronomic- nitrogen efficiency was maximum with I-day drainage and 100 kg Nlha applied through fertilizer. Irrigation-use effi- ciency and field water-use efficiency were higher with 150%fl of RFD (25% N of RFD substituted by FYM). It was concluded that under less availability of water, irrigation may be applied on the basis of 1 -day drainage with 150% N of RFD (25% substituted by FYM).
Nitrogen management in baby corn (Zea mays)
Authors: ANITA BINDHANI  , K.C. BARIK  , L.M. GARNAYAK  , P.K. MAHAPATRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2002 and 2003 at Bhubaneshwar, Orissa to study the effect of nitrogen levels (40, 80 and 120 kg Nlha) and timing of nitrogen application [M basal + '/2 at 25 days af- ter sowing (DAS), lI3 + Y3 at 25 DAS M basal + '/4 at 25 days + '/4 at pre-tasselling (40 DAS) and ' 1, basal + ' 1, basal at 25 DAS + 113 at pre-tasselling] along with no-nitrogen (control) on productivity and nitrogen-use efficiency of baby corn (Zea mays L.). Growth, yield attributes, baby corn yield, nitrogen content and uptake, protein content and yield, net return and benefit : cost ratio increased significantly up to 120 kg Nlha. The differences between 80 and 40 kg Nlha were also significant. Nitrogen application in 3 equal splits as ' 1, basal + 11, at 25 DAS + 'I3 at pre- tasselling (40 DAS) resulted in significantly higher growth, yield attributes, marketable baby corn yield, green fod- der yield with lowest discarded baby corn, maximizing net return, benefit : cost ratio, nitrogen content, uptake, pro- tein content and yield than other schedules of N application. The apparent N recovery was the highest at 120 kg NI ha, whereas physiological and agronomic use efficiency progressively decreased with increasing nitrogen levels. Nitrogen applied in 3 equal splits resulted in the highest N recovery and agronomic use efficiency, while physi- ological efficiency of N was maximum when N was applied in 2 splits.
Productivity and P-use efficiency of clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) as influenced by bio-regulators and phosphorus
Authors: N.S. SOLANKI  , M.P. SAHU
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Bikaner during 1999 and 2000 on sandy soil to study the effect of bio- regulators (thiourea and dimethylsulphoxide) and phosphorus on productivity and P-use efficiency of clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.]. The study revealed that application of thiourea 5 kgtha in the soil (split), thio- urea 5 kgtha + dimethylsulphoxide 2 kgtha in the soil (split), foliar spray of 500 ppm thiourea and foliar spray of 500 ppm thiourea + 100 ppm dimethylsulphoxide proved effective in improving the growth and yield-attributing param- eters over the control. The maximum seed yield of 1.988 tonnestha was obtained with thiourea 5 kgtha ++ dimethylsulphoxide 2 kgtha in the soil (split) along with 17.2 kg Ptha, which was on a par with yield obtained with application of 5 kg thiouredha in soil (spilt) and 8.6 kg Ptha, and foliar spray of 500 ppmtha thiourea and 8.6 kg P/ ha. Growth indices, viz. leaf-area index (LAI) and crop-growth rate (CGR) also improved with bio-regulators and phosphorus application. Application of phosphorus up to 17.2 kg Ptha significantly improved the LA1 and CGR at 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS), number of nodulestplant, podstplant and pod length as well as P-use effi- ciency. The gum content increased significantly due to phosphorus application up to 8.6 kg Ptha. The maximum P recovery of 47.4 kglha was obtained with the application of 8.6 kg Ptha followed by 17.2 kgtha (26.4 kgtha). The highest P uptake by seed (10.72 kgtha) was obtained with 5 kg thiouredha + dimethylsulphoxide 2 kgtha in the soil (split). Soil and foliar applications of thiourea and dimethylsulphoxide recorded higher agronomic as well as physiological efficiency of the applied phosphorus.
Effect of in-situ moisture-conservation practices on productivity of rainfed Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)
Authors: P.L. REGAR  , S.S. RAO  , N.L. JOSH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Pali-Marwar, Rajasthan, during winter season (rabo of 1997-98 to 2001- 02 to find out the effect of field bunding and deep tillage during preceding rainy (kharif) season and straw mulch on Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson] productivity. Field bunding significantly increased mean mustard seed yield by 14.4% and biological yield by 15.3% over no bunding because of increased availability of soil moisture. Water-use efficiency also increased by 9.7 kglha-mm. Deep tillage during monsoon significantly in- creased the seed yield by 45.5 and 11 .I% over pre-monsoon deep tillage in 1999-00 and 2001-02. Straw mulch- ing at 5 tonneslha significantly increased mean seed yield by 17.7% over no mulch, with water-use efficiency of 8.3 kglha-mm.
Effect of sowing date and moisture-conservation practice on growth and yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) varieties
Authors: U.D. AWASTHI  , R.B. SINGH  , S.D. DUBEY
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the winter (rab~) season of 2001-02 and 2003-04 at Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of sowing dates (15 and 30 October) and moisture-conservation practices (control, 1 weeding and hoeing, grass mulch and paddy straw mulch) on growth and yield of 2 varieties of ('Vaibhav' and 'Urwashi') of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. 8 Cosson] under rainfed conditions. Sowing of variety 'Vaibhav' on 15 October achieved higher seed yield and net monetary return compared to sowing on 30 October and variety 'Urwashi'. Moisture-conservation practices increased the seed yield, yield attributes and net monetary return over the control. Among moisture-conservation practices, paddy straw mulch was found most effective in re- ducing the weed count and enhancing yield and yield attributes markedly. From economic point of view, paddy straw mulch resulted in the highest net monetary returns of Rs 14,799Jha with a benefit: cost ratio of 2.48.
Effect of sources and levels of sulphur on yield, quality and nutrient uptake by linseed (Linum usitatissimum)
Authors: SANDEEP SINGH  , WINAY SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2001-02 and 2002-03 at Bichpuri, Agra, to assess the effect of sources and levels of sulphur on productivity, sulphur content and uptake of nutrients (NPS) by linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). Each successive increase in the level of sulphur up to 60 kglha significantly increased seed yield, oil yield and content of S as well as total uptake of N, P and S by the crop. Among sources of sulphur, gyp- sum proved significantly superior to other sources for seed and oil yields and uptake of nutrients. Linseed fertilized with 60 kg Slha through gypsum was found most profitable. Sulphur-use efficiency was the highest when lowest level of S was applied.
Growth, quality and economics of plant and ratoon sugarcane (Saccharurn spp. hybrid complex) as influenced by doses and sources of sulphur
Authors: S.K. SHUKLA  , MENHl LAL
Published: December 2023

A field-experiment was conducted during 2001-02 and 2002-03 at Lucknow with 3 S doses (40, 60 and 80 kg Slha) and 3 sources (elemental S, gypsum and single superphosphate) for improving yield and quality of sugar- cane. Significant improvement in cane diameter (2.51 cm) and individual cane weight (1,100 g) was observed at 60 kg Slha. This registered an increase of 9.87% in cane yield and 8.77% in commercial cane sugar over 40 kg S/ ha. Pol % in juice increased significantly when S dose increased from 40 to 60 kglha. Application of elemental sul- phur resulted in significantly higher cane yield (83.5 Vha) as well as commercial cane sugar (CCS 9.96 Vha) over other sources. In plant-ratoon system, by taking 1 plant and 1 ratoon crop in account, maximum net return ( R s 111,032/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (3.18) were obtained at 80 kg Slha.
Integrated weed management in zero-till direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa) - wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: J.S. MISHRA  , V.P. SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2004-05 and 2005-06 on clay-loam soil at Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh to find out the effect of integrated weed-management practices on weeds and yield of zero-till direct- seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). Different methods of crop establishment were evaluated for getting higher produc- tivity and profitability of irrigated rice-wheat cropping system. For rice there were four methods, viz. direct seeding by zero-till drill, direct drilling in friable soil by seed drill, direct seeding of sprouted seeds in puddled soil, and transplanting; and for the succeeding wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) there were two methods, viz. sowing with zero-till drill and conventional sowing. Echinochloa colona and Commelina spp. were the major weeds in zero-till, direct-seeded rice, which reduced the grain yield by 27.4%. Pre-emergence application of pretilachlor at 750 glha or pendimethalin at 1.0 kglha each, followed by one hand-weeding at 30 days after sow- ing was on a par with hand-weeding twice, giving significantly higher grain yield (5.20 and 3.50 tlha) compared with the weedy check (3.98 and 2.25 tlha). Zero-till, direct-seeded rice with proper weed management resulted in significantly higher yield than transplanted rice. In the succeeding wheat crop, population of dominant weeds, viz. Chenopodium album and Medicago hispida, was found to be reduced when wheat was grown after zero-till, direct-seeded rice compared with other methods of rice establishment. The wheat sown after zero-till, direct- seeded rice yielded significantly higher (3.76 and 3.61 tlha) than when sown after other methods of rice estab- lishment. Zero tillage in direct-seeded rice-wheat system reduced the weed problem and increased the system productivity as well as profitability.
Effect of soil solarization and farmyard manure application on weed control and productivity of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) - bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) sequence
Authors: M.N. THIMMEGOWDA  , H.V. NANJAPPA  , B.K. RAMACHANDRAPPA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted for 2 consecutive years (2003 and 2004) at Bangalore to study the effect of soil solarization with rnoisture regimes, time of farmyard manure (FYM) application and duration of solarization on weed dynamics and yield of sunflower - bell pepper crop sequence. Soil solarization for 60 days with irrigation up to field capacity (FC) and FYM application before solarization proved superior for weed control and yield of this se- quence. It was followed by 45 days solarization, FYM application after solarization with irrigation up to FC and irri- gation up to 50% FC. Non-solarized weedy check recorded significantly lower yield and higher weed dominance compared with all other treatments.
Yield, quality and economics of FCV tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) in relation to preceding crops and nitrogen fertilization in Vertisols
Authors: S. KASTURI KRISHNA  , S.V. KRISHNA REDDY  , K. DEO SINGH  , R. SUBBA RAO  , P. HARISHU KUMAR  , V. KRISHNAMURTHY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2001 -02 and 2002-03 at Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh with six treatments during rainy (kharif) season, viz. blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper], rice (Oryza sativa L.), soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.], maize (Zea mays L.), green-leaf manuring with pillipesara [Vigna trilobata (L.) Verdc.] and fallow; and three N levels of 30, 45 and 60 kg Nlha, applied to FCV tobacco in winter (rabi) season. Short-duration maize and rice could successfully be grown before rabi tobacco, taking advantage of south-west monsoon rains. Among the cropping systems, green-leaf manuring-tobacco recorded significantly higher cured leaf (1.92 tlha), bright leaf (0.88 tlha) and grade index (1.39) of tobacco followed by fallow - tobacco, whereas lowest values of these yields were recorded in soybean-tobacco. Application of 60 kg Nlha offered significantly higher cured-leaf yield and grade index, and was comparable with that of 45 kg Nlha in respect of bright-leaf yield. Interaction effects of cropping systems and N levels revealed that FCV tobacco preceded by maize, blackgram, rice and soybean re- sponded up to 45 kg Nlha, whereas tobacco preceded by green leaf manuring and fallow responded up to 60 kg Nlha in the production of bright leaf. Maize - tobacco system recorded higher tobacco leaf-equivalent yield (2.25 tl ha). The chemical quality parameters of leaf like reducing sugars, nicotine and chlorides were within the accept- able range. Maize - tobacco and green leaf manuring - tobacco systems recorded higher net returns, whereas benefit : cost ratio was higher with green leaf manuring-tobacco and fallow-tobacco. Minimum broomrape (Orobanche cernua Loefl] infestation of 1.75% was recorded in FCV tobacco succeeding maize. It was concluded that maize - tobacoo accrued higher monetary returns, followed by green leaf manuring-tobacco system compared with fallow - tobacco.
Nitrogen-release pattern from organic sources of different C : N ratios and lignin content, and their contribution to irrigated rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: K. SUREKHA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on a clayey vertisol (Typic Pellustert) for 3 years (2001 -02 to 2003-04) dur- ing wet and dry seasons at Hyderabad to study the N-release pattern from three organic sources of different C:N ratios and lignin content, and their effect on rice (Oryza sativa L.) productivity. The three organic sources used were: paddy straw with C:N ratio 61.5 and lignin content 6.3%; greengram (Phaseolus aureus) with C:N ratio 19.5 and lignin content 8.7%; dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) with C:N ratio 13.1 and lignin content 5.8%. These were used in different combinations along with inorganic fertilizers. The cumulative N released during the first month after planting was high in the plots receiving green-manure alone (106-319 mg Nlkg soil) and during the second month it was high in the plots receiving green-manure + paddy straw (301-414 mg Nlkg soil). Greengram with its medium C:N ratio as well as lignin content released N slowly and gradually for a longer period. Leaving a gap of 2 weeks after incorporation of green-manure like dhaincha resulted in higher release and loss of N in those 2 weeks, because of its succulence (low lignin) and very narrow C:N ratio. The grain yield was significantly higher in the treatments that received organics in place of inorganic fertilizers alone due to increase in the pro- ductive tillers (panicles) in the second and third year by 7-23%. The residual effect of organics added in the wet seson significantly increased grain yield in the second and third years in all the treatments that received organ- ics compared with inorganic fertilizers alone. Thus, organics with moderate C:N ratio and lignin content released N slowly and gradually for longer periods and led to higher productivity in rice-rice system.
Performance of rice (Oryza planted on raised-bed under different sativa) soil-moisture tensions
Authors: B.U. CHOUDHURY  , ANlL KUMAR SlNGH
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted at New Delhi during rainy season of 2001 and'2002 on aerobic rice (Oryza sa- tiva L.) cultivated on raised-beds under different soil-moisture regimes (field capacity, 20 and 40 kPa tensions). The yield was considerably less on raised-beds, varying from 12-24% at field capacity to 40-46% in beds irrigated at 40 kPa soil-water tension compared with the direct-seeded flat land at 20 cm row spacing. Nitrogen in the form of nitrate was dominant in raised-beds (>23%) compared with ammonical form in flat land, and the proportion of ni- trate also increased in beds (3-10%) with the increase in soil-moisture stress. Cultivar 'Pusa 44' on raised-beds did not withstand soil-moisture stress, which was reflected in further rapid reduction in its yield by 23-40% when mois- ture-stress was built-up at 40 kPa tension compared with that at field capacity. The nitrogen content in grain and its uptake also decreased significantly by more than 21 and 42% with the imposition of moisture stress from field ca- pacity to 40 kPa tension. It is necessary to develop special aerobic lowland rice cultivar which can compensate the space left for furrows by producing more number of productive tillers, and can withstand soil-moisture stresses at varying degrees by profuse root growth and proliferation.
Yield and quality of multi-cut forage sorghum (Sorghum sudanense) as influenced b y integrated nitrogen management
Authors: P.C. YADAV  , A.C. SADHU  , P.K. SWARNKAR
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted at Anand during rainy (kharif) season of 2004 and 2005 to study the effect of in- tegrated N management on yield and quality of multi-cut forage sorghum (Sorghum sudanense L.). Application of 75 kg N through urea + 25 kg Nlha through farmyard manure (FYM) recorded significantly higher green-forage, dry-matter and crude-protein yields than other treatments, except application of 75 kg N through urea + 25 kg Nlha through castor cake. The increase was 11 .I - 18.6% in dry-matter yield and 19.4 - 20.0% in crude-protein yield over application of 100 kg Nlha through urea. Application of 50 kg N through FYM + 50 kg Nlha through castor cake was significantly inferior in forage production and was poor in quality as evident from low crude-protein yield and higher neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content. The maximum green-forage, dry-matter and crude-protein yields of forage sorghum were recorded under Azotobacter + Azospirillum inoculation compared with their individual in- oculation or no inoculation of biofertilizer, but the effect on green-forage yield was non-significant.. The maximum NDF content was recorded under no biofertilizer treatment, which was significantly higker than other treatments except Azospirillum inoculation. The application of 75 kg N through urea + 25 kg Nlha through castor cake along with Azospirillum inoculation was found superior in forage quality and recorded maximum crude-protein yield.
Diversification of rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping systems for higher productivity, resource-use efficiency and economics
Authors: D.K. BASTIA  , L.M. GARNAYAK  , T. BARlK
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Bhubaneshwar under irrigated medium land condition from 2002 to 2005 to evaluate the production potential, resource-use efficiency and economics of 10 cropping systems based on rice (Oryza sativa L.). Rice-groundnut-greengram system resulted in maximum number of effective tillers in rice (362/m2), longest panicles (23.0 cm) and maximum number of grainslpanicle (1 12). However, system pro- ductivity of rice-maize-cowpea was the maximum (15.98 tiha) which was on a par with that of rice-maize- greengram (15.30 tiha). Rice-sunflower-greengram registered the minimum rice equivalent yield (REY) of 11.66 t/ha among the three-crop sequences and rice-toria-fallow (8.36 tiha) among the two-crop sequences. Sustain- able yield index (0.85), production efficiency (50.73 kg REYIhalday), employment generation (550 man days/ha) and net returns (Rs 40,415lha) were maximum in rice-maize-cowpea followed by rice-maize-greengram system. Inclusion of two legumes improved the sustainability and that of groundnut increased the land-use efficiency of the systems. Returns per Re invested were the highest for rice-fieldpea-sesame system (Rs 1.94), which were on a par with that of rice-maize-cowpea and rice-maize-greengram systems (Rs 1.85 and 1.83 respectively). Crop- ping systems having maize as a component crop expressed higher production efficiency (Rs 124 to 128/ha/day), water-use efficiency (Rs 203 to 21 3/ha-cm) and energy intensiveness (1 1.23 to 12.56 MJ/Re) in economic terms. Rice-maize-cowpea was the most productive, sustainable, resource-use efficient and remunerative cropping system.
Productivity, quality and economics of irrigated FCV tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) in relation to spacing, dose and time of nitrogen application
Authors: S.V. KRISHNA REDDV  , S. KASTURI KRISHNA  , J.A.V. PRASAD RAO
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during post-rainy season of 2000-01, 2001 -02 and 2002-03 at Jeelugumilli to find out optimum spacing, dose and time of N application to flue-cured virginia (FCV) tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L) in irrigated Alfisols (Northern Light Soils) of Andhra Pradesh. Green leaf yield, cured leaf yield and grade index were significantly higher at a spacing of 100 x 70 cm compared with 100 x 60 cm. Significant increase in green- leaf yield and cured leaf yield was noticed with increase in N level from 90 to 130 kg N/ha. Application of 130 and 11 0 kg N/ha, being comparable, recorded significantly higher grade index than that of 90 kg N/ha. Application of N in three splits offered significantly higher green leaf yield, cured leaf yield and grade index compared with that of N in two splits. Wider spacing gave higher total N and nicotine levels and lower reducing sugars, equilibrium moisture content (EMC) and filling value of leaf than closer spacing. There was a gradual decrease of sugars and EMC and increase of nicotine, total N and filling value with increased levels of N. Application of nitrogen in three splits gave higher total N, nicotine and filling value and lower reducing sugars and EMC of cured leaf than that of N in two splits. Maximum net returns and benefit : cost ratio accrued when planted at 100 x 70 cm spacing along with 11 0 kg N/ha applied in three splits. A spacing of 100 cm x 70 cm along with 11 0 kg N//ha applied in three splits, was found optimum for cv. 'Kanchan' for obtaining higher yield and better grade index with acceptable chemical and physical quality parameters.
Productivity, profitability and nutrient balance as influenced by diversification of Eice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: R.P. SHARMA  , S.K. PATHAK  , M. HAPUE  , MANSER LAL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2004-2005 and 2005-06 at Sabour, Bihar to diversify the existing rice (Oryza sativa L.) A wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) cropping system. Among the 14 rice-based cropping systems tested, rice-potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)Aonion (Allium cepa L.) + maize (Zea mays L.) relay cropping gave the highest mean rice-equivalent yield (30.66 tihdyear), followed by rice-garlic (Allium sativum L.) - maize (30.35 tihalyear) and rice-potato-onion (27.95 tihdyear). The highest net returns of R s 96,581lhdyear were realized from rice-garlic-maize, which were on a par with that of rice-potato-onion + maize relay cropping (Rs 92,837lhalyear). However, the benefit : cost ratio was highest (1.73) in rice-berseem [Trifolium alexandrinum (L.) Juslen.] ii maize + cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.], both grown for fodder. The highest water-use efficiency (37.01 kg rice-equivalent yieldlhdmm) was recorded with riceRgarlicAmaize system. The rice-potato-onion + maize relay cropping proved the most effective in producing highest calorific value (61,155 K calorieslha) and showed the maximum land-use efficiency (94.8%). The same cropping system removed the maximum quantity of N (371.6 kglha), P (1 10.4 kglha) and K (451.4 kg1 ha), followed by rice-berseem -maize + cowpea (F), having cor- responding values 352.0, 88.2 and 361.0 kg/ hdyear. Heavy removal of NPK by rice-berseem-maize+cowpea (F) resulted in maximum negative balance of nitrogen (1 52.9 kglha), phosphorus (31.4 kglha) and potassium (304.6 kglhalyear). Potassium balance was negative in all the cropping systems, indicating that K was the most remov- able nutrient by the crops, which results in mining of soil K and thus calls for adequate K fertilization.
Integrated weed management in dry direct-seeded rainy season rice
Authors: SWAPAN KUMAR MAlTY P.K. MUKHERJEE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during rainy season (kharit) of 2006 and 2007 at Pundibari, West Bengal to work out integrated weed management practices and their economics in dry direct-seeded rice. The weed flora emerged during experimentation were: grasses like Cynodon dactylon and Echinochloa colonurn; sedges like Cyperus rotundus, C. iria, and Firnbristylis rniliacea; and broad-leaved weeds like Ludwigia parviflora, Ageratum conyzoides, Spilanthes paniculata, Eclipta alba and Enhydra fluctuans. In integrated weed-management practices, butachlor @ 1.5 kglha as pre-plant surface application + brown manuring with Sesbania rostrata + 2,4-D @ 0.50 kglha recorded the highest grain yield (3.00-3.88 tlha), which was significantly on a par with that obtained from season-long weed-free situation (3.14-3.98 tlha). The highest net returns (Rs11,889 and 19,029lha) and benefit : cost ratio (0.74 and 1.1 9) were also recorded in this treatment. Therefore, this integrated weed management prac- tice could become effective in dry-direct seeded kharif rice under foothill (terar) agro-climatic region of West Ben- gal.
Productivity and economics of transparent polyethylene for soil solarization in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)bell pepper (Capsicum annum) sequence
Authors: H.V. NANJAPPA  , T.M. SOUMYA  , B.K. RAMACHANDRAPPA  , B.N. PRABHAKARA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2004 and 2005 at Bangalore to work out the economics of soil solar- ization on break-even basis with different thicknesses (0.05 and 0.01 mm) of transparent polyethylene (TPE) in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) R bell pepper (Capsicum annum L.) sequence. Soil solarization with TPE 0.05 mm covered twice in the same season recorded significantly higher pod yield of groundnut (2.36 t/ha) and fruit yield of bell pepper (15.1 t/ha), followed by TPE 0.05 mm covered once in the same season (2.27 t/ha and 12.0 t/ ha respectively) and TPE 0.10 mm covered twice (2.17 t/ha and 12.6 t/ha). Similarly, leaf aredplant and yield at- tributes, viz. number of podslplant (23.0) and number of fruitslplant (6.4) were also superior in soil solarization with 0.05 mm twice, TPE 0.05 mm once (21.7 and 5.3 respectively) and TPE 0.10 mm twice (22.1 and 6.0). Significantly lower number of weeds and weed dry weight was recorded with TPE 0.05 mm twice in both groundnut and bell pepper crop sequence. Repetitive use of TPE 0.05 mm for two times in the same season recorded higher net in- come (Rs 139.95 xlO3Iha) and B : C ratio (3.86) followed by TPE 0.05 mm for three times and TPE 0.10 mm for two times continuously in the same season. Soil solarization with TPE 0.05 mm thickness twice in the same season for groundnut ii bell pepper sequence was found to be highly productive and most economical practice.
Effect of intercropping in sugarcane (Saccharurn complex hybrid) on productivity of plant cane - ratoon system
Authors: A.K. SINGH  , MENHl LAL  , ARCHNA SUMAN
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Lucknow during 2002-03 and 2003-04 to assess the production potential and economic viability of autumn-planted sugarcanefibased intercropping systems, viz. sugarcane sole and sug- arcane intercropped with lentil (Lens esculentus), rajmash (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), Indian mustard (Brassica compestris), rapeseed (Brassica sp.) and maize (Zea mays L.) for cobs at 2 row spacings of 90 and 75 cm. The intercropping with rajmash had no adverse effect on the number of millable canes (1 17.6 thousandlha), cane length (21 3 cm) and cane yield (83.4 t/ha) compared with sole cane. Intercropping of rajmash and maize for green cobs resulted in highest net profit (Rs 89,883 and 83,815lha) and benefit : cost ratio (B : C) (2.53 and 2.34) com- pared with sole sugarcane (Rs 50,199 /ha). Ratoon sugarcane intercropped with lentil gave higher cane yield (64.2 t/ha) than that from sugarcane sole. Besides, there was improvement in the physico-chemical properties of the soil under sugarcane + lentil intercropping system with lower bulk density (1.26 g/cm3) and higher infiltration rate (4.75 mmlhr) compared with sole sugarcane. Inclusion of short-duration intercrops like rajmash, and maize for green cobs in autumn-planted sugarcane improved the productivity and profitability, and lentil intercropping im- proved the soil health under plantfiratoon system.
Integrated weed management in jute (Corchorus ofiton'us)
Authors: A.K. GHORAI
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted at Barrackpore during 2003-2005 to find out suitable eco-friendly and remunera- tive integrated weed-control approaches for jute cv W O 524i (eNavini). Cultural, organic and integrated chemical weed-control methods were found better than conventional manual weeding twice. In cultural method, smothering of weeds by leafy vegetable mixtures [red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L., cv Babakusumi), white amaranth (Amarantus spp.) and summer radish (Raphanus sativus L. cv Paus mulai] in jute, reduced the dry matter of weeds up to 45% when the field was dominated by grasses and broad-leaf weeds. This was followed by two manual weedings which gave 3.57 tlha jute fibre (along with 2.9 tlha red amaranth, 0.6 tlha white amaranth and 0.7 tlha summer radish, respectively). The organic approach, rice straw mulch @ 10 tlha and mixed cropping with same vegetables, followed by one manual weeding produced 3.9 tlha jute fibre (1.15, 0.64 and 0.94 tlha red and white amaranth and summer radish, respectively). It reduced the dry matter of weeds by 68 to 82%. In integrated chemical approach, spray of quizalofop ethyl (DT,, c Id) Q 60 glha + dhanuvit @ 0.5 to 0.6 Ilha (adjuvant) at 21 DAE combined with 1 hand weeding produced 3.87 tlha jute fibre. The benefit : cost ratio from conventional, cul- tural, organic and chemical approaches was l .50, .57, 2.1 9 and l .66 respectively. The residue of quizalofop ethyl l was found below the detectable limit (0.84 to 4.2 ppm) within 8 days of its application.
Productivity improvement in jhum fields through integrated farming system
Authors: S.S. RATHORE  , B.P. BHAlT
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during 2004-07 to establish integrated farming systems in jhum (slash and burn agriculture) field in Peren district of Nagaland to identify suitable combination of crops and livestock for better eco- nomic return and employment opportunities. Seven cropping systems were tested and integrated in different farm- ing systems. The ricefivegetable peafibeans cropping system was most suitable under jhum land of Nagaland. In- tegration of fish, pig, dairy cattle, duck, and the crops such as rice, vegetable pea and beans showed maximum system productivity, i.e., 126.5 tlha (rice-equivalent yield). This was followed by cultivation of rice, vegetable pea and beans along with dairy cattle (free grazing), having system productivity of 105.0 tlha of rice-equivalent yield. However, least system productivity was recorded with cultivation of rice, vegetable pea, beans, hybrid Napier, win- ter maize and soybean together with dairy cattle, with rice-equivalent yield of 56.6 tlha. Except piggery, all live- stock components (dairy, poultry, duckery and fishery) recorded better economic viability (6: C ratio > 1). The farm- ing-system approach of land use, therefore, could be adopted for sustainable production of jhum fields, and combi- nation of rice, vegetable pea, bean, fish, pig, duck and dairy cattle was found to be most sustainable and profitable.
Microclimate variations in relation to different types of polyethylene-film mulch on growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: K. SUBRAHMANIYAN  , P. KALAISELVAN  , T.N. BALASUBRAMANIAN
Published: December 2023

A field investigation was conducted at Vridhachalam in Tamil Nadu during post- rainy seasons of 2001 -02 and 2002-03 to study the microclimatic variation in relation to different types of polyethylene-film mulch and its effect on the growth and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Results revealed that, irrespective of the colour, plastic- film mulch significantly increased the soil temperature (1 .O-1 .gC) at different phenophases of crop growth from sowing to harvest. The soil temperature was higher under black-film mulch, followed by transparent - and white- polyethylene film mulches among the different mulches evaluated. The soil temperature under ridges-and-furrows land configuration was 0.3OC lesser than flat-bed and broad-bed furrow methods. Growing degree-days (GDD) and helio-thermal unit (HTU) did not show much variation between the different types of polyethylene films up to 80 days after sowing (DAS). However, heat unit efficiency (HUE) differed significantly among different types of plastic mulches but there was no such significant difference between the for soil temperature, GDD, HTU and. HUE. The dry-matter production and yield attributes were significantly higher under black polyethylene-film mulch which gave the highest pod yield of 2.87 Uha compared with 2.21 tlha by the non-mulched control. Hence black polyethylene film mulch in groundnut with adoption of flat-bed system of land configuration could be an important agricultural practice to augment groundnut productivity besides improving microclimatic conditions.
Manipulation of agronomic practices for tuber-size distribution in potato (Solanum tuberosum) seed crop
Authors: V.K. DUA  , R.C. JAISWAL  , S.C. KHURANA  , DHRUV KUMAR  , D.N. NANDEKARS  , MANOJ RAGHAV  , SANJAY RAWAL  , G.V. SASANI  , S.P.TREHAN  , S.K.TRIVEDI  , M.K. JATAV  , S.S. LAL  , K.C.THAKUR  , S.K. PANDEY  , P.S. NAlK
Published: December 2023

To improve the production of seed-size tubers in potato (Solanum tuberosum L), 31 experiments were con- ducted during 1999-2003 at nine centres, situated in different agro-climatic regions of the country. Two levels each of planting spacing (60 x 15 and 60 x 10 cm), fertilizer doses (1 00+35+66 and 150+52+66 kg of N+P+Wha respec- tively) and dates of haulm cutting (70 and 80 days after planting) were imposed on popular potato cultivars of the regions. Mean results over the locations indicated that although the yield of seed-size tuber at closer spacing (13.9 t/ha) increased by a 15.7% compared with that at wider spacing, it could not compensate for the improved seed rate of 2.22 to 2.67 t/ha. An increase in fertiliser level gave 1.6 t/ha more total tuber yield (25.3 t/ha), out of which 0.7 t/ha was in seed-size grade. Delay in haulm cutting from 70 to 80 days after planting potato improved the total tuber yield by 4.8 t/ha (21.6%), out of which 1.1 t/ha was in seed-size. Economics of potato cultivation for produci tion of seed size tubers also favoured planting at wider spacing (60 x 15 cm), with higher fertiliser rate (150+52+66 kg of N+P+Wha) and dehaulming at 80 days after planting.
Effect of composted coir pith, nitrogen and irrigation on chewing tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)
Authors: M. KUMARESAN  , P.HARISHU KUMAR  V. KR SHNAMURTHY  , R. ATHINARAYANAN I
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted from 2001-02 to 2003-04 at Vedasandur to study the effect of coconut (Co- cos nucifera L.) coir pith compost at three levels (1 0.0, 12.5 and 15.0 t/ha) in comparison with municipal compost at 25 t/ha, three levels of irrigation (0.5, 0.75 and 1.0 ETc) and three levels of nitrogen (50, 75 and 100 kg N/ha) on the yield and quality of chewing tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). The yields of first-grade leaf and total cured-leaf of chewing tobacco with municipal compost at 25 t/ha were comparable with that of composted coir pith at 10 t/ha. Irrigation at 1.0 ETc significantly increased the yields of first-grade leaf and total cured leaf by 19 and 17% re- spectively compared with that at 0.5 ETc. Nitrogen at 100 kg/ha significantly increased the yield of first-grade leaf and total cured leaf by 15 and 19% respectively than at 75 kg N/ha. Water-use efficiency was higher with 0.5 ETc and 100 kg N/ha. Net returns increased by 4% with composted coir pith at 10 t/ha than with municipal compost at 25 t/ha, 12% with 1.0 ETc than with 0.5 Etc, and 6% with 100 kg N/ha over 50 kg Nlha. Soil available P, lamina P and K uptake were higher with municipal compost at 25 t/ha than composted coir pith at 10 t/ha. Soil-organic C and nutrient uptake of lamina improved with 1.0 ETc and 100 kg N/ha than with 0.5 ETc and 50 kg N/ha, respec- tively. Nicotine increased with 0.5 ETc and decreased with 1.0 ETc. Composted coir pith at 10 t/ha, irrigation at 1.0 ETc and nitrogen 100 kg/ha were found optimum for increased yields of first-grade leaf and total cured leaf, net re- turns and benefit : cost ratio.
Forage production potential of different silvi-pastoral systems under arid conditions of Rajasthan
Authors: M. PATIDAR  , M.P. RAJORA  , RAJ SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Jodhpur during 2005 and 2006 to assess the production potential of differ- ent silvi-pastoral systems involving two grasses, viz. buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) and sewan (Lasiurus sindicus Henr.) and fodder sem (Lablab purpureus L.) as legume in association with Colophospermum mopane Kirk ex Benth.; and Hardwickia binata Roxb trees with and without N application. The results revealed that aver- age plant height and survival percentage of C. mopane were higher than of H. binata. Further, the growth of C. mopane varied significantly due to cropping systems. Fodder production was influenced by the cropping system and was maximum in L. sindicus (4.54 and 2.07 t/ha green and dry yields) and lowest in C. ciliaris + L. purpureus system (3.04 and 1.48 t/ha green and dry yields). Mean data showed that dry-fodder yield was on par with that in L. sindicus, C. ciliaris and L. sindicus + L. purpureus systems but protein yield was higher in L. sindicus + L. purpureus and C. ciliaris + L. purpureus systems compared with that in sole strips of respective grasses. Applica- tion of 40 kg Nlha increased the dry-fodder yield by 16.4% and crude-protein yield by 22.3% over the control. Thus the productivity and quality of fodder can be increased by strip cropping of C. ciliaris or L. sindicus with L. purpureus in association with C. mopane or H. binata under silivi-pastoral system in arid zone.
Precising nitrogen requirement of table potato (Solanum tuberosum) cultivars for different growth periods
Authors: PARVEEN KUMAR  , S.P. TREHAN  , B.P. SINGH  , S. RAWAL  , M.A. KHAN
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted for 3 consecutive seasons (20042007) at Modipuram to optimize the growth period-specific N requirements of table potato cultivars Kufri Pukhraj and Kufri Anand in sandy loam soils. Growth, yield and economic parameters of both the genotypes were evaluated for their response to 4 N levels (0, 90, 180 and 270 kg/ha) and 2 growth periods (75 and 110 days). The crop-growth traits and tuber number were not influenced due to harvest stages; however, tuber yield was 31.3% higher with extended duration (110 days). N ap- plication had favourable effect on growth parameters, but showed quadratic response to marketable and total tuber number/ha. Likewise, it showed steady increase in marketable and total tuber yields. Agronomic N-use efficiency (118.666.0 kg tubers/kg N applied) decreased linearly with increase in N levels. Kufri Anand recorded better growth than Kufri Pukhraj, but tuber number and yield as well as economic variables were statistically similar in both the cultivars. Net income and benefit : cost (B: C) ratio indicated that both the cultivars should be fertilized with 270 kg N/ha when harvested at 110 days, but 180 kg N/ha is sufficient when harvested at 75 days.