bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of rainfed maize (Zea mays) to nitrogen management in mid hill acidic soils of Sikkim
Authors: RAVIKANT AVASTHE
Published: December 2023

Two field experiments were conducted during 2005 and 2006 at Tadong, Sikkim to study the effect of nitrogen scheduling and integrated nutrient management on yield, nutrient uptake and economics of rainfed maize ( Zea mays L.) under nine schedules of nitrogen application and 11 combinations of urea, farmyard manure (FYM) and Azotobacter seed inoculation for integrated nutrient management. Amongst the various schedules of N application 1/3 N side-band placement (SBP) at sowing + 1/3 N SBP 25 days after sowing + 1/3 N SBP 50 days after sowing re- corded the highest grain yield (6.24 and 6.46 t/ha), NPK uptake (161.2 kg N/ha, 50.3 kg P/ha and 150.1 kg K/ha) and return/rupee investment (1.97). The yield increase was more pronounced with enhancement in proportion of N supply through urea from 40 to 80 kg N/ha and decrease in the quantity of farmyard manure from 20 to 10 t/ha. In- tegration of Azotobacter seed treatment + 10t FYM/ha + 40 kg N/ha 25 days after sowing + 40 kg N/ha 50 days af- ter sowing was the best treatment with the highest grain yield (6.77 and 6.93 t/ha), NPK uptake (168.4 kg N/ha, 49.0 kg P/ha and 154.7 kg K/ha) and return/rupee investment (1.99). Integrated nutrient management resulted in higher residual soil nutrients.
Effect of sources and levels of sulphur and spacing on the growth, yield and quality of spring sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
Authors: SATISH KUMAR  , S.K. TEWARI  , S.S. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the spring seasons of 2004 and 2005 at Allahabad to study the effect of 3 spacings (30 cm 30 cm, 45 cm 30 cm and 60 cm 30 cm), 4 sulphur levels (control, 15, 30 and 45 kg S/ ha) and 2 sulphur sources (gypsum and elemental sulphur) on the performance of sunflower ( Helianthus annuus . . L ) The results indicated that growth, yield attributes, yield, oil content and oil yield were found to be significantly higher at a spacing of 45 cm 30 cm. At 45 cm 30 cm spacing, seed yield increased by 11.1 and 12.9%; oil con- tent by 6.2 and 6.0%; oil yield by 18.2 and 18.1% over 30 cm 30 cm spacing during 2004 and 2005, respectively. Significant increase was recorded in growth, yield component, oil content and oil yield with increase in sulphur lev- els from 0 to 45 kg/ha through gypsum. Application of 45 kg S/ha through gypsum recorded higher growth and yield attributes, oil content and oil yield over control. Higher seed yield (1.31t/ha), oil yield (0.53 t/ha) and net re- turns (`7,468/ha) were obtained when the crop was sown at 45 cm 30 cm spacing; with application of 45 kg S / ha through gypsum for spring sunflower in sandy loam soil of Allahabad.
Yield and soil nutrient balance of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) plant ratoon system under integrated nutrient management
Authors: S. TYAGI  , S.K. SAINI  , VINOD KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2002 to 06 to find out suitable integrated nutrient management prac- tice for sustenance of soil health and productivity in sugarcane ( Saccharum officinarum L.) plantratoon cropping system for two cropping cycles. Integrated nutrient management strategies involving combinations of inorganics (NPK) + organic nutrient sources (FYM, pressmud, vermicompost, green manuring and trash incorporation) were tested against inorganic fertilizer (NPK) alone laid out in randomized block design with four replications. Results revealed that supply of nutrients to sugarcane plant through combined use of 120-60-40 kg N-P-K/ha + FYM (25% N) + Azotobacter + phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) 2.5 kg/ha each and integrated use of 150-60-40 kg N-P- K/ha + trash 5 tonnes/ha incorporation with cellulolytic culture 1 kg/tonne of trash + Azotobacter + PSB in ratoon gave the highest cane yield of 99.8 and 92.1 tonnes/ha under plant and ratoon cane, respectively. The treatment also showed significant improvement in soil health at the end of crop cycle by 47.9% substantial increase in soil organic carbon (0.88 to 1.05%), 165.2% increase in soil microbial biomass-C (213 to 297 mg C-CO /kg soil) and 2 128.6% enhancement in soil microbial biomassN (3.7 to 4.8 mg N-NH /kg soil) over initial value (0.71%, 112 mg 4 C-CO /kg soil, and 2.1 mg N-NH /kg soil). Besides integrated nutrient management modules resulted in significant 2 4 increase in the contribution of soil microbial-C to soil organic C varying from 2.38 to 3.03% against 1.58% of initial value. Soil physical properties were also enhanced as bulk density reduced from 1.57 to 1.42 Mg/m3, water stable aggregates swelled from 0.345 mm to 0.482 mm diameter under integrated nutrient management modules at ra- toon harvest. This practice was proved to be the most profitable (B: C ratio 1.94 and 2.90) for sugarcane plant and ratoon crop, respectively. Availability status of major nutrients (NPK) in soil after harvest of ratoon crop recorded a positive balance due to application of various treatments over the initial status.
Yield and quality of potato (Solanum tuberosum) tubers as influenced by nutrient sources under rainfed condition of Meghalaya
Authors: MANOJ KUMAR  , L.K. BAISHYA  , D.C. GHOSH  , V.K. GUPTA
Published: December 2023

Field experiment was conducted in three consquitive summer seasons of 2005 to 07 at Shillong, Meghalaya to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity, storage and quality of potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) under rainfed condition. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with eight nutrient man- agement practices [organic manures, viz. farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), vermicompost (VC) and their combinations with inorganic fertilizers] in the mainplots and seed treatment with three biofertilizers ( Azoto- bacter, PSB and Azotobacter + PSB) in the sub-plots. The results showed that the crop receiving 50% of the rec- ommended dose of NPK through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% recommended dose of N (RDN) through organic manures (FYM, PM or VC) or 100% recommended dose of NPK (120 kg N, 120 kg P O and 60 kg K O/ 2 5 2 ha) through inorganic fertilizers alone favorably influenced yield of different grades tubers and total tuber yield. Seed treatment with combination of Azotobacter and phosphorus solubilising bacteria proved better in enhancing the tuber yield, as compared to sole treatment of either Azotobacter or PSB. Three years pooled yield revealed that integrated application of 50% recommended dose of NPK through inorganic sources and 50% RDN through PM recorded highest tuber yield (22.73 t/ha), closely followed by 100% NPK through inorganic fertilizers (22.20 t/ ha), which were 228% and 223% higher over the control respectively. Maximum dry matter content (20.29%) and specific gravity (1.084) were found in treatment with 100% RDN through organic manures. Protein content was found 10.18% in the combination of 50% RDN through FYM and 50% recommended dose of NPK through inor- ganic fertilizers. Use of biofertilizers for seed treatment did not cause much variation in dry matter content, specific gravity and protein content. Physiological loss in weight, decay loss, total weight loss were recorded maximum with 100% recommended dose of NPK and minimum in the combination of 50% RDN through VC and 50% recom- mended dose of NPK through inorganic fertilizers.
Tillage and residue management for organic carbon sequestration in coconut (Cocos nucifera)-based cropping systems
Authors: B. SUDHA  , ANNAMMA GEORGE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out on a garden land clay loam soil at Vellayani, Kerala during 2004-06 to study the effect of cropping systems, residue management and tillage practices on organic carbon sequestration in soils and thereby improvement in soil properties for better growth and production of intercrops in a coconut garden. Among the different cropping systems, coconut ( Cocos nucifera)+pineapple ( Ananas comosus) cropping system maintained the highest organic carbon content of 1.30% at the end of two years, whereas the coconut + maize ( Zea mays L.) system maintained only 1.21% soil organic carbon. Surface mulching with crop residues could maintain organic carbon up to 1.37% by the end of the study, but when the residues were incorporated to soil, the soil organic carbon (SOC) status was only 1.13%. Among tillage practices, reduced till maintained 1.29% organic carbon, whereas the conventional tillage could maintain only 1.22% SOC after two years of study. Improvement in soil properties, like aggregate stability, porosity, bulk density, water-holding capacity etc was observed with the maintenance of soil organic carbon. The improvement in soil properties reflected in better yield and returns. Coco- nut + pineapple cropping system registered the highest B:C ratio of 3.61. Coconut + banana ( Musa spp.) system recorded a B:C ratio of 2.52, whereas coconut + maize recorded the lowest of 1.31. Benefit: cost ratios were better with reduced till practices (2.63) as well as surface mulching of crop residues (2.69).
Agronomic research on medicinal and aromatic plants in India Status and future research needs
Authors: E.V.S. PRAKASA RAO
Published: December 2023

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) are increasingly perceived as diversification crops in Indian agriculture. Development of suitable agronomic practices for MAPs is crucial to convert these plants into economically viable components in existing cropping systems. The agronomic research conducted on various MAPs in different re- gions in India has been reviewed. The review covers different areas of agronomic research such as nutrient man- agement, cropping systems, water management, weed control, crop husbandry, environmental factors and sec- ondary metabolite production, post harvest methods, utilization of marginal/problem soils and organic farming. Establishing value chains to develop MAPs based enterprises in rural areas has been emphasized. An attempt has been made to highlight important research carried out on these crops along with suggestions for future re- search in the above areas. New directions for conducting agronomic research in MAPs have been given.
Direct and residual effect of integrated nutrient management on garden pea (Pisum sativum) based crop sequence in Lahaul valley of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: VISHAL SHARMA  , AJAY GUPTA  , GURPREET SINGH KHALSA  , ROHIT SHARMA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on a sandy loam soil of Kukumseri (Lahaul & Spiti) on integrated nutrient management in garden pea ( Pisum sativum L.) under dry temperate high hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh for the two consecutive summer seasons of 2006 and 2007. All six combinations of two crop sequences [Pea-Buck- wheat ( Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and Pea- Sarson ( Brassica rapa var. brown sarson)] and three sources of organic fertilizer (FYM @ 5 t/ha, Rhizobium inoculation (RI) @ 200 g/10 kg seed and FYM @ 2.5 t/ha + Rhizo- bium) as main plot treatments and three levels of chemical fertilizers (50%, 100% and 150% of recommended NPK i.e. 20:60:30 kg N, P O and K O/ha, respectively) as sub-plot treatments were evaluated in a split plot de- 2 5 2 sign. The highest green pod yield of garden pea was obtained with an application of FYM 2.5 t/ha + Rhizobium in integration with 150% of recommended NPK through chemical fertilizers. However, from the view point of econom- ics for the cropping systems (garden pea - buck wheat and garden pea-sarson) as a whole, combined use of FYM + Rhizobium (RI) along with 100% of recommended NPK was found to be as good as FYM + RI along with 150 kg N/ha NPK.
Assessment of productivity and profitability of different rice (Oryza sativa) based cropping systems in Chhattisgarh plains
Authors: SHRIKANT CHITALE  , S.K. SARAWGI  , ALOK TIWARI  , J.S. URKURKAR
Published: December 2023

Experiments were conducted for 6 years (from 2003-04 to 2008-09) at Raipur to evaluate the production poten- tial, economic viability and competence of 7 rice ( Oryza sativa L.) based cropping systems under Chhattisgarh plains agro-climatic conditions. The cropping systems were rice-wheat [ Triticum aestivum (L.) emend Fiori and Paol]- fallow; rice-mustard [ Brassica juncea (L.) Czern and Coss]- green manure (GM); rice-coriander ( Coriandrum sativum L.) - green gram [ Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek ]; rice- table pea ( Pisum sativum L.)- maize ( Zea mays L.) (fodder); rice brinjal ( Solanum melongena L.) - green manure; rice- onion ( Allium cepa L.)- green manure and rice potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) cowpea [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]. Sunhemp ( Crotolaria juncea) was grown as green manure. The highest total productivity was obtained under ricepotatocowpea system (22.29 t/ ha) while rice-brinjal-GM gave the highest net return (` 98,252 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (2.40).However, the rice- potato-cowpea cropping sequence provided most employment (554 days). Least number of irrigations (12) with lowest quantity of water was required under rice-onion-GM, however, maximum irrigation water use efficiency was recorded under rice-brinjal-GM (235.46 kg/ha/cm water). Rice-wheat-fallow and rice-onion-GM recorded the high- est sustainability index (0.84). Rice-potato-cowpea sequence was found to be most appropriate system in terms of profit as well as sustainability over the years.
Production potential, soil health, water productivity and economics of rice (Oryza sativa)based cropping systems under different nutrient sources
Authors: V.B. UPADHYAY  , VIKAS JAIN  , S.K. VISHWAKARMA  , A.K. KUMHAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 200405 to 200809 at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh to study the effect of chemical fertilizers, organic manures (ONM) and integrated (50:50) nutrient management (INM) practices on the production potential, soil fertility, water productivity and economics of 4 rice ( Oryza sativa L.)- based cropping sys- tems involving durum wheat ( Triticum durum Desb.)-sunhemp ( Crotolaria juncea L.), potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.)-okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus L.), berseem ( Trifolium alexandrium L.) and vegetable pea ( Pisum sativum L.) and sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L. Moench). The productivity of crops in these cropping systems was higher when chemical fertilizer was used compared to ONM or INM in all the years of experimentation. In the initial years, ONM recorded a significant reduction in yield. Of the different rice based cropping systems, rice-potato-okra gave the highest rice equivalent (REs), while rice-wheat-GM gave the least REs. At the end of 5 cropping cycles, applica- tion of organic manures resulted in higher soil organic carbon, available N, P and K than the chemical fertilizers. Maximum beneficial micro-organisms were recorded under organic nutrient management (ONM) after completion of 5 crop cycles and the bulk density of soil was also lowered significantly in ONM. The B:C ratio was higher for chemical fertilizers in case of rice- durum wheat-green manuring (3.6) and rice-potato-okra (3.1) due to lesser cost of cultivation.
Dual purpose summer legumes and zinc fertilization for improving productivity and zinc utilization in aromatic hybrid rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: SHANKAR LAL JAT  , YASHBIR SINGH SHIVAY  , C.M. PARIHAR
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted during 2007-08 at New Delhi, to study the effect of dual purpose summer le- gumes and zinc (Zn) fertilization on productivity and Zn-use efficiency of aromatic hybrid rice cv Pusa Rice Hybrid 10 (PRH 10). The experiment was carried out in split plot design with 3 treatments of legume residue in main plots and seven treatments of Zn fertilization in sub-plots. The tallest plant height, number of tillers/m2, dry matter accumulation/hill, leaf area index (LAI), yield attributes and grain yield of aromatic hybrid rice was recorded with incorporation of cowpea residue followed by mungbean residue. Zinc fertilization in aromatic hybrid rice increased growth parameters, yield attributes, grain and straw yields. Application of 2% ZEU (ZnSO .7H O) was found to be 4 2 the best in terms of all the yield attributes, grain yield of aromatic hybrid rice, 2% ZEU (ZnO) was found very close to it. In respect to Zn concentrations in grain and straw of aromatic hybrid rice, 2% ZEU (ZnSO .7H O) recorded 4 2 higher Zn concentrations in grain as well as in straw of aromatic hybrid rice. The highest agronomic efficiency (AE) was obtained with the application of 2% ZEU (ZnSO .7H O). Physiological efficiency (PE) and Zn harvest index 4 2 (ZnHI) of applied Zn were also significantly influenced due to dual purpose summer legumes and various Zn fertili- zation treatments applied in aromatic hybrid rice. Cooking quality parameters were significantly improved by le- gume residue incorporation and with the application of ZEU. The highest net returns and B:C ratios of the legume- rice sequence were recorded with the legume residue incorporation and with the application of ZEU in the aro- matic hybrid rice. Thus, growing of cowpea or mungbean as dual purpose summer legumes along with Zn fertiliza- tion as 2% ZEU either with ZnSO .7H O or ZnO to aromatic hybrid rice led to higher productivity, cooking quality 4 2 and Zn-use efficiency in aromatic hybrid rice and higher net returns of this sequence.
Herbicide resistant crops: History, development and current technologies
Authors: K.N. REDDY  , V.K. NANDULA
Published: December 2023

Advances in biotechnology have led to development and commercialization of several herbicide-resistant crops (HRCs) in the mid-1990s. HRCs survive herbicide treatment that previously would have killed the crop along with targetted weeds. Both transgenic (created through stable integration of a foreign gene) and non-transgenic (devel- oped through traditional plant breeding) HRCs are commercially available to farmers. Although several HRCs are available, only transgenic HRCs, such as, glyphosate- and glufosinate-resistant crops appear to have greatest im- pact and dominate the market. HRCs are readily accepted in North and South America and are slowly making in- roads into other parts of world. Farmers who have chosen HRCs must have seen some economic and weed con- trol benefits; otherwise, the rapid increase in area planted to HRCs in recent years would not have occurred. There are benefits and risks associated with the use of HRCs as a weed management tool. The benefits of HRCs for weed management outweigh the risks based on current knowledge. HRCs should not be relied on solely to the exclusion of other weed control measures and should be used within integrated weed management programmes.
Productivity, quality and nutrient balance in spring sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) under organic and inorganic nutrition
Authors: NAVNIT KUMAR
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during spring season of 2008-09 and 2009-10 on sandy loam soil at Pusa to as- sess the effect of farmyard manure and fertilizer levels on sugarcane ( Saccharum spp. hybrid complex). The ex- periment was laid out in factorial randomized block design and replicated thrice with two FYM viz., 0 and 20 tonnes/ha and four fertilizer levels viz., F , 150 + 37.1 + 49.8, RDF; F , 150 + 43.6 + 66.4; F , 200 + 43.6 + 83.0 1 2 3 and F , 200 + 54.6 + 99.6 kg N + P + K/ha. Application of 20 tonnes FYM/ha to sugarcane recorded significantly 4 higher mean growth (tillers, 1,70,200/ha; cane height, 208.9 cm; drymatter accumulation, 33.3 t/ha), yield at- tributes (millable canes, 1,13, 600/ha; cane diameter, 2.18 cm) and cane yield (87.5 t/ha) over no FYM. An in- crease of 16.2% in cane yield, 26.31% in net return, 8.5% in benefit: cost ratio and 15.6% in sugar yield was no- ticed with FYM over its control. FYM @ 20 tonnes/ha registered an increase of 20.9% in N uptake, 20.3% in P up- take, 20.2% in K uptake, 10.0% in available N, 23.3% in available P and 6.4% in available K over no FYM. Net gain of N (65 kg), P (6.1 kg) and K (31 kg) were also highest in FYM added plots. Crop receiving 200 + 54.6 + 99.6 kg N + P + K/ha gave significantly higher tillers (1,83,800/ha), cane height (213.8 cm), drymatter (34.5 t/ha), cane diameter (2.22 cm) and number of millable cane (1,20,800/ha) though, it was statistically at par with 200 + 43.6 + 83.0 kg N + P + K/ha. There was an increase in cane and sugar yield with each successive increase in N + P + K level from 150 + 37.1 + 49.8 kg/ha to 200 + 43.6 + 83.0 kg/ha. Increasing N + P + K levels from F to F signifi- 1 3 cantly increased the net returns. However, further increase to F level did not proved profitable option. Fertilizer 4 application increased the N uptake from 164 to 238 kg/ha, P uptake from 14.9 to 21.9 kg/ha and K uptake from 191.3 to 277.6 kg/ha. Significant increase in available N status was recorded with an application of 200 + 43.6 + 83.0 kg N + P + K/ha. However, available P status in post harvest soil increased significantly with each successive increase in fertilizer up to highest levels i.e. 200 + 54.6 + 99.6 kg N + P + K/ha. Available K status was the highest (121 kg K/ha) at 200 + 54.6 + 99.6 kg N + P + K/ha though it was on par with 200 + 43.6 + 83.0 kg N + P + K/ha. Net gain of N, P and K were progressively increased with increase in N + P + K levels from 150 + 37.1 + 49.8 to 200 + 54.6 + 99.6 kg/ha.
Influence of seed rate, nitrogen and zinc on fodder maize (Zea mays) in temperate conditions of western Himalayas
Authors: S. SHERAZ MAHDI  , BADRUL HASAN  , LAL SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Shalimar, Srinagar during 2009 and 2010, to study the effect of seed rate and nitrogen and zinc fertilization on yield and quality of fodder maize ( Zea mays L.) var. J-1006. Application of N @ 120 kg/ha has resulted significantly higher plant height, leaf area index, green fodder yield, nitrogen content and its uptake, zinc content and its uptake, Ca content and crude protein content. Seed rate of 60 and 80 kg/ha being at par, recorded significantly higher plant height, leaf area index and green fodder yield over 40 kg/ha. Zinc application @ 10 kg/ha, significantly increased plant height, leaf area index and green fodder yield. N and Zn con- tent and their uptake while Ca and crude protein content remain unaffected. Net returns and B:C ratio were re- corded highest with 120 kg N/ha, 80 kg seed/ha and 10 kg Zn/ha.
Effect of nutrient sources and weed control methods on yield and economics of baby corn (Zea mays)
Authors: NIRANJAN KUMAR BAROD  , SHIVA DHAR  , ASHOK KUMAR
Published: December 2023

Results of the field experiment conducted at New Delhi during kharif season of 2008 showed that baby corn can be grown profitably with application of 120 kg N through vermicompost and two hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS or pre-emergence tank mix application of atrazine @ 0.5 kg + pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg/ha.
Productivity and sustainability of rice (Oryza sativa) based cropping systems in Kymore plateau and Satpura hills zone of Madhya Pradesh
Authors: MONIKA SONI  , V.B. UPADHYAY  , S.K. VISHWAKARMA  , POONAM SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 200708 and 200809 on a sandy clay loam soil, to indentify sustain- able rice ( Oryza sativa L.) based cropping systems with higher productivity, economics and efficient use of water in Kymore Plateau and Satpura hills zone of Madhya Pradesh. In these 12 cropping systems, rice was sequenced ) with feasible rabi viz., wheat [ Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Paol & Fiori], chickpea (Cicer arietinum L. , onion ( Al- lium sepa L.), berseem ( Trifolium alexandrinum L.), potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.), gobhi sarson ( Brassica napus var. napus ), vegetable pea, ( Pisum sativum L.), garlic ( Allium sativum L.), marigold ( Tagetes erecta L.) and sum- mer crops viz., maize ( Zea mays L.), green gram ( Vigna radiata L. Wilczek), sunflower ( Helianthus annuus L.), groundnut ( Arachis hypogaea L.), okra ( Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) and cowpea ( Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.). Hybrid rice JRH-5garlicmaize+cowpea cropping system recorded the highest productivity (27.35t/ha/ year) in terms of rice equivalent yields (REY) with net monetary returns of ` 1,75,980/ha/year, 4.47 benefit:cost ra- tio and water productivity of 137.9kg/ha/cm. Both the existing cropping systems viz., ricewheat and ricechickpea recorded the least productivity, net monetary returns, benefit:cost ratio and water productivity. The highest total uptake of N, P and K nutrients was under rice gobhi sarsonokra cropping system. After completion of 2 crop cycles, there was a slight improvement in organic carbon and total N content of soil due to inclusion of legumes.
Effect of tillage sequence and weed management on weed dynamics and productivity of dry-seeded rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) system
Authors: J.S. MISHRA  , V.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2006-07 to 2008-09 at Jabalpur to study the effect of four tillage se- quences [zero-till planting of both the crops (ZT-ZT), conventional planting in both the crops (CT-CT), and two ro- tational tillage sequences that altered between zero-till and conventional tillage (ZT-CT and CT-ZT)] and three weed control treatments (weedy check, herbicide alone, and herbicide + 1 hand weeding at 35 days after sowing) on weed dynamics, tillage economy and productivity of dry-seeded rice ( Oryza sativa L.)-wheat [( Triticum aestivum (L.) emend Fiori & Paol)] system on a clay-loam soil. Results revealed that continuous zero tillage in- creased the population density of Echinochloa colona (L.) Link (jungle rice) and Cyperus iria L. (rice flat sedge), the most dominant weeds of rice. In subsequent wheat crop, zero tillage reduced the population of Avena ludoviciana (L.) Dur. (wild oats) and Chenopodium album L. (common lambsquarters) but increased the density of Medicago hispida Gaertn. (burclover) as compared to other tillage systems. Rotational tillage systems had vari- able effects on weed density in rice and wheat. Pendimethalin (1.0 kg/ha) fb 2, 4-D (0.50 kg/ha) significantly re- duced the population density of E. colona, C. iria and Alternanthera sessilis (L.) D.C. (sessile joyweed) but failed to control Caesulia axillaris Roxb. (pink node flower) in rice. In subsequent wheat, clodinafop propargyl alone sig- nificantly reduced the population of A. ludoviciana, but M. hispida was unaffected even with integration of herbi- cide with 1 hand weeding. Continuous zero tillage yielded 25.1 and 15.4% higher grain yields of rice and wheat re- spectively, than that of conventional tillage regardless to weed control methods. Continuous zero tillage with rec- ommended herbicide + 1 hand weeding recorded the maximum net returns (`73.87 103/ha) and B: C ratio (3.81) in direct-seeded rice-wheat system.
Performance of rice (Oryza sativa) varieties at different spacing under system of rice intensification (SRI) in mid hill acid soils of Sikkim Himalayas
Authors: R.K. AVASTHE  , S. VERMA  , ASHOK KUMAR  , H. RAHMAN
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted at the ICAR Sikkim Research Farm, Tadong located at an altitude of 1450 m amsl in the per-humid mid hill acidic soils during kharif (rainy season) of 2008 and 2009 to evaluate the perfor- mance of four rice ( Oryza sativa L.) varieties viz., RCPL 1-87-8 (medium-duration, 125 days), Pusa Sugandh-2 (medium-duration, 130 days), RC Maniphou-7 (long-duration, 150 days) and one local cultivar Thulo Attey (long- duration, 155 days) under different spacing in system of rice intensification (SRI) compared with conventional rice cultivation. RC Maniphou-7 recorded the highest grain yield (6.73 t/ha), N uptake (124.8 kg/ha), P uptake (40.5 kg/ha), K uptake (84.3 kg/ha), water use efficiency (2.879 kg/ha-mm), net return (Rs. 72,750) and benefit: cost (2.09) at 20 cm 20 cm spacing under SRI. Total N, P and K uptake was the highest in SRI with a spacing of 20 cm 20 cm in RCLP 1-87-8, RC Maniphou-7 and local cv Thulo Attey over conventional rice cultivation. The
Crop-weed competition and weed management studies in direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: MOOLCHAND SINGH  , C.V. SAIRAM  , M.B. HANJI  , S. PRABHUKUMAR  , NAND KISHOR
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted during 2006-07 and 2007-08 at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Madurai, Tamil Nadu under the Zonal Project Directorate, Bangalore to study the critical period of crop weed competition and develop an integrated and effective weed control practices, combining chemical, manual and mechanical methods, for di- rect seeded rice ( Oryza sativa L.). It was found that first 40 days after sowing was the most critical period for crop weed competition. The crop grown under weed free condition for 40 days after sowing gave the maximum grain yield (2.93 t/ha). Hand-weeding followed by foliar application of urea was significantly superior to rest of the treat- ments and gave maximum grain (4.33 t/ha) and straw yields (8.17 t/ha). Post-emergence application of propanil @ 3.8 kg/ha at 20 days after sowing and soil application of urea was most effective in increasing the crop yield and minimizing the crop weed competition. Highest weed control efficiency of 88.1% was recorded in crop given propanil @ 3.8 kg/ha + hand weeding within rows and hoeing at 40 DAS and it closely followed by the application of butachlor @ 2.5 kg/ha + hand weeding within rows and hoeing at 40 DAS. In the integrated approach, post- emergence application of propanil @ 3.8 kg/ha at 20 days after sowing followed by hoeing between the rows and hand weeding within rows at 40 days after sowing minimized crop weed competition, increased uptake of N, P and K by crop and maximized grain yield and economical returns significantly.
Effect of population density of Phalaris minor on production potential of wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: RAMANJIT KAUR  , R.K. MAHEY  , P.K. KINGRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Ludhiana, Punjab, for two years (2006-07 and 2007-08) to study the ef- fect of varying population levels viz., 0, 10, 15, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250 and a solid stand of Phalaris minor on the production potential of wheat ( Triticum aestivum L. emend Fiori and Paol) crop and also to find out the critical threshold level of Phalaris minor. In the experiment Phalaris minor population was deliberately main- tained in wheat crop after 30 days of sowing. As the population density of Phalaris minor increased, the dry mat- ter production, number of tillers as well as effective tillers and ultimately yield of wheat decreased exponentially. Even the presence of 15 plants/m2 Phalaris minor resulted in significant decrease (14%) in wheat yield. Reduc- tion in wheat yield was mainly attributed to reduction in the number of effective tillers, lesser grains/spike and lower 1,000-grain weight.
Productivity and profitability of different genotypes of sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) as affected by fertility levels and planting seasons
Authors: NAVNIT KUMAR  , HARENDRA SINGH  , RAKESH KUMAR  , V.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years (2007-10) on calcareous soil at Pusa (Bihar) to evaluate 3 sugarcane ( Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) midlate genotypes (BO 147, BO 146 and CoP 022) at 3 levels of fertilizer viz; 75% RDF, RDF (150 kg N + 37.1 kg P + 49.8 kg K/ha) and 125% of RDF in two seasons (autumn and spring). Higher growth, yield attributes and cane yield in terms of tillers (170.4 and 149.3 thousand/ ha), cane length (211 and 204 cm), total dry matter accumulation (33.2 and 30.0 t/ha), number of millable cane (112.0 and 109.6 thousand/ha), cane yield (82.9 and 75.2 t/ha) and sugar yield (9.6 and 8.5 t/ha) were recorded in BO 147 in autumn and spring season, respectively. However, genotype BO 146 showed significantly higher val- ues of brix and pol % juice across the planting season. Nutrient uptake followed the yield pattern of the varieties. Genotype BO 147 gave higher net returns and benefit: cost ratio across the season. Significantly higher tillers (158.5 and 140.8 thousand/ha), cane length (213 and 208 cm), dry matter accumulation (33.9 and 30.9 t/ha), cane diameter (2.38 and 2.18 cm), number of millable canes (107.1 and 105.0 thousand/ha) and cane yield (86.0 and 79.9 t/ha) were obtained with the application of 125% recommended dose of fertilizer in autumn and spring sea- son, respectively. Though all of these parameters except dry matter in both the season and cane diameter during spring season were statistically similar to 100% RDF. Autumn planted sugarcane recorded 9.8 and 11.1% higher sugar over spring planted sugarcane. Nutrient uptake increased significantly with each successive increase in fer- tility level upto 125% RDF, resulting in 59.6; 53.2% increase in N uptake, 46.9; 51.2% increase in P uptake and 48.5; 50.9% increase in K uptake due to application of 125% RDF over 75% RDF during autumn and spring sea- son respectively. Similarly, the available N, P and K content of soil was found to be higher due to the enhanced levels of applied nutrients to the soil. Significant increase in net returns was obtained by increasing levels of N, P and K during both the seasons. Sugarcane BO 147 can be grown for higher sugar yield and economic returns with application of 187.5 kg N + 46.4 kg P + 62.3 kg K/ha (125% RDF) during autumn as well as spring season.
Productivity, water use and quality of onion (Allium cepa) seed production under different irrigation scheduling through drip
Authors: S.K. DINGRE  , D.D. PAWAR  , K.G. KADAM
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years from 2008 to 2010 to study the different irriga- tion scheduling through drip irrigation for onion ( Allium cepa L.) seed production. The experiment comprised of twelve treatments under drip method of irrigation with combination of three irrigation regimes viz. 75 %, 100 % and 125 % of cumulative pan evaporation (CPE) and four irrigation intervals viz. 1, 3, 7, and 10 days and con- ventional irrigation at 50 mm CPE as an control treatment. The study showed that drip resulted into 41 to 62 % water saving with 4 to 26 % increase in yield of onion seed as compared to surface irrigation. The growth and yield attributes in drip irrigated treatments showed decreasing trend with increase in irrigation interval and CPE. When drip irrigation applied daily at 100 % of CPE, the yield increased upto 26 % as compared to control. These results were on par with drip irrigation applied daily and at every 3 days with 75 % of cumulative pan evapora- tion (CPE) with 20-24 % increase in yield as compared to seed yield obtained from surface irrigation at 50 mm CPE. The application of drip at 7 days interval did not increase the seed yield whereas, drip at 10 days interval resulted into 14 % reduction in yield as compared to surface irrigation yield. The water use efficiency was found maximum (16.9 kg/ha/cm) in drip irrigation with 75 per cent of cumulative pan evaporation (CPE) at 3 days inter- val. The economics revealed that higher benefit: cost ratio was obtained under drip irrigation at daily and 3 days application. The drip application at every 3 days interval with 75 % CPE was found to be optimum and effective for growth, yield, and quality as well as economically viable for onion seed production.
Effect of number and age of seedlings on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and economics of rice (Oryza sativa) under system of rice intensification in temperate conditions
Authors: A. HUSSAIN  , M.A. BHAT  , M.A. GANIE
Published: December 2023

Field experiment was conducted during the Kharif 2007 and 2008 at Rice Research and Regional Station Khudwani to evaluate the effect of number of seedlings/hill and their age on growth, yield and nutrient uptake of rice ( Oryza sativa L.) under system of rice intensification (SRI).The 12 treatments combinations of 1, 2 and 3 seed- lings/hill, transplanted at an age of 14, 21, 28 and 35 days were laid out in RBD with 3 replications. The seedlings were transplanted in a square pattern at 25cm 25cm spacing. The crop was supplied with fertilizers dose of 100: 19.5: 21 N:P:K kg/ha + 5t/ha FYM. The plots were irrigated with intermittent drainage and weeded by conoweeder twice after initial herbicide application. The results revealed that transplanting 1 and 2 seedlings produced similar growth, yield attributes and yields but significantly higher than 3 seedlings/hill. Transplanting 1 or 2 seedlings/hill gave yield advantage of around 7% over 3 seedlings/hill. Among the seedling ages 14 and 21 days old seed- lings resulted in significantly higher growth, yield attributes and yield than 28 and 35 days old seedlings. Twenty one days old seedlings are more robust and convenient to transplant and produced grain yield at par with 14 days old seedlings, but produced 5.8% and 13.9 % more grain yield than 28 and 35 days olds seedlings respec- tively.
Effect of different sowing dates on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars under mid hill situation of West Bengal
Authors: DHIMAN MUKHERJEE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi 2008-09 and 2009-2010 at the Regional Research Station (Hill Zone) of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalimpong (1250 m amsl), to elucidate the ef- fect of different sowing dates and cultivars on yield of wheat ( Triticum aestivum (L.) emend Fiori & Paol.). The experiment was conducted in split plot design with 3 replications with treatments comprising five dates of sowing viz. Nov. 1, Nov. 15, Nov. 30, Dec. 15 and Dec. 30 in main plots and 6 different wheat cultivar viz. HS 473, HPW 236, VL 875, HS 365, VL 832, PBW 343 and SKW 196 in sub-plots. Sowing on Novem- ber 15, significantly influenced most yield attributes and was at par with November 30 sowing, but signifi- cantly superior to later sowings. The highest grain yield was obtained with November 15 sowing (2.79 and 2.49 t/ha), which was at par with November 30, and November 1 sowings in first year and in second year this was statistically similar with all date of sowing except extreme late sown condition. Sowing in mid November gave 14.9 and 26.2% more grain yield over December 30 sowing. Amongst the cultivars, HS 473 was found to be best and gave significantly more grain yield than HS 365 (2.93 and 2.74 t/ha) and was at par with VL 875 (2.86 and 2.50 t/ha) and PBW 343 (2.89 and 2.61 t/ha). More biomass production was recorded with early November 15 sowing, which was at par with November 30 sowing. Within the cultivars, maximum biomass production was recorded with HS 473 (7.78 and 7.28 t/ha) and was statisti- cally at par with VL 875, SKW 196 and PBW 343. Uptake of NPK was most with PBW 343, which was at par with HS 473. Maximum net return ( 24,926 and 23,192/ha, respectively) recorded with No- vember 15 sowing, followed by November 30 sowing. This treatment also recorded higher B: C ratio (2.11 and 2.03, respectively). Amongst cultivars, maximum net return ( 26,986 and 24,368/ha) and B: C ratio (2.21 and 2.08) was recorded with cultivar HS 473 followed by PBW 343 and SKW 196.
Yield and soil improvement in rainfed crop production
Authors: W.K. ANDERSON  , K.C. FLOWER  , K.H.M. SIDDIQUE
Published: December 2023

Resources of arable land and irrigation water available in the world are diminishing while the population contin- ues to increase. This situation has contributed to chronic malnutrition and starvation in times of crisis. While the twin problems of overpopulation and unequal distribution of food between rich and poor people are political prob- lems, increasing the supply of food from the existing resources of land and water is a problem that can be ad- dressed by agronomists. It is widely recognised that average farm yields of rainfed crops, even in developed coun- tries, seldom exceed half of the theoretical potential yield if all the rain is used efficiently. It is proposed that this gap between actual and potential grain yield can be effectively addressed using existing technologies that do not destroy soil fertility, and may even improve it. This paper discusses the contributions that agronomists are making and can make in the future to increase the yields of rainfed crops. Agronomic practices that can improve yield and the management of soil resources that will sustain such improvements in the longer term are inter-linked. The in- creasing use and benefits of conservation agriculture, the benefits of rotating crops, especially with legumes, and the possibility of improving crop yields through diagnosing and treating the factors limiting production are dis- cussed.
Effect of phosphorus and bioinoculants on yield, nutrient uptake and economics of long duration pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)
Authors: AMITESH KUMAR SINGH  , R.S. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2008-09 and 2009-10 to study the response of phos- phorus (0, 25, 50 and 75 kg P O /ha) and bioinoculants (control, PSB, PGPR and PSB + PGPR) on yield and yield 2 5 attributes, nutrient uptake and economics of pigeonpea ( Cajanus cajan L.). Application of 75 kg P O /ha recorded 2 5 the highest grain yield (2.19 t/ha) and yield attributes, nutrient uptake, gross returns ( 1,19,858/ha), net returns ( 90,500/ha) and B:C ratio (3.09), which was significantly superior over 25 kg P O /ha. Agronomic (AEp), recovery 2 5 (REp) and physiological (PEp) efficiency was the highest with 25 kg P O /ha, followed by 50 and 75 kg P O /ha. 2 5 2 5 REp was the highest with 50 kg P O /ha. Dual seed inoculation with PSB + PGPR produced the highest yield (2.24 2 5 t/ha) and yield attributes, nutrient uptake, gross returns ( 1,22,377/ha), net return ( 93,498/ha) and B: C ratio (3.23), being significantly superior over PGPR, PSB and control. AEp and REp was the highest with PSB followed by PSB + PGPR and PGPR, while PEp was the maximum with PGPR. The available phosphorus in soil after har- vest of the crop was the highest (22.2 kg/ha) with application of 75 kg P O /ha. 2 5
Effect of land configuration and weed management in onion (Allium cepa)
Authors: MANDEEP KAUR SAINI  , U.S. WALIA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted to examine the effect of different planting patterns and weed management practices on weed growth and productivity of onion ( Allium cepa L.) during rabi 2006-07 and 2007-08. The experi- ment was laid out in split-plot design with planting patterns of onion in main-plots (flat and raised bed planting with or without rice straw incorporation) and weed management practices viz., pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg/ha, oxyflourfen @ 0.225 kg/ha, fluchloralin @ 1.125 kg/ha, two hand weedings and control (unweeded) in sub-plots. Weed popu- lation and dry matter accumulation of weeds under different planting patterns and straw management techniques remained unaffected throughout the crop growth period and at uprooting. Yield attributes and bulb yield were not significantly influenced by planting patterns. Population and dry matter accumulation of weeds were significantly reduced with the application of oxyflourfen, pendimethalin and two hand weedings, when compared with fluchloralin and unweeded control during both years of investigation. Application of oxyflourfen gave the highest bulb yield, which was at par with pendimethalin and two hand weedings. These treatments gave significantly more bulb yield than fluchloralin and unweeded control. The highest net returns obtained with flat bed sowing with rice straw incorporation. Among the different weed control treatments, the maximum net returns of 185.6103/ha with BCR 7.63 registered with oxyflourfen. Unweeded control treatment recorded the lowest net returns of 94.3103/ ha with BCR 4.10.
Plant population and nutrient requirement for baby corn hybrids (Zea mays)
Authors: V. SOBHANA  , ASHOK KUMAR  , L.K. IDNANI  , ISHWAR SINGH  , SHIVADHAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment conducted at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi shows that HM 4 was a
Response of rice (Oryza sativa) varieties to graded levels of nitrogen under aerobic culture
Authors: K.V. RAMANA MURTHY  , D.S. REDDY  , G. PRABHAKARA REDDY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2006 and 2007 at Agricultural College, Naira on the response of rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties to graded levels of nitrogen. Plant height, leaf area index, root volume and dry matter production were the highest with Vasundhara and 120 kg N/ha at all the stages during both the years of study. Panicles/m2, filled grains/panicle, grain yield (4.51 and 4.30 t/ha) and straw yield and nitrogen uptake by grain and straw were also significantly higher in the variety Vasundhara. Increasing levels of nitrogen progressively enhanced panicles/m2, filled grains/panicle, grain and straw yield and nitrogen uptake by grain and straw only up to 120 kg N/ha. Varieties and nitrogen levels interacted significantly and the highest grain yield and economics were recorded with Vasundhara at 120 kg N/ha and it was found to be optimum combination for aerobic rice.
Integrated weed management in blackgram (Vigna mungo) under mid hills of Arunachal Pradesh
Authors: V.K. CHOUDHARY  , P. SURESH KUMAR  , R. BHAGAWATI
Published: December 2023

Field investigation was carried out during pre kharif seasons of 2009 and 2010 at ICAR, Research Complex NEH Region, Arunachal Pradesh Centre, Basar to develop integrated weed management for blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) var. PU-31 with pre plant incorporation of fluchloralin @ 1.5 lit/ha, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 1.5 lit/ha and hand weeding. Pre-emergence application of pendimethalin @ 1.5 lit/ha + one hand weeding on 25 DAS was at par with 2 hand weeding at 15 and 25 DAS in respect of seed yield, net returns and B: C ratio. In weedy check, weeds removed 6 kg N, 2.8 kg P and 7.0 kg K/ha.
Effect of nutrient management on FUE, red leaf, fibre properties of Bt hybrid cotton (Gossypium hirsutum )
Authors: AMBATI RAVINDER RAJU  , SONIYA K. THAKARE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2008, 2009 to study the effect of nutrient management on fertilizer use efficiency (FUE), red leaves and fibre quality in multiple pickings of Bt hybrid cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) at Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur (21 09' N, 79 09' E). Senescence was faster in Bt hybrid cotton in mid-October, 2008 with deficient rainfall in shallow soils. Soil application of MgSO @ 25 kg/ha /3year in shal- 4 low soils significantly reduced the formation of red leaves in October. Cell sap sucking jassids and thrips on Bt hy- brid cotton (Bunny) leaves caused N deficiency and accumulation of anthocyanin in August month. Higher FUE was observed in non Bt hybrid cotton compared to Bt hybrid cotton. Fertilizer response, FUE and profitability was significantly improved by application of 150% RDF or ZnSO @ 25 kg/ha/3year + MgSO @ 25 kg/ha /3year + bo- 4 4 rax @10 kg/ha /3year + sulphur @ 20 kg/ha/2 year together. Bt hybrid cotton was significantly not profitable with lesser returns and lower yields than non Bt isogenic line of NCS 145 under adverse weather conditions and resur- gence of sucking pests. Bundle strength tenacity (g/tex) at 3.2 mm guage and fineness were not significantly af- fected across pickings, both were 15%-18% shortage of spinning norms.