bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio-efficacy of various herbicides and their mixtures on weeds and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum) under subtropical agro-ecosystem
Authors: RAJEEV BHARAT  , DlLEEP KACHROO
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2004-05 and 2005-06 to study the effect of various herbicides and their mixtures on weed growth, yield attribute and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) under irrigated conditions of subtropical agro-ecosystem of Jammu region. The weed flora observed at site were Anagallis arvensis, Poa annua, Phalaris minor, Trachyspermum and Euphorbia helioscopia, of which the relative density of individual weed species out of total weeds corresponds to 1.1 1 to 4.69 per cent on application of fenoxaprop+metribuzin (120+100 g ailha) at 60 days after sowing (DAS). Among the weed-control treatments, fenoxaprop+metribuzin (120+100 g ailha), though on a par with either tank mix ap- plication of sulfosulfuron + 2,4-D (25+500 g ailha), clodinafop + metsulfuron (60+2 g ailha), isoproturon+2,4-D (750+500 g ailha) or alone application of sulfosulfuron (25 g ailha), metribuzin (175 or 200 g ailha) and isoproturon (1,000 g ailha), reduced the dry weight of weeds significantly than weedy check and other herbicide treatments. It led to significant increase in the yield attributes, viz. effective tillerslm, grainslear and 1,000-grain weight, and the yield of wheat than the rest of the treatments, during both the years of experimentation. Maximum grain yield and yield attributes were recorded in weed-free plots, and reduction of 42.29 and 38.27 per cent in yield was observed in weedy check plots during 2004-05 and 2005-06 respectively.
Effect of herbicides with or without paddy weeder on weeds in transplanted summer rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: D.J. RAJKHOWA  , N.C  DEKA  , N. BORAH  , I.C. BARUA
Published: December 2023

A field investigation was carried out during the winter (rab~) season of 2003-04 and 2004-05 at Jorhat, with herbicides, viz. butachlor, oxadiargyl, pyrazosulfuron ethyl, pretilachlor, chlorimuron + metsulfuron methyl, fenoxaprop-p-ethyl applied alone or followed by paddy weeder to test their efficiency in controlling weeds in trans- planted summer rice. All the weed-control treatments increased the grain yield of rice significantly over unweeded check and decreased the population and dry weight of weeds significantly. Uncontrolled growth of weeds caused 49% reduction in crop yield. Treatment of pretilachlor 0.75 kglha (pre-emergence) + paddy weeder, resulted in the highest grain yield, maximum weed-control efficiency (88%) and monetary returns (Rs 8,300lha). Herbicides alone were inferior to their use with paddy weeder.
Effect of chemical weed-control methods on productivity of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: J. HALDER  , A.K. PATRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2000 and 2001 on transplanted rice (Oryza sa- tiva L.) at Chiplima, Orissa, to evaluate the efficiency of different herbicides and herbicide mixtures. Application of almix 0.004 kg tank-mixed with butachlor (1.0 kglha) 3 days after transplanting (4.80 t grainslha) or application of butachlor (1.0 kg) at 3 days after transplanting (DAT) followed by sequential application of almix 0.004 kglha at 25 DAT (4.69 t grainslha) was as good as hand-weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAT (4.84 t grainslha) in controlling weeds and achieving grain yield. Application of almix 0.004 kg + butachlor 1.0 kglha and butachlor 1.0 kg, followed by almix 0.004 kglha increased the grain yield by 36.8 and 33.6%, respectively, over the unweeded check. There was a negative linear relationship between weed dry weight and grain yield (r=-0.74).
Effect of nitrogen and weed management in direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa) under upland conditions
Authors: R.P. SHARMA  , S.K. PATHAK  , R.C. SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2002 and 2003 at Sabour study the effect of nitro- gen and weed management in direct-seeded upland rice (Oryza sativa L.). Grain and straw yields of rice and N, P and K uptake by rice crop and weeds increased significantly with successive increase in nitrogen up to 120 kglha. The splits in which basal application of nitrogen was skipped off resulted in significantly higher yield attributes, grain and straw yields and nutrient uptake by crop in comparison to splits wherein part of nitrogen was applied at sowing owing to lower weed dry weight and nutrient depletion by weeds that resulted in higher weed-control effi- ciency and N-use efficiency. Among the weed-management practices, 2 hand-weedings at 20 and 40 days after sowing and pre-emergence application of butachlor at 1.5 kglha + 1 hand-weeding at 30 DAS were at par; they significantly reduced the density and dry weight of weeds and nutrient depletion by weeds. These treatments sig- nificantly increased the nutrient uptake by the crop, resulting in higher grain yield (4.18 and 4.16 tlha) of 120 kg N/ ha as a result of higher weed-control efficiency (90.6 and 84.3%), N-use efficiency (33.5 and 32.9 kg grainlkg of N applied) and production efficiency (60.4 and 60.3 kg grainlkg N applied) respectively. However, minimum nutrient uptake by crop and miximum nutrient removal by weeds were noted under weedy check.
Effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum) under limited and adequate irrigation supplies
Authors: ABHlJlT SARMA  , HARBIR SlNGH  , R.K. NANWAL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter seasons of 2000-01 and 2001-02 at Hisar, Haryana, to find out a suitable combination of chemical and organic nutritional sources for wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) grown at 2 irrigation levels, viz. adequate irrigation and limited irrigation, and 10 levels of nutrients. Wheat crop under adequate irrigation one each at crown-root initiation, late tillering, late jointing, flowering and milk stages recorded better growth, yield attributes, grain and straw yields and higher consumptive use of water and nutrient uptake. Application of 187.5 kg Nlha + FYM (10 Vha) and 150 kg Nlha + FYM (1 0 Vha) + Azotobacter recorded significantly higher growth, nutrient uptake, available N and grain and straw yields of wheat. The net in- come and benefit : cost ratio and water-use efficiency were also highest with 187.5 kg Nlha + FYM (10 Vha) + Azo- tobacter + followed by 187.5 kg Nlha + FYM (1 0 Vha) and 150 kg Nlha + FYM (1 0 Vha) + Azotobacter. Available N content also increased compared with its initial soil status under these treatments. The content of organic carbon and available phosphorus in soil increased and the bulk density and pH decreased in all the integrated nutrient- management practices involving FYM (10 Vha). Thus on integrating FYM (10 Vha) + Azotobacter with 187.5 and 150 kg Nlha or FYM (10 Vha) with 187.5 kg Nlha, productivity and monetary return can be increased by maintain- ing or improving the residual soil-fertility status after the harvest of wheat crop.
Integrated nitrogen management in wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: R.K. SIffiH  , SANDIP KUMAR SlNGff  , L.B. SmGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Bichpuri, Agra during the winter season of 2000-01 and 2001-02 to study the effect of biofertilizers, and organic and chemical nitrogen as well as their combination on growth, yield and up- take of nitrogen by wheat (Trjticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.). The treatments consisted of biofertilizer (Azotobacterand Azospirillum), organics (FYM @ 5 tfha) and 3 levels of nitrogen (50, 100 and 150 kg Nlha), and their combinations (i.0. 50 kg Nlha + Azotobacter, 50 kg Nlha + Azospirillum + FYM @ 5 tfha); one unfertilized con- trol was also included for comparison. The integrated use of inorganic fertilizer, biofertilizer and organics enhanced the growth and yield of wheat. Higher plant height and yield attributes were recorded in 50 kg Nlha + Azospirillum + FYM @ 5 tfha, followed by 150 kg Nlha. Further, seed and stover yields of wheat enhanced significantly at higher levels of N and integrated use of organic and bio-fertilizers. However, the highest yield attributes were re- corded at 150 kg Nlha. The uptake of total nitrogen by wheat was significantly higher at 150 kg Nlha than at 50 kg Nlha + Azospirillum + FYM @ 5 tfha.
Productivity, nutrient uptake and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum) under various tillage and fertilizer management practices
Authors: MEENAKSHI GUPTA  , AMARJIT S. BALI  , B.C. SHARMA  , D. KACHROO  , RAJEEV BHARAT
Published: December 2023

A field experiment on sandy clay-loam soil was conducted during 2003-2005 at Chatha, Jammu to study the productivity, nutrient uptake and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) under different (zero and conventional) tillage practices, and 3 fertility levels (75, 100 and 125% of recommended fertilizer dose) in main plots and 5 N splits (N,, 0:50:50; N, 20:40:40; N, 33:33:33; N, 50:25:25; and N, 50:50:0) in subplots rep- licated thrice. Zero-tilled wheat recorded yield attributes as well as grain and straw yield similar to conventionaly tilled crop. Increasing fertility level from 75 to 100% of recommended fertilizer dose (100, 50 and 25 kg N, P and W ha) significanlty increased the grain yield and yield-attributing characters of wheat during both the years. Further increase to 125% of recommended fertilizer dose did not prove beneficial. Application of N in 3 splits (33:33:33, 20:40:40 and 50:25:25) recorded statistically similar but significantly higher grain and straw yields than application of N in 2 splits (0:50:50 and 50:50:0). Wheat sown under zero-tillage with 125% recommended fertilizer dose re- ceiving N in splits proved profitable and beneficial option than conventionally sown crop.
Effect of tillage and herbicides on grain yield and nutrient uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum) and weeds
Authors: NAMRATA JAIN  , J.S. MISHRA  , M.L. KEWAT  , VINAMARTA JAIN
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during winter season of 2003-04 and 2004-05 on clayey soil to study the ef- fect of different tillage practices (zero tillage, zero tillage with chemically stale seed-bed, conventional tillage and deep tillage) and herbicides (clodinafop Q 0.06 kglha followed by 2,4-D Q 0.5 kglha, isoproturon Q 1.0 kglha + 2,4-D Q 0.5 kglha and weedy check) on nutrient depletion by weeds, and the grain yield and nutrient uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.). The depletion of N, P and K by weeds and uptake by crop were more or less the same under zero, conventional and deep tillage systems. Clodinafop 0.06 kglha followed by 2,4-D at 0.50 kglha gave 45.88-47.05 and 63.20-66.08 per cent higher grain yield than isoproturon + 2,4-D and weedy check respectively. The N, P and K uptake by wheat increased by 44.29-51.24, 12.00-12.87 and 8.37-9.87 kglha due to application of clodinafop followed by 2,4-D, whereas isoproturon + 2,4-D increased the uptake by 10.85- 15.50, 3.12-4.63 and 2.31-2.89 kglha N, P and K respectively compared with weedy check. Maximum benefit: cost ratio was obtained with zero tillage along with application of clodinafop followed by 2,4-D.
Effect of nutrient and weed management on forage sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) under rainfed condition
Authors: S.S. RAO  , P.L. REGAR  , B.L. JANGID  , Y.V. SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2000-01 to 2003-04 at Pali-Marwar, Rajasthan to study the effect of nutrient and weed management on yield of forage sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] under rainfed condition. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 3 replications. Application of 5 t FYMIha + 50% recommended dose of fertilizer 30 kg N and 8.75 kg Plha significantly increased green and dry fodder yields of sorghum by 35.1 and 35.7% over the control. This treatment also caused highest uptake of N and P by sorghum. The effect of FYM- treated plots on water-use efficiency was significantly higher over the control. Pre-emergence application of atra- zine @ 0.5 kglha + 1 hoeing or interculture with peg tooth-weeder at 35 days after sowing, being on a par among . themselves, caused least weed population and weed dry weight and significantly increased green and dry fodder yields of sorghum by 66-67%. Application of 5 t FYMIha + 50% recommended dose of fertilizer resulted in the highest mean net return over the control. Pre-emergence application of atrazine alone or atrazine + interculture with peg tooth-weeder at 35 days after sowing gave high net returns and benefit : cost ratio.
Effect of phosphorus and sulphur levels on growth, yield and quality of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) cultivars
Authors: HARENDRA KUMAR  , D.S. YADAV
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the two consecutive winter (rabi) seasons of 2000-01 and 2001 -02 at Agronomy Research Farm of NDUAT, Faizabad to find out the optimum dose of phosphorus and sulphur for Indian mustard [Brassicajuncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson] cultivars. The treatment consisted of four levels of P (0, 13.1, 26.1 and 39.3 kglha) and four levels of sulphur (0, 15, 30 and 45 kglha) applied though diammonium phosphate and el- emental sulphur in split-plot design replicated thrice. A significant response of crop was observed up to 26.2 kg P and 30 kg Slha in seed and stover yields.. Nutrient uptake was also highest under these treatments. The optimum dose of S and P was computed as 47.5 and 40.2 kg, and 44.0 and 40.2 kg for the first and second years respec- tively. Highest net returns of Rs 12.729 and 13,734lha were recorded with the application of 39.3 and 45 kglha P and S respectively. However, net returns of Rs 1 .I0 and I .18/ha/Re invested were highest at 26.2 and 30 kg P and S respectively. 'NDR 8501' recorded the highest seed yield of 2.01 and 2.00 Vha, and stover yield of 6.03 and 5.90 Vha during 2000-01 and 2001 -02 respectively, followed by 'Varuna'.
Evaluation of sugarcane (Saccharum of@cinarum)-based industrial waste ,and litter fall of jatropha (Jatropha curcas) for nutrient management in oleiferous rocket salad (Eruca sativa)
Authors: D.K. SHARMA  , D.S. RANA  , H.C. JOSH
Published: December 2023

A field study conducted for 2 years (2003-05) on sandy-loam soil at New Delhi showed that seed yield (1.80 t/ ha) of oleiferous rocket salad (Eruca sativa Mill.) obtained with distillery pressmud-distillery effluent compost @ 5 t/ ha + half the recommended dose of NPKS (60 kg N, 13.1 kg P, 25.0 kg K and 20 kg Slha) was on a par with the seed yield (1.69 t/ha) recorded with the recommended dose of NPKS. The seed yield recorded with former treat- ment was significantly superior to that with flyash-distillery effluent mixture (1:l) @ 5 t/ha + half the recommended dose of NPKS by 30.4% and litter-fall of jatropha (Jatropha curcas) @ 5 Vha + half the recommended dose of NPKS by 24.1%. On an average, pressmud-distillery effluent compost @ 5 t/ha + half the recommended dose of NPKS recorded perceptible increase in the available NPK status of the soil recorded after oleiferous rocket salad harvest compared with the initial fertility status. Available nutrient status of this treatment was also higher when . compared with the recommended dose of NPKS and other treatments. Application of pressmud-distillery effluent compost Q 5 t/ha alone recorded significantly higher seed yield and residual fertility after oleiferous rocket salad harvest when compared with flyash effluent mixture and jatropha litter-fall applied at the same rate.
Effect of weed-management practices on nutrient depletion by weeds, yield and economics of winter-irrigated cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: P.K. SADANGI  , K.C. BARIK
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on sandy-loam soils during winter seasons of 2001-02 and 2002-03 at Bhubaneshwar, to explore effective weed management in irrigated cotton. Eleusine indica L. Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Beauv., Digitaria sanguinalis L., Cynodon dactylon L. Pers. Cyperus rotundus L., Cyperus iria L., Ageratum conyzoides L., Heliotropium indicum L. and Gnaphalum indicum L. were the major weed flora in the unweeded control plot. Post-emergence directed spray of paraquat dichloride Q 0.2 kglha at 30 days after sowing with follow up hand-weeding at 60 days after sowing recorded the lowest weed population, maximum weed-control efficiency, highest plant height, leaf-area index, number of sympodia, bolls/plant and boll weight, and significantly increased seed-cotton yield, net return, benefit : cost ratio with maximum NPK uptake compared to other weed control and unweeded control due to lesser weed competition. It was followed by pre-emergence spray of alachlor Q 1.0 kglha at 3 days after sowing with a hand-weeding at 40 days after sowing, Weeds if not controlled within 60 days after sowing, could deplete NPK to the extent of 87.1, 17.9 and 61.7 kglha at 90 days after sowing.
Nutrient utilization by cumin (Curninum cyminum) and weeds as influenced by different weed-control methods
Authors: M.L. MEHRIYA  , R.S. YADAV  , R.P. JANGIR  , B.L. POONIA
Published: December 2023

A field study was conducted during the winter season of 2003-04 and 2004-05 at Mandor, Jodhpur with 15 weed-management treatments, to study the nutrient uptake by cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) and depletion by as- sociated weeds. Amongst the weed-management treatments, oxyfluorfen and oxadiargyl at 50 glha applied 20 days after sowing (DAS) along with 1 hand-weeding 35 DAS caused maximum reduction in weed biomass produc- tion and nutrient depletion by weeds 90 DAS and resulted in higher weed-control efficiency. These treatments also enhanced cumin yield, essential oil content in the seed and uptake of N, P and K by the crop and net monetary re- turns. Weeds in check plots cornered 93.5 kg N, 14.5 kg P and 142.6 kg Wha recorded 90 DAS, which was signifi- cantly higher than in other treatments. Paraquat and glyphosate applied 7 DAS failed to check depletion of nutri- ents by weeds significantly. Application of oxadiargyl @ 50 glha applied 20 DAS was found better than its applica- tion 7 DAS. Early post-emergence application of oxyfluorfen and oxadiargyl 50 glha followed by 1 hand-weeding computed considerably higher net returns (Us 25,595 and 24,823lha respectively) and benefit : cost ratio (2.92 and 2.80), and lower nutrient uptake compared to other integrated weed-control treatments.
Resource management for sustainable crop production in arid zone -A review
Authors: A.S. FARODA  , N.L JOSHI  , RAJ SINGH  , ANURAG SAXENA
Published: December 2023

The arid region in India is spread over 3,17,090 sq km, of which 70,300 sq km is classified as cold arid and the remaining is hot arid region. Western Rajasthan alone carries the onus of nearly 61% of hot arid lands in India. In this region, biotic pressure is high and resource base both in terms of soil and rainfall is poor. The mean annual rainfall varies from 4 5 0 to 400 mm and longest crop growth period available is
Selection of suitable integrated farming system model for rainfed semi-arid vertic inceptisols in Tamil Nadu
Authors: U. SOLAIAPPAN  , V. SUBRAMANIAN  , G.R. MARUTHI SANKAR
Published: December 2023

Five models of lntegrated Farming Systems (IFS) were examined at Kovilpatti in Tamil Nadu during 2003, 2004 and 2005 to identify a superior model for attaining maximum net returns and benefit : cost ratio, and for employ- ment generation and improving soil fertility in a semi-arid vertic inceptisols. The different IFS models assessed were: (A) conventional cropping; (B) crop + poultry (20) + goat (4); (C) crop + poultry (20) + goat (4) + dairy (1); (D) crop + poultry (20) + goat (4) + sheep (6); and (E) crop + poultry (20) + goat (4) + sheep (6) + dairy (1). Among the models examined, model (E) recorded a maximum net income of Rs 17,598/halyear, with maximum employment generation (389 mandaysthatyear). It also recorded maximum organic C (0.35%), available soil N (134 kgtha), soil P (8.5 kgtha) and soil K (378 kgtha) at the end of the study. It was followed by model C, with a net income of Rs 14,208lhdyear and employment generation of 343 mandaysthdyear. Based on the sustainability index derived for different models, the model E was found superior with a maximum sustainability for net returns (65.3%) and for employment generation (79.9%), apart from increase in soil fertility.
Productivity and profitability of winter-initiated sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid complex) ratoon through intercropping of forage legumes and nitrogen nutrition
Authors: A.K. SINGH  , MENHI LAL  S.R. PRASAD  , T.K. SRIVASTAVA
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted during 2000-01 and 2001-02 at Lucknow to study the effect of berseem [Trifolium alexandrinum (L.) Juslen.] and senji (Melilotus sp. ) intercropping on growth, yield and quality of winter- initiated ratoon of sugarcane (Saccharum spp. complex hybrid). lntercropping of berseem in winter-initiated sugarcane ratoon significantly increased the number of millable canes (1 17.8 thousandlha), cane yield (72.4 tlha), cane-equivalent yield (90.81 tlha) and commercial cane sugar (8.81 tlha) compared with sole cropping (7.66 tlha). The cane yield, cane-equivalent yield and sugar yield increased significantly with in- crease in N level in sugarcane + berseem and sugarcane + senji intercropping systems. Early-maturing, high- sugar variety 'CoS 687' sugarcane yielded higher (63.1 tlha) under berseem intercropping system than sole cropping (54.7 tlha). Applicatiorl of 125% of the recommended N fetched the highest net income (Rs 60,0411ha) and B:C ratio (2.76). Highest profit of Rs 71,5701ha and B:C ratio of 3.13 were recorded under sugarcane ratoon + berseem intercropping system along with 125% N of the recommended dose. lntercropping of berseem and senji improved the physical properties of the soil by increasing the infiltration rate (4.82 mmlhr) and reducing the bulk density (1.26 g/cm3).
Influence of puddling intensity and water-management practices on weed dynamics and yield of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: D. SUBRAMANYAM  , C. RAGHAVA REDDY  , D. SRINIVASULU REDDY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Tirupati during winter (rabi) season of 2003 and 2004 to evaluate the ef- ficiency of low-dose herbicides under different puddling and water-management practices on yield attributes and yield of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). Intensive puddling with continuous submergence (IPCS) recorded the lowest weed density and dry weight, highest stature of yield attributes (panicles/m2, length of the panicle and filled grainslpanicle), higher grain and straw yields and higher economic returns, but it was comparable with in- tensive puddling with irrigation a day after disappearance of ponded water (IPDDPW) treatment. The increase in grain yield was 40.1, 31.2 and 13.6% in IPCS, IPDDPW and normal puddling with continuous submergence (NPCS) respectively over normal puddling with irrigation a day after disappearance of ponded water (NPDDPW). Significantly lowest water requirement and highest water-use efficiency (WUE) was registered with IPDDPW fol- lowed by IPCS. Among the weed-management practices, oxadiargyl 75 glha + hand-weeding (HW) at 40 days after transplanting (DAT) recorded the highest values of all the yield attributes, yield and econpmic returns with lesser weed density and dry weight over the unweeded check, which was on a par with HW twice (20 and 40 DAT). On an average, the increase in grain yield was 39.5 and 34.2% in oxadiargyl 75 glha + HW (40 DAT) and HW twice (20 and 40 DAT) respectively over the unweeded check. The highest WUE was registered with oxadiargyl 75 g/ha + HW (40 DAT), followed by HW twice (20 and 40 DAT); however the difference in water re- quirement of rice due to different weed-management practices was not statistically evident.
Effect of nitrogen and weed-control practices on performance of irrigated direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: KAYAM SlNGH ANDH.P.TRIPATHI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) season of 2002 and 2003 at Faizabad in silty loam soil to study the effect of nitrogen and weed-control measures on weed growth and yield of direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). There was significant increase in grain and straw yields as well as yield attributes, viz. panicles/m2 and test weight, with every increase in dose of N up to 120 kglha. The weed-control treatments significantly de- creased the weed population, dry weight of weeds and weed index and increased the weed-control efficiency, panicleslm2, grain yield and straw yield compared with the unweeded check. Application of anilofos @ 0.4 kg/ha + one hand-weeding at 30 days affer sowing remained on a par with that of weed-free treatment for all the pa- rameters, recording grain yield of 5.13 tlha and weed-control efficiency of 85.27%. Weed infestation reduced the grain yield by 64.42 and 64.41% and removed N up to 63.94 and 53.27 kglha under unweeded check during the first and second year, respectively. There was response up to 120 kg Nlha in the well-managed weed-control plots.
Yield and economics of sweet corn (Zea mays) as affected by plant population and fertility levels
Authors: S.C. SAHOO  , P.K. MAHAPATRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Jashipur, Orissa during rabi (dry) season of 2002-03 and 2003-04 to study the effect of plant population (1 11 .I, 83.3, 66.7 and 55.6 x 103/ha) and fertility levels (0-0-0, 40-8.7-1 6.7, 80-1 7.5- 33.3 and 120-26.2-50 kg NPWha) on yield and economics of sweet corn (Zea mays L.). Application of 120-26.2-50 kg NPK to 83.3 x IOlants/ha produced 16.48 tlha green cobs, which was 7.6% more than of 66.7 x lo3 plantslha with same level of fertility. It gave the maximum net profit of Rs 54,453/ha, followed by Rs 49,4391ha with 66.7 x 1 O3 plantslha fertilized with 120-26.2-50 kg NPWha. The benefit : cost ratio was the maximum with 83.3 x 10lants fertilized with 120-26.2-50 kg NPWha. The increase in fertility level linearly increased the green-fodder yield. Maxi- mum fodder yield (37.49 - 41.56 tlha) was attained with application of 120-26.2-50 kg NPWha. Hence, a plant population of 83.3 x 1 03/ha with fertility level 120-26.2-50 kg NPWha should be adopted to obtain the maximum green-cob yield and net profit from sweet corn in Orissa.
Productivity, quality and resource utilization by clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) as influenced by nutrient management
Authors: V.S. RATHORE  , J.P. SINGH  , M.L. SONI  , N.D.YADAVA  , R.K. BENIWAL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) season of 2004 and 2005 at Bikaner to study the effect of nutrient management on yield, quality, nutrient uptake, water-use efficiency and economics of rainfed clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] under hot arid, rainfed condition of western Rajasthan. Nutrient application showed significant influence on productivity, quality and resource utilization (nutrient and water) of clusterbean. Application of chemical fertilizer @ 100% RDF (20 kg N + 17.5 kg Plha) recorded 50.9, 59.3 and 36.2% higher seed yield, gum yield and water-use efficiency respectively over the control. Among biofertilizers tested, dual inoculation (Rhizobium + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria) registered maximum improvement in yield, quality and nutrient uptake, followed by single inoculation of Rhizobium and PSB. Integration of chemical fertilizer @ 50% RDF with dual inoculation of biofertilizer registered 43.7 and 52.9% higher seed and gum yields respectively over the control. Dual inoculation of biofertilizer (Rhizobium + PSB) integrated with chemical fertil- izer @ 50% RDF fetched maximum net returns (Rs 8,213lha) and B : C ratio (1.6 1). :
Productivity and quality of oat (Avena sativa) in relation to cutting management and nitrogen levels
Authors: R.L. BHILARE  , Y.P. JOSH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during two consecutive winter (rabi) seasons of 2003-04 and 2004-05 to study the effect of cutting management and nitrogen levels on quality of oat (Avena sativa L.) at Pantnagar. Pooled results revealed that single cut at 50% flowering recorded significantly higher dry-matter (8.05 tlha) and digestible dry-matter yields (5.0 tlha), dry-matter content (20.85%), acid-detergent fibre (48.14%), neutral deter- gent fibre (59.56%) and hemicellulose content (23.02%) than double-cutting system. But total crude-protein yield (805 kglha), crude-protein content at both the cuts (1 8.70 and 10.55% respectively), digestibility (76.31 %), ash (1 0.44%) and cell contents (56.79%) at the first cut were significantly higher when the first cut was taken at 50 days after sowing and the second cut at 50% flowering. However, at second cut, digestibility (66.72%), ash (10.34%) and cell contents (43.47%) were statistically more when the first cut was taken at 60 days after sowing and the second cut at 50% flowering. Application of 120 kg Nlha recorded significantly higher dry-matter and di- gestible dry-matter yields; however, significant increase in crude-protein yield was observed up to 160 kg Nlha. The dry-matter content, digestibility and cell content decreased with successive increase in N level from 0 to 160 kglha, whereas the reverse trend was noticed for crude-protein content, acid-detergent fibre, neutral detergent fi- bre and hemicellulose content.
Effect of planting geometry and cutting management on productivity, quality and economics of mixed pasture under rainfed conditions
Authors: S.N. RAM  , G. SURESH  , K.K. SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on sandy-loam soil for 5 years (1997-98 to 2001-02) at Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, to study the effect of planting pattern and harvest intervals on yield, quality and monetary return of pas- ture under rainfed semi-arid conditions. Four methods of planting geometry of grasses, viz. Pennisetum trispecific hybrid [(Pennisetum americanum x Pennisetum purpureum ) x Pennisetum squamulatum], Pennisetum pedicellatum, Chrysopogon fulvus and Andropogon gayanus and legumes, viz. Stylosanthes hamata, Stylosanthes scabra, Macroptillium atropurpureum, Clitoria ternatea and Atylosia scarabaoides (1 : I 4 0 cm, 1 :2- 50 cm, 1 :I-75 cm and 1 :2-75 cm apart), and four harvesting intervals (45, 70, 95 and 120 days) in mixed pastures were studied. Planting of grasses and legumes in 1:l row ratio at 50 cm distance resulted in significantly higher green forage (22.0 tlha) and dry-matter yield (5.41 tlha) compared with 1.2 row ratio at 75 cm distance (green for- age 19.31 tlha and dry matter 4.61 tlha) during all the 5 years. Total green forage (23.2 tiha) and dry-matter yield (5.62 tlha) was also significantly increased with the harvesting of pasture at 70-day interval than other harvest in- tervals. The highest net returns (Rs 5,7171ha) and benefit : cost ratio (0.76) were obtained in 1 :I row ratio at 50 cm distance. Among harvesting treatments, highest net returns (Rs 6,793lha) and benefit : cost ratio (1.95) were achieved with 70-day harvest interval. The significant improvement in crude-protein content (grasses 6.55% and legumes 11.4%) and reduction in neutral detergent fibre (grasses 67.87% and legumes 52.81%) and acid deter- gent fibre (grasses 47.72% and legumes 36.69%) in forage was recorded in 1 :2 row ratio of grass-legume inter- cropping than 1 :I row ratio at 75 cm distance. Harvesting of pasture at 45 days interval resulted in significantly higher crude protein content (grasses 6.98% and legumes 11.35%) and lower neutral detergent fibre (grasses 64.25% and legumes 48.18%), acid detergent fibre (grasses 45.26% and legumes 33.42%) compared with 70 days, 95 days and 120 days harvest intervals, respectively in all the 5 years.
Response of ramie (Boehmeria nivea) cultivars to nutrient management and planting methods
Authors: SWAPAN KUMAR MAITY  , S. KARMAKAR  , P.K. MUKHERJEE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Pundibari, Cooch Behar in West Bengal during 2003-05 to study the re- sponse of ramie [Boehmeria nivea (L.) Gaud.] cultivars ('R 141 1 ' and ' R 67-34') to different planting methods (ridge and flat-bed methods) and nutrient management [I00 and 150% NPK supplied through chemical fertilizer, 50% N with 100% PK from chemical fertilizer + 50% N through ramie waste (1,339 kglha), and 50% N with 100% PK from chemical fertilizer + 50% N through vermicompost (828 kglha)]. Based on four cuttings, ramie cultivar 'R 141 1' recorded higher fibre yield and net income under ridge-bed planting when supplied with 150% NPK through chemical fertilizer, which was on a par with that of 50% N with 100% PK from chemical fertilizer + 50% N through ramie waste. Integrated use of chemical fertilizer and ramie waste improved the pH and NPK status of the soil. 'R 141 1' proved suitable with either sole application of 150% NPK of chemical fertilizer or combined use of chemical fertilizer and ramie waste under ridge-bed planting method to get optimum yield.
Enhancing nutrient-use efficiency in crop production - A review
Authors: D.M. HEGDE  , S.N. SUDHAKARA BABU  , A. AZIZ QURESHI  , I.Y.LN. MURTHY
Published: December 2023

The nutrient-use efficiency of all the major, secondary and micronutrients continuous to be low despite increas- ing consumption of fertilizers in India. Improvement in nutrient-use efficiency is necessary to reduce the cost of production as well as to prevent environmental pollution. Adoption of best management practices is essential to get higher input-use efficiency and profitability. Among all the major nutrients, nitrogen is most vulnerable, and in- creasing its use efficiency through physical manipulation of the size of granules, coating of granules with films, amendments or chemicals to prevent their fast dissolution or prevent bacterial-mediated denitrification did not prove economically viable. Split application is effective but costly. Reliance on biological N,fixation through inclu- sion of legumes in cropping system and maintenance of higher soil organic matter will help to build-up soil fertility and better soil physical and microbial environment with good buffering capacity. The recent developments in the field of biological nitrification inhibition offer good opportunity in effective nitrate management. Identification of effi- cient genotypes for low nutrient situations or higher response to applied nutrients through better acquisition and assimilation are encouraging. Phosphorus management should consider proper source and the cumulative effects that can be exploited through biological processes for nutrient availability and root acquisition. Adoption of conser- vation tillage, site-specific nutrient management and best fertilizer management practices will go a long way in in- creasing nutrient-use efficiency. Adoption of new technology through the gadgets such as leaf colour charts, sen- sor-based technology, laser land leveling etc. can reduce the dependence on laboratory assistance and manual labour.
Productivity, profitability and employment generation in integrated farming systems for rainfed vertisols of western zone of Tamil Nadu
Authors: D. ESTHER SHEKINAH  , N. SANKARAN
Published: December 2023

A study was conducted at Coimbatore during July 2000 to July 2002 to find out suitable farming system for small and marginal farmers of rainfed vertisols of the western zone of Tamil Nadu. All enterprise combinations tried were profitable compared with conventional practice of cropping alone. The integration of crop (0.80 ha) fertilized with buffalo manure produced on the farm, with pigeon (10 pairs on 0.01 ha), goat (5 + 1 female + male on 0.02 ha), buffalo (2 milking buffaloes + 1 calf on 0.03 ha), agroforestry (0.10 ha) and farm pond (0.04 ha) was found to be the most profitable farming system on a holistic basis. Recycling of resources and residues led to higher pro- ductivity, employment and income generation with this enterprise combination. For small and marginal farmers who are short of cash, integration of crop (0.80 ha) with pigeon (10 pairs on 0.01 ha), goat (5 + 1 female + male on 0.05 ha), agroforestry (0.10 ha) and farm pond (0.04 ha) was found to be a good alternative farming system with recycling of composted goat manure to the crop.
Effect of chiselling, green-manuring and planting methods on productivity and profitability of rice (Oryza sativa) - wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: S.C. TRIPATHI  , R.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Karnal during 2000-01 to 2003-04 to assess the effect of alternate-year chiselling (after rice crop) in rice-wheat system. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) - wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) - greengram (Phaseolus radiatus), rice - wheat - Sesbania aculeata and rice-wheat were tried on flat- and bed-planting systems for improving the productivity of rice-wheat system. Combined analysis showed that alter- nate year chiselling produced at par rice and wheat yields and rice-equivalent yield compared with non-chiselled one. Green-manuring saved 25% N for rice crop and recorded higher rice equivalent yield (15.30 to 15.41 Vha) compared with rice-wheat system (15.03 Vha) under flat planting. Bed-planting of wheat recorded 6.5% lower grain yield than flat-planting system. Growing green manure crops improved the land-use efficiency and decreased the production efficiency due to higher duration. Taking green-manure crops increased the cost of cultivation (7.7%), and hence decreased the net returns and benefit : cost ratio compared with the conventional rice-wheat system. Introduction of greengram either under flat or bed planting and Sesbania aculeata incorporation under flat planting increased the organic C content by 13.2O/0 than rice-wheat system. The chiselled plot gave 17-23% higher cumula- tive infiltration at later stages than non-chiselled plot. It was concluded that wheat on bed produces slightly lower grain yield, chiselling increases infiltration rate and green-manuring saves N and improves the organic C content of the soil.
Effect of application of biofertilizers to soybean (Glycine max) and nitrogen to tobacco (Nicotiuna tabacum) in soybean - tobacco cropping system
Authors: S.V. KRISHNA REDDY  , S. KASTURI KRISHNA  , J.A.V. PRASAD RAO  , P. HARISHU KUMAR  , V. KRISHNAMURTHY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2001-02 and 2002-03 at Jeelugumilli to find out the direct and residual effects of Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Pseudomonas striata inoculation on rainy season (kharif) soybean [Gly- cine max (L.) Merr.] cv 'JS 335' and of directly applied N in winter (rabr) season FCV tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) cv 'Kanchan' in irrigated Alfisols of Andhra Pradesh. Co-inoculation of soybean with Bradyrhizobium + Pseudomonas recorded significantly higher growth, yield attributes and grain yield than their individual inoculation and no inoculation. Green-manuring in situ with sunnhemp [Crotalaria juncea (L.) Rotar & Joy] followed by tobacco recorded significantly higher tobacco green-leaf and cured-leaf yields, and grade index compared with other treat- ments. Combined inoculation of Bradyrhizobium and Pseudomonas to soybean increased the tobacco green leaf yield, cured leaf yield and grade index by 10.5, 7.7 and 13.2% respectively compared with no inoculation. Applica- tion of 130 kg Nlha recorded significantly higher green-leaf and cured-leaf yields, and grade index compared with that of 11 0 kg Nlha. Higher total N, nicotine, lower reducing sugars and sugar: nicotine ratio in X and L leaf posi- tions were observed in sunnhemp-tobacco system, followed by soybean (co-inoculation) - tobacco system. Higher total N, nicotine, lower reducing sugars and sugar : nicotine ratio were recorded with 130 kg Nlha than with 11 0 kg Nlha. Soybean (co-inoculation) - tobacco system gave additional net returns of Rs 1,7101ha over sunnhemp-tobacco system (Rs 40,670lha). Higher B : C ratio of 1.65 was obtained with sunnhemp - tobacco sys- tem. It was concluded that combined inoculation of Bradyrhizobium and Pseudomonas to soybean improved the growth and yield of soybean and increased the succeeding tobacco yields, and application of 130 kg Nlha would be needed for tobacco succeeding soybean.
Integrated weed management in rainfed upland rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: A.V. RAMANA  , G.J. NAlDU  , K.V. RAMANA MURTHY
Published: December 2023

Field experiments were conducted at Naira, Andhra Pradesh for two consecutive rainy (kharif) seasons of 2005 and 2006 to study the efficacy of different herbicides applied alone and their integration with star weeding in rainfed upland rice (Oryza sativa L.). The reduction in grain yield due to uncontrolled weed growth was 62.6% com- pared with weed-free check. Pre-emergence application of metsulfuron methyl + chlorimuron ethyl 10% @ 6.0 glha resulted in better weed control but the improved efficacy could not be translated to better yield due to its phytotoxicity on rice. Among the herbicide treatments, pre-emergence application of oxadiargyl @ 80 glha + work- ing with star weeder at 40 days after sowing, followed by pre-emergence application of oxadiargyl @ 80 glha alone resulted in improved weed-control efficiency, better yield attributes, and higher grain and straw yields, besides fetching higher net returns and benefit : cost ratio compared with weed-free check.
Weed dynamics, productivity and economics of maize (Zea mays) as affected by integrated weed management under rainfed condition
Authors: ALOK MALVIYAf  , BHAGWAN SlNGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy season of 2005 and 2006 under rainfed condition at Faizabad on a silty-loam soil to find out the most effective weed control measure in maize (Zea mays L.). Pre-emergence appli- cation of alachlor (2.0 kglha), pendimethalin (1.0 kglha) and atrazine (1.0 kglha) alone and in combination with one hand-weeding (30 DAS), two hand-weedings (20 and 40 DAS), smother crop (blackgram and Dhaincha) and earthing-up were compared with weed-free and weedy check treatments. Two hand-weedings at 20 and 40 DAS proved most effective (weed-control efficiency, WCE 60.74 and 71.78%) followed by alachlor 2.0 kglha + hand- weeding at 30 DAS (WCE 55.86 and 68.31 %) and they reduced the weed density and weed biomass significantly, which in turn increased yield compared with weedy check. The highest grain yield of 3.70 and 3.63 tlha was re- corded under weed-free treatment during 2005 and 2006 respectively, which was on a par with two hand- weedings at 20 and 40 DAS. The highest net returns were obtained under weed-free treatment, but highest benefit :cost ratio was recorded under earthing-up and two hand-weedings.
Productivity and nutrient uptake of soybean (GZycine max) as influenced by bio-inoculants and farmyard manure under rainfed conditions
Authors: S.R. SINGH  , G.R. NAJAR  , UMMED SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Wadura in Jammu & Kashmir during the rainy (kharif) season of 2004 and 2005 to study the efficiency of Rhizobium, Azotobacter, phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and farmyard ma- nure (FYM) on performance of rainfed soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and soil fertility. Results revealed that sole or dual inoculation of soybean with biofertilizers, application of FYM and recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) sig- nificantly increased the plant growth, nodulation, seed and straw yields as well as N and K uptake over the control. Application of Rhizobium + Azotobacteri PSB + FYM showed significantly higher number and weight of nodules, but it was on par with that of Rhizobium + PSB + FYM and RDF. The improvement in seed yield over the control was 46.6, 42.2 and 38.8% under RDF, Rhizobium + Azotobacter + PSB + FYM and Rhizobium + PSB + FYM re- spectively. Further, inoculation of soybean with ~hizobium and PSB registered respectively 19.8 and 11.2% in- crease in grain yield over uninoculated control. Maximum N and P uptake, and available P were recorded with RDF, followed by Rhizobium + Azotobacter +PSB +FYM and Rhizobium + PSB + FYM, whereas the highest K up- take, organic C, and the available N and K were observed with Rhizobium + Azotobacter + PSB + FYM. Applica- tion of Rhizobium + Azotobacter+ PSB + FYM increased the available soil N by 31.2 kglha and available P by 2.05 kglha over the initial level.
Effect of different rejuvenation techniques and fertilization on sewan pasture in hot arid region of Rajasthan (Lasiurus sindicus)
Authors: K.C. SHARMA  , SUBHASH CHANDER
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2005 and 2006 at Bikaner to evaluate the different rejuvenation tech- niques and sources of nutrient supplementation on the productivity of old sewan (Lasiurus sindicus L.) pastures. Stubbles burning treatment proved superior, recording maximum growth attributes, viz. number of tillersltussock, tiller height and tussock diameter, green fodder (7.75 and 9.49 Vha), dry matter (2.78 and 3.26 Vha), crude protein (230.0 and 276.1 kglha), NPK uptake, energy ratio (10.98), energy productivity (679 gIMJ), net returns (Rs 2,5631 ha), benefit : cost ratio (1.51), and residual soil available P (8.86 and 9.14 kglha), and available K (174.3 and 167.1 kglha) compared with other treatments. Among fertilization sources, 50% each through organic and inorganic source of plant nutrients (20 kg each NPK + 5 Vha sheep manure) being on a par with 100% inorganic sources re- corded higher growth attributes, viz. green fodder (7.66 and 9.37 tiha), dry matter 2.81 and 3.24 Vha, crude protein 243.7 and 281.3 kglha, NPK uptake, energy output (48,833 MJIha) gross returns (Rs. 7,573lha) and available N, P and K status. However, maximum net returns (Rs 3,035lha) were given by 100% application of inorganic sources. Rejuvenation of old sewan pastures through stubble burning and fertilized with 50% each organic and inorganic source of plant nutrients gave maximum biomass yield. However, 100% application of inorganic sources (40 kg each NPWha through chemical fertilizers) gave the most economical pasture-grass production.
Rhizospheric environment and crop productivity: A review
Authors: R.L YADAV  , D.V. YADAV  , S.K. DUTTAMAJUMDER
Published: December 2023

Dwarf architecture of wheat and rice plants and their extensive cultivation made India a nation of food surplus. Realisation of higher crop yield required intensive use of fertilizers and water, which in turn resulted in over-exploi- tation of natural resources, leading to decline in factor productivity, soil organic C content, groundwqter table and multiple-nutrient deficiencies. Therefore, it has became essential to manage natural resources to sustain health and fertility status of the soil for maintaining adequate supply of water and nutrients to the crop plants. The rhizospheric environment, which regulates the dynamics of water and nutrient availability as well as their uptake by the roots from the soil, is crucial in this regard. Soil organic matter plays a key role in sustaining soil health. It has been envisaged that increase in the use of legumes in crop rotation, green manuring, organic mulches, farmyard manure (FYM), residue recycling, biological N, fixers and mycorrhizal associations along with effective use of soil microbes hold the key to sustain appropriate rhizospheric environment and crop productivity.