bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of weed management practices on weeds and okra crop
Authors: T.U. PATEL  , M.J. ZINZALA  , H.M. PATEL  , P.S. PATEL  , D.D. PATEL
Published: December 2023

A preliminary study was conducted during the summer of 2014 and 2015 at the N.M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India to evaluate the 10 treatments of weed-management, i.e. stale seedbed, pre- and post-emergence herbicides alone and in combination, integrated weed-management and hand-weeding in summer okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]. Almost 73.2% of weed infestation was dominated by grasses and sedges, followed by broad-leaf weeds (26.8%). Uncontrolled weed growth caused significant reduction in mean green pod yield of okra by 67%. Weed-free plot [3 hand-weedings (HW) at 20, 40 and 60 days after sowing (DAS)] showed the maximum weed-control efficiency (WCE) (88.4%), resulting in higher green pod yield (16.8 t/ha) and net returns (`105,233/ha). Statistically at par yields were also obtained from plots treated with not incorporated and 2 HW at 20 and 40 DAS (14.3 t/ha) and pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha followed by (fb) quizalofop-ethyl 0.04 kg/ha at 30 DAS (13.9 t/ha) with net returns of `83,442 and `82,277/ha respectively. Application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha (pre) fb quizalofop ethyl 0.04 kg/ha at 30 DAS supressed the weeds effectively (71.3% WCE) which not only reduced the drudgery of farm labour but also found practically more convenient and economically feasible weed-management option for higher production of okra fruit crop.
Efficacy of doses of fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 69% EC and cyhalofop-butyl 10% EC on weed growth, yield and economics in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: SANJEEV KUMAR  , MANOJ KUMAR SINGH  , PRATIK SANODIYA
Published: December 2023

A field investigation was conducted during the rainy season of 2019 at Agricultural Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, to study the efficacy of doses of fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 69% EC and cyhalofop-butyl 10% EC in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.). Among different herbicidal treatments fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 86.25 g/ha recorded lower weed density of awnless barnyard grass [Echinochloa colona (L.) Link], water grass [Echinocloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv.] and other weeds, total dry weight and higher weed-control efficiency at 58 days after transplanting, followed by cyhalofop-butyl 80.0 g/ha. Phytotoxicity on crop plants caused by the application of fenoxaprop-p ethyl 86.5 g/ha included yellowing, necrosis, stunting, and epinasty at various stages; however, phytotoxicity disappeared as the crop developed. Fenoxaprop-pethyl 86.25 g/ha markedly improved growth attributes, viz. plant height, tillers/hill, dry-matter accumulation/hill, leaf-area index, chlorophyll content and yield attributes and yield, viz. panicle length, panicle weight, panicles/hill, grains/panicle, 1,000-grain weight, grain and straw yields and net returns in comparison to cyhalofop-butyl 80.0 g/ ha and lower dose of fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 69.0 g/ha.
Response of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) to varying spacing and transplanting in north Gujarat region
Authors: MEHUL PATEL  , A.L. JAT
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Castor Mustard Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat during the winter (rabi) season of 2020–21, to study the response of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj.] to different spacing and transplanting schedule in north Gujarat. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design with 4 spacing in the main plots and 3 transplanting dates in the subplots, that were replicated 3 times. The maximum plant height at harvesting (189.18 cm) and crop-growth rate (11.69 g/plant/day) at 30–60 days after transplanting (DAT) were recorded with narrow spacing of 45 cm × 30 cm and higher dry-matter accumulation at 30 and 60 DAT (11.57 and 71.70 g/plant respectively) were recorded at 60 cm × 45 cm spacing. Indian mustard transplanted at 45 cm × 30 cm spacing recorded significantly higher seed yield (2,187.1 kg/ha), being statistically at par with spacing 45 cm × 45 cm spacing (2,070.4 kg/ha). In terms of seed yield, the crop transplanted on 10 November (2,142.7 kg/ha) outperformed the crop transplanted on 20 November (1,829.0 kg/ha), but it was statistically on a par with the crop transplanted on 31 October (1,996 kg/ha). The higher net returns (`61,227/ha), production efficiency (19.59 kg/ha/day) and economic efficiency (`548.5/ha/ day) were registered at 45 cm × 30 cm spacing. Significantly higher net return realization (`63,596/ha), production efficiency (19.13 kg/ha/day) and economic efficiency (`567.8 /ha/day) were noted under 10 November transplanting.
Productivity, nutrient uptake and profitability of winter season rice (Oryza sativa) varieties as influenced by alternate wetting-drying irrigation and nitrogen management
Authors: K. SRIDHAR  , A. SRINIVAS  , K. AVIL KUMAR  , T. RAM PRAKASH  , P. RAGHUVEER RAO
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted on clay loam soil at Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, during the winter (rabi) season of 2016–17 and 2017–18, to identify optimum scheduling of alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWD) under different nitrogen levels on rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties. The treatments consisted of 3 irrigation regimes, i.e. recommended submergence of 2 to 5 cm water level, AWD irrigation when water level falls below 3 cm from soil surface in perforated pipe, AWD irrigation when water level falls below 5 cm from soil surface in perforated pipe, as main plot treatments; 3 nitrogen levels (120, 160 and 200 kg N/ha) as subplot treatments; and 2 rice varieties (‘KNM 118’ and ‘JGL 18047’) as sub-subplot treatments laid out in a split-split plot design with 3 replications. There was no significant difference in terms of growth, yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake and economics between rice varieties ‘KNM 118’ and ‘JGL 18047’ with continuous submergence, and alternate wetting and drying irrigation under different nitrogen levels during the winter (rabi) season. Irrigation maintained at recommended submergence of 2 to 5 cm water level resulted in higher growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield (7,123 kg/ha), straw yield (8,045 kg/ha), nutrient uptake and net returns (`57,202/ha), which were comparable with AWD irrigation when water level falls below 3 cm from soil surface in perforated pipe. Application of 200 kg N/ha ensued higher growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield (7,086 kg/ha), straw yield (7,907 kg/ha and net returns (`57,247/ha), which were at par with 160 kg N/ha.
Effect of irrigation schedule and herbicides application on growth and productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum) in semi-arid environment
Authors: K. LAKRA  , RAM PYARE  , SUNIL KUMAR VERMA  , RAJIV KUMAR SINGH  , PRAVIN KUMAR UPADHYAY  , VISHAL TYAGI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2017–18 and 2018–19 at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to study the influence of irrigation scheduling and weed-management practices on growth and productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 4 irrigation scheduling in main plot and 8 weed-management practices in subplots. Results revealed that, application of 5 irrigations at crown root initiation (CRI) + jointing + booting+ flowering + milking stage resulted in the maximum plant height (79.9 cm at harvest), crop dry-matter accumulation (385.1 g/running m at harvest), number of leaves [230/running m at 80 days after sowing (DAS)], leaf area index (2.60 at 60 DAS), crop growth rate (4.09 g/m2 /day between 40-80 DAS), relative growth rate (2.66 g/g/day between 40-80 DAS), net assimilation rate (0.59 g/cm2/day between 40-80 DAS) and the biological yield (6,899 kg/ha) over irrigation at CRI and active tillering stage and irrigation at CRI + jointing + booting, and it was statistically at par with irrigation at CRI + active tillering + booting + flowering stage. Among herbicidal treatments, significantly maximum value of crop-growth parameters and biological yield (7007 kg/ha) was recorded with the application of carfentrazone ethyl 20% + sulfosulfuron 25% WG @ 100 g a.i./ha at 35 days after sowing (DAS) followed by clodinafop- propargyl 15% + metsulfuron methyl 1% @ 400 g a.i./ha 35 DAS compared to the other herbicidal treatments. But hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS showed superiority to herbicidal treatments during both the years.
Enhancing hybrid maize (Zea mays) productivity, profitability and energetics through tillage and weed-management practices in Eastern India
Authors: ANSHUMAN NAYAK  , C.M. KHANDA  , S. DAS  , S.K. MOHANTY  , B.B. SAHOO  , B.S. NAYAK
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2017 and 2018 at Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station, Bhawanipatna of the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha, to study the effect of tillage and weed-management practices (WMPs) on weed-control efficiency (WCE), yield attributes, yield, economics and energetics of hybrid maize (Zea mays L.). The results revealed the minimum weed dry-matter production (4.9 g/m2 ) in conventional tillage (CT) followed by 5.5 g/m2 dry-matter in minimum tillage (MT) and 5.9 g/m2 in zero tillage (ZT) at 60 days after sowing (DAS). Among the WMPs, hand-weeding (HW) at 20 and 40 DAS and application of atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha followed by HW at 40 DAS resulted in significantly less weed dry weight with higher weed-control efficiency (WCE) at all the stages of growth. The CT recorded higher seed yield (4.78 t/ha), followed by MT and ZT. However, HW at 20 and 40 DAS resulted higher seed yield (5.76 t/ha) which was at par with application of atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha followed by (fb) HW at 40 DAS (5.07 t/ha). The seed yield in HW and atrazine-applied plots was 146 and 117% higher than the weedy check. Higher energy-use efficiency (EUE) and energy productivity with less specific energy and energy intensiveness were recorded in MT (7.40, 0.50 kg/MJ, 2.24 MJ/kg and 0.300 MJ/`) indicating, efficient energy utilization by MT than ZT and CT. Among WMPs, application of atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha fb HW at 40 DAS recorded EUE of 9.56, energy productivity of 0.65 kg/MJ, specific energy of 1.56 MJ/kg and energy intensiveness of 0.294 MJ/`.
Efficacy of p-hydroxy-phenyl-pyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) enzyme-inhibitive tembotrione and topramezone herbicides for weed-management in rainy season grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: ARVIND VERMA  , B. GANGAIAH  , V.A. TONAPI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season (kharif) of 2019 and 2020 at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan, to ascertain the weed-management efficacy of postemergence (PoE) tembotrione and topramezone at 25 days after sowing following pre-emergence (PE) atrazine in the kharif grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. Eight treatments (6 herbicidal along with weed-free and weedy check) were evaluated in randomized block design (RBD) with 3 replications. Results showed that, uncontrolled weeds have inflicted a grain, stover yield and net income penalty of 63.7, 55.5 and 69% over weed-free check (3.47, 12.34 t/ha and `135,216). Pre-emergence (PE) application of atrazine @ 0.5 kg a.i./ha was found to be the most promising herbicide in terms of benefit: cost ratio (5.76) despite having 12.4, 6.2, and 6.71% lower grain, stover and net income than weed-free treatment (5.03). Both PE and PoE application of atrazine did not bring any yield and profit gains over its PE application. Topramezone and tembotrione (PoE) controlled weeds as effective as weed-free treatment and their impacts persisted up to crop maturity. However, on account of crop phytotoxicity that is dependent on dose (2.83–5.17) severe yield losses (60 and 51.9% grain and stover) were recorded. Both tembotrione and topramezone at their higher dose (0.0242 and 0.0363 kg a.i./ha) resulted in at par grain yield (1.18 t/ha) as weedy check (1.26 t/ha).
Performance of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) under different land configurations, irrigation methods and schedules in sandy-loam soil
Authors: ADITI AGRAWAL  , SUBHASH CHANDRA  , GURVINDER SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field study was carried out during the winter (rabi) season of 2017–18 at the Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, to study the effect of different land configurations, irrigation methods and schedules on growth, yield and economics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). The results revealed that at maturity stage, plant height, branches/plant and 100-grain weight increased significantly in raised bed over flat-bed method of sowing. Plant dry-matter, pods/plant, grain weight/plant, grain and straw yields and net return and benefit: cost (B : C) ratio did not differ significantly due to land configuration treatment. Sprinkler irrigation resulted significant increase in growth characters (plant height, branches/plant and total plant dry-matter accumulation) and yield attributes (pods/plant, 100-grain weight and grain weight/plant), grain and straw yields and net return and B : C ratio as compared to check basin irrigation. Combination of sprinkler irrigation method and flat-bed sowing resulted in the highest grain yield (1,325 kg/ha). Under check basin irrigation, raised bed provided 7.8% higher grain yield than flat-bed method of sowing (1,083 kg/ha). Two irrigations at vegetative and pod-development stages resulted in significantly higher plant height, branches/plant, total dry-matter accumulation/plant, pods/ plant, grain weight/plant, grain yield and higher net returns and B : C ratio than single irrigation at either stage.
Response of summer mungbean (Vigna radiata) to phosphorus levels, biophos liquid biofertilizer and growth-regulator
Authors: ROSHAN KUMAWAT  , BALDEV RAM  , PRATAP SINGH  , J.P. TETARWAL  , RAJENDRA KUMAR YADAV  , ANIL KUMAR GUPTA  , ANJU BIJARNIA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2019 and 2020 at Agriculture Research Station, Agriculture University, Ummedganj, Kota, Rajasthan, to study the effect of phosphorus, liquid biofertilizer and growth-regulator on growth, yield and quality of summer mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. The experiment was conducted in split-split plot design with 4 phosphorus levels (P0 , P20, P30 and P40), biophos liquid fertilizer (without and with seed inoculation) in main plot and 3 salicylic acid (SA) levels (control, 75 and 100 ppm SA) in subplot at pre-flowering and poddevelopment stage, and replicated 3 times. The phosphorus level P30 being at par with P40 recorded significantly higher yield attributes of mungbean, viz. pod length, clusters/plant, pods/plant, seeds/pod, pod weight, test weight, seed (1,132 kg/ha), stover (1,988 kg/ha) and biological (3,120 kg/ha) yields as compared to the control and P20. Seed inoculation with biophos resulted in significantly higher yield attributes, seed (1,056 kg/ha), stover (1,850 kg/ ha) and biological (2,907 kg/ha) yields as compared to no-inoculation. Spray of 75 ppm SA, being at par with 100 ppm SA, recorded significantly higher yield attributes, seed (1,031 kg/ha), stover (1,806 kg/ha) and biological (2,838 kg/ha) yields as compared to control.
Performance of promising linseed (Linum usitatissimum) cultivars under zero-till condition in rice (Oryza sativa)–fallows of Eastern India
Authors: RAKESH KUMAR  , GOVIND MAKARANA  , J.S. MISHRA  , HANSRAJ HANS  , A.K. CHOUDHARY  , A.K. BISWAS  , PRAVIN KUMAR UPADHYAY  , UJJWAL KUMAR
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2017–18 and 2018–19 at the ICAR–Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, Bihar to identify the most suitable linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) cultivars/ lines in rice (Oryza sativa L.)–fallow system. Amongst the linseed cultivars, ‘Uma’ (1.28 t/ha) was noted at par with ‘RLC 143’ (1.21 t/ha) and showed significantly highest seed yield compared with the other tested cultivars. With respect to the economic feasibility, linseed cv. ‘Uma’ linseed being at par with ‘RLC 143’ and showed significantly highest gross returns (`51.3×103 /ha), net returns (`31.0 × 103 /ha), benefit: cost ratio (2.5) and economic efficiency (`240/ha/day) compared with rest of the cultivars. Thus, linseed cv. ‘Uma’ and ‘RLC 143’ exhibited a promising option to augment the productivity as well as profitability of rice–fallows areas of eastern India.
Efficacy of plant growth regulators on productivity, quality and profitability of berseem (Trifolium alexandrium)
Authors: A.K. DHAKA  , NAVISH KUMAR KAMBOJ  , SATISH KUMAR  , AKSHAY BHUKER  , GAURAV VERMA  , PRAKRITI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (Rabi) season of 2018–19 and 2019–20 at Agronomy Research Farm of the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana, Agricultural University, Hisar, Haryana, for evaluating various plant-growth regulating chemicals on quality-seed production of berseem or Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandrium L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design, replicated thrice with 8 foliar spray treatments, viz.; T1 , control; T2 , 2 sprays of water at weekly interval, starting from flower initiation; T3 , 2 sprays of potassium nitrate @ 2% at weekly interval; T4 , 1 spray of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm; T5 , 2 sprays of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm at weekly interval; T6 , 1 spray of potassium nitrate @ 2% followed by 1 spray of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm after 1 week interval; T7 , 2 sprays of potassium nitrate @ 2% alternatively sprayed with 2 sprays of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm; and T8 , 1 spray of cytokinins @ 50 ppm, applied at flower-initiation stage. The results revealed that, significantly higher yield attributes [capsules/m2 (304), seeds/capsule (50.5), seed weight/5 capsules (0.63 g), 1,000 seed weight (3.97 g)] and seed yield (4.45 q/ha) of berseem were recorded under T7 (2 sprays of potassium nitrate @ 2% alternatively sprayed with 2 sprays of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm) which was followed by (fb) T6 , (1 spray of potassium nitrate @ 2% fb 1 spray of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm alternatively at weekly interval). Thus, application of 2 sprays of potassium nitrate @ 2% alternatively sprayed with 2 sprays of salicylic acid @ 75 ppm at flowering stage may be recommended to farmers for getting sufficient green fodder in addition to higher recovery of quality seed in profitable manner from dual-purpose berseem.
Influence of fertilizer levels on productivity, seed quality and economics of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius)
Authors: D.P. PACHARNE  , T.J. BHOR  , D.V. DESHMUKH  , R.S. WAGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2017–2019 on medium black soils at Rahuri, Maharashtra, to find out the suitable dose of farmyard manure (FYM) along with chemical fertilizers for enhancing productivity, seed quality and economics of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with 4 replications The Factor-A comprised organic manure levels, i.e. M1 , control and M2 , FYM @ 5 t/ha, and Factor-B comprised 5 fertilizer doses (N : P : K kg/ha), i.e. F0 , control; F1 , 60 : 13 : 25 kg/ha; F2 , 60 : 26 : 50 kg/ha; F3 , 80 : 17.5 : 33.3 kg/ha; and F4 , 80 : 26 : 50 kg/ha, with 10 combinations of FYM and fertilizer doses with tossa jute variety ‘JRO 524’. The results indicated that, the application of FYM 5 t/ha recorded significantly higher seed yield (1.39 t/ha) than the control (1.24 t/ha) during pooled mean of 3 years. Similarly, it also ensued significantly higher net returns (` 77.6 × 103 /ha) and benefit : cost (2.43) than control as per pooled mean of 3 years. Tossa jute crop gave significantly higher seed yield (1.56 t/ ha) with 80 : 17.5 : 33.3 kg/ha of N : P : K than control, 60 : 13 : 25, 60 : 26 : 50 kg/ha, but it was at par with 80 : 26 : 50 kg/ha of level (N : P : K of in pooled mean of 3 years. A similar trend was recorded for growth and yield attributes. Application of N : P : K at 80 : 26 : 50 kg/ha recorded significantly higher net monetary returns (94.1 × 103 /ha) and benefit: cost (2.78) than rest of all treatments in pooled mean. On the basis of results, it can be concluded that the application of FYM (5 t/ha) along with fertilizer dose of 80 : 17.5 : 33.3 N : P : K kg/ha may be recommended for enhancement of production in seed yield, quality and economics of tossa jute on medium deep soil in kharif season.
Nitrogen-management options for different crop-establishment methods in wheat under rice (Oryza sativa)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: SUDARSHAN S.  , KAPILA SHEKHAWAT  , S.S. RATHORE  , RAJIV K. SINGH  , VIPIN KUMAR
Published: December 2023

The present investigation was carried out at the research farm of the Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi, during winter (rabi) season of 2020–21 where 4 nitrogen (N)-management practices were evaluated under 4 establishment methods in 3 times replicated split-plot design. The results exhibited that, the zero tillage+residue (ZT + R) application recorded significantly better growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield (4.99 t/ha), straw yield (8.03 t/ha) and economic returns (net B : C ratio of 2.01) of wheat over the other treatments. Among the Nmanagement options, LCC-guided N application resulted in significantly higher grain (5.39 t/ha) and straw yield (8.36 t/ha) and economic returns (net B : C ratio, 2.20) over the remaining treatments. Therefore, LCC-guided N application under ZT + R in wheat proved a better option for better growth, productivity and higher returns in wheat under RWS.
Performance of Kashmir basmati ‘Shalimar Sugandh 1’ rice (Oryza sativa) under different nitrogen levels and weed-management practices under temperate valley conditions
Authors: ROMAN NISSAR  , MANZOOR A GANAI  , ASHAQ HUSSAIN  , RAIES A. BHAT  , F.A. BAHAR
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during rainy season of 2018 at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Khudwani, Jammu and Kashmir, to study the response of ‘Shalimar Sugandh 1’ Kashmir basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) to different nitrogen levels. Three nitrogen levels (0, 45 and 90 kg N/ha) and 5 weed-management practices, including 3 herbicides, viz. florpyrauxifen-benzyl @ 31.25 ml/ha, penoxsulam @ 22.5 g/ha and pyrazosulfuron-ethyl @ 60 g/ha + pretilachlor @ 300 g/ha, were evaluated to ascertain the most effective nitrogen dose and herbicide in controlling weeds in Kashmir basmati (rice). The results depicted significantly higher growth, yield and yield-attributing characters in the treatment comprising nitrogen @ 90 kg/ha and penoxsulam @ 22.5 g/ha (10 days after transplanting).
Efficiency of post-emergence herbicides for enhancing growth and yield of hybrid maize (Zea mays) in Kandahar, Afghanistan
Authors: BURHANUDDIN WIQAR  , S.L. JAT  , C.M. PARIHAR  , B.N. MANDAL  , K.M. AHMADZAI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at research farm of the Afghanistan National Agricultural Science and Technology University (ANASTU), Kandahar, Afghanistan, in randomized complete- block (RCBD) design during summer 2017, to evaluate the effect of post-emergence (PoE) herbicides in maize (Zea mays L.). Results revealed that sequential application of atrazine @ 1,500 g/ha as pre-emergence followed by (fb) tembotrione @ 120 g/ha as post emergence (PoE) 25 days after sowing (DAS) recorded significantly higher plant height and leaf-area index at 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS), while dry-matter accumulation and the yield attributes as grains/row, grain/cob and grain weight/cob at harvesting stages. Weed infestation in hybrid maize caused 35.8% yield loss compared to weed-free control. Application of the weed-management treatments increased the maize yield by 35.2% (11.6 – 51.2) over unweeded check. Significantly higher grain yield (6.50 t/ha) was recorded with sequential application of atrazine (1,500 g/ha) as pre-emergence followed by tembotrione (120 g/ha) at 25 DAS, which was at par with pendimethalin (1,000 ml/ha) as pre-emergence followed by atrazine (750 g/ha) + 2,4-D amine (400 g/ha) at 25 DAS as PoE (6.21.3 t/ha) and atrazine (1,500 g/ha) as pre-emergence fb 2,4-D amine (400 g/ha) at 25 DAS (6.12 t/ha). Therefore, the sequential application of pre-and post-emergence herbicides could be opted for enhancing growth and yield and weed control of hybrid maize in Afghanistan and similar ecologies.
Effect of nitrogen fertilization on agro-physiological and quality parameters of dual-purpose wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: MEENAKSHI SANGWAN  , V.S. HOODA  , JAGDEV SINGH
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2015–16 and 2016–17 at the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, to study the impact of different nitrogen level and scheduling on crop performance, canopy temperature depression; nitrogen (N) content, N uptake and protein content of dualpurpose wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The results revealed that, cutting of wheat at 55 days after sowing with 10-cm-stubble height did not show canopy temperature depression and yield reduction. The maximum fresh forage yield (4,303 kg/ha) was reported either when full dose or 66.6% of the recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) was applied before cutting, but the maximum crop-growth rate (19.8 g/m2 /day), grain yield (3331 kg/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (1.99:1) were observed in treatment receiving 33.3% of the RDN before the cut and 66.6% after the cut. Highest nitrogen uptake (63.30 kg/ha), nitrogen content (1.9%) and protein content (11.14%) were observed when 75 kg N/ha was applied and which was scheduled 1/3rd at sowing and 2/3rd after the cut. Split application and after cut N application was effective in increasing wheat grain yield and grain protein content.
Production potential, soil health and economics of soybean (Glycine max)-linseed (Linum usitatissimum) cropping system under various nutrient-management protocols
Authors: A.B. SINGH  , B.P. MEENA  , B.L. LAKARIA  , J.K. THAKUR  , K. RAMESH  , P.S. RAJPUT  , A.K. PATRA
Published: December 2023

The field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2015 to winter (rabi) season of 2020–21 at the research farm of the ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil Science, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, to investigate the performance of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]-linseed [Linum usitatissimum (L.)] cropping sequence and its effect on soil health. The treatments consisted of 6 nutrient- management protocols, viz. 100% organic, 75% organic + innovative, 50% organic + 50% inorganic, 75% organic + 25% inorganic, 100% inorganic and state recommendations, laid out in a randomized block design with 4 replications in permanent plots. Soybean cv. ‘JS 335’ and linseed cv. ‘JL 9’ were grown with a recommended dose of N : P : K as 30 : 26.2 : 16.6 and 60 : 17.5 : 0 kg/ha respectively. Cattle dung manure (CDM), vermicompost and poultry manures were used to supply nitrogen in organic nutrient-management in 1 : 1 : 1 proportion and chemical fertilizers were applied as per treatments details. In the innovative practice, 10% vermiwash and 10% cow urine were sprayed at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS). In integrated nutrient-management, nitrogen (N) was supplied through organic sources and remaining amount of N was broadcasted through chemical fertilizer. The pooled data revealed that, the soybean and linseed yields were 18.5 and 12.7% higher under organic nutrient management than the inorganic practices. The integrated nutrientmanagement practices (50% organic + 50% organic) also registered 6.7 and 5.1% higher yield of soybean and linseed than the recommended dose of fertilizer application respectively. The organic nutrient-management was reflected as economically viable practice as evident from benefit : cost ratio. The organic nutrient-management also showed significant increase in soil organic carbon (SOC) and soil biological properties. Thus, the results indicated that the organic nutrient-management improved the soil health and increased the crop yield of soybean-linseed cropping system.
Crop-management practices influence weed dynamics, yield and economics of soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: S.N. MEENA  , S.K. SHARMA  , PRATAP SINGH  , CHAMAN K. JADON  , M.L. JAT  , R.L. MEENA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 2018 and 2019 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan, to study the effect of crop-management practices on weed dynamics, yield and economics of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 4 replications, comprising 5 treatments of different crop-management practices, viz. conservation organic, conservation chemical, conventional chemical, organic management + conventional tillage and package of practices. The results showed that, conservation chemical was found the most effective in controlling total weeds (5.5 m2 ) and reduction of dry-matter accumulation by weeds (24.8 kg/ha) as compared to the package of practices, conventional chemical, conservation organic and organic management + conventional tillage at 30 days after sowing (DAS). However, at 45 DAS, conservation organic was the most effective in controlling total weeds (5.9 m2 ) and reduction of dry-matter accumulation by weeds (35.9 kg/ha) as compared to organic management + conventional tillage, conservation chemical, package of practices and conventional chemical on pooled basis. Significantly higher seed (1,850 kg/ha), haulm (2,824 kg/ha), net returns (`48,913/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (3.2) of soybean were recorded under conservation chemical followed by package and practices and conventional chemical.
Productivity, profitability and soil sustainability of small-holding farming system through suitable cropping systems
Authors: L.J. DESAI  , K.M. PATEL  , P.K. PATEL  , V.K. PATEL
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the Centre for Research on Integrated Farming Systems, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat, during 2016–17 to 2018–19, to study the effect of different cropping system as component of small-holding farming systems of North Gujarat. Total 8 cropping systems were evaluated based on system productivity, system profitability and possible viability. The pooled result of 3 years experiments indicated that, pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]–potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)– groundnut (Arachis hypgaea L.) cropping system recorded significantly higher groundnut-equivalent yield (8.65 t/ ha) and same trend was observed in cropping sequences for system productivity (23.70 kg/ha/day), system profitability (` 613/ha/day) and net profit (` 223,610/ha), which was at par with groundnut– potato–pearlmillet (` 203,605/ha) and Bt. cotton (HDP) (Gossypium sp.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)–fodder sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] (` 192,540/ha) cropping sequence. The crop sequence castor (Ricinus communis L.)-all in greengram [Vigna radiate (L.) R. Wilczek] recorded the highest benefit : cost ratio (1.83), while Bt. cotton + sunhemp (Crotalaria juncea L.) (incorporation at flowering stage)-castor–bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) generated the maximum employment generation (303 man-days/year), followed by Bt. cotton (HDP) + wheat–fodder sorghum (259 man-days/year).
Effect of tillage and herbicides on growth, weed control and energetics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) grown in sequence with sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
Authors: TONY MANOJ KUMAR N.  , A.R. SHARMA
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during 2019–20 on sandy clay-loam soil at the Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of tillage and herbicides on growth, weed control, economics and energetics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Treatments included 3 tillage, viz. zero-tillage (ZT), ZT along with sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] residue (ZT + R) and conventional tillage (CT), in main plot; and 4 weed-management practices, viz. pendimethalin alone, pendimethalin followed by (fb) clodinafop-propargyl + Na-acifluorfen, pendimethalin fb hand-weeding and unweeded check, in subplots. Chickpea growth and development was higher under ZT + R, which led to higher grain yield, economics, and energetics. Net returns under ZT + R were 13.5% more than ZT but 36.7% more than CT. Chickpea grown under ZT and ZT + R with pendimethalin fb clodinafop + Na-acifluorfen was 32.7–43.5% more energy-efficient than the same treatment under CT. This study indicated that chickpea grown after sorghum under ZT + R with pendimethalin fb clodinafop + Na-acifluorfen was economical and energy-efficient apart from providing higher grain yield in Bundelkhand region.
Consequence of Sesbania as brown manure along with foliar spray of iron and zinc sulphate on production potential of direct-seed rice (Oryza sativa) in calcareous soil
Authors: S.K. CHAUDHARY  , DHARMINDAR  , S.P. SINGH  , R.K. JHA  , KAUSHAL KISHOR  , RAJAN KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during the rainy (kharif) season of 2017–18 and 2018–19 at the Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar, to introduce the foliar spray of micro-nutrients along with Sesbania based brown manuring (BM) to enhance productivity of dry direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 6 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments included foliar spray of FeSO4 (1%) and ZnSO4 (0.5%) alone and in combination with Sesbania brown manuring. The Sesbania sown broadcast on the same day along with rice for brown manuring (BM) at the seed rate of 40 kg/ ha that, BM with Sesbania treatments resulted in higher values of yield characters and yield than non-BM treatments. The treatment involving 2 foliar sprays of FeSO4 and ZnSO4 along with BM significantly increased the yield attributes like panicles/m2 , grains/panicles, and grain and straw yields of rice over the other treatment except rice + BM. This treatment also recorded the maximum uptake of nutrients, viz, N,P,K,Fe and Zn. The mmaximum benefit: cost ratio was also recorded under this treatment. The maximum weed dry weight was recorded with treatment rice alone and the lowest with treatment rice + FeSO4 @ 1% + ZnSO4 @ 0.5% at tillering and panicle initation + BM.
Effect of biochar levels and integrated nutrient-management practices on agro-physiological performance and productivity of maize (Zea mays)
Authors: B.A. GUDADE  , G.C. MALIK  , ANUP DAS  , SUBHASH BABU  , AMIT KUMAR  , R. SINGH  , INGUDAM BHUPENCHANDRA
Published: December 2023

The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design, during the pre-rainy season of 2018 and 2019 at ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hills Region, Umiam, Meghalaya, to study the effect of biochar and integrated nutrient management practices on agro-physiological performance and productivity of maize (Zea mays L.). comprising 4 treatments, viz. B1 , (Control); B2 , (5 t/ha biochar); B3 , (10 t/ha biochar); B4 , (15 t/ha biochar) in factor A and factor B having 3 integrated nutrient-management (INM) practices NM1 [(100% recommended, viz. dose of nitrogen (RDN)]; NM2 [(75% RDN + 25% FYM)]; NM3 (50% RDN + 50% FYM), in 3 replications. The results showed that an application of biochar @ 15 t/ha resulted in significantly higher plant height (171.4 and 177.1 cm) and dry-matter accumulation (393.1 and 401.5 g/plant) at harvesting stage, leaf area index (LAI) at 60 days after sowing (4.78 and 4.85) and 90 days after sowing (DAS) (5.45 and 5.52), crop-growth rate (CGR) at 30–60 days after sowing (37.3 and 38 g/m2/day). This treatment also resulted in significantly higher kernel/cob (267.8 and 275.8), rows/cob (20.7 and 21), kernel/row (19.9 and 21.8), kernel (4.43 and 4.49 t/ha) and stover yield (7.02 and 7.07 t/ha), total nitrogen uptake (141.8 and 140.4 kg/ha), total phosphorus uptake (23.8 and 23.6 kg/ha), total potassium uptake (115.9 and 114 kg/ha) and gross returns (102,664 and 104,023 `/ha) in 2018 and 2019 as compared to the other treatments. In the case of INM practices, significantly higher plant height (161.6 cm) and drymatter accumulation at the harvesting stage (367.2 g/plant), leaf area index at 60 days after sowing (4.60) and 90 days after sowing (5.23), crop growth rate (34 g/m2 /day) at 30–60 days after sowing, kernels/cob (234.9), rows/cob (18.4), kernel/row (19.0), kernel (4.15 t/ha) and stover yield (6.56 t/ha), total nitrogen uptake (125.6 kg/ha), total phosphorus uptake (21.4 kg/ha), total potassium uptake (100.7 kg/ha) and gross return (95,931 `/ha) were noticed under 75% RDN + 25% FYM during the first year, while during the second year significantly higher plant height (167.6 cm) and dry-matter accumulation at harvesting stage (375.7 g/plant), leaf area index at 60 days after sowing (4.69) and 90 days after sowing (5.31), crop growth rate (35.2 g/m2 /day) at 30–60 days after sowing, kernels/ cob (241.0), rows/cob (18.7), kernel/row (20.8), kernel (4.25 t/ha) and stover yield (6.63 t/ha), total nitrogen uptake (125.1 kg/ha), total phosphorus uptake (21.5 kg/ha) and total potassium uptake (99.1 kg/ha) were recorded under 50% RDN + 50% FYM than the control, but gross returns (95,931 `/ha) were noticed under 75% RDN + 25 FYM. The best alternative choice for maize production in the India Himalayan area or other similar ecoregions may be the use of biochar @ 15 t/ha together with the concomitant application of 50% RDN + 50% FYM.
Nutrient management in maize (Zea mays) under shifting cultivation for higher productivity and sustainability in North-East India
Authors: G.I. RAMKRUSHNA  , JAYANTA LAYEK  , ANUP DAS  , B.C. VERMA  , SANTANU DAS  , K.P. MOHAPATRA  , S.V. NGACHAN
Published: December 2023

A participatory field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2015 and 2016 at farmer’s land of Meghalaya, to identify suitable maize (Zea mays L.) varieties and nutrient-management practices for higher maize productivity under shifting cultivation (jhum). The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with treatment combination of 3 maize cultivars, viz. ‘JKMH 502’ (Hybrid), ‘RCM 61A’ (Composite) and ‘Saru Bhoi’ (Local), and 5 nutrient-management practices, viz. N1, farmers’ practice (no manure or fertilizer application); N2 , 50% of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (40, 20 and 20 kg N, P2 O5 and K2 O/ha) + FYM 2 t/ha + 500 kg lime/ha in furrow; N3 , fertilizer + FYM (50% N from each source to supply 40, 20 and 20 kg N, P2 O5 and K2 O/ha) + 500 kg lime/ha in furrow; N4 , maize + groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) intercropping (4 : 2 ratio) with N3 ; and N5, foliar spray of diammonium phosphate (DAP) @ 2% at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) with N1 . Among the cultivars, the composite cultivar ‘RCM 61A’ produced higher number of rows/cob (13), seeds/cob (271.2), seed weight/cob (67.2 g) and test weight (247.4 g) than hybrid and local cultivars. However, among the nutrient-management practices, N2 treatment resulted in significantly higher grain yield, straw yield and harvest index than N1. The soil fertility in terms of SOC, available N, P2 O5 and K2 O were significantly higher under treatment N4 . Thus, cultivation of maize composite (‘RCM 61A’) and adoption of maize + groundnut intercropping (4 : 2 ratio) along with application of fertilizer + FYM (50% N from each for total supply of 40, 20 and 20 kg N, P2 O5 and K2 O/ha + 500 kg lime) is a profitable practices for improving maize productivity in jhum lands and sustaining soil health.
Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and quality parameter of winter maize (Zea mays)-summer sesame (Sesamum indicum) cropping sequence in middle Gujarat condition
Authors: ZALAK Y. CHAUHAN  , S.N. SHAH  , ASHISH RAJA JANGID  , MONIKA CHOUDHARY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at College Agronomy Farm, Bansilal Amrutlal College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, during the winter (rabi) and summer seasons 2019–20 and 2020–21, to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on yield of rabi maize (Zea mays L.) and its residual effect on succeeding summer sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under irrigated condition. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 12 treatments and 3 replications. Application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + 25% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through vermicompost + NPK consortium (soil application) resulted in the higher grain (5,742 kg/ha) and strover yield (8,518 kg/ha) as well as protein content (11.18%) maize crop. In succeeding sesame crop, residual effect of 75% RDF + 25% RDN through FYM + NPK consortium (soil application) along with 50% RDF (50 : 25 : 00 N : P : K kg/ha) recorded higher grain (1081 kg/ha) and stalk yield (2,370 kg/ha) along with oil content (47.77%) of crop.
Production potential of sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) for biomass, grain yield and bio-fuel under variable nutrient environment in north-west India
Authors: MANINDER KAUR  , HARPREET KAUR OBEROI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at the fodder research farm of the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2019 and 2020, to assess the relative performance of sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] genotypes under different fertility levels. Three sweet sorghum genotypes tested were: ‘SPV 2530’, ‘CSV 19SS’ and ‘CSV 24SS’ at 3 fertility levels, i.e. 60 : 30 : 30, 80 : 40 : 40 and 100 : 50 : 50 kg N : P2 O5 : K2 O/ha. All the treatment combinations were replicated thrice in a factorial randomized block design. The variations in terms of growth and ethanol yield were observed among 3 genotypes, with the sweet sorghum genotype ‘CSV 19SS’ having the best performance, especially in ethanol yield and gave significantly highest potential ethanol yield of 1,490 L/ha. The application of 100 : 50 : 50 kg N:P:K/ha resulted in the best growth response and recorded significantly maximum ethanol yield of 1,417 L/ha. However, fertilizer rate as low as 80 : 40 : 40 kg N : P : K/ha produced potential ethanol yield which was statistically at par as produced with the highest fertility level. Hence, 80 : 40 : 40 kg N : P : K/ha would also result in reasonable performance of the crop in the areas of this study, especially under favourable environmental conditions.
Integrated nutrient management effects on yield, nutrient uptake and economics of soybean (Glycine max)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system
Authors: D.M. RANSING  , G.S. TOMAR
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 2014–15 and 2015–16 at Research-cum Instructional Farm of the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to examine the interactive effects of organic manure and inorganic fertilizers on the yield, nutrient uptake and economics of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping system. Treatments comprised 4 nutrient sources, viz. control, wheat-crop residues @ 5 t/ha, FYM @ 5 t/ha, poultry manure @ 2.5 t/ha in main plots, and 5 levels of fertilizer, viz. control, 50% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 100% RDF, 50% RDF + Zn @ 5 kg/ha and 100% RDF+ Zn @ 5 kg/ha, to soybean in subplots, and in the case of wheat the residual effect of previous 4 treatments in main plots and 5 nutrient levels, viz. control, 50% RDF, 100% RDF, 50% RDF + Zn @ 5 kg/ha, and 100% RDF + Zn @ 5 kg/ha, were tested in split-plot design with 3 replications. Results revealed that, among different nutrient sources, poultry manure @ 2.5 t/ha significantly resulted in the highest grain (2.20 t/ha and 2.84 t/ha) and straw yield (4.27 t/ha and 6.00 t/ha), net return (72,215 `/ha) and benefit : cost ratio (5.49). Among various nutrient levels, application of 100% RDF along with Zn @ 5 kg/ha significantly recorded the highest grain (2.28 t/ha and 2.99 t/ha) and straw yield (4.30 t/ha and 6.14 t/ha) and economic returns (72,370 `/ha) as well as improved the available nutrient status (N 220.50 and 212.10 kg/ha, P2 O5 22.54 and 21.69 kg/ha, K2 O 326.85 and 322.09 kg/ ha) after the harvest of soybean (N 220.50, N 22.54 and k20 326.85) and wheat (N 212.10 kg/ha, p 21.62 k20 322009) crops as compared to all other treatments.
Productivity and profitability of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)-based intercropping systems under diverse nutrient management practices in rainfed condition
Authors: NEERAJ KUMAR  , ATIK AHAMAD  , ROBIN KUMAR  , A.K. SINGH  , SAMBHOO PRASAD  , A.K. BAHELIYA  , GAJRAJ YADAV
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Farm, Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, on silty loam soil during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2014–2018, to study the productivity and profitability of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]-based intercropping under divers nutrient management in rainfed condition. The experiment consisted of 3 intercropping, viz. C1, pigeonpea sole; C2 , pigeonpea + blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]; and C3 , pigeonpea + maize (Zea mays L.); and 4 practices nutrient management, viz. N1 , recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF); N2 , RDF + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) + Rhizobium; N3 , RDF + PSB + Rhizobium + FYM @ 3 t/ha; and N4 , RDF + PSB + Rhizobium + FYM @ 3 t/ha + Harit-Vardan @ 5 kg/ha. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized-block design with 3 replications. Results revealed that, pigeonpea + blackgram system, showed higher yield of pigeonpea (1.71 t/ha), pigeonpea-equivalent yield (2.29 t/ha), rain water-use efficiency, (5.84 kg/ha-mm), organic carbon (0.33 %), available N (164.92 kg/ha), P (18.74 kg/ha), K (245.08 kg/ha) and S (11.30 ppm) and microbial population in cfu/g dry soil, and dehydrogenase activity (17.49 μg TPF/g/h), net returns (61.15 × 103 `/ha), benefit: cost ratio (2.06) than pigeonpea sole and pigeonpea + maize systems. The combined application of RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + FYM @ 3 t/ha + Harit-Vardan @ 5 kg/ha proved effective and resulted in significantly higher pigeonpea grain yield (1.65 t/ ha), pigeonpea-equivalent yield (2.16 t/ha), rain water-use efficiency (4.94 kg/ha-mm), organic carbon (0.34%), available N (161.59 kg/ha), P (18.37 kg/ha), K (241.96 kg/ha) and S (11.92 ppm) and microbial population and dehydrogenase activity (15.56 μg TPF/g/h) and net returns as compared to RDF alone. However, higher net returns (55.4 × 103 `/ha) per rupee investment were recorded in combined application of RDF + Rhizobium + PSB + FYM @ 3 t/ha + Harit-Vardan @ 5 kg/ha. The pigeonpea + blackgram intercropping and combined application of FYM @ 3 t/ha along with RDF + Rhizobium + PSB improved the organic carbon and increased available N, P and K content in the soil over initial soil value.