Comparative Performance of Groundnut-Cumin and Clusterbean-Cumin Cropping Systems under Foliar Application of Panchgavya in Western Rajasthan

Abstract

The field trials on groundnut-cumin and clusterbean~cumin systems were conducted during three seasons (2006,2007 and 2008) at the Regional Research Station, CAZRI, Jaisalmer, to determine productivity and profitability of two cropping systems under foliar application of panchgavya and 1:1 solution of panchgavya plus leaf extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica), datura (Datura metel) and tumba (Citrullus coloCljnthis). The results showed that foliar application of neem plus panchgavya at branching and flowering increased yield of crops in both the cropping systems. The increase in yield in clusterbean and cumin was 64 arid 199%,respectively, under clusterbean-cumin system over application ofwater (control) at flowering. While groundnut and cumin yield was 118 and 156% higher, respectively, under groundnut-cumin system. In comparison to clusterbean-cumin system, higher cumin equivalent yield was recorded under groundnut-cumin system with neem + pan(;hgavya (1259 kg ha-1 ) followed by tumba + panchgavya (1068 kg ha-1). In monetary terms, however, clusterbean-cumin system recorded 10%higher net return than groundnut-cumin system (Rs.62,628ha-1 )with neem plus.panchgavya. Clusterbean-cumin system recorded 34% higher net returns than groundnut-cumin system (Rs. 52,666 ha-1) with dual application of the foliar sources both at branching and flowering. The clusterbean-cumin system also recorded higher benefit: cost (2.41) compared to groundnut-cumin system (1.61) with neem + panchgavya. Key words: Groundnut, cumin, clusterbean, cropping systems, panchgavya.