Productivity, nutrient uptake, soil fertility and economies as affected by chemical fertilizers and farmyard manure in broccoli (Brassica oleracea var italica) in an Entisol

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during summer seasons of 1998 and 1999 at Research Station, Leo, Kinnaur to study the response of broccoli Brassica oleracea var italica to integrated use of chemical fertilizers and farmyard manure. The study consisted of 8 treatments, namely 0,50.75, 100, 125, 150% of recommended dose of NPK along with farmyard manure at 20 tonnes/ha, 100% NPK alone and the control. Yield attributing traits and marketable yield of broccoli increased linearly with increasing levels of NPK during both the years. Nutrient uptake and soil fertility build up followed almost similar trend. An application of 150% NPK + 20 tonnes farmyard manure/ha registered the highest increase in the contents of organic carbon, available N, P and K to the tune of 30.2,44.7, 136.3 and 38.6%, respectively over their initial status. Maximum marketable yield (13.63 tonnes/ha) was recorded under 150% NPK plus farmyard manure at 20 tonnes/ha. Application of farmyard manure @ 20 tonnes/ha registered an increase of about 12% yield at 100% NPK plus farmyard manure at 20 tonnes/ha was compared with the 100% NPK alone. Yield recorded at 75% NPK along with 20 tonnes farmyard manure/ha was at par with 100% NPK alone, thereby resulting in a saving of 37 kg N, 10.9 kg P and 10 k/ha fertilizers. Maximum net returns (Rs 132 220/ha) were recorded in 150% NPK + 20 tonnes farmyard manure/ha with benefit : cost ratio of 3.27.