SYSTEM PRODUCTIVITY AND SOIL STATUS WITH DIFFERENT NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT OPTIONS IN SORGHUM (FODDER)-POTATO-CHICKPEA CROPPING SYSTEM

Abstract

: In order to increase system productivity and sustaining soil health, a field experiment was conducted during 2003-06 at CPRI Campus, Modipuram for identifying best nutrient management option for sorghum (fodder)-potato-chickpea cropping system. The highest system productivity (potato equivalent yield) was recorded in treatment receiving 100% NPK along with S and Zn supplied through inorganic fertilizers. In the initial year, application of S and Zn over 100% recommended NPK did not show any effect on productivity, but in latter years crops responded to these elements. Productivity remained consistently low in all the three years in treatment supplied with 100% NPK through organic manures. However, over the years a 21.0% increase in PEY was recorded in 100% organic treatment. The organic carbon content and microbial biomass carbon was higher in treatments receiving organic manures and crop residue, whereas mineral N content did not show any consistent result. In comparison with inorganic treatment, the NO3-N content was much lower in upper layer of profile in organic treatment.