Effect of different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrient sources on productivity and profitability of fenugreek (Trigonella-foenium-graecum)

Abstract

A field experiment on effect of different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrient sources on productivity and profitability of fenugreek (Trigonella-foenium-graecum) was laid out during rabi season of 2010-11.The experiment comprising of absolute control and varying proportion of organic and inorganic sources viz.,recommended dose of nutrient through fertilizers(40:45:0),100 % poultry manure, 100% vermicompost, 50% RDF+50%poultry manure, 50% RDF+50%vermicompost, 25%RDF+75% poultry manure and 25%RDF+75% vermicompost was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The organic sources and fertilizers were applied before sowing and as per standard practices, respectively. It was found that RDF and varying combinations of organic and inorganic sources produced significantly higher grain yield over absolute control. Recommended dose of nutrients produced significant higher yield over organic manures (vermicompost and poultry manures). Application of recommended dose of nutrients supplied through chemical fertilizers resulted in highest grain yield (27.75 q/ha), gross return (Rs 69375/ha), net return (Rs 50150/ha) and BCR (3.60) closely followed by 50% RDF + 50 % vermicompost /poultry manure. Thus, it can be inferred that application of 50% RDF along with 50% vermicompost /poultry manure is better for realizing good soil health and sustainable higher yield levels.