Effect of integrated use of nitrogen on the performance of maize (Zea mays L.) on haplustalfs of sub-humid southern plains of Rajasthan

A field experiment was conducted during kharif 1995 to investigate the efficacy of integrated nitrogen management in maiie crop, involving three sources of N (chemical fertilizer, organic manure and chemical fertilizer + organic manure), three levels of N [50, 75 and 100 per cent (90 kg N ha−1) of the recommended dose) und two levels of seed inoculation (with and without Azotobacter inoculation). The maize crop variety Navjot was grown on haplustalfs of Udaipur. Application of N up to 90 kg N ha-1 through biogas slurry alone or in integration with chemical fertilizer on equal N basis (1:1) as well as seed inoculation with Azotobacter significantly increased the yield attributes, grain and stover yields and uptake of nutrients by maize. The available nutrient status of the soil after the harvest of maize crop was higher from the plot receiving N through organic manure which was closely followed by the treatment receiving integrated use of chemical and organic indicating a rational way to sustain the crop productiop.