Influence of varieties, dates of planting, spacing and nitrogen levies on growth, yield and quality of turmeric (Curcuma longa)

A study was conducted for 2 years indicated that variety 'BSR 2' out yielded 'BSR 1 '. On an average 5.75 tonnedha of dry yield was recorded by 'BSR 2' which was 1 1.7% higher than 'BSR 1 '. Early planting at 15 May gave more growth, yield and better quality. The dry recovery of 15 May planted crop was 18.4 and 18.7% that was higher by 12.9 and 20.3% during first year and 1 1.3 and 27.2% in second year than 15 June and 15 July planted crops respectively. Similiarly, curcumin content of 15 May planted crop was 4.0% in both the years was higher by 8.1 and 29.0% in first year and 5.3 25.0% in second year than late plantings, i e 15 June and 15 July respectively. Closer planting gave more yield by 9.1 33.6% in first year and 1 1.5 and 30% higher in the second year than the medium and wider spacing respectively however, spacing did not influence the quality, i e dry recovery curcumin content. Higher dose of N gave dry yield of 5.7 tonne/ha and 6.3 tonne/ha in first and second years respectively which was mare than yield recorded in lower levels 011 N and N levels had no conspicuous effect on as that of spacing.