Residue-management practices using fly ash and various crop residues for productivity of rice (Oryza sativa)–wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system under limited moisture conditions

A field experiment was conducted at the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, R.S. Pura, Jammu, during 2001–03, to evaluate the effect of fly ash and residue incorporation on the productivityand soil health in rice (Oryza sativa L.) - wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) cropping system under limited moisture conditions. Incorporation of residues of rice in wheat and wheat in rice not only increased the yield and yield components of rice and wheat but also increased the nutrient uptake besides improving the physico- chemical and biological properties of the soil which provide better soil environment for growth. Alternatively the incorporation of fly ash and left-over stubbles of previous crops as residues were found equally effective in increasing the productivity and soil environment in rice–wheat cropping system.For quick and better decomposition the application of Trichoderma viride + 20 kg N/ha as starter dose influenced the yield, available nutrients, microbial population and physical poperties of the soil significantly compared with no starter dose application.