Effect of integrated nutrient management modules on yield and soil properties of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)

A field experiments was conducted during rabi 2006–2007 and 2007–2008 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management modules applied to mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czernj and Coss.) on seed yield and soil properties. The study revealed that higher values of growth parameters, viz. number of branches, plant height, yield attributes, seed (1857 and 1760 kg ha-1) and stover (6491 and 6150 kg ha-1) yield of mustard were recorded in plots receiving 75% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) + 5 t FYM ha-1 + 10 kg Zn ha-1+ 25 kg S ha-1+ Azotobacter, whichwas followed by 75% RDF + 5 t FYM ha-1 + 10 kg Zn ha-1 + 25 kg S ha-1 during both the years, respectively. A saving of inorganic fertilizers to the extent of 25% was recorded with the use of 5 t,10 t FYM or 25kg S ha-1 without reduction in seed yield of mustard. Application of 75% RDF + 5 t FYM ha-1 + 10 kg Zn ha-1 + 25 kg S ha-1 + Azotobacter recordedon an average maximum gross andnet return of ‘ 41560 and ‘ 24081 ha-1, respectively, but benefit: cost ratio was highest in 100% RDF (1.50), followed by the above combination. The latter treatment, viz. incorporation of FYM, zinc, sulphur and Azotobacter along with either 75% or 50% RDF increased soil organic carbon, available N, P, K, S and Zn besides improving soil physical properties.