Influence of Rice Husk and Fertility Levels on the Growth and Yield of Wetland Paddy ( Oryza sativa L.)

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season 1999, to evaluate influence of rice husk and fertility levels on the growth and yield of rice (Oryza stiva L.). Application of rice husk at 9 tons ha−1 significantly increased the plant height and number of tillers hill, while fertility levels (120, 60, 40, 20 kg N, P, K, and ZNSo4 ha−1 respectively) significantly improved plant height, number of tillers hill−1 dry matter accumulation, chlorophyll content and leaf area index. Rice husk and fertility levels had a significant and positive effect on grain and straw yield. Highest grain yield (44.05 q ha−1) was obtained with 9 tons husk ha−1 which was 8.0% higher than that obtained in control. In case of fertility levels, highest dose (120, 60, 40, 20 kg of N, P, K and ZnSO4 respectively) resulted in 44.4% greater grain yield than control (34.66 q ha−1). The benefit cost ratio of the rice crop was the highest for 9 tons ha−1 rice husk (0.65) and application of 120, 60,40, 20 kg N, P, K and ZNS04 ha−1 (0.63).