Effect of zinc and FYM on productivity and nutrient availability in maize (Zea mays)linseed (Linum usitatissimum) cropping sequence

A field experiment consisting of eight treatments was conducted for 3 consecutive years from 2003-04 to 2005-06 in randomized block design with three replications at Palampur to study the effect of zinc with and with- out farmyard manure (FYM) on production, economics and nutrient status of soil in maize ( Zea mays L.) - linseed ( Linum usitatissimum L.) crop sequence. The soil of the experimental field was medium in zinc content. The re- sults revealed that application of Zn through ZnSO @ 25 kg/ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize recorded 4 significantly higher growth parameters and yield attributes of linseed crop, resulting in significantly more linseed and linseed equivalent yield (61.3 and 52.9%, respectively). Application of ZnSO @ 25 kg/ha + FYM 5 t/ha to 4 maize crop was also proved to be equally effective on maize and recording significantly higher tillers/plant, branches/plant and capsules/plant of linseed crop. On system basis, significantly higher net returns obtained with the application of ZnSO @ 25 kg/ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize. Application of ZnSO @ 25 kg/ 4 4 ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize and application of ZnSO @ 25 kg/ha + FYM 5 t/ha to maize behaved