Influence of different organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on maize (Zea mays)

A field experiment was conducted at Breeder Seed Production farm of Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, during the rainy ( kharif) seasons of 2011 and 2012, to find out most efficient and economic combination of different organic and inorganic sources of nutrients to increase the productivity of hybrid maize ( Zea mays L.) with- out deteriorating the soil qualities. Integrated application of 25% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) with biofertilizers ( Azotobacter chroococcum + phosphate-solubilizing bacteria), green-manuring with sunhemp ( Crotalaria juncea L.) and incorporation of compost @ 10 tonnes/ha improved soil physico-chemical properties, viz. pH, bulk density and infiltration rate, and the nutrient status of soil in respect of organic carbon, available N and available P. Maize grain yield was increased by 252.38% over the control and 147.62% over application of 100% RDF with combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, which was 7.4 tonnes/ha with highest gross re- turns ( 95.9 103/ha) and net returns ( 54.2 103/ha). Maximum benefit: cost ratio (1.30) was also observed in combined use of 25% RDF, compost, biofertilizers and green manuring and it was followed by application of 100% RDF (1.26), which was responsible for deterioration of nutrient status of soil.