Author: Pankaj Patel, Prakash Ghodeshwar, Avadhesh Singh Choudhary and Navneet Satankar
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The present study “Impact of integrated nutrient management on the yield of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. walp)” was investigated in a study conducted at Sardar Patel University Instructional Farm during 2021-2022. Various combinations of INM treatments were applied, evaluating their effects on different yield attributes of cowpea. The experiment utilized a Randomized Block design with three replications and eight treatment combinations. Observations were made on parameters including the number of pods per plant, pod length, seed count per pod, test weight, seed yield per plant, seed yield per plot, seed yield per hectare, stover yield per hectare, and harvest index. The results demonstrated a significant positive impact of INM treatments on cowpea yield attributes. Application of 100% Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) @ 25:50:25 kg NPK/ha (T2) exhibited superior results compared to control and other INM combinations, showing increased pod formation, longer pod length, higher seed count per pod, better test weight, and enhanced seed yield per plant, plot, and hectare. The balanced nutrient supply from INM treatments, particularly the optimal combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, played a crucial role in supporting vegetative growth, improving photosynthesis, and enhancing seed production in cowpea. The findings underscore the significance of a well-balanced INM strategy in optimizing cowpea productivity while potentially promoting soil health through enhanced organic matter incorporation. The key challenge of study is exploring INM effects on cowpea yield highlighted challenges in soil variations, climate impact, and sustainable agricultural practices.
Integrated Nutrient Management, Cowpea Yield, Yield Attributes, Vermicompost, Cowpea, FYM
The observed increases in various yield attributes can be attributed to the balanced supply of essential nutrients provided by the INM treatments. These treatments ensured optimal levels of nutrients crucial for cowpea plant growth and development, leading to enhanced productivity. Additionally, the incorporation of organic amendments like vermicompost and FYM contributed to improved soil fertility, supporting healthy plant growth and resulting in better yield attributes. The application of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) at a specific ratio, particularly the treatment involving 100% RDF at 25:50:25 kg NPK/ha (T2), exhibited superior performance across multiple parameters. This treatment consistently outperformed the control (T1) and demonstrated comparable results with other INM treatments involving a mix of reduced chemical fertilizers and organic amendments like vermicompost and farmyard manure (FYM).
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