Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur (AP)

The Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) was established on 12th June 1964 at Hyderabad. The University was formally inaugurated on 20th March 1965 by Late Shri. Lal Bahadur Shastri, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India. Another significant milestone was the inauguration of the building programme of the university by Late Smt. Indira Gandhi,the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India on 23rd June 1966. The University was renamed as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University on 7th November 1996 in honour and memory of an outstanding parliamentarian Acharya Nayukulu Gogineni Ranga, who rendered remarkable selfless service for the cause of farmers and is regarded as an outstanding educationist, kisan leader and freedom fighter. HISTORICAL MILESTONE Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) was established under the name of Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) on the 12th of June 1964 through the APAU Act 1963. Later, it was renamed as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University on the 7th of November, 1996 in honour and memory of the noted Parliamentarian and Kisan Leader, Acharya N. G. Ranga. At the verge of completion of Golden Jubilee Year of the ANGRAU, it has given birth to a new State Agricultural University namely Prof. Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University with the bifurcation of the state of Andhra Pradesh as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014. The ANGRAU at LAM, Guntur is serving the students and the farmers of 13 districts of new State of Andhra Pradesh with renewed interest and dedication. Genesis of ANGRAU in service of the farmers 1926: The Royal Commission emphasized the need for a strong research base for agricultural development in the country... 1949: The Radhakrishnan Commission (1949) on University Education led to the establishment of Rural Universities for the overall development of agriculture and rural life in the country... 1955: First Joint Indo-American Team studied the status and future needs of agricultural education in the country... 1960: Second Joint Indo-American Team (1960) headed by Dr. M. S. Randhawa, the then Vice-President of Indian Council of Agricultural Research recommended specifically the establishment of Farm Universities and spelt out the basic objectives of these Universities as Institutional Autonomy, inclusion of Agriculture, Veterinary / Animal Husbandry and Home Science, Integration of Teaching, Research and Extension... 1963: The Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) Act enacted... June 12th 1964: Andhra Pradesh Agricultural University (APAU) was established at Hyderabad with Shri. O. Pulla Reddi, I.C.S. (Retired) was the first founder Vice-Chancellor of the University... June 1964: Re-affilitation of Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Science, Hyderabad (estt. in 1961, affiliated to Osmania University), Agricultural College, Bapatla (estt. in 1945, affiliated to Andhra University), Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati and Andhra Veterinary College, Tirupati (estt. in 1961, affiliated to Sri Venkateswara University)... 20th March 1965: Formal inauguration of APAU by Late Shri. Lal Bahadur Shastri, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India... 1964-66: The report of the Second National Education Commission headed by Dr. D.S. Kothari, Chairman of the University Grants Commission stressed the need for establishing at least one Agricultural University in each Indian State... 23, June 1966: Inauguration of the Administrative building of the university by Late Smt. Indira Gandhi, the then Hon`ble Prime Minister of India... July, 1966: Transfer of 41 Agricultural Research Stations, functioning under the Department of Agriculture... May, 1967: Transfer of Four Research Stations of the Animal Husbandry Department... 7th November 1996: Renaming of University as Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University in honour and memory of an outstanding parliamentarian Acharya Nayukulu Gogineni Ranga... 15th July 2005: Establishment of Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University (SVVU) bifurcating ANGRAU by Act 18 of 2005... 26th June 2007: Establishment of Andhra Pradesh Horticultural University (APHU) bifurcating ANGRAU by the Act 30 of 2007... 2nd June 2014 As per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act 2014, ANGRAU is now... serving the students and the farmers of 13 districts of new State of Andhra Pradesh with renewed interest and dedication...

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Open Access
RESPONSE OF AEROBIC RICE ZERO TILLAGE MAIZE CROPPING SYSTEM TO SUB SURFACE DRIP FERTIGATION
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) PRASADA RAO, V; VENKATESWARLU, BALINENI
A field experiment was carried out for two consecutive years (2012-13 and 2013-14) on a sandy loam soil of Jain Hi-Tech Agri Institute, Jalgaon, Maharashtra with an objective to study the response of aerobic rice-zero tillage maize cropping system to sub surface drip ferigation. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with four replications. Four irrigation schedules were taken as main plots and four nitrogen levels in sub plots in drip system for both rice and maize crops. Irrigation schedules for rice included I1: Sub surface drip irrigation (SDI) at 100% pan evaporation (Epan), I2: SDI at 125% Epan, I3: SDI at 150% Epan and I4: at 175% Epan with four nitrogen levels viz., N1: 90; N2: 120; N3:150; and N4:180 kg ha-1 through fertigation. For the subsequent maize crop irrigation treatments included I1: SDI at 75% Epan, I2: SDI at 100% Epan, I3: SDI at 125% Epan and I4: SDI at 150% Epan with four nitrogen levels i.e., N1:120; N2: 160; N3:200 and N4:240 kg ha-1 through fertigation. Outside the layout of the main experiment, two checks and one check were tested in rice and maize crops, respectively. The checks for rice crop included, check 1: Aerobic rice non-irrigated with 120 kg N ha-1, check 2: Aerobic rice with supplemental irrigation at IW/CPE ratio of 1.5 with 120 kg N ha-1 In maize crop, the check tested was surface irrigation at IW/CPE ratio of 1.2 with 160 kg N ha-1. The cultivars used for the study were ‘25P25’ (Pioneer Hybrid) and ‘Dekalb’ (Private hybrid) and maize (DKC-8101) crops, respectively. Growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nitrogen uptake, water productivity, nitrogen use efficiency and economics of aerobic rice and zero tillage maize were influenced by irrigation schedules and nitrogen levels through fertigation. Plant height and tillers m -2 and drymatter production of aerobic rice were significantly higher in 175% Epan schedule compared to that of 100% Epan but comparable with that of 150% Epan. The number of panicles m-2 and filled spikelets panicle-1 increased from 100% Epan to 175% Epan while sterility of spikelets was higher with 100% Epan schedule. Higher grain and straw yield, nitrogen uptake, and economics were recorded with 175% Epan over the other three schedules. Irrespective of the irrigation schedules, growth parameters (plant height, tillers m-2 and drymatter accumulation), yield attributes (panicles m-2 and filled spikelets panicle-1) increased with level of N application from 90 to 180 kg N ha-1. The number of days taken to flowering was significantly lower with 180 kg N ha-1 while, sterility of spikelets was higher at 90 kg N ha-1compared to other doses. Grain yield, straw yield, nitrogen uptake and economic parameters were higher at 180 kg N ha-1. In general, growth parameters (plant height, drymatter accumulation) yield attributes (cobs plant-1, kernels cob-1, kernel weight cob-1) kernel yield, stover yield and nitrogen uptake of zero till maize increased with increase in irrigation schedule from 75% Epan to 150% Epan irrigation schedule in drip irrigation. Tasseling and silking was hastened in 150% Epan schedule compared to 75% Epan. Increase in the level of N application from 120 to 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in the increase of all the growth parameters, yield attributes, kernel yield, stover yield and nitrogen uptake. The economic indicators (gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee of investment) were higher with the irrigation schedule of 150% Epan and nitrogen dose of 240 kg N ha-1 applied through fertigation. Productivity of cropping system in terms of rice equivalent yield was the highest with the irrigation schedule of 175% Epan and 150% Epan and with the application of 180 and 240 kg N ha-1 to rice and maize crops respectively grown in the sequence. Water requirement increased with the increase in water input while, its productivity reduced correspondingly in both rice and maize crops and the cropping system as a whole. However, nitrogen use efficiency enhanced with the increase in water input and reduced with increase in the N level. The investigations conducted for two consecutive years, clearly indicated the benefit of fertigation at 175% Epan with 180 kg N ha-1 to rice and 100% Epan with 240 kg N ha-1 to maize crops in increasing the productivity and profitability of aerobic rice - zero tillage maize cropping system.
Open Access
PRODUCTION POTENTIAL AND ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF FOOD-FORAGE BASED CROPPING SYSTEMS UNDER IRRIGATION
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) DIVYA, V; CHANDRIKA, V
The present investigation entitled “Production potential and economic viability of food-forage based cropping systems under irrigation” was carried out during 2014-15 and 2015-16 on sandy clay loam soils of Dryland Farm, S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications, consisting of ten food-forage based cropping systems viz., T1 - Napier bajra hybrid –Napier bajra hybrid – Napier bajra hybrid, T2 - Jowar (F) – Baby corn – Cowpea (F), T3 - Groundnut – Maize – Greengram, T4 - Maize – Lucerne – Lucerne, T5 - Groundnut – Maize (F) – Cowpea, T6 - Groundnut – Sweet corn – Greengram, T7 - Groundnut – Sweet corn – Cowpea , T8 - Groundnut – Baby corn – Greengram, T9 - Groundnut – Baby corn – Cowpea and T10 - Groundnut – Oat (F) – Greengram. Napier bajra hybrid as perennial fodder (T1) recorded higher system productivity during both the years of study. During kharif, groundnut in T3, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, and T10 cropping systems were comparable in recording higher equivalent yield of napier bajra and groundnut. Sweet corn as rabi component crop in T6 and T7 were on par in obtaining higher equivalent yield of napier bajra and groundnut. During summer, higher equivalent yield of napier bajra and groundnut was recorded with lucerne in T4 during both the years of experiment. Higher equivalent yield of napier bajra and groundnut was obtained with groundnut – sweet corn – greengram (T6) and was statistically on par with groundnut – sweet corn – cowpea (T7) during both the years of study. Among the component crops of kharif, groundnut crop of T3 and T10 cropping systems recorded higher value of sustainability yield index (SYI). Higher value of SYI was associated with sweet corn (T6 and T7) during rabi. Lucerne of T4 recorded maximum value of SYI during summer. T6 (groundnut – sweet corn – greengram) recorded higher SYI during both the years of investigation. Napier bajra hybrid as a component crop of T1 produced higher dry matter during kharif and summer. Accrual of higher dry matter was associated with fodder maize of T5 in rabi. T1 system (napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid) was superior in registering higher dry matter during both the years of experiment. During kharif, napier bajra hybrid in T1 occupied higher duration in the field. Maize as component crop of T3 in rabi recorded higher duration while, it was noticed with napier bajra hybrid in T1 during summer. The cropping system napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid (T1) occupied higher duration (higher land use efficiency) in the field during both the years of study. Groundnut – sweet corn – greengram (T6) recorded significantly higher system efficiency in terms of both napier and groundnut equivalent yield. Both T6 (groundnut – sweet corn – greengram) and T7 (groundnut – sweet corn – cowpea) systems were on par in registering higher production efficiency in terms of groundnut equivalent yield during both the years of investigation. Napier bajra hybrid (T1) and groundnut in T3, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9 and T10 cropping systems and maize of T3 required more number of irrigations during kharif. Maize as rabi component crop in T4 required more number of irrigations over other component crops tried. In summer more number of irrigations were required by cowpea (T5, T7 and T9) during the first year while, napier bajra hybrid in T1 received more number of irrigations during second year of study. More number of irrigations were required by groundnut – maize – greengram (T3) during the first year of study while, T1 (napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid – napier bajra hybrid) in second year. Among the component crops tested during kharif, fodder jowar in T2 recorded higher water productivity. Fodder maize of T5 registered maximum water productivity during rabi. Higher water productivity was noticed with napier bajra hybrid (T1) in summer. T2 (jowar (F) – baby corn – cowpea (F)) recorded higher water productivity during both the years of study. Maize of T4 required higher man-days during kharif over rest of the component crops tested. Maize in T3 required higher man days in rabi. Greengram (T3, T6, T8 and T10) required maximum man days during summer. T3 system required higher total man days during the first year whereas, T2 system required maximum man days in second year of experimentation. Among the component crops during kharif, groundnut (T3, T5, T7, T6, T7, T8, T9, and T10 systems) recorded higher crude protein content but, higher crude protein yield was noticed with napier bajra hybrid of T1. Lucerne of T4 recorded higher crude protein content and yield during both rabi and summer. T1 system recorded significantly higher crude protein yield during both the years of study. During both the years of investigation, among the component crops tested, maize of T4 cropping system recorded higher crude fibre content during kharif. Maximum crude fibre content was noticed with maize of T3 during rabi. Napier bajra hybrid in T1 obtained higher crude fibre content during summer. In both the years of study, groundnut (T5, T3, T6, T7, T8, T9 and T10 cropping systems), sweet corn (T6 and T7) and lucerne (T4) realized higher monetary returns and B:C ratio during kharif, rabi and summer, respectively. T6 and T7 systems were comparable with each other in recording higher net and gross returns, benefit-cost ratio, monetary returns use efficiency and system profitability during both the years of experimentation. During kharif, napier bajra hybrid as a component crop of T1 recorded higher input and output energy but, higher energy balance, energy ratio and energy productivity were registered with fodder jowar of T2. Higher energy input was recorded with sweet corn (T7 and T6) among the component crops tested during rabi while, higher energy output and energy balance were recorded with baby corn of T2, T8 and T9 cropping systems. Napier bajra hybrid in T1 during summer, recorded the highest input energy, output energy and energy balance whereas, lucerne of T4 registered higher energy ratio and energy productivity during both the years of experiment. Among the cropping systems tested during the two years of study, higher total input energy and energy output recorded with T1, while T2 recorded the highest energy balance, energy ratio and energy productivity. Higher uptake of nitrogen was recorded with maize of T4 during kharif. Sweet corn (T7 and T6) recorded higher nitrogen uptake during rabi while, it was registered with fodder cowpea of T2 during summer. T6 and T7 cropping systems were on par in recording higher nitrogen uptake during both the years of study. xx In kharif, maize in T4 foraged higher phosphorus. Lucerne of T4 recorded higher uptake of phosphorus during rabi. Higher uptake of phosphorus was registered with lucerne of T4 during summer. Among the food-forage cropping systems, maize – lucerne – lucerne (T4) recorded higher phosphorus uptake during both the years of experiment. Higher uptake of potassium was associated with napier bajra hybrid in T1 during kharif. Lucerne of T4 recorded higher uptake of potassium during rabi whereas, in summer, higher potassium uptake was observed with fodder cowpea of T2. In both the years of experiment T4 cropping system recorded significantly the highest uptake of potassium. Different food-forage based cropping systems tried under the study did not exert any significant variation on soil bulk density, pH at the end of second year of the experiment. The cropping systems tested during the two years significantly influenced the electrical conductivity and organic carbon in soil after completion of cropping cycle. Lower electrical conductivity and higher organic carbon were observed in soil after harvest of T4 system during both the years of investigation. Cropping systems did not exert any significant effect on soil available nitrogen and phosphorus except on available potassium during the first year of study. Whereas, significant effect on all the available nutrients was observed during second year. Higher availability of nitrogen and phosphorus was noticed under T4 cropping system. While, available potassium was higher with T8 cropping system. Net gain in soil available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium compared to initial soil status was observed under each cropping system at the end of two years of investigation except under T1 and T4 systems where net loss in soil available potassium over initial status was recorded during both the years of experiment. From the above results, it can be concluded that intensification of food cropping systems with fodder crops may enhance the productivity, profitability, sustainability, employment generation and soil fertility to maximum extent. Based on production efficiencies and monetary returns groundnut – sweet corn – greengram/cowpea cropping system was found to be more remunerative, economically viable, profitable and sustainable foodforage based system under irrigation for Southern Agro-Climatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh closely followed by groundnut – baby corn – greengram/ cowpea over other cropping systems.
Open Access
INVESTIGATIONS ON EFFICACY OF NANOSCALE NUTRIENTS ON GROWTH AND BIOETHANOL PRODUCTIVITY OF SWEET SORGHUM (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) NASEERUDDIN, R; SUMATHI, V
The present investigation entitled “Investigations on Efficacy of Nanoscale Nutrients on Growth and Bioethanol Productivity of Sweet Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench)” was carried out under four experiments during 2014 and 2015 at S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University of Andhra Pradesh. Nanoscale ZnO was prepared using oxalate decomposition technique, whereas CaO and MgO were prepared using solgel method. The prepared particles were in nanoscale range, confirmed by characterization techniques viz., UV-Vis spectrophotometer, zeta potential analyzer, XRD and SEM. The synthesized nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO mean size was 25.0, 46.5 and 33.17 nm, respectively. An in vitro study was conducted to record its effect on seed germination, seedling vigour index. The germination percentage and seedling vigour index was higher with 500 ppm of bulk MgSO4 and CaNO3, while, same parameters were higher with 10 ppm of bulk ZnSO4. Further, 100 ppm of each ZnO, CaO and MgO nanoparticle recorded significantly higher percentage of germination, length of the shoot and root and seedling vigour index. A pot culture study was carried out to see the effect of different concentrations of nanoscale and bulk nutrients on potted sweet sorghum plants. Taller plants, higher drymatter, SCMR and Chlorophyll content was observed with bulk ZnSO4, CaNO3 and MgSO4 each @ 500 ppm followed by 1000 ppm. The concentration of 100 ppm each nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO particles were found to be superior for the same parameters, during both the years of experimentation. xx Based on the invitro and pot culture study, concentrations of 500 ppm each for bulk ZnSO4, CaNO3 and MgSO4, whereas, 100 ppm each for nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO was identified as optimum dose for field evaluation. The field experiments were conducted during two consecutive seasons of kharif, 2014 and 2015 at S.V. Agricultural College, dryland farm, Tirupati. The experiments were laid out in randomized block design with three replications and nine treatments. The treatments comprised of RDF alone coupled with foliar spray of zinc, calcium and magnesium either alone or in combination with nano and bulk forms at 40 and 60 DAS. The growth parameters of sweet sorghum viz., plant height, leaf area index and total drymatter production was recorded higher with the application of RDF along with foliar spray of nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO in combination. Foliar application of nanoscale and bulk nutrients had a promising influence in improving the yield components and yield of sweet sorghum. Application of RDF followed by foliar spray of nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO in combination resulted in higher number of grains panicle-1, 1000 grain weight and grain yield. The foliar application of nanoscale and bulk nutrients to sweet sorghum noticeably altered the green forage yield, cane yield and juice yield. Application of RDF along with foliar spray of nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO in combination resulted in superior position, compared to other treatments in recording above parameters, during both the years of investigation. The sugar yield and juice extraction of sweet sorghum was significantly influenced with foliar application of nanoscale and bulk nutrients. The highest sugar yield and juice extraction was noticed with the application of RDF followed by foliar application of nanoscale ZnO + CaO + MgO. The quality parameters of sweet sorghum juice (pH, brix, sucrose content, reducing sugars and total sugars) were significantly influenced with foliar application of nanoscale and bulk nutrients. These parameters were higher with application of RDF along with combination of three nanoscale nutrients, except pH, which is not influenced by foliar application of nanoscale and bulk nutrients. The foliar application of nanoscale and bulk calcium, magnesium and zinc significantly influenced the uptake of nutrients by sweet sorghum crop. Application of RDF along with nanoscale nutrients in combination resulted in higher uptake of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, magnesium and zinc, during both years of study. The quality parameters of green fodder of sweet sorghum (crude protein, crude fibre, total ash and fat) were found superior with application of RDF along with foliar spray of three (ZnO, CaO and MgO) nanoscale nutrients in combination. The higher gross and net returns were realized with foliar application of nanoscale nutrients in combination along with RDF, whereas RDF along with nanoscale ZnO recorded higher B : C ratio, during both the years of experimentation. The poor growth, low productivity and a lesser amount of returns in sweet sorghum crop was as usual with the crop not received any form of bulk and nano nutrients, during both the years of study. xxi Post harvest laboratory study was conducted to see the effect of nanoscale nutrients addition during fermentation of sweet sorghum juice. The ethanol content and ethanol yield estimated at 24 hours successive intervals from start of the fermentation experiment showed the influence of addition of nanoscale CaO and MgO at different concentrations on altering the ethanol content by enhancing the rate of fermentation compared to bulk CaNO3 and MgSO4 addition. Based on the screening of different concentrations, the optimum dose for nanoscale CaO and MgO was 10 ppm and 20 ppm, respectively. Further, these identified nanoscale nutrient optimum doses were added either single or in combination during fermentation of sweet sorghum juice extracted from field experiment. The highest ethanol content and ethanol yield was obtained with combined addition of nanoscale CaO at 10 ppm and 20 ppm of nanoscale MgO, where maximum sugars were converted into ethanol, during both the years of experimentation. The carryover effect of nanoscale and bulk nutrients applied to sweet sorghum on fermentation was also recorded. The highest values of ethanol content, ethanol yield and lower total sugars were noticed with the crop received RDF + nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO along with addition of nanoscale CaO + MgO during fermentation, during both the years of investigation. Based on the outcome of the pre experimental laboratory and pot culture studies, it could be inferred that 100 ppm of concentration is optimum for foliar spraying of nanoscale nutrients of ZnO or CaO or MgO. The field investigations concluded that for obtaining maximum grain yield, juice yield, improved quality of juice and fodder with higher monetary returns, the sweet sorghum crop should receive 100:60:40 kg N:P2O5:K2O ha-1 as RDF followed by foliar spray of 100 ppm each of nanoscale ZnO, CaO and MgO in combination on 40 and 60 DAS on standing crop. The post experimental laboratory analysis concluded that maximum ethanol productivity is possible when fermentation juice received 10 ppm nanoscale CaO and 20 ppm of nanoscale MgO.
Open Access
STANDARDIZATION OF AGROTECHNIQUES FOR KNOLKHOL [Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes (L.)] IN SOUTHERN AGROCLIMATIC ZONE OF ANDHRA PRADESH
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) LALITHA, KADIRI; SUMATHI, V
Present investigation entitled ‘Standardization of agrotechniques for knolkhol [Brassica oleracea var. gongylodes (L.)] in Southern Agroclimatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh’ was carried out for two consecutive rabi seasons of 2014-15 and 2015-16 at Horticultural College and Research Institute, Anantharajupeta, Andhra Pradesh. Experimental design was split-split plot, with three replications. The treatments comprised of three times of planting viz., I FN of November (T1), II FN of November (T2) and I FN of December (T3) assigned to main plots, three spacings viz., 30 cm x 15 cm (S1), 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) and 45 cm x 15 cm (S3) allotted to sub plots and five nitrogen doses viz.,0 kg N ha-1 (N1), 75 kg N ha-1 (N2), 100 kg N ha-1 (N3), 125 kg N ha-1 (N4) and 150 kg N ha-1 (N5) assigned to sub-sub plots. The test variety was ‘White Vienna’. The crop microclimate was favourable in terms of canopy temperature and light interception per cent with the crop planted during I FN of December (T3) when compared to other two planting times tested. Among the spacings tested, favourable microclimate was noticed with closer spacing of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1), which was followed by 45 cm x 15 cm (S3) and 30 cm x 30 cm (S2). Canopy temperature progressively decreased with increase in nitrogen level, whereas the light interception per cent increased progressively with increase in nitrogen doses. The maximum heat units (degree days) from planting to 50 per cent knob initiation and from 50 per cent knob initiation to harvest were with the xx crop planted during I FN of December (T3) over earlier plantings. Among the spacings, the maximum accumulated heat units were estimated with the planting pattern of 30 cm x 15 cm followed by 45 cm x 15 cm and 30 cm x 30 cm. There was progressive decrease in accumulated heat units with successive increase in nitrogen level from 0 to 150 kg N ha-1. The highest stature of growth parameters viz., plant height, number of leaves plant-1, length and width of the leaf, SCMR values, dry matter production and circumference of knob were with the crop planted during I FN of December (T3), which was significantly higher than that due to II FN of November (T2) planting. With regard to spacings, significantly taller plants with higher dry matter accrual were observed at a closer spacing of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1) followed by a wider spacing of 45 cm x 15 cm (S3). The highest values with respect to length and width of the leaf and circumference of knob were recorded with spacing of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2). While, the SCMR values followed a significant descending order of S3, S2 and S1 respectively. With regard to nitrogen levels, at all the stages of crop growth, increase in nitrogen dose from 0 kg N ha-1 (N1) to 150 kg N ha-1 (N5) resulted in significant linear increase in all the growth parameters with significant disparity between any two of them. Number of days to 50 per cent knob initiation and days to marketable maturity were significantly lesser with the crop planted during I FN of November (T1) relative to that with II FN of November (T2). Significantly minimum number of days to 50 per cent knob initiation and days to marketable maturity were registered with a spacing of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) followed by other two spacings tried. A progressive reduction in number of days to 50 per cent knob initiation and marketable maturity was noticed with successive increase in nitrogen dose from 0 kg ha-1 (N1) to 150 kg ha-1 (N5) with significant disparity between any of the five nitrogen levels tried during both the years. The highest level of yield attributes viz., horizontal and vertical length of the knob and knob fresh weight were associated with delayed planting i.e., during I FN of December (T3), compared to that of II FN of November (T2) and I FN of November (T1) plantings. Maximum values with respect to yield attributes were recorded with planting pattern of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) when compared to rest of the planting patterns. Application of 150 kg N ha-1 (N5) recorded significantly the highest stature of yield attributes followed by 125 kg N ha-1 (N4). With regard to interaction, the highest knob fresh weight plant -1 was noticed with widest spacing of 30 cm x 30 cm coupled with highest level of nitrogen i.e., 150 kg N ha-1 followed by wider spacing of 45 cm x 15 cm at same level of nitrogen. xxi During both the years, the highest knob yield was with late planted crop i.e., during I FN of December (T3) followed by planting the crop during II FN of November (T2) and I FN of November (T1) in the order of descent. Significantly, higher knob yield ha-1 was observed at a closer spacing of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1) followed by wider spacing of 45 cm x 15 cm (S3). The highest nitrogen dose of 150 kg ha-1 (N5) resulted in significantly higher knob yield compared with lower nitrogen doses tested. The highest knob yield was with spacing of 30 cm x 15 cm coupled with highest level of nitrogen i.e., 150 kg N ha-1 followed by 125 kg N ha-1 at same spacing, during both the years. Among the three planting times tried, the maximum harvest index was registered with crop planted during I FN of December followed by II FN of November (T2) and I FN of November (T1) in the order of descent. Among the three spacings under scrutiny maximum harvest index was noticed with the spacing of 45 cm x 15 cm (S3). Harvest index of knolkhol tended to increase progressively from 0 kg N ha-1 (N1) to 150 kg N ha-1 (N5). At all the stages of observation, the shelf life of knobs in terms of lower weight loss per cent was longer with the earlier planted crop during I FN of November (T1) and II FN of November (T2) compared to latest planting. The lowest weight loss per cent was noticed with spacing of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) followed by 45 cm x 15 cm (S3) spacing. The weight loss per cent tended to decrease linearly with successive increase in level of nitrogen from 0 kg ha-1 (N1) to 150 kg ha-1 (N5), with significant disparity among one another. There was no perceptible change in TSS of the knolkhol knobs due to varied times of planting. While, the effect of staggered times of planting on other quality parameters was conspicuous. The highest ascorbic acid content and protein content were registered with the crop planted during I FN of December (T3). The highest crude fibre content was with the crop planted during I FN of November (T1). Improved quality of knolkhol knobs in terms of TSS, ascorbic acid content and protein content was with planting geometry of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) followed by of 45 cm x 15 cm (S3) and 30 cm x 15 cm (S1), which in turn were on par with each other. But the fibre content of knobs was highest with the crop geometry of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1). Appearance of knobs was superior from the crop planted during I FN of December (T3) compared to that of other two earlier plantings. The higher values with respect to appearance of knolkohl knobs were observed with the planting pattern of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2). An increasing trend was noticed with respect to appearance of knolkhol knobs from 0 kg N ha-1 (N1) to the highest level of nitrogen tried i.e., 150 kg N ha-1 (N5). xxii Nutrient uptake (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) by knolkhol at harvest was significantly higher with the crop planted during I FN of December (T3). Significantly, higher nutrient uptake was due to planting pattern of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1). The uptake of nutrients increased significantly from the lowest dose of 0 kg N ha-1 up to the maximum tested dose of 150 kg N ha-1, during both the years of study. The post harvest soil fertility status (available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) was improved under the crop planted during I FN of November (T1), during both the years. There was significant improvement in post harvest soil fertility status with planting pattern of 30 cm x 30 cm (S2) over other spacings tried. Successive increase in nitrogen level from 0 to 150 kg ha-1 significantly increased the post harvest soil fertility status. The highest gross returns, net returns and benefit cost ratio were realized with the crop planted during I FN of December (T3). Gross returns and net returns were highest with the planting pattern of 30 cm x 15 cm (S1), while the benefit cost ratio was highest with that due to 45 cm x 15 cm (S3). Application of the highest and lowest level of nitrogen (150 and 0 kg N ha-1) resulted in maximum and minimum economic returns, respectively. Investigations indicated that knolkhol crop gives optimum yield and economic returns if planted during I FN of December at a spacing of 30 cm x 15 cm along with application 150 kg N ha-1 in Southern Agroclimatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh.
Open Access
PERFORMANCE OF MAIZE-CHICKPEA SEQUENCE AT DIFFERENT SOWING WINDOWS AND NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) RATNAM, M; VENKATESWARLU, BALINENI
A field experiment entitled “Performance of maize-chickpea sequence at different sowing windows and nutrient management practices” was conducted for two consecutive years (2013-14 and 2014-15) on a clay soil of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lam Farm, Guntur-34 with an objective to find out the feasibility of maize-chickpea based cropping system for rainfed areas of Krishna agro-climatic conditions of Andhra Pradesh and to find out suitable agronomic management techniques for maize-chickpea based cropping system for rainfed areas and its economics. The kharif experiment was conducted in split plot design and the treatments were replicated thrice with three sowing windows viz., 2nd Fortnight of June, (M1) 1st Fortnight of July (M2) and 2nd Fortnight of July (M3) as main plot treatments and three levels of nitrogen (N1:100 % RDN; N2:150 % RDN; N3:200 % RDN) as sub plot treatments with maize in kharif season. In the same field rabi experiment was conducted in split-split plot design and the treatments were replicated thrice with three sowing windows where maize crop harvested as main plots and N levels to maize (N1:100 % RDN; N2:150 % RDN; N3:200 % RDN) as sub-plots and N levels to chickpea (F1: 0 % RDN, F2: 50 % RDN, F3: 75 % RDN and F4: 100 % RDN) as sub-sub plots in rabi. The trial was repeated on the same field with same type of soil in the second year. During the two years of experimentation in kharif popular high yielding maize hybrid Pioneer 3396 followed by the most popular high yielding chickpea variety suitable for this region JG-11 were sown in rabi. The growth parameters of maize viz., plant height and drymatter accumulation was influenced by sowing windows and N levels applied to maize. 2nd FN of June sowing of maize resulted in the maximum plant height and drymatter accumulation at maturity during both the years. Irrespective of the year of study, plant height and drymatter accumulation were significally higher with 200 % N and was comparable with that of 150 %. Similarly, yield attributes like cob length was significantly more with 200 % RDN and comparable with that of 150 % RDN in 2013-14 while number of kernel rows cob-1 was more with 200 % RDN and was comparable with that of 150 % RDN in both the years. Cob diameter was more with 200 % RDN but not comparable with 150 % RDN in both the years. The cob weight and number of kernels cob-1 were significantly higher with 200 % RDN over 100 % RDN but comparable with 150 % RDN in 2013-14. Number of chaffy kernels cob-1 and 100-kernel weight of maize were more with crop sown 2nd FN June with nitrogen at 200 % in both the years. Similarly, more kernel and stover yields, economic return and nutrient uptake of maize were recorded in the crop sown on 2nd FN June with at 200 % RDN followed by 150 % RDN. The significally higher kernel yield of 94.94 and 94.29 q ha-1 was recorded with crop sown on 2nd FN June with 200 % RDN as preceding crop during first and second years, respectively. However, it was comparable with that of crop sown on 1st FN July sowing with 150 % RDN as preceding crop 91.35 and 93.05 q ha-1, respectively. The highest kernel yield of 93.96 and 93.31q ha-1 was observed with 200 % in both the years which was significantly superior to 100 % RDN tested. The total uptake of N by maize at harvest was the highest with 200 % RDN, which was on a par with 150 % RDN in both the years. The growth parameters of succeeding rabi chickpea viz., plant height and drymatter accumulation was influenced by preceding maize treatments and N levels applied to chickpea. 1st FN of July sowing with 200 % RDN to preceding maize and N applied at 100 % RDN to succeeding chickpea resulted in the maximum plant height and drymatter accumulation at maturity during both the years. Irrespective of the year of study, plant height and drymatter accumulation were the maximum with 100% RDN and was comparable with that of 0, 50, 75 % RDN. Similarly, yield attributes like number of branches plant-1, number of pods plant-1, number of seeds pod-1 and test weight (1000 grain weight) were significantly more when preceding maize was sown on 1st FN of July with 200 % RDN and N applied at 100 % RDN to succeeding chickpea in both the years. Similarly, more grain and stover yields, economic return and nutrient uptake of succeeding chickpea were recorded when the preceding maize was sown on 1st FN of July with 200% RDN and N applied at 100 % RDN to succeeding chickpea. The highest grain yield of 17.47 and 17.42 q ha-1 was recorded with succeeding chickpea when preceding maize sown on 1st FN July with 200 % RDN during first and second years, respectively, however, it was comparable with that of crop sown on 2st FN July and 2nd FN June sowing with 100 and 150 % RDN as preceding crop. The highest grain yield of (17.49 and 17.35q ha-1) was observed with 100 % RDN applied to succeeding chickpea in both the years which was significantly superior to 0, 50, 75 % RDN tested. The total uptake of N by chickpea at harvest was the highest with 100 % RDN applied to succeeding crop. From the experiments conducted for two consecutive years, with kharif maize followed by succeeding chickpea in sequence at different sowing windows and nitrogen levels, it clearly indicated that maize-chickpea sequence is profitable when maize was sown on 1st FN July with 200 % followed by chickpea sown at 100 % RDN with the BC ratio of Rs. 3.6 to 3.9 under Krishna agro climatic conditions of Andhra Pradesh.
Open Access
RESPONSE OF AEROBIC RICE ZERO TILLAGE MAIZE CROPPING SYSTEM TO SUB SURFACE DRIP FERTIGATION
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2016) PRASADA RAO, V; VENKATESWARLU, BALINENI
A field experiment was carried out for two consecutive years (2012-13 and 2013-14) on a sandy loam soil of Jain Hi-Tech Agri Institute, Jalgaon, Maharashtra with an objective to study the response of aerobic rice-zero tillage maize cropping system to sub surface drip ferigation. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with four replications. Four irrigation schedules were taken as main plots and four nitrogen levels in sub plots in drip system for both rice and maize crops. Irrigation schedules for rice included I1: Sub surface drip irrigation (SDI) at 100% pan evaporation (Epan), I2: SDI at 125% Epan, I3: SDI at 150% Epan and I4: at 175% Epan with four nitrogen levels viz., N1: 90; N2: 120; N3:150; and N4:180 kg ha-1 through fertigation. For the subsequent maize crop irrigation treatments included I1: SDI at 75% Epan, I2: SDI at 100% Epan, I3: SDI at 125% Epan and I4: SDI at 150% Epan with four nitrogen levels i.e., N1:120; N2: 160; N3:200 and N4:240 kg ha-1 through fertigation. Outside the layout of the main experiment, two checks and one check were tested in rice and maize crops, respectively. The checks for rice crop included, check 1: Aerobic rice non-irrigated with 120 kg N ha-1, check 2: Aerobic rice with supplemental irrigation at IW/CPE ratio of 1.5 with 120 kg N ha-1 In maize crop, the check tested was surface irrigation at IW/CPE ratio of 1.2 with 160 kg N ha-1. The cultivars used for the study were ‘25P25’ (Pioneer Hybrid) and ‘Dekalb’ (Private hybrid) and maize (DKC-8101) crops, respectively. Growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nitrogen uptake, water productivity, nitrogen use efficiency and economics of aerobic rice and zero tillage maize were influenced by irrigation schedules and nitrogen levels through fertigation. Plant height and tillers m -2 and drymatter production of aerobic rice were significantly higher in 175% Epan schedule compared to that of 100% Epan but comparable with that of 150% Epan. The number of panicles m-2 and filled spikelets panicle-1 increased from 100% Epan to 175% Epan while sterility of spikelets was higher with 100% Epan schedule. Higher grain and straw yield, nitrogen uptake, and economics were recorded with 175% Epan over the other three schedules. Irrespective of the irrigation schedules, growth parameters (plant height, tillers m-2 and drymatter accumulation), yield attributes (panicles m-2 and filled spikelets panicle-1) increased with level of N application from 90 to 180 kg N ha-1. The number of days taken to flowering was significantly lower with 180 kg N ha-1 while, sterility of spikelets was higher at 90 kg N ha-1compared to other doses. Grain yield, straw yield, nitrogen uptake and economic parameters were higher at 180 kg N ha-1. In general, growth parameters (plant height, drymatter accumulation) yield attributes (cobs plant-1, kernels cob-1, kernel weight cob-1) kernel yield, stover yield and nitrogen uptake of zero till maize increased with increase in irrigation schedule from 75% Epan to 150% Epan irrigation schedule in drip irrigation. Tasseling and silking was hastened in 150% Epan schedule compared to 75% Epan. Increase in the level of N application from 120 to 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in the increase of all the growth parameters, yield attributes, kernel yield, stover yield and nitrogen uptake. The economic indicators (gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee of investment) were higher with the irrigation schedule of 150% Epan and nitrogen dose of 240 kg N ha-1 applied through fertigation. Productivity of cropping system in terms of rice equivalent yield was the highest with the irrigation schedule of 175% Epan and 150% Epan and with the application of 180 and 240 kg N ha-1 to rice and maize crops respectively grown in the sequence. Water requirement increased with the increase in water input while, its productivity reduced correspondingly in both rice and maize crops and the cropping system as a whole. However, nitrogen use efficiency enhanced with the increase in water input and reduced with increase in the N level. The investigations conducted for two consecutive years, clearly indicated the benefit of fertigation at 175% Epan with 180 kg N ha-1 to rice and 100% Epan with 240 kg N ha-1 to maize crops in increasing the productivity and profitability of aerobic rice - zero tillage maize cropping system
Open Access
AGROTECHNIQUES FOR ENHANCING THE PRODUCTIVITY OF RABI REDGRAM [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] AND STUDY OF CARRYOVER EFFECT ON YIELD OF SUMMER FODDER
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2015) NAGAMANI, C; SUMATHI, V
Present investigation entitled “Agrotechniques for enhancing the productivity of rabi redgram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] and study of carryover effect on summer fodder” was carried out for two consecutive rabi and summer seasons of 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 at S. V. Agricultural College Farm (ANGRAU), Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot design, replicated thrice. The treatments were three times of sowing viz., II FN of September (T1), I FN of October (T2) and II FN of October (T3) as main plots, three nutrient doses viz.,10-40-0 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N1), 20-50-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N2) and 30-6020 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) as sub plots and two foliar sprays viz., NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) sprayed once at 60 DAS (F1) and same twice at 60 and 80 DAS (F2) as sub-sub plots. The test variety was LRG-41. There was significant improvement in growth parameters of redgram (plant height, leaf area and dry matter production) due to II FN of September (T1) sowing relative to that due to I FN of October (T2) and II FN of October (T3) sowings. All the growth parameters suffered a setback due to II FN of October (T3) sowing. Application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) significantly improved the growth parameters. The effect of foliar sprays on growth was significant only at 100 DAS and at harvest as the treatments were imposed at 60 and 80 DAS. There was significant improvement in plant height, leaf area and dry matter production due to foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) twice at 60 and 80 DAS (F2). Crop growth rate was significantly higher due to September II FN (T1) sowing, during both the years. Significantly, higher crop growth rate at all samplings was with 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3), during both the years. Foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) at 60 and 80 DAS (F2) resulted in significantly higher crop growth rate between 75 and 100 DAS and 100 DAS and at harvest. Crop sown during II FN of September receiving nutrient dose of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N3) recorded higher crop growth rate between 100 DAS and at harvest, which was however, comparable with that due to September II FN sowing with nutrient dose of 20-50-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N2). At 25, 50 and 75 DAS, number of total and effective nodules plant-1 were the highest due to II FN of September (T1) sowing followed by that due to I FN of October (T2) and II FN of October (T3) with significant disparity between any two of them, during both the years. With regard to nutrient doses, application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) resulted in significantly higher number of total and effective nodules plant-1. At 25 DAS interaction of crop sown during II FN of September with nutrient dose of 20-50-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N2) resulted in the highest number of total and effective nodules plant-1. Longer duration to 50 per cent flowering and maturity was with the crop sown during II FN of September (T1) which was significantly longer than that due to later sowings. Maximum growing degree days and helio thermal units from sowing to 50 per cent flowering and 50 per cent flowering to maturity were accumulated by rabi redgram sown during II FN of September (T1) and was decreased in order for each fortnight delay in sowing. Crop sown during II FN of September (T1) significantly improved the yield attributes (number of pod bearing branches plant-1, number of pods branch-1, number of seeds pod-1 and test weight), seed and stalk yield relative to late sowings. Application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) improved the yield attributes, seed and stalk yield, during both the years. Foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) at 60 and 80 DAS (F2) significantly improved the yield attributes, seed and stalk yield of redgram in both the years. Crop sown during II FN of September receiving 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N3) significantly improved the yield attributes (except test weight), seed and stalk yield. Number of pod bearing branches plant-1 and seed yield were the highest due to II FN of September sowing along with foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) at 60 and 80 DAS (T1F2), during both the years. The highest seed protein content was with earliest sown crop during II FN of September (T1), while the lowest was with that due to II FN of October (T3) sowing, during both the years. Application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) resulted in the highest seed protein content. The highest nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) content and uptake were with the earliest sown crop during II FN of September (T1) during both the years. Application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) resulted in the highest nutrient content and uptake, which was significantly higher with 20-50-10 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N2) in both the years. With regard to foliar sprays, nitrogen uptake during first year and phosphorus uptake during both the years, were the highest with NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) foliar spray at 60 and 80 DAS (F2). The highest phosphorus and potassium uptake was with crop sown during II FN of September along with the nutrient dose of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N3). The highest gross and net returns as well as benefit : cost ratio were with the crop sown during II FN of September (T1) in both the years. With regard to nutrient doses, 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1(N3) resulted in the highest economic returns. Foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) at 60 and 80 DAS (F2) resulted in significantly higher economic returns relative to that due to same foliar spray once at 60 DAS (F1). The highest economic returns were with crop sown during II FN of September with 3060-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (T1N3) during both the years. The highest gross and net returns were with crop sown during II FN of September with foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) at 60 and 80 DAS (T1F2) during both the years. Significant improvement in post harvest soil fertility status (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) after rabi redgram was with the crop sown during II FN of October (T3). Among the nutrient doses, 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1(N3) resulted in the highest residual soil fertility status, during both the years. Significantly higher green fodder yield of korra, on residual fertility after rabi redgram, was with late sown crop during II FN of October (T3). The highest green fodder yield of korra was due to residual effect of 30-6020 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1(N3), which was significantly higher than with other nutrient doses tested. The highest crude protein and crude fiber content of fodder korra was with residual effect of rabi redgram sown during II FN of October (T3) while their lowest were with that due to II FN of September (T1) sowing, during both the years. Significantly the highest crude protein and crude fiber content was with residual effect of the highest nutrient dose of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 (N3) applied to rabi redgram, during both the years. Significant improvement in post harvest soil fertility status, after korra, was with the residual effect of rabi redgram sown during II FN of October (T3). Application of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1(N3) significantly improved the post harvest soil fertility status. Investigations indicated that rabi redgram gives optimum yield and economic returns if sown during II FN of September with 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1 along with foliar spray of NAA (25 ppm) and DAP (2 %) twice at 60 and 80 DAS. During summer season, higher green fodder yield of korra, on residual fertility after rabi redgram, can be realised if rabi redgram is sown during II FN of October with of 30-60-20 kg N, P2O5 and K2O ha-1.
Open Access
EVALUATION OF WATER AND NITROGEN PRODUCTIVITY FOR MAIZE PRECEDED BY GREENGRAM UNDER DRIP IRRIGATION
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2015) DEEPTHI KIRAN, Y
The present investigation entitled “Evaluation of water and nitrogen productivity for maize preceded by greengram under drip irrigation” was carried out during kharif and rabi seasons of 2013-14 and 2014-15 on sandy clay loam soils of S.V. Agricultural College Farm, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University of Andhra Pradesh. During kharif, greengram was raised as bulk crop by following the recommended package of practices. After manual picking of greengram pods, the haulms were incorporated in to the soil. The rabi maize experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replications. The treatments comprised of four main plots viz., M1 (drip irrigation at 0.7 IW/CPE ratio), M2 (drip irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio), M3 (drip irrigation at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio) and M4 (weekly check basin irrigation) and three sub plots viz., N1 (160 kg N ha-1), N2 (200 kg N ha-1) and N3 (240 kg N ha-1). Separately, unreplicated observational plot was also maintained with same treatments to maize but without preceding greengram for comparative study. To schedule the drip irrigation at prescribed IW/CPE ratios the treatments were maintained to field capacity in the top 0-45 cm depth i.e. only effective root zone depth, whereas for check basin irrigation the depth of water was 50 cm. xxi Irrigation schedules and nitrogen levels significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, quality, nutrient uptake, water use, economics and post harvest fertility status of the soil. Weekly check basin irrigation resulted in the highest values of all the growth parameters (plant height, LAI, dry matter), yield attributes (cob length, cob girth, kernel weight cob-1, test weight), yield (kernel and stover yield), NPK uptake, nitrogen use efficiency and soil available NPK, which was at par with 0.9 IW/CPE ratio through drip irrigation and all of them were at their lowest with drip irrigation at 0.7 IW/CPE ratio. Among the nitrogen levels, 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in the highest values of all the growth parameters (plant height, LAI, dry matter), yield attributes (cob length, cob girth, kernel weight cob-1, test weight) and yield (kernel and stover yield), NPK uptake and soil available NPK, which was superior over the remaining doses. However, Nitrogen use efficiency was found to be highest with 200 kg N ha-1. While, the lowest of all the above said parameters were recorded with 160 kg N ha-1, except nitrogen use efficiency, which was found to be lowest with 240 kg N ha-1. With regard to interaction effect, weekly irrigation along with 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in superior values of growth parameters, yield attributes and yield, N uptake and soil available NPK which was on par with the combination of drip irrigation at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio with 240 kg N ha-1. Drip irrigation at 0.7 IW/CPE ratio with 160 kg N ha-1 recorded the lowest values of growth parameters, yield attributes and yield, N uptake and soil available NPK. Protein content in maize kernel was highest with drip irrigation scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio, which was at par with weekly check basin irrigation. Starch content was found to be highest with weekly irrigation schedule. Among the nitrogen levels, 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in highest protein content whereas, starch content was not significantly influenced by the nitrogen levels. The lowest protein and starch content were resulted with drip irrigation at 0.7 IW/CPE ratio. Application of nitrogen at 160 kg ha-1 resulted in the lowest protein content. Crop evapotranspiration and moisture extraction pattern were observed to be highest with check basin irrigation scheduled at weekly intervals. Among the nitrogen levels, 240 kg N ha-1 recorded the highest levels of above parameters. Water use efficiency and water productivity found to be highest with drip irrigation scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio which was at par with 0.8 IW/CPE ratio, in main plots and in 240 kg N ha-1 in sub plots. Pertaining to interaction effect, weekly check basin irrigation coupled with 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in the highest ETc while, the highest water use efficiency and water productivity was noticed with the combination of drip xxii irrigation scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio and 240 kg N ha-1. The lower values of ETc, moisture extraction pattern and water use efficiency were registered with drip irrigation at 0.7 IW/CPE ratio in main plots and with 160 kg N ha-1 in sub plot treatments. While, the lowest water productivity was obtained with weekly check basin irrigation and with 160 kg N ha-1 among nitrogen levels. The higher gross returns were realized with weekly check basin irrigation schedule, whereas, the net returns and returns per rupee invested was higher with drip irrigation scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio. Among the nitrogen levels, 240 kg N ha-1 resulted in higher gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee invested. Weekly check basin irrigation along with 240 kg N ha-1 registered higher gross returns, while the net returns and returns per rupee invested were higher when irrigation was scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio through drip along with 240 kg N ha-1. The lowest monetary returns were realized with irrigation schedule of 0.7 IW/CPE ratio and with nitrogen level of 160 kg N ha-1. All the above said parameters (growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, quality parameters, ETc, water use efficiency, water productivity, NPK uptake, nitrogen use efficiency, soil available NPK and economic returns) were at their lowest with no residue incorporation as against maize grown with greengram crop residue incorporation. Based on the outcome of the investigation, it could be inferred that for maximum yield, monetary returns and water productivity under limited water conditions, drip irrigation scheduled at 0.9 IW/CPE ratio coupled with 240 kg N ha-1 is the better combination. Growing greengram, as a preceding crop and using it for residue incorporation after realizing the economic produce will be a promising option for maintaining soil fertility status along with more returns per rupee invested.
Open Access
EFFECT OF PRECEDING LEGUMES, NITROGEN LEVELS AND IRRIGATION SCHEDULES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF RABI SORGHUM
(Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2015) BALAZZII NAAIIK, RVT; PRABHAKARA REDDY, G
A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years during 2012 and 2013 at Indian Institute of Millets Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad to study the “Effect of preceding legumes, nitrogen levels and irrigation schedules on the performance of rabi sorghum” in strip – split plot design with three replications. Four strips of treatments including dhaincha, greengram and cowpea raised as preceding kharif legumes along with fallow are taken as main plot treatments. During rabi, sorghum was grown in split plot design taking strips of .kharif crops as main plots, four irrigation schedules (I1: Irrigation at panicle initiation, I2: Irrigation at panicle initiation and booting, I3: Irrigation at panicle initiation, booting and anthesis and I4: Irrigation at panicle initiation, booting, anthesis and milk stages) assigned to sub – plots and four nitrogen levels (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1) to sub – sub plots. Dhaincha was grown till the commencement of flowering and then incorporated in situ. The greengram pods were picked for seed and haulms were then turned down into the soil. The cowpea foliage was harvested for fodder and the stubbles were incorporated. The test variety of sorghum was Phule Suchitra (SPV-2048). The results indicated that among the kharif legumes tested, greengram produced more economic yield in addition to the haulms for incorporation after harvest. Higher biomass was produced by dhaincha grown for green manure during both the years. Author : RVT. BALAZZII NAAIIK Title of the thesis : EFFECT OF PRECEDING LEGUMES, NITROGEN LEVELS AND IRRIGATION SCHEDULES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF RABI SORGHUM Degree : DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN AGRICULTURE Faculty : AGRICULTURE Discipline : AGRONOMY Chairperson : Dr. G. PRABHAKARA REDDY University : ACHARYA N.G. RANGA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSTY Year of submission : 2015 ______________________________________________________________________ xvii Preceding kharif legumes, irrigation schedules and nitrogen levels noticeably altered the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake and economic returns of sorghum as well as the post harvest fertility status of soil, with similar trend during both the years of study. However, the interactions were not significant except on number of grains panicle-1 and earhead weight. Significantly taller plants, larger LAI and higher dry matter production of rabi sorghum was with dhaincha - rabi sorghum followed by greengram – rabi sorghum. The least values for all the above parameters were obtained with fallow – rabi sorghum. Scheduling irrigation at four critical stages i.e. panicle initiation, booting, anthesis and milk stage recorded the higher values of above growth parameters which was significantly superior compared to the other irrigation schedules. Irrigation only at panicle initiation resulted in the lowest values. Application of 90 kg N ha-1 recorded significantly higher values of above growth parameters among the different levels of nitrogen tested. Sorghum preceded by dhaincha recorded higher values of yield attributes, viz., length of the panicle, number of grains panicle-1, earhead weight and thousand grain weight which was, however, on par with the crop preceded by greengram. The least values of all the above parameters were obtained with fallow – rabi sorghum. Irrigating the crop at four critical stages recorded the higher values of above yield parameters which was significantly superior compared to the other irrigation schedules. Irrigation only at panicle initiation resulted in the lowest values. With regard to interaction, higher number of grains panicle-1 and earhead weight was with crop preceded by dhaincha along with four irrigations at critical stages. Application of 90 kg N ha-1 recorded significantly higher values of above yield attributes, which was, however, on par with 60 kg N ha-1. Lowest values were recorded with no nitrogen. Significantly higher grain yield of sorghum was obtained by incorporation of dhaincha. Lowest grain yield was with sorghum when grown after kharif fallow. Grain yield of rabi sorghum was comparable to the crop grown after cowpea for fodder or greengram for seed. Irrigation to rabi sorghum at four critical stages recorded the significantly higher grain yield among the different irrigation schedules tested. Irrigating the crop at three critical stages was the next best treatment. The crop with only one irrigation at panicle initiation recorded the lowest grain yield. Application of 90 kg N ha-1 recorded higher grain yield, which was however on par with 60 kg N ha-1. Lowest grain yield of rabi sorghum was with no nitrogen. The green manure of dhaincha enabled rabi sorghum to take up more nitrogen from 60 DAS till harvest during the both years. A significant increase in the uptake of nitrogen was recorded by the crop at 90 DAS and by both grain and stover at harvest due to the influence of the green manure xviii of dhaincha. Irrigations at four critical stages viz., panicle initiation, boot leaf, anthesis and milk stage further enhanced the uptake of NPK during both the years. The uptake by grain and stover increased with increase in the number of irrigations from one to four. Higher uptake of nutrients was due to the application of 90 kg N ha-1at any stage of crop growth. Higher nitrogen use efficiency of 14.0 and 15.4 kg grain kg-1 N during 2012 and 2013 was due to the application of 30 kg N ha-1to sorghum preceded by dhaincha and irrigations at four critical stages viz., panicle initiation, boot leaf, anthesis and milk stage during 2012 and 2013. The nitrogen use efficiency reduced at higher levels of nitrogen application. Maximum profit was obtained from rabi sorghum preceded by greengram, fertilized with 60 kg N ha-1 and irrigated at all the 4 critical stages of moisture sensitivity despite more expenses on the cost of cultivation. The returns from the grain yield of greengram compensated the additional expenses on its cultivation over dhaincha. From the present investigation, it could be inferred that rabi sorghum preceded by dhaincha for green manure or greengram for seed with four irrigations at critical phases of panicle initiation, booting, anthesis and milk stage along with application of 60 kg N ha-1 has resulted in higher yield, more economic returns, post harvest nutrient status duly maintaining the soil health with higher microbial population in the soil.

Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur (AP)

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