Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur

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
CROP RESIDUE AND NITROGEN MANAGEMENT IN PULSE-MAIZE SEQUENCE
(Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2019) PADMA, S; SREE REKHA, M
A field study on “Crop residue and nitrogen management in pulsemaize sequence” was conducted over two years (2017-18 and 2018-19) on clay soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The experimental trial was conducted in split-split plot design, replicated thrice with P1-cowpea, P2blackgram, P3-greengram and P4-fallow as four main plots during kharif season. The main plots were divided into three subplots after the harvest of pulses viz., R1-residue retained, R2-residue incorporated and R3-residue removed. Each residue management sub plots were further subdivided into sub-sub plots with four nitrogen levels to maize i.e., N1-75% RDN, N2-100% RDN, N3-125% RDN and N4-150% RDN. Among pulses cowpea produced higher seed and haulm yields during the two years trial when compared to blackgram and greengram. The soil microbial count enhanced in the plots where pulses were included and the higher values were with cowpea. The undecomposed crop residue by litter bag method was lesser for blackgram and greengram as compared to cowpea and fallow. Residue retained plots had greater undecomposed matter than residue incorporated plots. The plant height at various stages of plant growth from 30 DAS till harvest for rabi maize was remarkably higher with preceding cowpea than blackgram-maize, greengram-maize sequence and fallow-maize plots. However, the plant height during 2018-19 at 90DAS and at harvest for rabi maize remained comparable for preceded cowpea and greengram. Dry matter accumulation was not affected by preceding pulses. The plant height and drymatter accumulation were enhanced in residue retention plots and remained xvi comparable with residue incorporated plots. Nitrogen @150% RDN has resulted marked increase in growth characters i.e plant height and drymatter accumulation. The interaction effect of preceding pulses and nitrogen levels has significant on drymatter at harvest during 2017-18. Days to 50% tasseling and days to 50% silking were not influenced by preceding pulses and residue management while 150% nitrogen resulted in earlier tasseling and silking. Leaf relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) was higher in maize preceded with cowpea, residue retained and 150% nitrogen at 50% tasseling and 50% silking during both the years of study. Cob length, number of kernel rows cob-1, number of kernels row-1, number of kernels cob-1, kernel weight cob-1 and 100- kernel weight of rabi maize were enhanced in cowpea as preceding crop and remained comparable with blackgram-maize and greengram-maize sequence than fallow-maize. Residue retention plots had higher values for all yield attributing characters and remained comparable with residue incorporated plots. Incremental enhancement in nitrogen resulted in remarkably increased values of yield attributing characters among which 150% RDN proved its significant and superior over other levels during both the years of study. Shelling percentage was not affected by preceding pulses, residue management and nitrogen levels. Kernel and stover yields of maize were markedly enhanced with preceding cowpea, residue retained plots and nitrogen @ 150%. Interaction for pulses (P) and nitrogen levels (N) during 2017-18 and interaction for residue management (R) and nitrogen levels (N) were found to be significant during 2018-19 for kernel yield of maize. The nitrogen content was influenced by nitrogen levels but not by preceding pulses and residue management. The uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by both kernel and stover along with total uptake were higher in maize preceding with cowpea, residue retained plots and nitrogen @ 150% RDN. Soil available N, P2O5 and K2O were higher in preceding pulse crops, residue retained and incorporated plots. Increased nitrogen levels (150% RDN) had higher values of post harvest soil available N, P2O5 and K2O during both the years of study. The total maize equivalent yield was higher in preceding blackgram during 2017-18 while it was with preceding greengram during 2018-19. 150% RDN with residue retention had higher values of total maize equivalent yield. The higher gross return, BCR, net return and return per rupee investment were noticed with cowpea-maize sequence wherein residue retained plots with nitrogen application @ 150% RDN to maize. From the above, it can be inferred that maize with preceding cowpea residue retention can be adopted in Krishna agro-climatic zone of Andhra Pradesh for higher profitability along with nitrogen @150% RDN to maize.
Open Access
RESPONSE OF RICE-SORGHUM CROPPING SEQUENCE TO PREVAILING WEATHER AND NITROGEN LEVELS
(ACHARYA N G RANGA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, GUNTUR, 2019) VIBHAJAM SAGAL KIRAN, B; RADHA KRISHNA MURTHY, V
A field experiment entitled “Response of rice sorghum cropping sequence to prevailing weather and nitrogen levels” was conducted for two consecutive years (2017-18 and 2018-19) on clay loam soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The soil pH was slightly alkaline in reaction, medium in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen, medium to high in available phosphorus and high in potassium. The kharif experiments on rice consisted of three varieties viz., NLR145(V1), BPT-5204(V2) and NLR-34449(V3); as main plot treatments. Four nitrogen levels to rice viz., 60 kg N ha-1 (N1), 80 kg N ha-1 (N2), 100 kg N ha-1 (N3) and 120 kg N ha-1 (N4) as sub plot treatments. All the treatments were randomly allocated in three replications in a split plot design for kharif seasons. The rice crop was sown as direct seeded rice. The kharif imposed treatments were evaluated rabi seasons with RBD design in both the years of study on sorghum grown as sequence. Data collected on growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake of rice and economic returns were subjected to statistical analysis which indicated that all the characters studied were significantly higher with the rice variety BPT-5204 with the application of 120 kg N ha-1. Whereas, significantly lower values were observed with rice variety NLR-34449 with application of 60 kg N ha-1 during both the years of study and in pooled data. xxiv A significant interaction between varieties and levels of nitrogen in rice was observed for drymatter accumulation at 90DAS during both the years, number of panicles m-2 during 1st year of study and grain yield during both the years with the treatmental combination of variety BPT-5204 and 120 kg N ha-1 and significantly superior to other treatmental combinations. Higher values of all weather health indices/climatic normals viz., GDD, HTU, PTU, TPR, HUE, HtUE, PtUE, PTI and RUE were recorded with variety BPT-5204(V1) followed by NLR-145 and NLR-34449 during both the years of study. Among the nitrogen levels, application of 120 kg N ha-1 recorded the optimum values of all weather health indices during both the years of study. The influence of weather health indices was found to be optimum to produce highest yields. Significant linear relationship was observed for drymatter and grain yield of all the three varieties and four nitrogen levels tested with weather health indices viz., GDD, HTU, PTU, TPR, HUE, HtUE, PtUE, and PTI during both the years of study. These regression equations could be applied to predict rice growth and yield using daily information on temperature, photoperiod, day length and sunshine hours during the crop season, to predict rice yields grown under different N levels. Significant and negative correlation was observed with the rice grain yield and micrometeorological parameters viz., canopy air temperature, canopy temperature and soil temperature for both the years of study and regression equations could be applied to predict rice yields under different nitrogen levels Growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield, stover yield, nitrogen uptake and economic returns of zero till sorghum were influenced significantly by sorghum crop sown after the harvest of rice variety NLR-34449 and was on par with the variety NLR-145 and among the residual effect of nitrogen levels indicated that 120 kg N ha-1 resulted significantly superior over to residual treatments. The availability of N, P and K status after harvest of sorghum decreased due to high uptake of nutrients during both the years of study. The rice crop in both the years experienced 27.10C- 32.20C and 1 to 6 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during vegetative stages; 26.60C-29.80C and 1 to 6 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during reproductive phase and 22.40C26.30C and 4 to 6 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during maturity phases. The sorghum crop in both the years experienced 21.80C- 23.70C and 4 to 7 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during vegetative stages, 22.80C-28.10C and 6 to 8 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during reproductive phase and 27.60C-29.30C and 8 to 9 hrs day-1 bright sunshine hours during maturity phases. These are found to be most congenial and optimum for rice–sorghum crop sequence. The production potential was higher in rice-sorghum cropping sequence under the above weather conditions with early date of sorghum sowing and 120 kg N ha-1 residual nitrogen. xxv Path coefficient analysis indicated that there is a direct and indirect effects of morphological parameters on grain yield of rice varieties. Step down regression analysis indicated significant relation for high yields of three rice varieties with maximum temperature at vegetative stage, relative humidity in the morning at maturity, relative humidity in the evening at vegetative stage, sunshine hours at reproductive stage and rainfall at reproductive and maturity. These are: Y = -70894.95+610.29(RH13)+358.19(RH21)-28.43(RF2) for NLR-145 Y = -456495.33-8517.20(MAT1)+9233.55(RH11)+20.87(RF3) for BPT-5204 Y = 73989.44-1866.96(MAT1)-1214.78(SSH2)-19.41(RF3) for NLR-34449
Open Access
NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT INTERVENTIONS IN RICE - RAGI SEQUENCE
(Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2019) KIRAN KUMAR, SINGUPURAPU; PULLA RAO, Ch
A field experiment entitled “Nutrient Management Interventions in Rice- Ragi Sequence” was conducted during kharif and rabi seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19 on sandy loam soil of the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The seven treatments consisted of T1 : 100% RDF (100-60-40 kg N-P-K ha-1) ; T2: 100% RDF+ Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 ; T3: 125% RDF+ Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1; T4: 75% RDF+ Poultry manure @ 0.82 t ha1 + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1; T5: 75% RDF+ FYM @ 5.0 t ha-1 + Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1; T6: 50% RDF+ Poultry manure @1.6 t ha-1+ Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50kg ha-1 and T7: 50% RDF+ FYM @ 10 t ha-1+ Soil application of ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with seven treatments and replicated thrice during kharif rice and in rabi each kharif treatment was sub divided into four sub treatments and hence, The split plot design was adopted in rabi. Total No. of plots per each replication in the rabi was 28 (7x4= 28). The results indicated that, increased levels of organic and inorganics had a significant influence on increased plant height and drymatter production. Application of 50 % RDF + FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 recorded the highest plant height and drymatter production consistently at 30 DAT, 60 DAT, 90 DAT and harvest stages of kharif rice. During rabi ragi, the residual fertility and fertiliser levels had a significant influence on the plant height during both the years of study. Among the fertilizer levels S2 (100% RDF) recorded highest plant height and drymatter production of ragi in the both the years of study and in pooled data. xx Number of tillers m-2 differed significantly among the treatments. The highest number of tillers m-2 at all the growth stages of both the crops (kharif rice and rabi ragi) were recorded with 50 % RDF + FYM @ 10 t ha-1 +ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 in kharif and 100 % RDF in rabi respectively. No. of leaves, chlorophyll content and LAI of rice at different phenophases were highest with the application of 125 % RDF along with 50 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 All the yield attributes viz., number of productive tillers m-2, total number of grains panicle-1, filled grains panicle-1, test weight (g/1000 grain), spikelet sterility, grain, straw yield and harvest index were significantly influenced by different treatments. Highest number of productive tillers m-2, total number of filled grains panicle-1, grain, straw yield with T7 treatment. Significantly highest test weight was recorded with T7 treatment. However, this was remained on par with T3. All the quality parameters, cooking quality and milling quality of rice did not differ significantly among the treatments in rice during both the years of study. Nutrient content and uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and zinc have increased significantly with the fertility levels and organics. 50 % RDF+ FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 recorded the highest nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and zinc contents at different growth stages and in grain and straw of rice. Post harvest available soil N, P, K and zinc status in the soil was recorded higher with the treatments received both organics and inorganics. The highest gross returns and net returns were recorded due to the application of 50 % RDF+ FYM @ 10 t ha -1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1. Among all the treatments, highest returns per rupee investment was also obtained with the application of 50 % RDF+ FYM @ 10 t ha -1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 (T7). Lowest bulk density after harvest of the rice crop was recorded with all the organic manured plots. However, all the seven treatments were remained on par with one and another. In rabi ragi, all the growth parameters like plant height, No. of tillers and drymatter production at different growth stages were recorded the highest in the sub treatment, S2 which received 100 % RDF. Yield attributes and yield of ragi was also followed similar trend during both the years of study and all these parameters were recorded significantly the highest with 100 % RDF (S2) over the rest treatments. The sub treatments S3 (75 % RDF) and S4 (50 % RDF) were remained on par with each other. Nutrient content and uptake of N,P,K and Zn by ragi crop at all the growth stages including grain and straw were found to be significantly superior with 100 % RDF (S2) to the rest of the treatments. xxi Highest gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee invested were obtained with T7S2 which received 50 % RDF+ FYM @ 10 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 as residual treatment and 100% RDF as fertilizer level to the succeeding ragi under no-till condition. From the above, it can be concluded that application of application of 50% RDF through inorganic fertilizer + FYM @10 t ha-1 + ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 closely followed by 125% RDF+ ZnSO4 @ 50 kg ha-1 recorded higher growth, yield parameters, grain and straw yields and nutrient uptake of kharif rice in both the years of study. While, fertilizer levels in rabi ragi, 100 % RDF (30-30-20 kg NPK ha1) was recorded higher growth, yield parameters, grain and straw yields, nutrient uptake and more economical during the both the years of experimentation and in pooled data as well.
Open Access
SYSTEM PRODUCTIVITY AND PHOSPHORUS MANAGEMENT IN PEARL MILLET-PULSE SEQUENCE
(ACHARYA N G RANGA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, GUNTUR, 2019) SOWJANYA, ALETI; PULLA RAO, Ch
A field experiment entitled “System Productivity and Phosphorus Management in Pearl millet-Pulse Sequence” was conducted for two consecutive years (2017-18 and 2018-19) on clay soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The soil of the experimental field was clay, neutral in reaction, medium in organic C content, low in available N, medium in available P and high in K. The experiment consisted of seven phosphorus management treatments viz., T1; control (no phosphorous), T2; 50 % Recommended dose of Phosphorus (RDP), T3; 75 % Recommended dose of Phosphorus, T4; 100% Recommended dose of Phosphorus (30 kg ha-1), T5; 50 % Recommended dose of Phosphorus + Seed inoculation with phosphate solubilizing biofertilizer @ 200 g per 10 kg seed, T6; 75 % Recommended dose of Phosphorus + Seed inoculation with phosphate solubilizing biofertilizer @ 200 g per 10 kg seed, T7; 100% Recommended dose of Phosphorus + Seed inoculation with phosphate solubilizing biofertilizer @ 200 g per 10 kg seed and these treatments were imposed to pearl millet.during kharif while in rabi, each of the kharif treatmental plot was subdivided into three plots to accommodate three different pulses viz., blackgram, greengram and chickpea. Thus, for rabi season study, residual phosphorus management practices were considered as main plot treatments and the three pulse crops as sub plot treatments. All the treatments were randomly allocated in three replications with Randomized block design for kharif season and Spit-plot design for rabi season in both the years of study. The cultivars tested for pearl millet, blackgram, greengram and chickpea were Rana, LBG-752, IPM 2-14 and JG-11, respectively. The influence of different phosphorus management practices combined with PSB exhibited significant influence on all growth characters of pearl millet viz., plant height, dry matter production, LAI, CGR, RGR and NAR and yield attributes and yield of pearl millet with similar trend in the both years of study. SPAD chlorophyll meter values, test weight and harvest index were not significantly different. xviii Application of 100 % RDP + seed inoculation with PSB (T7) produced the taller plants, maximum drymatter production, LAI, CGR, RGR and NAR at all growth stages but with regards to LAI, CGR, RGR and NAR were irrespective of treatment, increased upto 60 DAS and thereafter decreased. The highest number of productive tillers and earhead length were also followed similar trend as that of growth parameters. The treatment T7 was statistically comparable to T4 (100 % RDP) in all growth and yield attributing parameters of pearl millet. Significantly the highest yield (grain and stover) of pearl millet and also higher nutrient uptake (NPK) was obtained with T7 (100 % RDP + seed inoculation with PSB) and T4 (100 % RDP) and both were found to be on par with each other during both years of study, followed by T6 (75 % RDP + seed inoculation with PSB), which was at par with T4 .The lowest was observed with control (T1). Maximum available post harvest nutrient status (NPK), higher microbial population (total bacteria, fungal and rhizobium) counts per gram of soil and net returns were recorded with 100 % RDP+ seed inoculation with PSB (T7) and closely followed by T4 (100 % RDP). Plant height, drymatter production, yield parameters and yield of rabi pulses were significantly influenced due to residual phosphorus management practices which were imposed to kharif pearl millet. Among the different treatments, the treatment which received 100 % RDP + seed inoculation with PSB (M7) had maximum residual affect on rabi pulses which was recorded the significantly higher growth, yield attributes and yield of pulses and it was comparable to 100 % RDP (M4). Where as, in among three pulses, highest growth attributes were produced by green gram, but chickpea had produced maximum yield followed by greengram. The maximum nutrient (NPK) uptake, post harvest soil nutrient status and microbial populations were registered with the residual effect of P supplied with 100 % RDP + seed inoculation with PSB and 100 % RDP. While, the significantly lowest observations were observed with control (M1- no phosphorus). Among the three crops, chickpea had recorded the maximum uptake in grain, while maximum uptake of haulm was obtained by greengram, where as, blackgram left the maximum soil fertility status at higher level than other remaining two crops. Similarly, the higher microbial populations were recorded after harvest greengram which closely followed by blackgram and chickpea. Significantly the highest returns, returns per rupee investment and pearl millet equivalent yields (PMEY) were recorded with maximum residual P affect of 100 % RDP+ PSB (M7) followed by 100 % RDP (M4) . Among the three crops, chickpea had produced maximum returns and PMEY closely followed by greengram. From the two years study, it can be concluded that application of 100 % RDP along with seed inoculation with PSB had recorded maximum direct effect on pearl millet and also residual effect on rabi pulses and it was statistically at par with 100% RDP. Among the three cropping systems studied, pearl millet- chickpea was found to be more productive and economical cropping systems which was closely followed by pearl millet-greengram.
Open Access
PHOSPHORUS AND SULPHUR MANAGEMENT IN SUNFLOWER
(ACHARYA N G RANGA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, GUNTUR, 2019) FARHAT KOUSAR, MOHAMMAD; VISALAKSHI DEVI, P.A
A field experiment entitled “Phosphorus and sulphur management in sunflower” was conducted at the Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla, during rabi, 2018. The experimental soil was neutral in reaction, non-saline, medium in organic carbon, available N, available P2O5, available K2O and deficient in sulphur. The soil was sufficient in all the cationic micronutrients except zinc and manganese. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with factorial concept replicated thrice with ten treatments. The treatments comprising of three levels each of phosphorus (45, 90 and 135 kg P2O5 ha-1) and three levels of sulphur (10, 20 and 30 kg S ha-1) with a single control. A uniform dose of 75 kg N and 30 kg K2O ha-1 was applied through urea and muriate of potash as basal dose to all the plots. Phosphorus and sulphur were applied through di-ammonium phosphate and elemental sulphur as per required P and S levels. Nitrogen was applied through urea, after deducting the nitrogen supplied through di-ammonium phosphate. Phosphorus, potassium and sulphur were applied as basal dose while nitrogen was applied in two splits i.e., one as basal and other at flowering stage. The influence of different levels of phosphorus and sulphur on growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nutrient content, uptake and soil properties (physicochemical properties and available nutrient status) were determined by standard procedures at different stages. The growth parameters viz., plant height, dry matter accumulation and chlorophyll content were significantly influenced by phosphorus and sulphur levels but there was no significant interaction among different phosphorus and sulphur levels at all the growth stages. Significant improvement in growth parameters were recorded xvi with application of 135 kg P2O5 ha-1 over 0 and 45 kg P2O5 ha-1 but was on par with 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 while, application of 30 kg S ha-1 showed significant improvement on growth parameters over 0, 10 and 20 kg S ha-1. The yield attributes (head diameter and filled seeds) and yield (seed and stover yield) increased upto the highest levels of phosphorus but were significant only upto 90 kg P2O5 ha-1. With regard to sulphur levels application of 30 kg S ha-1 recorded significantly higher yield attributes and yield. The treatment application of 135 kg P2O5 ha-1 being on par with 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 recorded significantly higher oil content and yield over 0 and 45 kg P2O5 ha-1. With respect to sulphur levels, the highest oil content and yield were obtained with application of 30 kg S ha-1. Nutrient content and uptake of N, P, K and S was significantly higher with application of 135 kg P2O5 ha-1 over 0 and 45 kg P2O5 ha-1 but was on par with 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 whereas, the application of 30 kg S ha-1 recorded significantly higher nutrient content over 0, 10 and 20 kg S ha-1. The micronutrient content (viz., Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) and uptake was not significantly influenced by phosphorus levels but showed significant improvement with sulphur levels. The soil properties viz., pH, EC, available N, K and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn) were not significantly influenced by different phosphorus and sulphur levels but showed significant influence on phosphorus and sulphur status in soil with application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 30 kg S ha-1. Overall, the study indicated that application of 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 and 30 kg S ha-1 was significantly superior in plant growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, plant nutrient content, uptake and soil available phosphorus and sulphur in sunflower.
Open Access
PHOSPHORUS MANAGEMENT IN RICE - GROUNDNUT SEQUENCE
(ACHARYA N G RANGA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, GUNTUR, 2019) VENKATA LAKSHMI, M; PULLA RAO, Ch
A field experiment entitled “Phosphorus management in rice-groundnut sequence.” was conducted for two consecutive years (2016-2017 and 20172018) on sandy loam soil of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The investigation was carried out in kharif and rabi seasons and kharif rice experiment was laid out in split plot design with twelve treatments replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of twelve, different sources of phosphorus Viz.,S1 : Inorganic fertilizer through SSP, S2 : Green manuring in-situ with dhaincha @ 25 kg ha-1, S3: Biofertilizer (PSB) @ 750 ml ha-1, S4 : Green manuring in-situ with dhaincha @ 25 kg ha-1 + Biofertilizer (PSB) @ 750 ml ha1 as main treatment plots. The sub plot treatments include levels of phosphorus Viz., L1: 50% Recommended dose of P, L2 : 100% Recommended dose of P and L3 : 150% Recommended dose of P. The rabi experiment was laid out on the same site in a Split-split plot design for succeeding groundnut crop and each of the kharif sub plot was divided into three sub-sub plots to receive three doses of phosphorus (F1 : control, F2 : 50% RDP and F3 : 100% RDP) to each plot. The experiment on rice-groundnut sequence as detailed above was conducted during kharif & rabi of 2017-18 on a separate site with similar properties. Popular cultivars of rice and groundnut, BPT-5204 and TAG-24, respectively were chosen for the study. Data collected on growth parameters (plant height, drymatter accumulation), yield attributes, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, nutrient uptake and economics of rice were subjected to statistical analysis. The results xviii indicated that all the characters studied were significantly influenced with application of in-situ green manuring + PSB, however it was on a par with that of in-situ green manuring alone whereas lower values observed with the application of inorganic fertilizer phosphorus through SSP and soil application of PSB during both the years and pooled data of study. Among the levels, 150 % RDP significantly influenced growth and yield parameters of rice. However, it was on par with 100 % RDP over 50 % RDP during both the years of data and in pooled data. Physical and nutritional (quality) characters of rice grain like amylose content, volume expansion ratio and protein content were significantly influenced by sources and levels of phosphorus. Whereas, milling quality parameters like hulling and milling percentages were not significantly influenced by sources and levels of phosphorus. In general, the available N, P and K status after harvest of each cropping sequence was lower with in-situ green manuring + biofertilizer (PSB) and 100% P level than the other combinations of sources and levels of phosphorus due to high uptake of nutrients by the crop during both the years of study. Growth parameters, yield attributes, pod yield, nutrient uptake and economic returns of groundnut were significantly influenced by different combinations of sources and levels of phosphorus to preceding rice. Regarding doses of phosphorus to groundnut, 100 % RDP (F3) was significantly superior to control (F1) and found on par with 50 % RDP (F2) during both the years and pooled data of study. Sources and levels of phosphorus in kharif rice, phosphorus doses imposed to succeeding groundnut (F0 to F100), 100 % RDP treatment increased the pod yield significantly in 1st, 2nd year and pooled data of study i.e. 1698, 1865 and 1781kg ha-1 respectively and was on a par with 50% RDP. Hence, 50% RDP may be sufficient for rice - groundnut system.The maximum pod yield of groundnut i.e. 1860, 2080 and 1970 kg ha-1 was recorded with the residual affect of in-situ green manuring + biofertilizer (PSB) applied to preceding rice crop during both the years and pooled data. The higher gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee investment were obtained with in-situ green manuring + biofertilizer (PSB), followed by insitu green manuring applied to kharif rice crop and 100% RDP imposed to rabi groundnut and was on a par with 50% RDP. Overall, the field studies conducted for two consecutive years clearly indicated that in-situ green manuring along with PSB application and in-situ green manuring alone to rice in rice - groundnut sequence has significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributes and thus yield of rice and groundnut. Residual effect of in-situ green manure + PSB and 100 % RDP to preceding rice crop, the succeeding rice–groundnut system needs 50% RDP for realizing higher yields. Hence, rice-groundnut is the profitable cropping sequence of this region.
Open Access
PRODUCTIVITY AND WATER USE EFFICIENCY OF RICE (Oryza sativa L.) CULTIVARS UNDER DIFFERENT IRRIGATION REGIMES AND SYSTEMS OF CULTIVATION
(Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2019) VENKATARAVANA NAYAKA, G.V; PRABHAKARA REDDY, G
A field experiment was conducted on a clay loam soil at Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR) formerly Directorate of Rice Research (DRR), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the kharif seasons of 2017 and 2018 to study the “Productivity and water use efficiency of rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars under different irrigation regimes and systems of cultivation”. The treatments consisted of two irrigation regimes viz., alternate wetting and drying (AWD) and saturation as main plot treatments, three systems of cultivation viz., system of rice intensification (SRI), drum seeding (DS) and normal transplanting (NTP) as sub plot treatments and four cultivars namely DRR Dhan 42, DRR Dhan 43, MTU-1010 and NLR-34449 as sub-sub plot treatments laid out in split-split plot design with three replications and comprises of 24 treatment combinations. Growth and physiological parameters were measured at periodical intervals and yield attributes were recorded at harvest. Quantity of irrigation water applied, effective rainfall, water productivity and water use efficiency were measured. Nutrient uptake at 30, 60, 90 DAS/DAT and at harvest (grain and straw) was estimated and expressed as total NPK uptake. N, P and K use efficiency was estimated. Soil available nutrient status (kg ha-1) after harvest of rice was also determined. Economics and energetics of rice cultivation were quantified. The data generated on different aspects in this study in response of crop to different irrigation regimes, systems of cultivation and rice cultivars were analyzed through standard statistical methods and logical conclusions were drawn. Between the irrigation regimes plant height (cm), number of tillers m-2, dry matter production (kg ha-1), root dry weight (g m-2), leaf area index were significantly higher in alternate wetting and drying method as compared to saturation at all the growth stages. AWD method took 2-3 days earlier to attain 50 per cent flowering. AWD recorded significantly higher SPAD xix chlorophyll meter readings, relative water content (%), specific leaf area (cm2 g-1) during both the years. Significantly higher CGR from 30-60 DAS/DAT, 60-90 DAS/DAT and 90 DAS/DAT- harvest was recorded in AWD during 2017 and 2018 as compared to saturation. Among the different systems of cultivation, SRI resulted in taller plants at all the crop growth stages. The number of tillers m-2 increased up to 60 DAS/DAT there after decreased up to harvest in all the establishment methods. Significantly higher DMP was noticed in system of rice intensification at 30, 60, 90 DAT and at harvest. SRI method noticed significantly superior LAI as compared to NTP and DS during 2017 and 2018 at 60, 90 DAS/DAT and at harvest, but not significantly different at 30 DAS/DAT. Significantly lower plant height, number of tillers, DMP and leaf area index were recorded in NTP at every crop growth stage. Days to 50 per cent flowering were early by 8 - 10 days in drum seeding method and 5 - 6 days early in SRI method as compared to NTP. SRI method recorded significantly superior SPAD chlorophyll meter readings, relative water content (%) and specific leaf area (cm2 g-1) as compared to normal transplanting and drum seeding during 2017 and 2018. Among the establishment methods higher CGR values were recorded in SRI than normal transplanting and drum seeding during 2017 and 2018. The RGR was not appreciably influenced by different systems of rice cultivation. Among the different rice cultivars, the highest plant height (cm), number of tillers m-2, DMP (kg ha-1), root dry weight (g m-2) and leaf area index were observed with DRR Dhan 43 throughout the study as compared to other cultivars. The cultivar NLR-34449 had taken higher number of days to attain 50 per cent flowering, whereas DRR Dhan 43 and MTU-1010 recorded lower number of days to attain 50 per cent of flowering. DRR Dhan 43 recorded significantly superior SPAD chlorophyll meter readings, relative water content (%) and specific leaf area during 2017 and 2018 over other cultivars. Significantly superior values of CGR was recorded by DRR Dhan 43 over other cultivars. All the cultivars recorded statistically similar values of RGR at all the growth stages except at 90 DAS/DAT - harvest. The number of panicles m-2, length of the panicle (cm), panicle dry weight (g), test weight (g), total number of grains panicle-1 and number of filled grains panicle-1 were significantly higher with alternate wetting and drying during both the years as compared to saturation. Significantly higher chaffy grain per cent and unfilled grains were observed with saturation. The number of panicles m-2, panicle dry weight (g), test weight (g), length of the panicle (cm), total number of grains panicle-1 and number of filled grains panicle-1 were significantly higher with SRI than other establishment methods. Number of unfilled grains panicle-1 and chaffy grain percentages were significantly higher with normal transplanting. Lower yield attributes were recorded with normal transplanting. xx Among the different rice cultivars, DRR Dhan 43 recorded significantly superior number of panicles m-2, panicle dry weight (g), test weight (g), length of the panicle (cm), total number of grains panicle-1 and number of filled grains panicle-1 than other cultivars. Number of unfilled grains panicle-1 and chaffy grain percentages were significantly higher with DRR Dhan 42. AWD irrigation practice registered enhanced grain and straw yields than saturation. SRI method registered significantly higher grain yield and straw yield than other systems of cultivation. DRR Dhan 43 noticed significantly higher grain and straw yields as compared to other cultivars during both the years of study. Among the irrigation regimes, the highest quantity of irrigation water was applied to saturation method and higher effective rainfall was recorded under AWD. Application of water through AWD method saved around 11-14 per cent of total water requirement during crop growth period. Irrigation by AWD recorded significantly superior irrigation water productivity and WUE. Among the irrigation regimes, AWD noticed significantly superior nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium uptake at 60, 90 DAS/DAT and at harvest during 2017 and 2018 as compared to saturation. Uptake of nitrogen and potassium at 30 DAS/DAT were found to be non-significant during both the years. Between irrigation regimes, AWD recorded significantly superior N, P and K use efficiency as compared to saturation. Among the systems of cultivation, SRI method required lowest amount of water (11.61 % and 13.21 % less of mean applied water than drum seeding and normal transplanting respectively). Higher effective rainfall was also recorded with SRI method. Significantly higher water productivity as well as WUE was recorded with SRI. Highest amount of water was applied under normal transplanting method. At 30 DAS/DAT, no significant differences were noticed in nitrogen and potassium uptake between SRI, NTP and DS methods during 2017 and 2018. Whereas at 60, 90 DAS/DAT and at harvest, SRI method recorded significantly superior N, P and K uptake as compared to NTP and DS during both the years. Higher NUE of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium was observed with SRI than DS and NTP methods. DRR Dhan 43 recorded higher water productivity as well as WUE as compared to other cultivars during both the years of study. N, P and K uptake was significantly higher with DRR Dhan 43 at 60, 90 DAS and harvest during both the years of study followed by MTU-1010. Among the rice cultivars higher N, P and K use efficiency was recorded in DRR Dhan 43 over other cultivars. However lower N, P and K use efficiency was noticed in DRR Dhan 42 as compared to other cultivars. AWD method recorded significantly higher gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio as compared to saturation. While saturation recorded higher cost of cultivation and higher input energy. Gross output energy, net energy and energy use efficiency (EUE) recorded were higher with AWD as compared to saturation. xxi Among the systems of cultivation higher net returns and B:C ratio were recorded in drum seeding method followed by SRI method. Normal transplanting method required higher input energy. The gross energy output, net energy and EUE recorded were significantly superior in SRI than other establishment methods. Among different rice cultivars, DRR Dhan 43 recorded significantly higher gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio as compared to other cultivars followed by MTU-1010. Whereas inferior gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio ratio were observed in DRR Dhan 42. Different rice cultivars did not show any significant effect on input energy during both the years of study. The cultivar DRR Dhan 43 recorded higher gross output energy, net energy and EUE compared to other rice cultivars. Based on the results obtained in the present investigation it can be concluded that either DRR Dhan 43 (long and bold grain type) or NLR-34449 (fine grain type) cultivars of rice can be grown under SRI or drum seeding method of sowing with alternate wetting and drying irrigation system for higher yield and economic returns.
Open Access
DIRECT AND RESIDUAL EFFECT OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC SOURCES OF NUTRIENTS ON COWPEA - LITTLE MILLET CROPPING SEQUENC
(Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2019) UMADEVI, G.D; SUMATHI, V
Present investigation entitled ‘Direct and residual effect of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on cowpea - little millet cropping sequence’ was carried out for two consecutive kharif and rabi seasons of 2017 and 2018 at S.V. Agricultural College Farm, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The treatments comprised of three organic manures viz., control, (M1) FYM @ 5 t ha-1 (M2) and poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 (M3) as main plot treatments and three phosphorus levels viz., control (P1), 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 (P2) and 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 as sub plot treatments imposed to cowpea crop during kharif season. Three nitrogen levels viz., control (S1), 10 kg N ha-1 (S2) and 20 kg N ha-1 (S3) as sub-sub plot treatments imposed to little millet during rabi season. Experimental design was split-split plot, with three replications. Application of organic manures and phosphorus levels significantly influenced the growth and yield of cowpea, but their interaction failed to influence any of the parameter of cowpea. All growth parameters like plant height, leaf area, LAI and dry matter production were higher with application of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1, which was on par with application of FYM @ 5 t ha-1. Among the phosphorus levels tried, application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 resulted in higher values of growth attributes, which was comparable with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. xix Number of pods plant-1, number of seeds pod-1, green pod yield and haulm yield of cowpea as well as nutrient removal by crop were found to be the higher with application of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1. Application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 has resulted in higher stature of all the yield attributes, yield and nutrient removal of cowpea, which was however on par with that resulted due to 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. After harvest of cowpea, higher microbial population and major available nutrients were noticed in post harvest soils where poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 was incorporated, which was however, comparable with that of farm yard manure @ 5 t ha-1. Lower microbial population and available nutrients was recorded in soil where no manure was applied. Similarly, the post harvest soil fertility status was higher with application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1, which was comparable with soils which received 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. Application of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 recorded higher gross and net returns as well as returns per rupee invested, which was however comparable with farm yard manure @ 5 t ha-1, while it was found to be the lower in plots which have not received any of the organic manure. Higher values of gross and net returns was obtained with the application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1, which was comparable to that of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. Returns per rupee invested was found to be non significant with levels of phosphorus, during both the years of study. After harvest of cowpea green pods, the entire biomass was incorporated in to the respective plots for decomposition. The higher stature of little millet growth parameters viz., plant height, leaf area, LAI, dry matter production and yield attributes was recorded with the residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 and 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 applied to preceding cowpea. Along with residual effect of organic manures and phosphorus levels, direct application of nitrogen @ 20 kg N ha-1 recorded higher stature of all growth parameters and yield attributes of little millet. Grain and straw of yields of little millet were higher due to residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 followed by FYM @ 5 t ha-1. Similarly, residual effect of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 reflected on enhanced yield of succeeding little millet, however, it was on par with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. In addition to the residual effect of manures and phosphorus levels reflected on yield of little millet, direct application of nitrogen @ 20 kg N ha-1 recorded the higher grain and straw yield. Regarding the interaction effect, where, the residual effect poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 along with 20 kg N ha-1 resulted in higher grain and straw yield of succeeding little millet. At all the stages of crop growth, higher nutrient removal was noticed with residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 application which was however, comparable with farm yard manure @ 5 t ha-1 residuality. Application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 to preceding crop recorded higher removal of nutrients, xx which was comparable with application of 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. Direct application of 20 kg N ha-1 also improved the crop nutrient removal, during both the years in little millet. During two consecutive years of study, the higher post harvest soil available microbial population and available nutrients viz., nitrogen and phosphorous was higher with residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 followed by farm yard manure @ 5 t ha-1 over no organic manure application. The above values were higher with residual effect of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 followed by 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 and was better over no phosphorus, however, potassium availability was not influenced by phosphorus levels. Direct application of 20 kg N ha-1 to little millet enhanced the post harvest soil fertility status. The gross returns, net returns and returns per rupee invested on little millet were increased due to residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 and 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 applied to preceding cowpea. However it was on par with those resulted with 40 kg P2O5 ha-1. Regarding the interaction effect, the gross and net returns of little millet was significant with combined effect of residual manures along with direct nitrogen levels, where, residual effect of poultry manure @ 2 t ha-1 with 20 kg N ha-1 resulted in higher gross and net returns of little millet. The sustainable yield index of cowpea - little millet cropping sequence indicated high sustainability with organics and phosphorus levels applied to preceding cowpea. In conclusion, the study revealed that the application of poultry manure @ 2 t and 40 kg P2O5 ha-1 resulted in higher green pod yield as well as maximum economic returns of cowpea. Organic manures and phosphorus applied to the preceding cowpea had a residual effect on succeeding little millet for its optimum performance, besides enhancing the soil health and sustainability.
Open Access
REAL TIME NITROGEN MANAGEMENT IN RABI MAIZE (Zea mays L.) USING LEAF COLOUR CHART UNDER VARIED PLANT DENSITY
(Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur, 2019) RAMESH NAIK, M; HEMALATHA, S
The present investigation entitled “Real time nitrogen management in rabi maize (Zea mays L.) using leaf colour chart under varied plant density” was carried out for two consecutive rabi seasons of 2017-18 and 2018-19 at wetland farm of S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati campus of Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University of Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot design with three replications. The treatments consisted of three planting densities viz., 66,666 plants ha-1 (P1), 83,333 plants ha-1 (P2) and 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3) assigned to the main plots, three nitrogen levels i.e. 30 kg N ha-1 (N1), 35 kg N ha-1 (N2) and 40 kg N ha-1 (N3) allotted to sub plots and three LCC threshold values viz., LCC 4 (L1), LCC 4.5 (L2) and LCC 5 (L3) as sub-sub plots. The test variety was DHM-117. Planting density, nitrogen doses and LCC threshold values significantly influenced the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, nutrient uptake, economics and post harvest soil fertility status. Significantly higher values of growth parameters (plant height, leaf area index, total dry matter production, crop growth rate) were obtained with higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3), over 83,333 plants ha-1 (P2) and 66,666 plants ha-1 (P1), during both the years of study. However, leaf area plant-1 and SPAD chlorophyll values, were found significantly higher at lower planting density of 66,666 plants ha-1 (P1). With regards to various nitrogen levels, application of 40 kg N ha-1 (N3) recorded significantly taller plants with higher dry matter accrual, which was at par with 35 kg N ha-1 (N2) and significantly superior over 30 kg N ha-1 (N1), during both the years. Higher LCC threshold value i.e. LCC 5 (L3) recorded maximum aforesaid growth parameters, followed by LCC 4.5 (L3) and LCC 4 (L1). With regard to interaction effect, planting density and nitrogen levels was found to be xix significant at 90 DAS and at harvest. The combination of higher planting density (1,11,111 plants ha-1) along with higher nitrogen level (40 kg N ha-1) produced maximum dry matter and was significantly higher over rest of the treatment combinations, however, lower dry matter production was obtained with P1N1 (66,666 plants ha-1 and 30 kg N ha-1) which was statistically comparable with P1N2 (66,666 plants ha-1 and 35 kg N ha-1). Number of days to 50 % tasseling and silking was significantly lower in maize at lower planting density of 66,666 plants ha-1 (P1) followed by 83,333 plants ha-1 (P2) and 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3). A progressive reduction in number of days to 50 % tassel and silk emergence was noticed with lower application of 30 kg N ha-1 (N1), which was however, comparable with 35 kg N ha-1 (N2) and flowering was delayed with 40 kg N ha-1 (N3). Application of nitrogen using lower LCC threshold values of LCC 4 (L1) recorded minimum days required for 50 % flowering. Maize sown with lower plant density (66,666 plants ha-1) recorded higher yield attributes i.e. number of cobs plant-1, cob length, cob girth, number of kernel rows cob-1, number of kernels row-1, number of kernels cob-1 and seed index over other two higher plant densities during both the years. Significantly higher yield viz., cob, kernel and straw yields were noticed in maize when sown at higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3) followed by planting density of 83,333 plants ha-1 (P2) and 66,666 plants ha-1 (P1). The maximum values with respect to yield attributes and yield were noticed with the application of 40 kg N ha-1 (N3) compared to rest of the nitrogen levels. Application of nitrogen using higher LCC threshold values of LCC 5 (L3) recorded maximum yield attributing characters and yield than LCC 4.5 (L3) and LCC 4 (L1). With regard to interaction, planting density, nitrogen levels and LCC threshold values were found to be non-significant with yield parameters like number of cobs plant-1 and cob length, during both the years of study. However, cob girth exerted significant interaction on planting densities with nitrogen levels (P x N) and LCC threshold values (P x L) during first year of study. Interaction of planting density and LCC threshold values was found to be significant with regard to number of kernel rows cob-1 and number of kernels row-1, however it was found to be maximum with planting density of 66,666 plants ha-1 using LCC threshold 5 (P1L3). Number of kernels cob-1 was influenced by the interaction of planting density, nitrogen levels and LCC threshold values. Maximum number of kernels row-1 and number of kernels cob-1 was recorded with the combination of lower planting density (66,666 plants ha-1) along with higher nitrogen levels (40 kg N ha-1) using LCC threshold 5 (P1N3L3), which was however statistically comparable with planting density of 83,333 plants ha-1 coupled with 40 kg N ha-1 using LCC threshold 5 (P2N3L3). During both the years of study, interaction between planting density and nitrogen levels was significant with regard to cob, kernel xx and straw yield, however, higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 along with application of 40 kg N ha-1 recorded significantly maximum yield. Uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium at various growth stages and nitrogen use efficiency was found significantly higher at higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3), which was superior to other two planting densities. Nutrient uptake at various growth stages of crop and nitrogen use efficiency increased significantly with increase in nitrogen levels from 30 to 40 kg ha-1 at different splits based on higher LCC threshold value of LCC 5 (L3). Among the interactions, planting density and nitrogen level was significant at 60 DAS, during both the years of study. Whereas, combination of higher planting density (1,11,111 plants ha-1) with higher nitrogen level (40 kg N ha-1) registered significantly higher nitrogen uptake and other interactions were non-significant. Phosphorus uptake and interaction of planting density and nitrogen level was significant during both the years however, maximum phosphorus uptake was noticed with higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 coupled with higher level of 40 kg N ha-1 (P3N3) at harvest. At harvest, during first year of study, interaction of planting density, nitrogen level and LCC threshold values was significant with respect to phosphorus uptake and it was found maximum with combination of P3N3L3. Among the various growth stages of maize interaction of all the three tested factors was found to be non-significant except at harvest between planting density and nitrogen level during both the years of study, however uptake of potassium was estimated higher at the combination of higher planting density with higher nitrogen levels (P3N3). The post harvest soil fertility status (available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) decreased significantly with higher planting density, during both the years of field investigation. There was significant improvement in soil fertility status with higher level of nitrogen (40 kg ha-1) application at different intervals using higher LCC threshold value 5 (L3). With regard to interaction, planting density and nitrogen levels was found significant with respect to available soil nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, during both the years. The combination of lower planting density and higher level of nitrogen application (P1N3) resulted in maximum status of soil fertility after harvest of the crop during both the years. However, interaction of all three tested factors was found significant with respect to potassium uptake, during the second year of study, maximum available potassium status of soil was found in the treatment combination of 66,666 plants ha-1 coupled with application of 40 kg N ha-1 using higher LCC threshold 5 (P1N3L3). The higher gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and returns per rupee invested were realized at higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 (P3). Among the nitrogen level tested, application of 40 kg N ha-1 (N3) using higher LCC threshold 5 (L3) resulted in higher gross monetary returns, net monetary returns and returns per rupee invested. With regard to interaction, during the first year of study, planting density and nitrogen level was found xxi significant with respect to gross and net monetary returns, however combination of higher planting density and higher level of nitrogen application (P3N3) registered significantly maximum gross and net monetary returns. During both years, combination of lower planting density at lower level of nitrogen (P1N1) recorded minimum economic returns. Based on the outcome of the investigation, it can be concluded that blanket recommendation or fixed time split application of nitrogen is not adequate for obtaining higher productivity and higher nitrogen use efficiency in maize. Hence, there is ample scope for increasing production and productivity of maize hybrid, with higher planting density of 1,11,111 plants ha-1 supplied with 40 kg N ha-1 as need based top dressing using LCC threshold 5 (LCC 5) along with basal application of 60 kg N ha-1.

Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University, Guntur

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