Yield and economic feasibility of ajwain (Trichispermi ammi) production under varying irrigation interval, nutrient levels and crop geometry

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2003–06 to study effect of irrigation and nutrient levels with varying crop geometry on growth, yield and profitability of ajwain (Trichospermi ammi). Three irrigation levels (12,15 and 18 days interval) in main plot, three nutrient levels (N+P₂O₅ each of 30 + 15, 40 + 20 and 50 +25 kg/ha, respectively) in sub plot and three crop geometries (40 x 25, 50 x 25 and 60 x 25 cm) in sub-sub plot were studied in split- split plot design with three replications. Application of irrigation at 18 days interval gave higher yield attributes viz. umbel/plant (184.32), seeds/umbellates(16.97), umbellates/umbel (17.64), test weight (2.01 g) seed yield (11.69 q/ha), net return (Rs 21885/ha) and BCR (1.15) over irrigation at 15 and 12 days interval. Significantly higher yield attributes, yield net return of Rs 20320/ha and BCR (0.97) in ajwain were obtained with application of 50 +25 kg N and 50 kg P₂O₅/ha. Crop geometry of 50 x 25 cm resulted 10 per cent higher seed yield over 40 x 25 but it was at par with 60 x 25 cm crop geometry. Thus, application of irrigation at 18 days interval with 50+25 kg N and P₂O₅/ha at 50 x 25 cm crop geometry is better for realizing higher yield, net return and profitability in ajwain production.