Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and economics in maize (Zea mays)-wheat (Triticum aestivum) cropping system

A long-term manurial trial initiated in 1983 at the Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi, was selected for this investigation during 1997–98 and 1998–99 to evaluate efficacy of organic sources, viz. farmyard manune (FYM), rice (Oryza sativa L.) straw and green leaves of kharif (Pongamia pinnata Pierre) in organo-inorganic combinations in maize (Zea mays L.)-wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) cropping system. At the inception of the experiment during 1983, the soil was loam in texture, slightly acidic in reaction having low organic carbon content and medium status in available N, P and K. Growth parameters, yield attributes, yield and economics of maize were the best in substitution of 25% of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) through FYM, while in wheat crop these parameters had the best reflection in treatment involving 50% substitution of RDF through FYM in maize + 100% RDF in wheat. Wheat-equivalent yield for the whole system established superiority of the 50% substitution of RDF through FYM in maize + 100% RDF in wheat, followed by 25% RDF substitution through FYM in maize + 75% RDF in wheat over all other treatments.