Influence of organic manures alone or in combination with inorganic fertilizer on productivity of winter drilled fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Effect of organic manures [castor cake, mustard cake and farmyard manure (FYM)] alone or in combination with inorganic fertilizers was studied during 1997–98 to 1999–2000 on yield, quality and economics of winter fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) at Main Spices Research Station, Jagudan. Maximum seed yield and its attributes were obtained when recommended fertilizer dose applied through inorganic fertilizer. Different organic manures (castor cake, mustard cake and FYM) were equally effective and gave significantly lower seed yield than that with inorganic fertilizer. Application of different organic manures alone or mix with inorganic fertilizers significantly improved the oil content of fennel (1.56 to 1.64%). The highest net profit (Rs/ha 70, 139) and benefit: cost ratio (4.13) were obtained when recommended dose of fertilizer applied in the form of chemical fertilizers. However, on the basis of premium price of organic product, recommended fertilizer dose applied through FYM alone recorded the maximum net realization 90, 393 (Rs/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1:5.14).