Assessing the method of application of farmyard manure on dryland crops

A study was carried out during the rainy seasons of 1994–2000 to assess the method of application of farmyard manure (FYM) on dryland crops. Application of FYM, on an average, increased the seed yield of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor(L.) Moench], sunflower (Helianthus annuus L), castor (Ricinus communis L.) and pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] by 27, 23, 36 and 30% respectively, compared, to the recommended dose of chemical fertilizer. Use of FYM in set row application gained 20, 13, 19, 19% yield increase in sorghum, sunflower, castor and pigeonpea, respectively, over broadcasting and incorporation.