Influence of nutrient sources on growth, productivity and economics of baby corn (Zea mays)-potato (Solanum tuberosum)-mungbean (Vigna radiata) cropping system

The field experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth, yield and economics of baby corn (Zea mays L.)- potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)- mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) cropping system under different combinations of farm yard manure and bio-compost with chemical fertilizers at New Delhi during 2007–08 and 2008–09. The fertility level of N₉₀P₂₀K₂₅+ BC equivalent to 30 kg N/ha being at par with N₁₂₀P₂₆K₃₃ recorded the highest growth and yield parameters with 57.0 and 31.9% more baby corn and green fodder yield compared to control, respectively. Similarly in potato application of N₆₀P₁₇K₄₂ + BC equivalent to 60 kg N/ha recorded the highest growth and yield attributes with the maximum tuber yield of 24.2 t/ha, which was 10.5 and 49.3% higher as than 100% NPK and control, respectively. However, data of potato on residual fertility levels indicated that N₆₀P₁₃K₁₇ + FYM equivalent to 60 kg N/ha recorded the maximum growth and yield attributes; and tuber yield while, lowest values were recorded on 100% NPK application as fertilizer. Similarly, the highest values of yield attributes, seed and stover yield of mungbean were recorded under 50% RDF + 50% N through FYM applied to both baby corn and potato, which was found at par with 50% RDF + 50% N through BC and remained significantly superior over other treatments. The net returns ( 91,164/ha) and B:C ratio (1.7) of baby corn- potato-mungbean cropping system were maximum with application of 75% NPK+25% N through FYM to baby corn and 50% NPK + 25% N through FYM, respectively.