Interaction effect of sulphur and potassium on nutritional quality and profitability of brown sarson (Brassica rapa var brown sarson) in temperate Kashmir

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of four levels each of sulphur (0, 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha) and potassium (0, 30, 60, 90 kg/ha) on brown sarson (Brassica rapa var brown sarson) ‘KOS 101’ during rabi 2007–08 and 2008–09 at Regional Research Station Wadura, SKUAST-K in temperate Kashmir. Application of graded levels of sulphur and potassium progressively improved growth and yield attributes but in a decreasing order. The seed and stover yields increased linearly up to 40 kg S/ha and 60 kg K₂O/ha. Seed yield (2.03 t/ha) with 40 kg S/ha was 27.6% higher in comparison to control. Similarly, application of 60 kg K₂O/ha resulted in 35.48% higher seed yield (2.09 t/ha) than the yield obtained in control. Sulphur showed synergistic relationship with potassium. P uptake significantly increased up to 40 kg S/ha, thereafter, decreased significantly. Oil yield, oil quality and protein content also increased significantly with the application of sulphur and potassium. Percent utilization of added sulphur and potassium was maximum when lowest levels of sulphur and potassium were applied. Application of 40 kg S/ha and 60 kg K₂O/ha besides improving quality and quantity of brown sarson, also registered higher B: C ratio (1.54).