Effect of chemical and bio-fertilizers on productivity, profitability and quality of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) in Vertisols

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2009–10 and 2010–11 on clay loam soils at Kota (Rajasthan) to find out optimum dose of chemical fertilizers with biofertilizers for increasing the productivity, profitability and quality of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]. Application of 100% RDF(N₈₀P_17.5S₆₀) + seed inoculation with Azotobacter+ PSB (AP) significantly increased number of primary and secondary branches/plant, number of siliquae/plant, test weight, seed and stover yield, net returns (37200/ha), B: C ratio (2.64), oil content and oil yield (1,034 kg/ha) over control. Maximum uptake of nutrients (NPS) was recorded with 100% RDF + AP, in seed and stover over rest of the fertility levels. The next best fertility treatment was 100% RDF or 75% RDF + biofertilizers.