Influence of organic nutrient sources on productivity of rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping systems in Jharkhand

A field experiment was conducted at Ranchi for 4 years (2004–05 to 2007–08) on a fixed site in split plot design consisting two crop sequences: basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat {Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol} and basmati rice–lentil (Lens esculenta Mocnch) in the main plots, where rice was grown after incorporation of green manure dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) and four combinations of organic sources viz. Farmyard manure (FYM) + vermicompost (VC), FYM + karanj cake (KC), VC + KC in 50: 50 ratio and VC + KC + FYM (1/3^rd each) with one absolute control in the sub plots. The productivity of rice–wheat was 21.4% higher than rice–lentil system (3.09 REY t/ha). All combinations of organic manuring were equally effective in increasing productivity of system, decreased the bulk density and increased water holding capacity, microbial population, soil fertility than the initial values as compared to control treatment over a period of four years study.