Productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris) as influenced by nutrient management in cold desert region of north-western Himalaya

A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2012 and 2013 at Kukumseri, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, to study the effect of nutrient management on productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Combined application of chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers increased growth, yield and economics of frenchbean. Application of 40 kg N/ha with and without Rhizobium and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) produced the tallest plants. Application of 20 kg N/ha followed by combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha resulted in the highest dry-matter production. Dry-matter efficiency was significantly higher in N₂₀+ biofertilizers followed by N₄₀, while unit area efficiency was also in N₂₀+ biofertilizers followed by N₄₀ and combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha. Significantly higher seed weight was recorded in N₆₀+ Rhizobium and PSB followed by N₆₀, N₄₀ and N₄₀+ Rhizobium and PSB treatments. Seeds/pod were significantly higher in N₂₀+ Rhizobium and PSB followed by combined application of biofertilizers with N₄₀ and N₆₀. The highest seed yield (3.27 t/ha), productivity (34.42 kg/ha/day), net returns (258.49 × 10³/ha) and profitability (2721/ha/day) were recorded in N₂₀+ Rhizobium and PSB. Hence, application of 20 kg N/ha with Rhizobium and PSB proved beneficial for enhancing productivity and profitability of frenchbean in cold desert region of North-western Himalaya.