Influence of land configuration and nutrient management on yield, quality and economics of soybean (Glycine max)-sweet corn (Zea mays) cropping sequence

A field experiment was carried out during 2011–12 and 2012–13 at integrated farming system research project farm, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, to study the effect of land configuration and levels of potassium on soybean [Glycine max (L) Merrill] and there residual effect with nutrient management on sweet corn (Zea mays Saccharata sturt.). The ridge and furrow planting method with potassium @ 37.5 kg/ha to rainy season crop soybean significantly increased yield attributes, yield and net monetary returns over flat bed planting method. The use of potassium @ 37.5 kg/ha to soybean and their residual effect on sweet corn resulted in significantly increased higher yield and yield attributes. While the yield and yield attributes, net monetary returns with increased system yield (12.66%) were significantly higher with the application of 125% recommended dose of fertilizer (150 N: 75 P₂O₅: 50 K₂O kg/ha) to sweet corn during winter season. The total cropping system yield 13.53 t/ha, net returns ( 262.6 × 10³/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (4.0) were obtained by the application of 125% recommended dose of fertilizer (150 N: 75 P₂O: 50 K₂O kg/ha) to sweet corn.