Productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and maize (Zea mays) as influenced by nutrient management practices in winter maize-based cropping system

A field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2009–10 and 2010–11 to find out the effect of various nutrient management practices on productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) grown as a sole crop and as an intercrop in winter maize based intercropping system. The highest biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek were recorded with the combined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources, followed by recommended dose of nutrients (RDF) through organic sources and recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources. Application of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + PSB for maize and Rhizobium + PSB for fenugreek too recorded higher values of biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek as compared to control. The gross returns, net returns and B: C ratio were significantly higher with maize + fenugreek sown in 1: 1 ratio among the cropping systems, followed by the sole maize. Among the nutrient management practices, the highest gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio were observed with the combined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources.