Effect of different fertility levels and plant spacing on growth and yield of Sarpgandha (Rauvolfia serpentina (L) Benth Ex Kurz under poplar-based agroforestry system

Non-timber forest products (NTFPs) species-based agroforestry system is one of the most promising land management systems helping the most expeditious enhancement product per unit area on sustainable basis. The NTFPs support the rural economy and have been used to improve rural livelihood security. Rauvolfia serpentine is an indigenous medicinal herb of Indian continent having multiple influences on environment, biodiversity, rural economy, health and culture. Apart from traditional use in healthcare and culture it has been increasingly used in pharmaceutical industries in the country as well as abroad. During recent years farmers of eastern and western Uttar Pradesh have started the cultivation of Sarpgandha under agroforestry system using suitable management practices. A study was conducted in the research plot of School of Forestry and Environment, SHIATS, Allahabad, UP under the project ‘Standardization of techniques for cultivation of Sarpgandha under poplar-based agroforestry system’ sponsored by CST, Lucknow, UP during 2009–11. Three spacing S₁(45 x 30 cm), S₂(45 x 45 cm) and S₃(45 x 60 cm) and four levels of inorganic fertilizers F₁ (N₁₅P₂₀K₁₅),F₂(N₃₀P₄₀K₃₀),F₃(N₄₅P₆₀K₄₅) and F₄(N₀P₀K₀kg/ha) were used in the experiment. Perusal of data showed that treatment spacing S₂ (45 x 45 cm) with inorganic fertilizer F₃ (N₄₅P₆₀K₄₅) was found to be superior over other treatments.