Comparative response of sulphur and phosphorus fertilizer on productivity and profitability of mustard in limited irrigation condition of bihar eastern plain zone

On-farm trials were conducted during the winter (Rabi) season of 2013—14 and 2014—15 on a sulphur (S) and phosphorus (P) deficient soil in limited irrigation under late sown condition at farmer's field of adopted villages of KVK Bhagalpur to validate, refine and popularize the technology developed at Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur (Bihar) for enhancing the productivity and profitability of mustard (Brassica Juncea L.). Results revealed that the application of recommended dose of fertilizer (80:40:40 kg/ha N, P₂O₅ and K₂O), and phosphorus supply through di-ammonium phosphate along with 20 kg/ha elemental sulphur (T₃) and recommended dose of fertilizer (80:40:40 kg/ha N, P₂O₅ and K₂O), and phosphorus supply through single super phosphate (T₄) significantly increased the plant height, dry matter/plant, branches/plant (primary and secondary), siliquae/plant, length of siliqua, number of seeds/siliqua, 1,000-grain weight, seed yield, stover yield, oil content and NPS uptake over farmer's practice and recommended dose of fertilizer (phosphorus supply through di-ammonium phosphate). Application of recommended dose of fertilizer (80:40:40 kg/ha N, P₂O₅ and K₂O) phosphorus through single super phosphate produced 30.7 and 18.6% higher seed yield as compared to farmer's practice and recommended dose of fertilizer phosphorus through di-ammonium phosphate, respectively. Application of recommended dose of fertilizer (phosphorus supply through single super phosphate) was most economical. These SSP applications on mustard crop recorded Rs. 18,599/ha net returns along with 0.85% benefit: cost ratio.