Nutrient balance in Indian mustard under varying levels of nitrogen and sulphur fertilization

Indian soils are becoming deficient in nitrogen and sulphur due to the intensive cultivation and use of high analysis fertilizers. Indian mustard requires relatively higher amount of these nutrients for achieving higher yield levels. The present experimental trial was conducted to find out the response of Indian mustard to higher levels of N and S fertilization in terms of nutrient uptake, available status and net balance in soil. Uptake of N and S by Indian mustard showed a positive response with increasing the levels of N and S application and maximum uptake was recorded with N160 S60 kg ha⁻¹ followed by N120 S40 kg ha⁻¹. Also the successive increase in the rates of N from 80–160 kg ha⁻¹ and S from 0–60 kg ha⁻¹ increased the available status and net balance of these nutrients in the soil. Thus, the uptake, available nutrient status and net balance of N and S in the soil increased due to the increasing levels of N and S and assured the availability of these nutrients to the crop in appropriate quantity which also remained in the soil in substantial amount that ultimately improved the soil fertility and enhance the soil nutrient pool.