Journal of the Indian Society of Soil Science

In a field experiment at the Regional Research Station, Bijapur (Karnataka) over a period of four years (1987–90) on soil properties as well as un the yield of crop, the water infiltration rate and water retention characteristics of a Vertisol were increased and bulk density was reduced significantly with sorghum stubbles alone or in combination with subabul loppings (Leucaena leucocephala) over that with fertilizer application. Subabul loppings alone or in combination with sorghum stubbles increased the water stable aggregates significantly. Incorporation of subabul loppings every year recorded increased organic carban, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content of the soil over fertilizer application. Sorghuin stubble alone or in combination with subabul increased the available potassium content of soil. Incorporation of subabul alone @ 5 t ha⁻¹ every year recorded sorghum production on par with recommended dose of fertilizer. Sorghum stuhble with subabul loppings either every year or alternate year gave significantly higher grain yield than control and stubble alone.