Effect of N fertigation and planting methods on potato growth and yield in Shimla hills

Field experiments were conducted to study the effect of N fertigation and planting methods on the growth and yield of potato during 2001–2002 on acidic sandy loam soil of Shimla hills. Raised bed double row system utilizing single drip line did not show any variation in plant growth behavior and potato tuber yield in comparison to single row system, thus economizing on the cost of laterals and emitters to the tune of 50%. Application of 75 kg N/ha through fertigation was found optimum and on an average it increased potato yield by 28.3 and 50.0% in comparison to supplemental irrigation and rainfed condition, respectively. Use of N through fertigation increased water expense and N use efficiency as it increased potato tuber yield.