Vol. 12 No. 1
Effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity and profitability of pointed gourd (Trichosanthes dioica Roxb.)
Author(s): D. A. NAYAK, M. PRADHAN, S. MOHANTY, A. K. PARIDA AND P. MAHAPATRA
Abstract:
A field experiment was undertaken in the experimental plots of Network Project on Biofertilizer, OUAT, Bhubaneswar during 2012-13 and 2013-14 to evaluate the combined effect of iofertilizers, inorganic fertilizer levels, soil amendment and organic manure on yield and quality improvement in pointed gourd cv. Swarna Alaukik. The experiment was conducted in acidic (pH- 4.62 - 4.73), sandy loam soil imposed with twelve treatment combinations comprising different levels of inorganic fertilizers (Urea, DAP and MOP), organic manure (vermicompost) and 
bio fertilizers (Azotobacter sp., Azospirillum sp. and Phosphate Solubilising Bacteria [PSB] – Bacillus sp.) and lime (Paper mill sludge). Application of 100 per cent recommended dose (RDF) of NPK in combination with biofertilizer, lime and organic manure to pointed gourd increased the vegetative growth characters (Pooled data) viz; length of vine (234.27 cm), vine girth (3.72 cm) and no. of branches per plant (12.45) as well as yield attributes such as length of fruit (12.50 cm), girth of fruit (8.13 cm) and single fruit weight (24.81 g) over 2012-13 and 2013-14. Integrated application of inorganics with soil amelioration and organic addition enhanced the fruit yield (29.78 t ha-1) and quality attributes (moisture content of fruit, total soluble solid, ascorbic acid, total sugar) of pointed gourd. A net profit of 241349 per hectare from the crop over an investment of 85961 with a benefitcost ratio of 2.80: 1 was obtained with combined application of lime, 100 per cent RDF along with biofertilizers and vermicompost. Thus, it can be incurred from the experiment that recommended dose of chemical fertilizer which was applied to pointed gourd in conjunction with biofertilizer and vermicompost in presence of lime, improved the quality of the produce (fruits) without hampering the yield potential of the crop.
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