Influence of indigenous inputs on the properties of old alluvial soil in a mustard cropping system

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted at the Crop Research and Seed Multiplication Farm of Burdwan University, Burdwan, West Bengal, India, to evaluate the influence of integrated nutrient management on soil physicochemical properties in a mustard (Brassica campestris cv. ‘B9’) cropping system. The experiment was conducted during the winter seasons of 2011–2012 and 2012–2013 in old alluvial soil (pH 6–7). Seven different doses of biofertilizers (Azotobacter and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB)), vermicomposts, organic (cow dung), and chemical fertilizers were applied on mustard in both the experimental seasons. The results indicated an improvement in soil quality by increasing soil porosity and water holding capacity significantly, as well as gradual build-up of the soil micronutrient status after harvesting of the crop. Dual applications of biofertilizers and vermicomposts have contributed significantly to higher soil organic matter, available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) contents as well as micronutrient availability of iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) and subsequently increased the soil health.

Keywords:

• vermicompost
• biofertilizer
• mustard
• soil quality
• micronutrient

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge the help we received from the staff members of Rural Technology Center, The University of Burdwan, West Bengal, India.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by University Grants Commission (UGC) under the UGC major research project having basic research grant from the Government of India [Ref. No. R.T.I/1249/55, dated 1 July 2011] to Prof. J.K. Datta, the Principal Investigator of this project.