Application of phosphorus and zinc improved the nutrient dynamics, productivity, and profitability of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) cropping system

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Durgapura, Jaipur, (SKNAU, Jobner), Rajasthan during winter and rainy seasons of 201516 and 201617 to evaluate the effect of phosphorus (P) and zinc (Zn) application on yield, eco- nomics and energetics and nutrient dynamics in fenugreekpearl millet cropping system. The experiment was con- sists of four levels of P as main-plot and six levels of Zn as sub-plot conducted in split plot design (SPD) replicated thrice. Results revealed that application of 60 kg P O /ha to fenugreek resulted in 42% higher pearl millet equiva- 2 5 lent grain yield (PMEGY) along with the highest net returns and B: C ratio as compared to rest of the treatments. Similarly, among the different Zn treatments, 33% higher PMEGY and the highest net returns were obtained with the application of 5 kg Zn/ha + zinc solubilizer to fenugreek. Combined application of 60 kg P O /ha + 5 kg Zn/ha + 2 5 zinc solubilizer, consumed the highest amount of energy but also gave the highest energy output. Overall, com- bined application of 60 kg P O /ha + 5 kg Zn/ha + zinc solubilizer improved the system productivity, profitability, en- 2 5 ergetics and nutrient (N, P, K and Zn) dynamics of fenugreekpearl millet cropping system.