Effect of fertility levels on yield, protein content and economics of pearl millet (Pennisetum gluucum) + castor (Riciraus communis) or cowpea (VZgna unguiculuta) intercropping under rainfed condition

Abstract

A field experiment was carried out during the rainy (khan8 1989 and 1990 to study the seasons of effects of 2 cultivars of pearl millet [Penniseefum glaucum 6.) R. Br. emend. Stuntz] and 2 intercrops, viz. castor (Ricinus communb L.) and cowpea [ V i g ~unguiculata 6.) at various fertility Walp.], \ levels under 2 planting systems in terms of yield, protein content and economics. Among the main effects, hybrid MBH 151 of pearl millet, castor as intercrop, paired-row planting system and fertility levels of 25 kg N + 12.5 kg P,O,/ha + Azospirillum were found superior in term of grain yield of pearl millet to other main effects. Increasing fertility levels significantly improved the protein content and protein yield over the control. Data on economics of various fertility levels revealed that maximum net returns could be achieved by inoculating Azospirillum in addition to fertilizers at 25 kg N + 12.5 kg P,O,ha in pearl millet + castor intercropping under rainfed condition.