Productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and maize (Zea mays) as influenced by nutrient management practices in winter maize based cropping system

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 200910 and 201011 to find out the effect of various nutrient management practices on productivity and economics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) and maize (Zea mays L.) grown as a sole crop and as an intercrop in winter maize based intercropping system. The highest biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek were recorded with the com- bined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources, followed by recommended dose of nutrients (RDF) through organic sources and recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources. Application of Azotobacter + Azospirillum + PSB for maize and Rhizobium + PSB for fenugreek too re- corded higher values of biological yield, grain yield, haulm yield and harvest index of fenugreek as compared to control. The gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio were significantly higher with maize + fenugreek sown in 1:1 ratio among the cropping systems, followed by the sole maize. Among the nutrient management practices, the highest gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio were observed with the combined application of nutrients through organic (50%) and inorganic (50%) sources.