Effect of different nitrification inhibitors doses and varying nitrogen levels on productivity and economics of hybrid maize (Zea mays)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy season of 2013 at New Delhi, to study the yield and eco- nomics of PMH 3 maize hybrid (Zea mays L.) under different doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 14 combinations of 3 nitrification inhibi- tors (dicyandiamide, neem oil and meliacin) each with 2 different concentrations and 2 levels of nitrogen (135 and 180 kg/ha). Highest number of cobs/plant, grain rows/cob and grains/row were recorded with the application of MCU @N The grain yield, stover yield and harvest index of maize as influenced by different doses of nitrifica- 350 180. tion-inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen were found significant and the highest grain and stover yield (7.25 and 7.93 t/ha) were recorded with the application of MCU @N . DCD @ N recorded the highest cost of cul- 350 180 10% 180 tivation ( 38,813/ha), whereas highest net returns ( 68,482/ha) and net returns/rupee invested (1.99) were re- corded under MCU @N followed by MCU @N ( 66,832/ha, 1.93), while the minimum ( 23,633/ha, 0.74) 350 180 700 180 in the control.