Yield, nutrient concentration, uptake and quality of mustard (Brassica juncea) and lentil (Lens esculenta) intercropping system influenced by different levels of fertility

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted in Split Plot Design with five intercropping systems [sole mustard, sole lentil, mustard + lentil (1:3), mustard + lentil (2:2) and mustard + lentil (2:3)] and four fertility levels (0, 75, 100 and 125% RDF) and replicated thrice during rabi season, 2017-18 at Agronomy farm, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner. The results revealed that planting of mustard in 2:2 row ratio, being at par to sole mustard, gave significantly higher seed yield (2234 kg/ha) as compared to 1:3 and 2:3 row ratios. The 1:3 row ratio, remaining at par to sole lentil, recorded significantly higher seed yield of lentil as compared to 2:2 and 2:3 row ratio. The 1:3 row ratio, recorded significantly higher nitrogen concentration in seed of mustard. Planting of mustard in 2:2 and planting of lentil in 1:3 row ratio, recorded significantly highest total uptake of nitrogen and phosphorus. Application of fertility levels up to 125% RDF significantly increased the seed yield of mustard and lentil and nitrogen concentration in seed of mustard and straw of lentil, total nitrogen and phosphorus uptake of mustard and lentil. Whereas, RDF up to 100% significantly increased nitrogen concentration in stover and seed of lentil, phosphorus concentration in seed and stover/straw of mustard and lentil, oil content in seed of mustard and protein content in seed of lentil.