Effect of fertility levels and varieties on growth and forage yield of cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus L.)

Abstract

Improper nutrient management under limited moisture condition is considered as major limiting factor for achieving higher productivity of fodder crops. Use of improved varieties in addition to adequate nutrient management has been reported effective in improving the productivity of cluster bean hence an experiment on cluster bean was carried out at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, R.V.S.K.V.V., Gwalior (M.P.). The experiment was laid out in R.B.D. with 6 fertility levels and two varieties BG-1 and BG-2. Green fodder yield and total green fodder yield were maximum in Variety BG-2 Similarly BG-2 showed higher plant N, P, K and moisture content in green fodder and available N, P, and K in soil over BG-1. 100 % N: 125 % P: 100% K recorded significantly higher plant height, produced higher number of branches, significantly maximum green fodder yield and organic carbon (gm/kg) than rest of other fertility levels. Higher value of available N and P(Kg/ha) in surface soil were noted in 100 % N: 125 % P: 100% K level in surface soil and in fodder. The level125 % N: 125 % P: 100% K recorded maximum N, P and moisture content in green fodder in both cuttings. Maximum potassium content (%) was recorded in 100 % N: 125 % P: 125% K, which is statistically significant over other levels.