Influence of spacing and nutrient levels on yield, physiological parameters and nutrient uptake in short duration varieties of red gram [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]

Abstract

The field experiment to assess the influence of spacing and nutrient levels on physiological parameters, yield and nutrient uptake in short duration red gram varieties was conducted in factorial RBD with three replications at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala during November 2018 – March 2019. The treatment combinations included two short duration varieties of red gram, [v1: APK 1 and v2: Vamban (Rg) 3], two spacings [s1: 40 cm x 20 cm and s2: 60 cm x 30 cm] and three nutrient levels [n1: 40:80:40, n2: 30:60:30 and n3: 20:40:20 kg NPK ha-1]. The results revealed that the variety APK 1 recorded the highest seed and haulm yield (0.99 and 3.57 t ha-1 respectively), and total uptake of P (11.67 kg ha-1). Among the individual effects of spacing and nutrient levels, 40 cm x 20 cm and NPK @ 40:80:40 kg ha-1 were superior. In V x S x N interaction, the combination of APK 1, 40 cm x 20 cm and 40:80:40 kg NPK ha-1 recorded the highest total dry matter production, CGR, seed yield and P uptake. Based on the results, the short duration variety APK 1 at 40 cm x 20 cm at nutrient dose of 40:80:40 kg NPK ha-1 can be recommended for higher yield and nutrient uptake in red gram.