Response of multi-cut fodder pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) genotypes to varied nitrogen levels in southern dry zone of Karnataka

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at zonal agricultural research station, V. C farm, mandya during summer 2019 to study the response of multi-cut pearl millet genotypes to varied levels of nitrogen and to identify the optimum and economical level for higher green forage yield and quality. The study revealed that, the variety Giant bajra national check recorded significantly higher green forage and dry matter yield (608.0 and 114.9 q ha-1 respectively), net monetary returns (Rs.56,346 ha-1) and agronomic efficiency of nitrogen (632.0 Kg green fodder yield per Kg of N). However the variety HTBH-4902 recorded significantly higher crude protein yield (9.13 q ha-1) and it was on par with variety Giant bajra (8.72 q ha-1). Application of 120 kg N ha-1 significantly recorded higher green forage, dry matter and crude protein yield (741.1 q, 143.4 q and 12.57 q ha-1 respectively) and net monetary returns (Rs.72,234 ha-1). The application of nitrogen at 40 Kg per hectare recorded higher agronomic efficiency of nitrogen (542.0 Kg green fodder yield per Kg of N).