Economics of Sulphur and zinc fertilization for improving productivity and quality of mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted at Agronomy Research Field, Oriental University, Indore (M.P.) during Rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The soil of the experimental field was sandy clay loam in texture. Twenty four treatment combinations administered in mustard consisted of 4 sulphur levels (0, 20, 40 & 60 kg ha-1), three Zn levels (0, 2.5 & 5 kg ha-1) and two zinc solubilizing bacteria levels (without zinc solubilizer & with zinc solubilizer) were replicated three times in randomized block design (factorial). Higher value of growth parameters (like; plant height (cm), number of branches plant-1, and dry matter accumulation plant-1), yield attributes (viz.; number of silliquae plant-1, and 1000 seeds weight), qualitative parameters (viz oil content and nutrient viz.; N, P, K, S & Zn content in seed) as well as computed parameters (viz.; seed yield, biological yield and HI) and gross return were recorded significantly under 60 kg ha-1 S level, which was statistically at par with 40 kg ha-1 S level; while lower value was noted under 0 kg ha-1 S level. Maximum value of various parameters were recorded under 5 kg ha-1 Zn level, which was statistically at par with 2.5 kg ha-1 Zn level; while significantly minimum value was noted under 0 kg ha-1 Zn level. Significantly superior value of different attributes was noted with zinc solubilizer; while minimum value was recorded without zinc solubilizer. In case of B:C ratio; higher B:C ratio was recorded significantly under 20 kg ha-1 S level + 5 kg ha-1 Zn level. which was statistically at par with 40 kg ha-1 S level + 5 kg ha-1 Zn level; while lower value was noted under 60 kg ha-1 S level + 0 kg ha-1 Zn level.