Effect of sulphur and zinc on dry biomass accumulation and quality parameters of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24 at Jabalpur to evaluate the effect of sulphur and zinc levels on the growth, yield, and quality of mustard (Brassica juncea L.). The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications, comprising three sulphur levels (0, 20 and 40 kg ha-1) in the main plot and five zinc levels (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10.0 kg ha-1) in the subplot. Results indicated that sulphur and zinc significantly influenced the growth parameters and quality traits of mustard, although their interaction effects were generally non-significant. Dry biomass accumulation was significantly influenced by sulphur and zinc levels, with maximum values recorded under 40 kg S ha-1 and 10 kg Zn ha-1 followed by 20 kg S ha-1 and 7.5 kg Zn ha-1. Quality parameters such as oil and protein content and their respective yields were significantly enhanced by increasing sulphur and zinc levels, with maximum values recorded at 40 kg S ha-1 and 10 kg Zn ha-1 with comparable results observed at 20 kg S ha⁻¹ and 7.5 and 5.0 kg Zn ha⁻¹. Based on recorded findings, it could be inferred that application of 40 kg S ha-1 and 10.0 kg Zn ha-1 with recommended dose of fertilizers hold to increase dry biomass accumulation and quality of Indian mustard.