Response of urdbean (Vigna mungo L.) to seed rate and nutrient management in Tarai region of Uttarakhand

Abstract

Urdbean, known for its role in nitrogen fixation, has the potential to enhance soil fertility naturally; however, optimizing seed rates and integrating organic amendments are crucial to maximizing both yield and soil health benefits. This study explores the impact of different seed rates and nutrient management practices, including organic fertilizers and biofertilizers, on the growth and productivity of urdbean. A field study was conducted to assess the impact of seed rates and nutrient management practices on urdbean growth parameters, including plant height, plant spread, number of branches, and trifoliate leaves per plant. Two seed rates—normal (16 kg/ha) and 125% normal (20 kg/ha)—were combined with nutrient treatments: Recommended dose of fertilizer (N:P:K @ 18:21:20 kg/ha), humic acid (10 kg/ha), and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (20 g/kg seed), applied individually and in combinations. There was no significant difference between the seed rates for growth and yield, however, normal seed rate resulted in comparatively higher number of branches (5.1) and trifoliate leaves (8.1), while the 125% seed rate slightly increased plant height (44.1 cm). Nutrient management significantly influenced growth, with RDF + humic acid + PGPR showing maximum plant height (48.3 cm), branches (6.1), and trifoliate leaves (9.2). Grain yield was also significantly higher under the combined application of the different nutrient sources in both years. The findings emphasize that adopting holistic nutrient management practices not only improves soil health but also enhances growth and productivity of urdbean.