A study on impact of customized fertilizer on growth and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in Madhya Pradesh soil

Abstract

The experiment was conducted at the MGU Bilkisganj Research Farm, Sehore, during the Rabi seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24 to evaluate the effect of customized fertilizers on chickpea (Cicer arietinum) on growth and productivity. The study was conducted under uniform topography and normal fertility conditions, with six treatments: varying doses of NPK and customized fertilizers with micronutrients, including sulfur (S), zinc (Zn), and molybdenum (Mo). The results demonstrated that higher doses of customized fertilizers, particularly T5 (125 kg ha⁻¹), significantly improved plant height, root nodulation, pod development, and grain yield compared to the control. Treatment T5 showed the tallest plants (49.25 cm), the highest nodule weight (762.44 mg), and the best grain yield (1526.96 kg ha⁻¹). Treatment T4 (100 kg ha⁻¹) also resulted in improved growth and yield parameters. The inclusion of micronutrients (Zn and Mo) further enhanced plant performance. These findings emphasize the importance of tailored nutrient management, especially with customized fertilizers, for improving chickpea productivity and ensuring sustainable crop growth.