Effect of inorganic fertilizer and biochar on soil qualities and yield of baby corn (Zea mays L.) var. hybrid F1

Abstract

The research work was conducted at the ‘Central Research Farm, Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Department, SHUATS, Prayagraj”, an experiment titled “Effect of Inorganic Fertilizer and Biochar on Soil Qualities and Yield of Baby corn (Zea mays L.) var. Hybrid F1”, was carried out during kharif season 2024-2025 using randomized block design consisting of three variables and three levels of NPK (at 0, 50 and 100% ha -1) and biochar (at 0, 50 and 100% ha-1). Based on mean performance in the T9 @ 100% RDF + @ 100% Biochar was found effective to enhance soil properties, plant growth and cob yield. It showed that combination of RDF and Biochar were resulted in slight decrease in the Bulk Density, pH and in post-harvest soil analysis observations to (100% RDF + 100% Biochar)) was resulted in significant increase in the Particle Density, Water holding capacity, Pore space, E.C, Organic Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium of Soil. The combination effect of both inorganic fertilizer and biochar was shown highest results in plant height, number of leaves, cob length and weight of cob at 60 DAS. Hence it can be concluded that the combination of 100% RDF and 100% Biochar can be recommended. It shows effective response to soil parameters and yield of baby corn.