Influence of biofertilizers and nutrient levels on growth and productivity of hybrid indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

This field experiment investigated the effects of nutrient levels, hybrid varieties, and biofertilizers on Indian mustard over two winter seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23) at the Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University. The study employed a split-plot design with three replications, testing three fertility levels (75%, 100%, and 125% of recommended dose of fertilizer of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur) on two Indian mustard hybrids ('Pro Agro Hybrid Mustard-5222' and 'Pioneer Hybrid Mustard-45S46') with three biofertilizer seed treatments (Control, PSB+SDB, and NPK consortia). Results revealed that the highest fertility level (125% RDF NPKS), combined with 'Pioneer Hybrid Mustard-45S46' and NPK consortia biofertilizer treatment, yielded higher plant height (cm), number of primary and secondary branches plant-1, seed yield (kg ha-1), CGR (g m-2 land area day-1) and RGR (g g-1 day-1). This research contributes valuable insights into the synergistic effects of fertility levels, hybrid varieties, and biofertilizers on Indian hybrid mustard productivity, quality, and profitability.