Comparing the effect of organic manure, biofertilizer and synthetic fertilizer on production and productivity of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) crop

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2023-24 at the Research Farm of Abhilashi University, Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, to comparing the effect of organic manure, biofertilizer and synthetic fertilizer on production and productivity of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) crop. The study included eight treatments comprising different combinations of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), vermicompost and Azotobacter, arranged in a randomized block design with three replications. Among the treatments, T₄ (100% RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t ha⁻¹ + Azotobacter) recorded the highest plant height, spike length, grain yield (45.75 q ha⁻¹), straw yield (67.29 q ha⁻¹) and biological yield (113.04 q ha⁻¹) while the control (T₁) recorded the lowest values. Although the highest harvest index was observed in T₁ (42.71%), integrated nutrient treatments showed significantly improved productivity due to enhanced nutrient uptake, better microbial activity and improved soil health. The study makes clear that INM enhances barley yield potential and fosters sustainable practices in temperate hilly agricultural systems.