Influence of pruning level and nutrient sources on yield and economics of rice under agri silviculture system

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2023-2024 at JNKVV, Jabalpur to assess the impact of Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. pruning intensities and nutrient sources on rice (Oryza sativa L.) yield and economics. Results showed significant effects of pruning × sources of nutrient. The lowest yield (22.80 and 39.70 q ha-1) occurred under no pruning with 100% RDF, while the maximum (48.92 and 66.50 qha-¹) was obtained under open conditions with 75% RDF + VAM + foliar fulvic acid. Yields consistently improved from P? to P?, with integrated nutrients (T?) performing best. Economic evaluation revealed the highest gross (?172501 ha-1) and net returns (?119753 ha-1) along with maximum B:C ratio (3.27) under P?xT?, indicating the profitability of moderate pruning with integrated nutrient management. Thus, canopy reduction of D. sissoo combined with balanced nutrients enhances rice productivity and economic sustainability in agroforestry-based Agri silviculture systems.