Influence of phosphorus levels, biofertilizers, and FYM on growth and yield performance of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Abstract

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important pulse crop that plays a vital role in human nutrition and soil fertility improvement through biological nitrogen fixation. However, its productivity is often limited by phosphorus deficiency, low organic matter, and inadequate microbial activity in soils. The present study was conducted to evaluate the influence of varying phosphorus levels, biofertilizers, and farmyard manure (FYM) on growth and yield performance of chickpea under field conditions. The experimental treatments consisted of different phosphorus levels combined with inoculation of *Rhizobium* and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) along with or without FYM application. Observations were recorded on growth parameters, yield attributes, seed yield, and nutrient uptake. Results revealed that the combined application of phosphorus at optimum levels (e.g., 60 kg P₂O₅ ha-1) with Rhizobium + PSB inoculation and FYM significantly improved plant height, number of branches, nodulation, and dry matter accumulation compared to control and individual treatments. The integrated use of phosphorus, biofertilizers, and FYM enhanced pod formation, seed yield, and harvest index by improving nutrient availability and utilization efficiency. The synergistic effect of organic and inorganic sources not only increased productivity but also improved soil health parameters such as available nitrogen and phosphorus. It may be concluded that the integrated nutrient management approach involving phosphorus, biofertilizers, and FYM offers a sustainable strategy to enhance growth, yield, and soil fertility in chickpea cultivation.