Productivity and profitability of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) as influenced by integrated nutrient management

Abstract

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a perennial herb native to Southeast Asia, known for its rhizomatous growth. The combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizer known as Integrated Nutrient Management can improve soil fertility, increase crop yield and reduce the negative impact of chemical fertilizers on environment. Vermicompost is rich in beneficial microorganisms and nutrients, making it an excellent organic fertilizer for cultivating turmeric. This study was carried out at research farm of the department of vegetable science, regional research station, Karnal during summer season of 2022-23 in Randomized-block Design. The results showed that no of primary and secondary rhizomes per plant (4.10 and 8.43), weight of mother, primary and secondary rhizomes (70.12, 108.68 and 64.18 g) and yield (182.80 q/ha) were recorded highest with application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + vermicompost @ 5 t/ha, whereas, available potassium (186.81 kg/ha) was recorded highest with application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + FYM @ 25 t/ha. Highest gross returns (Rs 3,65,600) were observed with application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + vermicompost @ 5 t/ha. The highest gross return (Rs. 3,65,600) was also recorded with 75% Recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + vermicompost @ 5 t/ha., whereas highest net income (Rs 2,30,449) with B:C ratio (1.90) was observed in Recommended dose of fertilizer (N:P:K-100:50:50).