Microclimatic modulation through conservation and conventional tillage under seaweed extract and nanourea in brown sarson: Maize cropping system

Abstract

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of conservation and conventional tillage practices in combination with seaweed extract and nano-urea on microclimatic parameters and yields of Brown sarson-maize cropping system under temperate conditions of Kashmir valley. A two-year field experiment (2022-23 and 2023-24) using a split-plot design was carried out using tillage practices (conventional and conservation) as main plot treatments and six nutrient management treatments viz; integrated applications of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), seaweed extract, nano-urea and control. Results revealed that conventional tillage consistently maintained higher canopy temperatures and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) interception compared to conservation tillage. Fertilizer management treatments involving RDF with seed and foliar application of seaweed extract (S3) significantly improved PAR interception and moderated canopy temperatures, creating a favorable microclimate. Yield attributes viz; grain yield, stover yield, biological yield, and harvest index were also significantly influenced by treatment combinations. Conventional tillage and the integrated nutrient management treatment (RDF + seaweed extract) produced the highest yields across both crops and seasons. These findings highlight the potential of combining appropriate tillage systems with bio-based and seaweed extract inputs to enhance microclimatic conditions and improve system productivity in sustainable cropping systems.