Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield, quality and soil fertility of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

A field investigation was carried out during Rabi seasons 2023–24 and 2024–25 at Mansarovar Global University, Sehore (M.P.) to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) involving inorganic fertilizers and vermicompost on the yield, quality, and soil fertility of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment consisted of five nutrient treatments: 100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through inorganic fertilizers and their combinations with vermicompost. Results revealed that integrated use of 50% RDN through inorganic fertilizer and 50% RDN through vermicompost significantly enhanced grain yield, protein content, and available NPK in soil compared to sole inorganic or organic application. The maximum grain yield (5412 kg ha⁻¹), protein content (12.86%), and available nitrogen (205.3 kg ha⁻¹) were recorded with 50% inorganic + 50% vermicompost treatment. Economic analysis also indicated the highest net return (₹84,350 ha⁻¹) and B:C ratio (1.94) in this treatment, proving the superiority of integrated nutrient management over conventional practices.