Yield maximization through improved nutrient management practices in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill.]

Abstract

Background: Soybean is one of the world’s leading pulse crops and serves as a primary source of protein and edible oil. However, its optimal production is restricted by various biotic and abiotic stresses, along with challenges related to crop management practices. Hence the present investigation is conducted to fulfill the requirements of nutrients for soybean for sustainable production and to find out the effects of micro-nutrients and microbial consortia on yield of soybean. Method: The field experiment was conducted in field at Regional Research Centre, Amravati. The experiment was conducted in completely randomized block design with three replications and nine treatments. The influence of fertilizer and bio-formulations on growth, yield parameters, yield, economics and nutrient status of soybean (PDKV Amba) was carried out during kharif 2024-25. Result: Significantly highest number of pods per plant, seed and straw yield kg/ha and biological yield were recorded in 100% RDF + Mo seed treatment + Zn & Fe foliar application at 45 DAS i.e. 47.53, 2370 kg/ha, 2867 kg/ha and 5237 kg/ha respectively. In respect of Economics of different treatments, lowest cost of cultivation was noticed in treatment of 100% + 25% split N application at 45 DAS (Rs. 43965/ha) while highest GMR and NMR was observed in treatment 100% RDF + Mo seed treatment + Zn & Fe foliar application at 45 DAS i.e. Rs. 120253 and Rs. 68388 per ha respectively. While highest B:C ratio was noticed in 100% RDF + Boron as foliar spray at flowering (2.51).