Effect of integrated nutrient management on nutrient uptake and yield of component crops in rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping systems

A field experiment was conducted during 1999-2001 at Kalyani, West Bengal, to assess the effect of integrated nutrient management on nutrient uptake and yield of component crops in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)-sesame (Sesamum, indicum L.)-rice (Oryza sativa L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.)sesame-rice and Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson]-sesame-rice cropping systems. Yield of sesame and rice in potato-sesame-rice was higher than in wheat-sesame-rice and Indian mustard-sesame-rice cropping system. Residual effect of FYM applied to the winter (rabi) crops persisted even up to the third crop in the sequence, whereas due to composite inoculum of biofertilizer it was almost negligible. Phased application of 50% P to all the crops in the sequence reduced the yield of only sesame and wheat crop compared with 100% recommended dose of P applied to only rabi crop. Uptake of N (257 kg/ha) and K (335 kg/ha) was the highest in potato-sesame-rice and that of P (48.3 kg/ha), in wheat-sesame-rice cropping system. Application of 10 tonnes FYM/ha to rabi crops could supplement 25% NPK requirement of all component crops and increased the uptake of N, P and K by the crops. Uptake of N, P and K was improved by composite inoculum of biofertilizers, but was not affected by phased application of P.