Effect of crop-residue incorporation and nitrogen on succeeding wheat (Triticum aestivum)

A field experiment was conducted during 1997-98 to 1999-2000 to work out the effect of residue incorporation of rice (Oryza sativa L.), soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) and nitrogen requirement of succeeding wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) crop. An increasing trend was recorded in wheat yield and organic carbon content in soil with the incorporation of crop residue. Incorporation of groundnut residue showed higher rate of increase in grain yield of wheat than soybean and rice. Improvement in grain yield of wheat was observed with application of higher dose (150 kg/ha) of nitrogen. In general, positive improvement in soil-fertility status was recorded with residue incorporation. The crop sequence of wheat followed by rice produced highest net return and benefit : cost ratio. Similar trend was also noticed with removal of residue and application of higher dose of nitrogen.