Effect of sulphur and zinc management on yield, nutrient uptake, changes in soil fertility and economics in rice (Oryza sativa)-lentil (Lens culinaris) cropping system

Four levels of sulphur and zinc (total 16 treatment combinations) were evaluated for three years (2008-09 to 2010-11) under randomized block design replicated thrice. Both the nutrients were applied to rice (Oryza sativa L.) and their direct and residual response was ascertained to rice and lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) in sequence. Pooled results indicate that maximum rice yield (7.72 tonnes/ha) was recorded with combined application of 30 kg sulphur and 6 kg zinc, whereas corresponding minimum rice yield (7.09 tonnes/ha) was recorded with control where no application of zinc and sulphur was done. Similarly maximum lentil seed yield (1 243 kg/ha) was recorded with combined application of 30 kg sulphur and 6 kg zinc whereas corresponding minimum lentil seed yield of 960 kg/ha was recorded with control. Highest N uptake (281.2 kg/ha) was recorded with 6 kg zinc application, whereas P and K uptake was highest with 40 kg sulphur application. Highest extra net return ((sic) 6 611/ha) was recorded in the plots which received combined application of 30 kg sulphur and 6 kg Zn. Maximum B: C ratio was noticed in with 20 kg sulphur application.