Vol. 7, Special Issue 6 (2019)
Effect of plant population and varied nitrogen levels on quality and economics of fodder maize (Zea mays L.)
Author(s): Rama Bharti, SK Gupta, MK Singh, Suborna Roy Choudhury and Anshuman Kohli
Abstract: The present investigation entitled “Effect of plant population and nitrogen levels on fodder maize (Zea mays L.)†was conducted during the kharif season of 2018 at the Research Farm, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bhagalpur to find out the effect of plant population and nitrogen levels on the growth parameters, yield attributes, yield, quality parameter and economics of fodder maize. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three plant spacing viz. 30cm x 20cm, 40cm x 20cm and 50cm x 15cm in main plots and three nitrogen levels @ 90, 120 and 150 kg ha-1, in sub plots replicated thrice. The experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, slightly alkaline in pH, low in available nitrogen (203.27 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphate and medium in available potash. Quality parameters of fodder maize were highly influenced by adopting different plant population and varied nitrogen levels. Crude protein and ash content were both found significantly higher with 30cm x 20cm plant spacing, whereas, crude fiber content was highest with spacing of 45cm x 20 cm which was at par with S3 (50cm X 15cm). As higher green fodder yield was obtained with spacing 30cm x 20 cm produced higher gross, net returns and B.C ratio. Highest green and dry fodder yield (504.5 q ha-1 and 126.1 q ha-1 respectively) was obtained N application @ 150 kg ha-1. Quality parameters were also significantly influenced by different fertilizer N application levels. Crude protein content was highest (8.3%) with 150 kg N ha-1 where as crude fiber was found highest with 90 kg N ha-1. Ash content increased significantly as the nitrogen levels increased from 90 to 150 kg ha-1. Highest gross return, net return and B.C ratio was obtained under 150 kg N ha-1 and plant spacing of 30cm x 20cm having higher plant population (1,66,666 plants ha-1). The plant spacing of 30cm x 20cm and nitrogen application @ 150 kg ha-1 were found superior over other treatment.
Pages: 325-328 | 470 Views 73 Downloads
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How to cite this article:
Rama Bharti, SK Gupta, MK Singh, Suborna Roy Choudhury and Anshuman Kohli. Effect of plant population and varied nitrogen levels on quality and economics of fodder maize (Zea mays L.). International Journal of Chemical Studies. 2019; 7(6): 325-328.
