Abstract: This study examines the effect of various treatment combining Farm Yard Manure (FYM) with different NPK level fertilization on yield, growth and soil properties of cowpea plants. Our objective was to identify the treatment that optimizes physical plant growth and offers the best economic returns. We performed a controlled trial with nine treatments (T1 to T9) that varied in the percentage of prescribed NPK levels and the application of FYM. The experiment assessed several growth factors such as plant height, pod length, number of pods, and seed weight at 40 and 60 days after sowing (DAS). Samples of soil were examined before planting and after harvesting for evaluation changes in physical and chemical characteristics including bulk density, particle density, pore space, water holding capacity, soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and available potassium. T9, which included 100% required NPK levels and FYM, showed superior performance compared to other treatments in plant height, pod length, number of pods, seed weight, and total seed production. This treatment yielded superior physical development metrics and generated the greatest gross return, net profit, and a cost-benefit ratio of 1:2.81. Post-harvest soil research revealed that T9 improved soil health by increasing water retention, nutrient availability, and structural qualities. This research highlights the efficacy of combining full recommended dosages of NPK with FYM to provide improved agronomic performance and economic advantages in cowpea production. The results support using this treatment plan to enhance efficiency and financial gain in sustainable farming methods.
Keywords: Treatment, Application, Evaluation, FYM, Retention
Author: Neha Kumari, Narendra Swaroop, Tarence Thomas, Satya Ranjan Mohanta and Ashima Thomas
doi: https://doie.org/10.0526/AE.2024508386
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