Effect of organic and inorganic sources of nitrogen on productivity, quality and economics of FCV tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) Krishna S. Kasturi1, Reddy S.V. Krishna, Singh K. Deo, Kumar P. Harishu, Chandrasekhararao C., Krishnamurthy V. Central Tobacco Research Institute, Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh, 533 105. 1 Corresponding author: (E mail: krishnakasturi@rediffmail.com)
Abstract A field experiment was conducted during 2001–02 and 2002–03 at Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh to evaluate the response of FCV tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) to doses of N fertilizer (20, 40 and 60 kg/ha) and its integration with organic N i.e. farmyard manure (FYM), groundnut [Arachis hypogaea (L.)] cake (GNC) and green leaf manuring (GLM) with Pillipesara [Vigna trilobata (L.) Verdc.]} in organic: fertilizer N of 0: 100, 25: 75 and 50: 50. Results showed that the net returns were higher by Rs 2,330 and Rs 850/ha with GLM when compared with GNC and FYM, respectively. Application of organic: inorganic N in 25: 75 ratio increased mean yields of cured leaf by 0.14 t/ha, and net returns by Rs 3,000/ha over fertilizer N alone. However, 50% each of organic: inorganic N registered higher soil fertility status (OC%, available N,P and K) after crop harvest. The highest mean leaf yields, leaf production efficiency and net returns (Rs 24,450) were recorded with 60 kg N/ha. Leaf lamina concentrations of N and nicotine increased while sugars, and sugars: nicotine ratio decreased with increase in the level of N from 20 to 60 kg/ha. Application of 60 kg N/ha, 25% through FYM or GLM and 75% through fertilizers improved the productivity, quality, economic returns of tobacco and soil fertility status. GLM with Pillipesara is a suitable alternative to FYM whenever its supply is limited in vertisols of Andhra Pradesh. Top Key words Economics, Leaf quality, Nitrogen, Productivity, Soil fertility, Tobacco. Top |