Enhancing crop productivity through integrated nutrient management in coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and its carryover effect on sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

A field experiment was carried out at Junagadh Agricultural University to assess the impact of integrated nutrient management (INM) on coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) and its residual effect on the subsequent summer sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). Conducted over two cropping seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23), the study evaluated nine INM treatments for coriander during the rabi season, followed by three fertility levels for sesame in the summer, resulting in 27 treatment combinations in a split-plot design. The findings revealed that applying 2 t/ha of vermicompost along with 100% recommended nitrogen dose (RDN) through inorganic fertilizers significantly enhanced coriander growth, yield characteristics, seed yield, and quality traits like linalool content. This treatment also led to higher nutrient uptake and improvements in soil fertility compared to other INM treatments. The residual effect of 2 t/ha vermicompost + 100% RDN on the following sesame crop notably boosted plant growth, yield, oil yield, and nutrient uptake. Using 100% recommended fertilizer dose (RDF) in sesame resulted in the highest growth, yield, and nutrient content. The highest net returns (₹104769/ha) with a B:C ratio of 4.37 were achieved with the residual effect of 2 t/ha vermicompost + 100% RDN. The coriander-sesame cropping sequence proved to be highly advantageous, improving soil fertility. Based on two years of data, the application of 2 t/ha vermicompost + 100% RDN to coriander and 100% RDF to sesame provided the best economic returns and improved soil health.