Influence of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under sub-tropical conditions of Uttar Pradesh

The field study was carried out during Rabi season of 2021-22 to evaluate the influence of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under sub-tropical conditions of Uttar Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) involving seven different nutrient management practices i,e. Control, 100% RDF (120:60:80 kg ha-1), 100% RDF + FYM @ 5 t, 100% RDF + FYM @ 5 t+ Azotobacter, 100% RDF + FYM @ 5 t + Azotobacter + PSB, 75% RDF + FYM @ 5t + Azotobacter + PSB and 50% RDF + FYM @ 5t + Azotobacter + PSB which was replicated thrice. The potato variety “Kufri Bahar” was sown on furrows at a row-to-row spacing of 45 cm and plant-to-plant spacing of 30 cm. The crop was fertilized with the recommended dose of N: P2O5: K2O through urea, diammonium phosphate and muriate of potash as nutrient sources through which full dose of P and K and ½ dose of N was applied before planting. The remaining ½ dose of N was applied 30 days after planting. However, the application of Bio-fertilizers were made as per the requirement of the treatment and application of biofertilizers i.e. Rhizobium and Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB), were applied through seed treatment method just before sowing as per the treatment. Further, the crop was managed as per recommended package and practices of the crop The experimental results revealed that among the growth parameters, maximum plant height, number of leaves, leaf area index was recorded through the application of 100 per cent RDF + FYM @ 5 t + PSB. While among the yield parameters, highest total number of tuber per plant, weight of tuber as well as tuber yield of potato was recorded through the application of 100 per cent RDF + FYM @ 5 t + PSB which was found to be statistically at par with the application of 100 per cent RDF + FYM @ 5 t + Azotobacter Thus, Overall performance of integrated nutrient management suggested that application of 100 per cent RDF + FYM @ 5 t + PSB was found to be most effective in enhancing growth and yield of potato.