Effect of humic acid and vermicompost levels on agronomic performance and soil nutrient dynamics in Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.)

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2024 at Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, to evaluate the effects of humic acid (HA) and vermicompost (VC) on the growth, yield and soil nutrient status of Bajra (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.). The trial followed a randomized block design (RBD) with nine treatments and three replications, including combinations of HA (5 and 10 L ha-1) and VC (2 and 4 t ha-1), along with a control. The treatment combining HA at 10 L ha-1 and VC at 4 t ha-1 showed a significantly improvement in plant height (198.4 cm), tiller number (3.2 per plant) and yield-related traits. It produced the highest grain yield (2065.8 kg ha-1) and stover yield (2706.2 kg ha-1). Nutrient uptake was also maximized under this treatment, with nitrogen (67.8 kg ha-1), phosphorus (14.2 kg ha-1) and potassium (66.4 kg ha-1) uptake being highest. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed improved fertility, with increased available N, P, K and organic carbon. These findings suggest that the combined application of HA and VC substantially enhances crop performance and soil health, offering a sustainable approach for Bajra cultivation in Typic Haplustept soils.