Characterization of Organic Manures and Incineration Ash for Physical and Chemical Properties to Evaluate their Efficacy on Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.)

摘要

A field experiment was conducted at Maddur taluk, Mandya to study the influence of different organic manures along with incineration ash as a source of potassium on growth and yield of maize. The characterization of manures indicated that the major, secondary and micronutrients were higher in the pressmud compost (PMC) compared to FYM. The incinerated ash (IA) was used as an alternative source of potassium fertilizer as it is having higher total K (12.34 %) content. The results revealed that application of PMC irrespective of the level of K applied through IA recorded greater influence on increasing the growth and yield of maize compared to FYM. Application of PMC + 100 per cent NP + 125 per cent K through IA recorded higher plant height (33.54,205.1 and 222.7 cm) at 30, 60 days after sowing (DAS) and at harvest, respectively and higher number of leaves at 90 DAS in maize. However, at 90 DAS, higher plant height and higher number of leaves plant~(-1) (8.433, 15.10 and 14.49 at 30 DAS, 90 DAS and atharvest, respectively) was recorded with FYM + 100 per cent NPK (150:75:40). Significantly higher test weight (31.88 g) was recorded with the application of PMC + 100 per cent NP + 125 per cent K through IA. Similarly, significantly higher maize grain (8473, 8956 and 8715 kg ha~(-1) during 2019-20, 2020-21 and pooled mean, respectively) and stover yield (12125, 11974and 12050 kg ha~(-1) during 2019-20, 2020-21 and pooled mean, respectively) were recorded in the treatment supplied with PMC + 100 per cent NP + 125 per cent K through IA Therefore, application of 100 per cent NP and PMC along with 125 per cent K through IA could be a viable option in increasing maize yield in and around the areas of sugar industry.