Influence of integrated nutrient management practices on growth and yield of holy basil (Ocimum sanctum L.) intercropped with coconut.

摘要

An experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Research Station, Arasikere, Hassan district, Karnataka, during 2007-08 to study the influence of integrated nutrient management practices on growth and yield of holy basil intercropped in coconut garden. The experiment consisting of eight treatments was laid out in RCBD with three replications. Farm yard manure (FYM), vermicompost (VC) and composted coir pith (CCP) were used as organic sources of nutrients. The plant height, number of branches and number of leaves in holy basil were significantly higher in the recommended practice (10 t FYM ha-1+recommended NPK through fertilizers) compared to application of 100 per cent N through FYM or VC or CCP. The green and dry herb yield and also the essential oil yield of holy basil were significantly higher with the recommended practice compared to application of 100 per cent N through FYM or VC or CCP and was on par with 50 per cent N through FYM or VC or CCP+50 per cent NPK through fertilizers. However, the essential oil content in the dry herb of holy basil was not significantly influenced by nutrient management practices. The net income and B:C ratio were maximum with the recommended practice followed by application of 50 per cent N through FYM or VC or CCP+50 per cent NPK through fertilizers. Hence, integrated use of 50 per cent N through FYM or VC or CCP+50 per cent NPK through fertilizers can be recommended to holy basil intercropped in coconut garden in addition to the recommended practice of application of 10 t FYM ha-1+recommended NPK through fertilizers.