Effect of zinc and FYM on productivity and nutrient availability in maize (Zea mays)–linseed (Linum usitatissimum) cropping sequence

A field experiment consisting of eight treatments was conducted for 3 consecutive years from 2003–04 to 2005–06 in randomized block design with three replications at Palampur to study the effect of zinc with and without farmyard manure (FYM) on production, economics and nutrient status of soil in maize (Zea mays L.) - linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) crop sequence. The soil of the experimental field was medium in zinc content. The results revealed that application of Zn through ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize recorded significantly higher growth parameters and yield attributes of linseed crop, resulting in significantly more linseed and linseed equivalent yield (61.3 and 52.9%, respectively). Application of ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha + FYM 5 t/ha to maize crop was also proved to be equally effective on maize and recording significantly higher tillers/plant, branches/plant and capsules/plant of linseed crop. On system basis, significantly higher net returns obtained with the application of ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize. Application of ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha to both the crops + FYM 5 t/ha to maize and application of ZnSO4 @ 25 kg/ha + FYM 5 t/ha to maize behaved statistically alike in improving the overall fertility status of the soil with respect to N,P,K,S and DTPA extractable-Zn content over rest of treatments.