Integrated nutrient management in intercropping system of Cenchrus and cowpea under semi-arid condition of Rajasthan

An investigation was carried out during Kharif seasons 2012-13 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on intercropping systems of Cenchrus and cowpea under semi-arid condition of Rajasthan. The results revealed that alternate intercropping row ratios (1:1, 2:1 and 1:2) had brought significant effect on green fodder, dry matter, Protein content and economic return during both the years. However, aforesaid indices were the highest with Cenchrus and cowpea planted in 1:2 row ratio followed by 1:1 and 2:1 row ratio, respectively. Among the integrated nutrient management application of 40 kg N + 60 kg P2O5 + bacterial inoculation resulted in significant increase in the green fodder, dry matter, protein and economic return as compared to other treatments (control, bacterial inoculation, 40 kg N/ha, 60 kg P2O5 and 40 kg N + 60 kg P2O5). The data on soil fertility status after post-harvest showed that physical and chemical properties of the soil had improved remarkably with 1:2 row ratio between Cenchrus and cowpea along with application of 40 kg N + 60 kg P2O5 + bacterial inoculation as it is compared with other treatments combinations. Maximum economic return was obtained with the treatment of 40 kg N + 60 kg P2O5 + bacterial inoculation treatment (Rs99695/ha) and benfit:cost ratio(1.91).