Content uploaded by Manoj Kumar
Author content
All content in this area was uploaded by Manoj Kumar on Jan 09, 2018
Content may be subject to copyright.
This article was downloaded by: [Manoj KUmar]
On: 20 April 2013, At: 00:12
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Informa Ltd Registered in England and Wales Registered Number: 1072954 Registered
office: Mortimer House, 37-41 Mortimer Street, London W1T 3JH, UK
Journal of Plant Nutrition
Publication details, including instructions for authors and
subscription information:
http://www.tandfonline.com/loi/lpla20
EFFECTS OF ORGANIC MANURES,
CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS AND
BIOFERTILIZERS ON GROWTH AND
PRODUCTIVITY OF RAINFED POTATO IN
THE EASTERN HIMALAYAS
Manoj Kumar a , L. K. Baishya a , D. C. Ghosh b , M. Ghosh b , V. K.
Gupta a & Med Ram Verma c
a Central Potato Research Station (Indian Council of Agricultural
Research), Shillong, India
b Department of Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture. Engineering,
Plant Physiology and Animal Science, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute
of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, India
c Division of Livestock Economics, Statistics & Information
Technology, IVRI, Izatnagar, India
Accepted author version posted online: 13 Feb 2013.
To cite this article: Manoj Kumar , L. K. Baishya , D. C. Ghosh , M. Ghosh , V. K. Gupta & Med Ram
Verma (2013): EFFECTS OF ORGANIC MANURES, CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS AND BIOFERTILIZERS ON
GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF RAINFED POTATO IN THE EASTERN HIMALAYAS, Journal of Plant
Nutrition, 36:7, 1065-1082
To link to this article: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01904167.2013.770021
PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR ARTICLE
Full terms and conditions of use: http://www.tandfonline.com/page/terms-and-conditions
This article may be used for research, teaching, and private study purposes. Any
substantial or systematic reproduction, redistribution, reselling, loan, sub-licensing,
systematic supply, or distribution in any form to anyone is expressly forbidden.
The publisher does not give any warranty express or implied or make any representation
that the contents will be complete or accurate or up to date. The accuracy of any
instructions, formulae, and drug doses should be independently verified with primary
sources. The publisher shall not be liable for any loss, actions, claims, proceedings,
demand, or costs or damages whatsoever or howsoever caused arising directly or
indirectly in connection with or arising out of the use of this material.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Journal of Plant Nutrition, 36:1065–1082, 2013
Copyright C
Taylor & Francis Group, LLC
ISSN: 0190-4167 print / 1532-4087 online
DOI: 10.1080/01904167.2013.770021
EFFECTS OF ORGANIC MANURES, CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS
AND BIOFERTILIZERS ON GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY
OF RAINFED POTATO IN THE EASTERN HIMALAYAS
Manoj Kumar,1L. K. Baishya,1D. C. Ghosh,2M. Ghosh,2V. K. Gupta,1
and Med Ram Verma3
1Central Potato Research Station (Indian Council of Agricultural Research), Shillong, India
2Department of Agronomy, Soil Science, Agriculture. Engineering, Plant Physiology and
Animal Science, Palli Siksha Bhavana (Institute of Agriculture), Visva-Bharati, India
3Division of Livestock Economics, Statistics & Information Technology, IVRI, Izatnagar,
India
2The experiment was conducted to study the influence of application of different proportions of
farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM) and vermicompost (VC) in combination with inor-
ganic fertilizers along with seed treatment with biofertilizers on growth and productivity of rainfed
potato. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design with eight nutrient management treat-
ments in main plots and three biofertilizers (Azotobactor, PSB and Azotobactor +PSB) treatments
in subplots. Shoot number, plant height, leaf area index (LAI), dry mater accumulation, dry mater
partitioning, tuber yield The results showed that fertility treatments increased tuber yield by 32–90%
in 2005, 29–79% in 2006 and 32–80% in 2007 over control plots. The best treatment combina-
tion was with application of 50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and 50% RDN through
PM along with combination of Azotobactor +PSB. The best treatment tuber yield were recorded
229.19, 238.12 and 240.07 q ha−1in the year 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.
Keywords: organic fertilizers, manures, potato
INTRODUCTION
Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is one of the major world food crops. The
contribution of potato in world food basket is only after rice, wheat and
maize. Potato gives an exceptionally high yield and also produces more edi-
ble energy and protein per unit area and time than many other crops. Potato
is an economical food and it provides a source of low cost energy to the hu-
man diet. It is the rich source of starch, vitamin C and B and minerals. It
Received 13 December 2010; accepted 2 August 2012.
Address correspondence to Manoj Kumar, Division of Agronomy; ICAR Research Complex for NEH
Region, Umiam-793103, Meghalaya, India. E-mail: mkumar cprs@yahoo.co.in
1065
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1066 M. Kumar et al.
contains 20.6% carbohydrates, 2.1% protein, 0.3% fat, 1.1% crude fiber and
0.9% ash. It also contains good amounts of essential amino acids like leucine,
tryptophane and isolucine (Paul Khurana and Naik, 2003). The impor-
tant potato growing countries are Russian Federation, Poland, USA, China,
India, Germany and Spain. In India, potato is cultivated in about 1.34 million
hectares with a total production of about 24.7 million tonnes (Mondal and
Sarkar, 2005). It is cultivated on a large scale in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal,
Bihar and Punjab. The North Eastern hill region of India covers 9% area of
the country with 4% of its population. In this region potato productivity is
very low (8.64 t ha−1) except Tripura (17.3 t ha−1) due to use of unscientific
production technology (Burman et al., 2007). Organic manures particularly
farm yard manure (FYM) and poultry manures (PM) have traditionally been
used by potato farmers of this region. Higher food production needs higher
amount of plant nutrients. Use of inorganic fertilizers has increased consid-
erably to meet the higher nutrient requirements of the present day improved
varieties. This creates imbalance in nutrient supply leading to decline in soil
fertility, crop productivity and sustainability. Use of organic matter to meet
the nutrient requirement of crops would be an inevitable practice in years to
come, particularly for resource poor farmers. Furthermore, ecological and
environment concerns over the increased and indiscriminate use of inor-
ganic fertilizers have made research on use of organic materials as a source
of nutrients very necessary (Upadhyaya et al., 2003). A number of diverse
organic sources are available for use in agriculture. Organic manures like
FYM, PM and vermicompost (VC) can play important role in potato pro-
ductivity. These sources can reduce the mining of soil nutrient and improve
soil organic matter, humus and overall soil productivity (Jenssen, 1993). Soil
organic matter acts as “cement” for water holding clay and soil particles
together, this contributing to the crumb structure of the soil providing resis-
tant against soil erosion, binds micronutrient metal ions in the soil to check
leaching out of surface soils. Organic constituents in the humic substances
also act as plant growth stimulants (Jenssen, 1993; Palm et al., 1993). The
soil in NE region in acidic in nature and low in available nitrogen (N), low
to very low in phosphorus (P) and medium in potassium (K). Most of P gets
fixed as Fe or Al phosphate in the soil. Application of P-solublizing bacteria
would help in increasing the efficiency of available P in the soil by converting
unavailable P into available form. Similarly, N fixing biofertilizers like Azo-
tobactor take the potential to meet a successful availability of N requirement
of potato (Giller and Cadisch, 1995). Biofertilizers are easy to apply, low-cost
in nature and eco-friendly. A judicious combination of organic manures,
inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers might be helpful in obtaining high
potato productivity and good soil health for sustainability. Therefore, an in-
tegrated nutrient management (INM) in which organic manures, inorganic
fertilizers and biofertilizers are used simultaneously has been suggested as
the most effective method to maintain a healthy and sustainable soil system
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1067
while increasing crop productivity (Giller and Cadisch, 1995; Mondal and
Chettri, 1998). There is evidence from field research that high and sustain-
able yields are possible with integrated use of manures, inorganic fertilizers
and biofertilizers (Giller and Cadisch, 1995; Singh et al., 1999). Thus, there
is a lot of potential for use of organic manures and biofertilizers in the fertil-
izer schedule of potato to reduce total dependence on chemical fertilizers.
However, no such study was made in the Eastern Himalayas. Keeping the
idea in view and realizing the importance of the problem the present study
was undertaken to investigate the effect of integrated use of organic ma-
nures, inorganic fertilizers and biofertilizers on growth and productivity of
rainfed potato in Eastern Himalayas.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A field experiment was conducted during the summer season (March to
July) of 2005 to 2007 at Central Potato Research Station (ICAR), Shillong,
Meghalaya, India (2602N latitude, and 8904E longitude and 900 m above
mean sea level). The soil at the experimental site was sandy loam with pH 5.3,
1.23% organic carbon, 178.5 kg available N ha−1, 13.35 kg available P ha−1,
and 195.1 kg available K ha−1. The experiment was laid out in split-plot de-
sign with three replicates and conducted under rainfed condition. The main
plots (6.0 m wide and 11.0 m long) were treated with eight nutrient manage-
ment treatments [F1 =Control, F2 =100% recommended dose of Nitrogen
(RDN) through farm yard manure (FYM), F3 =100% RDN through poultry
manure (PM), F4 =100% RDN through vermicompost (VC), F5 =50%
RDF (RDN PK) through FYM +50% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)
through chemical (inorganic) fertilizers, F6 =50% RDN through PM +
50% RDF through chemical fertilizers, F7 =50% RDN through VC +50%
RDF through chemical fertilizers and F8 =100% RDF (120 kg N, 120 kg
P2O5 and 60 kg K2O/ha) through chemical fertilizers]. Three biofertilizer
treatments [Azotobactor, phosphate-solublizing bacteria (PSB), and Azoto-
bactor +PSB] were assigned to the subplots (3.0 m wide and 6.0 m long).
Well-decomposed farm yard manure (0.53% N, 0.29% P and 0.61% K) at 23
tha
−1, poultry manure (1.52% N, 0.82% P and 0.87% K) at 8.0 t ha−1and
vermicompost (1.20% N, 0.65% P and 0.80% K) at 10.0 t ha−1collected from
a nearby farm was applied into the plots as per treatments and incorporated
by plowing ten days before final land preparation. FYM 23.0 t/ha, PM 8.0 t
ha−1andVC10.0tha
−1were used to supply 100% RDN (120 kg N ha−1)
and FYM 11.5 t ha−1,PM4.0tha
−1and VC 5.0 t ha−1were used for sup-
plying 50% RDN through organic manures. Half dose of nitrogen and full
dose of phosphorous and potassium were applied as per treatment as basal
dose before planting. The remaining half dose of nitrogen was applied at
earthing up.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1068 M. Kumar et al.
Three solutions of biofertilizers (only Azotobactor,only PSB and com-
bination of Azotobactor +PSB) were prepared by dissolving half a kg each
of Azotobactor and PSB biofertilizers and combination of 250 g of each
biofertilizer in 40 liters of water separately. Jaggery slurry was prepared by
boiling 2 kg jaggery per liter of water. After cooling, one liter of jaggery
slurry was added to each solution of biofertilizer. Then potato seed tubers
were dipped in the biofertilizer solution for 30 minutes as per treatment
and dried in shade. The treated tubers were planted at 20 cm apart in
the furrows of 60 cm distance and covered immediately after planting. The
earthing up was done at 35 days after planting to provide loose soils around
the plants for better development of tubers at the stolon tips. Weeding was
also done during earthing up with the help of a small spade. Other than
late blight there were no major incidences of insect pests. Two sprayings
of dithane M-45 and one spraying of redomile were sprayed for control-
ling of late blight of potato. All the plants from net plot area (7.2 m−2)
were harvested manually at maturity in bright sunny day. All the tubers were
dried and graded in shade and their weight and number were recorded as
grades A (50 g and above), B (30–50 g) and C (less than 30 g). The tu-
ber yield of different plots were estimated and converted into tonnes per
hectare. Plants samples were selected randomly to determine height of the
plants at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 DAP, number of branches per plant at 45
DAP and yield components at maturity. Three plants were harvested from
the earmarked area outside the net plot at 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 DAP and
brought to the laboratory. The plants were separated into tubers, green
leaves and haulm and their dry weights were recorded after drying in a hot
airovenat75
◦C till constant weights were obtained to estimate leaf area
index, dry matter accumulation, dry matter partitioning, haulm growth rate
and tuber growth rate. All the data were statistically analyzed by standard
analysis of variance technique for a split plot design as suggested by Gomez
and Gomez (1984). Wherever treatment differences were found significant
based on results of F-test, critical differences were calculated at 5% level of
probability.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Plant Emergence
The plant emergence showed that emergence of potato plants did not
vary significantly among the different nutrient management practices and
biofertilizers used during all the three years under the study (Table 1). The
results indicated that nutrient management and biofertilizer did not have
much effect on emergence of potato plants. This was mainly due to the
fact that potato tubers had enough food to nourish the young sprouts for
emergence. Further, the effect of applied nutrients would only be estimated
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1069
TABL E 1 Effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers on sprouting of tubers and number
of shoots/plant
Sprouting percentage Number of branches plant−1
Nutrient management 2005 2006 2007 2005 2006 2007
Control (no manures and
fertilizers)
93.391.791.71 3.30 3.01 3.27
100% RDN∗through FYM 93.592.194.52 3.98 3.86 4.14
100% RDN through
poultry manure
95.991.894.40 4.15 4.03 4.30
100% RDN through
vermicompost
95.292.595.50 4.12 3.91 4.22
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
FYM
94.691.794.04 4.20 4.08 4.25
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
poultry manure
94.491.494.65 4.43 4.30 4.50
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
vermicompost
95.792.495.74 4.22 4.10 4.33
100% RD through
fertilizers
94.990.695
.75 4.05 4.00 4.23
SEm.(±)1.22 1.04 1.66 0.18 0.22 0.15
CD (0.05) NS NS NS 0.51 0.61 0.42
Biofertilizers
Azotobactor 94.391.67 94.22 3.94 3.80 4.10
Phosphate-solubilizing
bacteria (PSB)
94.891.67 94.54 4.01 3.84 4.12
Azotobactor +PSB 95.092.28 94.86 4.22 4.08 4.25
SEm.(±)0.45 0.39 0.41 0.12 0.15 0.11
C D (0.05) NS NS NS NS NS NS
CV(%) 5.85.05.312.114.810.9
∗RDN (recommend dose of N) =120 kg N ha−1; RD (recommend dose) =120 kg N ha−1, 120 kg
P2O5ha−1and60kgK
2Oha
−1, respectively; fertilizers =chemical fertilizers.
after their absorption through well established root system that came later
on.
Number of Branches per Plant
Number of branches per plant increased significantly over control due
to the nutrient management practices followed during three years (2005,
2006, and 2007). The highest number of main shoots per plant was found
in the treatments receiving 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers +50%
RDN through poultry manure (PM) but it was at par with all other nutrient
management practices except control during all the three years (Table 1).
The control plots recorded the lowest number of shoots per plant during all
the years. Use of biofertilizers did not exert any effect on shoot production in
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1070 M. Kumar et al.
potato plant. The interaction effect of nutrient management and biofertilizer
also failed to affect the branch per plant.
Plant Height
Application of 100% NPK through inorganic fertilizers recorded the
tallest plants throughout the growth stages (30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 DAP)
in 2005 (Figure 1a) and it was closely followed by the crop receiving 50%
RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% RDN through PM.
Both the treatments recorded significantly greater plant height over all other
nutrient management practices at all the growth stages during this year. But
FIGURE 1 Nutrient management and biofertilizers on plant height (cm) in A) 2005 and B) 2006.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1071
in 2006, the tallest plants were recorded in plots having integrated use of
50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% RDN through
PM and was closely followed by the crop receiving combined use of 50% RDN
through inorganic fertilizers and remaining 50% RDN through FYM or VC;
but was significantly superior to all other nutrient management practices at
all the growth stages during 2006 (Figure 1b). Use of only organic sources
(100% RDN) of nutrients (FYM, VC and PM) recorded much less plant
height than those obtained with integrated use of 50% RDNPK through
inorganic and 50% RDN through organic sources at all the growth stages
during both the years. The crop of the control plots produced the dwarf
most plants which were significantly inferior to other treatments. The results
indicated that potato crop required high amount of nutrients for its proper
growth and 100% replacement of nutrients through organic sources was
unable to supply plant nutrients adequately keeping space with the require-
ment during its growth period. It might be due to slow mineralization rate of
organic matter under low temperature prevailing in Meghalaya hill region
at initial growth stages and high N requirement during the tuber bulking
period. Among the biofertilizers, maximum plant height was observed with
combination of Azotobactor +PSB and it was significantly superior to single
use of Azotobactor, but at par with those obtained with the application of
only phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) at all the growth stages during
both the years. This might be due to fact that combined application of both
biofertilizers enhanced the rate of mineralization of plant nutrients in soil
and thus helped in better nutrition of the crop that reflected in increasing
plant height (Mondal et al., 2005; Sarkar et al. 2007). The interaction effect
of nutrient management and biofertilizers on height of the potato plants
was found not significant at any of the growth stages during both the years
under study.
Leaf Area Index (LAI)
Integrated use of 50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and remain-
ing 50% RDN through PM recorded high values of LAI and was closely
followed by 50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers +50% RDN through
FYM or VC or100% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers at all the growth
stages of both the years (Figure 2). These treatments out-performed all
other fertility treatments in producing LAI of the crop. Use of only organic
manures (100% RDN) produced intermediate values of LAI which were
significantly higher over control (without any nutrient application). The re-
sults indicated that nutrient supply through only organic sources was not
adequate for a quick growing high fertilizer responsive crop like potato. The
high value of LAI throughout the growing period of potato was also noticed
by Nandekar et al. (2006) and Mondal et al. (2007) due to high level of bal-
anced nutrient application through both organic and chemical sources. Use
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1072 M. Kumar et al.
FIGURE 2 Nutrient management and biofertilizers on LAI in A) 2005 and B) 2006.
of biofertilizers also showed significant effect on increasing LAI of potato.
Combined application of Azotobactor +PSB produced maximum values
of LAI at all the growth stages during both the years and was significantly
greater than those of the crop receiving only Azotobactor treatment; but was
comparable to PSB treatment at all the growth stages during both the years
(Figure 2). Similar positive response of combined application of Azotobac-
tor and PSB on LAI was also noticed by Ghosh et al. (2000) and Nandekar
et al. (2006). Interaction effect of nutrient management and biofertilizer
on LAI was found significant at 60 DAP and 75 DAP during both the years.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1073
Combined use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers +50% RDN
through organic sources (FYM, VC or PM) in addition to seed treatment
with both biofertilizers (Azotobactor and PSB) out-performed other treat-
ment combinations in producing LAI at 60 DAP and 75 DAP during both
the years. Among them use of 50% NPK through chemical fertilizers +50%
RDN through poultry manure (PM) and seed treatment with both biofertil-
izers (Azotobactor and PSB) recorded the highest LAI during 60–75 DAP
(3.45–3.88 in 2005 and 3.47–3.91 in 2006) which was significantly superior to
that of others. The results clearly showed that organic manuring was essential
for enhancing the benefit of biofertilizer application.
Total Dry Matter Accumulation
Total dry weight (g plant−1) increased steadily till 90 days after plant-
ing during both the years (Table 2). Application of 50% RDNPK through
inorganic fertilizers and 50% N through PM recorded maximum total dry
matter yield per plant which was significantly superior than other fertility
treatments at all the growth stages during both the years Combined use of
50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers +50% RDN through VC or FYM
also recorded significantly higher dry matter yield over those of the other
fertility treatments most of the growth stages during both the years except
at 45 and 60 DAP during 2005 (Table 2) when it recorded total dry matter
yield comparable to that of the crop having 100% RDNPK through chemical
fertilizers. Integrated use of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers was
found to be essential for increasing dry matter accumulation in potato. Com-
bined application of Azotobactor and PSB recorded the highest dry matter
yield per plant at all the growth stages which was significantly greater than
those of the crop having only Azotobactor or PSB during both the years.
Performance of PSB was relatively better in comparison to Azotobactor in
improving dry matter yield of potato. The results are in conformity with the
findings of Kumar et al. (2001) and Indiresh et al. (2003). Interaction effect
of nutrient management and biofertilizers on total dry matter accumulation
in potato was found not significant during both the years.
Dry Matter Partitioning (%)
Dry matter partitioned into tubers increased steadily till 90 DAP during
2006 and till 75 DAP. The dry matter partitioning tended to decrease due to
use of inorganic fertilizers either at recommended dose or half of the rec-
ommended dose and remaining half dose through VC or PM as compare to
FYM at all the growth stages during both 2005 (Figure 3A) and 2006 (Figure
3B). Supply of 100% plant nutrients through organic sources recorded rel-
atively higher percent of dry matter partitioning into tubers than those with
inorganic fertilizers at most of the growth stages under the study. The crop
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1074 M. Kumar et al.
TABL E 2 Effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers on total dry weight at different stages
Total dry weight (g/plant) at different stages
2005 2006
Nutrient
management 45 DAP 60 DAP 75 DAP 90 DAP 45 DAP 60 DAP 75 DAP 90 DAP
Control (no
manures and
fertilizers)
5.5 8.35 10.27 12.46 5.49 6.85 10.26 11.87
100% RDN∗
through FYM
18.21 22.86 44.22 48.17 14.64 24.37 44.84 47.60
100% RDN through
poultry manure
22.25 29.52 51.94 57.98 18.53 29.98 51.94 56.80
100% RDN through
vermicompost
20.39 26.06 48.71 53.56 17.45 27.25 48.79 51.71
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through
FYM
26.15 30.38 59.11 64.28 26.49 31.47 57.64 59.98
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through
poultry manure
30.58 36.33 64.9 72.05 32.21 39.89 67.20 70.12
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through
vermicompost
28.32 33.45 61.56 67.02 30.28 35.48 62.55 65.45
100% RD through
fertilizers
27.22 32.84 57.62 62.15 27.80 33.84 55.63 60.48
SEm(±) 0.71 0.83 0.94 0.86 0.60 0.65 0.73 0.69
C D (0.05) 2.12 2.45 2.85 2.61 1.81 1.96 2.14 2.62
Biofertilizer
Azotobactor 20.76 25.25 46.74 51.67 19.88 26.31 47.07 50.21
Phosphate-
solubilizing
bacteria (PSB)
22.17 27.42 49.88 54.82 21.27 28.69 49.78 53.02
Azotobactor +PSB 24.14 29.84 52.75 57.64 23.68 30.95 52.69 55.78
SEm(±) 0.42 0.47 0.55 0.48 0.35 0.39 0.44 0.45
C D (0.05) 1.22 1.30 1.61 1.39 1.05 1.17 1.28 1.31
C V (%) 10.4 9.8 6.7 5.1 9.1 7.0 6.1 5.7
∗RDN (recommend dose of N) =120 kg N ha−1; RD (recommend dose) =120 kg N ha−1, 120 kg
P2O5ha−1, and 60 kg K2Oha
−1, respectively; fertilizers =chemical fertilizers.
of the control plots recorded the lowest percent of dry matter partitioning
into tubers at all the growth stages during both the years. This was mainly
due to inadequate nutrition of the crop in control plots that showed very
poor performance. The results indicated the need of organic manuring for
improving dry matter partitioning into the potato tubers. Use of biofertilizer
did not show significant effect on increasing dry matter partitioning into
tubers at any of the growth stages during both the years. Interaction effect
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1075
FIGURE 3 Nutrient management and biofertilizers on dry matter partisioning (%) into tuber in A)
2005 and B) 2006.
of nutrient management and biofertilizers on dry matter partitioning was
also found to be not significant at all the growth stages during both the
years.
Yield Components
Number and Weight of Tubers per Plant
Number and weight of tubers per plant varied significantly among the
different nutrient management practices during all the three years of study.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1076 M. Kumar et al.
Integrated use of 50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and 50% RDN
through organic sources (FYM, VC and PM) recorded significantly higher
number and weight of tubers per plant as compare to those at all other fer-
tility treatments except 100% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers during
all the three years (Table 3). Application of 100% RDN through organic
manures (FYM, PM and VC) came next in influencing the tuber bulking in
potato. Accordingly these treatments recorded significantly higher number
and weight of tubers per plant as compare to that of the control plots which
produced the lowest number and weight of tubers per plant during all the
years. The results emphasized the need of integrated use of 50% RDNPK
through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic sources (FYM,
TABL E 3 Effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers on yield components of potato
Number of
tubers/plant
Weight of tubers/plant
(g)
Avg. tuber weight
(g/tuber)
Nutrient management 2005 2006 2007 2005 2006 2007 2005 2006 2007
Control (No manures
and fertilizers)
7.17.47.3 165.9 157.4 156.71 23.37 21.27 21.47
100% RDN∗through
FYM
7.07.27.4 210.1 221.7 221.10 30.01 30.79 29.88
100% RDN through
poultry manure
7.37.57.6 225.5 233.9 239.77 30.84 31.19 31.05
100% RDN through
vermicompost
7.47.67.7 220.5 228.8 226.97 29.80 30.11 29.98
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through FYM
8.38.28.0 274.2 285.5 288.06 33.04 34.82 36.01
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through
poultry manure
8.88.68.5 289.0 298.7 296.93 32.89 34.73 34.93
50% RD through
fertilizers +50%
RDN through
vermicompost
8.48.58
.1 282.9 290.3 291.40 33.68 34.15 35.98
100% RD through
fertilizers
7.57.67.2 275.2 281.8 285.37 36.69 37.08 39.63
SEm(±)0.26 0.23 0.24 5.14 6.93 7.50 0.69 0.58 0.62
C D (0.05) 0.76 0.68 0.71 15.5 20.9 22.32.04 1.77 1.83
Biofertilizer
Azotobactor 7.67.67.2 175.6 240.5 240.09 23.11 31.64 33.33
Phosphate solubilizing
bacteria (PSB)
7.78.07.5 184.9 249.8 250.80 24.01 31.23 33.42
Azotobactor +PSB 7.87.97.6 189.8 258.9 261.44 24.33 32.77 34.44
SEm(±)0.15 0.18 0.16 3.18 3.10 3.73 0.41 0.35 0.34
C D (0.05) NS NS NS 9.1 9.0 10.41.20 1.02 1.00
CV(%) 6.86.57.06.47.8 8.36.25.15.5
∗RDN (recommend dose of N) =120 kg N ha−1; RD (recommend dose) =120 kg N ha−1, 120 kg
P2O5ha−1, and 60 kg K2Oha
−1, respectively; fertilizers =chemical fertilizers.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1077
PM or VC) for enhancing tuber formation and tuber bulking in potato.
Favorable effect of integrated nutrient management through both chemical
fertilizers and organic manures on increasing tuber production and tuber
weight per plant was also noticed by Sood (2007) and Kumar et al. (2008).
Application of biofertilizer did not exert any effect on tuber formation but
it played an active role on influencing tuber bulking in potato during all the
three years under the study (Table 3). Combined application of Azotobactor
and PSB recorded the higher tuber weight per plant which was significantly
greater than those of the crop receiving only Azotobactor or PSB during
all the years. Seed treatment with PSB also showed superiority in increasing
tuber weight per plant over that of the crop having only Azotobactor treat-
ment. The results corroborate the findings of Singh (2002) and Nandekar
et al. (2006). Interaction effect of nutrient management and biofertilizer
on number and weight of tubers per plant was found not significant during
all the three years. Average tuber weight nutrient management practices
exerted significant effect on average weight per tuber during all the three
years of study. The highest average weight per tuber was obtained from the
crop receiving 100% N through PM and was closely followed by combined
use of 50% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers and 50% RDN through
organic manures (FYM, PM or VC) and 100% RDNPK through inorganic
fertilizers. All these treatments recorded significantly higher average weight
per tuber than those obtained at other fertility treatments during all the
three years (Table 3). Control plots produced the lowest weight of tuber.
Use of biofertilizer exerted significant effect on influencing tuber bulking
in potato during all the three years under the study. Combined application
with Azotobactor +PSB recorded the higher average tuber weight which was
significantly greater than those of the crop having only Azotobactor or PSB
during all the years. Seed treatment with either Azotobactor or PSB did not
exert much beneficial effect on average tuber weight. Interaction effect of
nutrient management and biofertilizer on average weight of tuber was found
not significant during all the three years. The results are in agreement with
the findings Malik and Ghosh (2002) and Chadha et al. (2006).
Crop Productivity
Nutrient management exerted significant effect on grade wise tuber
yield of potato. The crop produced higher quantity of ‘B’ grade tubers than
those of grade ‘A’ and ‘C’ during all the three years of study. Integrated
use of 50% RDNPK (60 kg N, 60 kg P2O5and 30 kg K2Oha
−1) through
chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic sources (FYM, PM, or
VC) or application of 100% RDNPK (120 kg N, 120 kg P2O5and60kgK
2O
ha−1) through chemical fertilizers recorded higher tuber yield of all grades
(grade A, B and C) than those of the crop at other fertility treatments during
all the three years (Table 4). The highest tuber yield of different grades was
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
TABL E 4 Effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers on grade-wise tuber yield (q ha−1)ofpotato
Grade-wise tuber yield (q ha−1)
2005 2006 2007
Nutrient management Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade A Grade B Grade C Grade A Grade B Grade C
Control (no manures and fertilizers) 16.98 54.85 34.16 16.05 49.83 30.55 15.99 49.37 31.01
100% RDN∗through FYM 38.24 84.56 33.68 40.61 90.37 31.52 43.08 92.64 30.97
100% RDN through poultry manure 40.62 88.97 35.04 45.85 94.98 29.64 46.20 95.17 29.46
100% RDN through vermicompost 39.42 87.17 34.34 42.81 92.43 31.19 44.04 93.73 30.99
50% RD through fertilizers +50% RDN through FYM 64.63 107.31 41.75 67.58 116.85 34.07 67.90 117.28 34.00
50% RD through fertilizers +50% RDN through poultry manure 66.27 112.83 42.66 70.75 121.61 36.14 72.40 123.88 35.46
50% RD through fertilizers +50% RDN through vermicompost 65.34 110.65 44.15 68.79 118.63 35.23 68.66 119.13 34.32
100% RD through fertilizers 65.87 108.30 42.24 69.48 120.25 34.08 70.33 121.75 33.70
SEm(±)0.97 1.93 0.82 1.12 2.01 0.78 1.82 2.73 0.85
C D (0.05) 2.94 5.81 2.45 3.36 6.07 2.35 5.09 7.65 2.54
Biofertilizer
Azotobactor 47.49 92.42 36.95 50.48 98.08 30.75 51.31 99.20 30.42
Phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB) 48.68 93.30 38.47 52.05 99.20 31.69 53.16 101.03 32.40
Azotobactor +PSB 52.84 97.27 41.10 55.75 104.45 35.96 56.26 104.63 34.63
SEm(±)0.71 0.85 0.69 0.65 1.05 0.62 1.01 1.18 0.74
C D (0.05) 2.15 2.53 2.06 1.94 3.12 1.79 3.01 3.52 2.08
CV(%) 6.55.97.07.76.38.510.47.59.3
∗RDN (recommend dose of N) =120 kg N ha−1; RD (recommend dose) =120 kg N ha−1, 120 kg P2O5ha−1, and 60 kg K2Oha
−1, respectively; fertilizers =
chemical fertilizers.
1078
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1079
obtained with the application of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers
and 50% N through PM, but it was at par with those of the crop having
50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through FYM, VC
or 100% RDNPK through only chemical fertilizers. Combined use of 50%
RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic sources
(FYM, PM, or VC) or 100% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers increased
tuber yield by 90.4, 43.5 and 16.8% of ‘A’ ‘B’ and ‘C’ grades respectively
over other treatments. Application of 100% RDN (120 kg N ha−1) through
organic manures also enhanced the tuber yield of grade ‘A’ and ‘B’ over
that of the control plots during the years under study. But these treatments
produced ‘C’ grade tubers comparable to that of the control plots. The
results emphasized the need of integrated use of 50% RDNPK through
chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic sources (FYM, PM or
VC) for producing high yield of different grades tubers under Meghalaya hill
region. It further showed that supply of 100% nutrients through only organic
manures failed to produce high tuber yield under this situation. This might
be due to slow mineralization of plant nutrients under low temperature
condition prevailing in this region (Singh et al., 2007).Use of biofertilizer
showed significant effect on influencing yield of different grades tubers.
Seed treatment with both biofertilizers (Azotobactor and PSB) recorded
the highest tuber yield of different grades which was significantly greater
than those of the crop having either only Azotobactor or PSB treatment
during all the years under the study (Table 4). Seed treatment with PSB
tended to show some superiority over Azotobactor treatment in increasing
different grades tuber production during all the three years. Interaction
effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers was found not significant
in increasing different grades tuber production during all the three years.
Total tuber yield followed a trend similar to that of grade wise tuber
yield. Combined application of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers
and 50% N through organic sources (FYM, PM or VC) or 100% RDNPK
through chemical fertilizers recorded higher tuber yield which was signifi-
cantly greater than those of the crop at all other fertility treatments during
all the three years (Table 5). The highest tuber yield was obtained with the
use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through PM,
but it was statistically on par with those obtained from the crop having 50%
NPK through inorganic fertilizers and 50% RDN through FYM or VC or
100% RDNPK through inorganic fertilizers during all the three years. Use
of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic
sources or 100% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers increased tuber yield
by 48.3, 50.0 and 49.1% in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively over those of
the other treatments. Application of 100% RDN (120 kg N ha−1) through
organic manures also enhanced the tuber yield over that of the control
plots. Higher LAI functioning over the tuber bulking period of the crop at
combined application of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50%
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1080 M. Kumar et al.
TABL E 5 Effect of nutrient management and biofertilizers on total tuber yield
Total tuber yield (q ha−1)
Nutrient management 2005 2006 2007 Pooled
Control (no manures and
fertilizers)
105.99 96.43 96.37 99.60
100% RDN∗through FYM 156.48 162.50 166.69 161.89
100% RDN through
poultry manure
164.63 170.47 170.83 168.64
100% RDN through
vermicompost
160.93 166.43 168.76 165.37
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
FYM
213.69 218.50 219.18 217.12
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
poultry manure
221.76 228.50 231.74 227.33
50% RD through fertilizers
+50% RDN through
vermicompost
220.14 222.65 222.11 221.63
100% RD through
fertilizers
216.41 223.81 225.78 222.00
SEm(±)5.34 5.38 5.23 4.22
C D (0.05) 16.05 16.15 15.63 12.65
Biofertilizer
Azotobactor 176.86 179.31 180.93 179.03
Phosphate-solubilizing
bacteria (PSB)
180.45 182.94 186.59 183.33
Azotobactor +PSB 191.21 196.16 195.52 194.30
SEm(±)2.68 2.92 2.96 1.98
C D (0.05) 8.03 8.76 8.85 5.92
CV(%) 7.78.18.3
∗RDN (recommend dose of N) =120 kg N ha−1; RD (recommend dose) =120 kg N ha−1, 120 kg
P2O5ha−1and60kgK
2Oha
−1, respectively; fertilizers =chemical fertilizers.
RDN through organic sources (FYM, PM or VC) or 100% RDNPK through
chemical fertilizers resulted in increased tuber dry matter production due to
higher tuber growth rate which ultimately increased tuber yield over those
of the other treatments during all the years. It emphasizes the need of inte-
grated use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% N through
organic sources (FYM, PM or VC) for producing high tuber yield. It further
shows that supply of 100% RDN through only organic manures was not much
helpful in producing high tuber yield under this situation. Slow mineraliza-
tion of plant nutrients from organic matter under low temperature condition
prevailing in the north eastern hill region might be responsible for its inabil-
ity to produce high tuber yields due to inadequate crop nutrition. Biofer-
tilizer also exerted significant effect on increasing tuber yield of potato.
Seed treatment with both biofertilizers (Azotobactor and PSB) recorded
significantly higher tuber yield than those of the crop treated with only
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
Effect of Fertilizers on Rainfed Potato 1081
Azotobactor or PSB during all the years. Seed treatment with PSB showed
some superiority over Azotobactor treatment in increasing tuber yield of
potato.
Interaction effect of fertility management and biofertilizer on tuber yield
of potato was found significant during all the years. The crop receiving 50%
NPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through organic manures
(PM, FYM or VC) along with both biofertilizers (Azotobactor and PSB)
treatment recorded significantly higher tuber yield than all other treatment
combinations except 100% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers along with
both biofertilizers treatment during the all of the three years. Among the
above treatment combinations use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertil-
izers and 50% RDN through poultry manure (PM) along with both biofer-
tilizers (Azotobactor and PSB) treatment recorded the highest tuber yield
which was significantly superior to all other treatment combinations during
all the three years. It recorded 12.2, 10.3 and 9.6% higher tuber yield in
2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively than what obtained with single biofertilizer
treatment along with integrated use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fer-
tilizers and 50% RDN through poultry manure. The greater effect of use of
both biofertilizers treatment (Azotobactor and PSB) along with integrated
use of 50% RDNPK through chemical fertilizers and 50% RDN through
poultry manure might be due to higher N fixation through Azotobactor in
addition to enhanced rate of P mineralization from organic matter by PSB
resulting in higher growth of the crop as reflected by increased LAI and
dry matter accumulation through haulm and tubers throughout the growth
period that ultimately led to higher tuber productivity (Nandekar et al.,
2006; Kumar et al., 2001). The biofertilizer treatments without manures and
fertilizers showed very poor performance on tuber productivity of potato
under the study. The results showed that biofertilizer required organic ma-
nuring for its early establishment necessary for exerting beneficial effect
on tuber productivity. The results corroborate the findings of Kumar et al.
(2001).
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The authors thank the Director, Central Potato Research Institute,
Shimla (H.P.) and Head, Central Potato Research Station, Shillong, Megha-
laya for providing the field and laboratory facilities for undertaking this
investigation.
REFERENCES
Burman, R. R, M. Kumar, and K. M. Nagaraj. 2007. Organic potato production- practices and extension
strategy. In: Advances in Organic Farming Technology in India,eds.G.C.Munda,P.K.Ghosh,A.Das,
S. V. Nagchan, and K. M. Bujarbaruah, pp. 271–279. Umiam, India: ICAR Research Complex for
NEH Region.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
1082 M. Kumar et al.
Chadha, S., S. S. Rana, Rameshwar, and D. R. Chaudhary. 2006. Effect of split doses of N and K and FYM
level on the productivity of potato in cold desert region of HP. Potato Journal 33: 94–96.
Ghosh, D. C., P. Nandi, and K. Shiv Kumar. 2000. Effect of bio-fertilizer and growth regulator on
growth and productivity of potato (Solanum tuberosum) at different fertility levels. Indian Journal of
Agricultural Sciences 70: 466–468.
Giller, K. E., and G. Cadisch. 1995. Future benefits from biological nitrogen fixation: An ecological
approach to agriculture. Plant and Soil 174: 255–277.
Gomez, K. A., and A. A. Gomez. 1984. Statistical Procedures for Agricultural Research. New York: John Wiley
and Sons.
Indiresh, K. M., K. R. Sreekamulu, S. Patil, and V. Venkatesh. 2003. Response of potato to biofertilizers
at graded levels of chemical fertilizer. Journal of the Indian Potato Association 30: 79–80.
Jenssen, B. H. 1993. Integrated nutrient management: The use of organic and mineral fertilizer. In: The
Role of Plant Nutrients for Sustainable Food Crop Production in Sub-Saharan Africa, eds. H. Van Reuler,
and W. H. Prins, pp. 89–105. Leidschendam, The Netherlands: VKP.
Kumar, M., M. K. Jadav, and S. P. Trehan. 2008. Contributing of organic sources to potato nutrition at
varying nitrogen levels. In: Global Potato Conference, ed. J. Gopal, pp. 9–12. Shimla, India: Central
Potato Research Institute.
Kumar, V., R. C. Jaiswal, and A. P. Singh. 2001. Effect of biofertilizers on growth and yield of potato.
Journal of the Indian Potato Association 28: 6–7.
Malik, G. C., and D. C. Ghosh. 2002. Effect of fertility level, plant density and variety on growth and
productivity of potato. In: Potato: Global Research and Development, pp. 866–871. Shimla, India: Indian
Potato Association.
Mondal S. S., D. Acharya, A. Ghosh, and A. Bug. 2005. Integrated nutrient management on the growth,
productivity and quality of potato in indo-gangetic plain of west Bengal. Potato Journal 32: 75–78.
Mondal, S. S., and M. Chettri. 1998. Integrated nutrient management for sustaining productivity and
fertility under rice (Oryza sativa)-based cropping system. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences 68:
337–340.
Mondal, S. S., M. Saha, D. Acharya, D. Patra, and S. Chatterjee. 2007. Integrated effect of N and K with
or without sulphur and FYM on potato tuber yield. Storage and soil fertility status. Potato Journal 34:
97–98.
Mondal, S. S., and B. Sarkar. 2005. Effect of integrated nutrient management on the growth and produc-
tivity of potato (Solanum tuberosum). Environment and Ecology 23: 387–391.
Nandekar, D. N., S. D. Swarka, A. K. Naidu. 2006. Effect of biofertilizers and NPK on the growth and
yield of potato in satpura plateau. Potato Journal 33: 168–169.
Palm, C. A., R. J. K. Myers, S. M. Nandwa. 1993. Combined use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources
for soil fertility maintenance and replenishment. In: Replenishing Soil Fertility in Africa,eds.R.J.
Buresh, P. A. Sanchez, E. Calhoun, pp. 193–217. Madison, WI: American Society of Agronomy-Soil
Science Society of America.
Paul Khurana, S. M., and P. S. Naik. 2003. The Potato: An overview. In: The Potato: Production and
Utilization in Sub-tropics, eds., S. M. Paul Khurana, J. S. Minas, S. K. Pandy, pp. 1–14. New Delhi:
Mehta Publishers.
Sarkar, B., S. S. Mondal, S.S. Nayak, M. Saha, and S. Biswas. 2007. Integrated nutrient management for
the productivity and quality improvement of potato under irrigated condition. Potato Journal 34:
99–100.
Singh, K. 2002. Role of biofertilizers in increasing the efficiency of nitrogen to potato crop under
northeastern hill conditions. Journal of the Indian Potato Association 2: 904–907.
Singh, N. P., R. S. Sachan, P. C. Pandey, and R. S. Bisht. 1999. Effects of decade long fertilizer and manure
application on soil fertility and productivity of rice-wheat system in a Mollisol. Journal of the Indian
Society of Soil Science 47: 72–80.
Singh, S. N., B. P. Singh, O. P. Singh, R. Singh, and R. K. Singh. 2007. Effect of nitrogen application
in conjunction with bio-inoculant on the growth, yield and quality of potato under indo-gangetic
plain region. Potato Journal 34: 103–104.
Sood, M. C. 2007. Integrated nutrient supply and management for potato production in mid hills of
Shimla. Potato Journal 34: 101–102.
Upadhyaya, N. C., N. Singh, S. Ranwal, and P. Kumar. 2003. Response of two potato cultivars to vermi-
compost and inorganic fertilizers. Journal of the Indian Potato Association 30: 85–86.
Downloaded by [Manoj KUmar] at 00:12 20 April 2013
