Effect of enriched FYM and rice residue compost on growth, productivity and economics of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan)

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2020 and 2021 at the research farm of ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to evaluate the performance of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp] as affected by enriched organic formulations. The experiment comprised of seven nutrient sources, viz. control; 100% RDN through FYM; 100% RDN through improved RRC (Rice Residue Compost); 100% RDN through PHA (Paddy Husk Ash) enriched FYM; 75% RDN through PHA enriched FYM; 100% RDN through PPC (Potato Peel Compost) enriched FYM; and 75% RDN through PPC enriched FYM that were tested in randomized block design and replicated thrice. Significantly higher number of pods per plant was observed with the application of 100% RDN through PHA enriched FYM over control during both the years of study. The same treatment resulted into statistically higher yields of seed (1.89; 1.97 t/ha) and stover (7.83; 8.03 t/ha) over control and remained at par with 100% RDN through PPC enriched FYM and FYM during both the years. Results further indicated that highest gross returns, net returns and net B:C ratio (₹121.2 × 103 and 131.9 × 103/ha; ₹94.9 × 103 and 104.6 × 103/ha; 3.60 and 3.84) were obtained with 100% RDN through PHA enriched FYM over control and remain at par with treatment 100% RDN through PPC enriched FYM and FYM. Significantly maximum amount of available N in soil after harvest of pigeonpea crop was obtained under application of 100% RDN through PPC enriched FYM (229.1 and 231.9 kg/ha) over control. Further, application of 100% RDN through RRC showed superiority in increasing the available K (264.9 and 265.0 kg/ha) content in soil over control and other nutrient sources during both the years.