Production potential and nutrient uptake efficiency of pea (Pisum sativum L) as influenced by different fertility levels and micronutrients

Abstract

A pot experiment was conducted during 2005 and 2006 to study the effects of cobalt, boron, molybdenum on yield of and nutrient uptake by pea under graded levels of soils fertility. At higher level of soil fertility [F2: P2S2Zn2 (60:40:5 mg pot-1 of P2O5, sulphur and zinc)], growth and yield performance of the crop along with nutrient uptake was significantly better irrespective of the micronutrients applied. Maximum grain and vine yield (140 and 183 g pot-1, respectively) of the crop was recorded at higher level of soil fertility. At every level of fertility, micronutrients application augmented the growth and yield of the crop along with nutrient uptake. Combined application of the micronutrients proved superior to their sole applications. Sole application of Co was significantly better than those of B and Mo in boosting up the crop performance. Approximately, 67% increase in number and weight of nodules was observed over control owing to sole application of Co. At every level of fertility, maximum uptake of N, P and S was contributed by combined application of Co, B and Mo although sole application of Co also yielded quite comparable results.