Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Yield, Quality, and Economic Viability of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abstract

Indian mustard, scientifically known as Brassica juncea L., is one of the most important oilseed crops cultivated in India and other parts of South Asia. Its significance stems from both its economic value and agronomic adaptability. A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024–25 at the Agricultural Farm of Mewar University, Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) to evaluate the impact of integrated nutrient management (INM) on the growth, yield, quality, and economic returns of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). The study, laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatment combinations replicated thrice, involved varying levels of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) combined with two levels of vermicompost (2.0 and 5.0 t ha⁻¹), along with a control. The experimental soil was clay loam, slightly saline (EC 0.95 dS/m), and moderately fertile. The results showed significant improvements in plant growth, yield attributes, and quality parameters due to INM practices. The treatment comprising 100% RDF + vermicompost @ 5.0 t ha⁻¹ recorded the highest values for plant height (173.94 cm), dry matter accumulation (20.93 g/plant), number of branches (12.32), siliquae per plant (211.04), seeds per siliqua (18.14), test weight (3.42 g), seed yield (1675 kg/ha), and stover yield (4832 kg/ha). This treatment also achieved the highest net return (₹68,250/ha) and benefit-cost ratio (1.97). The findings suggest that the integrated application of 100% RDF with 5.0 t ha⁻¹ vermicompost is optimal for enhancing the productivity and profitability of Indian mustard under similar agro-climatic conditions.