Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management with VAM on Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Sorghum

Abstract

This study evaluated the impact of integrated nutrient management practices and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on sorghum yield, nutrient uptake, and soil fertility in swell-shrink soils. Eight treatments, including recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and various organic amendments (FYM, vermicompost) with and without AMF, were tested in a randomized block design with three replications during the Kharif season 2022-23. Results indicated that the application of 75% RDF combined with vermicompost (2.5 t ha-1) and AMF (5 kg ha-1) significantly enhanced sorghum yield and total nutrient uptake. This particular treatment (T7) demonstrated a marked improvement in yield, achieving a 116.5% increase in grain yield and a 120.2% increase in fodder yield over the control. These results indicate that combining reduced fertilizer inputs with organic amendments and AMF can effectively enhance sorghum productivity while potentially reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers. Further analysis revealed strong, positive correlations between yield and the uptake of essential nutrients, including nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S). This indicates that treatments combining AMF and organic amendments not only support higher crop productivity but also optimize nutrient availability in the soil. Enhanced nutrient uptake was particularly evident with the T7 treatment, where AMF likely played a pivotal role in improving phosphorus availability by secreting phosphatase enzymes, supporting both nutrient dynamics and overall crop health. This integrated approach demonstrated its potential for improving soil health and agricultural productivity in swell-shrink soil environments.