Effect of Land Configuration and Rainfall on Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. under Saline Irrigation

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted in Eastern Block Farm of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to evaluate the effect of land configuration and rainfall on growth and yield of pearl millet under saline water irrigation in summer, 2024. The study was carried out in split plot design with three main plots (flatbed (M1), ridges and furrows (M2) and raised bed paired row planting (M3)) along with four subplot treatments (direct sowing (S1), 10 Day Old Seedlings (DOS) (S2), 15 DOS (modified dapog) (S3) and 20 DOS (S4)) which was replicated thrice. Water availability is a critical factor in influencing the length of the growing period while water quality significantly influences crop growth and yield. Consequently, rainfall received during the growing period affects plant height, Leaf Area Index (LAI), effective tillers and yield. The cumulative rainfall received 208 mm in 22 days and with 10 rainy days during the crop growth period. Rainfall between 40 to 60 Days After Sowing/Planting (DAS/P) corresponded with Crop Growth Rate (CGR). Among main plot treatments, ridges and furrows (M2) recorded higher plant height (173 cm) and effective tillers (2.6) at harvest. Grain and stover yields (t ha-1) were also higher in ridges and furrows (M2) (3.31 and 6.12, respectively) which was statistically on par with raised bed paired row planting (M3) (3.31 and 6.12, respectively).