Effect of Nitrogen and Potassium Fertilization Strategies on Biochemical Constituents of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2023 at MJRP College of Agriculture and Research, Jaipur, to investigate the influence of nitrogen and potassium fertilization strategies on grain biochemical quality and nutrient uptake in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) grown under semi-arid conditions. The experimental design consisted of eight treatments laid out in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatments included a control (no fertilizers), recommended dose of fertilizers (60 kg N ha⁻¹ + 30 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ + 20 kg K₂O ha⁻¹), combinations of increased nitrogen (80 and 100 kg ha⁻¹) and potassium (20 and 40 kg ha⁻¹), and a site-specific soil test-based nutrient application (78 kg N ha⁻¹ + 21 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ + 14 kg K₂O ha⁻¹). Grain samples were analyzed for total protein, amino acid, and carbohydrate content, while nutrient content and uptake (N, P, and K) were measured at harvest. The results indicated that grain quality parameters significantly improved with increased nitrogen and potassium application. The treatment receiving 100 kg N ha⁻¹ + 30 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹ + 40 kg K₂O ha⁻¹ recorded the highest total protein (14.47%), total amino acids (743.85 mg 100g⁻¹), and total carbohydrates (69.55 g 100g⁻¹), along with the maximum uptake of N, P, and K. The soil test-based treatment also showed favorable responses, demonstrating the efficacy of tailored nutrient management. The study underscores the importance of balanced and site-specific fertilization in improving the nutritional quality and nutrient use efficiency of pearl millet, promoting sustainable intensification in dryland agriculture.