Effect of Nitrogen and Potassium on Growth Attribute and Nutrient Availability of Pearl Millet

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2023 at MJRP College of Agriculture and Research, Jaipur, to evaluate the effect of nitrogen and potassium on growth parameters and soil nutrient availability in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). The experiment comprised eight treatments arranged in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Treatments included varying levels of nitrogen (60, 80, and 100 kg ha⁻¹) and potassium (20 and 40 kg ha⁻¹), along with a fixed phosphorus dose (30 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹) and a soil test-based treatment. The hybrid variety PHB-3 was used, and observations were recorded on plant population, height, dry matter production, and post-harvest soil properties at two depths (0–15 cm and 15–30 cm). Results indicated that nutrient management significantly influenced all growth parameters. The treatment T7 (100 kg N + 30 kg P₂O₅ + 40 kg K₂O ha⁻¹) produced the highest plant population (117628 ha⁻¹), plant height (172.60 cm), and dry matter yield (7539.67 kg ha⁻¹). Soil analysis revealed that this treatment also resulted in higher values of organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and available nitrogen and potassium, especially at the 15–30 cm depth. The soil test-based treatment (T8- Application of N, P2O5 and K2O based on Soil Test Values.) also improved soil fertility indicators, highlighting the benefit of targeted nutrient application. The balanced application of nitrogen and potassium significantly enhances both crop performance and soil fertility under rainfed conditions. The results emphasize the importance of integrated nutrient management, particularly in semi-arid regions where soil fertility is often limiting. Adoption of such practices can help achieve higher and more sustainable productivity in pearl millet cultivation, while also maintaining long-term soil health.