Effect of Vermicompost and Biochar on Physio-chemical Properties of Soil Growth and Yield Attributes of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)

Abstract

A field investigation was conducted at department of soil science and agricultural chemistry under SHUATS, NAI, Prayagraj (Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh, India during Zaid season of 2023. The experimental field is located at 250 24’ 30” N latitude and 810 51’ 10” E longitude and 98 m above MSL (Mean -sea level). The aim of the study was to assess “Effect of Vermicompost and Biochar on physio-chemical properties of soil growth and yield attributes of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp). The experimental plot was laid down into a randomized block design with 9 treatments replicated thrice, consisting of levels of RDF, 3 levels of vermicompost (0%, 50%, 100%) ,3 levels of Biochar (0%, 50%, 100%) respectively. The result revealed that maximum bulk density (Mg m-3), particle density (Mg m-3) and soil pH are found at T1 (Absolute Control). The other best soil parameters are pore space (%), water holding capacity (%), organic carbon (%), electrical conductivity, available nitrogen (kg ha-1), available phosphorus (kg ha-1), available potassium (kg ha-1) found maximum at T9 (RDF + Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @100% (3t ha -1). Other findings showed that growth parameters like plant height (cm), length of pod (cm), no. of pod plant-1 are maximum at T9 (RDF + Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @100% (3t ha -1)) may be because of proper availability of nutrients in adequate amount. Highest yield was recorded in T9 (RDF + Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @100% (3t ha -1)).Maximum economic parameters as maximum gross return (79,960.00₹ ha-1) find at T9 (RDF + Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @100% (3t ha -1)) , best cost benefit ratio (B:C) found (1:2.6) at T9 (RDF + Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @100% (3t ha -1)) and maximum net return found (₹31,260 ha-1) at T8 (RDF+Vermicompost @100% (5t ha-1) + Biochar @50% (1.5t ha-1)).