Growth, Yield and Nutrient Response of Proso Millet Varieties to Graded NPK Fertilizer Levels

Abstract

Adequate supply of nutrients along with other crop management practices plays a crucial role in realizing the yield potential of proso millet; however, varietal response to fertilizer application often varies. A field experiment was conducted during the kharif 2023 season at the Agricultural Research Station, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, to assess the performance of proso millet varieties under varying levels of NPK fertilisation. The study was arranged in a split-plot design with three replications. The main-plot treatments consisted of four fertiliser regimes: F0 – absolute control; F1 – 75% of the recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF); F2 – 100% RDF; and F3 – 125% RDF. The sub-plot treatments consisted of two pre release proso millet varieties (V1: DHPM-6-3; V2: DHPM-8-3) along with two national checks (V3: TNPm 230, V4: TNAU 202). The experimental soil was sandy loam in texture. The results indicated that application of 125% RDF recorded superior yield attributes, grain yield (1357 kg ha⁻¹), profitability and nutrient uptake; however, it remained statistically on par with 100% RDF (1255 kg ha⁻¹). Among the varieties evaluated, DHPM-6-3 outperformed the others by registering higher grain yield, net returns, benefit–cost ratio and nutrient uptake in grain. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that application of 100% RDF is the most efficient fertilizer level for proso millet, as it achieved yields comparable to 125% RDF while saving 25% of fertilizer inputs, thereby improving input-use efficiency and promoting sustainable nutrient management.