Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Fertility and Economics of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Dehradun, India

Abstract

Maintaining soil fertility and optimizing input use are vital for the long-term productivity of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.). Excessive use of chemical fertilizers in major mustard-growing regions has caused nutrient imbalances, soil degradation, and reduced profitability. Integrated nutrient management (INM), which combines chemical fertilizers with organic amendments and biofertilizers, provides an effective approach to sustain yields while improving soil health. A field experiment was conducted at Jigyasa University’s Agronomy Research Farm, Dehradun, during the Rabi season of 2023–2024 to evaluate the effects of INM on soil fertility and economic performance. The randomized block design included nine treatments involving vermicompost, biofertilizers (Azotobacter + PSB), and recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF). Soil samples before sowing and after harvest were analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), and available nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Economic parameters such as cost of cultivation, gross return, net return, and benefit–cost (B:C) ratio were also assessed. The results indicated substantial improvements in soil fertility under INM compared to RDF alone. The treatment with 80% RDF + vermicompost + biofertilizer (T4) recorded the highest post-harvest OC (1.11%), while sole RDF (T1) showed the lowest (0.49%). T4 also had the highest available nitrogen (165.10 kg/ha) and phosphorus (15.43 kg/ha), reflecting enhanced nutrient mineralization and solubilization due to organic inputs and beneficial microbes. Soil pH and EC stabilized under integrated treatments, indicating better regulation of soil chemical properties. Economically, T4 remained the most profitable, with gross return of ₹124,111.70/ha, net return of ₹80,125.66/ha, and B:C ratio of 1.82. Treatments with only vermicompost (T8) or only biofertilizers (T9) were less profitable because of lower yields and higher input costs. Overall, INM with vermicompost and biofertilizers along with 80% RDF improved soil fertility, enhanced productivity, and increased economic returns, offering a sustainable and profitable nutrient management option for mustard cultivation.