Influence of Organic, Inorganic and Integrated Nutrient Management on Productivity, Nutrient Uptake and Soil Biological Properties of Sesame

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different nutrient management practices on growth, yield, nutrient uptake, soil properties, microbial activity and grain quality of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.). The treatments included organic farming, inorganic farming, integrated nutrient management (INM), natural farming and control. Nutrient sources significantly influenced crop growth and productivity. Plant height was higher under organic farming at 30 DAS, whereas INM recorded significantly greater plant height at 60 DAS and at harvest. Yield attributes such as number of branches, capsules plant⁻¹, capsule length and seeds capsule⁻¹ were significantly superior under INM. The highest seed yield (588 kg ha⁻¹) and stover yield (2572 kg ha⁻¹) were obtained under INM, followed by organic and inorganic farming, while control recorded the lowest yield. Nutrient uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium was significantly higher under INM at later growth stages. Soil pH and EC were not influenced by treatments; however, soil organic carbon and available N and K were significantly improved under INM. Organic farming enhanced microbial populations and soil enzymatic activities. Grain quality analysis indicated higher crude protein under inorganic farming and higher crude fat under organic farming. Overall, integrated nutrient management proved most effective for improving sesame productivity while sustaining soil fertility.