Effect of Conservation Tillage on Yield and Economics of Fodder Crops

Abstract

In order to find out the efficacy of conservation tillage on yield and economics of fodder crops over conventional tillage in new alluvial zone of West Bengal, a field experiment was conducted at Central Research Farm, Gayeshpur, West Bengal, India during summer season of 2016 and 2017 comprising 3 tillage practices (T1: zero tillage, T2: minimum tillage, T3: conventional tillage) in main plot and 4 fodder crops (C1: maize, C2: sorghum, C3: rice bean, C4: cowpea) in subplot and replicated thrice in a split plot design. Mean data confirmed the superiority of conservation tillage over conventional tillage in improving soil status and thereby, crop performance. Cereal crop maize when grown under zero tillage produced highest green forage yield (42.33 t/ha), dry matter yield (7.84 t/ha). However, regarding crude protein yield, cowpea showed superiority over others specially when grown under zero tillage condition (1.071 t/ha). Mean data also stated that legume crops under conservation tillage remained economically more viable than cereal crops. Specifically, cultivation of cowpea under zero tillage condition was economically most profitable (B:C of 2.21) and therefore can be recommended in this region.