Optimization of Seed Rate and Graded Levels of Nitrogen on Growth and Yield of Rice Fallow Finger Millet

Abstract

Rice-fallow finger millet is gaining importance as a resilient and nutritious crop for improving productivity and profitability in residual moisture ecosystems. Optimising seed rate and nitrogen nutrition is essential for achieving higher growth and yield under rice-fallow conditions. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi 2025-26 season at the Agricultural College Farm, Naira, Andhra Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of different seed rates and nitrogen levels on the growth and productivity of finger millet. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Four seed rates, viz., 7.5, 10.0, 12.5 and 15.0 kg ha⁻¹, were assigned to the main plots, while three nitrogen levels, viz., 45, 60 and 75 kg N ha⁻¹, were allotted to the subplots. The finger millet variety 'Indravathi' was used as the test crop. The results revealed that seed rate and nitrogen application significantly influenced plant height, dry matter production, yield and harvest index. Among the seed rates, 15.0 kg ha⁻¹ recorded the highest plant height, tiller production (70.9 m⁻²), dry matter accumulation, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index, and remained statistically comparable with 12.5 kg ha⁻¹. Lower values were observed with 7.5 kg ha⁻¹. Increasing nitrogen levels significantly improved crop growth and productivity. Application of 75 kg N ha⁻¹ produced the highest plant height, tiller density, dry matter production, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index, whereas the lowest values were recorded with 45 kg N ha⁻¹. The interaction effects between seed rate and nitrogen level were significant for grain and straw yields. The treatment combination of 15.0 kg seed ha⁻¹ with 75 kg N ha⁻¹ (M₄S₃) recorded the highest grain and straw yields, while the lowest grain yield was obtained with 7.5 kg seed ha⁻¹ and 45 kg N ha⁻¹ (M₁S₁). The study concluded that a seed rate of 15.0 kg ha⁻¹ combined with 75 kg N ha⁻¹ was effective for improving the growth, biomass production and productivity of rice-fallow finger millet under the North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh.