Improving Productivity and Profitability of Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach) in Manipur through Micronutrient Supplementation
R. Joseph Koireng *
Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-791004, Manipur, India.
Tanu Oinam
Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-791004, Manipur, India.
Osi Siram
Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-791004, Manipur, India.
Govindaraj Kamalam Dinesh
Department of Biochemistry, Physiology, Microbiology and Environmental Science, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba, Imphal, Manipur - 795 004, India.
Sonam Lhamu
Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-791004, Manipur, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
A three-year field experiment (2021 to 2023) was conducted at the experimental farm of CAU, Andro, Manipur, to evaluate the effect of micronutrient management on growth, yield, quality, and economics of Napier hybrid (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach). The study employed a randomized block design consisting of six treatments, replicated four times. Regarding growth attributes such as plant height, leaf-stem ratio, number of leaves and stem girth. Yield parameters were significantly influenced by micronutrient management, with the maximum green fodder yield (728.11q/ha) in T4 (GRDF + soil-applied micronutrients). At the same time, T3 (GRDF + FYM) recorded the highest dry matter yield (140.93 q/ha) and crude protein yield (13.44 q/ha). Economic analysis revealed that the highest net returns (Rs. 121,151/ha) and benefit-cost ratio (3.74) were achieved. Post-harvest soil nutrient analysis showed that integrated nutrient management, particularly with FYM and micronutrient supplementation, resulted in improved N, P, K, and micronutrient status. The research findings support that RDF ensures basic productivity, and the integration of FYM and micronutrients significantly enhances yield, quality, and profitability. T4 (GRDF + soil-applied micronutrients) is the most sustainable practice for Napier hybrid cultivation under irrigated conditions.
Keywords: Napier hybrid, micronutrient management, growth, yield, crude protein, economics, soil fertility