EFFECT OF ORGANIC SOURCES OF NITROGEN ON GROWTH,

YIELD AND QUALITY OF BABY CORN

by

Miss Kharche Priyanka Pramod

(Reg. No. 016/017)

MASTER OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE)

DIVISION OF AGRONOMY

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, PUNE

MAHATMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPEETH,
RAHURI- 413 722, DIST- AHMEDNAGAR
MAHARASHTRA STATE (INDIA)
2018
 I

“EFFECT OF ORGANIC SOURCES OF NITROGEN ON GROWTH,

YIELD AND QUALITY OF BABY CORN”

by

Miss Kharche Priyanka Pramod

(Reg. No. 016/017)

A Thesis submitted to the

MAHATMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPEETH,
RAHURI- 413 722, DIST- AHMEDNAGAR,
MAHARASHTRA, INDIA

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree

of

MASTER OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE)

in

AGRONOMY

DIVISION OF AGRONOMY
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, PUNE
MAHATMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPEETH,
RAHURI- 413 722, DIST- AHMEDNAGAR
MAHARASHTRA STATE (INDIA)
2018
 II

“EFFECT OF ORGANIC SOURCES OF NITROGEN ON GROWTH,

YIELD AND QUALITY OF BABY CORN”

by

Miss Kharche Priyanka Pramod

(Reg. No. 016/017)

A Thesis submitted to the

MAHATMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPEETH,
RAHURI- 413 722, DIST- AHMEDNAGAR,
MAHARASHTRA, INDIA

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree

of

MASTER OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE)

in

AGRONOMY

APPROVED BY

Prof. T. S. Bhondave
Chairman and Research Guide
Associate Professor of Agronomy,
College of Agriculture, Pune

Dr. G. D. Patil Prof.N. T. Kunjir

Committee Member and Committee Member and
Asso. Prof. of Soil Science Asst. Prof. of Agronomy,
and Agril. Chemistry College of Agriculture, Pune
College of Agriculture, Pune

DIVISION OF AGRONOMY,
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, PUNE
MAHATMA PHULE KRISHI VIDYAPEETH,
RAHURI- 413 722, DIST- AHMEDNAGAR
MAHARASHTRA STATE (INDIA)
[2018]
 III

CANDIDATE’SDECLARATION

I hereby declare that this thesis or part

thereof has not been submitted by
me or any other person to any
other University or Institute
for a Degree or
Diploma

Place : Pune
Date : / /2018 (Kharche Priyanka P.)
 IV
Prof. T. S. Bhondave
Chairman and Research Guide,
Associate Professor of Agronomy,
College of Agriculture, Pune
Maharashtra (India)

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the thesis entitled, “Effect of Organic Sources of

Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Quality of Baby Corn” submitted to the Faculty
of Agriculture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar (Maharashtra)
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of MASTER OF
SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE) in AGRONOMY, embodies the result of a piece of bonafide
research work carried out by Miss KHARCHE PRIYANKA PRAMOD under my guidance
and supervision and that no part of the thesis has been submitted for any other degree or
diploma.
The assistance and help received during the course of this investigation have been duly
acknowledged.

Place : Pune (T. S. Bhondave)

Date : / /2018 Research Guide
 V
Dr. A. B. Kamble
Professor,
Division of Agronomy,
College of Agriculture, Pune
Maharashtra (India)

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the thesis entitled,“Effect of Organic Sources of

Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Quality of Baby Corn” submitted to the Faculty
of Agriculture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar (Maharashtra)
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of MASTER OF
SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE) in AGRONOMY, embodies the results of a piece of
bonafide research carried out by Miss KHARCHE PRIYANKA PRAMOD under the
guidance and supervision of Prof. T. S. BHONDAVE, Associate Professor of Agronomy,
College of Agriculture, Pune and that no part of the thesis has been submitted for any other
degree or diploma.

Place : Pune
Date : / /2018 (A. B. Kamble)
 VI
Dr. P. N.Rasal
Associate Dean,
College of Agriculture,Pune.
Maharashtra (India)

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the thesis entitled,“Effect of Organic Sources of

Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Quality of Baby Corn” submitted to the Faculty
of Agriculture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Dist. Ahmednagar (Maharashtra)
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of degree of MASTER OF
SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE) in AGRONOMY, embodies the results of a piece of
bonafide research carried out by Miss KHARCHE PRIYANKA PRAMOD under the
guidance and supervision of Prof. T. S. BHONDAVE, Associate Professor of Agronomy,
College of Agriculture, Pune and that no part of the thesis has been submitted for any other
degree or diploma.

Place : Pune
Date : / /2018 (P. N. Rasal)
 VII

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

“Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a

present and not giving it.”

-William Arthur Ward

This thesis has been kept on track and been seen through to
completion with the support and encouragement of numerous
people. I am deeply grateful to all those people who made this thesis
possible and an unforgettable experience. It is a pleasant task to
express my thanks to all those who contributed in many ways to the
success of this study.

Foremost, I would like to express my sincere and deepest

gratitude and indebtness to my research guide and chairman of
advisory committee, Prof. T. S. Bhondave, Associate Professor of
Agronomy, College of Agriculture , Pune , for his continuous support
and subtle guidance through providing suggestions, constructive
comments and valuable information throughout the course of this
investigation and preparation of the manuscript. I really fortunate
and feel extremely honored for the opportunity to work under his
guidance and motivation.

I am particularly grateful for the encouragement, insightful

comments and assistance, given by the members of my advisory
committee Dr. G.D. Patil, Associate Professor of Soil Science &Agril.
Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Pune and Prof. N. T. Kunjir,
Assistant Professor of Agronomy, College of Agriculture , Pune .

I offer my sincerest gratitude to Dr P. N. Rasal, Associate Dean,

College of Agriculture, Pune for giving permission and providing
necessary facilities for the research work. I owe a very important
debt to Dr. D. W. Thawal (Ex.Professor of Agronomy) and Dr. A. B.
Kamble, Professor of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Pune, for
their valuable guidance and kind co-operation during the conduct
of investigation.

It’s my fortune to gratefully acknowledge the support of Prof. A.

A. Shaikh, Dr. D. A. Sonawane Asso. Prof. of Agronomy, Dr.R. L.
Bhilare, Dr. S. V. Bagade, Prof. S. B. Deshmukh, Prof. A. G.
Jadhav,Prof. S. G. Kumbhar and Dr. Miss R. H. Shinde, Asstt. Prof. of
Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Pune for their timely help and co-
operation during completion of my course and research work.

I gratefully acknowledge Mr. R. Ghorpade, Mr. M. Wavhal, Shri

D.S. Ladkat, Shri.T. A. Awari, pavan gawande and all the staff for
 VIII

their kind co-operation in the laboratory and field work. I wish to

thank Gore maushi ,raju mama and all the laborer of Agronomy
farm for their warm affection. I am also obliged to all authors
whose literatures have been cited in this manuscript.

In my daily work I have been blessed with friendly and

cheerful friends. I would like to express the deepest appreciation and
warm thanks to my seniors Mahesh Jat, Amol, Pravin, Pooja and my
friends Payal, Manisha, Sneha, Anita, Shrutika, Sushant, Akshay,
Narayan, Ganesh, Rohidas, Shubham, Pallavi, Shilpa ,Vinitha,
juniors Sneha, Abhijeet, Sonal, Gaurav, Laxman, Niranjan from
whom I received generous help and valuable support throughout my
Master’s degree period.

Words fail me to express my hearty feelings for my family. I

would like to pay high regards to my Late Grandparents Mr.
Dattatray Patil, Mrs. Vimal D. Patil, Mr. Pundlik Chopade& Mrs.
Parvati P. Chopade. I would like to offer my special thanks to my late
aunt Mrs. Meenakshi Naphade, who, is no longer with me but she
continues to inspire me. I express my deep sense of appreciation to
my beloved parents Mr. Pramod Patil and Mrs.Radha Patil, uncle
Shri. Dilip Naphade, Murlidhar warade, uncle Vinod, uncle Mayur,
aunt sarala, aunt Poonam, aunt minal, brother Jayesh and my
cousins Anant, Pranav, Shilpa, Amit Naphade, Ashish Naphade,
brother-in-law Ujwal Narkhede, sister-in-law Priya for their
encouragement and inspiration throughout the course of my degree
and lifting me uphill this phase of life. I owe everything to them.

I offer my thanks to all those who have helped me directly or

indirectly during the course of my study. I thank all the family of
MPKV, Rahuri for giving me this opportunity as well as providing
every facility in time to complete my research work. Last but not least
I thank Almighty for the wisdom and perseverance that he has
bestowed upon me during this research project, and indeed,
throughout my life.

Place:Pune
Date : / / 2018 Kharche Priyanka Pramod
IX
 IX
CONTENTS
Chapter No. Title Page No.
CANDIDATE’S DECLARATION III
CERTIFICATE OF RESEARCH GUIDE IV
CERTIFICATE OF HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT V
CERTIFICATE OF ASSOCIATE DEAN VI
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT VII
CONTENTS IX
LIST OF TABLES XI
LIST OF FIGURES XIII
LIST OF PLATES XIV
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONSAND SYMBOLS XV
ABSTRACT XVII
1. INTRODUCTION 1
2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 4
2 Crop studies 4
2.1 Effect of organic manurial combination on
growth, yield attributes and yield of maize 4

2.2 Effect of organic manurial combination on

quality of maize 11

2.3 Effect of organic manurial combination on

nutrient uptake of crop 12

2.4 Effect of organic manurial combination on soil

and its properties 13

2.5 Effect of organic manurial combination on

economics 14

3. MATERIAL AND METHODS 17

3.1 Details of experimental material 17
3.2 Details of the experimental methods 20
3.3 Biometric observations 23
3.3.1 Plant count 23
3.3.2 Growth studies 25
3.3.3 Post harvest studies 25
3.3.4 Quality studies 26
3.3.5 Chemical studies 26
3.3.6 Meteorological studies 29
3.3.7 Economic studies 30
3.4 Statistical analysis and interpretation of data 30
4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 31
4.1 Plant population of baby corn 31
4.2 Growth studies 31
4.2.1 Plant height 31
4.2.2 Number of functional leaves plant-1 34
4.2.3 Dry matter plant-1 34
4.2.4 Leaf area plant-1 37
4.2.5 Days to silk initiation 37
 X
4.3 Post harvest studies 39
4.3.1 Number of baby corn plant-1 39
4.3.2 Length of baby corn plant-1 40
4.3.4 Weight of baby corn plant-1 40
4.3.5 Girth of baby corn plant-1 41
4.4 Yield studies 43
4.4.1 Baby corn yield 43
4.4.2 Green fodder yield 43
4.5 Quality studies 45
4.5.1 Protein content 45
4.5.2 Sugar content 45
4.5.3 Carbohydrate content 45
4.6 Chemical studies 46
4.6.1 N, P and K content in baby corn and stover 46
4.6.1.1 N, P and K content in baby cob 46
4.6.1.2 N, P and K content in stover 46
4.6.2 N, P and K uptake by baby corn and stover 49
4.6.2.1 N, P and K uptake by baby cob 49
4.6.2.2 N, P and K content by stover 49
4.6.2.3 Total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and
49
potassium by baby corn
4.6.3 Soil chemical properties at harvest of baby
52
corn
4.6.4 Soil pH 52
4.6.5 Soil EC 52
4.6.6 Soil organic carbon 52
4.6.7 Soil microbial population 53
4.7 Meteorological observations 55
4.7.1 Canopy temperature 55
4.7.2 Growing degree days 56
4.8 Economics 57
5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 59
5.1 Summary 59
5.2 Conclusion 62
6. LITERATURE CITED 63
7. APPENDICES 72
8. VITAE 74
 XI
LIST OF TABLES
Table No. Title Page No.
3.1 Physical and chemical properties of experimental soil 18
Weekly weather data during the experimental period (November-16
3.2 19
to February-17)

3.3 Cropping history of the experimental field 20

3.4 Treatment details with their symbols 21
3.5 Composition of organic manures 21
Schedule of cultural operations carried out in the experimental field
3.6 24
during Rabi - 2016-17
Details of biometric observations recorded during the period of
3.7 27
investigation

3.8 Methods used for analysis of NPK from biological material 29

Initial and final plant count of baby corn as influenced by different
4.1 32
treatments
Plant height plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
4.2 33
different treatments
Number of functional leaves plant-1 as influenced periodically by
4.3 35
different treatments
Dry matter plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
4.4 36
different treatments
Leaf area plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by different
4.5 38
treatments
Days to silk initiation of baby corn as influenced by different
4.6 39
treatments
Number of baby cobs plant-1 of baby corn as influenced by different
4.7 40
treatments
Length, weight and girth of baby corn as influenced by different
4.8 42
treatments

4.9 Yield of baby corn as influenced by different treatments 44

Quality parameters of baby corn as influenced by different
4.10 47
treatments
N, P and K content in baby corn and stover as influenced by
4.11 48
different treatments
Nutrient uptake by baby corn and stover as influenced by different
4.12 50
treatments
Total nutrient uptake by baby corn as influenced by different
4.13 51
treatments
 XII
Soil chemical properties at harvest of baby corn as influenced by
4.14 54
different treatments
Microbial population in the soil after harvest of baby corn as
4.15 55
influenced by different treatments
Canopy temperature of baby corn as influenced periodically by
4.16 56
different treatments
Cumulative growing degree days of baby corn at critical growth
4.17 57
stages as influenced by different treatments
Cost of cultivation, gross and net monetary returns and benefit cost
4.18 58
ratio of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
 XIII
LIST OF FIGURES
After
Table No. Title
Page No.
Weekly weather data during the experimental period (November-12
3.1 20
to March-13)

3.2 Plan of layout 21

Plant height plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
4.1 36
different treatments
Number of functional leaves plant-1 as influenced periodically by
4.2 36
different treatments
Dry matter plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
4.3 40
different treatments
Leaf area plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by different
4.4 40
treatments
Number of days to silk initiation of baby corn as influenced by
4.5 40
different treatments
Length, weight and girth of baby cob of baby corn as influenced by
4.6 44
different treatments

4.7 Yield of baby corn as influenced by different treatments 44

N, P and K content in baby corn and stover as influenced by
4.8 54
different treatments
Total nutrient uptake by baby corn as influenced by different
4.9 54
treatments
Available N, P and K in soil at harvest of baby corn as influenced
4.10 54
by different treatments
Cost of cultivation, gross and net monetaryreturns of baby corn as
4.11 58
influenced by different treatments
 XIV
LIST OF PLATES
Plate After
Title
No. Page No.
4.1 General view of experimental plot. 32
4.2 Comparison of T9 (50 % RDN through poultry manure+ 50 % RDN 34
through neem seed cake) and T4 (100 % RDN through neem seed
cake)

4.3 Comparison of T3 (100% RDN through poultry manure) and T6 34

(100% RDN through cotton seed cake)

4.4 Comparison of T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN 38

through poultry manure) and T11 (50 % RDN through castor seed
cake+ 50 % RDN through cotton seed cake)

4.5 Comparison of T5 (100% RDN through castor seed cake) and T1 38

(100% RDN through FYM)

4.6 Treatment T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN 38

through poultry manure)

4.7 Treatment T3 (100% RDN through poultry manure) 38

4.8 Comparison of T2 (100% RDN through vermicompost) and T12 40

(Absolute control)
4.9 Treatment T3 (100% RDN through poultry manure) at harvest 40

4.10 Comparison of cobs (with husk) in T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 42

% RDN through vermicompost) and T2 (100% RDN through
vermicompost)

4.11 Comparison of T3 ((100% RDN through poultry manure) and T8 (50 42

% RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure)
4.12 Comparison of cobs (with husk) in T12 (Absolute control) and T3 44
(100% RDN through poultry manure)

4.13 Comparison of cobs (without husk) in T12 (Absolute control) and T3 44

(100% RDN through poultry manure)
 XV
LIST OF ABBREVIATION AND SYMBOLS

°C : Degree Celsius
MW : Meteorological Week
RH : Relative Humidity
Min. : Minimum
Max. : Maximum
H2O2 : Hydrogen Peroxide
i.e. : id est (that is)
% : Per cent
@ : At the rate of
₹ : Rupees
N : Nitrogen
P : Phosphorus
K : Potassium
BSH : Bright Sunshine Hours
Kg : Kilogram
ha : Hectare
-1
: Per
DAS : Days After Sowing
PM : Poultry Manure
VC : Vermicompost
FYM : Farm Yard Manure
RDN : Recommended Dose of Nitrogen
CFU : Colony forming unit
J. : Journal
Ecol. : Ecology
Int. : International
Agron. : Agronomy
Agric. : Agriculture, Agricultural
Biol. : Biology, Biological
Biomed. : Biomedical
Tech. : Technology
Dev. : Development
Res. : Research
dSm-1 : Deci Siemens per metre
dm2 : Deci metre square
 XVI
mm : Millimetre
cm : Centimetre
m : Metre
m2 : Square Metre
q : Quintal
S.E. : Standard Error
C.D. : Critical Difference
Viz., : Videlicet
Fig. : Figure
et al. : et alli (and others)
Curr. : Current
Microbiol. : Microbiology
Rev. : Review
Hortl. : Horticulture
Vet. : Veterinary
Med. : Medicine
Adv. : Advanced
App. : Applied
Pak. : Pakistan
Bt. : Biotechnology
Pharm. : Pharma
etc. : et cetera (and so on)
H2SO4 : Sulphuric Acid
pH : Puissance de Hydrogen
EC : Electrical Conductivity
OC : Organic Carbon
GDD : Growing Degree Days
ml : Millilitre
g : Gram
t : Tonne
RDF : Recommended dose of fertilizer
B:C : Benefit Cost ratio
Govt. : Government
USDA : United states department of Agriculture
GMR : Gross monetary returns
NMR : Net monetary returns
 XVII

ABSTRACT

“EFFECT OF ORGANIC SOURCES OF NITROGEN ON GROWTH,

YIELD AND QUALITY OF BABY CORN”
by
KHARCHE PRIYANKA PRAMOD
A candidate for the degree
of
MASTER OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE)
in
AGRONOMY
2018
Research Guide : Prof. T. S. Bhondave
Division : Agronomy

The present investigation entitled “Effect of organic sources of nitrogen on growth, yield
and quality of baby corn” was conducted during rabi season of 2016-17 at Agronomy Organic
Farm, College of Agriculture, Pune. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design
with twelve treatments and three replications. The gross and net plot size were 4.20 m x 3.60 m
and 3.80 m x 2.40 m, respectively. The treatments consisted of T1 -100 % RDN through FYM,T2
-100 % RDN through vermicompost, T3 -100 % RDN through poultry manure, T4 -100 % RDN
through neem seed cake, T5 -100 % RDN through castor seed cake, T6 -100 % RDN through
cotton seed cake, T7 -50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost, T8 -50 %
RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure, T9 -50 % RDN through
poultry manure + 50 % RDN through neem seed cake, T10 -50 % RDN through neem seed cake
+50 % RDN through castor seed cake, T11-50 % RDN through castor seed cake +50 % RDN
through cotton seed cake and T12 -Absolute control.
The soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, low in available nitrogen
(178.14 kg ha-1) medium in available phosphorus (21.58 kg ha-1), high in available potassium
(321.20 kg ha-1) and was alkaline in reaction (pH 7.5) low in organic carbon content (0.49 %)
and EC was (0.28 dSm-1).
Baby corn variety Gold-999 was sown @ 30 kg seed ha-1 at spacing of 60 cm × 10 cm, on
18th November, 2016 and harvesting completed on 21st February, 2017. Nitrogen @ 120 kg
ha-1 was applied to soil before sowing through various organic sources as per treatments. The
optimum plant population was maintained by thinning and gap filling, the crop was irrigated as
per the requirements.
The values of growth attributes such as plant height (176.67 cm), number of functional
leaves plant-1 (9.33), dry matter plant-1 (452.13 g) and leaf area plant-1(87.33 dm2) were
significantly highest in 100 % RDN through poultry manure, followed by the treatments,
application of 50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure and
application of 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost but were at par
with each other.
 XVIII

Similarly, the yield attributing characters viz., number of baby cobs plant-1, length (with
husk and without husk), weight (with husk and without husk), girth (with husk and without
husk), cob yield and green fodder yield of baby corn were maximum with application of 100 %
RDN through poultry manure.The corresponding values were 4.17, 32.33 cm, 11.00 cm, 76.33g,
15.20 g, 9.00 cm 4.00cm, 135.23q ha-1 and 355.99q ha-1, respectively. The next best treatments
were application of application of 50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through
poultry manure and application of 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost. Statistically higher values of yield attributes, baby cob yield and green fodder
yield were obtained from said treatment due to the more availability of nutrients by poultry
manure throughout the growing season. However, minimum values of yield attributes and yield
were registered with absolute control.
There were no significant differences observed for quality parameters i.e. protein, total
sugar and carbohydrate content. However, it varied numerically amongst the treatments.
Application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure recorded higher values for all this quality
parameters and the corresponding values are as protein 11.42 %, total sugar 35 mg g-1,
carbohydrate 59.33 mg g-1, respectively. The lowest values were recorded by absolute control
and the corresponding values are 9.21 %, 31 mg g-1, 52 mg g-1, respectively.
The application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure recorded significantly higher
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by crop than rest of the treatments. The
corresponding values were 97.94 kg ha-1 N, 34.09 kg ha-1 P and 104.26 kg ha-1 K, respectively.
The second best treatment was application of 50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN
through poultry manure. However, the lowest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by
crop was noticed in absolute control.The residual fertility was increased due to application of
organic manures. The pH balance and organic carbon ( %) was maintained with the application
of organic manures. The available residual N (207.50 kg ha-1), P (27 kg ha-1)and K(335 kg ha-1)
were recorded significantly maximum in application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure,it
was followed by application of 50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry
manure.Whereas, significantly lower values of available N (156 N kg ha-1), P (14.47 P kg ha-1)
and K (281 K kg ha-1) were recorded in absolute control.
Highest number of bacterial (68.33CFU x 103 g-1 of soil), fungal (11.67CFU x 103 g-1 of
soil) and actinomyecetes(10.67 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) colonies were found in application of 100
% RDN throughFYM. Other treatments which recorded highest number of microbial colonies
were in application of 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost, 50 %
RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure, 100 % RDN through
vermicompost and 100 % RDN through poultry manure.The lowest number of bacterial (41.33
CFU x 103 g-1 of soil), fungal (5.33 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) and actinomyecetes (4.67 CFU x 103
g-1 of soil) colonies were noted in absolute control.
The mean canopy temperature of baby corn was recorded at different growth
stages i.e. at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest were 23.85, 23.55, 23.86, 22.70 and 29.03 °C,
respectively.
The cumulative growing degree days at critical growth stages of baby corn viz., seedling,
vegetative growth stage, peak vegetative growth stage, tasseling and silking were 346,895.66,
1166.06, 1521.33 and 1700.46 ºC days, respectively.
Among the different treatmentsmaximum gross (3, 41,667₹ ha-1) and net monetary
returns (2, 55,397₹ ha-1) were obtained from application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure.
The minimum values of gross and net monetary returns were noticed in absolute control.The
 XIX

maximum benefit cost ratio (3.96) was recorded withapplication of 100 % RDN through poultry
manure, whereas, minimum B:C ratio (1.50) was registered in absolute control.
Thus, from the economic point of view with higher productivity of baby corn on clay
loam soils, under Pune conditions, the most suitable organic source of nitrogen is poultry manure
and it would be advisable to apply poultry manure as organic source of nitrogen for baby corn.

Pages 1 to 73
 1

1. INTRODUCTION
Rank of India in terms of worlds Organic Agricultural land was fifteen. The total area
under Organic Certification is 5.7 m. ha, This includes 26 % cultivable area with 1.49 m. ha and
rest of 74 % in forest.
Corn (Zea mays L.) ‘Queen of cereals’ is a versatile crop and is widely used as food, feed
and fodder. Baby corn is an unfertilized immature young cob of corn harvested just before or
after two to three days of silk emergence. Improved production technology for baby corn can
help to fetch a higher economic return (4-5 times) and a quality product as compared to grain
corn. Also, early harvest of corn for baby corn gives nutritious green fodder for livestock. Thus,
there is an immense scope of growing corn as baby corn to improve socio-economic status of
poor farmers, and this has vast potential to generate employment opportunities in the rural areas
as a small-scale enterprise (Sharma and Banik, 2014).
Corn occupies an important place in food processing industry of India. The economic
potential and marketing aspects of canning baby corn as a small scale food processing venture
can be explored. Canning and pickling industries of baby corn offer huge export potential.
Demand for baby corn as a health food is increasing in class hotels and middle class consumers.
After the harvest of babies the economic potential is further enhanced since it supplies green,
soft, succulent, nutritious, palatable fodder with higher digestibility.
The total area under maize in world during 2016-17 was 185.97 million hectares with an
annual production of 1075.23 million metric tonnes and productivity was 5.78 metric tonnes
ha-1 (Anon., 2018).Average of 2010-11 to 2014-15 area, production and productivity under maize
in India is 8.85 million hectares, 22.84 million tonnes, and 2580 kg ha-1, respectively (Anon.,
2016). Major maize producing states are Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra and
Rajasthan. Corn is grown in both kharif and rabi seasons, but kharif season accounts for 72 % of
the total production in India (Anon., 2018).
India’s rank in terms of World’s Organic Agricultural land was 15 as per 2013 data. The
total area under organic certification is 5.71 million hectare during (2015-16). This includes 26
% cultivable area with 1.49 million hectare and rest 74 % (4.22 million hectare) forest and wild
area for collection of minor forest produces (Anon., 2015).
Green Revolution technologies are known to have enhanced agricultural production and
productivity. The technologies greatly helped to address the food security of India, farmers using
these technologies have to depend upon the purchased inputs. The small farmers, who by cash
flow definition are short of cash, are therefore found to lag behind large farmers in the adoption
of technologies. The manufactures of fertilizers and pesticides, the two major inputs of green
revolution technologies, need fossil fuels or expensive energy, and are associated with serious
environmental and health problems (Vinay kumar and Neeraj, 2015). Modern agricultural
 2

farming practices, along with irrational use of chemical inputs over the past four decades have
resulted in not only loss of natural habitat balance and soil health but have also caused many
hazards like soil erosion, decreased groundwater level, soil salinization, pollution due to
fertilizers and pesticides, genetic erosion, ill effects on environment, reduced food quality and
increased the cost of cultivation rendering the farmer poorer year by year (Mojeremane et
al.,2015).
Organic farming is an approach to produce food products that is intended to overcome the
negative impacts of the Green Revolution on soil, air, water, landscape, and humans worldwide.
A central element of the organic farming approach is the efficient use of on-farm and local
resources such as farmyard manure, indirect crop protection and local seeds. It pursues a course
of promoting the powers of self-regulation and resistance which plants and animals possess
naturally (Yuda et al.,2016).
Organic farming is not based exclusively on short term economics, but also considers
ecological concepts. It utilizes appropriate technology and appropriate traditional farming
methods. This form of farming can also be called sustainable form of farming or sustainable
agriculture. The principles of this method are organize the production of crops and livestock and
the management of farm resources so that they harmonize rather than conflict with natural
system use and develop appropriate technologies based upon an understanding of biological
systems achieve and maintain soil fertility for optimum production by relying primarily on
renewable resources use diversification to pursue optimum production use for optimum
nutritional value of staple food use decentralized structures for processing, distributing and
marketing of products strive for equitable relationship for those who work and live on the land
and maintain and preserve wildlife and their habitats (Joshi et al.,1992,Manivannan et al.,2015).
The chemical fertilizer poses health hazards and reduces microbial population in soil
besides being quite expensive and thereby making the cost of production high. Under such
circumstances, bio-fertilizers and organic manure may play a major role. The bio-fertilizers and
organic manure are able to increase the supply and availability of nutrients and thereby reduce
the fertilizer requirements which ultimately results in reduction of cost of production beside good
quality. Application of bio-fertilizer showed increase in yield and quality by various researchers
(Ranjan et al., 2013).
Nitrogen is the most important element in producing quality and quantity of crops,
especially corn vital plant plays an important role. On the other hand economic and
environmental problems caused by the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers nitrogen and
attention to the innate potentials very interesting and varied soil organisms (Zaremanesh et al.,
2016).
 3

FYM supplies all major nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S,) necessary for plant growth, as
well as micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn). Hence, it acts as a mixed fertilizer. FYM improves
soil physical, chemical and biological properties. Improvement in the soil structure due to FYM
application leads to a better environment for root development. FYM also improves soil water
holding capacity (Tadesse et al., 2013).
Vermicompost technology for composting of organic wastes is remarkably effective for
reduction in the processing time of decomposition and produce good quality compost in terms of
nutrients. It serves as an important component of integrated plant nutrient supply system for
balanced fertilization along with maintaining health to sustain the productivity of soils
(Chaudhary et al., 2004). Vermiwash is an indispensable part of vermicompost which is watery
extract of earthworms that contains N, P, K, Ca and hormones such as auxin, cytokinine and
some other secretions and its spray found to play an important role in the plant growth and
development (Keerthi et al.,2013).
Poultry manure is an excellent organic fertilizer, as it contains high nitrogen, phosphorus,
potassium and other essential nutrients. In contrast to chemical fertilizer, it adds organic matter
to soil which improves soil structures, nutrient retention, aeration, soil moisture holding capacity
and water infiltration (Deksissa et al., 2008). It was also indicated that poultry manure more
readily supplies P to plants than other organic manure sources (Garg and Bahla, 2008).
Neem cake organic manure protects plant roots from nematodes, soil grubs and white
ants probably due to due to its residual limonoid content. It also acts as natural fertilizer with
pesticidal property. Neem cake also reduces alkalinity in soil, as it produces organic acids on
decomposition. Neem cake improves the organic matter content of soil, helping improve soil
texture, water holding capacity, and soil aeration for better root development.
Castor seed cake enhances the fertility of the soil. Like other cake it also contains
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and also has traces of nutrients like manganese, zinc and
copper thus making a balanced fertilizer. Cotton seed cake as a granular fertilizer it is an
excellent source of organic plant nutrients. When incorporated into soil it decomposes slowly
releasing its rich supply of N, P, K and trace elements. It has high organic matter content which
helps to improve soil texture and build humus, it is good for loosening tight heavy soils and help
light sandy soils. It holds moisture and nutrients well, thus promoting long lasting plant growth.
With these consideration in view, the present investigation entitled “Effect of organic
sources of nitrogen on growth, yield and quality of baby corn” is planned with following
objectives.
1. To study the effect of organic sources of nitrogen on growth, yield and quality of
organic baby corn.
2. To find out the suitable organic source of nitrogen for organic baby corn.
3. To work out the economics.
 4

2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE
2 Crop studies

2.1 Effect of different organic manurial combinations on growth and yield of maize

Singh and Agarwal (2001) revealed that the plant height, dry-matter accumulation,
effective tillers, grains spike-1, grain, straw and biological yields increased in wheat significantly
with the graded levels of FYM up to 20 t ha-1, but the response decreased with the increase of
FYM from 20 to 30 t ha-1.
Vadivel et al. (2001) results revealed that application of enriched FYM @ 750 kg ha-1
significantly increased the growth and yield attributes, N uptake and grain yield of maize.
Nanjappa et al. (2001) concluded that the combined application of 50 % or 75 %
recommended dose of fertilizer with 12 tonnes ha-1 FYM or 2.7 tonnes ha-1 vermicompost caused
higher productivity of maize compared with the application of either only inorganic fertilizer or
organic sources.
Manjunath et al. (2006) observed that application of poultry manure @ 1 t ha-1 recorded
significantly higher seed yield over no organic manure and further increase in poultry manure did
not influence the seed yield of maize.
Saha and Mondal (2006) studied the combined application of organic sources of nutrients
and recommended NPK fertilizer .They concluded that the application of organics along with
chemical fertilizer improved the yield attributes of corn over the control.
Boateng et al. (2006) observed that poultry manure treatments produced higher values for
height, leaf area index and biomass of maize. The 4 t ha-1pm rate produced maize grain yield of
2.07 t ha-1 which was statistically not different from that of the chemical fertilizer rate (2.29 t
ha-1) and 6 t PM ha-1 (2.60 t ha-1).Poultry manure application registered over 53 % increases of N
levels in the soil, from 0.09 % to 0.14 %. Exchangeable cations increased with manure
application.
Saha et al. (2007) reported that the effects of three organic manures on yield attributes,
cob and fodder yield of baby corn. Farmyard manure, vermicompost and poultry manure were
applied each at two different rates. Among the organic manures, farmyard manure at 15 Mg ha-1
gave the highest baby corn yield.
Panwar (2008) showed that the growth, yield attributes of maize were best in substitution
of 50 % of the recommended dose of NPK through farmyard manure while yield was slightly
more with 25 % substitution but was comparable with 50 % substitution through farmyard
manure.
Ashoka et al. (2008) studied the effect of micronutrient with or without organic manures
on yied of Baby corn chickpea sequence during 2005-06.The results revealed that application of
RDF (150:75:40 kg N,P2O5 , K2O ha-1) + 25 kg zinc sulphate + 10 kg ferrous sulphate +35 kg
 5

vermicompost recorded significantly higher yield and yield component viz., earlength (7.4 cm ),
ear girth(4.99 cm), ear weight (17.40 g), yield (64.43 q ha-1) and green fodder yield (232.33 q
ha-1) of baby corn.
Udom and Bello (2009) noted that poultry litter significantly increased the cob length,
cob weight, shelling percentage and grain yield of maize during all the years. Application of 2t
ha-1 of poultry litter significantly increased the maize grain yield and further increase of poultry
litter beyond (2t/ha) did not significantly increase the grain yield.
Farhad et al. (2009) recorded that parameters including plant height, number of rows per
cob, number of grains per row, 1000 grain weight, grain yield, biological yield and harvest index
of maize were significantly superior with application of poultry manure. Maximum values for all
these parameters were recorded with the application of 12 t ha-1 PM.
Shah et al. (2010) showed that integrated application of organic N sources (farmyard
manure, poultry manure and filter cake) and mineral N source (urea) resulted an upward trend in
the yield of maize crop. Maximum biomass, (9554 kg ha-1) and stover yield (8136 kg ha-1) of
maize were obtained from those treatments where 100 % (FYM) was used. Maximum grain yield
(1838 kg ha-1) was recorded from treatment where 25 % farmyard manures (FYM) and 75 %
mineral nitrogen source (urea) were used.
Leela rani et al. (2011) revealed that recommended dose of N ( RDN) through fertilizer
application (90 kg N ha-1) recorded significantly higher number of cobs plant-1, cobs ha-1, baby
corn green ear yield, stover yield over combined application of 75 % N through fertilizer + 25 %
N through neem cake, 50 % of N through fertilizer + 50 % of N through neem cake.
Ramasamy et al. (2011) studied that maize plants (Zea mays L.) grown on
vermicompost-enriched soil for 90 days. The plants were harvested at the end of 90 days and the
kernels were collected. The maximum kernel number of 598.55 corn-1 and the highest length of
1.71cm kernel-1 were noticed in the plants cultivated on 75 % vermicompost concentration
whereas the maximum kernel breadth of 1.40 cm kernel-1, circumference of 3.07cm kernel-1,
weight of 0.41 gm kernel-1 and total weight of all kernels (232.43 gm corn-1) were noticed in the
plants grown on 50 % vermicompost concentration.
Meena et al. (2010) revealed that higher fodder yield with combined application of
organic and inorganic sources of nutrients in maize could be ascribed to efficient utilization of
nutrients from combined sources compared to the single source. The bio-sources ( FYM and
Biocompost) were applied in different combination with chemical fertilizers for substitution of
50 % and 25 % recommended dose of N to baby corn.
Shilpashree et al. (2012) found that addition of nutrients through NPK, FYM and
vermicompost and release of nutrients from the native sources in soil due to high biological
activity in soil particularly under the treatment of 100 % N + 7.5 t ha-1 FYM resulted in high dry
 6

matter production as indicated by plant height, number of leaves per plant, high leaf area and leaf
area index which ultimately increased the Stover yield of maize in the above treatments.
Gudugi et al. (2012) concluded that poultry manure is valuable fertilizer whose
application needs to be encouraged for both sustainable soil fertility maintenance and optimum
plant growth of sweet corn.
Agba et al. (2012) showed that PM application significantly improved maize vegetative
growth, biomass, yield components and grain yield. The use of 20 t ha-1 Poultry manure gave the
highest maize plant height, stem diameter and number of leaves per plant; grain yields of 2.78
and 2.89 t ha-1 was obtained with the application of 18 tha-1 Poultry manure. Their results
indicated that while high rates of PM linearly improved growth attributes up to the highest rate of
Poultry manure treatment (20 t ha-1).
Kumar et al. (2012b) reported that the grain yield was at par with 100 % recommended
NPK in both crops and the treatment where nitrogen was substituted through FYM to the tune of
50 % in pearl millet followed by 100 % recommended NPK in wheat equivalent yield as well as
system productivity.
Kumar et al. (2012a) revealed that plant height, leaf area, dry matter accumulation,
CGR, LAI and LAD of wheat were significantly higher with poultry manure applied @ 225 kg N
ha-1 over lower levels of all other organic sources of nutrition. Similarly increase in dose of
organic manure from 75 to 150 and 225 kg N ha-1 by any sources increased the grain yield
significantly during both the year.
Bhatia et al. (2012b) observed that among INM recommended dose of fertilizers (150 kg
N+60 Kg P2O5+30 kg K2O ha-1) + vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 gave highest grain (4605 and 4960
kg ha-1) and straw yield (7086 and 7578 kg ha-1) of wheat during both the seasons of experiment.
Gupta et al. (2012) showed that in the sequential cropping growth parameters, grain yield
and dry matter production of maize were found significantly superior when FYM @5t ha-1 was
applied in pure maize crop. The grain yield and dry matter production of wheat was significantly
superior in treatment where FYM @ 5t ha-1 was applied in previous maize crop in main plots.
Neupane and Mahajan (2013) clearly revealed that 75 % N through urea + 25 % N
through FYM with spacing of 40 cm × 15 cm were found superior over all other treatment
combinations in relation to growth, yield attribute and yield ( cob yield 27.30 q ha-1 and forage
yield 144.38 q ha-1) for commercial cultivation of baby corn under agro- climatic conditions of
Varanasi.
Javeed et al. (2013) concluded that increasing order of poultry manure dose treatments
produced the good and healthy seeds over the control treatment. A positive correlation between
grain yield, physical properties of maize grain and grains weight per cob was recorded.
 7

Keerthi et al. (2013) observed an application of 180-75-60 kg N P K ha-1+ vermiwash 20,

35 and 50 DAS recorded the highest growth parameters, yield attributes and cob yield of sweet
corn which was however, found parity with 180-75-60 kg N P K ha-1+ vermicompost.
More et al. (2013) noted the highest grain yield (5261 kg ha-1), stover yield (7405 kg ha-1)
and days required to 50 % tasseling and silking for maize were remarkably reduced were
obtained with the 50 % nitrogen through chemical fertilizer + 25 % through biocompost + 25 %
through vermicompost The use of vermiwash imparted a rise of 11.21 % grain and 10.28 %
stover yield over control.
Ranjan et al. (2013) found that the biofertilizers significantly increased growth, yield and
yield contributing characters of baby corn. The best treatment identified was Vermicompost (1.92
kg-1bed )+ Biospirillum (10ml kg-1 of seed ) + Biophos (10ml kg-1 of seed) + Biopotash (10 ml
kg-1 of seed ) where yield of baby corn was recorded 18.57q ha-1.
Lone et al. (2013) observed that an application of farm yard manure at 6 t ha-1 in
combination with 150 % recommended dose of fertilizer (225 N: 90 P2O5:60 K2O kg ha-1) to
baby corn recorded maximum baby cob yield (without husk ) of 20.60 q ha-1associated with
maximum cob plot-1 (3.26).Application of 150 % of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF)
without FYM noticed increased cob length (10.90 cm), whereas, 125 % of RDF resulted in
maximum cob girth without husk (18.30 mm). Similar trend of enhanced green fodder yield
(26.39 t ha-1) was observed with application of 6 t ha-1+150 % of (RDF).
Amos et al. (2013) observed that the performance of poultry manure was significantly
better than the control at all application levels. Application of 15t ha-1 chicken manure increased
plant height by 81 %, leaf area by 60 %, fresh husked cob weight by 73 %, crop growth rate by
67 % and maize kernel yield by 55 % compared with the control.
Sharma and Banik (2014) revealed that the vermicompost applied plots at 10 Mg ha-1
recorded considerably higher baby cob (0.717 Mg ha-1) and green fodder (17.58 Mg ha-1) yield.
Auwal (2014) stated that maximum productivity of baby corn can be achieved or
improved through the application of chemical fertilizer, however, substitution of some portion of
chemical fertilizers along with either organic manure or biofertilizer will maintain and sustains
soil health as well as improving economic stability of farmers.
Shinde et al.(2014) found that application of 100 % RDF + 10 t FYM ha-1 was at par with
application of 100 % RDF + 5 t FYM ha-1 and both of them recorded significantly higher grain
yield of maize than other integrated nutrient management practices.
Srinivasan et al. (2014) observed that in baby corn, maximum yield (6.12t ha-1) was
recorded with recommended dose of fertilizers, followed by the combined use of poultry manure
and neem cake (5.80t ha-1). Among various treatments, residual effect and combined application
 8

of poultry manure and neem cake to a preceding cabbage crop, recorded maximum yield in baby
corn (4.71t ha-1) over other treatments.
Barod and Dhar (2015) noted the highest husked and dehusked baby cob yields (4.43 t
ha-1 and 2.15 t ha-1,respectively) and green fodder yield with application of 120 kg ha-1 N through
vermicompost and the lowest (3.30 and 1.80t ha-1, respectively) was recorded with the
application of N through fertilizer.
Keerthirani (2015) concluded that the growth attributes like plant height, leaf area and
dry matter accumulation , yield components viz., number of cobs per plant, length and girth of
cob, fresh and dry weight of cob and volume of cob (with and without husk, respectively), baby
corn and stover yield were significantly higher with the application of poultry manure or
vermicompost at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + EBDLM at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15
and 45 DAS + vermiwash spray at 30 DAS
Kalra and Sharma (2015) observed that dry matter yield, plant height, number of
functional leaves, leaf area index, leaf stem ratio and moisture content recorded in maize at F25
and F12.5 were significantly higher than the control, but similar with one another. Nitrogen at 120
kg ha-1 resulted higher green fodder yield over lower N levels.
Liyue Guo et al. (2015) revealed that vermicomposting increased aboveground biomass
by 7.7 % and maize grain yield by 18.3 %.
Hashim et. al. (2015) found that 50 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF-120 kg N,
60 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O ha-1) + 50 % recommended dose of nitrogen ( RDN-120 kg N ha-1)
through crop residue mixed farmyard manure resulted in significantly higher maize grain yield
(4.24 t ha-1) over the control (2.23 t ha-1) during first year, but during the second year (5.25 t ha-1)
it was significantly higher than the control (3.07 t ha-1) and 50 % RDF + 25 % RDN +
biofertilizer (4.83 t ha-1).
Simon and. Balabbo (2015) revealed that the use of the different inorganic fertilizer and
vermicompost combinations showed positive and significant effect on the growth and yield
performance of sweet corn.
Nasab et al. (2015) showed that the use of vermicompost in maize appears helpful in
improving physical and chemical structure of the growth media are attributed to the increase in
plant growth. Analysis of variance showed that the effect of vermicompost and variety on all
characteristics was significant.
Komakech et al. (2015) found no significant differences in maize growth and yield when
the soil was treated with vermicompost, digestate or stored cattle manure. However, treatments
with any of these products performed significantly better than the unfertilised control, showing
how valuable organic fertilizers are in improving crop yield.
 9

Said et al. (2016) studied that maximum plant height (92.20 cm) and leaf area (378.05
cm2) were recorded in treatment comprising 75 % NPK + 2.25 t ha-1 vermicompost along with
bio-fertilizers over the rest of the treatments. The highest 1000-grain weight (226.67 g) and grain
yield (1511.1 kg ha-1) of maize were confirmed for Diammonium Phosphate used as chemical
fertilizer (recommended dose used 150 kg N and 50 kg P ha-1)
Hekmat and Abraham (2016) concluded that application of poultry manure alone or
either in combination with FYM and goat manure was recommended for higher productivity of
baby corn than FYM. Whereas, substitution of poultry manure alone or either in combination
with goat manure and FYM had significant influence on all yield parameters and also yield of
cob and fodder of baby corn.
Ravichandran et al. (2016) reported that among the integrated nitrogen management
practices, application of 100 % recommended dose of fertilizer N and 12.5 t of FYM enhanced
all the growth characters of baby corn at 60 DAS of observation during both the seasons. Higher
husked baby corn and fodder yield were produced in higher plant population combined with 100
% RDN and 12.5 t ha-1 FYM during both kharif and rabi season.
Jinjala et al.(2016) experimented using all possible combinations of five levels of
nitrogen (chemical and vermicompost fertilizer) with and without bio-fertilizer (Azotobacter and
PSB) in baby corn.These were significantly higher with application of 100 % RDN from
chemical fertilizer with bio-fertilizer over 100 % RDN from vermicompost. Significantly the
higher growth and yield attributes, yield and fodder yield were recorded with the application of
100 % RDF from chemical fertilizer with bio-fertilizer.
Madane et al. (2016) observed that application of 100 % RDF (120:60:40 kg NPK ha-1)
through inorganic fertilizers recorded significantly the highest growth characteristics viz, plant
height, number of functional leaves plant-1, leaf area plant-1, dry matter production plant-1, grain
and stover yields and also higher uptake of maize as compared to rest of the nutrient
management treatments. However, 75 % RDF + 10 t FYM ha-1 was on par with 100 % RDF in
respect of growth and yield of maize. This indicate application of 75 % RDF + 10 t FYM ha-1 are
equally effective with 100 % RDF for getting maximum growth and yield of hybrid maize (cv.
Rajarshi KMH-22168).
Kharutso et al. (2016) reported that the plant height, number of green leaves plant-1, stem
thickness (cm), and leaf area index were recorded highest with application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1
followed by FYM @ 10 t ha-¹ + Azospirillum @ 20 g kg-1 seed. FYM @ 10 t ha-1 has also
produced highest yield attributing characters like cobs weight (120.51 g), number of grain rows
(34.84), length of cob (15.29 cm), grain weight (81.66 g), grain yield(1.82 t ha-1) straw yield
(3.01) of maize.
 10

Singh et al. (2016a) found that significant increase in yield and quality contributing
characters of baby corn(Number of days taken to baby corn formation, number of cobs per plant,
baby corn length, baby corn girth, green cob weight, baby corn weight, baby corn yield, green
fodder yield) with INM over control.
Shiyam et al. (2017) concluded that the growth and grain yield of maize were improved
by poultry manure application and the best crop performance was obtained in plots incorporated
with the nutrient at 2.5 t ha-1 which could be adjudged to be optimum for sustainable productivity
of maize in the experimental area.
Silva et al. (2017) concluded that vermicompost application increased total number and
weight of unhusked and husked marketable green ears as well as grain yield of maize.
Thangasamy et al. (2017) showed that balanced application of plant nutrients through
mineral fertilizers and FYM increased oxidizable SOC by 84 per cent and improved soil
hydraulic properties, yield of both maize and wheat compared to control.
Muhammad et al. (2017) showed that the treatment poultry manure gave maximum leaf
area whereas minimum leaf area was obtained in control. Maximum plant height (cm), number
of grains cob-1, 1000-grain weight (g), biological yield (kg ha-1), and grain yield (kg ha-1) of
maize was obtained in compost applied treatment followed by poultry manure.
Khan et al. (2017) observed a linear increase in each yield and yield traits with each
increment in FYM at both levels of urea. Plants were taller in plots received FYM as well as urea
compared to sole FYM or control. Number of cobs plant-1, grains cob-1 and thousand grain
weights were linearly increased with the increase in levels of FYM at both levels of urea in
maize. Plant stalk and grain yield was higher at maximum levels of both FYM and urea.
Sinha (2017) showed that combined effect of sowing of the first schedule of baby corn
and horse gram and application of 125 % RDF + 5 t FYM resulted in significantly higher baby
corn-equivalent yield in terms of system productivity (2.8 t ha-1). Application of 125 % RDF + 5
t FYM significantly increased the baby cob, baby corn, green fodder, horse gram yield over 100
% RDF and125 % RDF, but was at par with that obtained with 100 % RDF + 5 t FYM.
Wailare and Kesarwani (2017) concluded that the growth parameters of maize (plant
height and leaf area) were found to be highest under INM of poultry manure (PM), farm yard
manure (FYM) and recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) which are statistically on par but
comparatively higher than 100 % RDF. The yield parameters viz., number of grains per cob, cobs
weight plant-1, test weight and stover yield were significantly higher under INM compared to 100
% RDF.
Kumar and Balusamy (2017) observed plant height, productive tillers -1m2, panicle length
and filled grains panicle-1 of rice which were varied significantly to the application of farm yard
manure, recycled poultry droppings as pond silt (desi poultry, duck and turkey dropping) and
 11

vermicompost in combination with different levels of recommended dose of fertilizer. Most of

the growth and yield contributing characters influenced positively in treatment having organic
manures over recommended dose of fertilizer.
Shah and Wani (2017) showed that the application of 100 % RDF(NPK)+vermicompost
@ 3 tonnes per hectare recorded maximum kernels per cob, number of cobs per metre square,
thousand grain weight, cob length and grain yield per hectare (3.26 quintals) of maize.
Zaremanesh et al. (2017) noted that application of different treatments has significant
impact on corn yield, as 9 tons per hectare with a yield of 7.11 tonnes per hectare bio-fertilizer
produced the highest grain yield with mean of 11/ 500 t ha-1.
Damiyal et al. (2017) reported that the highest seed yield (5.65t ha-1) of hybrid maize was
obtained when 5t ha-1 cattle manure was used, which was statistically similar to 400kg ha-1
inorganic fertilizer used (5.60 t ha-1).
Yogananda et al. (2017) indicated that, application of 100 % N equivalent compost FYM
10 t ha-1, beejamrutha 500 liter ha-1 recorded significantly higher grain yield (6.13 t ha-1), stover
yield (7.84 t ha-1), cob length (15.10 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (12.77) and plant height
(226.0 cm) of maize, which was closely followed by application of 100 % N equivalent compost
500 litres ha-1 and 125 % N equivalent compost 500 litres ha-1.
2.2 Effect of different organic manurial combinations on quality of maize

Ashalatha (2009) observed that among the manurial practices, the recommended dose of
fertilizers resulted in the highest quality characters viz., protein, sugar, starch and carbohydrate
except iron and zinc in baby corn. It was followed by poultry manure and the green leaf manure
and the lowest values were recorded with vermicompost.
Bhatia et al. (2012) observed that the highest protein yield in grain and straw of wheat
was recorded under recommended dose of fertilizers+ vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 resulting in 39
and 52 % increase in protein yield in grain and 38 and 50 % increase in protein yield in straw
during both season of experiment.
Farhad et al. (2013) showed that the grain protein contents in maize were significantly
influenced with the application of recommended rate of NPK and different rate of CPM
(compost poultry manure) under different irrigation levels.
Nagavani and Subbian (2014) suggested that application of 50 per cent recommended
dose of fertilizer through poultry manure in combination with 50 per cent RDF through inorganic
fertilizer recorded the highest quality parameters of maize viz.,crude protein, starch, reducing
sugars, total sugars and amino acid content whereas, phenol content was improved with 100 per
cent vermicompost application.
 12

Shinde et al. (2014) revealed the highest values of protein percent, protein yield and
protein production efficiency in maize were recorded with application of 100 % RDF + 10 t
FYM ha-1.
Keerthirani (2015) concluded that quality parameters of baby corn viz., crude protein,
crude fibre, total soluble solids and moisture per cent were highest with poultry manure or
vermicompost at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + EBDLM at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15
and 45 DAS + vermiwash spray at 30 DAS.
Mariappan et al. (2016) reported that poultry manure 5 t ha-1 recorded higher crude
protein content (13.8 %) in maize followed by sericulture waste 5 t ha-1 and both were
comparable. The least crude protein content of 10.9 per cent was recorded under control.
Jinjala et al. (2016) reported that different integrated nutrient management treatments did
not exert any significant influence on crude protein content of baby corn. However, numerically
crude protein and significantly vitamin-C and total sugar were recorded higher in treatment 100
% RDN from vermicompost While the lowest values of quality parameters were observed under
treatment 100 % RDN from chemical fertilizer with bio-fertilizer.
2.3 Effect of different organic manurial combinations on soil and its properties

Saha and Mondal (2006) revealed that the judicious application of organic manure along
with inorganic fertilizer improved fertility status of the soil (N, P,K and organic C).
Singh et al. (2010) found that available N, P and K in the soil after baby corn harvest
were highest with 180 + 38.7 + 74.7 kg N+P+K ha-1 and 50 % N supplied through FYM.
Gupta et al. (2012) showed that NPK balance improved in all the intercropping
treatments and FYM applied plots; however, the highest buildup of soil N (213.7 kg ha-1), P
(18.5 kg ha-1) and K (122.3 kg ha-1) was recorded in treatment pure maize+FYM @ 5 t ha-1.
Organic carbon increased by 9.6 % in FYM applied plots and it further decreased by 3.2 % in
pure maize-wheat rotation plots.
Tadesse et al. (2013) showed that application of 15 t ha-1 significantly increased soil
organic matter and available water holding capacity but decreased the soil bulk density, creating
a good soil condition for enhanced growth of the rice crop.
Sharma and Banik (2014) revealed that vermicompost application built-up soil nutrient
and enhanced cation exchange capacity (12.19 C mol+ kg -1), microbial [ basal soil respiration,
microbial biomass carbon, microbial, and metabolic quotient ] and enzyme activities (urease and
acid phosphatase ).
Barod and Dhar (2015) studied that the residual fertility in terms of available N, P and K
(186.5,18.0 and 208.2 kg ha-1) in the soil after crop harvest was significantly superior when 120
kg N ha-1 was applied through FYM in comparison with recommended dose of N applied
through fertilizer and it was at par with leaf compost and vermicompost.
 13

Keerthirani (2015) observed that the total bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes population
was significantly higher with the application of poultry manure or vermicompost at 75 kg N eq.
ha-1 + EBDLM at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15 and 45 DAS + vermiwash
spray at 30 DAS.
Kumar et al. (2016c) noted that the highest NPK status in the soil after the harvest of crop
was recorded in the treatment 100 % N through FYM in maize.
Karforma et al. (2016) suggested that integration of 50 % N (30 kg N ha-1) through
organic manures (FYM/mustard cake) and 50 % RDF (30 kg N, 6.7 kg P and 12.5 kg K ha-1)
through chemical fertilizers and biofertilizer (Azotobacter) was recommended for improving
crop productivity, soil fertility, nutrient balance and maximizing economic return from this
cropping system in Terai region of Indian sub-tropics.
Yogananda et al. (2017) found that the soil chemical properties, viz., soil pH, organic
carbon content and electric conductivity, were not influenced by application of the organic
manures in maize. However, there was an increasing trend in the soil chemical properties
compared to initial soil data. However, application of 100 % N equivalent compost FYM 10 t ha-
1
recorded significantly higher available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the soil
compared to the other treatments in maize.
Thangasamy et al. (2017) concluded that the NPK + FYM application significantly
increased oxidizable SOC (soil organic carbon), MWD (mean weight diameter) and decreased
BD (bulk density) compared to control plots and the initial values. Balanced application of plant
nutrients through mineral fertilizers and FYM increased oxidizable SOC by 84 per cent and
improved soil hydraulic properties, uptake and yield of both maize and wheat compared to
control. Integrated use of NPK along with FYM was the best option for sustaining soil physical
condition, enhancing nutrient uptake and ultimately crop productivity.
Wailare and Kesarwani (2017) revealed that post harvest soil physico-chemical properties
(organic carbon and available nitrogen) were significantly improved under application of 5t PM
+ 50 % RDF, whereas soil available phosphorus was recorded maximum under application of 5t
PM + 100 % RDF in maize compared to control and rest of the treatments combination.
Shah and Wani (2017) reported that vermicompost application @ 5.5 tonnes per hectare
+ farm yard Manure (FYM) @ 5.5 tonnes ha-1 to maize crop recorded the soil availability of N, P
and K of 394.8,21.37 and 169.8 kg ha-1 respectively statistically highly significant than the
check.
2.4 Effect of different organic manurial combinations on nutrient uptake by crop

Thavaprakaash and velayudham (2007) at Eastern Block farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University, Coimbatore results revealed that crop geometry and INM treatments significantly
 14

influenced on nutrient uptake of baby corn. All the INM practices showed higher NPK uptake
than 100 % NPK.
Dadarwal (2008) concluded that the combined use of 75 % NPK + 2.25 t VC ha-1 + BF
proved significantly effective in increasing nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium concentrations in
cobs and fodder of baby corn over rest of the treatments and was at par with 75 % NPK + 2.25 t
VC ha-1 in case of nitrogen concentration in cobs and fodder and potassium concentration in
cobs. However, the significantly highest potassium concentration in fodder was recorded under
75 % NPK + 2.25 t VC ha-1 and was at par with 75 % NPK + 2.25 t VC ha-1 + BF.
Talathi et al. (2009) studied that that substitution of 25 to 50 % N either through
glyricidia or FYM registered significantly maximum NPK uptake by rice.
Makinde and Ayoola (2010) found that maize nutrient uptake was better with sole
application of inorganic fertilizer. However, a combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizers
gave a higher N and K values.
Kumar et al. (2012a) reviewed that the best source among the all organic sources is
poultry manure because of higher concentration of N that is readily available to crop. The better
response of poultry manure over other sources may be because of higher approximately 40 % of
total N in poultry manure in available form reported by Shepherd and Withers (1999).
Duhan (2012) showed that there was no significant effect of P on N uptake by rice grain
and straw. The total N and P uptake by rice crop was significantly more with green manure than
FYM.
Prathyusha et al. (2014) observed that the maximum nutrient uptake (N, P & K) was also
registered at 120 kg ha-1, which was significantly higher than applied 60 and 90 kg N ha-1. P & K
uptake was maximum in sweet corn but statistically on par with baby corn regarding P uptake
and with popcorn regarding K uptake.
Keerthirani (2015) concluded that the uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by
baby corn was significantly higher with the application of poultry manure or vermicompost at 75
kg N eq. ha-1 + EBDLM at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15 and 45 DAS +
vermiwash spray at 30 DAS.
Rasool et al. (2016) concluded that nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content and
uptake in sweet corn showed significant and consistent improvement with application of 75 %
(NPK) + FYM (4.5 t ha-1) + biofertilizer (Azotobacter + PSB), however, significantly lowest
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content and uptake were obtained under unfertilized control
during experimentation years.
Shah and Wani (2017) observed that the highest nutrient uptake 95.1, 20.8 and 84.1 kg of
NPK, respectively was observed with the application of 100 % NPK+ 3 tonnes vermicompost
ha-1 in maize.
 15

2.5 Economics
Manjunath et al. (2006) concluded that the application of poultry manure @ 1t ha-1 or 2 t
ha-1 in maize recorded significantly higher net returns of 17578 ₹ ha-1 and 18172 ₹ ha-1,
respectively over rest of the treatments in maize. The difference between 1 and 2 t ha-1 was on
par with each other. The B: C ratio was significantly superior in these treatments.
Panwar (2008) revealed that maize equivalent yield, net return and Benefit : Cost ratio for
whole system established superiority of the 50 % substitution of NPK through farmyard manure
in maize + 100 % NPK in mustard, followed by 25 % of NPK substitution through farmyard
manure + 75 % NPK through fertilizer and getting 100 % NPK in mustard over all other
treatments.
Ashoka et al. (2008) found that application of RDF (150:75:40 kg N, P2O5 , K2O ha-1) +
25 kg zinc sulphate + 10 kg ferrous sulphate +35 kg vermicompost in baby corn recorded
significantly higher gross returns( 96,838 ₹ ha-1), net return (76,889 ₹ ha-1) and B:C ratio (3.85)
was noticed in RDF+25 kg ZnSo4+35 kg vermicompost treatment.
Leela Rani et al. (2011) noted that the higher net returns were obtained by baby corn
cultivar VL-78 with combined application of 75 % N through fertilizer + 25 % N through Neem
cake in baby corn.
Sharma et al. (2012) indicated that application of 75 % N through vermicompost+25 % N
through decomposed organic waste + biofertilizer (Azotobacter+PSB) gave maximum grain
yield (18.21 q ha-1) and stover yield (59.42 q ha-1) with B:C ratio of 2.82 in pearl millet.
Farhad et al. (2013) study indicated that the highest net benefit ($1788 ha-1) was achieved
by recommended NPK treatment; contrarily, the highest marginal rate of return (35 %) was
obtained by application of 600 mm ha-1 depth of irrigation water and 12 t CPM ha-1 (compost
poultry manure) in maize.
Siddeswaran and Shanmugam (2013) revealed that the combination of both organics and
inorganics (50 % each) in baby corn resulted higher net returns and B:C ratio (2.95) due to the
less cost involved in nutrient application compared with different organic farming packages.
Among the different organic farming packages, 100 % N as EFYM + Neem cake + Biocompost
registered higher net returns with B: C ratio (2.50).
Sharma and Banik (2014) found that cultivation cost of baby corn was higher for
vermicompost due to cost paid for vermicompost and for its application. Economic returns were
higher for vermicompost application. Higher baby corn productivity with greater soil health can
be obtained by application of 100 % RDF with vermicompost.
Keerthirani (2015) concluded that the cost of cultivation (49,403 ₹ ha-1) was highest in
baby corn with the application of vermicompost at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + EBDLM at 75 kg N eq.
ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15 and 45 DAS + vermiwash spray at 30 DAS. Whereas, the
 16

gross returns, net returns and B:C ratio were highest with poultry manure at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 +
EBDLM at 75 kg N eq. ha-1 + panchagavya spray (3 %) at 15 and 45 DAS + vermiwash spray at
30 DAS (` 1,99,103, 1,53,208 ₹ ha-1 and 4.34, respectively).
Madane et al. (2016) obtained that in maize application of 75 % RDF + 10 t FYM ha-1
recorded significantly the higher gross returns of 77,720 ₹ ha-1. However, application of 75 %
RDF + 5 t FYM ha-1 and 75 % RDF + 1.25 t vermicompost ha-1 were at par and recorded
significantly higher net returns (30,810 and 30,770 ₹ ha-1, respectively) over rest of integrated
nutrient management treatments and among the integrated nutrient management treatments the
B:C ratio was more or less same in the treatment of 75 % RDF + 1.25 t vermicompost ha-1 (1.73)
and 75 % RDF + 5 t FYM ha-1 (1.70)
Jinjala et al. (2016) revealed that application of 100 % RDN from chemical fertilizer with
biofertilizer in baby corn was recorded higher net returns over 100 % RDN from vermicompost (
220775 ₹ ha-1) and BCR (12.54).
Ravichandran et al .(2016) concluded that the adoption of high plant population and
application of 100 % recommended dose of fertilizer N and FYM in baby corn had given the
highest gross return and net return. The higher green cob and fodder yield recorded under this
combination resulted in the highest gross return and net return ha-1.
Goudar et al. (2016) found that among different treatments, application of FYM at 10 t
ha-1 has recorded significantly higher grain yield, net returns and B:C (1761 kg ha-1,.21280 ₹
ha-1 and 2.18, respectively) in finger millet compared to application of maize residues at 5 t ha-1
(1365 kg ha-1 11,528 ₹ ha-1 and 1.52).
Negi et al. (2016) revealed that 50 % NPK (inorganics) + 50 % N (FYM) gave
significantly higher net return (214683 ₹ ha-1), B: C ratio (1.82) and energy output in baby corn.
 17

3. MATERIAL AND METHODS

The present investigation on “Effect of organic sources of nitrogen on growth, yield and
quality of baby corn” was undertaken during rabi 2016-17 at the Agronomy Organic Farm,
College of Agriculture, Pune. The details of material used and methodology adopted during the
period of investigation are explained in this chapter under the following heads.
3.1 Details of the Experimental Material
3.1.1 Experimental site
The field experiment was laid out during rabi season of 2016-17 at Agronomy Organic
Farm, in Plot No. 3 ‘B’ Division, College of Agriculture, Pune (M.S.)
3.1.2 Soil
The topography of the experimental field was uniform and leveled. The soil of the
experimental site was medium black and well drained with uniform depth up to 90 cm. In order
to know the physical and chemical composition of experimental soil, the samples from 0 to 30
cm depth were collected from 5 randomly selected points in zig-zag pattern with the help of a
screw auger. The samples were mixed together, air dried and a composite representative soil
sample was prepared and analyzed. The relevant data regarding physical and chemical properties
of soil along with respective analytical methods used for estimation are presented in Table 3.1.
The data presented in Table 3.1 indicated that the soil of experimental field was clay in
texture with moderately alkaline in reaction (pH 7.5). The soil was low in available nitrogen
(178.14 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphorus (21.58 kg ha-1) and high in available
potassium (321.20 kg ha-1) while, low in organic carbon content (0.49 %). Initial microbial count
was i.e. Bacteria (38×103 CFU g-1 soil), Fungi (6.5×103 CFU g-1 soil) and Actinomyecetes
(7.3×103 CFU g-1 soil).
3.1.3 Location and climatic conditions
3.1.3.1 General
Agroclimatically, Pune comes under the plain zone. Geographically, Pune is situated at
elevation of 557.7 metres above mean sea level on 18°22’ North latitude and 73°51’ East
longitudes. The average annual rainfall of Pune is 675 mm. Out of the total annual precipitation,
75 per cent gets received during the period from June to September from South-West monsoon,
while the remaining quantity receives mostly in the month of October and November from
North-East monsoon. The annual average maximum and minimum temperature ranged between
34 to 40° C and 6 to10° C, respectively.
3.1.3.2 Climatic conditions during the period of experimentation
From the meteorological data presented in Table 2 indicated that the mean maximum and
minimum temperature during the present investigation varied from 28.6°C to 35.2°C and 9.2°C to
13.6°C, respectively. The mean relative humidity during morning and evening hours were
 18

recorded between 78.6 to 95.9 per cent and 16.6 to 35.6 per cent, respectively. As concerned
with rainy days, no rainfall took place during the crop period. Regarding the bright sunshine
hours the maximum sunshine hours (10.4 hrs day-1) were recorded during the 8th meteorological
week and minimum (6.1 hrs day-1) were observed in the 3rd meteorological week. The climatic
conditions were very much favorable for the crop growth and development during rabi 2016-17.
The incidence of pests and diseases were not severe, the crop stand was good and healthy.
Table 3.1: Physical and chemical properties of experimental soil
Sr. Component Value Method Reference
No.
1 Particle Size Analysis
i) Sand ( %) 28.62 Hydrometer Page et.al.,1982
ii) Silt ( %) 24.15
iii) Clay( %) 47.23
2 Texture Clay loam Triangular diagram Piper, 1966
method
3 pH 7.5 Potentiometric Page et al., 1982
4 EC (dSm-1) 0.28 Conductometry Jackson, 1967
5 Organic Carbon ( %) 0.49 Wet oxidation method Jackson, 1967

6 Available N (kg ha-1) 178.14 Alkaline permanganate Subbiah and

method Asija,1956

7 Available P (kg ha-1) 21.58 0.5 M NaHCO3 extract Olsen and

method Sommers, 1982

8 Available K (kg ha-1) 321.20 Neutral normal Knudson and

ammonium acetate Peterson,1982
extraction method
9 Soil Microbial Count ( 103 CFU g-1 Soil)
i) Bacteria 38 Serial dilution method Cappuccino and
ii) Fungi 6.5 Sherman,1987
iii) Actinomyecetes 7.3
 19

Table 3.2: Weekly meteorological data recorded during the experimental period

Met. Period Mean Relative humidity

Month Rainfall Rainy Bright sunshine
week (Dates) Temperature (°C) ( %)
(mm) days (hrs. day-1)
Max. Min. Morning Evening
47 18-24 29.8 10.7 92.9 25.8 0.0 0 8.2
Nov. 2016
48 25-1 31.7 10.4 94.9 24.5 0.0 0 9.1
49 2-8 30.0 13.4 91.6 37.1 0.0 0 8.4
Dec. 50 9-15 29.8 12.9 88.4 32.9 0.0 0 8.0
2016 51 16-22 29.7 11.8 92.7 30.6 0.0 0 8.0
52 23-30 31.0 9.8 94.4 21.7 0.0 0 9.1
1 1-7 29.9 9.2 95.9 23.6 0.0 0 8.7
Jan. 2 8-14 28.6 9.5 93.4 26.7 0.0 0 9.2
2017 3 15-21 28.8 13.4 88.3 35.6 0.0 0 6.1
4 22-28 31.1 13.0 88.6 30.7 0.0 0 8.7
5 29-4 31.8 13.2 91.0 26.6 0.0 0 9.4
Feb. 6 5-11 32.0 14.2 89.3 26.6 0.0 0 9.2
2017 7 12-18 31.5 13.6 81.9 28.9 0.0 0 8.8
8 19-25 35.2 13.5 78.6 16.6 0.0 0 10.4
 20

The normal rainfall, temperature, humidity, RH ( %) and sunshine hours during cropping
period 3 mm during MW 47-52 and no rainfall during 1-8, Max. temperature was 33°C and Min
temperature was 10°C, RH 87 % and sunshine hours 9.2 hrs.
3.1.4 Previous cropping history of experimental plot
The cropping history of experimental field for previous five years is presented in Table 3.3
Table 3.3: Cropping history of the experimental field
Sr. Year Crops grown in previous years
No. Kharif Rabi Summer
1 2010-11 Soybean Vegetables Fallow
2 2011-12 Soybean Wheat Fallow
3 2012-13 Sunnhemp Wheat Sunnhemp
4 2013-14 French bean Wheat Fallow
5 2015-16 French bean Wheat Fallow

3.2 Details of Experimental Methods

3.2.1 Experimental details
A field experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with twelve treatments and
three replications during rabi, 2016-17. The experimental details and the treatments and
composition of organic manures are given in Table 3.4 and Table 3.5, respectively.

Experimental details:

a) Name of crop : Baby Corn

b) Variety : Gold-999
c) Season : Rabi, 2016-17
d) Design : Randomized Block Design
e) No. of Replications : Three
f) No. of Treatments : Twelve
g) Spacing : 60 cm x 10 cm
h) Plot size : Gross: 4.20 m x 3.60 m
: Net : 3.80 m x 2.40 m
i) Place of research work : Agronomy Farm (Organic Plot)
College of Agriculture,Pune.
j) Commencement of
Research work : rabi, 2016
k) Date of Sowing : 18th November, 2016
l) Date of Harvesting : 21st February, 2017
 21

Table 3.4: Treatment details with their symbols

Symbol Treatment

T1 100 % RDN through FYM

T2 100 % RDN through vermicompost

T3 100 % RDN through poultry manure

T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake

T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake

T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake

T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through vermicompost

T8 50 % RDN through vermicompost+50 % RDN through poultry manure

T9 50 % RDN through poultry manure+50 % RDN through neem seed cake

T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake+50 % RDN through castor seed cake

T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake+50 % RDN through cotton seed cake

T12 Absolute control

NOTE:-
1. RDN: 120 Kg N ha-1
2. Seed treated with Azotobacter and PSB (for 1 to 11 treatments)
3. Foliar spray of vermiwash applied at 20 and 35 DAS (for 1 to 11 treatments)
Table 3.5: Composition of organic manures
Sr.No Parameters Actual % Theoretical Method Reference
of N % of N used
1 FYM 0.50 0.56
2 Vermicompost 1.2 1.5 Micro
3 Poultry manure 2.9 3.03 kjeldahl Piper,1966
4 Neem seed cake 4.5 5.18 method
5 Castor seed cake 4.4 4.5
6 Cotton seed cake 3.8 3.9

3.2.2 Cultural operations

The various cultural operations carried out in the experimental field are presented in
Table 3.6.
 22

3.2.3 Land preparation

The land was ploughed with the help of tractor by using mouldboard plough, then
cultivar was passed to crush the clods and to get the fine tilth. The land was levelled and the
field was laid out in to experimental plots as per the plan.
3.2.4 Preparation of field layout
Field layout as per the plan was prepared in the experimental field. The flat beds were
prepared as per size of gross plot.
N
T7 T2 T8 T3 T9 T5
RI
T10 T4 T11 T6 T12 T1

T6 T8 T5 T11 T9 T2
RII
T1 T3 T10 T7 T4 T12

T12 T6 T10 T9 T5 T3
RIII
T4 T2 T7 T1 T8 T11

Fig. 3.2 Plan of layout

3.2.5. Seeds
3.2.5.1 Variety
The certified seed of baby corn named Gold-999 was purchased from Green Gold Seeds
Pvt. Ltd., Aurangabad.
3.2.5.2 Seed treatment
The baby corn seeds were treated with Azotobacter and PSB culture @ 250g 10-1 kg of
seeds before sowing and seed was dried under shade as per treatments.
3.2.6 Sowing
Seed was hand dibbled to a depth of 3-4 cm, at a row spacing 60 cm and plant to plant
spacing of 10 cm in small furrows opened with the help of an iron marker.
3.2.7 Manures application
Before application of FYM, vermicompost, poultry manure, neem seed cake, castor cake
and cotton cake were analyzed for N content in the laboratory by Micro kjeldahl method (Piper,
1966) method and applied with 120 kg N ha-1 before sowing to each plot as per the treatment.
3.2.8After care
 23

3.2.8.1 Gap filling and thinning

Gap filling was done immediately at 10 DAS to maintain uniform plant population
wherever necessary. Similarly, thinning was carried out at 14 DAS, by keeping only one healthy
seedling per hill and the initial plant population was maintained.
3.2.8.2 Irrigation
At the time of sowing soil moisture was inadequate for germination of seed. Irrigation
was given to each plot and thereafter at 10-15 days interval. Irrigations were given as per
requirement of crop.
3.2.8.3 Weed control
One hand weeding at 20 DAS followed by hoeing at 25 DAS were carried out to each plot
to minimize the growth and intensity of weed. After 40 DAS hand pulling of weeds was carried
out and maintained the plot weed free.
3.2.8.4 Plant protection measures
Plant protection measure of neem oil spraying was undertaken to protect the crop from
sucking and stem borer pests.
3.2.8.5 Detasseling
Tassels were removed from all plants at its emergence but before flowering.
3.2.8.6 Harvesting
After emergence of silk (2-3 cm in length) cobs were removed at green stage. Border
rows were handpicked and kept separately and then the rest net plot was harvested the weight of
green cobs were recorded and expressed in gram (kg). Such six hand picking were done. The
green fodder was harvested and weight was recorded.
3.3 Biometric Observations
Various biometric observations of five randomly selected plants from each net plot of
each treatment for all the three replications were recorded periodically at 14 days intervals.
These plants were permanently tagged with bamboo pegs fixed near plants and used for
recording all biometric observations.

3.3.1 Plant count

The details of techniques employed for recording observations on plant count are
described below.
3.3.1.1 Initial plant count
The plant count initially was recorded by counting all the plants from each net plot after
14 days from sowing and reported in percentage to theoretical.
3.3.1.2 Final plant count
The final plant count was recorded by counting all the plants from each net plot at the
time of harvest and reported in percentage to theoretical.
 24

Table 3.6: Schedule of cultural operations carried out in the experimental field during Rabi
2016-17.

Sr. No. Field Operations Frequency Date

A. Preparatory tillage
1 Ploughing 1 12/10/2016
2 Harrowing 1 13/11/2016
3 Layout 1 16/11/2016
B. Sowing
1 Sowing 1 18/11/2016
C. Post sowing operations
1 Gap filling 1 28/11/2016
2 Thinning 1 2/12/2016
3 Hand weeding 2 8/12/2016
28/12/2016
4 Hoeing 1 13/12/2016
18/11/2016
25/11/16
5/12/2016
20/12/16
5 Irrigations 8
3/1/2017
20/1/2017
5/2/2017
20/2/2017
6 Neem oil spraying 1 16/12/16
D. Harvesting
7 Ist Picking 6/2/2017
IInd Picking 9/2/2017
IIIrd Picking 12/2/2017
6
IVth Picking 15/2/2017
Vth Picking 18/2/2107
VIth Picking 21/2/2017
 25

3.3.2 Growth studies

In order to assess the effect of different treatments on the growth and yield of the crop,
periodical observations were recorded at 28,42,56,70 DAS and at harvest.
3.3.2.1 Plant height (cm)
The height of five observational plants from each treatment was measured periodically at
28,42,56,70 DAS and at harvest. Average of five plants was worked out to get the mean plant
height.
3.3.2.2 Number of functional leaves
The number of functional leaves per plant was recorded by counting the fully opened green
leaves of five observational plants and the average was worked out.
3.3.2.3 Leaf area plant-1(dm2)
Leaf area was measured by the following formula
Leaf area = Leaf length × Leaf breath × factor.
The length of the fully opened leaf lamina was measured from the base to the tip. Leaf
breath was taken at the widest point of the leaf lamina. The product of the leaf length and breadth
was multiplied by the factor 0.75 (Saxena and Singh, 1965) and the sum of leaf area of all the
leaves was expressed as dm2 per plant.
3.3.2.4 Dry matter accumulation plant-1 (g)
Randomly selected one plant was uprooted from each net treatment plot on 28, 42, 56, 70
DAS and at harvest. They were cut very close to the ground level for the determination of dry
matter production and it’s portioning in different parts of the plant. These samples were washed
and first sundried for 2-3 days and then oven dried at 60 0C temperature for 24 to 48 hrs. Dry
weight was recorded to assess dry matter accumulation in different plant parts. The total dry
matter production (sum of all parts) was expressed in g plant-1.

3.3.2.5 Days to silk initiation

The number of days required from sowing to days when plants showed silk was recorded.
3.3.3 Post Harvest Studies
3.3.3.1 Number of baby cobs per plant
The number of baby cob from the five observational plants was recorded individually and
the average number of baby corn per plant was worked out.
3.3.3.2 Length of baby cob with and without husk (cm)
The length of baby cob from five observational plants was measured from the tip to
bottom of corn and with and without husk and the mean length was worked out in cm.
3.3.3.3 Weight of Baby cob with and without husk (g)
The total weight of baby cobs from five observational plants was taken along with and
 26

without husk and the average weight of baby corn per plant was worked out.
3.3.3.4 Girth of Baby cob with and without husk (cm)
The girth of baby cob from five observational plants was measured at the centre of corn
with and without husk and the mean of girth was worked out in cm with the help of thread.
3.3.3.5 Baby corn yield (q ha -1)
The weight of baby cob with husk form each net plot was recorded in kg and it was
converted on hectare basis in q ha-1.
3.3.3.6 Green fodder yield (q ha -1)
After harvesting of the green cobs, the plants were cut immediately from each net plot
and the weight was recorded in kg and it was converted on hectare basis in q ha-1.
3.3.4 Quality Studies
3.3.4.1 Protein content in baby corn ( %)
Total N content was determined from the baby cob of each treatment by modified micro-
kjeldahl method (Piper, 1966). The protein percentage from the baby cob was calculated by the
following formula.
Per cent protein = N % X 6.25 (Factor)
3.3.4.2 Total sugar content in baby corn
Total sugar content in baby cob was estimated by Nelson-Somogyi method (1952) and
was expressed in mg g-1.
3.3.4.3 Carbohydrate content in baby corn
Carbohydrate content of baby corn cob was estimated by Anthrone method (Hodge and
Hofreiter, 1962) and was expressed in mg g-1.
3.3.5 Chemical studies
3.3.5.1 Soil analysis
The composite soil sample from 0-15 cm layer collected before sowing from the
experimental area and analyzed for its physical and chemical properties. After harvest, the soil
samples from each of the treatment for assessment of chemical properties were collected. These
samples were analyzed for estimation of available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content
by using standard methods presented in Table 3.1.
3.3.5.2 Soil pH
The soil pH was determined by pH meter after equilibrating soil with water for 60
minutes in the ratio of 1:2.5 soil water suspensions (Jackson, 1967).
3.3.5.3 Electrical conductivity of soil (dS m-1)
Electrical conductivity of soil was determined by 1:2.5 soil water suspensions using
Electrical conductivity meter (Jackson, 1967). The conductivity of the supernatant liquid was
 27

determined with the help of salt (conductivity) bridge by adjusting the temperature of the
solution at 25 oC.
3.3.5.4 Organic carbon ( %)
It was determined by Walkley and Blacks method (Jackson, 1967). The organic carbon in
soil was oxidized by known excess of chromic acid (potassium dichromate and concentrated
sulphuric acid mixture). This excess chromic acid which was not reduced by soil was determined
by back titration with standard ferrous sulphate solution (redox titration) using ferroin indicator.
The organic carbon in soil was calculated from the chromic acid utilized (reduced) by OC.
Table 3.7: Details of biometric observations recorded during the period of investigation

Sr.No. Particulars Frequ Period Size of sample

-ency
A Plant Count
1 Initial 1 14 DAS All plants from net plot
2 Final 1 At harvest All plants from net plot
B Growth Studies
1 Plant height (cm) 5 28,42,56,70DAS 5 plants from net plot
and at harvest
2 Number of functional 5 28,42,56,70DAS 5 plants from net plot
leaves plant-1 and at harvest
3 Dry matter plant-1(g) 5 28,42,56,70DAS 1 plant from net plot
and at harvest
4 Leaf area plant-1 (dm2) 5 28,42,56,70DAS 1 plant from net plot
and at harvest
5 Days to silk initiation 1 At silk initiation Net plot
C Post Harvest Studies
1 Number of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
plant-1
2 Length of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
with husk (cm)
3 Length of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
without husk (cm)
4 Weight of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
with husk (g)
5 Weight of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
without husk (g)
6 Girth of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
with husk (cm)
7 Girth of baby corn 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot
without husk (cm)
8 Baby corn yield 1 At harvest From net plot
(q ha-1)
9 Green fodder yield 1 At harvest From net plot
 28

(q ha-1)
D Chemical Studies
1 Soil analysis
a) Initial :pH, EC, 1 Initial Experimental plot
OC & available
N,P,K (Kg ha-1)
b) b) At harvest : pH, 1 At harvest Net plot
EC,OC and
available N,P,K
(Kg ha-1)

2 Plant analysis: N, P, K 1 At harvest 5 plants from net plot

content ( %)
3 Soil microbial studies 1 Initial and at Net plot
: initial and at harvest harvest
E Quality Studies
1 Protein content ( %) 1 At harvest Net plot
2 Sugar content (mg g-1) 1 At harvest Net plot
3 Carbohydrate(mg g-1) 1 At harvest Net plot
F Meteorological Studies
1 GDD(Growing 5 28,42,56,70DAS -
Degree Days) (°C) and at harvest
2 Canopy temperature 5 28,42,56,70DAS -
(°C) and at harvest
G Economic Studies
1 Gross monetary 1 At harvest -
returns (₹ ha -1)
2 Cost of cultivation 1 At harvest -
(₹ ha -1)
3 Net monetary returns 1 At harvest -
(₹ ha -1)
4 Benefit : Cost ratio 1 At harvest -

3.3.5.5 Analysis of microbial population in soil

Soil samples were collected from the rhizosphere of the plants from each treatment at
harvest. Microbial populations were enumerated from the soil samples collected at 0-15 cm
depth. The samples were mixed thoroughly and were subjected to serial dilution using 1 g of soil
in 9 ml of sterile water. The enumeration of micro-organisms was done after culturing these
organisms using different media by standard dilution plate technique. The media used were
nutrient agar (NA ) for bacteria, Martin’s Rose Bengal Agar with streptomycin sulphate for fungi
and kenknights media for actinomycetes. The number of colonies appeared on agar medium in
 29

plate were counted and multiplied by the representative dilution factor for each group of micro-
organisms and expressed as number of colonies per gram of oven dry soil.

No. of colonies × dilution factor

No. of microbes g-1 of oven dry soil =
Oven dry weight. of 1g soil sample

3.3.5.6 Plant analysis

The observational plants collected from each treatment plot after last picking were used
for chemical analysis. The dried samples of plant were grinded and were passed through Willey
mill (20 meshes) and about 20 g of representative samples from each powdered material was
stored in plastic bag, suitably labeled and used for estimation of nitrogen, phosphorus and
potassium separately. The methods utilized are given in Table 3.8.
Table 3.8: Methods used for analysis of NPK from biological material
Sr. No. Determination Method used Reference
1. Preparation of acid Conc. H2SO4 and H2O2 30 Parkinson and Allen,1975
extract % in 1:1 proportion

2. Nitrogen Micro-Kjeldahl method Parkinson and Allen,1975

3 Phosphorus Vanadomolybdate yellow Jackson,1973

colour method in nitric acid
system
4. Potassium Flame photometer Jackson,1967

3.3.6 Meteorological studies

3.3.6.1 Canopy temperature
The canopy temperature was measured with the help of infrared thermometer. The
thermometer was held obliquely so as to view the crop in order to obtain a canopy temperature
minimally influenced by the underlying soil. The canopy temperature was recorded twice a daily
i.e. at morning hours (0730 hrs) and at afternoon hours (1430 hrs). Such measurements were
recorded in baby corn crop periodically.
3.3.6.2 GDD (Growing Degree Days)
The growing degree days were calculated at the time of seedling stage, tasseling stage ,
silking stage by formula (Mali et al., 2000).
GDD = Maximum temperature + Minimum temperature / 2 – Base temperature
(Base temperature for maize = 10° C)
 30

3.3.7 Economics
3.3.7.1 Cost of cultivation
The cost of cultivation of baby corn was estimated by using the data on various aspects
such as wages rate of hired labors, irrigation charges, cost of seed, market rate of organic
manures, hired charges of machinery with implements. The cost of cultivation for baby corn is
given as per the treatments in Appendix I and common cost of cultivation in Appendix II.
3.3.7.2 Gross monetary returns (GMR)
Baby cob yield and fodder yield obtained from baby corn were converted into money
values (₹ ha-1) at the prevailing market price.
3.3.7.3 Net monetary returns (NMR)
Net monetary returns were calculated by subtracting the cost of cultivation from gross
monetary returns. This provides more meaningful basis for economic comparison since it
represents the net income.
3.3.7.4 Benefit: cost (B: C) ratio
It is also called input output ratio. It is ratio of gross monetary returns to the cost of
cultivation.
Gross Monetary returns
Benefit: cost ratio =
Cost of cultivation

3.4 Statistical Analysis

The statistical analysis of data on various growth and yield characters studied in the
investigation was carried out through the statistical analysis of variance technique as described
by Panse and Sukhatme (1967). The method of analysis of variance for randomized block design
was used and treatment effect on all the characters studied were further compared by employing
‘F’ test at 5 per cent level of significance was used to test the significance of the results.
Summary tables for treatment effects have been prepared and presented with standard
error of mean (SEm ±). The critical difference (C.D.) at 5 per cent level of significance was
given for those treatments which were found significant.
 31

4. RESULT AND DISCUSSION

The field experiment entitled “Effect of organic sources of nitrogen on growth, yield and
quality of baby corn’’ was conducted at Agronomy Organic Farm, College of Agriculture, Pune
during rabi season 2016-17. The detailed result obtained from this investigation is unfolded and
discussed in this chapter.
4.1 Plant Population of Baby Corn
Data regarding plant population of baby corn as influenced by different treatments are
presented and discussed in this chapter.
4.1.1 Initial and final plant count
Data with respect to mean initial and final plant count per hectare of baby corn as
influenced by different treatments are presented in Table 4.1.
There was non significant difference in the initial and final plant count due to different
treatments indicating that the mean plant stand at initial stage was uniform and it was 1.63 lakhs
ha-1, which was 98.28 % to the expected plant count, while mean final plant count recorded at
harvest was 1.61 lakhs ha-1, which was 96.53 % to the expected plant count, respectively.
4.2 Growth Studies
The biometric observations of baby corn were recorded on various growth parameters
viz., plant height, number of functional leaves plant-1, dry matter plant-1, leaf area plant-1 at
28,42,56,70 DAS and at harvest and days to silk initiation at silk initiation stage.
4.2.1 Plant height
The data pertaining to the plant height of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
are presented in Table 4.2 and graphically depicted in Fig.4.1
The plant height increased with advancement of crop age and maximum plant height was
recorded at harvest. Different treatments significantly influenced the plant height at all stages of
plant growth except at 28 DAS stage where it was found non significant. At 42, 56, 70 DAS and
at harvest significantly the highest plant height (36.67 cm, 78 cm, 110 cm, 176.67 cm ) was
recorded by treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) which was found at par with T7
(50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through
vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure). From the Table 3.10 it could be seen that
mean plant height at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest was 8.68 cm, 31.50 cm, 61.50 cm, 87.47
cm and at harvest 150.70 cm. The lowest plant height was recorded in T12 (Absolute control) at
all stages of growth.
It might be due to the more availability of nutrients by poultry manure throughout the
growing season. Nitrogen increases photosynthetic activity and helps in maintaining higher
auxin level which might have resulted in better plant height.
 32

Table 4.1: Initial and final plant count of baby corn ha-1 as influenced by different
treatments
Initial plant count Final plant count
Symbol Treatment
(lakhs ha-1) % (lakhs ha-1) %
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 1.63 98 1.61 96.98

T2 100 % RDN through VC 1.63 98 1.60 96.38

T3 100 % RDN through PM 1.65 99 1.62 97.05

T4 100 % RDN through neem seed 1.63 98 1.61 96.60

cake
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed 1.63 98 1.60 96.38
cake
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed 1.63 98 1.61 96.98
cake
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % 1.64 98.79 1.62 97.05
RDN through VC
T8 50 % RDN through VC +50 % 1.63 98 1.63 98
RDN through PM
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50 % 1.63 98 1.60 96.38
RDN through neem seed cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed 1.64 98.79 1.59 95.78
cake + 50 % RDN through castor
seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed 1.64 98.79 1.60 96.38
cake + 50 % RDN through cotton
seed cake
T12 Absolute control 1.63 98 1.58 95.18

S. Em+ 0.01 - 0.01 -

C.D. at 5 % NS - NS -
General mean 1.63 98.28 1.61 96.53

(Note: FYM: farm yard manure, VC: Vermicompost and PM: Poultry manure)
The favourable effect of vermicompost on growth might be attributed to presence of
relatively readily available plant nutrients, growth enhancing substances and number of
beneficial organisms like nitrogen fixing, phosphate solubilising, cellulose decomposing and
other beneficial microbes as well as antibiotics, vitamins and hormones etc.
 33

These results were in conformity with Farhad et al. (2009), Gudugi et al.(2012), Amos et
al. (2013), Simon and Balabbo (2015) , Ranjan et al. (2013), Kalra and Sharma (2015), Shiyam
et al.(2017) and Yogananda et al.(2017).
Table 4.2: Plant height (cm) of baby corn as influenced periodically by different treatments
Days after sowing At
Symbol Treatment
28 42 56 70 harvest
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 8.67 24.00 42 66.33 116.67
T2 100 % RDN through VC 8.67 31.33 56.33 74.00 144.33
T3 100 % RDN through PM 9.00 36.67 78.00 110 176.67
T4 100 % RDN through neem
8.27 26.00 47.67 68.33 145.67
seed cake
T5 100 % RDN through castor
9.00 34.67 76.33 99.00 165.67
seed cake
T6 100 % RDN through cotton
8.33 31.67 57.67 86.00 154.00
seed cake
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+
8.93 35.67 76.67 109.67 174.00
50 % RDN through VC
T8 50 % RDN through VC+50
9.00 36.00 77.33 109.33 175.33
% RDN through PM
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50
% RDN through neem seed 8.67 32.67 57.67 87.00 157.00
cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem
seed cake + 50 % RDN 8.33 31.33 57.33 86.67 149.00
through castor seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor
seed cake + 50 % RDN 9.00 34.33 69.33 94.33 158.67
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 8.33 23.67 41.67 60.00 91.33
S.Em+ 0.26 0.60 0.54 0.70 1.27
C.D. at 5 % NS 1.77 1.59 2.06 3.72
General mean 8.68 31.50 61.50 87.56 150.70
 34

4.2.2 Number of functional leaves plant-1

The results regarding number of functional leaves plant-1 of baby corn at various phases
of crop growth as influenced by different treatments are presented in Table 4.3 and depicted in
Fig. 4.2
The mean number of functional leaves plant-1 increased with advancement in age of crop
till 70 DAS however, it was reduced at harvest due to senescence of leaves. The treatment effect
on number of functional leaves was found to be non significant at 28 DAS, 42 DAS, 56 DAS and
at 70 DAS except at harvest. This could be due to the ability of the organic manure to supply the
nutrient elements necessary to promote more vigorous growth, improve meristematic and
physiological activities in the plants, as well as increase photosynthesis. The highest numbers of
functional leaves (9.33) at harvest were found in treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry
manure) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost+ 50 % RDN through poultry manure), which
were at par with the treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost),T2 (100 % RDN through vermicompost), T5 (100 % RDN through castor seed
cake), T6 (100 % RDN through cotton seed cake), T11 (50 % RDN through castor seed cake+ 50
% RDN through cotton seed cake).
The higher number of leaves plant-1 at harvest may be due to lesser senescence and leaf
retention for longer period with increase in N availability and thus, increase in N uptake, maize
being a nitro-positive plant.
Similar results were observed by Agba et al. (2012),Gudugi et al. (2012), Ranjan et al.
(2013) and Kalra and Sharma (2015).
4.2.3 Dry matter plant-1
The data in respect of mean dry matter plant-1 of baby corn as influenced by different
treatments at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest are presented in Table 4.4 and graphically
depicted in Fig.4.3
The dry matter plant-1 of baby corn increased continuously with the advancement in the
crop age up to harvest of crop. From the Table 4.4 it could be seen that mean dry matter plant-1
of baby corn at 28,42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest was 1.56 g, 18.89 g, 137.61 g, 270.23 g, and
370.08 g, respectively. Dry matter plant-1 differed significantly at 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest
except at 28 DAS. The treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) recorded significantly
higher dry matter plant-1 at all stages than all other treatments under study. However, at 56 DAS
treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN
through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) and T5 (100 % castor seed cake)
were found to be at par with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). At 42, 70 DAS
and at harvest treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost) and
T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) were found to be at
 35

Table 4.3: Number of functional leaves plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
different treatments
Days after sowing At
Symbol Treatment
28 42 56 70 harvest
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 5.93 8.60 10.00 12.67 8.33

T2 100 % RDN through VC 5.93 9.00 11.00 12.00 8.63

T3 100 % RDN through PM 6.00 9.00 11.00 13.00 9.33

T4 100 % RDN through neem seed

5.33 8.77 10.60 12.33 8.33
cake
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed
5.97 8.33 10.67 12.50 8.93
cake
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed
6.00 8.63 11.00 12.90 8.67
cake
T7 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 %
6.00 9.00 10.67 13.00 9.00
RDN through VC
T8 50 % RDN through VC+ 50 %
6.00 9.00 11.33 13.00 9.33
RDN through PM
T9 50 % RDN through PM+ 50 %
5.77 8.50 11.00 12.33 8.33
RDN through neem seed cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed
cake + 50 % RDN through 5.90 8.90 10.33 11.67 8.17
castor seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed
cake + 50 % RDN through 6.00 9.00 11.00 12.67 8.83
cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 5.67 8.43 10.00 12.07 8.00
S. Em+ 0.14 0.20 0.26 0.34 0.27
C.D. at 5 % NS NS NS NS 0.78
General mean 5.88 8.76 10.72 12.51 8.66

Par with T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure).Significantly lower values of mean dry matter
plant-111.67 g, 63.33 g, 93.07g, 187.13g, respectively were noted with T12 (Absolute control) at
42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest. Timely and optimum availability of essential nutrients through
poultry manure may have attributed to the higher dry matter plant-1. As increment in leaf area of
 36

the crop is the factor to increase biomass production because maximum leaf area absorb more
solar radiation and will increase the photosynthesis rate.
Similar results were noted by Boateng et al. (2006), Agba et al. (2012), Shinde et al.
(2014) and Kalra and Sharma (2015).
Table 4.4: Dry matter plant-1 (g) of baby corn as influenced periodically by different
treatments
Days after sowing At
Symbol Treatment
28 42 56 70 harvest
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 1.50 14.78 100.57 220.27 310.20
T2 100 % RDN through VC 1.52 23.67 115.00 244.87 356.80
T3 100 % RDN through PM 1.71 26.33 174.00 365.80 452.13
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 1.56 12.38 86.00 198.27 254.43
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 1.57 24.85 172.33 327.87 428.03
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 1.48 13.51 139.33 257.50 338.33
50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN
T7 1.60 25.67 173.67 359.21 446.13
through VC
50 % RDN through VC+ 50 % RDN
T8 1.63 25.83 172.77 360.50 451.20
through PM
50 % RDN through PM+ 50 % RDN
T9 1.57 18.33 148.33 232.73 402.63
through neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed cake +
T10 1.52 12.65 146.67 243.96 377.40
50 % RDN through castor seed cake
50 % RDN through castor seed cake +
T11 1.55 17.00 159.33 338.70 436.50
50 % RDN through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 1.47 11.67 63.33 93.07 187.13
S. Em+ 0.08 0.47 3.29 2.94 2.24
C.D. at 5 % NS 1.38 9.65 8.63 6.58
General mean 1.56 18.89 137.61 270.23 370.08
 37

4.2.4 Leaf area plant-1

The data in respect of leaf area plant-1 of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest are presented in Table 4.5 and graphically depicted in
Fig.4.4
The leaf area plant-1 of baby corn increased continuously with the advancement in the
crop age up to harvest of crop. From the Table 4.5 it could be seen that mean leaf area 4.15 dm2,
14.15 dm2, 47.83 dm2, 67.00 dm2, and 70.58 dm2 of baby corn at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at
harvest, respectively. Leaf area plant-1 differed significantly at 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest
except at 28 DAS. The treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) recorded significantly
the highest leaf area plant-1 at 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest than rest of the treatments under
study but, it was at par with treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry
manure). Significantly lower values of mean leaf area plant-1 (9.67dm2, 37.00dm2, 44.00dm2, and
49.33dm2, respectively) were noted with T12 (Absolute control) at 42, 54, 70 DAS and at harvest.
Nutrient availability through poultry manure is fast enough which resulted in higher
uptake and vigorous growth of the plant as compared to other manures. N is an important
constituent of amino acids and chloroplasts which directly influenced plant leaf area and
development through greater photosynthates.
Similar results were observed by Amos et al. (2013), Said et al. (2016) and Wailare and
Kesarwani (2017).
4.2.5 Days to silk initiation
The data in respect of days to silk initiation of baby corn as influenced by different
treatments is presented in Table 4.6 and graphically depicted in Fig. 4.5
The earlier silk initiation (77.33) was observed in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry
manure) it might be due to early availability of nitrogen to the crop. The significantly maximum
number of days for silk initiation (86.67) were observed in T12 (Absolute control) it might be due
to less availability of nitrogen to the crop. The mean number of days required for silk initiation
was 80.17.
Application of organic manures induced crop to reach to tasseling, silking and harvest
stage earlier than that in the non-manure or non-fertilized plot. Nutritional status of a crop is
known to influence floral induction in crop. Certain crop such as maize attains reproductive stage
only when N content in the plant is above the threshold level. Increase in N level advanced the
tasseling and silking stage in maize. This is probably due to the fact that poultry manure and
vermicompost supplied major nutrients as well as micro-nutrients ensuring balanced plant
nutrition thus, reducing the period of maturity.
 38

Beside the application of two vermiwash sprays might have attributed to presence of
growth harmones, enzymes, and other secretions of earthworms which could have stimulate the
growth and development of crop and even develop resistance in crop.
Similar results were found by More et al. (2013).

Table 4.5: Leaf area plant-1 (dm2) of baby corn as influenced periodically by different
treatments
Days after sowing At
Symbol Treatment
28 42 56 70 harvest
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 4.07 13.00 43.67 54.67 59.33
T2 100 % RDN through VC 4.13 14.90 49.33 64.33 67.33
T3 100 % RDN through PM 4.30 16.17 52.67 84.33 87.33
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 4.00 13.00 42.33 52.67 55.67
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed
4.00 14.83 49.33 75.67 79.00
cake
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed
4.17 14.97 49.00 64.67 65.67
cake
T7 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 %
4.20 16.33 51.00 82.33 86.33
RDN through VC
T8 50 % RDN through VC+ 50 % RDN
4.30 16.00 52.33 83.33 87.00
through PM
T9 50 % RDN through PM +50 % RDN
4.17 14.30 48.30 63.67 69.00
through neem seed cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake
+ 50 % RDN through castor seed 4.17 12.33 49.00 64.33 67.33
cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake
+ 50 % RDN through cotton seed 4.27 14.33 50.04 70.00 73.67
cake
T12 Absolute control 4.07 9.67 37.00 44.00 49.33
S. Em+ 0.15 0.28 0.74 0.76 1.22
C.D. at 5 % NS 0.83 2.17 2.23 3.57
General mean 4.15 14.15 47.83 67.00 70.58
 39

Table 4.6: Days to silk initiation of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
Days to silk
Symbol Treatment
initiation
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 80.00
T2 100 % RDN through VC 80.00
T3 100 % RDN through PM 77.33
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 83.67
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 78.33
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 79.67
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through VC 78.00
T8 50 % RDN through VC+50 % RDN through PM 77.67
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50 % RDN through neem seed
80.00
cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 % RDN
80.33
through castor seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN
80.33
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 86.67
S. Em+ 0.41
C.D. at 5 % 1.19
General mean 80.17

4.3 Post Harvest Studies

The data in respect of yield contributing characters viz., number of baby corn plant-1,
length of baby corn with husk, length of baby corn without husk, weight of baby corn with husk,
weight of baby corn without husk, girth of baby corn with husk and girth of baby corn without
husk are presented in Table 4.7, Table 4.8 and depicted in Fig.4.6, respectively.
4.3.1 Number of baby corn plant-1
The data pertaining to number of baby cobs plant-1 is presented in Table 4.7 and was
found to be non significant. The mean number of baby corn plant-1 was 3.99.
This may be attributed to the reason that cob bearing potential of a variety controlled by
its genetic makeup rather than the agronomic practices.
These results were in conformity with Farhad et al. (2009).
 40

Table 4.7: Number of baby corn plant-1 as influenced by different treatments

Number of baby
Symbol Treatment
corn plant-1
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 3.93
T2 100 % RDN through VC 4.00
T3 100 % RDN through PM 4.17
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 3.93
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 4.00
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 4.00
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through VC 4.00
T8 50 % RDN through VC+50 % RDN through PM 4.10
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50 % RDN through neem seed 4.00
cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 % RDN 3.97
through castor seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN 4.00
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 3.77
S. Em+ 0.07
C.D. at 5 % NS
General mean 3.99

4.3.2 Length of baby corn plant-1

It can be observed from data presented in Table 4.8 that the length of baby corn both with
husk and without husk was significantly influenced by different treatments.
The mean length of baby corn with husk and without husk was 25.56 cm and 8.95 cm,
respectively. Treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) recorded significantly the
longest length of cob both with husk (32.33 cm) and without husk (11.00 cm) than the rest of the
treatments except treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost)
and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) which were
found to be at par with it. Significantly, the lowest length of baby corn with husk (18.33 cm) and
without husk (6.20 cm) was observed in T12 (Absolute control).
4.3.3 Weight of baby corn plant-1
It can be observed from data presented in Table 4.8 that the weight of baby corn both
with husk and without husk was significantly influenced by different treatments.
 41

The mean weight of baby corn with husks and without husk were 61.59 g and 12.60 g,
respectively. Significantly, the highest weight of baby corn (76.33 g) with husks and (15.20 g)
without husk was recorded in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) than the rest of the
treatments except treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost)
and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) which were
found to be at par with it. The lowest weight of baby corn (37.33 g) with husks and (8.33 g)
without husk was recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
4.3.4 Girth of baby corn plant-1
It can be observed from data presented in Table 4.8 that the girth of baby corn both with
husk and without husk was significantly influenced by different treatments.
The mean girth of baby corn with husk and without husk was 7.68 cm and 3.20 cm,
respectively. Significantly, the highest girth of baby corn (9.00 cm) with husk and (4.00 cm)
without husk was recorded in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) than the rest of the
treatments except treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost)
and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) which were
found to be at par with it. Significantly, the lowest girth of baby corn (5.00 cm) with husk and
(2.08cm) without husk was recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
Increase in yield attributes might be due to increase in photosynthetic area, dry matter
accumulation and also due to translocation of photosynthates towards sink, in which potassium
plays a vital role and nitrogen and phosphorous are required for proper development. Thus,
greater availability of photosynthates, metabolites and nutrients to develop reproductive
structures seems to have resulted in increased productive plants, cob girth, cob length and cob
weight with these nutrient management treatments.
The results regarding number of baby corn, length, weight and girth of baby corn were in
conformity with Udom and Bello (2009), Gudugi et al. (2012), Ranjan et al. (2013), Amos et al.
(2013), Shinde et al. (2014), Keerthirani (2015), Singh et al. (2016), Hekmat and Abraham
(2016), Shiyam et al. (2017) and Shah and Wani (2017).
 42

Table 4.8: Length, weight and girth of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
Length of baby cob (cm) Weight of baby cob (g) Girth of baby cob (cm)
Symbol Treatment
with husk without husk with husk without husk with husk without husk
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 20.00 7.33 42.00 8.73 6.87 2.00
T2 100 % RDN through VC 24.00 8.67 58.67 13.27 7.33 3.00
T3 100 % RDN through PM 32.33 11.00 76.33 15.20 9.00 4.00
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 17.67 6.83 56.33 9.67 6.00 2.17
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 31.00 10.00 71.00 14.07 9.00 3.53
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 25.33 9.33 63.67 13.47 8.00 3.47
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through VC 31.33 10.33 74.17 14.33 8.67 3.90
T8 50 % RDN through VC+50 % RDN through PM 31.67 10.67 75.00 14.70 9.00 3.93
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50 % RDN through
24.33 8.67 62.00 13.50 7.33 3.41
neem seed cake
T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 % RDN
23.67 9.00 59.00 12.67 7.67 3.60
through castor seed cake
T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN
27.00 9.33 63.53 13.30 8.33 3.30
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 18.33 6.20 37.33 8.33 5.00 2.08
S. Em+ 0.37 0.44 1.46 0.31 0.21 0.06
C.D. at 5 % 1.09 1.28 4.28 0.90 0.63 0.18
General mean 25.56 8.95 61.59 12.60 7.68 3.20
 43

4.4 Yield Studies

The data in respect of baby corn and green fodder yield of baby corn as influenced by
different organic treatments are presented in Table 4.9 and graphically depicted in Fig.4.7
4.4.1 Baby corn yield
The baby corn (with husk) yield differed significantly due to various treatments. It could
be seen from the Table 4.9 that T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) produced highest baby
corn yield (135.23 q ha-1) which was significantly superior over the rest of the treatments but, it
was at par with treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost)
and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure). Significantly
the lowest yield (37.76 q ha-1) was obtained from treatment T12 (Absolute control). The data
regarding dry cob yield followed similar trend as fresh baby cob yield.
4.4.2 Green fodder yield
The differences in green fodder yield of baby corn was due to various treatments under
study were found significant. From the data summarized in Table 4.9 it was revealed that the
mean green fodder yield of baby corn under experimental conditions was 312.71q ha-1.
Treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN
through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure), T5 (100 % RDN through castor
seed cake) and T`11 (50 % RDN through castor seed cake+ 50 % RDN through cotton seed cake)
were at par with T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). Treatment T12 (Absolute control)
produced significantly the lowest green fodder yield (164.47q ha-1) compared to all other
treatments. The data regarding stover yield followed similar trend as green fodder yield.
The higher yield and yield attributes in poultry manure could be assigned to higher
mineralization potential of poultry manure enabling it to active and quick release of its nutrients
for plant uptake and use. It also might be due to the fact that poultry manure helped in
maintaining higher nutrient level resulting in better plant growth. These might also due to better
interception, absorption and utilization of radiation energy leading to higher photosynthetic rate
and finally more accumulation of dry matter by the plants. The overall improvement reflected
into better source-sink relationship, which in turn enhanced the yield and yield attributes. An
increase in the grain yield with FYM and vermicompost application along with NPK fertilizers
may be due to the fact that added FYM and vermicompost served as store house of several macro
and micro-nutrients which are released during the process of mineralization. In addition to
release of plant nutrients from the organic matter, the organic acids formed in the decomposition
process also release the native nutrients in soil and increases their availability to plants.
These results regarding baby corn and green fodder yields of experimental baby corn
were similar to Boateng et al. (2006), Farhad et al. (2009), Udom and Bello (2009), Agba et al.
(2012), Ranjan et al. (2013), Amos et al. (2013), Shinde et al. (2014), Sharma and Banik (2014),
 44

Keerthirani (2015), Said et al. (2016), Hekmat and Abraham(2016), Shiyam et al. (2017),
Wailare and Kesarwani (2017).
Table 4.9: Yield (q ha-1) of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
Dry
Baby corn Green Stover
Symbol Treatment cob
(with husk) fodder yield
yield

T1 100 % RDN through FYM 89.55 16.12 298.98 74.74

T2 100 % RDN through VC 98.68 17.76 324.56 81.14

T3 100 % RDN through PM 135.23 24.34 355.99 89.00

100 % RDN through neem seed
T4 73.83 13.29 255.12 63.78
cake
100 % RDN through castor seed
T5 109.65 19.74 350.15 87.54
cake
100 % RDN through cotton seed
T6 95.03 17.11 314.33 78.58
cake
50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 %
T7 113.30 20.39 351.97 87.99
RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC+50 %
T8 120.61 21.71 354.17 88.54
RDN through PM
50 % RDN through PM+50 %
T9 102.34 18.42 313.96 78.49
RDN through neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed
T10 cake + 50 % RDN through castor 98.68 17.76 321.64 80.41
seed cake
50 % RDN through castor seed
T11 cake + 50 % RDN through cotton 103.44 18.62 347.22 86.81
seed cake
T12 Absolute control 37.36 6.73 164.47 41.12
S. Em+ 7.63 1.37 9.40 2.35
C.D. at 5 % 22.67 4.03 27.56 6.89
General mean 99.14 17.85 312.71 78.18
 45

4.5Quality Studies
4.5.1 Protein content
Data regarding protein content ( %) in baby cob as influenced by different treatments are
presented in Table 4.10
From the present study, it could be noted that different treatments did not exert any
significant influence on protein content of baby corn. However, numerically protein content was
recorded higher in treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) i.e. 11.42 % over rest of
the treatments. Whereas, treatment T12 (Absolute control) recorded the lowest protein content in
baby corn (9.21 %) than remaining treatments.
The higher protein content in baby corn in these treatments might be due to better uptake
and utilization of nutrients by crop which were converted into amino acids. The increased protein
content recorded under application of poultry manure could be ascribed to the fact that the
protein content had a higher degree of positive relationship with the rate of photosynthesis which
might have favourably increased by micro and macronutrients supplied by poultry manure.
4.5.2 Sugar content
Data regarding total sugar content (mg g-1) in baby cob as influenced by different organic
treatments are presented in Table 4.10
The data revealed that effect of different organic treatments on total sugar content in baby
cob was found to be non significant. However, numerically sugar content was recorded higher in
treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) i.e. 35 mg g-1over rest of the treatments.
Whereas, treatment T12 (Absolute control) recorded significantly the lowest sugar content in
baby corn than remaining treatments.
This could also be explained on the basis of better availability of desired and required
nutrients in crop root zone and from its solubilisation caused by the organic acid produced from
the decaying organic matter and also the increased uptake by baby corn roots and enhanced
photosynthetic and metabolic activity resulting in better partitioning of photosynthates to sinks,
which reflected in quality enhancement in terms of total sugar.
4.5.3 Carbohydrate content
Data regarding total carbohydrate content (mg g-1) in baby cob as influenced by different
organic treatments are presented in Table 4.10
The data revealed that effect of different treatments on carbohydrate content in baby cob
was found to be non significant. However, numerically carbohydrate content was recorded
higher in treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) i.e. 59.33 mg g-1 over rest of the
treatments. Whereas, treatment T12 (Absolute control) recorded significantly the lowest
carbohydrate content in baby corn 52 mg g-1 than remaining treatments.
 46

The significantly no difference for quality parameter may be attributed to the reason that
quality characteristics of a variety controlled by its genetic makeup rather than the agronomic
practices.
The results regarding protein, sugar and carbohydrate content were similar to Saha et al.
(2007), Ashalatha (2009), Bhatia et al. (2012), Shinde et al. (2014), Nagavani and Subbian
(2014), Nasab et al. (2015), Keerthirani (2015), Jinjala et al. (2016), and Mariappan et al.
(2016).
4.6 Chemical Studies
4.6.1 N, P and K content ( %) in baby corn and stover
Data with respect to N, P and K content in baby corn and stover of baby corn as
influenced by different treatments are presented in Table 4.11 and depicted in Fig. 4.8
4.6.1.1 N, P and K content ( %) in baby cob
From the data summarized in Table 4.11, it was observed that effect of different
treatments on nutrient content in baby cob was found to be significant except nitrogen content.
The significantly higher phosphorus content in baby cob (0.45 %) was noted in T3 (100
% RDN through poultry manure) over remaining treatments. However, it was found at par with
T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN through
vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) and T5 (100 % RDN through castor seed
cake). Whereas, treatment T12 (Absolute control) recorded the lowest (0.32 %) phosphorus
content. The significantly higher potassium content in baby cob (0.70 %) was noted in T3 (100 %
RDN through poultry manure) over rest of the treatments except treatment T8 (50 % RDN
through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure) which was at par with it.
Significantly the lowest K content (0.51 %) was recorded in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
4.6.1.2 N, P and K Content ( %) in Stover
From the data summarized in Table 4.11, it was observed that effect of different
treatments on nutrient content in stover of baby corn was found to be significant.
The nitrogen content in stover of baby corn differed significantly due to different
treatments under study. The treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) registered
significantly higher nitrogen content (0.60 %) in stover, which was at par with the treatments T7
(50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through
vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure). Significantly the lowest value of nitrogen
content (0.50 %) was recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
Treatments T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure)
recorded higher phosphorus content in baby corn stover and hence, were at par with treatment T3
(100 % RDN through poultry manure) which registered significantly the highest phosphorus
 47

Table 4.10: Quality parameters of baby corn as influenced by different treatments

Quality parameters

Total sugar Carbohydrate

Symbol Treatment Protein content content
content ( %)
(mg g-1)

T1 100 % RDN through FYM 11.08 33.00 53.00

T2 100 % RDN through VC 11.25 33.33 55.33

T3 100 % RDN through PM 11.42 35.00 59.33

100 % RDN through neem seed
T4 10.94 32.00 53.33
cake
100 % RDN through castor
T5 11.27 34.33 55.67
seed cake
100 % RDN through cotton
T6 11.08 32.00 54.00
seed cake
50 % RDN through FYM+ 50
T7 11.31 34.33 57.00
% RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC+50 %
T8 11.29 34.00 56.33
RDN through PM
50 % RDN through poultry
T9 manure +50 % RDN through 10.96 33.67 55.00
neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed
T10 cake + 50 % RDN through 10.81 32.03 54.67
castor seed cake
50 % RDN through castor seed
T11 cake + 50 % RDN through 11.25 35.33 56.67
cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 9.21 31.00 52.00
S. Em+ 0.43 0.94 1.36
C.D. at 5 % NS NS NS
General mean 10.99 33.34 55.19

content (0.26 %) in stover. Significantly the lowest value of phosphorus content in stover (0.15
%) was recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
 48

Except treatments T1 (100 % RDN through FYM), T4 (100 % RDN through neem seed
cake), T6 (100 % RDN through cotton seed cake), T9 (50 % RDN through poultry manure +50 %
RDN through neem seed cake) and T12 (Absolute control) remaining treatments were at par with
T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) which registered significantly the highest potassium
content (0.98 %) in stover. Significantly the lowest value of potassium content in stover (0.80 %)
was recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
Table 4.11: N, P and K content ( %) in baby corn and stover as influenced by different
treatments.
Baby cob Stover
Symbol Treatment
N P K N P K
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 1.77 0.35 0.57 0.53 0.17 0.83

T2 100 % RDN through VC 1.80 0.37 0.60 0.54 0.19 0.90

T3 100 % RDN through PM 1.83 0.45 0.70 0.60 0.26 0.98

T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 1.75 0.34 0.59 0.54 0.18 0.85
100 % RDN through castor seed
T5 1.80 0.41 0.63 0.55 0.21 0.92
cake
100 % RDN through cotton seed
T6 1.77 0.35 0.59 0.54 0.20 0.86
cake
50 % RDN through FYM + 50 %
T7 1.81 0.44 0.65 0.57 0.22 0.92
RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC +50 % RDN
T8 1.81 0.44 0.67 0.58 0.23 0.97
through PM
50 % RDN through PM+50 % RDN
T9 1.75 0.34 0.61 0.53 0.20 0.84
through neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed cake
T10 + 50 % RDN through castor seed 1.73 0.36 0.60 0.53 0.19 0.90
cake
50 % RDN through castor seed cake
T11 + 50 % RDN through cotton seed 1.80 0.39 0.63 0.56 0.20 0.92
cake
T12 Absolute control 1.47 0.32 0.51 0.50 0.15 0.80
S. Em+ 0.07 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 0.03
C.D. at 5 % NS 0.04 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.08
General mean 1.76 0.38 0.61 0.55 0.20 0.89
 49

4.6.2 N, P and K uptake (kg ha-1) by baby corn and stover

The data regarding N, P and K by baby cob and stover of baby corn as influenced by
different treatments are presented in Table 4.12
4.6.2.1 N, P and K uptake by baby cob
The N, P and K uptake by baby corn was significantly influenced by different treatments
under study. Significantly the highest N, P and K uptake by baby cob (44.54 kg ha-1, 10.95 kg
ha-1 , 17.04 kg ha-1, respectively) was observed in treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry
manure). However, it was at par with treatment T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 %
RDN through poultry manure). The lowest N, P and K uptake (9.89 kg ha-1, 2.15 kg ha-1 , 3.43
kg ha-1, respectively) were observed in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
4.6.2.2 N, P and K uptake by stover
The N, P and K uptake by baby corn stover was significantly influenced by different
treatments under study. The N, P and K uptake by baby corn stover (53.40 kg ha-1, 23.14 kg ha-1
, 87.22 kg ha-1, respectively) was significantly highest with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through
poultry manure). But, Treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure),T5
(100 % RDN through castor seed cake) and T11 (50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 %
RDN through cotton seed cake) recorded higher N and K uptake than the rest of the treatments
which was at par with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure).The lowest N, P and K
uptake by Stover (20.56 kg ha-1, 6.17 kg ha-1 , 32.90 kg ha-1, respectively) were observed in
treatment T12 (Absolute control).
4.6.2.3 Total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium by baby corn
The data regarding mean total uptake of N, P and K as influenced by different treatments
are presented in Table 4.13 and Fig. 4.9
The data from the Table 4.13 revealed that average N, P and K removed by baby corn
were 68.73, 21.03, and 74.97 kg ha-1, respectively. The total nitrogen uptake (97.94 kg ha-1) by
baby corn was significantly maximum in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) than rest of
the treatments. However, it was at par with the treatment T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost
+ 50 % RDN through poultry manure) which recorded higher total N uptake among the
remaining treatments. The lowest N uptake (30.45 kg ha-1) was noticed in T12 (Absolute control).
Significant differences were noticed in total phosphorus uptake due to different
treatments. Significantly the highest total P (34.09 kg ha-1) was removed in T3 (100 % RDN
through poultry manure) over rest of the treatments. The lowest P uptake (8.32 kg ha-1) was
noticed in T12 (Absolute control).
 50

Table 4.12: Nutrient uptake (kg ha-1) by baby corn and stover as influenced by different
treatments
Baby cob Stover
Symbol Treatment
N P K N P K
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 28.53 5.64 9.19 39.61 12.71 62.03
T2 100 % RDN through VC 31.97 6.57 10.66 43.82 15.42 73.03
T3 100 % RDN through PM 44.54 10.95 17.04 53.40 23.14 87.22
100 % RDN through neem
T4 23.26 4.52 7.84 34.44 11.48 54.21
seed cake
100 % RDN through
T5 35.53 8.09 12.44 48.15 18.38 80.54
castor seed cake
100 % RDN through
T6 30.28 5.99 10.09 42.43 15.72 67.58
cotton seed cake
50 % RDN through FYM +
T7 36.91 8.97 13.25 50.15 19.36 80.95
50 % RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC +
T8 39.30 9.55 14.55 51.35 20.36 85.88
50 % RDN PM
50 % RDN through PM +
T9 50 % RDN through neem 32.24 6.26 11.24 41.60 15.70 65.93
seed cake
50 % RDN through neem
T10 seed cake + 50 % RDN 30.72 6.39 10.66 42.62 15.28 72.37
through castor seed cake
50 % RDN through castor
T11 seed cake + 50 % RDN 33.52 7.26 11.73 48.61 17.36 79.87
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 9.89 2.15 3.43 20.56 6.17 32.90
S. Em+ 2.48 0.58 0.88 1.83 0.72 3.64
C.D. at 5 % 7.28 1.70 2.58 5.37 2.11 10.68
General mean 31.39 6.86 11.01 43.06 15.92 70.21

Total potassium uptake by baby corn due to different treatments was found to be
significant. Significantly higher total K (104.26 kg ha-1) was removed in T3 (100 % RDN
through poultry manure) over all other treatments.
However, it was at par with T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry
 51

manure).This was closely followed by application of T5 (100 % RDN through castor seed cake)
which recorded values as (92.27 kg ha-1). Significantly the minimum value of K uptake (36.33
kg ha-1) was noticed in T12 (Absolute control).
The higher values of total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content and uptake with
T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) might be attributed to significant improvement in most
of growth and yield contributing characters, resulted in higher baby corn and fodder yield which
in turn resulted in higher nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake. Poultry manure was
reported the best source among the organic sources because of higher content of N that is readily
available to crop. The better response of poultry manure over other sources may be because of
higher approximately 40 % of total N in poultry manure in available form reported by Shepherd
and Withers (1999).
Similar results regarding nutrient content and uptake by plant were obtained by Dadarwal
(2008), Keerthirani (2015), Rasool et al. (2016) and Shah and Wani (2017).
Table 4.13: Total nutrient uptake (kg ha-1) by baby corn as influenced by different
treatments.
Symbol Treatment N P K
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 68.14 18.35 71.22
T2 100 % RDN through VC 75.78 21.99 83.68
T3 100 % RDN through PM 97.94 34.09 104.26
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 57.70 16.00 62.05
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 83.68 26.48 92.97
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 72.72 21.70 77.67
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through VC 87.06 28.33 94.20
T8 50 % RDN through VC + 50 % RDN through PM 90.65 29.92 100.43

T9 50 % RDN through PM +50 % RDN through 73.83 21.96 77.17

neem seed cake

T10 50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 % RDN 73.34 21.67 83.03
through castor seed cake

T11 50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN 82.13 24.62 91.60
through cotton seed cake
T12 Absolute control 30.45 8.32 36.33
S. Em+ 3.24 0.82 3.67
C.D. at 5 % 9.51 2.41 10.77
General mean 68.73 21.03 74.97
 52

4.6.3 Soil chemical properties at harvest of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
The data in respect of available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in soil after harvest
of baby corn and chemical properties viz., soil pH, EC and OC as influenced by different
treatments are presented in Table 4.14 and depicted in Fig. 4.10
The mean total available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium after harvest were 191.06,
23.08 and 323.11 kg ha-1, respectively. The available residual N recorded significantly maximum
N in treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) this was due to increased rate of
mineralization in soil which caused higher uptake of nutrients by plant and thus higher
availability was noted in the given treatment. Treatment T4 (100 % RDN through neem seed
cake) and T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost) recorded higher
available N which was found to be at par with T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). Neem
seed cake that was more pronounced in increasing the post-harvest soil available nutrients. Neem
seed cake inhibits the nitrification process which slows down the release of nitrogen from
organics might have reduced the N loss from soil since organic carbon in the soil was higher.
Available P and K were noticed maximum in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) than the
rest of the treatments was due to high rate of mineralization and high uptake by plant compared
to the other organic manure. Treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through
vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure)
were found to be at par with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). The increase in
available potassium might be related to release of K from various organic sources and also due to
the solubilisation of mineral bound K or native K. Further, it may also bedue to prevention of
leaching losses owing to retention of more K by organic colloids as they possess higher CEC
than mineral Whereas, significantly the lowest available N (156 kg ha-1), P (14.47 kg ha-1) and
K( 281 kg ha-1) were recorded in T12 (Absolute control).
4.6.4 Soil pH
The data in respect of soil pH after harvest of baby corn as influenced by different
organic treatments are presented in Table 4.14
Soil pH was not significantly influenced by different treatments. But, it was decreased
than the initial pH determined. The mean pH was 7.07.
4.6.5 Soil EC (dS m-1)
The data in respect of soil EC after harvest of baby corn as influenced by different
organic treatments are presented in Table 4.14
Soil EC was not significantly influenced by different treatments. But, it was increased
than the initial EC tested. Increase in EC might be due to presence of salts in organic manures.
The mean EC was 0.30 (dS m-1).
4.6.6 Soil organic carbon ( %)
 53

The data in respect of soil organic carbon after harvest of baby corn as influenced by
different treatments are presented in Table 4.14
Soil OC was not significantly influenced by different treatments. But, it was increased
than the initial OC determined. Organic manures helps in stabilizing organic carbon content in
soil after harvest. The mean OC was 0.52.
Similar results regarding pH, EC and OC were observed by Gupta et al. (2012) Kumar et
al. (2012) and Keerthirani (2015).
4.6.7 Soil microbial population
The data pertaining to the bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes colonization after the crop
harvest as influenced by the application of organic sources of nutrients is presented are Table
4.15
4.6.7.1 Bacteria
The data given in Table 4.15 indicates numerically higher number of bacterial population
(68.33CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) with T1 (100 % RDN through FYM) as compared to other
treatments. The lowest number of bacterial population (41.33 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) was found in
treatment T12 (Absolute control).
4.6.7 2 Fungi
Fungi population in soil differed numerically due to the application of organic sources of
nutrients Table 4.15
Higher number of fungal colonies (11.67CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) was found with T1 (100 %
RDN through FYM) than rest of the treatments next high numbers of fungal colonies were noted
in treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost). The lowest
number fungi population (5.33 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) was found in treatment T12 (Absolute
control).
4.6.7.3 Actinomycetes
Actinomycetes population in soil differed numerically due to the application of organic
sources of nutrients Higher number of actinomycetes population (10.67 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil)
was found with the treatments T1 (100 % RDN through FYM) and T7 (50 % RDN through FYM
+ 50 % RDN through vermicompost).The lowest number actinomycetes population (4.67 CFU x
103 g-1 of soil) was found in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
Direct application of FYM and vermicompost to the soil favours in greater multiplication
of microbes, which convert organically bound nutrients in inorganic form. Results regarding
microbial count were in conformity with Keerthirani (2015).
 54

Table 4.14: Soil chemical properties at harvest of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
EC N P K
Symbol Treatment pH OC ( %)
(dS m-1) (kg ha-1)
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 7.07 0.30 0.51 188.00 22.33 320.00
T2 100 % RDN through VC 7.17 0.31 0.52 190.20 24.00 322.67
T3 100 % RDN through PM 6.87 0.32 0.54 207.50 27.00 335.00
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 7.03 0.31 0.51 199.33 23.00 322.67
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 7.23 0.29 0.52 196.33 24.00 328.00
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 7.03 0.31 0.51 193.00 22.40 322.00
T7 50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 % RDN through VC 7.13 0.32 0.54 200.00 25.27 333.33
T8 50 % RDN through VC+50 % RDN through PM 7.00 0.32 0.54 198.80 25.00 333.67
T9 50 % RDN through PM+50 % RDN through neem seed cake 7.10 0.30 0.52 192.00 22.57 326.33
50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 % RDN through castor seed
T10 7.00 0.32 0.52 185.67 23.07 324.00
cake
50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN through cotton
T11 7.07 0.31 0.52 191.33 23.83 328.67
seed cake
T12 Absolute control 7.13 0.29 0.50 156.00 14.47 281.00
S. Em+ 0.08 0.01 0.01 2.61 0.93 2.19
C.D. at 5 % NS NS NS 7.65 2.73 6.42
General mean 7.07 0.30 0.52 191.06 23.08 323.11
Note: Initial pH (7.5), EC (0.28 dSm-1), OC (0.49 %), N (178.14 kg ha-1), P (21.58 kg ha-1) and K (320.20 kg ha-1).
 55

Table 4.15: Microbial population (103 CFU g-1 soil) in the soil after harvest of baby corn as
influenced by different treatments
Symbol Treatment Bacteria Fungi Actinomycetes
T1 100 % RDN through FYM 68.33 11.67 10.67
T2 100 % RDN through VC 59.67 8.67 8.67
T3 100 % RDN through PM 59.67 8.33 10.33
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 53.33 6.67 6.33
T5 100 % RDN through castor seed cake 51.33 7.33 7.33
T6 100 % RDN through cotton seed cake 48.00 6.67 6.33
50 % RDN through FYM+ 50 %
T7 67.33 9.87 10.67
RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC + 50 % RDN
T8 63.67 9.33 9.33
through PM
50 % RDN through PM +50 % RDN
T9 54.33 8.33 6.33
through neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed cake +
T10 49.33 7.67 7.67
50 % RDN through castor seed cake
50 % RDN through castor seed cake
T11 + 50 % RDN through cotton seed 58.33 7.67 8.00
cake
T12 Absolute control 41.33 5.33 4.67
General mean 56.22 8.12 8.02
Note: Initial microbial count was i.e. Bacteria (38×103 CFU g-1 soil), Fungi (6.5×103 CFU g-1
soil) and Actinomyecetes (7.3×103 CFU g-1 soil).
4.7 Meteorological observation
4.7.1 Canopy temperature
The data in respect of canopy temperature of baby corn as influenced by different
treatments at 28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest are presented in Table 4.16
The mean canopy temperature of baby corn was recorded at different growth stages i.e. at
28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest which were 23.85, 23.55, 23.86, 22.70 and 29.03 °C,
respectively.
 56

Table 4.16: Canopy temperature (°C ) of baby corn as influenced periodically by different
treatments
Days after Sowing At
Symbol Treatment
28 42 56 70 harvest

T1 100 % RDN through FYM 24.00 22.33 23.97 21.67 29.97

T2 100 % RDN through VC 24.37 23.50 24.73 21.33 29.53

T3 100 % RDN through PM 22.12 21.03 21.97 21.67 25.67

100 % RDN through neem

T4 24.00 23.77 22.93 23.07 29.90
seed cake
100 % RDN through castor
T5 23.67 25.00 24.80 24.27 29.93
seed cake
100 % RDN through cotton
T6 25.00 24.93 23.30 23.10 29.33
seed cake
50 % RDN through FYM + 50
T7 23.30 23.97 24.53 22.57 29.00
% RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC +50 %
T8 24.40 23.83 24.10 24.13 28.67
RDN through PM
50 % RDN through PM +50
T9 % RDN through neem seed 24.00 22.93 24.63 25.00 29.33
cake
50 % RDN through neem seed
T10 cake + 50 % RDN through 23.67 24.13 23.57 20.43 28.00
castor seed cake
50 % RDN through castor seed
T11 cake + 50 % RDN through 24.33 23.50 24.23 22.83 29.67
cotton seed cake

T12 Absolute control 23.37 23.63 23.50 22.33 29.33

General mean 23.85 23.55 23.86 22.70 29.03

4.7.2 Growing degree days

The data pertaining to periodical growing degree days as in influenced by various
treatments is presented in Table 4.17
 57

The cumulative growing degree days at critical growth stages of baby corn viz., seedling,
vegetative growth stage, peak vegetative growth stage, tasseling and silking were 346,895.66,
1166.06, 1521.33 and 1700.46 ºC days , respectively.
Table 4.17: Cumulative growing degree days (°C days) of baby corn as influenced
periodically by different treatments
Growth stages Growing degree days Cumulative
Seedling 346 346.00
Vegetative growth stage 549.66 895.66
Peak vegetative growth stage 270.4 1166.06
Tasseling 355.27 1521.33
Silking 179.13 1700.46
Total 1700.46

4.8 Economics
Data in respect of economics of different treatments in baby corn are presented in Table
4.18 and depicted in Fig. 4.11
The maximum cost of cultivation (1, 76,420₹ ha-1) was recorded in T5 (100 % RDN
through castor seed cake). The higher value of cost of cultivation in this treatment is due to high
cost of castor seed cake. Among the treatments low cost of cultivation (86,270 ₹ ha-1) was noted
by treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure), which was due to low quantity required
to apply RDN and low cost of poultry manure in market. The least cost of cultivation (71,635 ₹
ha-1) was noted in T12 (Absolute control).
The maximum gross monetary return (3, 41,667 ₹ ha-1) was obtained from T3 (100 %
RDN through poultry manure) but, it was at par with the treatment T7 (50 % RDN through FYM
+ 50 % RDN through vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN
through poultry manure). The least gross monetary returns (1, 07,620 ₹ ha-1) were obtained from
T12 (Absolute control).
The maximum net monetary returns (2, 55,397₹ ha-1) were obtained from T3 (100 %
RDN through poultry manure). The least net monetary returns (35,985 ₹ ha-1) were recorded in
T12 (Absolute control).The minimum net monetary returns among the treatments were noticed
due to higher cost of organic manures.
The maximum B: C ratio (3.96) was noted in the treatment T3 (100 % RDN through
poultry manure). The least B : C ratio (1.50) was noted in T12 (Absolute control) than the rest of
the treatments. Poultry manure treated plots obtained higher B:C ratio due to low cost of poultry
manure compared to other treatments and also due to high extractable N content in the manure
 58

than rest of the treatments. Poultry manure recorded highest baby cob yield as well as green
fodder yield and thus it obtained highest B:C ratio among all sources of nitrogen.
Similar results were observed by Manjunath et al. (2006), Sharma and Banik (2014),
Keethirani (2015), Negi et al. (2016).
Table 4.18: Cost of cultivation, gross and net monetary returns and benefit cost ratio of
baby corn as influenced by different treatments
COC GMR NMR B:C
Symbol Treatment
(₹ ha-1) ratio

T1 100 % RDN through FYM 1,21,820 2,38,889 1,17,069 1.96

T2 100 % RDN through VC 1,43,820 2,62,281 1,18,461 1.82
T3 100 % RDN through PM 86,270 3,41,667 2,55,397 3.96
T4 100 % RDN through neem seed cake 1,18,020 1,98,684 80,664 1.68
100 % RDN through castor seed
T5 1,76,420 2,89,327 1,12,907 1.64
cake
100 % RDN through cotton seed
T6 1,49,660 2,52,924 1,03,264 1.69
cake
50 % RDN through FYM + 50 %
T7 1,32,820 3,12,061 1,79,241 2.35
RDN through VC
50 % RDN through VC+ 50 % RDN
T8 1,15,045 2,97,003 1,81,958 2.58
through PM
50 % RDN through PM+ 50 % RDN
T9 1,02,145 2,67,471 1,65,326 2.62
through neem seed cake
50 % RDN through neem seed cake
T10 + 50 % RDN through castor seed 1,47,220 2,61,696 1,14,476 1.78
cake
50 % RDN through castor seed cake
T11 + 50 % RDN through cotton seed 1,63,040 2,76,316 1,13,276 1.69
cake
T12 Absolute control 71,635 1,07,620 35,985 1.50
S. Em+ - 15437 15437 -

C.D. at 5 % - 45277 45277 -

General mean - 2,58,828 1,31,962 -

Note: COC: Cost of Cultivation GMR: Gross Monetary Returns, NMR: Net Monetary Returns
 59

5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

The field investigation to study the “Effect of organic sources of nitrogen on growth,
yield and quality of baby corn” was undertaken during rabi season of 2016-17 at Agronomy
Organic Farm, College of Agriculture, Pune.
5.1 Summary
The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with twelve treatments and
three replications. The gross and net plot size were 4.20 x 3.60 m2 and 3.80 x 2.40 m2,
respectively. The twelve treatment consisted of T1 (100 % RDN through FYM), T2 (100 % RDN
through vermicompost), T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure), T4 (100 % RDN through
neem seed cake), T5 (100 % RDN through castor seed cake), T6 (100 % RDN through cotton seed
cake), T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN
through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure), T9 (50 % RDN through poultry
manure + 50 % RDN through neem seed cake), T10 (50 % RDN through neem seed cake + 50 %
RDN through castor seed cake), T11 (50 % RDN through castor seed cake + 50 % RDN through
cotton seed cake) and T12 (Absolute control).
The soil of the experimental field was clay loam in texture, low in available nitrogen
(178.14 kg ha-1) medium in available phosphorus (21.58 kg ha-1), high in available potassium
(321.20 kg ha-1),alkaline in reaction (pH 7.5), EC (0.28 dSm-1) and organic carbon (0.49 %).
Baby corn variety Gold-999 was sown @ 30 kg seed ha-1 at spacing of 60×10 cm2, on
18th November, 2016 and harvesting was completed on 21st February, 2017. Nitrogen @ 120 kg
ha-1 was applied to soil before sowing through six organic sources as per treatments. The
optimum plant population was maintained by thinning and gap filling, the crop was irrigated as
per the requirement.
Observations on plant growth characters were recorded periodically at an interval of 28,
42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest, while the observations on yield and yield contributing characters
were recorded at harvest. The chemical analysis of soil for available N, P, K and other chemical
properties were tested and N content of manures was determined before sowing to work out
quantity requirement. The uptake of NPK by crop and residual soil fertility as well as other
chemical properties status was worked out after crop harvest. For calculating the economics, the
prevailing market prices of inputs and outputs were considered.
5.1.1 Growth studies
The plant count of baby corn was almost uniform and not influenced significantly at 14
DAS and at harvest due to different treatments. The expression of growth characters viz., plant
height, number of functional leaves plant-1 , dry matter plant-1 , leaf area plant-1 were differed
significantly due to different treatments under study except at 28 DAS, whereas they were found
non significant. Number of functional leaves was found non significant at all stages of growth
 60

except at harvest due to senescence. Another growth parameter i.e. days to silk initiation was
also studied at silk initiation.
Substantial reduction in terms of growth attributes of baby corn was observed in absolute
control, where as they were maximum in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). The
corresponding values of plant height, number of functional leaves, dry matter plant-1 ,leaf area
plant-1 and days to silk initiation in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) were 176.67 cm,
9.33, 452.13 g, 87.33 dm2, 77.33 days respectively. Among the treatments T7 (50 % RDN
through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost +
50 % RDN through poultry manure) registered higher values of all these growth characters and
hence were at par with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure)
5.1.2 Yield attributes and yield
The yield attributes viz., number of baby corn plant-1, length of baby corn with husk,
length of baby corn without husk, weight of baby corn with husk, weight of baby corn without
husk, girth of baby corn with husk, girth of baby corn without husk, baby corn yield and green
fodder yield differed significantly due to different treatments. The values of these yield attributes
were maximum in T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) and the corresponding values were
4.17, 32.33 cm, 11.00 cm, 76.33 g, 15.20 g , 9.00 cm and 4.00cm, respectively. Treatment T3
(100 % RDN through poultry manure) was at par with treatments T7 (50 % RDN through FYM +
50 % RDN through vermicompost) and T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN
through poultry manure) as they recorded significantly higher values of these yield attributes.
However, minimum values of yield attributes were noted with T12 (Absolute control).
Further, it was noticed that the expression of these yield attributes ultimately reflected on
higher baby corn yield (135.23 q ha-1) and green fodder yield (355.99 q ha-1) in T3 (100 % RDN
through poultry manure). Same trend was observed amongst the treatments as that observed in
yield attributes. The lowest baby corn yield (37.36 q ha-1) and green fodder yield (164.47 q ha-1)
were observed in T12 (Absolute control).
5.1.3 Quality
There were no significant differences observed between treatments for quality parameters
i.e. protein, total sugar and carbohydrate content. However, it varied numerically amongst the
treatments. Treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) recorded higher values for all
this quality parameters and they are as follows protein 11.42 %, total sugar 35 mg g-1,
carbohydrate 59.33 mg g-1, respectively. The lowest values were recorded by treatment T12
(Absolute control) and they are 9.21 %, 31 mg g-1, 52 mg g-1, respectively.
5.1.4 Chemical studies
The higher values of nitrogen (1.83 % and 0.60 %), phosphorus (0.45 % and 0.26 %), and
potassium (0.70 % and 0.98 %) content in baby corn and stover of baby corn were recorded with
 61

treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). The next best treatment was T8 (50 % RDN
through vermicompost+ 50 % RDN through poultry manure).The minimum values of these
nutrients were observed in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
The treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) recorded significantly higher
nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by crop than rest of the treatments. The
corresponding values were (97.94 kg ha-1 N, 34.09 kg ha-1 P and 104.26 kg ha-1 K, respectively).
The second best treatment was T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost+ 50 % RDN through
poultry manure). However, the lowest nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake by crop was
noticed in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
The available residual N, P and K were recorded significantly maximum in treatment T3
(100 % RDN through poultry manure). Treatment T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost+ 50 %
RDN through poultry manure) was found to be at par with treatment T3 (100 % RDN through
poultry manure). Significantly the lowest values of available N, P and K were recorded in
treatment T12 (Absolute control).
After harvest of the crop the mean pH, EC and OC were (7.07, 0.30 dSm-1, and 0.52 %,
respectively). There was no significant difference observed by different treatments on pH, EC,
and OC content of soil after harvest.
Highest number of bacterial (68.33CFU x 103 g-1 of soil), fungal (11.67CFU x 103 g-1 of
soil) and actinomyecetes (10.67 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) colonies were found in treatment T1 (100
% RDN through FYM). Other treatments which recorded highest number of microbial colonies
were T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost), T8 (50 % RDN through
vermicompost+ 50 % RDN through poultry manure), T2 (100 % RDN through vermicompost)
and T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure). The lowest number of bacterial (41.33 CFU x 103
g-1 of soil), fungal (5.33 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil) and actinomyecetes (4.67 CFU x 103 g-1 of soil)
colonies were noted in treatment T12 (Absolute control).
5.1.5 Meteorological observations
The mean canopy temperature of baby corn was recorded at different growth stages i.e. at
28, 42, 56, 70 DAS and at harvest were 23.85, 23.55, 23.86, 22.70 and 29.03 °C, respectively.
The cumulative growing degree days at critical growth stages of baby corn viz., seedling,
vegetative growth stage, peak vegetative growth stage, tasseling and silking were 346, 895.66,
1166.06, 1521.33 and 1700.46, respectively.
5.1.6 Economics
The highest cost of cultivation was observed in treatment T5 (100 % RDN through castor
seed cake) due to high cost of castor seed cake. Among the different treatments maximum gross
(3, 41,667 ₹ ha-1) and net monetary returns (2, 55,397 ₹ ha-1) were obtained from T3 (100 %
 62

RDN through poultry manure. The minimum values of gross and net monetary returns were
noticed in T12 (Absolute control).
The maximum benefit cost ratio of 3.96 was recorded with T3 (100 % RDN through
poultry manure), whereas, minimum (1.50) was registered in T12 (Absolute control).
5.2 Conclusions
The following conclusions have been drawn from the present investigation.
1. The expression of growth, yield attributes and yield of organic baby corn were distinctly
higher with application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure, however, it was followed
by application of 50 % RDN through vermicompost+ 50 % RDN through poultry manure
and 50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN through vermicompost.The quality parameter
viz., protein content, sugar content, carbohydrate content of baby corn was non
significantly affected by application of different organic sources of nitrogen.
2. Application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure was found the most suitable organic
source of nitrogen for organic baby corn followed by combination of 50 % RDN through
vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure and 50 % RDN through FYM + 50
% RDN through vermicompost.
3. The application of 100 % RDN through poultry manure recorded the lowest cost of
cultivation (86,270 ₹ ha-1), higher values of gross monetary returns (3, 41,667 ₹ ha-1), net
monetary returns (2, 55,397 ₹ ha-1) and benefit cost ratio (3.96).
Thus, from economic point of view poultry manure would be advisable as the best
and cheaper organic source of nitrogen among other organic sources followed by 50 %
RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through neem seed cake.
The above conclusions, however, are based on one season study. For confirmation
of these results, the investigation needs to be repeated.
 63

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72
73
 72
7. APPENDICES

APPENDIX-I

Quantity of organic manures required and their calculated cost as per prevailing
prices

Sr. No. Source N Quantity required Rate tonne-1 Cost (₹ ha-1)

content ( tonnes ha-1 ) for (₹ ha-1)
120 Kg N ha-1

100% 50% 100% 50%

1 FYM 0.5 24 12 2000 48,000 24,000

2 Vermicompost 1.2 10 5 7000 70,000 35,000

3 Poultry Manure 2.9 4.15 2.07 3000 12,450 6,225

4 Neem seed 4.5 2.6 1.3 17000

44,200 22,100
cake

5 Castor seed 4.4 2.7 1.35 38000

1,02,600 51,300
cake

6 Cotton seed 3.8 3.16 1.58 24000

75,840 37,920
cake

7 Vermiwash - 33 litre ₹25 litre-1 ₹825 (2 times )

(3% spray)

8 Vermiwash - - ₹625 ₹1250 (2 times)

spraying spraying-1

9 Biofertilizer - 1.5 kg ₹10 packet-1 ₹60

10 Biofertilizer - - ₹ 50
application
 73
APPENDIX-II

Following rates/ prices were considered to calculate the common cost of cultivation

Sr. No. Particular Man per day (250 ₹ day-1) Rate (₹ ha-1)
1 Tractor ploughing - ₹ 3000 ha-1
2 Collection of stubbles - ₹ 1400 ha-1
3 Tractor harrowing 4 ₹ 1000 ha-1
4 Ridges and furrow opening 8 ₹ 2000 ha-1
5 Layout 20 ₹5000 ha-1
6 Manure application 10 ₹ 2500 ha-1
7 Sowing 20 ₹5000 ha-1
8 Cost of seed - ₹ 14400 ha-1( ₹480 Kg-1 )
9 Irrigation charges 2.5 (8 times) ₹5000 ha-1
10 Gap filling and thinning 4 ₹1000 ha-1
11 Weeding 25 ₹6250 ha-1
12 Hand pulling of weeds 10 ₹2500 ha-1
13 Hoeing 10 ₹ 2500 ha-1
14 Cost of neem oil - ₹4190 ha-1(₹ 1676 litre-1)
15 Neem oil spraying 2.5
₹ 625 ha-1
16 Detasseling 10 -1
₹ 2500 ha
17 Harvesting 30 -1
₹ 7500 ha
18 Green fodder cutting 20 -1
₹ 5000 ha
19 Land revenue - ₹170

20 Depreciation - ₹100

Total common cost of cultivation ₹ 71,635 ha-1

Selling rate

21 Selling rate of baby corn - -1

₹ 2000q
(with husk)
22 Selling rate of green fodder - -1
₹ 200q
 200

180

160

Plant height (cm) 140

120

100
28 DAS
42DAS
80
56 DAS
60
70 DAS
40
At harvest
20

0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.1 Plant height plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
different treatments

14
Number of functional leaves plant-1

12

10

8
28 DAS
6 42 DAS
56 DAS
4
70 DAS
2 At harvest
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig.4.2 Number of functional leaves plant-1 as influenced periodically by
different treatments
 500
450
400

Dry matter (g)

350
300
250 42 DAS
200
56 DAS
150
100 70 DAS
50 At harvest
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.3 Dry matter plant-1 ofbaby corn as influenced periodically by
different treatments

100
90
80
Leaf area (dm2)

70
60
50
28 DAS
40 42 DAS
30 56 DAS
20
70 DAS
10
0 At harvest
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12

Treatment
Fig. 4.4 Leaf area plant-1 of baby corn as influenced periodically by
different treatments

88
86
Days to silk initiation

84
82
80
78
76 Days to silk initiation
74
72
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12

Treatment
Fig. 4.5 Number of days to silk initiation of baby corn as influenced by
different treatments
 90

80

Yield contributing characters

70

60
Length of baby cob (cm) with
50 husk
Length of baby cob (cm)
40 without husk
Weight of baby cob (g) with
30 husk
Weight of baby cob (g) without
20 husk
Girth of baby cob (cm) with
10
husk
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.6 Length, weight and girth of baby cob of baby corn as influenced by
different treatments

400

350

300
Yield (q ha-1)

250

200 Baby corn (with husk)

150
Dry cob yield
Green fodder
100
Stover yield
50

0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.7 Yield of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
 2
1.8

Nutrient content (%)

1.6
1.4
1.2 Baby cob N
1 Baby cob P
0.8
0.6
Baby cob K
0.4 Stover N
0.2 Stover P
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12 Stover K
Treatment
Fig. 4.8 N, P and K content in baby corn and stover as influenced by
different treatments

120
Nutrient uptake (kg ha-1)

100

80

60
N
40
P
20 K
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.9 Total nutrient uptake by baby corn as influenced by different
treatments

400
Available N, P and K (kg ha-1)

350
300
250
200
150 N
100 P
50 K
0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.10 Available N, P and K in soil at harvest of baby corn as
influenced by different treatments
 400,000

350,000

300,000
COC, GMR, NMR (₹ ha-1)

250,000

200,000
COC
GMR
150,000
NMR

100,000

50,000

0
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10 T11 T12
Treatment
Fig. 4.11 Cost of cultivation, gross and net monetary returns of baby corn as influenced by different treatments
120

100

80

Mean Temperature (°C)

Min. temp
60
Relative humidity
Max. temp

40
Rainfall
Rainy days
Bright sunshine (hrs. day-1)
20

0
18-24 25-Jan 02-Aug Sep-15 16-22 23-30 01-Jul Aug-14 15-21 22-28 29-Apr 05-Nov Dec-18 19-25
47 48 49 50 51 52 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Fig. 3.1 Weekly meteorological data recorded during the experimental period
Plate 4.2: Comparison of T9 (50 % RDN through poultry manure+ 50 % RDN through
neem seed cake) and T4 (100 % RDN through neem seed cake)

Plate 4.3: Comparison of T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) and T6 (100 % RDN
through cotton seed cake)
Plate 4.4: Comparison of T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through
poultry manure) and T11 (50 % RDN through castor seed cake+ 50 % RDN
through cotton seed cake)

Plate 4.5: Comparison of T5 (100 % RDN through castor seed cake) and T1 (100 % RDN
through FYM)
Plate 4.6: Treatment T8 (50 % RDN through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry
manure)

Plate 4.7: Treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure)

Plate 4.8: Comparison of T2 (100 % RDN through vermicompost) and T12 (Absolute
control)

Plate 4.9: Treatment T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) at harvest

Plate 4.10: Comparison of cobs (with husk) in T7 (50 % RDN through FYM + 50 % RDN
through vermicompost) and T2 (100 % RDN through vermicompost)

Plate 4.11: Comparison of T3 (100 % RDN through poultry manure) and T8 ( 50 % RDN
through vermicompost + 50 % RDN through poultry manure)
Plate 4.12: Comparison of cobs (with husk) in T12 (Absolute control) and T3 (100 % RDN
through poultry manure)

Plate 4.13: Comparison of cobs (without husk) in T12 (Absolute control) and T3 (100 %
RDN through poultry manure)
Plate 4.1: General view of experimental plot
 74
8. VITAE
KHARCHE PRIYANKA PRAMOD
MASTER OF SCIENCE (AGRICULTURE)
IN
AGRONOMY

2018

: “Effect of organic sources of nitrogen on

Title of thesis:
growth, yield and quality of baby corn”

Major field : Agronomy

Biographical information

Personal Date of Birth : 9 August,1994

Place of Birth : Pimpri Gawali (Malkapur)

Father’s Name : Mr. Pramod Dattatray Kharche

Mother’s Name : Mrs. Radha Pramod Kharche

Educational Bachelor Degree : College of Agriculture, Parbhani

Obtained

Class : Distinction

Name of University : Vasantrao Naik MarathwadaKrushiVidyapeeth,

Parbhani

Address : A/p:Pimpri Gawali, Tal:Motala, Dist: Buldana

Email -id : kharchepriyanka6@gmail.com

Contact Number : +91 7756098490