Effect of Black Gram Genotypes and Nitrogen Levels on Yield Attributes and Yield of Maize under Maize + Black Gram Intercropping System

Abstract

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2017 at Agronomy Research Farm, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur to study the effect of black gram genotypes and nitrogen levels on yield attributes and yield of maize under maize + black gram intercropping system. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design comprising of five genotypes of black gram (Him Mash-1, DKU-118, DKU-82, DKU-98 and DKU-99) and two nitrogen levels (50 and 100 % recommended dose of nitrogen for maize). Experimental site was silty clay loam in texture, acidic in reaction, low in available nitrogen, and medium in available phosphorus and potassium. Intercropping with different mash varieties significantly influenced yield attributes and yields of maize. The highest number of grains/cob (539), test weight (238 g), grain yield (3501.3 kg/ha) of maize was recorded in maize + Him Mash-1 intercropping system. Application of 100% recommended dose of nitrogen resulted in significantly higher values of yield attributes and yields as compared to 50% recommended dose of nitrogen. Sole maize crop recorded higher values of yield attributes and yields of maize over intercropped maize. Him mash-1 with 100% recommended dose of nitrogen significantly improved the yield attributes of maize.