Studies of soil properties and its relation with nut yield under INM practice of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)

The present investigation was carried out during 2018-19 in the Department of Horticulture (Fruit and Fruit Technology), BAC, Sabour to studies the soil properties and its relation with nut yield under INM practice of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.). Soil pH, EC and available N, P and K content in the soil was recorded maximum under 100% of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) treatment (control) while decreased gradually with the reduction of RDF in the subsequent treatments. However, the soil organic carbon content was recorded maximum in the treatment having 100% organic recycling (T4) (2.19 times higher than the control). Besides, the treatment consisting of 25-50% organic recycling (T2 and T3) also had significantly higher organic carbon content in the soil. The available micronutrient content (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu) in the soil was also recorded maximum in 100% RDF treatment (control) with minimum in 100% organic recycling (T4) treatment (14.58, 0.51, 6.69 and 0.95 mg kg-1 soil, respectively). The nut yield was recorded maximum in 100% organic recycling (T4) treatment (5067 nuts ha-1) with non-significant difference in 50% of RDF + 50% N through organic recycling (T3) and 75% of RDF + 25% N through organic recycling (T2) treatment. Hence, it can be concluded although the 100% RDF treatment increases the available N, P and K content in the soil but the treatments with organic amendments (25-100%) are most suitable for sustainable production as all these treatments increased the soil organic carbon content significantly.