Impact of Bio Fertilizer Levels and Phosphorus Nutrient Performance in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) Under Sustainable Agriculture

Abstract

The field study conducted at Departmental Research Farm, Integral University, Lucknow, evaluated the impact of biofertilizer levels and phosphorus nutrient on black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) during the Kharif seasons of 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. The application of 60 kg P2O5 ha-1 resulted in the highest chlorophyll content (2.42 mg/g), protein content (22.84%), and carbohydrate content (59.62%) in black gram. The soil pH was recorded as 7.66, electrical conductivity (EC) as 0.26 dSm-1, and organic carbon (OC) as 0.39%, indicating favourable soil conditions. Significant increases were also observed in nitrogen (124.8), phosphorus (19.13) and potassium (285.76) levels (as kg per hectare) due to different treatments across both years. The biofertilizer levels with 60 kg P2O5 ha-1, recorded maximum grain and straw yields, biological yield, and harvest index. It also resulted in higher gross returns, net returns, and benefit-cost ratio treatment T15 followed closely in performance. The study underscores the effectiveness of combining adequate phosphorus fertilization (specifically 60 kg P2O5 ha-1) with appropriate biofertilizer levels (especially PSB + Rhizobium) for maximizing yield and economic returns in black gram cultivation under sustainable agriculture practices. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing nutrient management strategies in similar agricultural contexts.