A field experiment titled “Response of inorganic and organic fertilizer on growth and yield of Sesame (
Sesamum indicum L.)” was conducted at the Research Farm of the Department of Agronomy, School of Agriculture Science, Technology & Research, Sardar Patel University, Balaghat (M.P.). The study aimed to determine the optimal doses of inorganic and organic fertilizers to maximize yield and to evaluate the economic viability of different fertilization treatments. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with three replications and consisted of eight treatments, including control, organic, and inorganic fertilizers applied to Sesamum cv. Jawahar Til-12 (PKDS 12).
The results indicated that the application of both inorganic and organic fertilizers significantly improved yield compared to the control. Among the treatments, NPK @ 60:25:25 kg/ha emerged as the most effective, providing the highest yield and best economic returns. This treatment demonstrated the optimal balance of essential nutrients, leading to superior plant growth and productivity. Within the organic treatments, Vermicompost @ 5 t/ha was found to be the most effective, surpassing FYM in enhancing soil health and crop yield, although it was less economically viable compared to the inorganic options. Economic analysis highlighted that the NPK @ 60:25:25 kg/ha treatment offered the best gross return, net return, and B:C ratio, making it the most economically sound choice.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of nutrient supplementation in improving sesame yield, with inorganic fertilizers proving most effective in terms of both yield and economic returns. However, Vermicompost presents a strong organic alternative, particularly for those prioritizing sustainable agricultural practices, despite its lower economic returns.