Linseed response to nutrient management: A review

Linum usitatissimum L., commonly known as linseed or flax, is an economically important oilseed crop valued for its dual-purpose utility: the oil, renowned for its high omega-3 fatty acid content and the fiber, widely utilized in diverse industrial applications. Despite India's considerable area under linseed cultivation, productivity remains below global averages, largely due to suboptimal nutrient management practices. Studies highlight the critical role of nutrient management in improving growth parameters, yield attributes and quality traits of linseed. Integration of 75% RDF and 2.5 tonnes vermicompost ha⁻¹ resulted in the highest plant height, leaf area index, and primary branches, while 100% RDF combined with 30 kg S ha⁻¹ or bio-inoculants (Azotobacter and PSB) enhanced growth, seed yield and stover yield. Foliar applications of nano-N (0.4%) and urea (2%) further boosted growth rates and nutrient use efficiency. Nutrient management practices like 75% NPK + 5 t FYM + biofertilizers demonstrated superior productivity, highlighting the synergy between organic and inorganic inputs. Oil yield and quality traits were maximized with 100% RDN supplemented by FYM, sulfur, and zinc, enhancing protein and oil content. Incremental nitrogen levels improved fiber and oil yields but reduced total unsaturated fatty acids beyond 45 kg N ha⁻¹. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between seed yield and growth parameters such as plant height, branches, capsules, and test weight. This review underscores the necessity of adopting balanced nutrient management strategies, including integrated nutrient management (INM), to bridge the yield gap, enhance productivity, and maintain soil health. Optimized practices, such as the application of RDF with biofertilizers and organic inputs, hold potential for sustainable linseed production in India.