Enhancing leaf area index and dry matter production in rice through enriched bio-digested bone sludge compost
G Sivakumar and S Sheik Shalik
Rice cultivation, pivotal for global food security, faces multifaceted challenges including declining soil health, nutrient depletion, and environmental pollution. Addressing these challenges requires innovative strategies to ensure sustainable agricultural practices. This study investigates the impact of enriched bio-digested bone sludge compost on leaf area index (LAI) and dry matter production (DMP) in rice cultivation. Conducted at Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India in 2022, the research aims to address these pressing issues by evaluating the efficacy of incorporating bio-digested bone sludge compost alongside other organic and inorganic fertilizers. Employing a randomized block design with three replications across eight treatments, the experiment seeks to fill existing gaps in knowledge regarding the potential of organic soil amendments in enhancing rice yield and preserving soil health. Results reveal that the application of enriched bio-digested bone sludge compost significantly enhances both LAI and DMP compared to other treatments, fostering robust vegetative growth and biomass accumulation. Notably, the combination of bone sludge compost @ 5 t/ha + Pressmud compost @ 5 t/ha, along with balanced N and K through fertilizers, exhibits superior performance in LAI and DMP. This study underscores the potential of enriched bio-digested bone sludge compost as a sustainable approach to maximize rice yield, offering valuable insights into environmentally friendly farming practices. In conclusion, the findings highlight the importance of incorporating organic soil amendments, particularly bio-digested bone sludge compost, in rice cultivation to optimize leaf area index and dry matter production. This research contributes to the advancement of sustainable agricultural practices, emphasizing the significance of integrating organic fertilizers into farming systems to enhance crop productivity while preserving soil health and environmental integrity.
G Sivakumar, S Sheik Shalik. Enhancing leaf area index and dry matter production in rice through enriched bio-digested bone sludge compost. Int J Res Agron 2024;7(7S):363-366. DOI: 10.33545/2618060X.2024.v7.i7Se.1054