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Fertilizer Dose in Mustard Crop
Mustard is an important cash crop in India, grown primarily for its oilseed and leaves. It requires proper nutrient management to achieve high yields. Fertilizers are an essential component of modern agriculture and play a critical role in enhancing crop productivity and profitability.
Here are some guidelines for fertilizer dose in mustard crop:
Soil Analysis:
Before applying fertilizers, it is essential to analyze the soil and determine its nutrient status. Soil analysis helps in identifying the nutrients that are deficient or excessive in the soil, which enables precise fertilizer application. Based on the findings, farmers can select the appropriate fertilizer type and quantity.
Nitrogen:
Nitrogen is crucial for the growth and development of the mustard crop. It enhances vegetative growth, leaf area, and chlorophyll production. Mustard requires approximately 50-60 kg/ha of nitrogen for optimum growth and yield. Farmers can apply nitrogen as urea, ammonium nitrate, or ammonium sulfate.
Phosphorus:
Phosphorus is critical for root development, photosynthesis, and energy transfer in the plant. Mustard requires approximately 30-40 kg/ha of phosphorus. Farmers can apply phosphorus as single superphosphate, triple superphosphate, or rock phosphate.
Potassium:
Potassium is essential for the formation of flower buds, fruit development, and water regulation in plants. Mustard requires approximately 30-40 kg/ha of potassium. Farmers can apply potassium as muriate of potash, sulfate of potash, or potassium chloride.
Secondary Nutrients and Micro-nutrients:
Apart from the major nutrients, mustard also requires various secondary nutrients and micronutrients for optimal growth and yield. These include sulfur, magnesium, calcium, boron, zinc, iron, manganese, and copper. Farmers can apply these nutrients as foliar sprays or as soil amendments.
Fertilizer Application:
For optimal fertilizer use, farmers can apply 50% of the total recommended nitrogen, all of the phosphorus, and potassium at the time of sowing. The remaining nitrogen can be split and applied in two equal doses at the 3-4 leaf and early flowering stage. Micronutrients can be applied according to the crop stage or as soil amendments.
Conclusion:
Fertilizer dose is essential for the mustard crop’s optimal growth and yield. Soil analysis should be the first step before fertilizer application. Mustard requires nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and various secondary nutrients and micronutrients. Farmers should apply fertilizers as per crop stage and recommend dose for optimal results. Proper fertilizer use will increase mustard crop productivity and profitability.