Influence of temporal variation in sowing and organic mulch application on sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata) in spring season in sub-tropical North India

Abstract

Field experiment was conducted at G.B.P.U.A. & T., Pantnagar during spring season 2017 to study the effect of different sowing dates and time of application of rice straw mulch on yield and economics of sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata). The experiment consisted of 12 treatments; having 4 sowing dates (8th, 18th, 28th February and 10th March) and 3 levels of mulch application (no mulch, mulch application after 2nd and 3rd irrigation) was conducted in SPD. Sowing dates were accommodated in main plots and mulch treatments in sub plots. Crop sown on the earliest date being at par with next date resulted in significantly more growth, dehusked cob yield (11427 kg/ha), net return (Rs. 110361 /ha) and B:C (1.80) than other sowing dates. Application of rice straw mulch after 2nd and 3rd irrigation being at par with other resulted into better growth and produced significantly more dehusked cob yield (11128 kg/ha) and production efficiency than no mulch. Mulch application after 2nd and 3rd irrigation were at par for net return and B:C and were significantly superior to no mulch.