Enhancing Lentil Growth and Yield through Sustainable Foliar Applications

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the impact of various foliar applications on growth and yield of lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.). Lentil, a vital staple food, is rich in vitamin A, fiber, potassium, vitamin B, and iron. Despite being the third most produced pulse crop globally, its cultivation faces sustainability challenges, prompting the exploration of alternative systems. The present experiment was conducted in the Rabi season of 2022-23 in a randomized block design with seven treatments, including NPK, cow urine, Panchagavya, Jeevamrutha, Boron, and Vermiwash, and a control on the lentil variety Pant Lentil-09. Foliar spray was applied at specific intervals, and various growth and yield parameters were recorded. The results of the study indicated that the 10% Panchagavya treatment significantly enhanced plant height and dry matter accumulation at 60 and 90 DAS, showing 40.40% and 31.60% increases, respectively. The treatment also led to significant improvements in yield attributes. The number of pods per plant and the number of seeds per pod increased significantly, resulting in a remarkable 157.60% increase in the number of seeds per plant. Seed yield, straw yield, and biological yield were also notably greater under the 10% Panchagavya treatment, with a corresponding improvement in the harvest index. These findings align with previous studies highlighting the positive impact of organic fertilizers and micronutrients on crop growth and yield. Panchagavya, with its diverse mix of beneficial microorganisms and nutrients, has emerged as an effective foliar application for lentil crops reported first time. It is offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical-based agriculture.