Efficient use of energy inputs in rainfed pearl millet

Joshi, N.L. (1989) Efficient use of energy inputs in rainfed pearl millet. Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment, 25 (2-3). pp. 91-102.

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Abstract

Results of 4 field trials to determine relationships between various energy inputs to and output from pearl millet [Pennisetum americanum] are summarized. Application of 40 kg N/ha with one manual weeding involving a total energy input of 8034 MJ/ha resulted in 72% increase in grain production, and a total energy output of 39 817 MJ compared with 27 226 MJ/ha output without N. The N accounted for 12 591 MJ and the weeding for 21 886 MJ/ha energy output. Combined application of these resulted in complementarity of 15.5% over the effect of individual inputs. The least specific energy of 1.76 MJ/kg biomass with the highest energy output per unit input (7.45) was recorded by the application of 40 kg N/ha together with herbicide application. Energy output per unit of energy input varied with the cultivars, BJ 104 being the most efficient. Intercropping grain legumes with pearl millet increased the total crop productivity as well as the energy output. The intercrops Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Vigna aconitifolia and Vigna radiata, with only 91 MJ/ha extra energy input, resulted in additional energy output of 7938, 3810 and 2215 MJ/ha, resp. The energy output between paired and uniform row sowing with the same plant populations in a good rainfall year was similar, while in a subnormal rainfall year of paired rows gave significantly higher energy output

Item Type: Article
Author Affiliation: Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur 342003, Rajasthan, India.
Subjects: Plant Production
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry > Plant Physiology
Divisions: Millet
Depositing User: Mr B Krishnamurthy
Date Deposited: 02 Jun 2012 09:13
Last Modified: 02 Jun 2012 09:13
URI: http://eprints.icrisat.ac.in/id/eprint/6033

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