Nutrient requirement of autumn sugarcane based intercropping systems

A field experiment was conducted at Sugarcane Research Farm. Ladhowal of Punjab Agricultural University during autumn 2002–03 and 2003–04 to study the nutrient (NPK) requirement of autumn sugarcane based intercropping systems. The soil of the experimental area was loam, rich in organic carbon (0.78%), medium in available phosphorous (19.0 kg P₂O₅/ha), high in available potassium (510 kg K₂O/ha), EC 0.30 rnmhos/cm and pH 8.6. Twelve treatment combinations consisting of four cropping systems i.e. sugarcane + potato (1:1), wheat (1:2), raya (1:2) and cabbage (1:1), each supplied with three NPK levels i.e. 75, 100 and 125 per cent were replicated three times in a randomized block design. 100 percent dose was 312.5: 40: 87.5, 287.5: 30: 30. 275: 20: 0 and 287.5: 30: 30 kg/ha of NPK for intercropping system of sugarcane with potato, wheat, raya and cabbage, respectively. In terms of cane yield, intercropping system of sugarcane with potato, raya and cabbage responded upto 75 percent while sugarcane and wheat intercropping system upto 100 percent of recommended dose of NPK. In economic terms, sugarcane + cabbage supplied with 100 percent NPK gave maximum net returns (Rs. 48, 878/ha). However, cane + raya supplied with 100 percent NPK recorded highest (0.82) B: C ratio.