Productivity, Profitability and Soil Health of Gobhi Sarson (Brassica napus L.) as Influenced by Organic Nutrition and Planting Geometry

The optimization of agronomy for oilseed crops is crucial for achieving sustainable productivity and effective weed management, particularly in organic agriculture. This three-year study evaluated the impact of organic nutrients and planting geometry on the productivity, profitability, and soil health of gobhi sarson (Brassica napus L.). The application of 10 t/ha of farmyard manure (FYM) as a basal dose, combined with a top dressing of 1 t/ha FYM at the first irrigation (30 DAS), resulted in a 8.54% and 5.36% higher seed yield compared to treatments with only basal FYM (10 t/ha) and foliar application of 1% seaweed extract at 50, 65, and 80 DAS, respectively. Altering planting geometry did not significantly affect seed yield, though wider row spacing facilitated mechanical weeding. Furthermore, soil organic carbon (SOC) and available nitrogen (N) were significantly enhanced in plots receiving the additional FYM at first irrigation. A significant increase in soil microflora, including bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes, was observed in all manorial treatments compared to the control. These results highlight the crucial role of organic interventions in enhancing soil health and boosting the productivity of gobhi sarson in organic farming systems.