Nitrogen and Phosphorus Combination Effect on Growth and Yields of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) is a vital cereal crop in India, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, due to its resilience to drought and low soil fertility. This study investigates the combined effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilization on the growth and yield of pearl millet. A field experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, during the kharif season of 2024, employing a randomized block design with ten fertilizer treatments replicated three times. The treatments included varying levels of nitrogen (50, 75, and 100 kg/ha) and phosphorus (50, 75, and 100 kg/ha), while potassium (100 kg/ha) was held constant. The results demonstrated that increasing levels of nitrogen and phosphorus significantly improved plant height, leaf count, SPAD value, dry weight, panicle length, and grain yield. The highest yield (1,800 kg/ha) and straw yield (5,111 kg/ha) were recorded in the N100+P100+K100 treatment, while the lowest yield was observed in the control (1,199 kg/ha). These findings highlight the importance of balanced N and P fertilization in optimizing pearl millet productivity. The study offers valuable input in nutrient management strategies for increasing millet yield and sustainability in Punjab’s agroecological conditions.