Yield maximization in Indian mustard ( Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson) through nutrient management and optimizing sowing date

In order to maximize yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. D2: II week of November) and four sub-plot treatments comprised nutrient applications (T1: RD-N40P60K40; T2: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250; T3: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn and T4: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn + Fe). Result showed that the seed germination, seedling growth and seedling vigor index were better in D1 sowing over D2 sowing under control as well treated conditions. Chlorophyll content increased with the application of sulfur, zinc and iron during both the sowings, with greater magnitude in D2 sowing. Seed yield and its contributing factors viz. days to flowering, plant height, shoot length, leaf area; primary branches per plant, number and length of siliqua were significantly and variably affected by different nutrient combinations. Application of T3 significantly enhanced the seed and biological yield (23.13 and 74.03 q ha−1) (16.35% and 20.63%) over T1, respectively, and T3 was statistically at par with T4. T3 also provided the highest benefit:cost (B:C) ratio (2.14) and net returns (₹ 38168 ha−1). Thus, sowing of Indian mustard in the month of October and application of RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn (T3) is recommended to maximize its seed yield along with higher B:C ratio and returns under semi-arid conditions of India.