Exploring the Effects of Integrated Nitrogen Nutrition on Boro Rice Growth and Yield: A Sustainable Approach

Abstract

This study evaluates the impact of integrated nitrogen nutrition on the growth, yield, and nitrogen use efficiency of boro rice (Oryza sativa). Four rice cultivars (BRRI dhan29, BRRI dhan59, BRRI dhan28, and Binadhan-10) were tested under six nitrogen treatments, including prilled urea (PU), urea super granules (USG), and combinations of PU with organic amendments (poultry manure, cowdung, and vermicompost). The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Significant variations in growth and yield parameters were observed among cultivars and nitrogen treatments. Binadhan-10 (V4) exhibited superior growth, with the highest plant height (90.62 cm), total tillers per hill (10.46), and grain yield (4.999 t ha⁻¹). Among nitrogen sources, the combination of 105 kg N ha⁻¹ from PU + 3 t ha⁻¹ poultry manure (N4) resulted in the highest grain yield (5.85 t ha⁻¹), straw yield (6.21 t ha⁻¹), and biological yield (12.07 t ha⁻¹). The interaction between Binadhan-10 and N4 produced the highest combined grain (6.03 t ha⁻¹) and straw yield (6.33 t ha⁻¹), as well as the highest biological yield (12.36 t ha⁻¹). Integrated nutrient management significantly improved nitrogen use efficiency compared to conventional prilled urea alone, with reductions in nitrogen loss and enhanced yield attributes. This research highlights the potential of integrated nutrient management, combining organic and inorganic fertilizers, to optimize rice yield, improve nitrogen efficiency, and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.