Effect of Nitrogen and Sulphur Fertilisation on Growth, Yield, and Economics of Late-Sown Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under Central India Conditions

Abstract

Rapeseed and mustard are the world's third most significant oilseed crops, accounting for 28.6% of total oilseed crop production. Indian mustard, a key winter oilseed crop, is the second most significant edible oilseed in India, contributing 27.8% to the nation's oilseed economy, after soybean, and ranks third in global rapeseed-mustard production. The study investigated the impact of nitrogen and sulphur levels on the growth, yield, and economic performance of late-sown Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. The experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024-25 at the School of Agriculture, Sanjeev Agrawal Global Educational (SAGE) University, Bhopal. Eight treatment combinations were tested, with nitrogen levels (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg ha⁻¹) and sulphur levels (0 and 20 kg ha⁻¹). The results showed that both nitrogen and sulphur significantly influenced growth parameters, such as plant height, number of branches, and plant population. The combined application of 120 kg N ha⁻¹ and 20 kg S ha⁻¹ was the most effective in enhancing all observed parameters. Regression analysis indicated the optimum nitrogen requirement for mustard to be 122.96 kg ha-1, producing an estimated grain response of 424.90 kg grain kg N-1 and 14.10 kg grain kg S-1. The study also highlighted the importance of balanced nutrient management in optimising nitrogen and sulphur use efficiency, improving economic returns, and maintaining soil health. The treatment resulted in the highest seed yield, straw yield, and net returns, with the best benefit-cost ratio. Soil analysis post-harvest revealed improved residual fertility in plots receiving higher doses of nitrogen and sulphur. Overall, the study concluded that the individual application of 20 kg S ha-1 and 120 kg N ha-1 significantly enhanced the yield and profitability of mustard cultivation, confirming their agronomic and economic importance.