Enhancing Productivity of Blackgram through Nano Urea-Based Nutrient Management under Rainfed Conditions

Abstract

Pulses are an essential source of dietary protein, vitamins, minerals, and fibre, contributing significantly to nutritional security, particularly in vegetarian diets. Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.), one of the most important pulse crops in India, plays a vital role in food and nutritional security but its productivity is constrained by nutrient limitations, especially under rainfed conditions. However, information on optimal combinations of basal nitrogen and nano urea application timings for blackgram under rainfed conditions is still scarce. Efficient nutrient management, particularly through foliar application, is vital for sustaining growth and yield. To evaluate the effect of nano urea on blackgram, a field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural College and Research Institute, Kudumiyanmalai, Tamil Nadu, using blackgram variety CO 8. The study was laid out in a randomized block design with seven treatments involving different combinations of basal nitrogen and foliar sprays of nano urea at 30 and 45 days after sowing (DAS). Results revealed that 75% basal application of nitrogen along with foliar spray of nano urea at 30 and 45 DAS (T6) significantly improved plant height, dry matter production, leaf area index, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, and 100-seed weight. This treatment also recorded the highest grain yield (860 kg ha⁻¹), which was superior to the recommended dose of fertilizer alone. The findings emphasize the potential of nano urea in enhancing yield attributes and grain yield, thereby offering a sustainable strategy for blackgram production under rainfed conditions. These findings not only offer a sustainable strategy for blackgram production but also support efforts to reduce conventional fertilizer use and enhance national food and nutritional security.