To investigate the enactment of farm yard manure, vermicompost and synthetic fertilizers on Lens culinaris L. at Doon Valley, Uttarakhand

Abstract

Lentil (Lens culinaris L.), a nutrient-dense legume, plays a vital role in sustainable agriculture due to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. However, the overreliance on chemical fertilizers in modern farming has led to ecological and soil health concerns. To evaluate more sustainable nutrient strategies, a field experiment was conducted during the 2024-25 rabi season at Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, Dehradun, employing a randomized block design with ten nutrient management treatments replicated thrice. The study aimed to assess the impact of different combinations of recommended doses of fertilizers (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM), and vermicompost (VC) on the growth and yield of Pant Lentil 9. The results revealed that integrated treatments, particularly T9 (50% RDF + FYM 10 t/ha + VC 2 t/ha), significantly enhanced plant height, branching, pod development, and root nodulation. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant influence of treatments on all growth parameters, whereas replication effects were negligible. The findings highlight the superiority of integrated nutrient management in improving lentil performance while promoting ecological sustainability.