Effect of foliar spray of N, P, K fertilizers on nutrient content and uptake in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Abstract

A field experiment was carried out during the Kharif season of 2024 at the Research Farm of Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, on loamy sand soil. The study involved eleven fertilizer treatments with varying combinations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), including: a control; recommended dose of NPK (60:40:20 kg ha⁻¹) applied in two equal splits; and several combinations involving 50%, 75%, and 100% N applied either as basal, top dressing, or foliar sprays using NPK (18:18:18) at concentrations of 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% at 35 days after sowing (DAS). The experiment was designed using a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The results demonstrated that the treatment receiving 100% N (in two equal splits) along with a 2% foliar spray of NPK (18:18:18) at 35 DAS significantly enhanced the nutrient content and uptake of N, P, and K in both the grain and straw of pearl millet compared to other treatments.