Abstract

Field experiment was carried out at wetland of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during Kharif 2008. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications to evaluate the stand establishment techniques and nutrient management practices in wet seeded lowland rice. The treatments consisting of two establishment techniques (Direct planting system and drum seeding) and four levels of nutrient management practices (control, RDF, RDF+FYM and RDF+FYM+Biofertilizers). Direct planting system recorded higher yield components and grain yield compared to drum seeding method of crop establishment. Application of recommended dose of fertilizers (150:50:50 NPK kg ha -1 ), FYM 12.5 t ha -1 and biofertilizers (Azosphosmet @ 2 kg ha -1 ) + PPFM (pink pigmented facultative methylotroph) @ 5 L ha -1 enhanced the grain yield over no manure treatment under Direct Planting System when compared with drum seeding method. The net income and B:C were higher under DPS than drum seeding method due to higher grain yield.

Keywords: Direct Planting System, Drum seeding, Rice, Nutrient management