Abstract

Investigation was carried out at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute. Aduthurai from June 1995 to February 1997 to evaluate the efficient N management practices for direct seeded rice raised under irrigated lowland condition. The experiments were carried out both in Kuruvai and thaladi seasons of 1995-96 and 1996-'97. The experiment I consisted of three methods of sowing viz.. transplanting, sowing sprouted seeds in lines manually and using seed drum as main plot treatments and eight N management practices in the sub plots. The experiment II consisted of the same main plot treatments with modified N management practices based on the results of the first experiment. Eventhough the seeding methods had no significant differences among them, the drum seeding recorded numerically higher grain yield and net return than manual sowing and transplanting leading to reduction in crop duration by one week. Application of neem cake blended urea and placement of urea solution at 100 percent recommended N level favourably influenced the growth and yield components. These treatments recorded significantly higher grain and straw yields than conventional split application. Application of 75 per cent recommended N as placement of urea solution and as gypsum and neem cake blended urea gave comparable effect with improved split application of 100 per cent recommended N and integrated application of green manure and urea each supplying 50 percent recommended N in respect of grain yields of rice. These treatments also showed increased net return and return per rupee invested compared to conventional split application of prilled urea.

Keywords: Seeding methods, Drum seeder. Liquid urea applicator. Gypsum, Neem cake. Green manure.