Effect of Lime, Inorganic, and Organic Sources on Soil Fertility, Yield, Quality, and Nutrient Uptake of Sweet Potato in Alfisols

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted in Alfisols to study the effect of integrated use of lime, inorganic, and organic manures on soil health and sweet potato performance. Integrated use of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and farmyard manure recorded a significantly higher tuber yield (18.7 Mg ha−1) followed by lime + farmyard manure + neem cake + green manure (17.7 Mg ha−1). Incorporation of organics and 100% nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium showed a yield response of 23%, 2%, and 10% in respect of farmyard manure, neem cake, and green manure over nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A yield response of 12%, 10%, and 13% was observed due to incorporation of lime along with ½ nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium and organics (farmyard manure, neem cake, and green manure) over that of unlimed plots. Conjunctive use of organic manures along with balanced fertilizers and lime not only produces higher crop yields but also enhanced the efficiency of added nutrients and sustains the soil fertility.