Impact of integrated phosphorus management using prom and PSB on nutrient uptake, seed quality and economics of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) walp.]

Abstract:

Efficient phosphorus management plays a vital role in improving nutrient use efficiency, crop quality, and profitability in legume production systems. A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2025 at the Agronomy Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Vivekananda Global University, Jagatpura, Jaipur (Rajasthan), to assess the effect of integrated phosphorus management on nutrient uptake, seed quality, and economic returns of cowpea. The experiment comprised eight treatments involving different combinations of DAP, Phosphate Rich Organic Manure (PROM), and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) arranged in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. The integrated application of 50% recommended phosphorus through DAP + 50% through PROM along with PSB (T₈) significantly enhanced nitrogen and phosphorus uptake by seed and straw, increased protein content, and produced the highest gross return (₹1,09,333.77 ha⁻¹), net return (₹70,121.77 ha⁻¹), and benefit-cost ratio (1.78). The treatment also improved nutrient use efficiency and maintained superior crop performance compared with sole chemical phosphorus application and the control. The results suggest that partial substitution of chemical phosphorus fertilizer with PROM combined with PSB offers an economically viable and environmentally sustainable approach for cowpea cultivation. Adoption of this integrated nutrient management practice can improve seed quality, enhance farm profitability, and promote long-term soil fertility under the agro-climatic conditions of Rajasthan.