Nutrient uptake pattern and fertilizer response of high-yielding finger millet genotypes

Abstract:

A single hectare of finger millet can extract over 80 kg of potassium from the soil — yet most fertiliser recommendations for this crop ignore genotypic differences in nutrient demand. This research compared the nutrient uptake pattern and fertiliser response of four finger millet genotypes (GPU 28, GPU 67, KMR 204, VR 847) under four fertiliser levels (0, 50, 100, 150% of recommended dose) at Bundelkhand University of Agricultural Sciences, Jhansi, during Kharif 2021. GPU 67 recorded the highest grain yield (34.7 q/ha at 100% RDF), nitrogen uptake (74.8 kg/ha), and agronomic efficiency (12.3 kg grain/kg nutrient). KMR 204 was least responsive, with a flat yield curve beyond 50% RDF. Potassium uptake exceeded nitrogen uptake in all genotypes, confirming the crop's characteristically high K demand. Nutrient use efficiency declined at 150% RDF across all genotypes, indicating diminishing returns from over-fertilisation. GPU 67 appears best suited for intensive management, while KMR 204 may fit low-input systems where fertiliser cost is a constraint.