EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF MOLYBDENUM AND RHIZOBIUM PHASEOLI IN RICE-MUNG BEAN CROPPING SYSTEM

Abstract

Ignorance of trace elements (iron, cobalt and molybdenum etc.) may result in reduced crop yield. Leguminous crops are very sensitive towards molybdenum (Mo) deficiency, but excessive Mo may also impair the growth, decrease biomass, seed yield and quality of produce. Many scientists had documented information regarding sole inoculation of combined Rhizobium and effects of Mo, however, limited information is available on combined use of Mo and Rhizobium inoculation on mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) productivity. Therefore, current study was conducted for assessing the effects of Rhizobium with Mo supply on yield attributes and N-2-fixation in V radiata. There were 2 levels of Rhizobium inoculations (with and without rhizobia) and 5 levels of Mo (0, 3, 4, 5 and 6 g kg(-1) seed) applied during 2015 and 2016 cropping seasons for cultivation of V radiata. Results showed that at maturity plant height, pod bearing branches/plant, nodules and pods/plant, seeds/pod, pod length, 1000-grain weigh, seed yield and protein were significantly increased 25.4, 80.7, 109.3, 22.3, 49.4, 43.3, 23.6, 96.9 and 18.9 % respectively, where Mo (4 g/kg) + R. phaseoli was applied as compared to control. In conclusion, combined use of Mo and Rhizobium have potential to enhance productivity and quality of mung bean.