Phosphorus and Potassium Application Improves Fodder Yield and Quality of Sorghum in Aridisol under Diverse Climatic Conditions

Abstract

Fodder yield and quality must be improved for sustainable livestock production. A lack of or low application of phosphorus (P) and potassium (P) are among the leading constraints of lower fodder yield and quality of sorghum [most cultivated fodder crop during kharif season (crop cultivation in summer and harvesting during winter] in Aridisol of Pakistan. Therefore, this two-year field study evaluated the role of different P and K levels on fodder yield and quality of sorghum cultivar ‘Ijar-2002’ planted in Multan and Okara districts, Punjab, Pakistan. Seven P-K (kg ha−1) levels, i.e., T1 (40–0), T2 (80–0), T3 (0–40), T4 (0–60), T5 (40–40), T6 (80–40), T7 (60–80) and an untreated T0 (control) were included in the study. Results indicated that individual effects of years, locations and P-K levels had a significant effect on fodder yield and quality. All treatments received an equal amount of nitrogen (i.e., 120 kg ha−1). Application of P-K in Aridisols at both locations significantly improved fodder yield, dry matter yield, and ether contents during both years. The T6 (80–40 kg ha−1) significantly improved yield and quality traits of sorghum fodder except for crude fiber (CF) and acid and neutral detergent fiber (ADF and NDF) at both locations during both years of study. Moreover, fodder harvested from Multan observed significantly higher CF, ADF, NDF, cellulose and hemicellulose contents than Okara. However, sorghum grown in Okara harvested more fodder yield due to more plant height and ether contents. In conclusion, planting sorghum in Aridisols, fertilized with 80–40 kg ha−1 P-K seemed a viable option to harvest more fodder yield of better quality.

Combined Application of Inorganic and Organic Phosphorous with Inoculation of Phosphorus Solubilizing Bacteria Improved Productivity, Grain Quality and Net Economic Returns of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum [L.] R. Br.)

“…In addition to its crucial function in metabolism, P is necessary for development, the production of nuclei, the consumption of starch and sugar, cell division and photosynthesis [17]. After nitrogen, it is rated as one of the two biggest global limiting variables for crop growth and production [18]. Since P is rapidly absorbed or fixed by free lime in some calcareous soils, P nutrition is a key limiting factor for crop productivity on such soils [19].…”

Impact of soil fertility characteristics on artificial fertility gradient approach developed using sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) in Alfisols

“…The height of fodder sorghum increased as a result of nitrogen fertilisation, as nitrogen enhance protein synthesis and consequently vegetative growth which resulted in increasing of photosynthetic rate and stimulated of further growth as stated by Mopagar et al (2023), confirming the results mentioned previously. Due to the enhanced availability of these nutrients in the soil and improved root development, P and K treatments also raised plant height and sorghum's capacity to absorb N, P, and K. In the end, this led to a greater yield (Qamar et al, 2022). These treatments also increased soil fertility, which can result in higher crop yields and higher crop quality.…”

Major soil fertility and management gaps in sorghum production in Lesotho

“…The major causes of low soil fertility are large-scale soil erosion, land degradation and poor soil management. According to (Rehman et al, 2022), application of P and K on Aridisols, significantly improved sorghum fodder yield, which is important for sustainable livestock production. A study that compared the microbial community under a legume (sun hemp) and sorghum, found out that there was higher microbial community under sorghum, which is indicative of the potentials of sorghum to improve soil fertility, if beneficial microorganisms are introduced (Eo et al, 2015).…”