Nutrient alchemy: Optimizing multicut fodder sorghum for yield, quality and environmental balance

This study delves into the transformative impact of diverse nutrient management practices on the yield, quality, soil health and carbon sequestration potential of multi-cut fodder sorghum. Employing a randomized block design with three replications across 11 treatments, the research evaluated the effects of organic, inorganic and biofertilizer-based nutrient applications. The findings were striking: a combination of poultry manure at 75 % nitrogen equivalent with biofertilizers (Arbuscular mycorrhiza and Azophos) led to a remarkable 31.2 % boost in fodder yield and a 36.4 % increase in dry matter production compared to the control. Soil analysis revealed an 8.22 % decrease in pH, alongside substantial enhancements in key nutrients, with available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels soaring by 28.40 %, 44.19 % and 9.43 % respectively, under the same treatment. These practices also supercharged soil enzyme activities, with notable increases in amylase (1.21 mg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), invertase (1.45 mg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), cellulase (34.8 µg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), phosphatase (19.73 µg phenols g-1 soil 24 h-1), dehydrogenase (11.56 µg triphenyl formazan g-1 soil 24 h-1) and urease (17.92 mg NH4 - N g-1 soil 24 h-1), signaling a vibrant uptick in microbial activity and overall soil health. Moreover, this nutrient strategy delivered a 39.22 % rise in soil organic carbon (SOC) and a 38.74 % boost in soil carbon stock, highlighting its powerful potential for long-term carbon sequestration. This study offers critical insights for crafting sustainable agricultural practices that not only maximize crop production but also enhance soil fertility and contribute meaningfully to environmental conservation.