Chapter-IV

EXPERIMENTAL FINDINGS
The experimental data of present investigation entitled “Effect of
nitrogen and herbicides on weed flora, yield and economics of wheat
(Triticum aestivum L.)” was conducted during Rabi seasons of 2017-18 at the
Agronomy Research Farm, Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and
Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Ayodhya (U.P.). In this chapter an
attempt has been made to ascertain the influence of the various treatments on
growth, development and yield of wheat.
The various observations recorded on the crop and weeds were analyzed
statistically to assess the degree of variance due to nitrogen levels and
herbicides. The pattern of crop behavior under various treatments is illustrated
by the use of tables with suitable figure included at appropriate places. The
salient results obtained are presented in the following heads:

4.1 Studies on weeds

4.2 Studies on crop
4.3 Economics

4.1 Studies on weeds

4.1.1 Weed density (number m-2)
The data pertaining to the density of different weed species, as influenced
by various treatments recorded at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest given in Table
4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and 4.4 and depicted in Fig 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and 4.4, respectively.
The dominant weed flora of the experimental area were Phalaris minor,
Chenopodium album, Anagallis arvensis, Mililotus alba, Convolvulas arvensis
etc. these weed flora were common in each plot. Among the different weed flora,
 Experimental Findings

pre dominancy of Phalaris minor, Chenopodium album was recorded in all the
treatments in addition to other weeds.
The overall effect of nitrogen levels on weed density of all species have
been detailed in Table 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 and illustrated in Fig. 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and
4.4 at various crop growth stages. Data pertaining to weed density clearly
reveals that it increases with increasing dose of nitrogen at 30, 60, 90 DAS and
at harvest, as well as. Application of 80 Kg N ha-1 (N3) resulted significantly less
density of weed species and total weeds as compared to 120 (N2) and 160 (N1)
Kg N ha-1 at all stages of crop during the course of investigation.
Application of W1 (pendimethalin @ 1 kg ha-1) as pre-emergence
herbicide showed significant effect on weed species counted at 30 DAS. The
maximum weed density was noticed under W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1)
and minimum in W1 (pendimethalin @ 1 kg ha-1) which was significantly
superior over both herbicides. However, data summarized in Table 4.2, 4.3, 4.4
reveal that application of post-emergence herbicides at 30 days stage showed
significant effect on weed density at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest. Significantly
minimum weed density recorded with application of (Clodinafop + metsulfuron
@0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) in compression to (pendimethalin @ 1 kg ha-1) and
(sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) herbicides. While (pendimethalin @ 1 kg ha-1)
and (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) treatments being at par among them.

47
 Experimental Findings

Table 4.1: Weed species (number m-2) at 30 DAS as affected by nitrogen levels and herbicides in wheat

Phalaris Mililotus Chenopodium Rumex Anagallis Convolvulas

Treatment Coronopus Other Total
minor alba album spp. arvensis arvensis
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1
4.10 3.20 4.82 3.19 3.28 3.07 1.46 3.02 9.34
(16.33) (9.80) (22.87) (8.49) (10.29) (8.98) (1.63) (8.66) (87.06)
N2-120 kg N ha-1 4.41 3.44 5.19 3.22 3.52 3.30 1.55 3.25 10.07
(19.00) (11.40) (26.60) (9.88) (11.97) (10.45) (1.90) (10.07) (101.27)
N3-160 kg N ha-1 4.62 3.61 5.45 3.37 3.70 3.46 1.61 3.40 10.58
(21.00) (12.60) (29.40) (10.92) (13.23) (11.55) (2.10) (11.13) (111.93)
SEm± 0.08 0.06 0.11 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.02 0.06 0.20
CD at 5 % 0.22 0.20 0.33 0.19 0.20 0.19 0.82 0.81 0.61
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D 4.13 3.24 4.87 3.02 3.31 3.10 1.47 3.05 9.44
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (16.67) (10.00) (23.33) (8.67) (10.50) (9.17) (1.67) (8.83) (88.83)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 4.37 3.41 5.15 3.19 3.49 3.27 1.54 3.22 9.97
(@0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (18.67) (11.20) (26.13) (9.71) (11.76) (10.27) (1.87) (9.89) (99.49)
W3-Sulfosulfuron 4.62 3.61 5.45 3.37 3.70 3.46 1.61 3.40 10.57
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) (21.00) (12.60) (29.40) (10.92) (13.23) (11.55) (2.10) (11.13) (111.93)
SEm± 0.08 0.06 0.11 0.06 0.06 0.06 0.02 0.06 0.20
CD at 5 % 0.22 0.20 0.33 0.19 0.20 0.19 0.82 0.81 0.61

*Data subjected to square root (√𝑥 + 0.5) transformation and original data presented in parenthesis

48
 Experimental Findings

Table 4.2: Weed species (number m-2) at 60 DAS as affected by nitrogen levels and herbicides in wheat
Phalaris Mililotus Chenopodium Rumex Anagallis Convolvulas
Treatment Coronopus Other Total
minor alba album spp. arvensis arvensis
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 1.93 1.56 2.24 1.48 1.59 1.51 0.91 1.49 4.20
(3.33) (2.00) (4.67) (1.73) (2.10) (1.83) (0.33) (1.77) (17.77)
N2-120 kg N ha-1 2.59 2.06 3.03 1.93 2.10 1.98 1.06 1.95 5.79
(6.33) (3.80) (8.87) (3.29) (3.99) (3.48) (0.63) (3.36) (33.76)
N3-160 kg N ha-1 3.26 2.57 3.48 2.41 2.63 2.47 1.23 2.43 7.39
(10.33) (6.20) (14.47) (5.37) (6.51) (5.68) (1.03) (5.48) (55.08)
SEm± 0.05 0.004 0.06 0.03 0.004 0.03 0.01 0.03 0.11
CD at 5 % 0.16 0.11 0.18 0.10 0.12 0.10 0.03 0.11 0.35
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D 2.82 2.23 3.31 2.09 2.28 2.15 1.12 2.11 6.34
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (7.76) (4.60) (10.73) (3.99) (4.83) (4.22) (0.77) (4.06) (40.86)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 2.15 1.72 2.50 1.63 1.76 1.66 0.96 1.64 4.71
(@0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (4.33) (2.60) (6.07) (2.25) (2.73) (2.38) (0.43) (2.30) (23.10)
W3-Sulfosulfuron 2.82 2.23 3.30 2.09 2.28 2.15 1.13 2.11 6.32
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) (8.00) (4.80) (11.20) (4.16) (5.04) (4.40) (0.80) (4.24) (42.64)
SEm± 0.05 0.004 0.06 0.03 0.004 0.03 0.01 0.03 0.11
CD at 5 % 0.16 0.11 0.18 0.10 0.12 0.10 0.03 0.11 0.35

*Data subjected to square root (√𝑥 + 0.5) transformation and original data presented in parenthesis

49
 Experimental Findings

Table 4.3: Weed species (number m-2) at 90 DAS as affected by nitrogen levels and herbicides in wheat
Phalaris Mililotus Chenopodium Rumex Anagallis Convolvulas
Treatment Coronopus Other Total
minor alba album spp. arvensis arvensis
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 2.01 1.62 2.34 1.52 1.66 1.56 0.92 1.54 4.39
(3.67) (2.20) (5.13) (1.87) (2.33) (2.00) (0.36) (1.93) (19.49)
N2-120 kg N ha-1 2.71 2.14 3.17 2.20 2.19 2.60 1.09 2.02 6.06
(6.97) (4.17) (9.73) (3.63) (4.37) (3.80) (0.69) (3.67) (37.20)
N3-160 kg N ha-1
3.42 2.68 4.20 2.51 2.74 2.57 1.27 2.54 7.74
(11.37) (6.80) (15.90) (5.90) (7.13) (6.20) (1.13) (6.03) (60.47)
SEm± 0.05 0.03 0.06 0.03 0.004 0.004 0.01 0.03 0.12
CD at 5 % 0.15 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.12 0.12 0.004 0.11 0.37
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D 2.95 2.32 3.46 2.18 2.38 2.23 1.15 2.20 6.64
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (8.43) (5.03) (11.80) (4.37) (5.30) (4.60) (0.84) (4.47) (44.84)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 2.24 1.79 2.61 1.68 1.83 1.72 0.97 1.71 4.93
(@0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (4.77) (2.83) (6.67) (2.47) (3.00) (2.60) (0.47) (2.53) (25.33)
W3-Sulfosulfuron 2.95 2.33 3.45 2.18 2.38 2.23 1.16 2.19 6.62
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) (8.80) (5.30) (12.30) (4.57) (5.53) (4.80) (0.88) (4.63) (46.81)
SEm± 0.05 0.03 0.06 0.03 0.004 0.004 0.01 0.03 0.12
CD at 5 % 0.15 0.11 0.11 0.11 0.12 0.12 0.004 0.11 0.37

*Data subjected to square root (√𝑥 + 0.5) transformation and original data presented in parenthesis

50
 Experimental Findings

Table 4.4: Weed species (number m-2) at harvest as affected by nitrogen levels and herbicides in wheat
Phalaris Mililotus Chenopodium Rumex Coronopus Anagallis Convolvulas
Treatment Other Total
minor alba album spp. didimum arvensis arvensis
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 2.01 1.62 2.34 1.52 1.66 1.56 0.92 1.54 4.39
(3.67) (2.20) (5.13) (1.87) (2.33) (2.00) (0.36) (1.93) (19.49)
N2-120 kg N ha-1 2.71 2.14 3.17 2.02 2.19 2.06 1.09 2.02 6.60
(6.97) (4.17) (9.73) (3.63) (4.37) (3.80) (0.69) (3.67) (37.20)
N3-160 kg N ha-1 3.42 2.68 4.02 2.51 2.74 2.57 1.27 2.54 7.74
(11.37) (6.80) (15.90) (5.90) (7.13) (6.20) (1.13) (6.03) (60.47)
SEm± 0.05 0.004 0.07 0.004 0.004 0.03 0.01 0.03 0.12
CD at 5 % 0.15 0.12 0.19 0.12 0.12 0.10 0.004 0.11 0.37
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D 2.95 2.33 3.46 2.18 2.38 2.23 1.15 2.20 6.64
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (8.43) (5.03) (11.80) (4.37) (5.30) (4.60) (0.84) (4.47) (44.84)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 2.24 1.79 2.61 1.69 1.83 1.72 0.97 1.71 4.93
(@0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (4.77) (2.83) (6.67) (2.47) (3.00) (2.60) (0.47) (2.53) (25.33)
W3-Sulfosulfuron 2.95 2.33 3.45 2.18 2.38 2.23 1.61 2.19 6.62
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) (8.80) (5.30) (12.30) (4.57) (5.53) (4.80) (0.88) (4.63) (46.81)
SEm± 0.05 0.0040 0.06 0.004 0.004 0.03 0.01 0.03 0.12
CD at 5 % 0.16 0.12 0.19 0.11 0.12 0.11 0.004 0.11 0.37

*Data subjected to square root (√𝑥 + 0.5) transformation and original data presented in parenthesis

51
 Experimental Findings

4.1.2 Weed dry weight (g m-2)

The data on dry matter accumulation of weeds at successive stages of crop

growth are summarized in Table 4.5 and illustrated in Fig. 4.5. Dry matter
accumulation of weeds enhanced with increase in the age crop up to harvest
stage. The data of dry matter accumulation of weeds increased significantly with
increase in the dose of nitrogen up to 160 Kg N ha-1. Maximum weed dry weight
was found under treatment N3 (160 Kg N ha-1) which was significant as compare
to lower dose of nitrogen N1 (80 Kg N ha-1). However, the weed dry weight was
significantly lower under lower rate of nitrogen N1 (80 Kg N ha-1) and N2 (120
Kg N ha-1) compare to N3 (160 Kg N ha-1) at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest stage,
except at 30 DAS stage.
Weed dry matter accumulation was also influenced at various crop growth
stages under the different herbicide treatments during the experimental year. In
W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) treatment, where was applied,
maximum dry matter production was recorded, whereas, the minimum dry
matter accumulation of weeds was recorded with W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron
@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) treatment at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest stage, except at
30 day stage.

Among the herbicides, minimum weed dry matter accumulation was

found under the treatment W2 (Clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004
kg ha-1) which was significantly superior over W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @
1+0.5 kg ha-1) and W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1).

52
 Experimental Findings

Table- 4.5: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on weed dry weight
(g m-2) at successive stages of wheat crop
At
Treatment 30 DAS 60 DAS 90 DAS
harvest
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 4.33 4.79 5.01 4.76
(18.28) (23.27) (25.54) (22,99)
N2-120 kg N ha-1 4.66 6.62 6.92 6.57
(21.27) (44.22) (48.50) (43,65)
N3-160 kg N ha-1 4.89 8.45 8.85 8.40
(23.51) (72.15) (79.21) (71.29)
SEm± 0.09 0.10 0.14 0.15
CD at 5 % 0.27 0.38 0.43 0.45
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D 4.37 7.25 7.59 7.20
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (18.66) (53.53) (58.74) (52.87)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 4.61 5.38 5.63 5.35
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (20.89) (30.26) (33.19) (29.87)
W3-Sulfosulfuron 4.88 7.22 7.56 7.18
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) (23.51) (55.86) (61.32) (55.19)
SEm± 0.09 0.10 0.14 0.15
CD at 5 % 0.27 0.38 0.43 0.45

4.1.3 Nitrogen uptake by weeds (kg ha-1)

A cursory view of the data embodies in Table 4.6 and illustrated in

Fig. 4.6, indicated that progressive nitrogen uptake by weeds was recorded with
increasing dose of nitrogen. Application of nitrogen @ 160 Kg ha -1 (N3)
recorded maximum nitrogen uptake by weeds at harvest stage. It was
significantly higher than all other nitrogen levels. The weeds remained in the
field throughout the growing season and uptake of nitrogen ranged to the tune
of 3.45, 6.55 and 10.71 kg ha-1 from the field where (N1) 80 Kg N ha-1, (N2)120
Kg N ha-1 and (N3) 160 Kg N ha-1 respectively.

53
 Experimental Findings

Among the herbicides, significantly lowest nitrogen uptake by weed was

recorded (4.46 Kg N ha-1) under W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004
kg ha-1) as compare to W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) and
W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) during the period of experimental
investigation.
Table-4.6: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on nitrogen uptake by
weeds (kg ha-1) of wheat

Nitrogen uptake by weeds

Treatments
(kg ha-1)
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 3.450

N2-120 kg N ha-1 6.505

N3-160 kg N ha-1 10.717

SEm± 0.195

CD at 5 % 0.586

B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)

W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
8.300
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
4.467
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1)
W3-Sulfosulfuron
7.950
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1)
Sem± 0.195

CD at 5 % 0.586

54
 Experimental Findings

4.2 Studies on crop

A. Growth parameters

4.2.1 Initial plant population (number m-2)

The data pertaining to initial plant population (number m-2) was recorded
at 20 DAS, analysed statistically and the result have been summarized in Table
4.7 in depicted Fig 4.7.

The data recorded on initial plant population at 20 DAS, reflected that

different treatments failed to cause significant variation on the experimental
crop studied under course of investigation. The highest initial plant population
was recorded under 160 kg N ha-1 (N3) (187) and lowest 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (179).
Besides herbicides W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (184)
recorded highest initial plant population and lowest in W3 (sulfosulfuron @
0.025 kg ha-1) treated plots.

Table-4.7: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on initial plant

population (Number m-2) of wheat at 20 DAS
Initial plant
Treatments
population
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 179
N2-120 kg N ha-1 181
N3-160 kg N ha-1 187
SEm± 3.96
CD at 5 % NS
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D (@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 181
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron (@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 184
W3-Sulfosulfuron (@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 178
SEm± 3.96
CD at 5 % NS

55
 Experimental Findings

4.2.2 Plant height (cm)

The data on progressive plant height at successive crop growth stages as

influenced by nitrogen levels and herbicides had been summarized in the Table
4.8 and depicted in Fig. 4.8. The plant growth slowly up to 30 DAS and there
after a fast growth rate was observed up to 60 DAS stage.

Plant height was affected significantly by different nitrogen levels

treatments at all the stages of crop growth 60, 90 DAS and at harvest, except at
30th day’s stage. At 30th days stage plant height was not significantly affect
among all the treatments of nitrogen levels. Significantly maximum plant height
was recorded at 160 kg N ha-1 (N3) (67.30), (87.80) and (86.97) at 60, 90 DAS
and at harvest stage, respectively and being at par with 120 kg N ha-1 (N2).
Although, the minimum plant height was recorded at 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (59.27),
(77.37) and (76.57) at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest stage, respectively.

The effect of different herbicides on plant height depicted in Fig. 4.8

reflected significant effect on plant height due to various herbicides at all stages
of crop growth, except at 30th days crop stages.

The maximum plant height was recorded in W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron

@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (67.17), (87.00) and (85.80) at 60, 90 DAS and harvest
stages, respectively, which was being at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025
kg ha-1). While, the minimum plant height was noticed under W1 (pendimethalin
fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (60.00), (78.80) and (78.00) at same growth stages
during experimental year.

56
 Experimental Findings

Table-4.8: Effects of nitrogen levels and herbicides on plant height (cm) at

various growth stages of wheat

At
Treatments 30 DAS 60 DAS 90 DAS
harvest
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 23.10 59.27 77.73 76.57
N2-120 kg N ha-1 24.33 63.37 82.67 81.83
N3-160 kg N ha-1 25.17 67.30 87.80 86.97
SEm± 0.69 1.74 2.12 1.84
CD at 5 % NS 5.23 6.37 5.52
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
24.07 60.00 78.80 78.00
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
24.63 67.17 87.00 85.80
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1)
W3-Sulfosulfuron
23.70 62.77 82.40 81.57
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1)
SEm± 0.69 1.74 2.12 1.84
CD at 5 % NS 5.23 6.37 5.52

4.2.3 Number of shoots (m-2)

The data pertaining to number of shoots (m-2) have been summarized in
Table 4.9 and depicted in Fig. 4.9.

It was quite evident from the data given in Table 4.9 that the different
levels of nitrogen had no-significant effect on number of shoots at 30 DAS.

Different levels of nitrogen had significant effect on number of shoots

from 60 DAS to harvest stage of crop. Application of nitrogen 160 kg N ha-1
(N3) produced maximum number of shoots (383.13), (413.77) and (409.73) at

57
 Experimental Findings

60, 90 DAS and at harvest which was significantly higher as compare to

application of 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (338.87), (363.07) and (359.47), being
statistically at par with treatment 120 kg N ha-1 (N2) at same crop growth stages
during present investigation, respectively.

The perusal of data revealed that number of shoots was influenced

significantly due to application of W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004
kg ha-1) from 60 DAS to harvest stage. The number of shoots were recorded
maximum with W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (376.70),
(410.13) and (406.17) at 60, 90 DAS and at harvest which was significantly
superior over the W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (344.97),
(369.63) and (366.00) at same growth stages, respectively. However, it was
being at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1).

Table-4.9: Effects of nitrogen levels and herbicides on number of shoot

(m-2) at various growth stages of wheat

Treatments 30 DAS 60 DAS 90 DAS At harvest

A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 174.00 338.87 363.07 359.47
N2-120 kg N ha-1 181.00 360.50 389.60 385.80
N3-160 kg N ha-1 188.67 383.13 413.77 409.73
SEm± 4.31 7.82 8.88 9.71
CD at 5 % NS 23.45 26.64 29.12
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 180.67 344.97 369.63 366.00
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 184.33 376.60 410.13 406.17
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 178.67 360.93 386.67 382.83
SEm± 4.31 7.82 8.88 9.71
CD at 5 % NS 23.45 26.64 29.12

58
 Experimental Findings

4.2.4 Leaf area index (LAI)

The data recorded on leaf area index affected by different levels of

nitrogen and herbicides at 30, 60 and 90 DAS have been presented in Table 4.10
and shown in Fig. 4.10. Leaf area index is the ultimate expression of photolytic
activities of plant, which play great role on growth and yield parameters during
the development of crop. In, general, LAI was rather slow up to 30 DAS,
increased abruptly between 30 to 90 DAS indicating grand growth period lies
between 30 and 60 DAS.
Different treatments of nitrogen levels had insignificant effect on leaf area
index up to 30 DAS. Nitrogen levels treatments significantly affected on leaf
area index at 60 and 90 DAS stage of crop. Application of nitrogen 160 kg ha-1
(N3) produce maximum leaf area index (4.51) and (4.67) at 60, 90 DAS stage
of crop growth, which was being statistically at par with 120 kg N ha-1 (N2) as
compare to lower nitrogen level 80 kg N ha-1 (N1).

The herbicides showed non-significant difference on leaf area index at 30

DAS during experimental year 2017-18. The data observed on leaf area index
was influenced significantly from 60 and 90 DAS due to various herbicides. The
leaf area index was recorded maximum with the application of W2 (clodinafop
+ metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (4.43) and (4.63) at 60 and 90 DAS, which
was significantly higher over the W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
(4.06) and (4.18) 60 and 90 DAS. However, it was statistically at par with
herbicide treatment W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1), respectively.

59
 Experimental Findings

Table-4.10: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on leaf area index of

wheat at various growth stages of wheat
Treatments 30 DAS 60 DAS 90 DAS
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 1.45 3.98 4.11
N2-120 kg N ha-1 1.51 4.24 4.40
N3-160 kg N ha-1 1.57 4.51 4.67
SEm± 0.004 0.08 0.10
CD at 5 % NS 0.24 0.30
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 1.51 4.06 4.18
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 1.54 4.43 4.63
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 1.49 4.24 4.38
SEm± 0.004 0.08 0.10
CD at 5 % NS 0.24 0.30

4.2.5 Dry matter accumulation (g m-2)

The data observed on dry matter accumulation as affected by different

levels of nitrogen and herbicides at 30, 60, 90 DAS and at harvest have been
presented in Table 4.11 and illustrated in Fig. 4.11.

In general, dry matter accumulation increased linearly with advancement

in crop age. Lower dose of nitrogen resulted in significantly less dry matter
accumulation as compared to higher levels of nitrogen. Whereas, the plant grow
slowly up to 30 DAS and there after a fast growth rate was observed up to 60
DAS stage.

Application of nitrogen @ 160 kg ha-1 (N3) being at par with 120 kg N

ha-1 (N2), it recorded significantly more crop dry matter accumulation as
compared to lower nitrogen level 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (446.27), (790.23) and
(929.67) at 60, 90 DAS and harvest stage of crop growth, except at 30 days

60
 Experimental Findings

stage, respectively. Dry matter accumulation was non-significant under various

nitrogen levels at 30 DAS stage during experimental year 2017-18.
Under various herbicides, W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
resulted insignificantly less dry matter accumulation (451.53), (799.57) and
(904.67) over rest of the herbicides applied at 60, 90 DAS and harvest stage of
crop growth, except at 30 days stage, respectively.

Significantly maximum dry matter accumulation was recorded with

herbicide W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (495.70),
(877.77) and (1032.67) being at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1),
which resulted significantly higher dry matter accumulation as compare to W1
(pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) at all stages of crop growth.
Table-4.11: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on dry matter of wheat
(gm-2)
Treatments 30 DAS 60 DAS 90 DAS At harvest
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 62.67 446.27 790.23 929.67
N2-120 kg N ha-1 65.17 474.40 840.10 988.33
N3-160 kg N ha-1 67.93 502.23 889.37 1046.33
SEm± 1.75 11.05 18.74 23.80
CD at 5 % NS 33.14 56.20 71.37
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 66.37 451.53 799.57 904.67
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 65.03 495.70 877.77 1032.67
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 64.37 475.67 842.37 991.00
SEm± 1.75 11.05 18.74 23.80
CD at 5 % NS 33.14 56.20 71.37

61
 Experimental Findings

B. Yield attributes and yield

4.2.6 Number of effective shoots (m-2)

Data summarized in Table 4.12 and depicted in Fig. 4.12 revealed that
there was significant increase in number of effective shoots m-2 with successive
increase in levels of nitrogen up to 160 kg ha-1 (N3). Application of nitrogen @
160 kg ha-1 (N3) produced significantly more number of effective shoots
(391.57) over lower level of nitrogen 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (344.73) and was at par
with 120 kg N ha-1 (N2).

The herbicides W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1)

(386.70) influenced the number of effective shoots (m-2) significantly under W1
(pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (350.97) and being at par with W3
(sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (367.30) at final stage of crop growth during
course of experimental investigation.

4.2.7 Length of spike (cm)

The data pertaining to this character are presented in Table 4.12 and
exhibited in Fig. 4.12. It was evident from the data given in said table that
different levels of nitrogen and herbicides did not influence length of spike
significantly. However, highest length of spike was observed under 160 kg ha-1
(N3) (9.70) and lowest in 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (8.90) while, the highest length of
spike was observed under herbicides W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @
0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (9.40) and lowest in W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1)
(9.17) during experimental year 2017-18.
4.2.8 Number of grains spike-1 (g)
The related to number of grains spike-1 have been summarized in Table
4.12 and illustrated in Fig. 4.12 data revealed that grains spike-1 was not
significantly affected by nitrogen levels and herbicides. Highest value of grains
spike-1 was recorded in 160 kg ha-1 (N3) (48.53) and lowest in 80 kg N ha-1 (N1)

62
 Experimental Findings

(42.60). However, maximum number of grains spike-1 recorded from herbicides

W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (48.20) and minimum in
W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (43.17) during experimental
studies.

4.2.9 1000-grain weight (g)

Data related to 1000 grain weight (g) presented in Table 4.12 and showed
in Fig. 4.12. Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides treatments on 1000 grain
weight was non-significant. 1000 grain weight of wheat was found highest under
160 kg ha-1 (N3) (36.55) and lowest in 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (36.12). Whereas, the
minimum 1000 grain weight was noticed under W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg
ha-1) (37.27) and maximum in W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg
ha-1) (36.40) during experimental studies.
Table-4.12: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides yield attributing
characters of wheat
Effective Spike 1000 grain
Grains
Treatments shoot length weight
spike-1
(m-2) (cm) (g)
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 344.73 8.90 42.60 36.12
N2-120 kg N ha-1 368.67 9.23 45.77 36.35
N3-160 kg N ha-1 391.57 9.70 48.53 36.55
SEm± 9.00 0.26 1.25 0.80
CD at 5 % 26.99 NS NS NS
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 350.97 9.27 43.17 36.35
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 386.70 9.40 48.20 36.40
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 367.30 9.17 45.53 36.27
SEm± 9.00 0.26 1.25 0.80
CD at 5 % 26.99 NS NS NS

63
 Experimental Findings

4.2.10 Grain yield (q ha-1)

The data pertaining to grain yield as affected by nitrogen levels and
herbicides are presented in Table 4.13 and depicted in Fig. 4.13. It revealed that
increasing the rate of nitrogen significantly increased the grain yield. The
application of nitrogen 160 kg ha-1 (N3) recorded significantly higher grain yield
(42.74) over the 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (36.61). However, 160 kg ha-1 (N3) being
statistically at par with 120 kg ha-1 (N2). The lowest grain yield was observed
with 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (36.61).
Different herbicids treatments influenced grain yield of wheat during
course of investigation. Maximum grain yield (42.33 q ha-1) was recorded under
W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) treatment and being
statistically at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (39.81 q ha-1), which
was significantly superior then W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
(38.01 q ha-1). The lowest grain yield (38.01 q ha-1) was recorded under
herbicides with W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) during
experimental year 2017-18.
4.2.11 Straw yield (q ha-1)
The data on straw yield are given in Table 4.13 and depicted in Fig. 4.13.
The perusal of data showed that, application of 160 kg ha-1 (N3) recorded
significantly highest straw yield (60.56) over the 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (54.03).
However, 160 kg ha-1 (N3) being statistically at par with 120 kg ha-1 (N2). The
lowest straw yield was observed with 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (54.03).
Among the herbicides, Maximum straw yield (60.61 q ha-1) was recorded
under W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) treatment and being
statistically at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (57.29 q ha-1), which
was significantly superior then W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
(54.06 q ha-1). The lowest straw yield (54.06 q ha-1) was recorded under
herbicides with W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) during
experimental year 2017-18.

64
 Experimental Findings

4.2.12 Biological yield (q ha-1)

Nitrogen levels and herbicides had significant influenced on biological
yield wheat crop. The maximum biological yield was obtained with the
application of nitrogen @ 160 kg ha-1 (N3) (103.30) significant over the 80 kg N
ha-1 (N1) (90.63). However, 160 kg ha-1 (N3) being statistically at par with 120
kg ha-1 (N2) (97.50). The lowest biological yield was observed with 80 kg N
ha-1 (N1) (90.63).
The highest biological yield was obtained with application of W2
(clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (102.93) treatment and being
statistically at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (96.43 q ha-1), which
was significantly superior then W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
(92.07 q ha-1).
4.2.13 Harvest index (%)
The data pertaining to harvest index have been summarized in Table 4.13
and showed in Fig. 4.13. The data revealed that the different nitrogen levels had
not significantly influenced the harvest index. However, the highest harvest
index was recorded under 160 kg ha-1 (N3) (42.45%) followed by 120 kg N ha-1
(N2) (42.29%), while the lowest harvest index was observed with 80 kg N ha-1
(N1) (41.95%).
Different herbicids had not significantly influenced the harvest index.
However, the highest harvest index was recorded under W2 (clodinafop +
metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (42.28%) followed by W1 (pendimethalin fb
2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (42.22 %). However, the lowest harvest index was
recorded under W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (42.18%) during
experimental year 2017-18.

65
 Experimental Findings

Table-4.13: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on yield of wheat

Grain Straw Biological Harvest

Treatments
yield yield Yield index
(q h-1) (q h-1) -1
(q h ) (%)
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 36.61 54.03 90.63 41.95

N2-120 kg N ha-1 40.13 57.37 97.50 42.29

N3-160 kg N ha-1 42.74 60.56 103.30 42.45

SEm± 0.91 1.60 2.11 1.01

CD at 5 % 2.70 4.80 6.32 NS

B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 38.01 54.06 92.07 42.22
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 42.33 60.61 102.93 42.28
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 39.81 57.29 96.43 42.18
SEm± 0.91 1.60 2.11 1.01
CD at 5 % 2.70 4.80 6.32 NS

C. Quality component

4.2.14 Nitrogen content (%) in grain and straw

Data set out in Table-4.14 and illustrated in Fig 4.14 on effect of different
levels of nitrogen and herbicides on nitrogen content in grain and straw.
It was revealed that no-significant effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides
on the nitrogen content (%) in grain and straw of experimental crop.

Maximum content of nitrogen was observed under application of nitrogen

@ 160 kg ha-1 (N3) (2.02) and (0.50) followed with slightly lesser value by 120
kg N ha-1 (N2) (1.99) and (0.49) while the lowest nitrogen content was observed

66
 Experimental Findings

with 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (1.96) and (0.49) in grain and straw respectively, during
experimental year 2017-18.

Among the herbicides maximum content of nitrogen in grain and straw

was observed with W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (2.0)
and (0.50) slightly lesser value recorded under W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg
ha-1) (1.99) and (0.49) while the lowest nitrogen content was observed with W1
(pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) (1.98) and (0.49) in grain and straw
respectively.

4.2.15 Protein content (%) in grain

Data related to protein content (%) in grain are presented in Table 4.14.
Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on protein content (%) in grain was not
significantly influenced.

The increasing rate of nitrogen increased protein percentage of wheat

grains. Maximum protein percentage was found under application of nitrogen
@ 160 kg ha-1 (N3) (12.62) followed with slightly lesser value by 120 kg N ha-1
(N2) (12.42) while the lowest protein content was recorded with 80 kg N ha-1
(N1) (12.25) in grain during experimental year 2017-18.

Among the herbicides maximum protein content (%) in grain was

observed with W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) (12.50)
followed by W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (12.42) while the lowest protein
content was observed with W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1)
(12.37).

67
 Experimental Findings

Table-4.14: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on nitrogen content in

grain and straw and protein content in grain (%) of wheat
Nitrogen Nitrogen Protein
content in content in content in
Treatments
grain straw grain
(%) (%) (%)
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)
N1-80 kg N ha-1 1.96 0.490 12.25
N2-120 kg N ha-1 1.99 0.497 12.42
N3-160 kg N ha-1 2.02 0.505 12.62
SEm± 0.027 0.007 0.169
CD at 5 % NS NS NS
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 1.98 0.495 12.37
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 2.00 0.500 12.50
W3-Sulfosulfuron
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 1.99 0.497 12.42
Sem± 0.027 0.007 0.169
CD at 5 % NS NS NS

4.2.16 Nitrogen uptake (kg ha-1) by grain and straw

The data pertaining to nitrogen uptake by grain and straw of wheat crop
are presented in Table 4.15 and illustrated in Fig. 4.15.

Different levels of nitrogen caused significant variation in nitrogen uptake

by crop. Application of nitrogen @ 160 kg ha-1 (N3) removed maximum quantity
(93.25) and (31.54) of nitrogen from the soil and being at par with 120 kg N
ha-1 (N2) (83.77) and (28.55). However, the minimum nitrogen uptake was found
significant with the application of 80 kg N ha-1 (N1) (74.73) and (25.88) by grain
and straw respectively, during experimental year 2017-18.
Different herbicides to control weeds owing significant variation in
nitrogen uptake by crop. The treated with W2 (clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06
+ 0.004 kg ha-1) (88.92) and (30.296) recorded maximum quantity of nitrogen,

68
 Experimental Findings

being statistically at par with W3 (sulfosulfuron @ 0.025 kg ha-1) (83.01) and

(28.41), while W1 (pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+ 0.5 kg ha-1) (79.83) and
(27.25) recorded significant treatment on nitrogen uptake by grain and straw at
the time of experimental investigation.

Table-4.15: Effect of nitrogen levels and herbicides on nitrogen uptake by

grain and straw (kg ha-1) of wheat.
Nitrogen Nitrogen Total
uptake by uptake by nitrogen
Treatments
grain straw uptake
(kg ha-1) (kg ha-1) (kg ha-1)
A. Nitrogen levels (kg ha-1)

N1-80 kg N ha-1 74.73 25.88 100.61

N2-120 kg N ha-1 83.77 28.55 112.31
N3-160 kg N ha-1 93.25 31.54 124.79
SEm± 2.44 0.76 2.75
CD at 5 % 7.32 2.27 8.26
B. Herbicides (kg ha-1)
W1-Pendimethalin fb 2,4-D
(@ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) 79.83 27.25 107.08
W2-Clodinafop + metsulfuron 119.22
(@ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) 88.92 30.29
W3-Sulfosulfuron 111.42
(@ 0.025 kg ha-1) 83.00 28.41
Sem± 2.44 0.76 2.75
CD at 5 % 7.32 2.27 8.26

4.3 Economics
The economics of different treatment combinations was worked out on
the basis of inputs-outputs analysis. The data pertaining to economics have been
presented in Table 4.16. Various components of economics are being described
here as under.

69
 Experimental Findings

4.3.1 Cost of cultivation (Rs.ha-1)

The data presented in Table 4.16 revealed that W2 (clodinafop +

metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) has added more towards common
expenditure with higher rate of nitrogen application. As such the total cost of
cultivation was highest (Rs. 35057) with the treatment combination of N3W2
(160 kg N ha-1 + clodinafop + metsulfuron) and lowest cost of cultivation (Rs.
33708) was observed with treatment combination N1W1 (80 kg N ha-1
+ pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1).

4.3.2 Gross return (Rs.ha-1)

The data on gross return calculated under different treatment

combinations presented in Table 4.16. The highest average gross return (Rs.
102032) was recorded with N3W2 (160 kg N ha-1 + clodinafop + metsulfuron @
0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) and lowest (Rs. 79800) was observed with treatment
combination N1W1 (80 kg N ha-1+ pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D).

4.3.3 Net return (Rs.ha-1)

The maximum net return of (Rs. 66975) was recorded under N3W2 (160
kg N ha-1 + clodinafop + metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) and lowest (Rs.
46092) was observed with treatment combination N1W1 (80 kg N ha-1+
pendimethalin fb 2, 4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) during experimental studies.

4.3.4 B-C ratio (Rs.re-1 invested)

The data further revealed that the highest average B-C ratio (1.92) was
observed with the treatment combination N3W2 (160 kg N ha-1 + clodinafop +
metsulfuron @ 0.06+0.004 kg ha-1) followed by N2W2 and lowest (Rs. 1.37) was
observed with treatment combination N1W1 (80 kg N ha-1+ pendimethalin fb 2,
4-D @ 1+0.5 kg ha-1) during experimental studies.

70
 Experimental Findings

Table-4.16: Economics of nitrogrn levels and herbicides on wheat

Treatment Common cost Treatment Total cost of Gross return Net return B:C ratio
of cultivation cost cultivation
(Rs.ha-1) (Rs.ha-1) (Rs.re-1 invested)
(Rs.ha-1) (Rs.ha-1) (Rs.ha-1)
N1W1 31335 2373 33708 79800 46092 1.37
N1W2 31335 33926 89785 55859 1.65
2743
N1W3 31335 33316 80433 47117 1.41
2031
N2W1 31335 34234 86331 52097 1.52
2938
N2W2 31335 34452 95293 60841 1.77
3308
N2W3 31335 33842 91998 58156 1.71
2596
N3W1 31335 34839 93491 58652 1.69
3502
N3W2 31335 35057 102032 66975 1.91
3872
N3W3 31335 3160 34447 96068 61621 1.79

71