Effect of irrigation, methods of crop establishment and fertilizer management on soil properties and productivity in rice (Oryza sativa) wheat (Triticum aestivum) sequence

A field experiment with rice (Oryza sativa) -wheat (Triticum aestivum L. em end. Fiori & Paol.) rotation was conducted during 1992-95. Submergence up t o 20 days after transplanting (DAT), then irrigation 1 day after disappeara nce of water in rice and 0.9 ID : CPE ratio in wheat gave 13.8% higher grai n yield (112.0 q/ha/year) of the system than submergenec up to 20 DAT, then irrigation 3-4 days after disappearance of ponded water or near hair-crack ing in rice and 0.6 ID CPE ratio in wheat. Higher grain yield of rice was o btained in transplanting of rice and drilling of wheat (M-2) than direct se eding of rice in puddled field and broadcasting of wheat (M-1) and dry seed ing of rice under good moisture and drilling of wheat (M-3). The M-3 excell ed other methods in wheat-grain production. However. total productivity of the system was higher in M-2 (107.8 q/ha/year). Productivity of both crops was higher with the application of 150% recommended dose of fertilizers (F- 2) than 100% recommended dose (F-1) and 100% recommended dose with 10 tonne s farmyard manure/ha to both the crops (F-3). Bulk density decreased and av ailable water content (%) increased in M-3. Organic carbon, available P and K were found highest in F-3.