RESPONSE OF PALMAROSA (CYMBOPOGON MARTINII VAR. MOTIA) TO BIOFERTILIZERS, NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS IN A SHALLOW BLACK SOIL UNDER RAIN-FED CONDITION

In a 2-year field study highest dry-matter yield, essential oil yield and maximum net return of palmarosa oil grass [Cymbopogon martinii (Ro xb.) Wats. var. motia Burk.] were recorded by applying Azotobactor @ 2 kg/ha together with 20 kg N + 20 kg P/ha under rainfed condition in a shallow black soil. Application of Azotabactor alone at the same rate also resulted in significantly higher herb and oil yields In 1994 and in pooled years. Alone application of 20 kg N + 20 kg P/ha and use of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria alo ne and Azospirillum alone and in combination could not enhance the herb and oil yields of palmarosa sat isfactorily in pooled seasons.