Integrated effects of sewage sludge, farmyard manure, and nitrogen fertilizer on the growth and physiological traits of fodder Sorghum

Aim: The present research aims to develop sustainable agriculture strategies that enhance fodder sorghum yield while ensuring soil health and environmental safety. Methodology: Field experiment was conducted during kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 at Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, using a split plot design with three replications. Sewage sludge (SS) (2.5 and 5 t ha-1) and FYM (2.5, 5.0 and 7.5 t ha-1) as the main factors. In subplots, four nitrogen levels (control, 50%, 75% and 100% recommended dose of nitrogen) were applied. Results: Chlorophyll content, relative water content and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) was significantly higher with application of 5 t ha-1 sewage sludge, 7.5 t ha-1 FYM and 100% RDN during both the years. Canopy temperature was significantly lower with 5 t ha-1 SS-sewage sludge and 7.5 t ha-1 FYM, while 100% RDN treatment further reduced canopy temperature at all stages. Crop growth rate (CGR) and relative growth rate (RGR) were significantly higher with at 5 t ha-1 SS-sewage sludge, 7.5 t ha-1 FYM and 100% RDN, particularly at early growth stages. Interpretation: Combined application of sewage sludge, FYM and nitrogen significantly enhanced the crop performance and physiological traits. Key words: FYM, Growth, Nitrogen, Physiological traits, Sewage sludge, Sorghum