Shading effect of Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo L.) increases growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) in the Tarai Region of Uttar Pradesh

A field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Farm of Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sargatia, Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, during 2017-18 and 2018-19 (ratoon crop) to evaluate the effect of different shade levels on the growth of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) under Tarai conditions. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with four shade treatments, namely control (0% shade), 50, 70 and 80% shade, replicated three times. Turmeric variety ‘Megha-1’ was planted using healthy rhizomes weighing 30-40 g with 1-2 viable buds at a spacing of 30 × 25 cm. The results revealed that shade levels significantly influenced both growth and yield of turmeric. Among the treatments, 50% shade recorded the highest plant height, maximum number of leaves plant-1 and superior dry matter accumulation at all growth stages. This treatment also produced the maximum corm yield (51.95 q ha⁻¹), which was markedly higher than the control (36.14 q ha⁻¹) and higher shade intensities of 70% (46.10 q ha⁻¹) and 80% (44.74 q ha⁻¹). Excessive shading (70-80%) resulted in comparatively lower yield due to reduced light availability, while full sunlight conditions showed reduced performance due to possible light and temperature stress. The study concludes that moderate shading (50%) provides an optimal microclimatic environment for enhancing growth and yield of turmeric in the Tarai region of Uttar Pradesh. Cultivation of turmeric under partial shade, such as in Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo)-based agroforestry systems, can be recommended for achieving better growth and sustainable productivity in the region.