Impact of Combined Nitrogen and Boron Fertilizers on Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) Growth and Productivity

Abstract

The study demonstrates that combined nitrogen (N) and boron (B) fertilization significantly enhances pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) growth, physiological traits, and fodder productivity. Key findings reveal, Morphological Improvements: Plant height peaked at 223.15 cm (T5: N170 + B20%), a 44.1% increase over the control (T1). Stem diameter thickened progressively, with T5 (0.92 cm) achieving a 50.8% increase. Leaf area expanded by 121% in T5 (1781.50 cm²), indicating superior photosynthetic potential. Yield and Quality Enhancements: Green fodder yield maximized at 77.85 t ha⁻¹ (T5), 53.6% higher than control, reflecting strong N+B synergy. Crude protein increased to 46.18% (T5), while ash content rose to 7.32%, highlighting improved nutritional value. Dry matter (14.77%) and crude fibre (10.39%) also peaked in T5, with statistically significant increments (LSD ≤ 0.323). Physiological and Agronomic Insights: Stable plant density (153–154 m⁻²) and elevated leaves per tiller (12.62 in T5) confirmed efficient resource utilization. The ultra-low LSD values (0.010–2.36) underscored treatment efficacy, with T4 (N130 + B15%) offering a cost-effective alternative to T5 for most parameters.