Revealing the Nexus between Fertilizer Composition and the Performance of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes in the Himalayan Heartland of India

Abstract

Gaining insight into the interplay between crucial fertilizers and their impact on crop characteristics is crucial for enhancing the agricultural output and promoting sustainable crop administration. The objective of this study was to assess the growth, productivity, and nutrient-use efficiency (NUE) of common bean genotypes with varying levels of NPK. In the RCBD field study, three genotypes of common bean were cultivated—SKUA-WB-5000/1446 (V1), SKUA-WB-5002/185 (V2), and SKUA-WB-5003/1492 (V3)—together with six combinations of NPK (N2:P2O5:K2O kg ha−1). The findings indicated that the height of the plants had a positive correlation with elevated NPK levels subsequent to the maximum point in NPK 10-20-10. The V1 genotype exhibited superior growth and productive traits, particularly with regard to its higher seed index and much greater quantity of pods plant−1. This indicates that the V1 genotype may be a suitable choice for cultivating common beans and highlights the importance of adjusting nutrient levels to ensure sustainable crop management. This study suggests applying 30-60-30 NPK kg ha−1 of fertilizer for genotypes V1 and V3, while genotype V2 should receive 40-80-40 NPK kg ha−1 under rainfed circumstances.