RESPONSE OF COMMON BUCKWHEAT TO NITROGEN AND PHOPHORUS FERTILIZATION

The performance of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) was evaluated using various nitrogen and phosphorus levels at Mountain Agricultural Research Sub-Station, Skardu (Baltistan), Pakistan during summer 2009. Three N levels (0, 50 and 100 kg ha^-1) and four P levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg ha^-1) were used. The experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design using four replications. NP combinations were allotted to plots of size 1.8 m x 5 m, having 6 rows with row to row spacing 0.3 m. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that higher N doses delayed maturity and increased lodging while the higher P doses hastened maturity and decreased lodging. Generally, plant height, branches plant^-1, heads m^-2, grains head^-1, 1000-grain weight, grain yield, biological yield and harvest index increased with increase in N and P levels. The interaction of nitrogen and phosphorus was significant for lodging score, 1000-grain weight, grain yield and biological yield. It was observed that higher doses of nitrogen and phosphorus (100-120 kg ha^-1, respectively) used in combination enhanced yield and all yield components of common buckwheat. It is concluded that buchwheat crop, the NP requirements of which are generally said to be very low, shows active response to NP fertilization.