Abstract
The study was conducted to optimize fertilizer dose in Vetch (Vicia sativa) for higher fodder yield and grain yield
under rainfed conditions at National Agricultural Research Centre, Islamabad during 2001-02 to 2002-03.The
experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications, keeping plot size 3m x
1.6m. Vetch was sown on Mid. October 2002 and Mid October 2003 in the pattern of 60 cm apart in rows. Four
different Phosphorus fertilizer doses were evaluated in the study. All the other agronomic practices except
Phosphorus fertilizer doses were kept uniform for all treatments. The parameters determined were plant height,
leaf length, number of leaves per branch, number of leaflets per leaf, green fodder yield and dry matter yield was
recorded at 5% pod formation while grain yield was recorded at maturity. The fertilizer dose of 15-40 NP kg ha'
produced significantly taller plants, more leaf length, higher number of leaves per branch, number of leaflets per
leaf, green fodder yield, dry matter yield and grain yield. Therefore the highest green fodder, dry matter and grain
yields of 18.4, 4.5 and 1.6 t ha-\ respectively were obtained as a result of application of 3'd fertilizer dose (15-40
kg ha'). Therefore, fertilization of 15-40 NP kg ha-1 may be recommended for obtaining optimum production of
vetch under rainfed conditions of Pothowar region.
Key words: Vetch, Phosphorus, Fertilizer, Growth, grain yield, pothowar
