Standardization of planting method and nutrient levels in teff—An emerging millet in the Indian context

Teff [Eragrostis tef (Zuccagni.) Trotter], an Ethiopian grain recognized for its nutritional value, is gaining prominence as a super millet in India. To optimize its production, a field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Haveri, Karnataka, on Alfisols using a factorial randomized complete block design during the Kharif seasons (July–October) of 2019, 2021, and 2022. Factor I included two planting methods: M1—line sowing and M2—transplanting, while Factor II covered five nutrient levels: N1—control, N2—100% organics, N3—20:10:10, N4—30:15:15, and N5—40:20:20 kg N:P₂O₅:K₂O ha⁻¹. Results showed that transplanting significantly improved grain yield (260 kg ha⁻¹), straw yield (447 kg ha⁻¹), and nutrient uptake (N-8.04, P-1.93, K-5.27 kg ha⁻¹) compared to line sowing. However, soil-available nutrients were higher under line sowing. Among nutrient treatments, N5 (40:20:20) led to the highest straw yield (474 kg ha⁻¹), lodging (81.60%), nutrient uptake, soil nutrient levels, and nutritional quality (protein—13.51%, moisture—12.35%, fat—2.84%, ash—3.19%), but N3 (20:10:10) recorded the highest grain yield (297 kg ha⁻¹). Interaction analysis revealed line sowing with N5 outperformed others in all parameters except grain yield. The findings of this study offer significant implications for enhancing millet-based food security strategies in India. By standardizing cultivation practices for teff, this research paves the way for expanding its production in marginal soils and water-limited regions. This contributes not only to nutritional security due to teff's high-value grain composition but also to climate-resilient agriculture through its adaptability and low input requirements.