Effect of Spent Mushroom Substrate-Based Compost Enriched with Micronutrients on the Productivity of Maize (Zea Mays L.) and Soil Health

Abstract

The incorporation of agro-industrial residues like spent mushroom substrate (SMS) into nutrient management strategies provides a sustainable pathway for intensive agriculture. A field experiment was carried out during the Kharif of 2025 at GIET University, Odisha, to assess the impact of SMS-based compost supplemented with zinc (Zn), boron (B), and neem cake on the physiological, yield, and economic indices of maize (Zea mays L., var. VNR 4226). Utilizing a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with eight treatments and three replications, the study revealed that integrating SMS with micronutrients and the Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF) significantly augmented crop performance. Treatment 8 (T8) (SMS@7t/ha + dried plant debris@2t/ha + cow dung@1t/ha  + 5% Zn + B + RDF) delivered the highest plant stature (217.47 cm), maximum dry matter accumulation (237.63 g/plant), and superior yield attributes. This resulted in an exceptional kernel yield of 8.17 t/ha, a 175% increase over the FYM control. Soil chemical properties, notably available phosphorus, improved considerably under SMS regimes. Economically, T8 yielded the highest net monetary returns (₹1,18,642/ha), whereas T6 (RDF + 5% neem cake) optimized the Benefit-Cost ratio (2.38). These findings advocate for the integrated use of fortified SMS compost to enhance maize productivity and soil health.