International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Role of Artificial Intelligence in Disease and Pest Management in Cauliflower: A Review

2026-11-02T08:59:44+00:00

Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.) is a nutritionally important cole vegetable and a high-value component of intensive vegetable production. Its yield and market quality are frequently reduced by bacterial, fungal and oomycete diseases and by insect pests that cause direct feeding injury or facilitate secondary infections. Conventional disease and pest surveillance is largely dependent on visual scouting, expert diagnosis and periodic field observations. These approaches remain indispensable, but they can be labour-intensive, subjective and difficult to scale over large production areas. Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, image segmentation, object detection, remote sensing and predictive analytics, offers a complementary approach for rapid and repeatable crop-health assessment. This review examines the potential role of AI in cauliflower disease and pest management, covering image acquisition, disease classification, lesion localisation, severity estimation, insect identification, automated counting, forecasting, smartphone applications, UAV-based surveillance and AI-enabled integrated pest management. Cauliflower-specific research has demonstrated promising performance of deep-learning models. The Cauli-Det modified YOLOv8 system reported precision of 93.2%, recall of 82.6% and mean average precision of 91.1% for bacterial soft rot, downy mildew and black rot in its experimental dataset (Uddin et al., 2024). Another recent cauliflower study reported 99.85% classification accuracy using EfficientNet-B3 under its experimental conditions (Malik et al., 2025). Broader plant-disease research also demonstrates strong potential for CNNs and transfer learning (Mohanty et al., 2016; Ferentinos, 2018), while pest-detection research supports automated insect recognition and monitoring (Thenmozhi & Reddy, 2019; Chakrabarty et al., 2026). However, field variability, limited crop-specific datasets, class imbalance, symptom similarity, model explainability, computational requirements and inadequate independent validation remain major constraints. Future research should integrate AI predictions with weather, crop stage, pest abundance, disease severity and economic thresholds so that the technology supports practical, affordable and environmentally responsible IPM in cauliflower.

Effect of Humic Acid-based Bio-stimulant on Soil Fertility Status in Vertisol under Rice Cultivation of Chhattisgarh, India

2026-10-30T11:55:47+00:00

A field experiment was carried out during the kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Research Farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India, to evaluate the influence of a humic acid-based biostimulant on the fertility status of a Vertisol in Chhattisgarh. The experiment was established using a randomised block design (RBD) with twelve treatments, each replicated three times. The treatments comprised T1 – recommended dose of fertilisers (RDF; 120:60:40); T2 – RDF + root dipping in humic acid powder solution (1 g/L); T3 – RDF + humic acid powder at 250 g/acre (soil application, SA); T4 – RDF + humic acid powder at 500 g/acre (SA); T5 – RDF + humic acid powder at 1000 g/acre (SA); T6 – 80% RDF + root dipping in humic acid powder solution (1 g/L); T7 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 250 g/acre (SA); T8 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 500 g/acre (SA); T9 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 1000 g/acre (SA); T10 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 1 g/L (foliar spray, FS); T11 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 2 g/L (FS); and T12 – 80% RDF + humic acid powder at 4 g/L (FS). The findings indicated that the different combinations of humic acid-based biostimulant applications, administered through soil and foliar methods alongside 80% or 100% RDF, had no statistically significant effect on soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC; dS/m), organic carbon (OC; %), available nitrogen and potassium (kg ha⁻¹), or the concentrations of micronutrients, including zinc, manganese, copper and iron (mg kg⁻¹). In contrast, soil-available phosphorus (kg ha⁻¹) differed significantly among treatments, with the highest concentration observed under RDF + humic acid powder at 500 g/acre (T4), followed by RDF + humic acid powder at 1000 g/acre (T5).

Standardization of Fertigation Rate and Scheduling in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under Open Conditions

2026-10-30T12:03:43+00:00

Background: Optimising fertigation rate and nutrient scheduling is important for tomato production under open-field conditions.

Aim: To optimise the fertigation rate and scheduling of water-soluble fertilisers for tomato under open conditions.

Study Design: Factorial RCBD.

Place and Duration of Study: RHREC, UHS Campus, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka, during rabi 2025–26.

Methodology: The experiment comprised ten treatments and three replications: nine combinations of three fertiliser levels (125, 100, and 75% RDF) and three fertigation schedules, and conventional soil application of RDF as the control. Growth parameters, including plant height, number of branches, and flowering time, as well as yield parameters, including fruit number and yield, were recorded.

Results: Among the fertiliser levels, 100 % RDF recorded the significantly highest fruit yield (77.91 t ha⁻¹), whereas 75 % RDF resulted in the highest number of fruits per plant (66.17). Among the fertigation schedules, S₃ recorded superior performance for all yield attributes and produced the significantly highest yield (88.39 t ha⁻¹). Among the treatment combinations, T₉ (75% RDF + S₃) recorded the significantly highest fruit yield (90.83 t ha⁻¹) whereas T₆ (100% RDF + S₃) recorded the maximum average fruit weight (91.83 g).

Conclusion: The 75% and 100% RDF levels produced comparable results for several parameters, while schedule S₃ outperformed the other schedules. Thus, 75% RDF applied through S₃ was identified as an effective fertigation strategy under the experimental conditions.

Spatial Variability of the Physicochemical Properties of Cotton-growing Soils at Six Locations in Northern Côte d’Ivoire (Boron, Boundiali, Diawala, Ferkessédougou, Kasséré and Korhogo)

2026-10-30T12:10:21+00:00

Cotton-growing soils in northern Côte d’Ivoire differ in their physical and chemical properties, potentially affecting soil fertility management. This study assessed the spatial variability of selected physicochemical indicators at six locations: Boron, Boundiali, Diawala, Ferkessédougou, Kasséré and Korhogo. Composite soil samples were collected from the 0–20 cm layer under cotton cultivation. Laboratory analyses included particle size distribution, soil pH, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and base saturation. Differences among locations were examined using statistical and multivariate analyses. Soil pH ranged from 6.45 at Korhogo to 7.12 at Diawala, indicating slightly acidic to neutral conditions. Mean soil organic carbon ranged from 0.7 to 1.8 g kg⁻¹, total nitrogen from 0.07 to 0.16 g kg⁻¹ and available phosphorus from 9 to 30 mg kg⁻¹. CEC ranged from 5.64 to 15.32 cmol₊ kg⁻¹, while base saturation ranged from 22.9% to 59.4%. Sandy textures predominated at four locations; Diawala had a sandy loam texture and Kasséré a loam texture. The first two principal components explained 71.84% of the observed variability. Coarse silt, fine sand, pH, total nitrogen and CEC were important differentiating variables, and four relatively homogeneous soil groups were identified. These findings indicate that fertility management should consider the contrasting soil properties of the locations studied, particularly nutrient availability, soil texture and exchange capacity.

Growth and Yield of Organically Grown Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) under a Karanj (Pongamia pinnata) Based Agroforestry System

2026-10-30T12:17:11+00:00

An experiment was conducted during 2025-2026 at the Instructional-cum-Research Farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, India, to examine organic-input treatments for ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) grown beneath established Karanj (Pongamia pinnata) trees. Eight treatments were arranged in a randomized block design with three replications. Plant growth, root and seed production, selected soil properties, tree characteristics, and dry root based economic returns were evaluated. The largest numerical dry-root yield occurred with T₇ (farmyard manure 50% + vermicompost 25% + Jeevamrit 25%; 4.03 q ha⁻¹), followed by T₆ (vermicompost 50% + Bijamrit 50%; 3.88 q ha⁻¹) and T₄ (farmyard manure 50% + Bijamrit 50%; 3.53 q ha⁻¹). These three yields were statistically indistinguishable under the reported critical difference of 0.70 q ha⁻¹. T₇ provided the largest calculated gross return (₹90,675 ha⁻¹), net return (₹52,675 ha⁻¹), and gross return to cost ratio (2.39), based on a dry root selling price of ₹225 kg⁻¹. Post harvest soil organic carbon was numerically highest under T₇ (0.73%), although its baseline value was also the highest. Descriptive tree measurements indicated an increase in mean height from 6.30 to 6.47 m during the study interval. The findings identify T₇ as a promising numerical performer among the treatments tested but do not establish its superiority over T₆ or T₄ for dry root yield. Interpretation is restricted by the single season design, baseline soil heterogeneity, and incomplete documentation of some input rates and measurements.

Growth Performance of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) as Influenced by Zn and Fe Fertilizations in Northern Rajasthan, India

2026-10-30T12:25:25+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2025–26 at the Agricultural Research Farm, Tantia University, Sri Ganganagar, Rajasthan, to assess the effects of fertility levels and ZnSO₄ and FeSO₄ application on the growth of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) variety DWRB-137. Eight treatments were evaluated in a randomised block design with three replications. The treatments included a control, the full recommended dose of fertiliser (RDF) alone, 100% RDF combined with either or both micronutrients, and 75% RDF combined with zinc and/or iron sulphate. Application rates of ZnSO₄ and FeSO₄ were 20 kg ha⁻¹ where included. Germination, plant height, tiller number, dry matter accumulation and spike length were assessed. Germination ranged from 84.33% under the control to 85.83% under T5, but treatment differences were not statistically significant. T5 (100% RDF with ZnSO₄ and FeSO₄) recorded the greatest plant height at harvest (105.03 cm), highest tiller number (335.00 m⁻²), greatest dry matter accumulation (1032.13 g m⁻²) and longest spikes (14.18 cm). Treatments combining individual micronutrients with 100% RDF generally recorded lower values than T5, while the combined treatment with 75% RDF also showed improved growth attributes relative to the control. These findings suggest that applying ZnSO₄ and FeSO₄ with 100% RDF can improve the measured growth characteristics under the field conditions examined. Further research is required to determine whether these responses remain consistent across growing seasons and locations.

Effect of Organic Nutrient-Enriched Compost on Growth, Yield Attributes and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

2026-10-31T10:17:16+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2025–26 at the Research Farm of the Department of Soil Science, College of Agriculture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra, to evaluate the effect of organic nutrient-enriched compost (ONEC) on growth, yield attributes and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cv. Akash (BDNG-797). The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments comprised absolute control, recommended dose of fertiliser (RDF), different combinations of 50 and 75 % RDF with ONEC, sole 100 % ONEC and RDF combined with biochar and basalt dust. ONEC was applied at a recommended dose of 5 t ha^-1 and its fractional levels were used according to the treatment schedule. Treatment T3 (75% RDF + 50% ONEC) consistently recorded superior yield attributes and yield. This treatment recorded 84.00 pods plant^-1, 1780.92 kg ha^-1 grain yield and 2600.64 kg ha^-1 straw yield, and remained statistically at par with T8 and T4 for grain yield. The response indicates that partial substitution of mineral fertiliser with nutrient-enriched compost can maintain a favourable nutrient supply while supporting reproductive development and crop productivity. The combined use of organic and inorganic nutrient sources, therefore, offers a practical approach for improving chickpea yield under the experimental conditions.

Effect of Nano DAP on Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium Uptake by Grain, Straw and Total Plant of Wheat

2026-10-31T10:52:00+00:00

A field experiment was carried out at the Research Farm of the College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India, during the Rabi seasons of 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 to assess the effect of Nano DAP application on Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium uptake by wheat grain, straw and total plant uptake. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design comprising twelve treatments involving different application methods of conventional granular DAP and liquid Nano DAP. Nano DAP was applied through seed treatment and foliar spray. The results showed that total nitrogen uptake was recorded significantly higher in treatment T2- 100% NP through DAP (NPK 120: 60: 40 kg ha). Total phosphorus uptake was recorded significantly higher in treatment T2- 100% NP through DAP (NPK 120: 60: 40 kg ha), T7- 75% NP through DAP + Foliar Spray @ 0.2 % at 25-30 DAG with Nano DAP and T8- 75% NP through DAP + Seed Treatment @ 5 ml/kg seed + Foliar Spray @ 0.2 % at 25-30 DAG with Nano DAP. Total potassium uptake was recorded significantly higher in treatment T2, T7, T8, T12-75 % NP through DAP (NPK 90:45:40 kg/ha) and treatments in combination of 50% NP through DAP with Nano- DAP (T9 and T10). Lowest values of total nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium uptake were found in T11-Absolute Control (N0: P0: K0 kg/ha).

Evaluation of a Microbial Consortium for Growth Promotion and Suppression of Sclerotial Rot of Groundnut

2026-10-31T11:01:47+00:00

Sclerotial rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is a soil-borne disease of groundnut and is difficult to manage because of the persistent nature of the pathogen in soil. This study investigated a compatible microbial consortium comprising Rhizobium sp. R5, potassium-mobilising bacteria (KMB) isolate K1, Bacillus megaterium and Pseudomonas fluorescens for improving groundnut growth and reducing sclerotial rot. The four selected bacterial isolates showed no visible inhibition zone in the compatibility test and were combined in equal proportions (1:1:1:1). Their effect on seed germination and seedling growth was first evaluated by the rolled paper towel method and subsequently under pot conditions using groundnut cv. TAG-73. The consortium recorded 97.00% germination, 9.10 cm root length, 9.83 cm shoot length and a seedling vigour index of 1836.21 under rolled paper towel conditions. In pot culture, the consortium recorded 90.00% germination, 9.93 cm root length, 14.16 cm shoot length and the highest seedling vigour index of 2168.10. An incidence of sclerotial rot of 22.41% was recorded following consortium application compared with 57.93% in the untreated control, corresponding to 61.31% disease reduction relative to the control. The results indicate that the compatible four-member microbial consortium has the potential to improve early plant growth and suppress S. rolfsii under pot conditions.

Smallholder Farming Practices in Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas Lam.) Farms in Two Agroecological Zones of Burkina Faso

2026-10-31T13:53:14+00:00

Orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) is cultivated by smallholder farmers in Burkina Faso, but production practices and constraints differ across agroecological settings. This study described smallholder OFSP production systems in the northern and southern Sudanian zones, with emphasis on crop management, fertiliser use and farmer-reported constraints. The study was conducted in 2024 and 2025 in the northern and southern Sudanese areas of Burkina Faso. Individual surveys and focus groups were carried out with 240 farm managers exactly in 11 villages across 3 provinces in the southern Sudanian zone and 10 villages in 2 provinces in the northern Sudanian zone. These surveys revealed agricultural practices in both zones, including monoculture, intercropping, and crop rotation. Crop rotation was dominant (80% of farmers) and alternates with other food crops and sometimes cash crops. The use of local varieties was predominant, but the use of inputs remained limited : 89.2% of farmers applied less than 10 t/ha of organic fertilizer (compost, manure, poultry droppings, household waste, biochar) and 60.8% used less than 100 kg/ha of mineral fertilizers (NPK, urea). Furthermore,significant constraints hampered production: poor soil quality (25.8%), lack of funds to purchase fertilizers (29.46%), and low rainfall (19.10%). Thus, to increase the production of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes in Burkina, it would be beneficial to improve soil fertility management, access to inputs and climate-adapted support strategies.

Evaluation of Powdery Mildew Resistance in Northwest Himalayan Bread Wheat Landraces and Doubled Haploid Lines

2026-11-02T10:59:35+00:00

Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici, is an important disease of bread wheat in the cool, humid hill environments of Himachal Pradesh. This study evaluated powdery mildew development in 50 bread wheat genotypes comprising 16 doubled haploid (DH) lines, 29 north-west Himalayan landraces and five checks. The trial was conducted at Palampur during the 2021–2022 Rabi season under natural epiphytotic conditions using a randomised block design with three replications. Disease reactions were recorded on a 0–9 scale at five Zadoks growth stages (Z20, Z30, Z41, Z51 and Z69). Disease progression was assessed using the area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) and relative AUDPC (rAUDPC). No genotype remained entirely free from powdery mildew. The mean disease score increased from 1.24 at Z20 to 6.16 at Z69. AUDPC values ranged from 100.5 in DH-114 to 313.0 in T-79, with a mean of 200.5 (95% confidence interval: 185.4–215.6). Nine genotypes recorded AUDPC values below 150, including four DH lines, three landraces and two checks. Mean AUDPC was higher in landraces (215.8) than in DH lines (180.5), although the reported comparison among germplasm categories was not statistically significant (Kruskal–Wallis P = 0.082). These findings identify genotypes with relatively slow disease progression under the tested conditions and support their further evaluation as potential sources of resistance to powdery mildew.

Carbon Sequestration and Aggregation Potentials of Soils Overlying Different Geological Formations in Selected Parts of Anambra State, Nigeria

2026-11-02T11:36:04+00:00

Background: Soil organic carbon sequestration and aggregation play important roles in maintaining soil fertility, improving soil structural stability and mitigating climate change. Geological formations influence soil physicochemical properties, which may affect carbon storage capacity and aggregate stability.

Aim: This study assessed soil carbon stocks and aggregation indices in soils developed over four geological formations in selected areas of Anambra State, Nigeria.

Study Design: A comparative field and laboratory investigation was conducted across the Alluvial Plain, Ameki, Imo Shale and Ogwashi-Asaba formations.

Methodology: Soil samples from secondary-forest sites were examined at three depth intervals (0–30, 30–60 and 60–90 cm). Particle-size distribution, soil organic carbon, soil carbon stock and aggregation indices were assessed using laboratory methods and statistical analyses.

Results: Soil texture ranged from sandy loam in the Alluvial Plain to loamy sand in Ameki and Ogwashi-Asaba and clay loam in Imo Shale. Organic carbon was highest in the Alluvial Plain (0.97 g kg⁻¹) and lowest in Ogwashi-Asaba (0.23 g kg⁻¹). Corresponding carbon stocks were 4.40 and 1.10 t C ha⁻¹, respectively. Mean weight diameter ranged from 0.50 mm in Ameki to 0.64 mm in Imo Shale. Imo Shale recorded the highest state of aggregation (22.08%) and aggregate stability (28.04%), whereas Ogwashi-Asaba recorded the lowest values (12.13% and 14.61%, respectively). Carbon stock declined with increasing depth. Organic carbon was positively correlated with aggregate stability (r = 0.33), while state of aggregation and aggregate stability were strongly correlated (r = 0.80).

Conclusion: The findings indicate differences in carbon stocks and aggregation indices among the studied geological formations and support consideration of site-specific soil management practices.

Foliar Application of Chelated Micronutrients, Gibberellic Acid and Biofertilisers Improves Vegetative Growth, Fruit Retention and Yield of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Bhagwa

2026-11-03T07:13:43+00:00

Pomegranate orchards in the Marathwada region of Maharashtra frequently exhibit suboptimal canopy development and heavy fruitlet abscission, both of which limit marketable yield. A two-year field experiment was conducted during the mrig bahar seasons of 2018–19 and 2019–20 at Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, on five-year-old Bhagwa trees to quantify the responses of vegetative growth, flowering behaviour, fruit retention and yield to eleven foliar treatments comprising chelated micronutrients (3.0 and 4.0 g L⁻¹), gibberellic acid (75 and 100 ppm), the biofertiliser consortium Biomix (0.3 and 0.4%), their combinations and an unsprayed control, each applied three times, at 45, 90 and 135 days after flowering. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomised Block Design with two propagation methods (air-layered and tissue-cultured plants) and two replications. Pooled over seasons, the three-way combination of chelated micronutrients at 3.0 g L⁻¹ + GA₃ at 75 ppm + Biomix at 0.3% (N₈) produced the tallest trees (255.53 cm at 90 DAF against 187.57 cm in the control), the greatest number of branches per plant (16.58 against 11.51), the most leaves per branch (1097.80 against 806.02) and the widest stem girth (17.23 cm against 13.04 cm). The same treatment advanced flowering, lowered fruit drop and recorded the highest yield of 18.27 kg per plant and 13.52 t ha⁻¹, exceeding the control by 47.3 per cent, while the control gave only 12.40 kg per plant and 9.18 t ha⁻¹. Fruit set and the number of fruits retained at harvest responded differently, with the highest values recorded under GA₃ at 100 ppm (81.52 and 70.94 per plant, respectively). Three sprays of chelated micronutrients at 3.0 g L⁻¹ + GA₃ at 75 ppm + Biomix at 0.3% are therefore recommended for improving the productivity of Bhagwa pomegranate under Marathwada conditions.

Assessment of Seeding Methods and Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics, Crop Performance and Profitability in Rice-Safflower System

2026-11-03T07:56:59+00:00

Rice–safflower cropping systems face challenges related to crop establishment, rice-residue management and weed competition, which can adversely affect safflower productivity and profitability. A field experiment was conducted at the Research-cum-Instructional Farm of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh during the Kharif and Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2021-22 to assess the effects of sowing methods and weed management practices in a direct-seeded rice-based cropping system with rice residue retention on weed dynamics and productivity. During the Kharif season, rice was sown directly following standard agronomic practices, while during the Rabi season, safflower was grown using a split-plot design comprising three sowing methods namely zero seed drill, happy seed drill and normal seed drill (with soil preparation only by rotavator) in the main plots and three weed management practices namely chemical weed control, hand weeding twice and unweeded check in the subplots, with three replications. The happy seed drill resulted in significantly higher seed and stover yields of safflower (1381 and 3459 kg ha^-1, respectively). Hand weeding twice resulted in higher seed and stover yields of safflower (1629 and 4050 kg ha^-1_,respectively). Weed density was lowest in the hand weeding twice treatment, with mean values of 3.61, 3.80 and 4.68 at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing, respectively and a maximum weed control efficiency of 80.24% compared with unweeded check. Maximum gross returns (7.28 and 8.56 10³ x ₹ha^-1), net returns (4.72 and 5.60 10³ x ₹ha^-1), benefit–cost ratios (2.80 and 2.88), rice equivalent yield (mean value of 3909 and 4614 kg ha^-1) system productivity (mean value of 8737 and 9442 kg ha^-1) and production efficiency (mean value of 11.64 and 12.28 kg ha^-1day^-1) of safflower were recorded under happy seed drill and hand weeding twice.

Nominal Mass and Total-Nutrient Equivalents of Local Organic Manure Handling Units in Katsina State, Nigeria

2026-11-03T08:06:23+00:00

Aim: To calculate nominal mass and total-nutrient equivalents for four organic-material categories across three Katsina State locations and examine the arithmetic implications of an illustrative phosphorus-input benchmark.

Materials and Methods: Four material categories (poultry manure, town waste, cow dung, and goat/sheep manure) and six locally named handling units were described for Charanchi, Kafur, and Mai'Adua. Numerical summary masses were available for cement bags, jumbo sacks, and pickup loads. Reported concentrations of total N, P₂O₅, and K₂O were combined with nominal masses by deterministic calculation. Independent weight records, replicate dispersion, and the analytical moisture basis were unavailable.

Results: Poultry-manure P₂O₅ concentrations were 2.21%–3.38%, compared with 1.43%–1.69% for town waste. Nominal jumbo-sack masses ranged from 76.8 kg (poultry manure) to 168.0 kg (town waste). For a benchmark of at least 30 kg total P₂O₅ ha⁻¹, whole-jumbo-sack counts for poultry manure, town waste, cow dung, and goat/sheep manure were 18, 13, 13, and 26 at Charanchi; 12, 11, 17, and 13 at Kafur; and 14, 12, 18, and 12 at Mai'Adua. The accompanying calculated total N inputs were 0.74–7.49 kg ha⁻¹. All derived values are conditional on the stated masses and composition percentages.

Conclusion: Locally named units can be associated with transparent illustrative total-nutrient calculations, but the corresponding container masses cannot be treated as independently validated field measurements. Low reported N concentrations, unconfirmed compatibility of mass and analytical bases, and undocumented source variability preclude deriving manure application recommendations or millet nutrient requirements from these calculations.

Assessment of Genetic Divergence and Yield-related Traits in Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

2026-11-03T11:07:51+00:00

Green gram is an important pulse crop, but the identification of diverse parental material remains relevant to improving yield-related traits. This investigation assessed genetic divergence among 48 green gram genotypes using 15 quantitative characters, including seed yield per plant. The genotypes were evaluated in a randomised block design with three replications at B. N. College of Agriculture, Assam Agricultural University, Biswanath Chariali. Observations were obtained from five randomly selected plants per replication, and divergence was assessed using Mahalanobis D² statistics and Tocher’s clustering method. The genotypes were grouped into six clusters. Cluster III contained the largest number of genotypes (19), followed by cluster IV (16), cluster II (8), cluster I (3) and clusters V and VI (one each). The greatest intra-cluster distance was recorded in cluster IV (144.76), whereas the largest inter-cluster distance occurred between clusters I and V (301.82). Seeds per pod contributed most to divergence (27.93%), followed by 100-seed weight (20.45%); together, these traits accounted for 48.38% of the total. Cluster VI recorded the highest mean seed yield per plant (54.81), while cluster V had the highest mean number of seeds per pod (12.00). These findings identify contrasting clusters and yield-related traits that may inform preliminary parent selection. However, the performance of proposed crosses requires further evaluation before their breeding value can be established.

Efficacy and Crop Safety of Reduced dose Herbicide Mixtures for Weed Management in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)

2026-11-04T11:19:03+00:00

A major perennial legume throughout the world, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is becoming more popular in Africa, where sustainable production depends on effective weed management. The most popular approach is chemical weed control, which mostly uses the herbicide imazethapyr. However, depending solely on one herbicide may result in inconsistent weed control in the field and cause environmental issues due to the use of greater pesticide concentrations. To address this issue, a two-year (2024 and 2025) field study was carried out to reduce the use of herbicides and find eco-friendly ways to manage weeds using herbicide combinations in Navrongo, Ghana during the rainy season. Imazapic, prometryn, imazethapyr, and 2,4-DB were shown to be safe and efficient in managing broadleaf weeds during the initial screening. Each broadleaf herbicide was combined with haloxyfop-R-methyl to increase the control spectrum and reduce the overall herbicide dosage. Haloxyfop-R-methyl + imazethapyr (36.5 + 56.5 g a. i. ha^-1) effectively reduced herbicide input by at least 25% of the acceptable dose while providing broad spectrum weed control without impairing alfalfa performance. Furthermore, the combination of 2,4-DB (36.5 + 506.5 g a. i. ha-1) and haloxyfop-R-methyl produced excellent broad-spectrum weed control, enhanced alfalfa yield, and reduced total herbicide input by almost 25% of the prescribed dose. Imazethapyr controlled all the broadleaf weeds (Biden pilosa and Amaranthus spinosus L.) and grass weeds (>98%) effectively. Haloxyfop-R-methyl + imazethapyr exhibited a mixed dose response; a higher application dose resulted in to a drop in plant height and an increase in fresh and dry weight. The leaf area was 10% greater, the crop biomass at 36.5 + 56.5 g a. i. ha-1 was not substantially different from the weed-free control, and the weed control was more than 98% for both grass and broadleaf weeds. The mixture of haloxyfop-R-methyl + 2,4-DB at a dosage of 36.5 + 506.5 enhanced the leaf area by 8% while the crop's fresh and dry weights were approximately equivalent to those in the weed-free control. These combinations provide a crucial alternative for managing broadleaf weeds and reduce the need for frequent imazethapyr treatments. Therefore, these herbicide mixes provide safe, effective, and sustainable ways to manage weeds in alfalfa production.

Effect of Apical Cutting on the Growth of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) at the Site of Hummay Salamna University of Diffa, Niger

2026-11-05T12:03:10+00:00

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is an important vegetable crop that contributes to dietary diversification and farmers’ incomes. Improving cucumber productivity and quality remains an important agronomic and economic challenge. However, cucumber cultivation is often characterised by low yields and high mineral fertiliser costs. Cutting the apical tip of the main stem is an agronomic practice that may improve crop performance. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of apical cutting on cucumber growth. The trial was conducted during the 2025 rainy season at the Hummay Salamna University site using a factorial randomised complete block design with four replications. During the vegetative stage, approximately 5 cm of the main-stem apex was removed using pruning shears previously disinfected with alcohol. The results showed that apical cutting significantly increased collar diameter, plant height, the numbers of primary and secondary branches, the number of buds and leaf area. Responses to apical cutting varied among varieties according to the parameter measured. Further studies in other climatic areas of Niger are needed to confirm these effects on cucumber growth and yield and to identify the most appropriate stage for apical cutting.

Weather and Agrometeorological Indices in Relation to Phenology, Growth and Yield of Rainfed Pearl Millet under Different Growing Environments

2026-11-06T09:43:48+00:00

Agrometeorological assessment of crop phenology and productivity helps to understand crop–weather relationships and the effects of thermal and radiation resources on crop performance. In rainfed areas, where crop development is strongly influenced by prevailing weather conditions, thermal indices are useful for assessing phenological development, resource-use efficiency and yield. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2022 at the Research Farm Area, Department of Agricultural Meteorology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, to study the effect of sowing dates and varieties on phenology, thermal indices, heat use efficiency and yield of rainfed pearl millet under semi-arid conditions. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomised block design with three sowing dates (24^th June, 18^th July and 10^th August) and three varieties (GHB 558, HHB 67 Improved and HHB 197), with four replications. Growing degree days, heliothermal units, photothermal units and heat use efficiency were calculated to assess the thermal and radiation conditions during crop growth. Heavy rainfall of 190.8 mm during Standard Meteorological Weeks 38^th–39^th caused prolonged waterlogging in the 10^th August sown crop, severely damaging it before physiological maturity. The 24^th June sown crop recorded greater accumulation of growing degree days, heliothermal units and photothermal units, a longer crop duration and a higher grain yield (3974.5 kg ha⁻¹) than the 18^th July sowing (2976.3 kg ha⁻¹). It also recorded higher heat use efficiency (2.49 kg ha⁻¹ °Cday⁻¹) than the 18^th July sowing (2.06 kg ha⁻¹ °Cday⁻¹). Among varieties, GHB 558 recorded the highest grain yield (4026.0 kg ha⁻¹), 1000-grain weight (9.98 g), biological yield (14531.3 kg ha⁻¹) and heat use efficiency (2.58 kg ha⁻¹ °Cday⁻¹). Delayed sowing reduced the accumulation of thermal indices and shortened the crop growing period. Grain yield showed significant positive relationships with growing degree days (r = 0.72**), heliothermal units (r = 0.73**) and photothermal units (r = 0.71**), while bright sunshine hours showed a strong positive relationship (r = 0.96**) and evening relative humidity showed a negative relationship (r = −0.84*). Regression analysis showed strong relationships between thermal indices and phenological development (R² = 0.97–0.99), whereas the combined model incorporating growing degree days, heliothermal units and photothermal units explained 54.2 per cent of the variation in grain yield (R² = 0.542, p = 0.001). The study indicated that timely sowing during late June, particularly with GHB 558, resulted in better utilisation of thermal resources and higher productivity of rainfed pearl millet, while delayed sowing increased the risk of yield reduction due to unfavourable weather conditions.

Field Evaluation of Fungicides for the Management of Purple Blotch Disease of Onion Seed Crop Caused by Alternaria porri

2026-11-06T10:42:01+00:00

Purple blotch, caused by Alternaria porri (Ellis) Cif., is a major disease affecting onion seed production. A field experiment was conducted at the Research Farm of the Department of Plant Pathology, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, to evaluate the efficacy of eight fungicidal treatments against purple blotch in the ‘Pilipati’ onion cultivar, with an untreated control included for comparison. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with three replications. Onion bulbs were planted on 2 December 2025, and artificial inoculation was carried out on 5 January 2026. Fungicides were applied at disease onset, followed by two additional applications at 15-day intervals. Disease intensity was assessed seven days after the final spray, and seed yield was recorded at harvest. All fungicidal treatments were associated with lower disease intensity and higher seed yield than the untreated control. Tebuconazole 50 + trifloxystrobin 25 WG at 0.1 per cent recorded the lowest disease intensity (12.48%) and highest seed yield (670 kg ha⁻¹). Azoxystrobin 18.2 + tebuconazole 18.30 SC at 0.025 per cent recorded 17.28% disease intensity and a seed yield of 657 kg ha⁻¹ and was statistically comparable to the former treatment. The untreated control recorded 68.49% disease intensity and 428 kg ha⁻¹ seed yield. These findings indicate that the two leading fungicide combinations provided comparatively favourable disease and seed-yield outcomes under the conditions of this field trial.

Growth Response of Cashew Seedlings and Soil Properties to Cocoa Pod Husk and Cashew Leaf Litter Amendments at the Nursery Stage in South Western Nigeria

2026-11-09T10:54:49+00:00

Background: Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important tropical plantation crop, yet productivity remains below potential due to poor nutrient management and underutilization of available organic residues.

Aim: The study aims to assess the influence of cocoa pod husk (CPH) and cashew leaf litter (CLL) on cashew seedling growth and soil properties.

Objectives: The objectives of the study were to: i. Determine the effects of different rates of cocoa pod husk and cashew leaf litter on the growth of cashew seedlings; ii. Assess the effects of the organic amendments on selected soil properties; and iii. Identify the amendment and application rate that gives the best response in cashew seedling growth under nursery conditions.

Study Design: A completely randomised design (CRD) was adopted. Seven treatments were evaluated: no organic amendment (control), 26.67 kg/t CPH, 40 kg/t CPH, 26.67 kg/t CLL, 40 kg/t CLL, 13.33 kg/t CPH + 13.33 kg/t CLL and 20 kg/t CPH + 20 kg/t CLL, each replicated three times. Data were collected on plant height, number of leaves, stem diameter and leaf area. Soil samples were analysed before and after the experiment.

Place and Duration of Study: A screen house experiment was conducted at the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria, Ibadan, Oyo State, for three months.

Methodology: The CLL was air-dried, milled and sieved prior to use. Polythene bags measuring 25 cm × 12.5 cm were each filled with 1.5 kg of topsoil, watered to field capacity, and arranged on a raised platform.

Statistical Analysis: Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using Minitab 17 statistical software, and treatment means were separated using Duncan's multiple range test (DMRT) at the 5% level of probability.

Results: The results showed that organic amendments improved seedling growth performance relative to the unamended control. Seedlings receiving 20 kg/t CPH + 20 kg/t CLL recorded the highest values for plant height, stem diameter and leaf area at 12 weeks after treatment application. Post-experimental soil analysis revealed notable improvements in organic matter, calcium and magnesium contents in most amended soils. Progressive seedling growth improvement was attributed to continuous nutrient release from decomposing organic materials and enhanced soil conditions.

Conclusion: The combined application of 20 kg/t CPH + 20 kg/t CLL demonstrated the greatest potential for optimizing cashew seedling growth and soil fertility, suggesting that it may be a viable organic nutrient management option for nursery production.

Plant Growth Dynamics of Statice (Limonium sinuatum L.) Influenced by Fertilization and 6-Benzylaminopurine Application

2026-11-09T11:02:59+00:00

The present investigation was conducted at the Experimental Farm, Division of Floriculture and Landscaping, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, Main Campus, Chatha, Jammu and Kashmir, during 2024–2025. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising 16 treatment combinations, each replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of four fertilization regimes: F₁, 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF; 150:125:75 kg NPK ha⁻¹); F₂, 75% RDF + humic acid (HA) at 5 g m⁻²; F₃, 50% RDF + HA at 10 g m⁻²; and F₄, 25% RDF + HA at 15 g m⁻², along with four concentrations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP): B₁, control (no application); B₂, 50 ppm; B₃, 100 ppm; and B₄, 150 ppm. The results revealed that the application of 75% RDF supplemented with HA at 5 g m⁻² resulted in the maximum plant height (67.25 cm), plant spread (75.08 cm), shoot fresh weight (260.80 g), root fresh weight (26.85 g) and root: shoot ratio (0.27). In contrast, 100% RDF recorded the highest leaf area (79.55 cm²), chlorophyll content, number of leaves per plant (70.82) and shoot dry weight (66.80 g). Among the BAP treatments, foliar application at 150 ppm was the most effective in improving vegetative growth. Overall, the combination of 75% RDF + HA at 5 g m⁻² and 150 ppm BAP emerged as the most promising treatment combination for enhancing vegetative growth in statice, indicating the potential to reduce mineral fertilizer application while improving plant growth through the integrated use of humic acid and BAP.