International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Effect of Potassium Levels on Soil and Leaf Nutrient Status of Nagpur Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)

Pradeep K. Mitharwal — 2026-04-01

Potassium regulates enzymatic activities and stomatal movement, improving water-use efficiency and sugar transport within plants. Along with phosphorus, it supports rapid root growth and promotes protein synthesis. It also improves plant health and resistance to diseases, pests, and nematodes. Potassium deficiency reduces photosynthesis and yield, while excess nitrogen with low potassium can lead to poor fruiting and physiological disorders. The study highlights the significance of balanced and split potassium application along with foliar nutrition in enhancing macro- and micronutrient uptake, which is crucial for sustainable citrus production systems. A field experiment was conducted during 2022–23 at farmers’ fields in Pardi and Sawandri villages of Nagpur district on 10–12-year-old fruit-bearing orchards. The experiment included different potassium treatments and was laid out in a Randomized Block Design. Among all treatments, T₉ (RDF + 300 g K at BT (December) + 300 g K after 60 days + KNO₃ @ 1.5% spray after 90 days) was found significantly superior over other treatments. This treatment recorded higher leaf nutrient concentrations, including total nitrogen (2.19 and 2.29%), total phosphorus (0.099 and 0.123%), total potassium (1.40 and 1.46%), and total sulphur (0.24 and 0.23%) at Pardi and Sawandri villages, respectively. Similarly, total micronutrient content in leaves was also higher under this treatment, with iron (79.46 and 79.47 mg kg⁻¹), zinc (18.50 and 19.34 mg kg⁻¹), manganese (61.51 and 62.79 mg kg⁻¹), and copper (14.00 and 14.17 mg kg⁻¹) at Pardi and Sawandri, respectively. In addition, improved soil nutrient availability was observed with the same potassium treatment. The values recorded were nitrogen (322.50 and 331.30 kg ha⁻¹), potassium (498.19 and 435.32 kg ha⁻¹), iron (7.29 and 7.33 mg kg⁻¹), and zinc (0.86 and 0.84 mg kg⁻¹) at Pardi and Sawandri villages, respectively. Overall, the results indicated that the combined application of RDF with split doses of potassium and foliar spray of KNO₃ significantly enhanced both leaf nutrient status and soil nutrient availability in Nagpur mandarin orchards.

Agroforestry Shading Mitigates Light Stress in Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) by Improving Photosystem II Efficiency Assessed via Chlorophyll Fluorescence (Fv/Fm)

Guei Stéphane-Hubert — 2026-04-03

Background: Cocoa is a shade-tolerant species. Excessive light can induce photo-oxidative stress and photosystem II (PSII) photoinhibition in cocoa. In agroforestry, the tree canopy plays a key role in modulating the light microclimate and could therefore contribute to cocoa photoprotection.

Aims: This study evaluates the effect of different agroforestry shading levels on PSII efficiency, estimated from the maximum photochemical yield (Fv/Fm) measured after dark adaptation.

Study Design: Field experiment comparing three light environments on mature cocoa trees (O0: full sun; O1: moderate shade; O2: dense shade).

Place of Study: Experimental cocoa agroforestry sites in Côte d’Ivoire (Azaguie, Soubré, and Blé/Divo).

Methodology: Three light environments were implemented on mature cocoa trees: full direct light (O0), partial shade (approximately 30%, O1), and dense shade (30–60%, O2). The effect of shade on Fv/Fm was assessed using a Kruskal–Wallis test complemented by post hoc analyses (α = 5%).

Results: Shade had a significant effect on PSII efficiency (p-value = 0.009). Cocoa trees under full sunlight showed a reduced Fv/Fm ratio (0.752 ± 0.015), indicating strong photoinhibition, whereas trees under moderate shade (0.796 ± 0.003) and dense shade (0.785 ± 0.005) exhibited markedly higher values. O1 and O2 did not differ significantly, suggesting that a moderate shade level is sufficient to provide effective protection against light stress.

Conclusion: These results indicate that agroforestry shade reduces light stress in cocoa while increasing PSII performance. They highlight the value of moderate shade as a management approach to prevent photoinhibition. It is recommended that future studies should assess long-term yield and physiological resilience under optimised shade regimes.

Assessment of Farmers’ Knowledge on Soil Sampling Procedures and Soil Test Based Nutrient Management in Karimnagar District of Telangana, India

K. Madan Mohan Reddy — 2026-04-03

Soil testing and soil health card (SHC)-based nutrient management are pivotal components of sustainable agriculture. This study evaluated the knowledge level of 120 farmers in Karimnagar district, Telangana State, India, concerning soil sampling procedures and soil test-based fertilizer recommendations. Employing an ex-post facto research design with a pre-tested structured interview schedule, data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The findings reveal that a majority of respondents (60%) possessed a medium level of knowledge, while 24.17% demonstrated high knowledge and 15.83% showed low knowledge. The highest awareness was recorded for the availability of soil testing services (88.33%), the need to apply nitrogen in three split doses in paddy (87.50%), and the role of balanced fertilization in maintaining soil health (85.83%). Conversely, knowledge gaps were most pronounced concerning the recommended zinc sulphate dose for correcting zinc deficiency in paddy (56.67%), the prescribed quantity of muriate of potash for paddy (58.33%), and the variation of fertilizer dose for paddy with soil test values (57.50%). Correlation analysis identified education (r = 0.462**), training undergone (r = 0.518**), extension contact (r = 0.487**), scientific orientation (r = 0.436**), and innovativeness (r = 0.401**) as highly significant predictors of knowledge at the 1% level. Farm size (r = 0.298*), economic motivation (r = 0.321*), and achievement motivation (r = 0.354*) were significant at the 5% level. Age and farming experience did not exhibit significant relationships with knowledge. These results underline the critical need for targeted extension training, field demonstrations, and digital outreach to bridge knowledge gaps and enhance adoption of soil test-based nutrient management among farming communities.

Impact of Actiwave Biostimulant on Physiological Traits, Nutrient Content and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

S. Lakshmi — 2026-04-04

Nowadays, seaweeds are more and more being utilized as plant biostimulants for the improvement of plant performance. Actiwave is a biostimulant product extracted from seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum and three main components of Actiwave are betaines, alginic acid and caidrine. Hence, the objective of the present study is to evaluate the impact of Actiwave on the growth, physiology, nutrient uptake and yield of tomato under open field conditions. The field experiments were carried out at Eastern Block Farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural university, Coimbatore during December 2021 – April 2022 (Season I) and June 2022 – October 2022 (Season II). The Actiwave biostimulant applied in three doses at the rate of 5.0 L ha⁻¹ (Act 1), 10.0 L ha⁻¹(Act 2), 20.0 L ha⁻¹(Act 3) into the soil at 45 and 60 days after transplanting. The Actiwave treatments showed a positive influence on plant performance, however, the most significant results were observed in Actiwave 10.0 L ha⁻¹(Act 2), which enhanced the SPAD value, photosynthetic rate, total dry matter production, leaf and stem nutrient content (N, P, K), average fruit weight, fruit yield per plant and yield per hectare of tomato. Hence, the use of Actiwave on tomato could be an effective way to boost production sustainably.

Study of Biocontrol Efficacy of SiO2 Nanoparticles Combined with PGPR (Pseudomonas spp. and Bacillus spp.) against Rhizoctonia solani in Tomato Plants

Merajul Islam Robab — 2026-04-04

Silica nanoparticles have been found to improve rhizosphere microbial diversity while suppressing pathogenic microorganisms by modifying community composition and increasing beneficial taxonomic abundance, hence aiding disease resistance. In the present study, the effect of silicon dioxide Nanoparticles (SiO₂-NPs) combined with plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) on the seedling (Morphological) characters and stomatal function of Tomato plant Variety (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. cv. PKM-1) were studied. The experiment was carried out from the month of October-2025 to November-2025 in Green House at Botany Section, School of Sciences, MANUU. Where healthy and uniform sized-seeds were selected for sowing in pots and they were treated with inoculum and PGPR at 4-leaf stage. The treatments were labelled as control (Untreated), PGPR alone, Combined SiO₂ NPs + PGPR with three replications each. The results indicated that all the growth parameters shown highest mean values for the plants treated with SiO₂ NPs + PGPR, which is followed by PGPR alone followed by the control (Untreated).The ANOVA results indicated that all the treatments were found to be significant. The functioning of stomata was observed to be advantageous to the tomato plants treated with combined SiO₂ NPs + PGPR when compared with PGPR alone treated plants and control (Untreated) plants.

Effect of Bio-inoculants Seed Treatment on Growth and Yield of Wheat in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya, India

Tabita M Marak — 2026-04-06

Wheat has been an integral food crop since human civilization. The crop has multiple roles in food system and consumed in a several ways i.e. chapati, bread, biscuit, cake etc. For effective, quality and sufficient productivity, crop nutrition must be ensured. Addition of bio-fertilizers are the cheapest source of crop nutrition as well as sustainable management practice. Hence, to evaluate the effectiveness of different bio-inoculants a field experiment was conducted to on biofertilizers seed treatments and its combinations effect on the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the rabi season. The study included seed inoculation with different biofertilizers such as T₁: control plot, T₂: Trichoderma at 10g kg^-1 seed, T₃: Azotobactor at 10ml kg^-1 seed, T₄: PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria) at 10ml kg^-1 seed, T₅: KSB (Potassium solubilizing bacteria) at 10ml kg^-1 seed, T₆: ZSB (Zinc solubilizing bacteria) at 10 ml kg^-1 seed. The results revealed that biofertilizer application significantly influenced growth parameters including plant height, number of tillers, dry matter accumulation, and crop growth rate. Yield attributes such as number of spikes m⁻², spike length, and grains spike⁻¹ were also significantly improved compared with the control. Among the treatments, seed treatment with ZSB at 10 ml kg⁻¹ seed recorded the highest growth and yield attributes, resulting in greater grain (1333.3 kg ha^-1) and straw yield (2500 kg ha^-1). The highest gross return (₹ 66,666), net return (₹ 35393), and benefit–cost (2.13) ratio were recorded under seed treatment with ZSB at 10 ml kg⁻¹ seed (T₆), which can be attributed from its superior growth and yield attributes. The improvement in crop performance may be attributed to enhanced nutrient solubilization, improved nutrient uptake, and increased microbial activity in the rhizosphere. The findings suggest that biofertilizer application can be an effective and sustainable strategy for improving the growth and productivity of wheat.

Effect of Gamma Radiation on M1 Generation of Two Aromatic Rice Varieties and Determination of Their Lethal Dose

Md. Tazul Islam — 2026-04-06

Gamma irradiation is a potent tool for inducing genetic variation in aromatic rice. This study evaluated the effects of gamma radiation on the M₁ generation of two aromatic rice varieties, Chinigura (local) and Banglamati (released), and determined their lethal dose (LD₅₀) based on plant survival. One hundred grams of seeds from each variety were irradiated at 0, 100, 200, 250, 300, and 400 Gy at the laboratory of the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA). The experiment followed a split-plot design with three replications and was conducted at the BINA Sub-station, Sunamganj, Bangladesh. Before irradiation, germination tests were performed under laboratory conditions (27 ± 2°C). Increasing radiation doses caused marked reductions in germination percentage, seedling height, fresh and dry biomass, tiller number, and survival. At 400 Gy, germination declined from 100% in the control to 87.0% in Chinigura and 81.3% in Banglamati. By 21 DAS, seedling height decreased by 16.7% and 19.4%, fresh weight by 51.0% and 45.6%, and dry matter by 48% in both varieties. Tiller number was reduced by nearly 50% at the highest dose. Survival declined linearly with increasing doses, and regression analysis estimated LD₅₀ values of 205.74 Gy for Chinigura and 325.92 Gy for Banglamati, indicating greater radiosensitivity in Chinigura and higher tolerance in Banglamati. These LD₅₀ values provide a key reference for mutation breeding and varietal improvement in aromatic rice.

Enhancing Nutrient Use Efficiency in Semi-arid Lowland Rice through Deep Placement of NPK Briquettes

Achille Sawadogo — 2026-04-07

Background: Global food security remains under increasing pressure due to rapid population growth and limited natural resources, particularly in developing regions reliant on staple crops such as rice. In Burkina Faso, low soil fertility, inefficient fertiliser use, and climate variability significantly constrain rice productivity, highlighting the need for more efficient nutrient management strategies such as deep fertiliser placement.

Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of deep placement of NPK briquettes on nitrogen and phosphorus use efficiency in lowland rice systems under semi-arid conditions in Burkina Faso.

Study Design: A completely randomized experimental design with three replications was used to compare different fertilizer management practices.

Place and Duration of the Study: The experiment was conducted in a lowland rice production area in the semi-arid zone of Burkina Faso during the 2022–2023 cropping season.

Methodology: Five fertilizer treatments were tested: (i) control without fertilizer; (ii) farmer’s practice (150 kg ha⁻¹ NPK + 100 kg ha⁻¹ prilled urea); (iii) 150 kg ha⁻¹ NPK + 1.8 g urea super granule (USG); (iv) two 1.8 g NPK super granules (SG-NPK); and (v) two 1.8 g SG-NPK + 100 kg ha⁻¹ prilled urea. Agronomic efficiency (AE), internal efficiency (IE), physiological efficiency (PE), and partial factor productivity (PFP) were calculated for each treatment. Data were analyzed using ANOVA in GenStat (12th edition).

Results: The combination of two SG-NPK with 100 kg ha⁻¹ prilled urea increased internal and physiological nitrogen use efficiency by 32.86% and 203.58%, respectively, compared with the farmer’s practice. The highest phosphorus agronomic efficiency (38.45 kg paddy kg⁻¹ P applied) was obtained with 150 kg ha⁻¹ NPK + 1.8 g USG. This treatment also produced the highest partial factor productivity (61.09 kg paddy kg⁻¹ N and 119.03 kg paddy kg⁻¹ P applied).

Conclusion: Deep placement of NPK briquettes significantly improves nutrient use efficiency in lowland rice under semi-arid conditions, suggesting its potential as an effective strategy for optimizing nitrogen and phosphorus management.

Development of a Prototype Model of Smart Irrigation Systems for Sustainable Water Conservation in Agriculture

Durgesh Kumar — 2026-04-08

Smart irrigation systems have emerged as one of the promising solutions to curb the parsimoniousness of water in the farming sector among many initiatives. The study aims to design and develop a cost-effective smart irrigation system using soil moisture and environmental sensors with a microcontroller to optimize water use based on real-time field conditions. A smart irrigation system was conceptualized and designed using CATIA (Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) software to optimize water management in agricultural settings. The system integrated four main subsystems: water management infrastructure, a sensor network, an IoT-based control unit, and a water delivery mechanism, implemented at Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand University, Soil Conservation Brahmanand P.G. College, and Maya Devi University. Soil moisture sensors, weather stations, soil probes, and ambient condition sensors were deployed to monitor real-time environmental and soil parameters, supporting accurate irrigation decisions. An ESP32/Arduino-based IoT controller processed sensor data, triggered irrigation using closed-loop feedback logic, and enabled cloud connectivity for remote monitoring. Field simulation and testing under varying soil and environmental conditions validated the system’s adaptive and precise irrigation performance, demonstrating its potential to enhance water-use efficiency and support sustainable agriculture. The developed smart irrigation system demonstrated effective soil moisture–based automation, ensuring precise water application that prevented both over-irrigation and moisture stress in crops. IoT-enabled monitoring and control allowed remote access to soil moisture, environmental parameters, and system status, enhancing operational efficiency, reducing human intervention, and enabling timely decision-making. The system also integrated fertigation and crop health monitoring, delivering nutrients directly to the root zone while continuously assessing soil pH and salinity, thereby promoting balanced growth and sustainable soil management. Solar-powered operation ensured energy independence, high reliability, and suitability for remote agricultural settings. Overall, the developed model represents a practical, scalable solution for precision agriculture, with strong potential to improve water productivity, reduce labor dependence, and support sustainable farming practices, contributing to long-term agricultural resilience and resource conservation.

Impact of Organic Amendments (Dromedary Droppings and Cow Dung) on the Physico-chemical Properties of Three Arid Soils and their Water-holding Capacity

Timbe N’Djédanoum — 2026-04-08

Soils come from the arid region of Hadjer-Lamis (13°00′00″ N; 15°44′00″ E). Samples were taken in March 2025 at a depth of 0 to 20 cm. At the same time, dromedary droppings and cow dung were collected. The physicochemical characterization of the soils from Dandi, Karal, and Mani was carried out at the Soil, Water, and Plant Laboratory (SWPL) in Chad. The granulometric analysis gives the following results: clay: Dandi (19.5%), Karal (17%), Mani (14%); silt: Dandi (17.5%), Karal (7.5%), Mani (7%); sand: Dandi (63%), Karal (75.5%), Mani (79%). These soils are sandy-loam, chemical analyses indicate, Dandi: MOT (0.655%), CT (0.38%), EC (335 µS/cm), PT (192 ppm), pH (7.64), KT (478.00 mg/kg), CEC (13.34 meq/100 g); Karal: MOT (0.617%), CT (0.358%), EC (687 µS/cm), PT (279 ppm), pH (6.28), KT (994.00 mg/kg), CEC (24.50 meq/100 g). Mani: MOT (0.519%), CT (0.301%), EC (183 µS/cm), KT (384 ppm), pH (6.26), CEC (11 meq/100 g). dromedary droppings: MO (5.20%), pH (7.30), NT (0.033%), potassium (39 mg/l), PA (151.97 mg/kg), Na (86.50 mg/l), EC (2960 µS/cm), Cu (9.60 mg/l), Ca (750 mg/l); cow dung: OM (190 mg/kg), pH (9.2), NT (16 mg/kg), potassium (1.1 cmol/kg), PA (18.2 mg/kg), Na (0.1 cmol/kg), EC (250 µS/cm), Cu (8.1 mg/l), Ca (5 cmol/kg). The application of these organic amendments improves structure, porosity, and organic matter in the soil.

Estimation of Maize Crop Growth Rates in Telangana State by Coppock’s Instability Index

Bandi Srikanth — 2026-04-09

Agricultural growth and instability have remained subject of intense debate in the agricultural economics literature in India. Instability is a very essential characteristic of agriculture. Since agriculture is dependent on weather conditions, the area, production and yield of the crops are subject to significant variations over time. This study aims at studying the growth and instability in the Maize crop of India. Coppock’s instability index has been calculated, in order to assess the performance of area, production and productivity of maize in Telangana, the present study was taken up by estimating the patterns of growth and magnitude of instability. Time series data for the period 2002-03 to 2016-17. On area, production and productivity were collected. The instability of the area under maize in Telangana State was calculated by Coppock’s instability index. The period of study was divided into four periods to show variation in different periods (every five years), i.e. Period-I (2002-03 to 2006-07), Period-II (2007-08 to 2011-12), Period-III (2012-13 to 2016-17) and the overall period (2002-03 to 2016-17). It is revealed from the results that during Period-I, the highest instability in the area was observed in Nalgonda district (66.55 per cent) followed by Rangareddy, while lowest instability index percentage was observed in Adilabad (8.70 per cent) During overall period of study (Period-IV) instability of Telangana State was 16.63 per cent. During Period-I, the highest instability in production was observed in Nalgonda district (118.32 per cent), The instability in production recorded for Telangana State was 47.57 per cent. The coefficient of instability in productivity of maize during the overall period of study (Period-IV) of Mahabubnagar (113.21 per cent), in the productivity of Telangana State, was 28.95 per cent. It was concluded that there was no stability in area, production, productivity under maize crop in Telangana State over period of study.

Eco-friendly Management of Alternaria Leaf Spot of Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hooker F) Caused by Alternaria alternata (Pers.; Fr.) in North East India

Bishal Saikia — 2026-04-09

Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus ex. Hooker F) includes the family Asteraceae, is an enormous and extremely profitable cut flower, which is grown in a wide range of environmental conditions globally. Based on in vitro studies the highest percentage of mycelial growth inhibition was seen in Allium sativum (10% conc.) and T. harzianum (86.66% and 81.38%), respectively. Concurrently, Hexaconazole (0.1%) showed a maximum mycelial growth inhibition of 100.00% against A. alternata. The in vivo field experiments were conducted for two seasons at Horticulture experimental farm, AAU, Jorhat-13 in the year 2022 and Hexaconazole (0.1%) were recorded lowest disease incidence (16.52%) and per cent disease severity (11.76%) with highest per cent disease reduction (79.43% and 85.59%) of leaf spot caused by A. alternata. When gerbera was treated with T. harzianum [Org-Trichojal (@ 5ml/l)], the yield-attributing traits and growth parameters gradually enhanced.

Characterization of Calcium and Magnesium Status in Arecanut (Areca catechu L.) Growing Soils of Koppa, Sringeri and Thirthahalli Taluks of the Malnad Region

K. Reshma — 2026-04-10

A survey was taken up in the year 2022 in the arecanut gardens of three selected taluks of the Malnad region viz. Koppa, Sringeri and Thirthahalli. The soil samples were collected at surface (0-30 cm) and sub-surface (30-60 cm) depths in healthy and unhealthy arecanut gardens and were characterized for secondary nutrients like calcium and magnesium. The diverse geological characteristics, rainfall patterns, organic matter content and agricultural practices all collectively contribute to the observed variations in calcium and magnesium content among different fractions and soil depths in these taluks. Among the various calcium and magnesium forms (water-soluble, exchangeable and residual/non-exchangeable), water-soluble form (3.3%) consistently showed the lowest quantities in the soils. Exchangeable form (26.3%) was found to be lower than residual form (70.4%). Also, exchangeable (61.5%) and water-soluble (38.5%) fractions contribute to the soil available pool. All the four forms of calcium and magnesium were relatively lower in Thirthahalli soils in comparison to the soils of the other two taluks. This could be attributed to lower content of calcium and magnesium containing minerals in acid soils coupled with their high rate of solubilization, low amounts of 2:1 clays and excessive leaching losses of ions in acid soils.The research study provides valuable insights into the distribution and forms of calcium and magnesium in arecanut-growing soils of the Malnad region, which is an important area for arecanut cultivation in India. Understanding the status and fractionation of secondary nutrients such as calcium and magnesium is essential for improving soil fertility management and sustaining crop productivity. The study contributes region-specific soil nutrient information that can support better nutrient management strategies for farmers and agricultural researchers working in humid tropical soils.

Assessment of Farmers Knowledge and Adoption of Pea Cultivation Aspects in Ten Panchayats Seraj Valley, Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh, India

Rajeev Kumar — 2026-04-11

Assessing the knowledge level of farmers and identifying their specific training needs are essential steps for designing effective agricultural extension programs. A needs-based approach not only to ensures relevance and responsiveness but also enhances farmer participation and technology adoption. A comprehensive field survey was conducted across ten selected panchayats in the Seraj Valley of Mandi District, Himachal Pradesh, to assess farmers’ knowledge, practices and challenges related to pea cultivation and associated agricultural components. The study focused on various parameters, including farmer categories, field preparation methods, varietal usage, seed rate, seed treatment, fertilizer and irrigation practices, weed and disease management, spacing knowledge, yield, income levels, crop rotation and perceptions of climate change. Results revealed a predominance of marginal farmers in all locations, with Thunag and Shilli Baggi comprising entirely of marginal landholders, reflecting the fragmented hill farming system. Traditional field preparation methods still dominate in remote areas, while modern mechanization was observed in more accessible regions like Thunag and Chatri. Varietal adoption showed wide variation; Dhim Kataru recorded the highest usage of recommended varieties (48%), whereas Shilli Baggi and Thunag lagged. Encouragingly, many panchayats reported medium to high compliance with recommended seed rates. However, seed treatment remained notably low across villages, indicating major gaps in awareness or access to inputs. Fertilizer knowledge was high in some villages but alarmingly low in others, like Thana and Bagra Thach, pointing to uneven extension coverage. Spacing and weed management also reflected similar disparities, while disease management knowledge was generally limited, except in a few panchayats. Yield and income levels were closely linked, with low productivity corresponding to low earnings in most villages. Crop rotation was widely adopted, except in Chiuni, while irrigation access remained a significant limiting factor for productivity. Awareness of climate change was highest in Thunag and Dhim Kataru, but remained poor or unacknowledged in others. These findings highlight the need for location-specific interventions, targeted extension services, and improved access to resources to enhance the productivity and resilience of hill agriculture in the region. The findings call for a comprehensive and location-specific approach focusing on capacity building, improved input delivery, demonstration of best practices, and climate-resilient technologies. Strengthening local extension systems and ensuring equitable resource access can significantly enhance the livelihoods and resilience of small and marginal farmers in the Seraj Valley.

Effect of Integrated Nitrogen Management and Spacing on Soil Fertility Status and Soil Microbial Properties in Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata)

M. Y. Reddy — 2026-04-11

The adoption of integrated nitrogen management (INM); which entails the combined application of organic and inorganic nitrogen sources; has been widely recognised for its role in improving nutrient availability; enhancing soil fertility; and promoting sustainable agricultural production systems. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of integrated nitrogen management and plant geometry on soil fertility parameters and soil microbial properties in Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata Nees.); a medicinally important crop. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomised block design (FRBD); comprising four nitrogen source treatments with varying proportions of vermicompost and inorganic fertilisers; in combination with three plant spacing levels; thereby enabling a comprehensive assessment of their interactive effects on soil health indicators. Soil samples collected after harvest were analyzed for available nitrogen (N); phosphorus (P₂O₅); potassium (K₂O); and populations of major soil microorganisms such as actinomycetes; bacteria; and fungi. The results indicated that integrated nitrogen management had a significant influence on soil fertility status and microbial activity. Application of 100 per cent nitrogen through vermicompost resulted in significantly higher available soil nutrients; recording 189.90 kg ha⁻¹ of nitrogen; 24.91 kg ha⁻¹ of phosphorus; and 375.76 kg ha⁻¹ of potassium; compared to treatments receiving nitrogen solely through inorganic fertilizers. Vermicompost-based treatments also markedly improved soil biological properties by enhancing microbial populations; with the highest counts of actinomycetes (3.92 × 10⁴ cfu g⁻¹); bacteria (28.49 × 10⁶ cfu g⁻¹); and fungi (4.39 × 10⁵ cfu g⁻¹). This improvement may be attributed to increased organic matter content; better nutrient availability; and favorable soil conditions that support microbial proliferation. Plant spacing significantly influenced soil nutrient availability and bacterial population. Wider spacing (30 × 15 cm) resulted in higher available nitrogen; while spacing of 20 × 20 cm recorded higher phosphorus availability. The closest spacing (30 × 10 cm) registered maximum potassium availability and bacterial population. However; plant spacing did not significantly affect actinomycetes and fungal populations. Interaction effects between nitrogen sources and plant geometry were found to be non-significant for soil fertility and microbial parameters. The study concludes that integrated nitrogen management; particularly the application of vermicompost; combined with appropriate plant spacing; plays a crucial role in improving soil fertility status and enhancing soil microbial activity in Kalmegh cultivation; thereby contributing to sustainable soil health and long-term productivity.

Assessment of Pastoral Potential of Earial Pastures at the Centre for the Conservation, Multiplication and Dissemination of Endemic Ruminant Livestock in Madina Diassa, Rural Commune of Gouanan, District of Yanfolila, Mali

Boureima Kanambaye — 2026-04-11

Mali, a vast West African country characterized by predominantly arid and semi-arid conditions, relies heavily on agropastoral systems where livestock plays a crucial role in national livelihoods and the economy. However, increasing pressures from climate change, bushfires, and land-use conflicts are progressively reducing pasture productivity and threatening sustainable livestock management. This study was conducted at the Centre for the Conservation, Multiplication and Dissemination of Endemic Ruminant Livestock in Madina Diassa (Mali). Its objective was to characterize aerial pastures. The transect method was used to inventory woody flora and assess floristic composition, cover and pastoral value according to soil type. A total of 78 woody species belonging to 27 families were identified, 92.3% of which were forage species. Fabaceae and Combretaceae were the most represented families. Forage species were most abundant on ferruginous soils (56 species), followed by sandy loam soils (49) and gravelly soils (48). The flora is dominated by moderately palatable species (47%). Pastoral value remains low, with averages of 30.56% (clay-sandy soils), 26.60% (gravelly soils) and 26.39% (ferruginous soils). These results highlight the need to extend the study to the entire ranch for better management of plant resources.

Optimizing Upland Rice–soybean Intercropping for Enhanced Productivity, Resource Use Efficiency, and Farmer Income

Moses Godfrey Kaiira — 2026-04-11

MAK 4 soybean, a widely grown and early maturing variety, offers potential compatibility with upland rice due to its growth habit and soil fertility benefits. The study aims to assess the growth and yield performance of different upland rice varieties when intercropped with MAK 4 soybean. A field experiment was conducted during the first and second rainy seasons of 2024 and 2025 at the Buginyanya Zonal Agricultural Research and Development Institute, Ikulwe satellite station in Eastern Uganda. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications, consisting of eleven treatments combining five rice varieties (NERICA 1, NERICA 4, NERICA 10, NamChe 3, and NamChe 5) grown as sole crops and intercropped with soybean (MAK4), alongside a sole soybean control. Plant height and leaf length of intercropped rice were significantly (P≤0.05) greater than those of sole crops, except for NERICA 1 + soybeans. Plant height and leaf length of intercropped rice were significantly (P=0.05) greater than sole crops except for NERICA 1 + soybean. Rice leaf length increased notably in 2024 due to soybean introduction, except for NERICA 10. Intercropping did not affect MAK4 soybean height, pods per plant or grain yield significantly (P=0.05), over the two years, but reduced soybean pods by 0.08-30% while increasing rice height (0.004-12%) in 2024. Tiller and panicle numbers were unaffected in both years. The combined land equivalent ratio of rice + soybean was 1.75 & 1.68 for NamChe 3 and 1.87 & 1.75 for NamChe 5 + MAK 4 soybean, indicating high land use efficiency. High LEC and REY values occurred with Soybean + NamChe 3 and Soybean + NamChe 5, while low ATER values were observed for the same treatments. TRGYE scores were higher under intercropping than sole rice in both years, with the highest values in 2025. The competition ratio was significantly high (<0.001) under NERICA 1 + soybean (1.98 & 1.34) and low under NamChe 5 (0.83 & 0.85) and NamChe 3 (1.27 & 1.26). The study concludes that NamChe 3 + MAK 4 soybean and NamChe 5 + MAK 4 soybean are sustainable intercropping systems for maximizing land productivity and farmer income in upland systems.

Evaluation of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Genotypes for Growth and Yield Attributing Traits

Puli Vijaya Babu — 2026-04-13

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is an economically important vegetable crop, and improving its yield potential through the evaluation of diverse genotypes remains a key objective in breeding programmes. The identification of superior genotypes based on growth and yield attributes is essential for enhancing productivity under varying agro-climatic conditions. The study was conducted to evaluate the tomato genotypes for growth and yield attributing traits during summer 2024. The present investigation was conducted at PG Students Research Farm, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India. The experimental material consisted of twenty-four tomato genotypes and followed randomized block design with two replications. Growth and yield attributing parameters were recorded such as plant spread, stem girth, leaf area, days to first flowering, number of flowers per cluster, days to last fruit harvest, number of fruits per cluster and number of fruit clusters per plant. Among the genotypes, maximum leaf area was recorded in the genotype EC 620516 (113.18 cm²). Minimum days for first flowering were recorded in EC 620385 (25.50). Among the genotypes, maximum number of fruits per cluster were observed in EC 631373 (4.80). Maximum number of fruit clusters per plant were recorded in EC 620516 (8.60). The superior performed tomato genotypes for different growth and yield attributing traits can be used in further crop improvement programme.

Integrated Management of White Rust (Albugo candida) in Indian Mustard Using Biocontrol Agents under Field Conditions

Talapati Aruna Chenna Vydyanad — 2026-04-13

White rust of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.), caused by the obligate oomycete Albugo candida (Pers.) Kuntze, represents one of the most economically devastating biotic constraints to mustard cultivation across diverse agro-climatic regions of India. The disease is particularly severe during the Rabi (winter) cropping season, when cool temperatures and high relative humidity create ideal conditions for pathogen proliferation and disease development. The present field investigation was systematically conducted during the Rabi season of 2024-25 at the Agricultural Research Farm of Vikrant University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, with the twin objectives of evaluating the efficacy of selected biocontrol agents under field conditions and analyzing disease severity trends across major mustard-growing agro-climatic zones of India.

The experiment was designed following a randomized block design (RBD) with four replications and seven distinct treatment combinations comprising Trichoderma viride, Pseudomonas fluorescens, their synergistic combination, botanical resistance inducers (garlic extract and salicylic acid), a fungicide standard (Mancozeb 75% WP), and an untreated control. Critical parameters including disease incidence (%), percent disease index (PDI), and seed yield (kg ha⁻¹) were recorded at weekly intervals across the entire crop growth period from November 2024 to February 2025.

Experimental results demonstrated that the combined application of Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens was significantly superior among all biocontrol treatments, reducing disease incidence to 22.1% and PDI to 26.7%, representing a 52.9% disease reduction over the untreated control. This treatment also produced the highest seed yield among biocontrol options at 1580 kg ha⁻¹, reflecting a 54.9% yield advantage over the control (1020 kg ha⁻¹). The chemical fungicide Mancozeb 75% WP outperformed all other treatments with a PDI of 23.4% and maximum yield of 1650 kg ha⁻¹, serving as an effective benchmark. Regional analysis confirmed higher disease pressure in eastern and north-eastern India due to elevated humidity and temperature fluctuations. The study strongly advocates for the integration of biocontrol agents into sustainable, eco-friendly integrated disease management (IDM) programmes for mustard production systems in India.

Effect of Split Application of Nitrogen and Potassium on Growth and Yield of Irrigated Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Reena Hedau — 2026-04-14

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important cereal crops globally and serves as a staple food for a substantial proportion of the world’s population. The study aims to evaluate the effect of split application of nitrogen and potassium on the growth and yield attributes of irrigated wheat. The experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2024–25 at SAGE University, Bhopal following a Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of different levels and split applications of nitrogen and potassium, including 100% and 75% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF: 80:40:40 kg N:P₂O₅:K₂O ha⁻¹), applied at basal, crown root initiation (CRI), and boot leaf stages. The results revealed that split application of nitrogen and potassium significantly enhanced growth parameters such as plant height, dry matter production, leaf area index (LAI), and number of tillers per meter row length at different growth stages, except at 30 DAS. Among the treatments, application of 100% RDF with nitrogen and potassium in three equal splits (33:33:33%) at basal, CRI, and boot leaf stages recorded significantly higher plant height (97.6 cm at harvest), dry matter production (96.40 g m⁻¹ row length at 90 DAS), LAI (3.36 at 90 DAS), and number of tillers (224.00 m⁻¹ row length at 60 DAS), and was found to be at par with other split treatments under 100% RDF. Yield attributes showed variable responses to split nutrient application. Grain weight per spike was significantly increased, with the highest value (1.78 g) recorded under 100% RDF with three equal splits of nitrogen and potassium, which was at par with 25:25:50% split application. However, the number of grains per spike and test weight did not show significant differences, although higher values were observed under the same treatment. The study concludes that split application of nitrogen and potassium, particularly in three equal splits (33:33:33%) at basal, CRI, and boot leaf stages under 100% RDF, is an effective nutrient management practice for enhancing growth and improving yield attributes of irrigated wheat. This approach ensures better nutrient use efficiency and can be recommended for sustainable wheat production under irrigated conditions.

Survey on Cultivation Practices and Soil Fertilization Methods in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) Cropping Systems in Karakoro, Northern of Côte d’Ivoire

TRAORE Makissa — 2026-04-14

In Côte d’Ivoire, soil fertility is a major challenge for the sustainability of agricultural systems. The progressive degradation of arable land is exacerbated by the intensive use of chemical fertilizers, resulting in declining crop yields and increased environmental risks. This study, conducted in Karakoro (Northern of Côte d’Ivoire), aimed to contribute to the development of a soil fertility management strategy for sorghum-based systems by characterizing cropping practices and soil fertilization methods. Data were collected through individual surveys, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews. A total of 175 sorghum producers were surveyed regarding cultivated varieties, cropping techniques, constraints, and fertilization practices. The results revealed a strong predominance of red-grained sorghum (99.3%), mainly used for local beer production, household consumption, and marketing. The dominant cropping practices were animal-drawn ploughing and furrow sowing (98%). The main constraints identified included soil infertility (71.7%), climate variability, high input costs, and pest pressure. Fertilization practices relied primarily on mineral fertilizers (NPK and urea), applied in microdoses, while compost use was entirely absent across the study area. However, farmers expressed increasing interest in compost derived from plant residues due to its local availability. These findings highlight the need for simple and context-adapted solutions. The integration of organic fertilizers with agroecological practices could enhance soil restoration and improve the sustainability and resilience of sorghum-based cropping systems in northern Côte d’Ivoire.

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Plantlets Survival and Growth under Semi-autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH): Insights from Novel Varieties in Togo

Gmakouba Tighankoumi — 2026-04-15

Aims: Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), widely cultivated in Africa and ranked as the fourth most produced crop globally, remains constrained by the lack of healthy planting material and its high susceptibility to viral diseases. In a context where access to quality cassava seed remains a major challenge for farmers, the Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponic (SAH) system emerges as an innovative solution to ensure the availability of healthy and vigorous planting material in Togo. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of plantlets from newly introduced International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) varieties obtained through SAH in laboratory conditions, in order to assess their adaptability.

Study Design: The experiment was carried out using a Completely Randomized Design with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the tissue culture laboratory of the Togolese Agricultural Research Institute (ITRA) over a four-week period, from August to September 2025.

Methodology: Two industrial-use varieties (Dixon and Farmer’s Pride), developed by IITA, and one local variety (Gbazékouté) were evaluated under SAH conditions. The parameters measured included contamination rate, establishment rate, collar diameter, plantlet height, leaf number per plantlet, and root number per plantlet. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey’s HSD test for mean separation.

Results: The results revealed significant differences among varieties for leaf number (p < 0.001), plantlet height (p < 0.001), root number (p < 0.05), and collar diameter (p < 0.05). Farmer’s Pride exhibited superior vigour, with more leaves (5.73 ± 0.3), greater height (1.96 ± 0.3), and a better developed root system (7.33 ± 0.3). Gbazékouté showed a larger collar diameter (2.17 ± 0.3), indicating robustness, whereas Dixon (1.89 ± 0.3) was less performant. Farmer’s Pride is the variety best adapted to SAH conditions.

Conclusion: Semi-Autotrophic Hydroponics (SAH) proved effective in supporting cassava plantlets survival and growth, with notable varietal differences observed. These findings highlight the potential of SAH as a reliable propagation system for both improved and local cassava varieties in Togo, offering valuable insights for scaling up cassava production and strengthening food security initiatives.

Effect of Groundnut Shell Amendment and Tillage Implements on Soil Properties, Growth and Yield of Rainfed Sorghum

Ayman Hassan Suliman — 2026-04-16

In most rainfed areas, crop productivity is strongly affected by lack of soil fertility and unreliable rainfall. Therefore, enhancing soil organic carbon as well as selecting the right tillage methods that improves soil condition is highly needed. A field experiment was conducted at the training and research farm in the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria, to investigate the effect of groundnut shells as soil amendment using different tillage implements on growth and yield of rain-fed sorghum. The treatments consisted of three groundnut shell rates (0 t/ha, 5 t/ha and 10 t/ha) and three types of tillage implements viz. cultivator, rotavator and offset disc harrow. The results showed the application of groundnut shells significantly decreased the values of soil bulk density and increased soil water storage compared to non-application (0 t/ha). Water holding capacity and soil water storage were significantly affected by different tillage implements. Both cultivator and the offset disc harrow had higher values of water holding capacity and soil water storage in comparison with the rotavator. However, the effect of different groundnut shell rates and tillage implements on soil organic carbon was not significant. Moreover, the application of groundnut shell compared to non-application had a positive influence on sorghum plant height, stem girth, leaf area index and days to 50% heading; as well as it is increased both sorghum grain and stover yield by 20.9% and 17.3%, respectively, at 10 t/ha rate and by 13.5% and 10.9%, respectively, at the rate of 5 t/ha. On the other hand, the tillage implements did not show a significant effect on the sorghum growth and yield attributes except on 1000 seed weight, where it was higher under rotavator followed by cultivator.

Effect of Humic Acid on Yield, Soil Nutrient Availibilty and Chemical Status after Harvest of Wheat

H. V. Amipara — 2026-04-17

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a major staple crop, but its productivity and soil sustainability are increasingly challenged by the excessive and imbalanced use of chemical fertilizers. Integrated Nutrient Management, including the use of humic acid, offers a promising approach to improve soil health, nutrient availability, and crop productivity under intensive cultivation systems. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2023–24 and 2024–25 at the Pulse Research Station, Anand Agricultural University, Vadodara, Gujarat, to assess the effect of humic acid on soil chemical properties and nutrient dynamics under wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivation. The study was laid out in a randomized block design comprising ten treatments with varying levels of recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) in combination with soil and foliar application of humic acid. The results indicated that post-harvest soil pH and electrical conductivity were not significantly affected by different treatments. Application of 100% RDF + humic acid @ 10 kg ha^-1 (T₄) recording the significantly highest values of grain yield (5242 kg ha^-1), straw yield (6137 kg ha^-1), available nitrogen (308 kg ha^-1) and phosphorus (61.95 kg ha^-1) during 2023–24, 2024–25 and pooled analysis, respectively, remaining statistically comparable with T₃. In contrast, available potassium did not show significant variation across treatments. Application of humic acid significantly increased soil organic carbon content and DTPA-extractable micronutrients (Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu), with the highest concentrations observed under T₁₀ (75% RDF + soil application of humic acid @ 15 kg ha^-1 + foliar spray @ 0.2% humic acid), followed by T₇, may be attributed to the foliar application of humic acid, which enhances direct nutrient absorption and utilization by plants, thereby minimizing nutrient fixation and residual buildup in the soil. Overall, the results demonstrate that the combined application of humic acid and inorganic fertilizers significantly enhances wheat productivity, enriches soil organic carbon and improves nutrient availability, thereby promoting sustainable soil fertility management.

Diversification of Rice-based Cropping System under Aerobic Rice Cultivation in South Gujarat, India

Darpana Patel — 2026-04-20

Crop diversification has been recognised as an effective management system which can enhance the productivity, judicious uses of resources and sustainable agriculture. There is need to diversify rice-based cropping system to enhance the productivity, resilience and soil health. This system involves incorporating vegetables, pulses oilseeds and other cereals either during fallow periods or in place of rice. A field experiment was carried out at the Main Rice Research Centre, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat during 2021-22 to 2023-24 in kharif and rabi seasons to study the diversification of rice-based cropping system under aerobic rice cultivation in South Gujarat region. Eight different rice-based cropping systems viz., T₁: Rice-Sweetcorn, T₂: Rice-Cabbage, T₃: Rice-Indian bean (vegetable purpose), T₄: Rice - Indian bean (seed purpose), T₅: Rice - Green gram, T₆: Rice-Chickpea T₇: Rice-Sorghum and T₈: Rice-Mustard were evaluated in randomized block design with four replications. The results showed that different rice-based cropping system did not significantly affect rice yield in kharif seasons. However, it gave higher yield in pulses crop as compared to other crop system. Rabi crops significantly differed among them with producing expected yield during experimental period. The significantly higher rice equivalent yield (20.45 t/ha) was obtained with rice-indian bean (vegetable purpose) cropping system as compared to rest of the systems. Among all the cropping systems, rice-indian bean (vegetable purpose) maintain soil chemical properties as compared to other systems. Thus, under aerobic rice cultivation method among different cropping system, rice-indian bean (vegetable purpose) system was found as the efficient, most productive and improved soil chemical properties in South Gujarat.

Effect of Amendments on Soil and Growth Characteristics of Rice (Oryga sativa) in Lateritic and Coastal Wetland Soils

A. Shahanas — 2026-04-21

Wetland ecosystems of Kerala play a crucial role in sustaining rice production, yet their productivity is increasingly constrained by poor soil fertility and adverse physicochemical properties. Understanding nutrient dynamics and the impact of soil amendments in distinct agroecological units is essential for developing effective management strategies to enhance soil fertility and rice yield. A pot culture experiment was conducted to study the effect of amendments on the soil nutrient dynamics of both lateritic and coastal wetland soils at College of Agriculture, Padannakkad, Kasaragod from October 2023 to January 2024. Experiment was conducted with 2 types of soils (coastal sandy and lateritic alluvial wetland) under 5 levels of treatments using completely randomized design (CRD) using paddy as the test crop. From the experiment, yield limiting factors were found to be available Mg and B status in both the soil types. The results of the experiment revealed that application of Soil Test Based Fertilizers (STBF) and STBF combined with lime / dolomite significantly improved growth parameters such as productive tillers, grains per panicle, and test weight and ultimately leading to higher yield potential. The incorporation of liming materials not only ameliorated soil acidity but also enhanced the availability of essential nutrients. Thereby Soil Test Based Fertilizers (STBF) combined with lime / dolomite by significantly improving soil nutrient availability, plant nutrient uptake, and yield attributes in both soil types and proved to be the best management practice in both the soil types.

Impact of Nutrient Management Practices on Growth Parameters, Yield Attributes and Yield of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Akriti Tiwari — 2026-04-22

With increasing global concerns about environmental sustainability, nutrient management for tomato production must balance productivity with ecological integrity. Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) approaches help to reduce dependency on synthetic fertilizers, limit nutrient leaching into groundwater, and build soil organic carbon, thereby promoting long-term soil fertility and environmental health. The present study explores the Impact of nutrient management under natural farming on growth, yield and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Madhya Pradesh, India. The investigation was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2023–24 and 2024–25 at the research farm of the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Rabindranath Tagore University, Raisen (M.P.), India. The experiment comprised twelve treatments T₁ - Control, T₂ -100% nutrition by RDF, T₃ -50% nutrition by recommended dose of FYM+50% nutrition by fertilizer, T₄ -50% nutrition by recommended dose of VC+50%nutrition by fertilizer, T₅ -50% nutrition by recommended dose of poultry manure+50%nutrition by fertilizer, T₆ -75% nutrition by recommended dose of FYM+25% nutrition by fertilizer, T₇ -75% nutrition by recommended dose of VC+25% nutrition by fertilizer, T₈ -75% nutrition by recommended dose of poultry manure+25% nutrition by fertilizer, T₉ -25% nutrition by recommended dose of FYM+75% nutrition by fertilizer, T₁₀ -25% nutrition by recommended dose of VC+75% nutrition by fertilizer, T₁₁ -25% nutrition by recommended dose of poultry manure+75% nutrition by fertilizer, T₁₂ -Jeevamrit involving various combinations of vermicompost, farmyard manure (FYM), vermiwash, panchgavya, and jeevamrit, arranged in a Randomized Block Design with three replications. Plant protection measures were adopted as per standard recommendations to manage pests and diseases. Five plants were selected randomly from each plot and tagged to record the observations. The growth parameters recorded were plant height (cm) at 30, 60, and 90 DAT, number of branches per plant, days to first flowering, number of flowers per cluster, and number of flower clusters per plant. Among all treatments, T₁₂ (vermicompost + vermiwash + panchgavya + jeevamrit) emerged as the most effective in enhancing growth attributes and yield of tomato. This treatment recorded the maximum plant height (97.13 cm) and number of branches per plant (15.48) at 90 days after transplanting. It also yielded the highest number of fruits per plant (41.65) and fruit diameter (5.93 cm), resulting in a fruit yield of 427.32 q/ha. The results suggest that the integrated use of vermicompost, vermiwash, panchgavya, and jeevamrit under natural farming significantly enhances tomato productivity and profitability, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional practices.

Characterization of Plant Growth-Promoting Potential of Root Nodule Endophytes from Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth

Aanchal Mishra — 2026-04-22

Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. is a leguminous tree with significant potential in agroforestry. Root nodules are known to harbour rhizobia as well as non‑rhizobial endophytes with plant growth‑promoting (PGP) traits. The present study was undertaken to isolate and characterize endophytic bacteria from root nodules of A. lebbeck. A total 48 bacterial isolates were isolated and purified from root nodules of A. lebbeck and were screened qualitatively for four PGP traits; IAA production, ammonia production, phosphate solubilization and chitinase activity. Identification of the effective PGP bacterial strains were done by sequencing of 16S rRNA gene. Results revealed that 52.08% of bacterial isolates exhibited IAA production, 50% of bacterial isolates exhibited ammonia production, while 31.25% isolates showed phosphate solubilization. Chitinase activity was present in only one bacterial isolate (Al-DOB7). Pseudomonas sp. Al-DOB7 were identified as multifunctional PGP bacteria and showed all four PGP activity screened. Three bacterial isolates; Rhizobium sp. Al-Am1, Rhizobium sp Al-Kh2 and Ensifer sp. Al-Rs5 exhibited IAA production, ammonia production and phosphate solubilization. Further quantitative screening and greenhouse validation of these nodule-associated bacteria are essential for their sustainable application in agricultural and agroforestry systems.

A Review of Modern Soil pH Monitoring Techniques and Their Effects on Crop Yield

Battala Sheshagiri — 2026-04-03

Soil pH is a fundamental determinant of soil fertility, nutrient availability, and crop productivity. It influences chemical equilibria, microbial processes, and plant nutrient uptake, making it a key factor in sustainable agricultural management. Conventional soil pH measurement techniques, such as laboratory-based glass electrode methods, although accurate, are often labor-intensive, time-consuming, and inadequate for capturing spatial variability within fields. With the advancement of precision agriculture, modern soil pH monitoring technologies have emerged, offering real-time, high-resolution, and site-specific data.

This review comprehensively examines recent developments in soil pH monitoring techniques, including electrochemical sensors, optical and spectroscopic approaches, proximal and remote sensing, and IoT-based systems integrated with machine learning algorithms. These technologies have significantly improved the efficiency of soil monitoring, enabling farmers to optimize nutrient management and enhance crop yield. The integration of artificial intelligence and wireless sensor networks has further facilitated predictive modeling and automated decision-making.

The relationship between soil pH and crop yield is critically analyzed through multiple case studies, demonstrating how precise pH management can enhance nutrient use efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, and increase productivity. Despite these advancements, challenges such as sensor calibration, cost constraints, and environmental variability persist. Future prospects include the development of low-cost sensors, AI-driven decision support systems, and fully automated smart farming solutions. This review highlights the transformative role of modern soil pH monitoring in achieving sustainable agriculture and global food security.

Natural Farming: A Sustainable Approach for Enhancing Soil Health and Productivity in Mulberry Based Sericulture

V. Shravanilakshmi — 2026-04-07

Natural farming has emerged as a sustainable agricultural approach that focuses on reducing dependence on synthetic inputs while improving soil health and long-term productivity. This review paper highlights the importance of natural farming as an eco-friendly strategy for enhancing soil fertility and sustainability in mulberry-based sericulture systems. It discusses the fundamental concept, aims, principles and scope of natural farming along with its key pillars that promote soil biological activity, nutrient recycling and ecological balance. The role of natural farming practices in improving soil health indicators such as organic matter content, microbial population and nutrient availability is emphasized. Special attention is given to the application of natural farming in mulberry cultivation where improved soil quality can lead to better leaf yield and quality, ultimately benefiting silkworm growth and cocoon production. The review also addresses the potential economic benefits through reduced input costs, along with government initiatives supporting natural farming adoption. In addition, existing risks, challenges and constraints in implementation are discussed and future prospects are outlined to encourage wider adoption of natural farming for sustainable mulberry cultivation and resilient sericulture production systems.

Integrated Remote Sensing and GIS for Decision-oriented Climate-resilient Management of Groundwater-irrigated Cropping Systems: A Review

Karmnath Kumar — 2026-04-08

Groundwater irrigation remains a critical component of agricultural production, particularly in regions experiencing climatic variability. However, increasing pressures from temperature extremes, erratic precipitation, and unsustainable extraction threaten aquifer sustainability and long-term food security. This review synthesizes recent advances in the integration of Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for climate-resilient groundwater management in irrigated cropping systems. It examines how satellite-derived indicators, including evapotranspiration, vegetation indices, soil moisture, and groundwater storage anomalies, enable improved spatial and temporal assessment of water resources. The review further evaluates GIS-based frameworks for integrating multi-source datasets to support groundwater potential mapping, irrigation planning, and adaptive decision-making. Emerging approaches such as machine learning, hydrological modeling, and multi-criteria decision analysis are also discussed for their role in predictive irrigation management and recharge zone identification. The synthesis highlights a shift from conventional monitoring toward integrated, decision-oriented systems that enhance water-use efficiency and resilience under climate uncertainty. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including data limitations, model uncertainty, and institutional constraints. This review adopts a structured literature synthesis approach to identify key advancements, categorize applications, and highlight research gaps. Overall, integrating RS–GIS technologies into decision-support frameworks is essential for sustainable groundwater governance and resilient agricultural systems.

Paddy Germplasm Conservation: Strategies, Molecular Tools and Future Perspectives for Global Food Security

Yashwanth Ranganatha — 2026-04-14

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the dietary staple of over 3.5 billion people and supplies approximately 20% of global caloric intake. The genetic diversity embedded within paddy germplasm constitutes an irreplaceable reservoir for crop improvement, resilience breeding and the development of climate-adaptive varieties. This review consolidates current knowledge on paddy germplasm conservation, encompassing ex situ, in situ and cryogenic strategies; the molecular characterization of diversity; and the application of genomic technologies for collection management. The International Rice Germplasm Collection (IRGC) maintained at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines, holds over 127,000 accessions representing 24 Oryza species, making it the world's largest rice gene bank. Complementary national collections - notably those of India (>79,000), China (>70,000), Japan (>16,000) and the United States (>19,000) - collectively safeguard over 500,000 distinct accessions globally. Molecular marker technologies, from simple sequence repeats (SSRs) to genome-wide SNP arrays used in the 3,000 Rice Genomes (3K RG) project, have revolutionized diversity assessment and core collection development. Emerging challenges include genetic erosion driven by the replacement of traditional varieties with high-yielding cultivars, climate change impacts on wild Oryza habitats and declining regeneration resources. Future priorities encompass pangenome development, integrated genomic databases, community seed banks and policy-aligned conservation frameworks under the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA). This review synthesizes data from over 150 peer-reviewed publications to provide a comprehensive reference for researchers, plant breeders and policymakers. The review highlights the practical implications of germplasm conservation for sustainable crop improvement and climate resilience. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, plant breeders and policymakers engaged in ensuring long-term food and nutritional security.

Nutrient Balance Sheet Approach for Sustainable Soil Fertility Management in the Bundelkhand Region: A Narrative Review

Saniya Syed — 2026-04-17

The nutrient balance sheet approach provides precisely this kind of systematic accounting. By quantifying all significant pathways of nutrient addition and removal within a defined agricultural system—whether a farm, watershed, or district—the approach generates a net nutrient balance that indicates whether soil fertility reserves are being replenished, maintained, or depleted over time. The Bundelkhand region of north-central India, encompassing parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, is characterised by a semi-arid climate, drought-prone conditions, and widespread soil degradation that severely constrains agricultural productivity. Persistent nutrient mining, imbalanced fertiliser application, and the erosion of fragile soils have progressively depleted the fertility capital of this ecologically sensitive landscape. The nutrient balance sheet approach—a systematic accounting of nutrient inputs and outputs within an agricultural system—offers a rigorous and spatially relevant framework for diagnosing soil fertility decline, guiding fertiliser recommendations, and informing sustainable land management policies. This narrative review synthesises existing knowledge on the agro-ecological context of Bundelkhand, the theoretical underpinnings of the nutrient balance sheet methodology, and its practical implications for improving soil fertility management in the region. The review identifies that Bundelkhand soils are predominantly deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, zinc, and boron, whilst potassium status varies considerably across soil types. Negative nutrient balances for most major nutrients reflect chronic over-extraction and under-replenishment of soil fertility reserves. Integrated nutrient management strategies combining mineral fertilisers, organic amendments, biofertilisers, and green manures are discussed in the context of restoring nutrient equilibrium. The review further addresses the roles of climate variability, water erosion, and policy frameworks in shaping nutrient dynamics. It is concluded that the institutionalisation of periodic nutrient balance assessments, calibrated to the specific soil–crop systems of Bundelkhand, is essential for achieving long-term agricultural sustainability, food security, and environmental resilience in the region.