International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Elucidating the Role of Micronutrient Seed Treatment in the Physiological Performance of Wheat Seed

Alpana Kumari — 2024-08-23

Seed treatment is one of the key techniques for improvement in physiological performance of seed lot in different crop plants. In the present study, the aim was to explore the technique in wheat, seed lot was treated with the different concentration of iron and zinc sulphate solution. Other method of micronutrient application was also adopted i.e., soil application and foliar spray at recommended dose. The micronutrient treatment with ZnSO₄ (0.5, 2.0%) exhibit highest improvement in physiological parameters like root length, shoot length, seedling dry weight, standard germination, germination energy, germination rate, seed vigour index-I & II, dehydrogenase enzyme activity, membrane permeability i.e., EC and zinc & iron content in seed and plant in treated seed and harvested seed lot, respectively. Commonly seed treatment with ZnSO₄ (0.5%) results in improvement of all the physiological parameters of treated seed as well as harvested seed.

Effect of Chemical, Organic and Biofertilizer on Growth and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Priyanka Yengkokpam — 2024-08-23

A field experiment was conducted at the Agriculture Research Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, RIMT University, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab during rabi season 2023-24. The experimental field was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with 8 treatments and replicated thrice. The treatment combinations are T₁- control, T₂- 100% Recommended Dose Nitrogen (RDN) and T₃- 75% RDN + 5t Farm Yard Manure (FYM) ha^-1, T₄- 75% RDN + 5t FYM ha^-1 + Azotobacter 20 ml ha^-1, T₅- 75% RDN+ Azotobacter 20 ml ha^-1, T₆- 50% RDN + 10t FYM ha^-1, T₇- 50% RDN + 10t FYM ha^-1 + Azotobacter 20 ml ha^-1, T₈- 50% RDN + Azotobacter 20 ml ha^-1. The result of present study revealed that the treatment T₄ (75% RDN + 5t FYM ha^-1+ Azotobacter 20 ml ha^-1) has shown significant result on plant population m^-2(at harvest) (14.5), plant height (153.2cm), number of branches plant^-1 (20.5), chlorophyll content (µmol m^-2) (SPAD) (45.10), no. of siliqua plant^-1(300.10), no. of seeds siliqua^-1(18.0), siliqua length (cm) (5.90cm), test weight (g) (3.36g), seed yield q ha^-1 (22.98 q ha^-1), straw yield q ha^-1 (56.07 q ha^-1), biological yield q ha^-1 (79.06 q ha^-1) and harvest index (%) (28.80%) were observed.

Impact of Foliar Application of Nano Urea on Yield, Nutrient Uptake and Fruit Quality of Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) in the Western Undulating Zone of Odisha, India

Sai Ashish Panda — 2024-08-23

This study investigated the impact of using nano urea along with conventional urea on brinjal farming in the Western Undulating Agro-climatic Zone of Odisha. The research was conducted at the Regional Research and Technology Transfer Station (OUAT) in Bhawanipatna, Kalahandi, Odisha, India during October, 2022-23 (rabi season). Results showed that application of 50% STD of nitrogen + nano-urea spray at 3-4 weeks after transplanting at the rate of 8 ml L^-1 of water recorded highest leaf area index, SPAD, nutrient uptake and yield of brinjal followed by 75% STD of nitrogen + nano-urea spray at 3-4 weeks after transplanting at the rate of 6 ml L^-1. Result clearly showed that in T₉ where foliar application of nano urea with the reduced supplementation of inorganic nitrogen fertilizer @ 50% has been applied increased the fruit yield of brinjal to the tune of 27% over the soil test dose of NPK (STD) and achieved maximum B:C ratio of 1.55. Results also showed that there is no significant impact was observed in fruit quality parameters of brinjal and post-harvest soil properties due to nano urea application.

Field Efficacy of Biocapsules of Entomopathogenic Fungi for the Management of Aphis craccivora Koch (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Parvathi M — 2024-08-23

Many agro-ecosystems have been seriously undermined using synthetic pesticides, and are losing incentive in terms of productivity, with substantial loss of biodiversity. To reclaim ecosystem health and protect global health, there is an important need to put the ecology standards back at the core of crop protection. Biological control methods are favourable alternative methods to the chemical method. In the evaluation of the efficacy of biocapsules of Lecanicillium lecanii (Zimmermann) Zare and Gams and L. saksenae (Kushwaha) Kurihara and Sukarno for the management of cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora Koch (Homoptera: Aphididae), it was revealed that foliar application of L. saksenae and L. lecanii three capsules L^-1 sprayed twice (at weekly intervals) were similarly effective in causing 94.38 and 92.28 per cent reduction in the population of A. craccivora and with lower dose at two and one capsules L^-1 population noted was 37.51 to 63.96 per cent. The spore suspensions of both fungi were more effective than the lower doses (78.73 - 83.53 per cent reduction) in cowpeas. While Thiamethoxam 25 WG, was 95.79 per cent. Biocapsule treatment did not affect the natural enemy populations significantly. The yield recorded in the plots with L. saksenae capsules at two and three L^-1was higher than other treated and untreated plots. Therefore, the need-based creation of biocontrol formulations in capsules, tablets, powder, etc. should be popularized.

Assessment of G × E Interactions and Stability Parameters for Quality Traits, Grain Yield and Its Components in Finger Millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]

V. L. Ladumor — 2024-08-23

The present study was conducted on G × E interactions and stability analysis in thirty-five finger millet genotypes under three environments i.e. Waghai, Vanarasi and Navsari locations in year kharif-2020-21. Observation were recorded for days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height (cm), productive tillers per plant, fingers per ear, finger width (cm), main ear head length (cm), finger length (cm), 1000 seed weight (g), grain yield per plant (g), fodder yield per plant (g), harvest index (%), leaf area (cm²), chlorophyll content (SPAD value), fiber content (%), calcium content (mg/100g), iron content (mg/100g) and zinc content (mg/100g). The genotypes and environmental analysis of variance for stability revealed that, the differences among them were significant for all the characters when tested against pooled deviation and pooled error. The G x E interaction was significant for all the characters except fingers per ear and iron content. Mean squares due to environment (linear) were high and significant for all the characters except fiber content and iron content when tested against pooled deviation and/or pooled error. The stability parameters revealed that, the genotypes Dapoli-1, Dapoli-2, KOPN-235, VR-708, VR-847, GPU-67, KMR-340, KMR-204, KMR630, GN-5, GNN-6, GNN-7 and GN-8 were found to be average stable over environments for grain yield per plant with one or more yield contributing characters and quality parameters. So, these genotypes were used in future hybridization programme in finger millet.

Effect of Different Potting Media on Seeds Germination & Growth of Dahiman (Cordia macleodii Hook.) in Nursery

Neha Minj — 2024-08-24

The study was conducted at the Herbal Garden, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.) from July to January during the 2023-24 session. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of various potting mixtures on the growth of Dahiman (Cordia macleodii) in a nursery setting. The experiment used a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications and nine different treatments. The treatments involved different combinations of potting mixtures: T₁ (sand + soil + FYM, 1:1:1), T₂ (soil + sand + vermicompost, 1:1:1), T₃ (soil + vermicompost + FYM, 1:1:1), T₄ (sand + soil + lemongrass compost, 1:1:1), T₅ (sand + soil + FYM, 2:1:1), T₆ (sand + soil + vermicompost, 1:1:1), T₇ (sand + soil + vermicompost, 1:1:2), T₈ (sand + soil + FYM, 1:1:2), and T₉ (control). The T₇ treatment (sand + soil + vermicompost, 1:1:2) stood out as the most effective, significantly improving all growth parameters for both Dahiman. These findings indicate that the T₇ treatment (sand + soil + vermicompost, 1:1:2) is the best choice for promoting healthy growth in Dahiman seedlings.

Correlation and Path Analysis of Yield and Seedling Vigour Related Traits in Wild Introgression Lines

Sai Prasanna D — 2024-08-24

Early establishment of crop plants are highly influenced by resource availability in its environment. Seedling early vigour refers to the ability of seeds to germinate quickly and uniformly, resulting in the robust crop establishment especially under stress environments. Modern cultivars which are bred for transplanting under irrigated conditions with semi-dwarf architecture lacks early seedling vigour, required under stress situations. Vigorous seedlings have additional advantage of better nutrient uptake by smothering weed plants and inhibit their growth. Improving rice plant architecture with high seedling vigour is a major breeding objective in the context of climate change effect. Backcross Introgression Lines derived from interspecific crosses were screened for seedling vigour traits and yield related traits and correlation analysis was employed to assess the trait association. Among all the 31 traits studied for correlation concluded that positively significant correlation was observed for panicle length, panicle weight, filled grains, total number of grains. Genotypic and phenotypic correlation revealed that the traits panicle length, panicle weight, filled grains, total number of grains, days to 50% flowering have shown significant correlation with single plant yield. Path analysis concluded that days to 50% flowering, number of tillers, fresh weight, dry weight, germination percentage and total number of grains had shown a positive direct effect with single plant yield. Days to 50% flowering, panicle weight, total numbers of grains had a positive significant and direct contribution towards yield improvement. Therefore, these traits are given more weightage while selecting the genotypes, for further utilization in crop improvement programmes.

Investigating the Impacts of Microplastics on the Plants Growth in Agriculture Soil

Varsha. K — 2024-08-26

MP in the environment thrive for a long time and enter the ecosystem in vast amounts every day, microplastics pose a serious threat to the entire planet at the moment. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether MP contamination affects plant development, the physical and chemical qualities of the soil, and soil metabolism. Several research databases about the identification and consequences of MP pollution of soil are available to evaluate its sources, impacts, mitigation, and global perspective. The effects of artificially spiked Poly Vinyl Acetate (PVA) micro plastics soil at different concentrations (0%, 0.5%, 1 %, 1.5%, 2%) on the growth parameters and nutrient contents of horse gram, green gram and chili grown soil. The germination percentage, seedlings length and vigor index was also reduced due to the presence of PVA particles which may be suspected to hinder the growth of the seeds, also the Boron and the Sulphur concentrations showed drastic reduction at higher concentrations of PVA micro plastics in green gram, horse gram and chili grown soil. Along with he reduced pH and Chlorophyll a due to the presence of PVA particles. Hence this study can help to focus on future need of remediation of micro plastics contaminated soil.

Influence of Priming on Seed Quality and Seed Health in Sorghum

Poornima Koradhanyamath — 2024-08-28

Aims: To achieve sustainable agriculture, it is essential to conduct ongoing research aimed at reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers. This study investigates the effectiveness of seed priming, either alone or in combination with low doses of fungicides and/or biocontrol agents, to enhance seed quality and to reduce seed infection by improving the rate and uniformity of seed emergence and overcoming diseases.

Study Design: Completely randomized design.

Place and Duration of Study: Seed Unit, UAS, Raichur, from March 2022 to September 2022.

Methodology: Sorghum seeds were surface sterilized with sodium hypochlorite (1 %) for five minutes and then washed thrice with sterile water. Later the seeds were primed with Trichoderma hamatum, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Carboxin 37.5 % + thiram 37.5 % (vitavax power), Trichoderma harzianum, Azospirillium and control with the seed to solution ratio of 1:5 for eight hours and then the primed seeds were dried back to original moisture content (24 hrs.) and then used to assess the seed quality parameters.

Results: Seed priming with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens resulted in statistically significant improvements in seed germination (95.0%), shoot length (16.9 cm), root length (16.6 cm), seedling length (33.5 cm), speed of germination (20.1), seedling dry weight (339.3 mg), seedling vigour index-I (3183), seedling vigour index-II (32234), lower electrical conductivity (0.35 dS/m) and reduced seed infection (0.6%). In contrast, the control group exhibited significantly lower seed germination (83.0%), shoot length (12.6 cm), root length (11.1 cm), seedling length (23.7 cm), speed of germination (15.2), seedling dry weight (333.2 mg), seedling vigour index-I (1967), seedling vigour index-II (27656), higher electrical conductivity (0.65 dS/m) and increased seed infection (6.8%).

Conclusion: Sorghum seeds primed with Bacillus amyloliquefaciens increases the seed quality parameters and reduces seed infection, supporting its use as an effective strategy for enhancing seed performance and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Influence of Different Levels of Hydrogel on Root Nodulation in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Shalini Singh — 2024-08-28

This study investigated the impact of varying levels of hydrogel on the root nodules of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) during Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2021-22 at the Department of Biological Sciences, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, (U.P). The experimental design was a randomized block design with four levels of hydrogel (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) and two levels of irrigation (one irrigation and two irrigation) and all treatments replicated thrice. Observations on the number of nodules per plant, active nodules, and inactive nodules were recorded at 30, 60, and 90 days after sowing (DAS) and at maturity and analysed using Fisher's ANOVA. The results indicated that hydrogel application significantly affected nodule formation at all growth stages across both years. The highest number of nodules, active nodules, and inactive nodules were recorded in treatment T₁₀ (2 irrigations + 100% hydrogel), followed by T₉ (2 irrigations + 75% hydrogel), in both years. The enhanced nodule formation with hydrogel application was attributed to improved water availability to the roots during periods of water scarcity, highlighting hydrogel's role in optimizing nitrogen availability and promoting chickpea growth, which is crucial for enhancing soil fertility.

Influence of Varying Levels of Organic Manure, Phosphorus and Bio- inoculants on Biological Properties of Soil under Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]

Prahlad Ram Raiger — 2024-08-28

A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years (during Kharif 2019 and 2020) at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Jodhpur (Rajasthan) to assess the impact of varying levels of FYM, phosphorus and bio-inoculants on biological properties of soil under Mungbean. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The experiment comprised of two levels of FYM (0 and 5 t/ha), four levels of phosphorus (0, 50, 75 and 100% P₂O₅ /ha) and three levels of bio-inoculations (No inoculation, Enterobacter cloacae and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens). Mungbean variety GM-4 was used for exprimentation. The results revealed that addition of FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 recorded significantly higher soil microbial biomass carbon (217.92 mg /kg), soil microbial biomass phosphorus (15.47 mg/kg), acid phosphatase (1.019 \(\mu\)g PNP/g soil/h), alkaline phosphatase (7.13\(\mu\)g PNP/g soil/h) and dehydrogenase activity (6.10 \(\mu\)g TPF/g soil/ h) of soil at 40 DAS as compared to without FYM application. Among the phosphorus levels, application of 100% P₂O₅/ha gave significantly highest soil microbial biomass carbon (219.13mg/kg), soil microbial biomass phosphorus (15.71 mg/kg), acid phosphatase (1.010 µg PNP/g soil/h), alkaline phosphatase (7.21\(\mu\)g PNP/g soil/h) and dehydrogenase activity (5.91\(\mu\)g TPF/g soil/h) over rest of P levels, however, it was found at par with 75 % P₂O₅/ha. Similarly, the seed inoculation with B. amyloliquefaciens recorded significantly higher values of all above biological properties as compared to un-inoculated control but it was found at par with seed inoculation with E. cloacae. Thus, the results reaveal the positive effect of the application of FYM, Phosphorus and seed inoculation with biofertilizers (E. cloacae or B. amyloliquefaciens) on the biological properties of soil (soil microbial biomass carbon, soil microbial biomass phosphorus, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase and dehydrogenase activity) for management of sustainable environment.

Influence of Climatic Factors on Sorghum Rust Severity in Dharwad, Karnataka, India

Pavithra V — 2024-08-28

Sorghum rust, caused by Puccinia purpurea, significantly reduces crop yield, affecting plant growth and grain quality. Understanding the impact of weather parameters on disease incidence is crucial for timely disease management, to enhance crop resilience and yield stability. This study aims to identify and quantify the relationship between weather parameters and the incidence of sorghum rust, to inform decision-making on disease management strategies. A comprehensive analysis was conducted utilizing 17 years of secondary data (2006-2022) sourced from the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Sorghum and the Department of Agrometeorology at the Climate Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP), University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Dharwad. The study employed statistical methods, including Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Step-wise Regression, to model the dependence of rust disease incidence on independent variables such as precipitation, temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, radiation, and heat flux. The results revealed the MLR model explains 65.45% of the variation and the Step-wise Regression model identifies four critical parameters- relative humidity, heat flux, wind speed, and radiation that together accounted for 65.09% of the variation without exhibiting multicollinearity (Variance Inflation Factor values below 10). These findings enhance the understanding of environmental impacts on sorghum rust and can inform future agricultural management strategies for disease prediction and control.

Influence of Soil Application through Integrated Nutrient Management on Soil Characteristics of Sweet Orange Orchard in Gird Region of Madhya Pradesh, India

Intjar Singh Dawar — 2024-08-29

The experiment was carried out from November 2020 to March 2022 at the RVSKVV College of Agriculture's Research Farm, located in Gwalior (M.P.), in the Department of Horticulture. Three replications and a Randomized Block Design were used to set up the experiment. The all soil characteristics analysis both initial and final level after experiment respectively minimum soil pH (7.05, 7.49), EC dsm^-1 (0.225, 0.220) and maximum Organic carbon % (2.117, 3.263), Nitrogen Kg ha^-1 (177.14,187.29), Phosphorus Kg ha^-1 (13.38, 13.58) and Potassium Kg ha^-1 (207.88, 229.45) quality parameters were most effectively achieved with treatment T₅ RDF 90 % + Vermicompost + (Azotobacter + PSB + KMB) + (Zn + Cu + Fe + Boron). Because sweet orange orchards are located in the Gird Region of Madhya Pradesh, this particular treatment is most suited for use there.

Estimating Genetic Diversity in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Lines: Cluster Analysis and Trait Impact

Kumari Pragati — 2024-08-30

The present investigation was carried out in rabi 2023-24, with the objectives to study about genetic diversity in sixty elite lines of chickpea. The observations recorded for eleven morphological traits were subjected to estimation of genetic diversity using the Mahalanobis D² statistics and the clustering of genotypes was performed using Tocher’s method. The results of analysis revealed that sixty genotypes were grouped into ten different clusters. Having 27 genotypes in total, cluster I was the largest, followed by cluster II with 7 and cluster III having 6 genotypes. The cluster X was solitary. Highest inter-cluster distance was obtained between cluster VIII and X (295.30) while highest intra-cluster distance was obtained for cluster IX (103.60). Lowest inter-cluster distance was obtained between cluster II and X (74.17) while lowest intra-cluster distance was obtained for cluster X (0). The characters which majority contributed towards the diversity in these genotypes was seed yield per plant (16.7%) followed by days to maturity (16%), biological yield (12.9%), days to 50% flowering (11.4%) and Number of primary branches (10.1%).

Influence of Liming and Phosphorus Application on Growth of Soybean in Acidic Soil of Chandauli, Uttar Pradesh, India

Bharti Yadav — 2024-08-30

The objective of this research is to solve problem due to acidity and phosphorus deficiency in soybean crop grown in acidic soils. As acidic soils have an abundance of exchangeable forms of aluminum and hydrogen and a low supply of basic cations, they limit the productive potential of crops. The retention of phosphorus (P) is usually high in acidic soils. At the study area, soil acidity is well-known for limiting the productivity of crop. This study was conducted to determine the influence of liming and phosphorus application on growth of Soybean in acidic soil of Chandauli district. Factorial combinations of four levels of lime (0, 25, 50 and 100% of lime requirement) and four sources of phosphorus (No phosphorus, triple super phosphate, Mussoorie rock phosphate and phosphate rich organic manure) were laid out in completely randomized design with three replications. The results revealed that lime x phosphorus interaction were significant for plant height and relative chlorophyll content SPAD. Findings shows that lime @100% significantly increased the plant height and SPAD values of soybean plant and remained at par with lime @50%. Similarly, application of phosphorus source PROM significantly increased the plant height and SPAD value and remained at par with TSP. Combined application of lime @100% + PROM significantly increased the growth of soybean crop. It remained at par with lime @100% + TSP, lime @50% + PROM, lime @50% + TSP, indicating saving of 50% lime and PROM can be considered as a sustainable alternative that contributes to both phosphorus availability and soil health. The results of the study verified that application of lime and phosphorus sources improved growth and growth related traits of soybean crop.

Influence of Plant Growth Regulators on Yield and Qualitative Parameters in Strawberry (Fragaria x anannasa) cv. Winter Dawn under Protected Cultivation

Maya Lamba — 2024-08-30

The present investigation was carried out during 2021-2022 to find out the effect of plant growth regulators on yield and qualitative parameters in strawberry (Fragaria x anannasa) cv. Winter Dawn under protected cultivation at Precision Farming Development Centre (PFDC), Department of Horticulture, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The experiment was conducted with ten treatments using randomized block design. Each treatment had three replication. The treatment consisted of three different concentration of plant growth regulators viz. T₁: NAA 25 ppm, T₂: NAA 50 ppm, T₃: NAA 75 ppm, T₄: GA₃25 ppm, T₅: GA₃50 ppm, T₆: GA₃75 ppm, T₇: CCC 500 ppm, T₈: CCC 750 ppm, T₉: CCC 1000 ppm and T₁₀: Control. The yield and quality of strawberry were significantly influenced by plant growth regulators. The highest quality of fruit in term of berry weight (16.57g), berry breadth (2.87cm), berry length (3.97cm), TSS (9.38^oBrix), TSS/acid ratio (14.89) and ascorbic acid (60.13mg/100g) were observed in T₉ treatment which was consist cycocel@1000 ppm while GA₃@75 ppm gave maximum results in terms of marketable yield (88.27%), yield per plant (304.26g) and anthocyanin (5.67mg/100g) in strawberry fruit.

Determining the Effect of Potassium and Zinc on Growth and Yield of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.)

Abhishek Ranjan — 2024-08-31

The field experiment was conducted in Crop Research Farm (CRF) in Department of Agronomy during Zaid season 2023-24 on Pearl millet crop. The treatment consisted of Potassium (30, 40 and 50 Kg/ha) and Zinc (15, 20 and 25 kg/ha) and a control. The experiment was laid out with a Randomize Block Design (RBD) with ten treatments which are replicated thrice as T₁ Potassium 30 kg/ha + Zinc 15 kg/ha, T₂ Potassium 30 kg/ha + Zinc 20 kg/ha, T₃ Potassium 30 kg/ha + Zinc 25 kg/ha T₄ Potassium 40 kg/ha + Zinc 15 kg/ha, T₅ Potassium 40 kg/ha + Zinc 20 kg/ha, T₆ Potassium 40 kg/ha + Zinc 25 kg/ha, T₇ Potassium 50 kg/ha + Zinc 15 kg/ha, T₈ Potassium 50 kg/ha + Zinc 20 kg/ha, T₉ Potassium 50 kg/ha + Zinc 25 kg/ha and a T₁₀ Control. The soil of experiment plot was sandy loamy in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 6.8), low in organic carbon (0.46%), available N (225.42 kg/ha), available P₂O₅ (38.2 kg/ha) and available K₂O (240.7 kg/ha). Application of Potassium 50 kg/ha + Zinc 25 kg/ha was recorded with the results which revealed that significantly highest growth attributes of Pearl millet at 80 DAS viz., Plant height (203.24 cm), dry weight (144.17 g), Ear head length (30.23 cm), grains/head (1848.78) and yield attributes such as Grain yield (4530.43 kg/ha), Stover yield (7246.59 kg/ha).

Study on Character Association and Deciphering the Direct and Indirect Effects thorough Path Coefficient Analysis in Cucumber

Impa H R — 2024-08-31

Important information on the mutual association between the traits is of para amount importance for the successful plant-breeding program. Fifty-five cucumber genotypes were evaluated during 2022 at College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, Karnataka in RCBD to evaluate the association between traits further to determine the direct and indirect effects. The results of correlation estimation implied that yield/plot observed significant desiarble correlation with No. of branches/plant, last harvest duration, fruit length, No. of fruits/plant and fruit yield/plant at genotypic level. No. of branches/plant, inter-nodal length, No. of nodes/plant, days taken to first harvest, fruit length, No. of fruits/vine and fruit yield/vine showed desirable direct effect on yield/plot at genotypic level. The present study suggested that selection ideology based on these parameters will be effective for improving yield/plot trait in cucumber.

Extending Cucumber Shelf Life: A Comparative Study of Low-Cost Drip Cooling Systems Using Different Fabric Coverings

Joanna P. Feril — 2024-09-01

Aims: Postharvest losses of cucumbers pose significant challenges for small-scale farmers in developing regions due to limited access to modern cold storage. This study investigated the effectiveness of low-cost indigenous drip coolers with different fabric coverings as an alternative preservation method.

Study Design: Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments and three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Crop Science, Surigao del Norte State University – Mainit Campus, Mainit, Surigao del Norte, Philippines on March 1-20, 2024.

Methodology: Cucumber fruits were stored in indigenous drip coolers constructed with various recycled fabric coverings. Treatment combinations were: T1 - Control ambient temperature, T2 - Alpha Gina fabric, T3 - Silk satin bedsheets, T4 – Cotton comforter, and T5 - Cotton Blanket. The study evaluated color change, firmness, shriveling index, visual quality rating, weight loss, and damage rate over 20 days storage period.

Results: Significant differences in cucumber fruit quality emerged at different time points across various parameters. Differences in color change and firmness were observed on day 15 (p = 0.023), while shriveling and visual quality showed differences by day 20 of storage (p = 0.042 and p = 0.042, respectively). However, in terms of weight loss, the Alpha gina fabric significantly had the highest loss among fabric covers used (p = 0.038). Consistently, the control ambient group exhibited the poorest quality, while treatments like the cotton comforter and silk satin bedsheet were most effective in preserving cucumber quality.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates the effectiveness of indigenous drip coolers in preserving cucumber quality, with silk satin bedsheets and cotton comforter coverings consistently outperforming other materials and ambient conditions. These coolers were effective in slowing color change, maintaining firmness, reducing shriveling, and preserving overall visual quality. The study highlights the importance of fabric selection in drip cooler design, with cotton comforter and silk satin bedsheet coverings likely offering better air circulation, moisture retention, and insulation.

Investigating the Ochratoxin Production Potential of Aspergillus spp in Indian Rice: A Comprehensive Study

Nandinidevi, S. — 2024-09-01

Rice (Oryza sativa), world’s second most important cereal crop and most commonly consumed grains in the world. Though more than 100,000 species of fungi are known to exist, majority of mycotoxigenic fungi belong to the species of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium. Among Aspergillus spp, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus ochraceus are known to produce Ochratoxin A (OTA), a notable mycotoxin having adverse effects due to ubiquitous presence, renal toxicity and lengthy persistence. Totally eighty-one samples including unpolished (n = 36) and polished rice samples (n = 45) were collected in various districts of Tamil Nadu to identify ochratoxigenic fungi particularly Aspergillus spp. Out of 81 samples, 62 % (50/81) of samples including unpolished (n = 24) and polished rice (n = 26) documented the occurrence of ochratoxigenic fungi. Extraction of OTA was carried out by agar plug method and the ability of fungus to produce OTA was quantified by RP HPLC-FLD analysis. Among the fungal genera, Aspergillus spp (80 %) recorded the predominant fungus in rice. Molecular confirmation of ochratoxigenic fungi A. niger and A. ochraceus isolates was performed by 18s rDNA analysis. OTA producing ability by RP HPLC-FLD analysis revealed A. ochraceus of section Circumdati recorded the highest OTA production than A. niger isolates of section Nigri. The concentration range of OTA by A. ochraceus vary between 12.33 - 196.84 ng/g and 0.18 - 2.82 ng/g respectively in A. niger isolates. Among the A. ochraceus isolates, potent isolate AO 9 documented the highest OTA production (196.84 ng/g) followed by AO 6 (104.74 ng/g). Similarly, in A. niger AN 1 showed highest production of 2.82 ng/g followed by AN 5 isolate (1.25 ng/g) respectively. The objective of the study is to determine and quantify the ochratoxin production potential of Aspergillus spp in Indian rice by RP HPLC-FLD analysis. The occurrence of Aspergillus spp in rice and the subsequent ochratoxin production raise concern about possible health risk to animal and human environment upon consumption. Hence there is need for improved storage practices and regular monitoring to prevent the prevalence of Aspergillus fungus and OTA contamination in rice supply chain.

Assessment of Vertical Nutrient Stratification in Paddy Cultivating Soils in Vepurikota Microwatershed of Andhra Pradesh, India

G. Sivanagaraju — 2024-09-02

A thorough soil investigation was conducted to assess the soil's ability to supply nutrients by examining the vertical nutrient distribution pattern in the pedons of paddy growing areas in the Vepurikota microwatershed in Andhra Pradesh. The results revealed that soils were low in available nitrogen and medium to high in available P₂O₅, low to high in available K₂O and deficient to sufficient in available S. In both the surface and subsurface horizons of every pedon, the DTPA extractable Cu was revealed sufficient in the soils. All pedons in the surface and subsurface horizons had deficient to sufficient amounts of available Zn, while all pedons except pedon 4 had sufficient quantities of available Fe and Mn that were above critical levels.

Effect of Nano Fertilizers on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Hitesh Borana — 2024-09-03

A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, College of Agriculture, Jodhpur during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2022-23. The field experiment was tested in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with fourteen treatments replicated thrice. Results showed that the application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) + seed treatment (ST) with nano DAP and two foliar sprays of nano urea at 35 and 55 days after sowing (DAS) was found the most effective treatment with recorded highest number of tillers (431/m²), length of spike (17.03 cm), number of spikes (414 /m²), number of grains (45.24 /spike), test weight (46.32) and grain yield (4399 kg/ha) on pooled basis. However, this treatment was found statistically at par with treatments of 100 per cent RDF + 2 foliar sprays (FS) of nano urea at 35 and 55 DAS, 100% RDF + FS of nano DAP at 35 DAS, 75% RDF + ST with nano DAP and 2 foliar spray of nano urea at 35 & 55 DAS but significantly superior over other treatments.

Effect of Different Seed Priming Treatments on Seed Quality Components of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Ravi Dixit — 2024-09-03

The effects of different seed priming treatments, namely tap water, KNO₃ @ 2.5%, Thiourea @ 1000 ppm, CaCl₂ @ 2%, NaCl₂ @ 2%, ZnSO₄ @ 1%, KH₂PO₄ @ 1% and Salicylic acid @ 100 ppm solutions, on seed quality parameters of Barley cv. K-1055 and K-409 in Factorial Completely Randomized Block Design with four replications were investigated during 2022-23 and 2023-24 at the laboratory of Department of Seed Science and Technology, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur. Analysis of variance revealed that the all recorded seed quality parameters were significantly affected by various seed priming treatments. Priming with KNO₃ @ 2.5 % showed maximum 1000 seed weight, standard germination %, seedling length, seedling root length, seedling shoot length, seedling dry weight, seed vigour index-I and seed vigour index-II.

Effects of Native Rhizobia on Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] Production and Soil Properties in Daloa, Center-West of Côte d’Ivoire

Kouadio Amani — 2024-09-03

The field experiment study was conducted at the experimental station of Jean Lorougnon Guede University in Daloa to evaluate the potential effects of native rhizobia strains on soybean production and soils properties. The experiment was layout in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments include seven native strains, one exotic strain (Bradyrhizobium japonicum IRAT FA3), one synthetic fertilizer NPK 12-22-22 formulation and one negative control (no fertilizer, no inoculation). Agronomic parameters (plant height, plant dry biomass, nodule number plant^-1, pod number plant^-1, pod weight plant^-1, seed yield ha^-1) and soil parameters (pH, total nitrogen, orgnanic carbon, organic matter and available phosphorus) were measured. Results showed that all tested native rhizobia enhanced nodules number, plant growth and soybean yield as compared to negative control. Among these native rhizobia, RSC119 and RSC504 induced more nodules than the introduced strain B. japonicum IRAT FA3. RSC119, RSC309 and RSC508 produced more pods and seed yield than the introduced strain B. japonicum IRAT FA3 and the synthetic fertilizer NPK 12-22-22. RSC508 induced the highest pods number plant^-1 (102 pods) and seed yield (4.2 t.ha^-1). Moreover, these local bacteria had positive effects on soil properties following the soybean’s harvest. Among these bacteria, RSC119 enhanced mostly total nitrogen, organic matter and available phosphorus, then RSC508 significantly reduced soil acidity. This study therefore suggests that local rhizobia are effectiveness and could be use as inoculum to improve soybean productivity and soil properties restoration.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on Soil Physico-chemical Properties in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Intercrop under Beul (Grewia optiva Drummond.) Based Agroforestry System and Open Condition

Prakash — 2024-09-03

The raising human health hazards due to excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in India leads cancer patients. To overcome such problems there is need of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) in our major crop wheat and further to improve soil fertility under agroforestry system. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out to study the impact of INM on the physical and chemical properties of soil when wheat intercropped under Beul (Grewia optiva) based agroforestry system in the mid-hill region of Himachal Pradesh at Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, HP (India). INM practices were applied to evaluate their effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility, crop yield, and overall soil health. The experimental setup included various treatment combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers viz., T₁: RDF, T₂: FYM, T₃: Vermicompost, T₄: Goat manure, T₅: 50% RDF+50% FYM, T₆: 50% RDF+50% VC, T₇: 50% RDF+50% GM, and T₈: Control to determine their synergistic effects on the soil and cereal crop. These treatments were randomly assigned to plots under two planting conditions: S₁ (under Beul based agroforestry system) and S₂ (open condition), with three replications each, following in a factorial randomized block design (RBD). The key physical parameters such as bulk density (g/cm³), particle density (g/cm³), porosity (%), and soil moisture (%) were measured along with chemical properties of soil including soil pH, EC (dS/m¹), organic carbon content (%), and nutrient availability of N, P and K in kg per hectare. The soil data of two consecutive years and pooled data were analyzed in R Statistical Software. The results demonstrated that INM significantly improved both the physical and chemical soil properties in agroforestry system as compared to control treatment i.e. open condition. The use of 100 % FYM found to be best treatment during the course of study among various treatments of INM for soil porosity, soil moisture, soil pH, available N, P and K. The soil structure and nutrient availability were increased in second year as compared to first year which will lead to improve the growth and yield of wheat crop. The study underscores the importance of adopting INM practices in agroforestry system to achieve sustainable agriculture as well as chemical free agriculture in hilly regions of Himachal Pradesh which will be helpful for human health. Thus, the use 100% FYM fertilizer is recommended for farmers in hilly area of Himachal Pradesh for sustainable agriculture and natural farming. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers and policymakers aiming to optimize crop production and maintain soil health in similar agro-ecological zones.

Impact of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Yield Characteristics of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Abhishek Kumar Das — 2024-09-04

The experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm (SIF) of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh in the Rabi season of 2023-24. A Randomized Block Design was used for statistical analysis, with 10 treatments and 3 replications. The primary objectives of this study involved assessing the crop growth and yield attributes, in mustard crops subjected to different treatments. These treatments consisted of various chemical fertilizers, bio fertilizers, and nano fertilizers used in different combinations. Results revealed that, the effect of treatment T₁₀ [Nano DAP @ 40ppm + RD of N&K (120:60) + Azotobacter @2 kg ha^-1 + PSB @4 kg ha^-1] was found to be best in terms of growth and yield attributes of crop, whereas minimum growth and yield attributes of crop was found under the effect of treatment T₅ [Nano urea @ 60ppm + RD of P&K (60:60)].

Phytotoxic Effect and the Efficiency of Different Herbicides and Nitrogen Levels on Weed Control in Wheat Crop

Narayanaswamy Jeevan — 2024-09-04

A field experiment was carried out during the winter (rabi) season of 2018–19 at the Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, to evaluate the impact of herbicides and nitrogen levels on phytotoxic effect and the efficiency of different herbicides and nitrogen levels in wheat. The wheat field was infested with nine weed species such as Phalaris minor, Cynodon dactylon, Anagallis arvensis, Melilotus indicus, Chenopodium album, Vicia sativa, Medicago denticulata, Solanum nigrum, and Cyperus rotundus. Among these, Cyperus rotundus and Cynodon dactylon were the major weeds. Visual phytotoxicity indicated that phytotoxicity was observed under pinoxaden (40 ml ha^-1) + 2, 4-DEE (750 ml ha^-1). The data pertaining to available N, P₂O₅, K₂O in soil after harvest of crop revealed that application of herbicides and nitrogen levels observed non-significant differences except higher available K₂O in soil observed by application of pinoxaden 5.1%EC + 2,4- DEE 38%EC (40+750 ml ha^-1) significantly over weedy check and statistically at par with rest of the treatments. Further, higher weed management index (WMI) was recorded under HW twice plot (30&60 DAS) was 0.13 followed by under application of sulfosulfuron (25 g ha^-1) + 2, 4-DEE (750 ml ha^-1) was 0.11. Weed density and biomass had strong negative correlation with grain yield (r = -0.39 and r = -0.40, respectively). The interaction effect of highest grain and straw yields were achieved with the application of Sulfosulfuron (25 g ha⁻¹) + 2,4-DEE (750 ml ha⁻¹) in combination with 180 kg N ha⁻¹.

Comparative Analysis of Soil Physico-Chemical Properties Across Different Land-Use Systems

Komal Bhatt — 2024-09-04

A research investigation was conducted at the Research Farm, the Department of Forestry, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, located in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of various land-use regimes on the physical and chemical characteristics of soil during the Rabi season, namely during the fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24. An experimental split-split plot design was used to perform the experiment. The main plot consisted of two land-use systems: Agroforestry system (S₁) and Open system (S₂). The sub-plots were the different crop establishment methods: Broadcasting (M₁), Line sowing (M₂) and Transplanting (M₃). Within each sub-plot, four sub-sub plots were laid which represented different boron levels: Control (B₀), 1 kg B ha^-1 as Basal (B₁), 2 kg B ha^-1 as Basal (B₂) and ½ kg B ha^-1 as Basal + ½ kg B ha^-1as foliar (B₃). The soil samples under the treatments were tested to determine the physico-chemical properties of the soil. The results indicated that the agroforestry system had a significantly positive influence on the physical and chemical properties of the soil, in comparison to the open system. The agroforestry system reduced pH (7.07), bulk density (1.30 g cm^-3) and electrical conductivity (0.28 dS m^-1) in soil. The agroforestry system promoted organic carbon (0.72%) and water holding capacity (39.52%) of soil. Available nutrients viz. nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and boron in the soil, with respective values of 290, 18.8, 191 kg ha^-1 and 0.76 mg ha^-1increased under agroforestry system compared to the open system. Therefore, this study asserts that among the different land-use systems, agroforestry enhances the physico-chemical properties, and adoption of tree based farming system in the long run can improve soil fertility.

The Effect of Combination of Azotobacter, Trichoderma and Chemical Fertilizers on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Yield in Gwalior Region, Madhya Pradesh, India

Annabatula Sree Vidya — 2024-09-05

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the influence of Azotobacter and Trichoderma viride, along with chemical fertilizers, on wheat yield and economics in the Gwalior region of Madhya Pradesh, India.

Study Design: With ten treatment and three replications, the experiment was carried out using RBD (Randomized Block Design).

Place and Duration of Study: During the Rabi season of 2023, the field trial was carried out at the experimental field of Crop Research Centre (CRC) of ITM University in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.

Methodology: Different combinations of 50%, 75% and 100% recommended doses fertilisers, Azotobacter and Trichoderma viride, had been included in the treatments. The wheat variety Raj-4037 has been used and yield parameters were noted. Analysis was also done on economic variables.

Results: The treatment with 100% RDF + Azotobacter + Trichoderma viride (T₈) produced the highest grain yield (4127.17 kg ha^-1), straw yield (4474.35 kg ha^-1), and biological yield (9162.91 kg ha^-1). This treatment also achieved the highest gross income (₹119,071.87), net income (₹ 78,281.67), and benefit-cost ratio (1.92). The results indicated that combining microbial inoculants with chemical fertilizers significantly enhances wheat yield and economic returns.

Conclusion: The combined application of Azotobacter, Trichoderma viride, and chemical fertilizers significantly improves wheat yields and economic returns, making it a viable strategy for enhancing wheat productivity in the Gwalior region.

Residue Analysis and Dissipation Study of Dinotefuran in Paddy Field Using a UHPLC-MS/MS Method and Risk Assessment

Sakthiselvi T — 2024-09-05

Dinotefuran is widely utilized to control sucking insect pests in rice crops due to its high efficiency and relatively low hazard potential. However, repeated applications within a single crop season raise concerns about residue deposition in plants and surrounding environment. Therefore, the current study was executed to understand the degradation of foliar sprayed dinotefuran in paddy field after one, two and three application frequencies in a modified QuEChERS method and analysis using UHPLC-MS/MS. The method was linear with corresponding correlation coefficient (R²) > 0.99. The method achieved recovery rates of 78.11-109.30 % in plant matrices and 70.93-75.50% in soil matrices at spiking concentrations of 0.01, 0.05 and 0.10 µg g⁻¹. Precision, expressed as repeatability (RSD_r), ranged from 1.99-6.99 % in plant matrices and 1.09-4.06 % in soil matrices and intra-laboratory precision expressed as Horwitz ratio (HorRat) was within 0.3. In the field trial, 500 g of soil samples, 200 g of paddy leaf, grain and straw samples were collected from each replicate for analysis. Soil samples were collected from 0-15 cm layer, while, healthy leaf, grain and straw samples were collected from at least 10 sites per plot. Dinotefuran showed rapid dissipation rates in rice, with half-lives ranging from 1.62 to 2.21 days in leaves and 7.05 days in grains after different application frequencies. No residues were detected in the soil samples regardless of the application frequencies from the 0^th day itself. Significant differences in residue levels were not observed among different application frequencies attributed to similar environmental conditions during the growing period. As residues in leaves were below the maximum residue limit on the initial day of application, no waiting period is recommended. All harvested samples were free of residues. Dietary risk assessment indicated that the risk quotient values were below 1, suggesting low risks for consumers.

Influence of Various Organic Sources on Soil Nutrient Status and Nutrient Uptake of Ragi under Guni Method

H. S. Latha — 2024-09-05

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif-2019 at the farmers field of Mylandahalli in Chikkaballapura distict of Karnataka, to study the effect of organic nutrient sources on soil nutrient status of finger millet under Guni method. The trial was framed out in randomized blocked design with twelve treatments replicated thrice. The results showed that supplement of SWC @ 50% N eq. + EBDLM @ 50% N eq. ha^-1+ PG spray @ 3% (T₉) had a significant effect on nutrient uptake, fertility status in soil and their values were statistically higher than all the other treatments. The findings of study reported that supplement of SWC @ 50% N eq. + EBDLM @ 50% N eq. ha^-1+ PG spray @ 3% (T₉) recorded significantly higher uptake of total nitrogen (124.7 kg ha^-1), phosphorus (27.2 kg ha^-1) and potassium (84.9 kg ha^-1). Likewise, the same treatment had recorded superior in available soil nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (413.8, 44.6 and 223.1 kg ha^-1, respectively) compared to other treatments and recommended FYM (10 t)+100:50:50 kg N: P₂O₅: K₂O ha^-1 found to be least in soil nutrients and uptake during cropping period of kharif 2019.

Impact of Bacterial Isolates on Phosphate Amendment Solubilization in Rice Cultivation on Acidic Soils

Thierry Philippe Guety — 2024-09-05

This study was carried out in 2023 at the National Agronomic Research Center (CNRA) station in Man, in west of Côte d'Ivoire. The aim of this study was to improve the efficiency of Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) in the mineralisation of various Phosphate Amendments (PA). Culture, isolation and purification tests on strains from the study site revealed the dominance of one strain. In the laboratory, it was associated with different treatments. The results show that it has a very highly significant effect on the parameters of the cultivation environment. The treatments increased pH. As the number of PSBs increased in the environment, dissolved P and Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) levels increased, while pH decreased over time. DOC levels were higher with inoculation (1.96 mg.kg^-1). The rate of mineralised P was highest (49.5 mg.kg^-1) on treatment T8 (0%PR (Phosphate Rock+100%TSP (Triple Superphosphate)) but treatment T5 (60% PR+40% TSP) would be the most appropriate for field trials; compared with day 1, it gave, on average, the highest rate of P released. The combination of PSB and PA would be a promising alternative for increasing the effectiveness of PA, particularly with regard to the use of Phosphate Rock (PR).

Effect of Crop Establishments Methods and Nutrient Management on Productivity and Profitability of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Pardeep Kumar — 2024-09-05

A field experiment was conducted at Crop Research Center, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, with compare the production potential under different crop establishment methods and nutrient management and also to find out the economic viability of this cultivar for soil quality. The treatments comprised of Main Plot Puddled Transplanted Rice (C₁), Un-puddled Transplanted Rice (C₂) and Raised-Bed Planting (C₃) Sub Plot Control (N₁), 100% NPK (150: 75:60) (N₂), 50% RDN + FYM @15ton ha^-1 (N₃), 50% RDN + vermicompost @ 5ton ha^-1 (N₄), 50% RDN + FYM @15 ton ha^-1 + Bio-stumulant G @ 20Kg ha^-1(N₅) and 50% RDN + vermicompost @ 5 ton ha^-1 + Bio-stumulant G @ 20Kg ha^-1 (N₆). revealed that crop establishment methods treatment C₁ (Puddled Transplanted Rice) and Nutrient management N₆(50% RDN + vermicompost @ 5ton ha^-1 + Bio-stumulant G @ 20Kg ha^-1) exhibited significant influence on yield attributes and yields of rice as compared to the application of Un-Puddled Transplanted Rice and control treatment.

Land Suitability Evaluation for Improvement of Banana/Plantain Production in Bayelsa State, Southern Nigeria

Achimota A. Dickson — 2024-09-05

With climate change affecting the world, increasing population requires improved soil resource assessment, management and environmentally friendly use of land to support food security. Bayelsa State is known to be one of the topmost producers of banana/plantain but the escalating climate change variability in Nigeria has heightened irregular rainfall patterns, exacerbating land degradation resulting in more severe floods and erosion reducing land available for banana/plantain cultivation. Hence, this land suitability evaluation of some communities land situated on the lower Niger River plain of Bayelsa State through field study approach supported by laboratory analysis. Land suitability classes were determined by matching land characteristics with plant growth requirements. Apart from Elemebiri 3 (ELM3) and Trofani 3 (TFN3) considered not suitable (N2) due to annual flooding, the actual land suitability of the remaining sixteen SMUs were marginally suitable (S3). The inhibiting characteristics affecting land suitability for plantain/banana production included high rainfall, annual flooding, poor drainage, low CEC and low organic carbon. Improvement efforts recommended included dredging of the river systems, elaborate drainage structure, fertilization and application of organic manure/organic fertilizer. Potential suitability classes obtained following improvement efforts included not suitable (N2) for ELM3 and TFN3, and moderately suitable (S2) for Elemebiri1, Elemebiri 2 (ELM2), Odoni 1 (ODN1), Odoni 2 (ODN2), Odoni 3 (ODN3), Trofani 1 (TFN1), Trofani 2 (TFN2), Odi 1 (ODI1), Odi 2 (ODI2), Odi3 (ODI3), Koroama 1 (KRM1), Koroama 2 (KRM2), Koroama 3 (KRM3), Niger Delta University 1 (NDU1), and Niger Delta University 2 (NDU2) as well as marginally suitable for Niger Delta University 3 (NDU3). The flood plain soils of Bayelsa State will have moderately suitable (S2) potential for plaain/banana production provided the relevant improvement efforts are carried out.

Character Association Studies for Yield Attributing Traits Across Different Seasons in Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br]

V. Uma Maheswari — 2024-09-05

The purpose of the present investigation was to assess the association of different characters among 36 advanced hybrids, 12 B lines and 3 R lines with grain yield per plot pooled across the seasons Kharif and summer and to demonstrate the direct and indirect effects of various characters on grain yield. The results on correlation in the present study revealed that, in general, the genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than their corresponding phenotypic correlations. Grain yield had genotypically significant positive correlation with most of the characters under study viz. plant height (0.955), effective tillers per plant (0.848), flag leaf length (0.992), flag leaf width (0.985), leaf length (0.987), leaf width (0.971), panicle length (0.234), panicle width (0.153), maximum PS II efficiency (0.215), fresh biomass (0.994), dry biomass (0.993), harvest index (0.997), 1000 seed weight (0.990) across the two seasons indicating any increase in these traits will increase the yield. The genotypic path analysis revealed high positive direct effect on grain yield per plot with respect to plant height, panicle width, actual PS II efficiency, fresh biomass, dry biomass and 1000 seed weight indicating importance of these characters, which can be strategically used to improve the yield of pearl millet.

Effect of Vermicompost and Vermicompost Tea on Vegetative Growth of Rubber Plants under Nurseries Conditions

Jean Lopez Essehi — 2024-09-05

Success in rubber growing is linked to the production of vigorous plants in the nursery. However, this cruel stage faces difficulties related to the cost of chemical fertilizer and its availability. This work carried out in 4 localities (Bimbresso, Alépé, Abengourou and Daoukro) in Côte d’Ivoire aimed to improve the production of rubber plant material in nurseries in polyethylene bags using vermicompost and vermicompost tea. The experimental design used is a Fisher block with three treatments and two repetitions. The vermicompost, vermicompost tea and control factors were compared with each other. The addition of vermicompost tea and the control for three months while the addition of vermicompost was done only once. The results indicated that vermicompost tea is the most effective treatment for the vegetative development of plants regardless of the study site. In Bimbresso, the vermicompost tea and vermicompost treatments showed the highest increases with 1.23 and 1.21 mm.month^-1, compared to 1.13 mm.month^-1 for the control and the highest average values of diameter at the collar. 10.1 mm was obtained with vermicompost tea. Also, the highest rate of graftable plants, grafting success and plants transferable to the field was obtained with vermicompost tea. Likewise, the mortality rate obtained with vermicompost and vermicompost tea was less than 20%. These treatments could be recommended in the production of rubber plant material.

The Effects of Organic Fertilizers and NPK on Growth and Yields of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata. L) in Kano Plains Kisumu, Kenya

Oyata E. B. Balah — 2024-09-05

Excessive use of inorganic mineral fertilizers as an agronomic practice has resulted in the depletion of soil organic matter of soils of many regions thereby rendering such soils infertile and unable to maintain sustainable production. The use of organic amendments provides the immediate strategy for compensating for soil carbon depletion thereby reducing land degradation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of six organic amendments on the growth and yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L) as compared to the conventional use of inorganic fertilizer NPK. The organic amendments were Boom Max, Ecoplanting, Evergrow, Dung slurry, Filter mud, and Market waste slurry applied to the soil at 8.33 t/ha against NPK (9:15:20) at 250 kg/ha. The experiment was laid in a RCBD. Data on growth and yields was collected on 10 tagged plants per plot. The results showed differences among treatments. Mature composts (Boom Max, Ecoplanting, and Evergow) resulted in a significantly (p< 0.05) higher germination percentage (53.49% on average) compared to that of Filter mud (41.50%) and the slurries (34.18% on average) while all the composts resulted in 25% higher number of branches on the average in season two as compared to the bio-slurries. In season three, Boom Max gave the highest germination percentage (41.02%) which was significantly higher than those of Evergrow (29.80 %), Filter mud and Dung slurry (27.18% on average) and NPK and Market waste slurry (5.64% on average) but not different from that of Ecoplanting. Five of the amendments had significantly better germination rates than NPK by an average of 20%. There were no significance differences (P≤0.05) in growth parameters between the mature composts and the NPK fertilizer, suggesting that the mature composts were equally efficient in nutrient supply to the crop as did the NPK fertilizer for plant growth. The application of organic amendments produced significant improvements in fresh leaf yields of the cowpea crop, with the highest yield recorded from the Boom Max applied plot (5781 kg on average), which was not different from others in seasons one and three but significantly different from that of NPK in season three. It can be concluded that depending on choice or type of amendment, organic manures are capable of producing similar or better results of crop growth and yields as the inorganic fertilizers.

Growth Parameters and Protein Content of Maize as Influenced by Sowing Methods and Different Levels of Nitrogen

Bhanu Singh — 2024-09-05

The field experiment was carried out at Research Farm, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India during Kharif season, 2021. The experiment envisages to study the effect of Sowing methods and different Nitrogen levels on yield and attributes of maize crop. The experiment was laid down in the Split Plot Design and the treatments were replicated three times. The maximum plant height of 56.92 cm, 235.17 cm and 237.16 cm was observed in the ridge method of sowing at knee height stage, tasselling stage and at harvest stage, respectively. Among nitrogen levels, the maximum plant height of 57.61 cm, 235.29 cm and 238.38 cm was observed at knee height stage, tasselling stage and at harvest stage, respectively in the treatment (N5) 25% N through granular urea + 75% N through Nano-urea. Among nitrogen levels, the maximum DMA of 86.30, 425.36 and 1287.73 g sqm^-1 day^-1 was observed at knee height stage, tasselling stage and at harvest stage, respectively in the treatment (N5) 25% N through granular urea + 75% N through Nano-urea. At harvest stage number of leaves per plant were highest in the S1 (14.33) and N5 (16.13) treatment. Among nitrogen levels, the maximum leaf area index (LAI) of 1.55, 2.49 and 1.9 was observed at knee height stage, tasselling stage and at harvest stage, respectively in the treatment N5. Among sowing methods, highest protein content was found in the ridge method (10.14%) followed by flat method (9.81%) and broadcast method (9.42%) of sowing. The protein yielded maximum of 586.15 kg ha^-1 in the N5 treatment. All parameters showed better in granular urea application rather than nano-urea, when used solely.

Management of Rice Sheath Blight with New Chemicals in Srikakulam District of Andhra Pradesh, India

Chitti Babu G — 2024-08-31

Rice sheath blight is one of the most economically important rice diseases in the world. Sheath blight, a soil-borne disease caused by the fungus Rhizoctoniasolani AG1-IA (Teleomorph: Thanatephoruscucumeris (Frank) Donk), is a devastating disease. The disease leads to a significant drop in grain yield and quality and yield losses of up to 50% have been reported under the most favorable circumstances. Despite farmers' chemical control measures against the disease, pathogen causes serious early crop losses every year. KVK Srikakulam conducted on farm trials on Sheath blight management in paddy fields to inform farmers about new and highly effective chemicals during Kharif, 2020 and 2021. A recent new chemical, Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% (T1) at 1.5 ml/l was effective in reducing the incidence of the disease, recorded 88.2% and 81% disease incidence during 2020 and 2021, respectively. Trifloxystrobin 11% + tebuconazole 75% (T2) at 0.4 g/l was also comparable to T1, registering disease incidence of 82% and 75% in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Whereas, in the Propiconazole 11.4% @ 1.0ml/l treatment (Farmers method), the incidence in 2020 was only 67.0% and the incidence in 2021 was 65.0%. Azoxystrobin 11% + Tebuconazole 18.3% treated plots produced higher yields compared to farmers' practices. Although the chemical is more expensive than what farmers typically use, disease incidence is significantly reduced after just one spray and results in higher product yields.

A Review on Depth Wise Nutrients Status in Punjab’s Soils

Md. Junaid Hashmi — 2024-08-23

Punjab, which is well-known for its agricultural output, has significant difficulties in preserving soil fertility in the face of intensive farming methods. The depth-wise distribution of nutrients in Punjab's soils is examined in this review, which is important to comprehend agricultural sustainability. Several agricultural zones provided soil samples, which were then examined for important macronutrients (N, P, and K) and micronutrients (Zn, Fe, Mn, and Cu). Recent article contains status of soil nutrients of Punjab emphasizing mostly deficits elements that may hinder crop growth. It was also reflected by the researchers that because of intensive farming methods and insufficient replenishing, nitrogen levels become low with time. Analyzing the d ata published by the research papers it was observed that potassium and phosphorus levels were moderate, although significant deficits were found in several locations. Micronutrient investigation revealed that iron and manganese levels were comparatively adequate, but there was a general shortage in zinc in this region. The review emphasizes that in order to maximize soil fertility and increase crop yields, region-specific nutrient management practices are necessary. The application of organic amendments, balanced fertilization techniques, and routine soil testing to identify and correct nutrient imbalances are among the recommendations. In order to maximize fertilizer applications, improve nutrient use efficiency, and guarantee Punjab's long-term agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability, these variations must be taken into consideration. This review emphasizes how crucial it is to implement customized soil management plans in order to prevent nutrient depletion and maintain the area's agricultural future.

Impact of Weed Management Options on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.): A Review

Pritika Thakur — 2024-08-29

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) belongs to Fabaceae family and a vital legume crop in India, serving as a primary source of protein in the Indian diet. It is essential to the nutrition of thousands of people in the developing world but at present its productivity is extremely low in India. There are various reasons for low productivity. Among the various factors that contribute to the low production losses resulting from weeds, one of the most significant one’s accounts for 30–54% of the total loss. Understanding the weed populations in the field in full detail is necessary to determine when to manage weeds. Due to their slow development and growth rate, chickpea is a poor crop competition with weeds. Up to 60 days after sowing, it competes with chickpea weeds due to its few branches and little leaf area. Various management techniques, such as cultivar competition, spacing adjustments, etc., are helpful in increasing output. Pre-emergence herbicides like pendimethalin, quizalofop, etc., are more effective in order to control the weeds right from the germination. Post-emergence herbicides like imazethapyr, imazamox and topramezone etc., applications are becoming more important as the world enters the era of precision farming. Chickpea is highly susceptible to weed competition and the weeds causes 75% of yield losses. Considering the losses caused due to weeds, it is essential to manage the weeds within their critical crop-weed competition period. Combining two or more herbicides, either simultaneously or in a sequential 'double knockdown' approach, and integration of hand-weeding with pre-emergence herbicides, offers effective management of various weed species while minimizing the risks associated with post-emergence chemical weed control methods.

A Comprehensive Review of Irrigation Systems Utilizing Sensor Technology

R. H. Kotadiya — 2024-09-05

The increasing need for water has become a significant cause for worry regarding the future of irrigated agriculture in numerous regions of the country. Hence, understanding the water requirements of crops is a crucial practical aspect for enhancing water utilization efficiency in irrigation methods. Conventional irrigation systems result in uneven water distribution, with certain sections of a field receiving excessive irrigation and others facing insufficient water supply. Given the evolving environmental conditions and water scarcity, there is a demand for a more effective system to manage field irrigation efficiently. The objective of this paper is to examine the necessity for soil moisture sensors in irrigation, explore sensor technology and assess their applications in various facets of agriculture and irrigation scheduling.