A scientific commitment towards crop improvement and production through scientific application of basic and strategic research such as hybridization, marker-assisted selection, double haploidy, RNAi, exploitation of male sterility etc. can revolutionize crop productivity. However, parallel improvement in input-use efficiency, especially water-and nutrient-use efficiency, a better understanding on the role of micronutrient in enhancing quality of nutrition coupled with scientific understanding of ecological parameters leading to pest and diseases management will enhance production and productivity. None of the above is possible unless we assure disease-free seed and quality planting material and technology at farmers’ doorstep. Fortunately, India is blessed with one of the largest human resources for basic, strategic and applied research. But this knowledge has to be captured, documented, streamlined and managed. I am confident that publication of the Current Horticulture would fulfil the current gap in scientific knowledge of basic and strategic research. Indexed/Abstracted with - Google Scholar, CNKI Scholar, EBSCO Discovery, National Academy of Agricultural Sciences(NAAS) rating 2021 - 4.62, Scopus -Applied For, Ebsco, Wos - Applied For, Base, Cross ref, ICI, ASI
Effect of seed soaking and growing media on seedling vigour and economics of acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia)
Acid lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) is the most commercially important fruit crops of India. Seeds of acid lime are soaked with plant growth regulator such as gibbrellic acid (GA3) as well as with organic substance such as cow urine, cow dung slurry and water for better seed germination. GA3 controls mobilization of starch which acts as a respiratory substrate leading to immediate enhancement in cell elongation (Meghwal et al. 2021). Cow dung slurry also contains some growth promoting substances N, P, K, micronutrients and biodigestable enzymes which cause for softening of seed coat, enhancing seed germination and growth of seedlings (Raj et al. 2014). Water soaking of seeds is done to modify hard seed coats, remove inhibitors, soften seeds and reduce the time of germination. Media must also have good water holding capacity, drainage, physical and chemical properties for growth of seedlings (Solanki et al. 2023). Keeping in view, an experiment was conducted.
Assessment of suitable variety of marigold (Tagetes erecta) for northern dry zone condition
This field experiment was laid out by adopting F test at farmers’ fields of marigold (Tagetes species Linn.) at Mutkod and Kellur village of Jewargi taluk during 2018-19. Totally 3 treatments were considered by three different varieties, Arka Agni and Arka Bangara 2 from IIHR, Bengaluru and local variety from Jewargi. The mean value of plant height was highest in Arka Agni (40.16 cm), followed by local variety (35.6 cm) Arka Bangara 2(33.6 cm). The variation in plant height due to genotypic differences in phenotypic expression of plant height is due to genotype-environmental interaction effects on plant height.
Study on underground storage of potato (Solanum tuberosum) during winter in Ladakh
The passive underground storage of potato (Solanum tuberosum) was designed and potato tubers of Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Himalini and Kufri Girdhari were stored in passive underground storage during November 2022 - April 2023 at Defense Institute of High-Altitude Research, Leh Ladakh. Of three cultivars, tubers of Kufri Girdhari showed lowest total weight loss as compared to other varieties. Potato is most valued non cereal crop in Ladakh. It is consumed by the locals as well as the army deployed here, all through the season. The crop is multiplied vegetatively using tuber as seed material usually (Paul et.al., 2022). The crop is cultivated in May and harvested in September. During the harsh cold winter, continuous supply of fresh vegetables is not possible as the region remains landlocked during November - May. Transport of vegetables through air route is expensive as it charges around Rs 130/kg. In such cases, storage of potato for long period of winter becomes essential (Singh and Srivastava ,2012). Moreover, to address food insecurity, it is crucial to boost productivity and expand the area dedicated to potato production (Jatav et.al., 2023) The study was carried out in underground passive storage located at Leh (77.57298º E; 34.13298º N; elevation 11482 ft) during November - April (Fig 1). Potato tubers of Kufri Jyoti, Kufri Himalini and Kufri Girdhari were used for study. Potatoes were properly cured, free from damages and stored in perforated leno bags (35kg each). The observation for weight loss and rotting were done monthly. Temperature and humidity were also recorded during the storage period with testo 175 H1 data logger.
Effect of foliar application of organic liquids on yield and quality of garlic (Allium sativum)
The effect of foliar application of organic liquids on growth, yield and quality of garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Yamuna Safed-3” was studied at Regional Horticultural Research Station, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat during rabi season (2019-20). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications and nine treatments, viz. Panchagavya, novel plus, Jeevamrut and cow urine at each of 1% and 2% concentration and the control (no spray). The foliar application of Panchagavya @ 2 % (T2) gave significantly maximum plant height (55.05 and 60.61 cm at 75 and 90 DAP, respectively), whereas maximum number of leaves/plant (7.0 and 8.13 at 75 and 90 DAP, respectively) and minimum days to maturity (127.37 days) were also reported in novel plus @ 2 % (T4). The novel plus @ 2 % (T4) recorded significantly maximum fresh weight of bulbs (24.79 g), dry weight of bulbs (16.73 g), diameter of bulb (3.75 cm), number of cloves/ bulb (18.60), weight of clove (2.16 g), length of clove (3.48 cm) and yield of bulbs (3.97 kg/plot and 7.87 t/ha). The plants sprayed with novel plus @ 2 % (T4) recorded higher total soluble solids (16.87and 22.43 0Brix at 2 and 4 MAH, respectively), ascorbic acid content (20.30, 18.30 and 15.97 mg at 2, 4 and 6 MAH, respectively) with maximum storage life of 219.67 days at room temperature. However, maximum net income of ₹2,36,012/hawith a benefit: cost ratio of 3.00 was recorded in foliar spray of Novel plus @ 2 % (T4) as compared to rest of the treatments.
Relationship analysis among intergeneric hybrids of Ascocentrum based on floral characters
A study was undertaken for characterizing 30 intergeneric hybrids of Ascocentrum orchid based on floral characters and cluster analysis. The results showed that variety V25 (Mokara Syam Ascocenda Doung Porn) produced more number of spikes/plant/year (7.86), whereas, variety V11 (Vascostylis Blue Bay White) produced more number of florets/spike (40.67). Hybrid V3 (Ascocenda Kultana × Vanda Bitzs Heartthrob) had highest length (9.33 cm) and width (9.00 cm) of flower. Cluster analysis with 14 floral characters was done by classifying hybrids/varieties into 12 groups. Cluster 2 and 5 had five members, whereas, cluster 11 and 12 with only one member each. The cluster 2 and cluster 5 were less similar to each other with an inter-cluster distance 6.27,whereas highest inter-cluster distance was observed in cluster 6 and cluster 10 (41.47). Cluster 10 had high mean values for spike length (51.12 cm), flower length (7.94 cm) and width of flowers (7.50 cm). whereas cluster 6 which included V6 (Ascocenda Sirichi Fragrance) and V11 (Vascostylis Blue Bay White) had lowest internodal length with the highest value for number of florets/ spike. This cluster also observed to have low flower length and width (2.52 cm and 2.42 cm, respectively). This indicated that these varieties produce flowers in the dense bunch.
Estimation of magnitude of heterosis for growth traits in onion (Allium cepa)
The experiment was conducted to estimate the magnitude of heterosis for growth traits in onion (Allium cepa L.) for 28 F1s crosses at SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner, Rajasthan. These genotypes were planted in randomized block design with three replications under 3 date of sowing during rabi season,2022-23. The most heterotic crosses for growth contributing characters were RO-59 × Bhima Shakti, Pusa Shobha × Pusa Red, Bhima Shakti × Pusa Shobha RO-59 × Pusa Shobha, Kashi No. 1 × Pusa Red and RO-1 × Pusa Red. The crosses had significant heterobeltiosis for growth contributing characters RO-59 × Bhima Shakti, Bhima Shakti × Pusa Shobha, Pusa Shobha × Pusa Red RO-1 × Kashi No. 1, RO-1 × RO-59 and RO-1 × Pusa Madhavi. These crosses were considered promising for their use for growth improvement in onion.
Evaluation of grafted brinjal (Solanum melongena) for doubling yield in climate resilient condition
A field experiment on grafted brinjal Solnum meloagena L. was conducted at Agoor village, Villupuram district, Tamil Nadu, India, during November 2020-December 2021. Turkey berry (Solanum torvum Sw.) resistant to verticillium wilt and bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum), was used as rootstock for grafting of brinjal. Seeds of Turkey berry were soaked in water for 12,24 and 36 hours and sown in 98 cavity protrays containing well decomposed cocopeat and raised beds. The germination was significantly higher when Turkey berry seeds was soaked for 36 hours and sown in protrays. After 30 days of Turkey berry sowing, brinjal seeds were sown in 98 cavity protrays. The scion from 30-35 days old brinjal was grafted on 55-60 days old rootstock, Turkey berry using grafting clips and kept under shade net. The crop duration was significantly higher in grafted brinjal compared to seedlings. The grafted brinjal was maintained up to one year. The fruit yield was significantly higher in grafted brinjal (6.01 kg / plant and 60.6 t / ha) compared to seedlings (3.12 kg / plant and 30.14 t / ha). The gross income was significantly higher in grafted brinjal than seedlings. The net income of ₹.5,41,300/- was recorded with benefit cost ratio of 2.51 in grafted brinjal. Shoot-borer infestation was less and easily manageable in grafted brinjal. The fruit-borer infestation (11.70%) was lower in grafted brinjal than seedlings (21.55%). There was no wilt incidence in grafted brinjal.
Response of packaging material and storage condition on postharvest quality of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa) loose flowers
The study was carried out at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to study the response of packaging materials, viz. woven bag, high density polyethylene (HDPE) 51 micron , low-density polyethylene (LDPF) 25 micron, muslin cloth bag and bamboo basket (control, without packaging) and two storage conditions, i.e. ambient condition (22) and cold storage (or low temperature) condition (and 85-95% relative humidity) on keeping quality attributes of loose flowers of single petalled tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa Linn.) cv. Arka Prajwal. Fully developed unopened florets were harvested in early morning (before sunrise). The packaging and storage condition significantly influenced all parameters. Among all treatments, loose flowers packed in HDPE 51 micron bag and stored under cold storage recorded maximum flower diameter (8.99 mm), flower opening index (77.85%), colour (whiteness) index (89.13%) and shelf-life (6.00 day) of loose flowers under cold storage condition. On the other hand, in control treatment the above said parameters recorded were 6.98 mm, 50.00%, 54.10% and 3.50 day, respectively. Under ambient condition, maximum flower diameter (8.08 mm), flower opening index (66.00%), colour index (91.85%) and shelf-life (4.00 day) of flowers were recorded with HDPE 51 micron packaging. In control treatment, these parameters were 6.73 mm, 50.00%, 63.77% and 1.50 days, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that among packaging materials HDPE 51-micron thickness bag was found to be the best for packing of loose flowers of tuberose cv. Arka Prajwal under both ambient and cold storage conditions.
Effect of processing methods on cyanogenic compounds, protein, and minerals of cassava leaves
This study investigated the effects of boiling, drying, and ensiling on linamarin content, protein content, and mineral composition of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) leaves. The drying was found effective method for reducing linamarin content in most genotypes. Boiling had variable effects, with some genotypes showing similar or slightly lower linamarin levels compared to fresh leaves. Ensiling significantly reduced linamarin content after 7 days, with the reduction remaining stable up to 20 days, indicating its effectiveness in reducing cyanogenic compounds. However, genotypes, H 1687 and Malayan 4, showed a decrease in protein content during ensilage, suggesting potential nutritional changes. The study also observed dynamic changes in mineral composition of cassava leaves, with copper, zinc, iron, and manganese varying over time. These findings highlight the impact of different processing methods on nutritional quality of cassava leaves, emphasizing the need to consider these factors when using cassava leaves as animal feed.
Effect of nano nitrogen and phosphorus on yield and quality of ber (Ziziphus mauritiana)
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Mandor, Jodhpur (Rajasthan) to find out the effects of nano nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on growth, yield and quality of ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.) using factorial randomized block design with 5 replications during October 2021 to March 2022. There was maximum plant height (6.45 %, 79.17 cm), number of primary branches (14.72), secondary branches (22.09), chlorophyll contents (55.34 SPAD), fruit volume (20.63cm3), specific gravity (0.95), fruit length (3.42 cm), fruit diameter (3.16 cm), pulp thickness (12.56 mm), pulp weight (15.79 g), pulp: stone ratio (19.20),fruit setting (6.92 %), average fruit weight (18.00 g), yield/ tree (64.57 kg), ascorbic acid (vitamin-C) (65.75 mg/100g pulp), total soluble solid (15.77°Brix), total sugar (9.20 %), reducing sugar (4.83 %), non-reducing sugar (4.37 %), fruit pH (5.50), whereas minimum stone weight (0.82 g) and fruit drop (49.38 %) were recorded with application of nano nitrogen @ 2 ml/ litter water + nano phosphorus @ 2 ml/ litter water spray over the control.
Evaluation of Trichoderma, Psedomonos and biofertisol as foliar application on quality and yield of guava (Psidium guajava)
The experiment was designed in Randomized Block Design in four replications with seven treatments, i.e. T1 - control (only water), T2 –Trichoderma viride 5%, T3-Trichoderma viride 10%, T4 - Pseudomonas 5%, T5 -Pseudomonas 10%, T6 -biofertisol 5% and T7 - biofertisol 10%, at Department of Horticulture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, in 8 year old guava (Psidium guajava L.) variety L 49, during 2020- 21 and 2021-22. Foliar application of Trichoderma @ 10 % was most beneficial for growth, yield and quality parameters. Trichoderma @ 10 % recorded maximum increment in shoot length, plant height, canopy height, leaf chlorophyll Index, chlorophyll content index, LAI. Foliar application of 10% Trichoderma wasalso superior in yield parameter found maximum number of flowers shoot, fruit set percentage, fruit retention percentage, fruits/shoot, fruit/splant, yield/plant, fruit length, fruit width, fruit weight, fruit volume, pulp weight/fruit and pulp per cent. Total soluble solids, total sugar, and reducing sugar were recorded in Trichoderma 10% (T7) and minimum acidity was recorded in foliar application of Pseudomonas 10% (T5) .
Impact of pre- harvest foliar spray of nutrients and agrochemicals on fruit yield and quality of ber (Zizyphus mauritiana)
A field experiment was conducted to find out the impact of pre- harvest foliar spray of nutrients and agrochemicals on fruit yield and quality parameters of ber (Zizyphus mauritiana Lamk) during 2022-23 and 2023-24 at SKN College of Agriculture, Jobner, Rajasthan. Among nutrients and agrochemicals, application of T11 (ZnSO4 @ 4g/L + CaCl2 @ 2g/L + chitosan @ 1.5g/L +salicylic acid @ 1g/L) to individual plants was significantly superior to all other treatments, but it was on a par with T9 (CaCl2 @ 2g/L + salicylic acid @ 1g/L), T7 (ZnSo4 @ 4g/L + salicylic acid @ 1g/L) and T5 (ZnSO4 @ 4g/L + CaCl2 @ 2g/L). In treatment T11 (ZnSo4 @ 4g/L + CaCl2 @ 2g/L + chitosan @ 1.5g/L + salicylic acid @ 1g/L), an increase in days taken to first harvesting (137.00 days), days taken to complete harvesting (57.11 days), fruit weight (18.51 g), diameter of fruits (3.59 cm), fruit yield (38.01 kg/tree), fruit yield (105.68 q/ ha), maximum TSS% (19.05 0Brix) and minimum titratable acidity (0.415 %) were recorded.
Evaluation of taro (Colocasia esculenta)-based cropping system for crop diversification under rainfed upland ecosystem of eastern India
A field experiment was conducted at the Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, during 2018-2020 on alfisols under rainfed conditions to identify most productive, resource use-efficient and remunerative taro-based cropping system. The experiment consisted of seven treatments, T1- sole taro, T2- sole maize, T3- sole pigeonpea, T4- taro+maize (5:1), T5- taro+maize (5:2), T6- taro+pigeonpea (5:1) and T7- taro+pigeonpea (5:2). The results revealed that the cormel equivalent yield (CEY) was greater in T1 and it was statistically on a par with T4 and T6. The LER of T4, T5, T6 and T7 were found >1. This indicated that all the above intercropping systems were biologically efficient. However, advantage of intercropping system was disappeared in T5, T6 and T7, when evaluated via ATER concept. The treatment T1 resulted in higher gross and net returns as well as B:C ratio however, it was statistically on a par with T4 and T6. Taro can be recommended for cultivation as a sole crop under upland ecosystem of eastern India. The treatment taro+maize (5:1) (T4) can also be recommended for cultivation under rainfed conditions of eastern India for efficient use of resources, and optimum yield and returns. The intercropping system taro+pigeonpea (5:1) (T6) can also be considered when more emphasis was given on soil health.
Response of guava (Psidium guajava) genotypes to air-layering under sub-humid southern Rajasthan
The evaluation of genotypes of guava (Psidium guajava L.) for air-layering under sub- humid southern plains of Rajasthan conditions was done during July 2015-16 at RCA, MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan. The study involved a diverse set of genotypes, including L-49, Allahabad Safeda, Lalit, Red Fleshed, Pant Prabhat, Safed Jam, Arka Amulya, Arka Mridula, MPUAT S-1, MPUAT S-2, Shweta, Burfkhan, Sarbati, RCGH-1, and One-Kg. The results revealed significant variation among the genotypes in terms of their rooting characteristics. The genotype Lalit stood out, exhibiting the earliest root initiation, the highest percentage of rooted air-layers, the greatest survival percentage, and the highest vigour index, while number of secondary roots was highest in L- 49 and root: shoot ratio in Shweta. On the other end of the spectrum, the genotype One-Kg showed a poor response to rooting, making it less ideal for air-layering propagation under the tested conditions. Thus, genotype Lalit is particularly well-suited for propagation through air layering under sub-humid southern Rajasthan.
Effect of container size on yield and root morphology of different fruit crops
The experiment was conducted to standardize container gardening techniques for fruit crops to meet the nutritional requirement of city dwellers at ICAR-CISH, Lucknow, during 2017-20. The maximum average plant biomass (1072 g/plant) was noted in guava (Psidium guajava.) and minimum (423g) in pomegranate (Punica granatum.), maximum shoot biomass (1012.11g) was recorded in plant grown in 45 cm × 45 cm and minimum (402.78g/plant) in 30 cm × 30 cm container. Destructive method was used to extract the root mass for analysis. There was maximum root biomass (506.11g) in guava and minimum (239.86g) in pomegranate, however root biomass was recorded significantly maximum (509.78g) in 45 cm ×45 cm. Root to shoot ratio was recorded maximum (0.63) in Citrus lime (Citrus aurantifolia swingle). When the plant size is similar, high root to shoot biomass is preferred. The root shoot ratio had significant correlation with stem girth and negatively correlated with fruit weight, fruit yield and root hairs diameter. Collar diameter has significantly positive correlation with plant height, fruit weight and yield. The container size as well as growing media (substrate) influenced plant growth, root and shoot biomass, fruit yield and root morphology remarkably.
Trends and developments in vegetable research In India — a review
Vegetables are an integral component of horticulture sector, praying a pivotal role in the tapestry of Indian agriculture. Their substantial contributions extend to enhancing global food security and nutritional well-being. During 2021-22, India produced 204.84 million tonnes of vegetables, covering the area of 11.35 million hectares, with a fresh vegetable export value worth 865.24 USD millions. The AICRP on Vegetable Crops has forged a national network to test vegetable technologies in India. In the past five decades, 587 vegetable varieties, 442 production technologies, and 42 protection technologies have been developed through AICRP. The use of molecular markers has been proven promising in several vegetable crops, however only limited example of improvements are available from India. Through genetic engineering several biotic and abiotic stress resistant lines are developed. The genome editing has opened a new avenue in development of improved lines, however it is just gaining momentum in vegetable research in India.
Genetic variability and character association for growth and yield characters in Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus) under rainfed semi-arid conditions
The genetic variability and character association were studied in 60 genotypes of dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus var. typicus L.) during 2018-2023 at Central Horticultural Experiment Station (ICAR- CIAH), Panchmahals (Godhra), Gujarat. A degree of variation was observed for all characters. High Phenotypic Co-efficient of Variation (PCV) and Genotypic Co-efficient of Variation (GCV) were recorded for primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, Pod length, pod weight and pod yield/plant. The high PCV and GCV were recorded for primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, pod length, pod weight and pod yield/plant indicated maximum variability in the genotypes. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent mean was observed for plant height, number of primary branches/plant, number of pods/plant, pod length, pod girth, pod weight and pod yield/plant indicating that these characters are controlled by additive gene action. Thus, selection for these characters will improve the yield. Pod yield/ plant exhibited positive and highly significant correlation with number of branches, number of pods/plant, pod length, pod girth, pod weight at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. Hence these traits should be considered as important selection criteria for improvement of pod yield/plant.
Effect of zinc and corm size on growth and corm yield in gladiolus (Gladiolus spp.)
An experiment was conducted at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, to find the effect of soil application of zinc sulphate and corm size on growth and corm parameters in gladiolus cv. Malaviya Kundan during 2018-19. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design replicated 4 times where mother corms of seven different sizes and zinc sulphate at three different levels were used. The largest-sized corm (4.0 cm) was found to be the best in growth characters like leaf length, scape width and number of leaves/plant. Application of zinc at various doses also provided positive response in days to sprouting and leaf length. Bigger- sized corms (3.0-4.0 cm) produced more no. of corms and cormels/hill, increased diameter and weight of corms compared to small size of mother corms (1.0-2.5 cm). All the doses of zinc sulphate failed to exert any significant effect on production of corms and cormels.
Ramification of post-harvest thermal disinfestation technology for mango fruit flies [Bactrocera spp. (Diptera: Tephritidae)] across India
Mango (Mangifera indica) is the most important fruit crop of India with high potential in export and foreign exchange. An impediment in mango fruits export has been the infestation by Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) and B. zonata (Saunders). The adoption of pre-harvest Integrated Pest Management (IPM) developed by ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) reduced infestation by 95% (Stonehouse et al., 2005, Verghese et al., 2002). Subsequent improvement of pre-harvest control using ovipositional deterrence gave more than 98% control (Verghese et al., 2020). However, for exports, 100% disinfestation is mandatory. For the most part, postharvest pest control is focused on trade and exports. In order to achieve safe post harvest disinfestation several experiments and studies were conducted on main commercial varieties using hot water (45oC to 48oC), for different lengths of time to standardize the thermal disinfestation protocol which is internationally acceptable (Yahia and Campos, 20. All the studies were conducted at ICAR-IIHR where orchards of major export mango varieties are available.
Response of integrated nutrient management and micronutrients on quality, nutrient content, uptake and soil of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)
The experiment was conducted to find out the response of integrated nutrient management and micronutrients on quality, nutrient content, nutrient uptake and soil parameters of tomato at College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Vaso, during rabi season in 2019-20 and 2020-21. The randomized block design with factorial concept having 14 treatment combinations with three replications comprising two factors having two levels of micronutrients and seven levels of INM was used. Different treatments of INM and micronutrients improved the quality, nutrient uptake and soil parameters. The maximum titrable acidity (0.92%) recorded with M1: zinc@ 100 & N6: 50% RDF + 50% N from vermicompost + bio NPK, while maximum TSS (5.38 oBrix), lycopene (3.08 mg/100 g) and vitamin-C (34.93 mg/100 g) recorded with N6. For nutrient uptake, M1: zinc @ 100 ppm recorded maximum nitrogen uptake by plant (119.71 kg/ha). In INM, treatment N5 recorded maximum nitrogen content (1.72%), phosphorus (0.68%), potash (1.38%), nitrogen uptake (125.75 kg/ha), phosphorus uptake (44.42 kg/ha) and potash uptake (54.95 kg/ha). The INM treatment N5: 50% RDF + 50% N from FYM + Bio NPK recorded maximum microbial count (6.2 × 107 and 7.5 × 107)during 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively and also maximum available N2O (271.77 kg/ha), available P2O5 (51.08 kg/ha), available K2O (257.13 kg/ha), organic carbon (0.45%), minimum electrical conductivity (1.13 dS/m) and pH (7.76).
Response of different fertigation levels and cultivars of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) on yield and economic benefit
A field study was conducted to evaluate the “response of different fertigation levels and cultivars of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) on yield and economic benefit” at the Department of Horticulture, Dr. K.S.G.A. College of Agriculture, Eternal University, Baru Sahib (HP) during 2021-2022. The experiment was set up using a Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with 12 treatment combinations, which included four levels of fertigation (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and three cultivars (Camarosa, Chandler, and Winter Dawn) and replicated thrice. The maximum value of fruit setting (99.21 %), number of flowers/plant (20.36), yield/plant (425.27 g) and yield/plot (5.10 kg) were noted in fertigation level F3 (100% recommended dose of NPK). The highest fruit setting (96.58 %), number of flowers/plant (19.14), yield/plant (381.31 g), yield/plot (4.57 kg) were recorded under “Chandler” cultivar whereas, maximum fruit setting (98.91 %), yield/plant (442.18 g) and yield/plot (5.30 kg) were obtained with treatment combination T12 (Camarosa+100% RDF dose of NPK through drip) as compared to other treatments. The maximum Cost: benefit ratio (3.31) was observed in treatment combination T12 (camarosa with 100% recommended dose of NPK through drip).
Ethno-botanical study of plants used by Kodava tribes in Kodagu district of Karnataka
The ethnic knowledge on medicinal value of major plants viz. Justicia wynaadensis, Remusatia vivipara, and Bambusa bambos consumed by Kodava tribes in Kodagu District of Karnataka, India was carried out to preserve the herbal/medicinal plant wealth and their proper usage, as there is a decline in human expertise to identify and recognize various medicinal plants. Data were documented using conventional ethnobotanical methods such as interviews and discussion with local populace of Kodava tribals (headmen, healers, and elderly persons) of the study area using a semi-structured questionnaire comprising information about plants and their local names, plant parts used, time of usage, method of sample collection and preparation of dishes, their nutritional and their use in traditional folk medicines, and any other specific comments. The study indicated that J. wynaadensis, locally known as Maddh toppu or Kurinji Toppu or Aati soppu, undergoes a mysterious transformation in terms of chemical constituents during wet and dark months of the monsoon, which is responsible for its medicinal values. During Kakkada padinet, Kodava people consume Maddu Payassa prepared from J. wynaadensis and believe that it generates heat and stabilizes the body temperature, and thus gives resistance against fever and cold during monsoon season. The R. vivipara is known as Mara Kesa, is used in folk medicine to cure inflammation, arthritis, to dispel worms and germs for disinfecting the genito-urinary tract. The consumption of newly emerged bamboo shoots (B .bambos) along with mushrooms is said to balance the body temperatures during heavy rainy days. In summary, the participants of the study underlined that these underutilized vegetables, major components in traditional dishes, offer enhanced nutritional and medicinal values when consumed especially during the monsoon season.
Application of microwave oven technology for dehydration of ornamental leaves
The standardization of microwave oven drying technology for dehydration of ornamental leaves was done. The embedding of leaves in silica gel and microwave oven drying (720 micro power, i.e. medium high) for 2 min was suitable technique for dehydration of ornamental leaves of Swietenia mahagoni, Acacia auriculiformis and Hamelia patens leaves. The time of 2.5 min was appropriate for leaves of Alstonia scholaris, Rosa spp., Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Bougainvillea glabra, 3 min for Lagerstroemia speciosa and 3.5 min for Polyalthia longifolia and Ixora chinensis.
Morphological and physiological responses of CMD resistant cassava (Manihot esculenta) genotypes to nutrient regimes
The field studies were carried out on cassava ( Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties resistant to cassava mosaic disease (V1-CR43-2, V2-15 S 59, V3-15 S 409 , V4-15 S 154, V5-CR43-7, V6-8S 501-2, V7-CR24-4, V8- 15S-436) and three levels of nutrient doses (F1-75:50:75, F2- 100:50:100 and F3- 125:50:125 kg NPK/ha) in spilt plot design during 2018-19 and 2019-20 to assess the response of varieties to nutrition. There was significant difference in morphological and physiological parameters among varieties, but not with different nutrient doses. The rate of leaf production was more 4-6 months after planting (34-40%) and percentage retention was less for first season crop (55.6-41.4%) compared to second season (77.2-52.5 %). Though not significant, higher nutrition levels recorded more number of green leaves as well as leaf area at most of the stages. Tuber bulking rate was 0.19 to 0.37 g/day during initial two months. The rate increased and maximum bulking was recorded between 4 and 8 months (2.15-6.71 g/day). Pooled analysis also showed a gradual increase in tuber yield with nutrient levels, but was not significant (7%). The varieties responded differently to nutrients with respect to tuber yield. F3 recorded higher tuber yield (66.9 t/ha) than F1 (45.7 t/ha) in V7 and V6 recorded highest tuber yield with F2 level of nutrition (71.1 t/ha). F1 was found optimum for rest of the varieties.
Effect of copper and zinc as a supplement fertilizer on growth of radish (Raphanus sativus) root and foliage
The foliar spray of copper (0.3%) and znc (0.4%) solution at 15 and 25 days of growth improved the plant height, fresh weight and root size of radish (Raphanus sativus L.). The application of copper and zinc along with N, P, K fertilizers improved crop growth more than the control. The concentration of 0.6% copper and 0.8% sinc showed some toxic effect and reduced growth of leaves and root but was better than the no application of Cu and Zn elements.
Evaluation of high temperature tolerant longmelon (Cucumis melo) cultivar
Longmelon (Cucumis melo L. var. utilissimus), a warm season crop, can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions. The cv. AHLM 2 (Thar Sheetal) has been developed to produce early fruiting with quality fruits free from bitterness coupled with tolerance to high temperature. Varieties developed by the private sector are used by the farmers and their seed are expensive. The release of Thar Sheetal, an open-pollinated cultivar with better fruit length (27.62 cm) and fruit weight (81.82 g) is a prolific bearer (18.20-21.87 marketable fruits/ plant). Thar Sheetal has high yield potential of 136.31 q/ has under hot arid conditions, which is 22.11% higher than the control ‘Punjab Longmelon-1’. It bears tender, attractive, light green fruits which are not bitter. Thar Sheetal can withstand high temperature and is able to set fruits up to 42º C under hot arid conditions.
Efficient in-vitro regeneration protocol in chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) from ray florets
The experiment was conducted to standardize regeneration protocol from ray florets in chrysanthemum cv. Pusa Arunodaya (TQP 06). For callus induction, the highest callusing percent (82.67%) with a minimum number of days for callus initiation (10.87 days) was observed in MS medium supplemented with Kinetin (10 mg/l) + NAA (1.0 mg/l) in treatment (T3). Highest shooting percent (69.33 %) with minimum number of days for shoot initiation (6.27 days) along with maximum number of shoots per explant (5.67 shoots) in MS medium supplemented with Kinetin (5.0 mg/l) + NAA (1.0 mg/l). In shoot proliferation, the highest number of shoots after 30 days (51.67), 60 days (72.00), and 90 days (98.67) in MS medium supplemented with Kinetin (5.0 mg/l) + NAA (1.0 mg/l). The highest rooting percent (85.00%) with least days for root initiation (7.00 days) along with maximum roots per shoot (8.00) and optimum root length (5.00 cm) in MS medium supplemented with IBA (0.2 mg/l). The rooted plants were successfully acclimatized in 3-4 weeks and survived under field conditions.
Impact of saline soils on grafted tomato (Solanum lycoparsicon) onto brinjal (Solanum melongena)
The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of salinity on horticultural traits of grafted tomato (Solanum lycopersiocon Mill.) onto brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) rootstock and to find out the best salt tolerance or resistant rootstock/graft combination during 2021-22 at ICAR-IIVR KVK, Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh. Three rootstocks (IC-111056, IC-354557, and Surya) and graft between three different scions (Kashi Aman, Kashi Chayan and NS-4266) were compared with their scions. Among rootstock, IC-111056 and IC-354557 were observed highly salt tolerant to saline condition which could be used as rootstock for further crop production in saline conditions and its use in conventional breeding programme to develop salt tolerant/resistant variety.
Variability in different isolates of Penicillium italicum causing blue mould rot in orange (Citrus reticulata)
Seven isolates of blue mould fungi (Penicillium italicum), causing blue mould rot on orange (Citrus reticulata Blanco) isolated from Jobner region exhibited variable growth on artificial culture media (PDA). The PI-1 appeared as dark green centre with white periphery. The other isolates had different colony characters with green to light blue centre surrounded by cottony to profuse colony peripheries. The disease intensities of blue mould isolates were also variable. The PI-1, PI-2 and PI-3 were at par, while maximum intensity (57.76 %) was recorded in PI-1 and minimum (21.12 %) in PI-7.
Bael Thar Bhavya: Its yield is 97.18 kg/plant in 10th year,each fruit weighing 0.65-0.78 kg,fruit size 11.15 cm × 10.24cm, fruit girth 37.43-39.25cm, shell thickness 0.16-0.18 cm, total number of seeds 56.25, fibre weight 38.00g, shell weight 97.17-105.00g, locules in cross section 14-16,pulp TSS 32.47-34.15°Brix, TSS mucilage 45.12-49.50°Brix, acidity 0.31-0.33% and vitamin C 19.24-21.63 mg/100g pulp. It is mid maturing variety (4th weekof April). Compact canopy, short in stature and semi-spreading growth habit, highly suitable for high density (5m × 5m) planting. The fruits have very good shelf life (10-15days) and suitable for sherbet and slice. It is highly suitable for nuclear family.