Experimentation of Micronutrients (MR-X solution) for
Soil Improvement Project.
Panchkhal Municipality, Kavrepalanchowk
2020

Prepared byRamesh Nath Regmi
Senior Agriculture Officer

Love Green Nepal, Lalitpur
Spice Crops Development Center, Panchkhal
Agriculture Section, Panchkhal Municipality
Supported by
Nihon Reuse Use System Co. Ltd. Japan

Acknowledgement
This report is about the results of the Experimentation of Micro-nutrients (MR-X solution)
under the joint Love Green Nepal (LGN) and Nihon Reuse System Pvt. Ltd. (JRS), Japan Soil
Improvement Project. The project was implemented in Panchkhal Municipality of
Kavrepalanchowk district of Nepal from February 2020 to January 2021.
A number of institutions and individuals have provided their support during theimplementation of this project. We would like to express our sincere thanks to Mr. Mahesh
Kharel, Mayor of Panchkhal Municipality who accepted the launching of the project inPanchkhal Municipality. We would like to thank Mr. Yub Raj Pandey, Chief of Spice Crops
Development Center (SCDC) who accepted to conduct the experiment in the premises of
SCDC. Our sincere thank goes to Mr. Narayan Gyawali, Executive Director of LGN for his
valuable suggestions and guidance during the project period.
Likewise, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to Mr. Shoji Onitsuka,
representative of JRS to Nepal for his continuous supports and guidance during theexperimentation period and report writing. We also appreciate the contribution of the model
leader farmers who have played a crucial role in the success of the project by taking part in thefield experimentation. Thanks are also due to the staff of Agriculture Section, Panchkhal
Municipality and Spice Crop Development Center for their supports and suggestions during the
project tenure. Lastly, we would like to thank LGN field staffs for their relentless work in the
COVID-19 pandemic situation which led to a successful completion of the project.

1

Table of Contents

Acknowledgement ......................................................................................................................................1
2. Objective of the MR-X experimentation: ...............................................................................................4
3. Materials and Methods: ..........................................................................................................................4
4. Brief description of crops used in MR-X solution experimentation ......................................................5
5. Description about the farmers participated in the experimentation........................................................7
6. Comparison parameters ........................................................................................................................11
7. Results and Discussion .........................................................................................................................11
7.1 MR-X experimenta2on in Hot Pepper ...........................................................................................11
7.2 MR-X experimenta2on in Bi8er Gourd..........................................................................................17
7.3 MR-X experiment in Lady Finger (Okra) ........................................................................................22
7.4 MR-X experiment in Akbare Khursani ...........................................................................................27
7.5 MR-X experiment in Maize (corn) .................................................................................................32
7.6 MR-X experimenta2on in Paddy (Rice) conducted in Spice Crop Development Center ................37
7.7 Experimenta2on conducted in Saraswo2 Adhikari’s farm, ward no 4, Tamaghat .........................41
8. Farmer's reaction in MR-X experimentation: ......................................................................................46
9. Soil Improvement Experimentation .....................................................................................................46
10. Conclusion ..........................................................................................................................................48
References: ...............................................................................................................................................49

2

1. Background
Panchkhal Municipality is located in the 45 km east of Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal.
This Municipality was formed in the year 2014. Panchkhal Municipality consists of 8948
households with the population of 40061. The municipality is situated in Bagamati Province ofCentral Nepal with geographic coordinates of 27° 39' 0" N, 85° 37' 0" E. According toWikipedia, Panchkhal has an average temperature of 24.9°C and average low of 11.66°C
throughout the year. Temperature may rise up to 38°C in the summer. Winter is generally dry
with record low temperature of -10°C was in 2008. Average annual rainfall is about 10.2 cm.
Rainfall is mostly monsoon-based (about 65% of the total concentrated during
the monsoon months of June to August).
1.1 Agriculture in Panchkhal Municipality
Panchkhal Municipality has flat land and suitable climate for various crops. Cropping intensity
in valley has increased greatly in the recent decades. Farmers today even grow up to three ormore crops a year which shows intensive use of land and growing commercialization ofagriculture in the valley. Panchkhal comprises two land types: khet (cultivated flat land) andbari (cultivated slop land). Bari covers 41.68 percent whereas khet covers 37.14 percent.
Panchkhal has been one of the famous commercial production pockets of the country. Farmers
in the valley commonly grow vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, cauliflower, cabbages, bitter
gourd, hot pepper, lady finger and other green vegetables; and cereal crops like paddy andmaize. More than 90% farmers in Panchkhal Municipality are small farmers owning less thanhalf a hector of arable land yet they supply more than 90% of agro-products to the market (presurvey). Therefore, extending support to the small farmers has become necessary for promoting
sustainable agriculture within Panchkhal municipality.
Being one of the areas of highly intensive agriculture in the country, crop production within the
Panchkhal municipality is heavily dependent on chemical fertilizers and pesticides; as a result,the health and wellbeing of the people in Panchkhal valley is at great risk due to the adverse
effects of indiscriminate use of these synthetic agro-chemicals. Moreover, continuous
application of chemical fertilizer and pesticides has resulted into a decline in the soil fertility.
Therefore, adopting a sustainable approach to agriculture production in order for safeguarding
the human and animal health; and the environment in Panchkhal valley has become an urgent
task.
1.2 The MR-X solutions
MR-X is a solution extracted from minerals, a kind of peat moss, taken from diatomaceous
earth strata that the deposition of chlorophyll-rich marine unicellular diatoms (sea kelp andplankton) was made a few hundred years ago. MR-X is easily bonds with iron and aluminum;
it prevents phosphoric acid fixing and makes less-effective-phosphoric acid into effective. Itbalanced natural minerals which influences plant growth has a positive influence for making
enzyme and soil active significantly. MR-X makes phosphoric acid active and enables plants to3

increase its absorption and even though reduces crop disease. Consequently, less agriculturalchemicals and phosphate fertilizers will be used. MR-X will solve the ground watercontamination which is caused by excessive use of less effective fertilizer of phosphate
nitrogen, herbicides and agriculture chemicals. In the homepage of United Nations Industrial
Development Organization (UNIDO) it has published about the effectiveness of MR-X
solutions for agriculture production.
Many experiments have shown that MR-X can be effectively used for seed disinfection which
results in good seed germination and healthy roots developments. The MR-X was first time
introduced in Nepal by N.R.S. Global Business Network Pvt. Ltd., Khairahani, Chitwan. They
tested MR-X in paddy and chilly at Khairahani municipality, Chitwan district of Bagamati
Province, Nepal in 2019. The result showed higher yield of paddy and chilly in MR-X usedfield in comparison to the non-used field. The growth of roots in paddy was observed thicker
whiter in MR-X used plot than non-used plot. The soil pH was also improved as it waschanged from acidic to neutral level and organic matter increased from 2.58% to 2.98%.
(Source: NRS, Japan publication and National Agriculture Hospital & Research Center Pvt.
Ltd., Ratnanagar, Chitwan, 2019).

2. Objective of the MR-X experimentation:
The broad objective of this experimentation was to study the effectiveness of MR-X solution invegetables production and soil improvement in the context of Panchkhal valley.

3. Materials and Methods:
The experimentation was conducted from February to September 2020 in different wards andSpice Crop Development Center, Tamaghat of Panchkhal municipality. Panchkhal is thepotential vegetables growing area and rice is cultivated in flat land by the farmers of
Kavrepalanchowk district. More than 90% farmers in Panchkhal Municipality belong to small
farmers' category owning less than half a hector of arable land. At the same time, these small
farmers supply more than 90% of agro-products to the market (pre-survey). Therefore,
extending support to the small farmers is necessary for promoting sustainable agriculture in
Panchkhal municipality.
The crop cultivation practices are based upon an abundant use of chemical fertilizers andpesticides in Panchkhal. An increased use of chemical fertilizers and a reduced application oforganic manure like compost and farmyard manure has resulted in increased acidity (84.5
percent of the total1618 soil samples tested under JPP project during 2019/2020 were low inpH) and decline in soil fertility. The population of beneficial soil micro-organisms might havealso vanished because of the insufficient organic matter in the soil.
The MR-X experimentation was carried out in collaboration with Agriculture Section ofPanchkhal Municipality and Spice Crop Development Center under the Provincial Ministry ofLand Management Agriculture and Livestock Development (MoLMAC) of Bagmati Province.
4

A number of coordination meetings were held between LGN and the government authorities
during the project to discuss the experiment related issues. Joint monitoring visits wereorganized during the crop cycle in order to have first-hand information about the efficacy andperformance of the solution. Farmers’ reaction and perception about value of the solution wascollected during such visits. The farmers who participated in this experimentation were Model
Leader Farmers selected by LGN under the Environment Friendly Integrated Sustainable
Agriculture Development Project. In order to carry out the experimentation and draw
meaningful conclusions, it is very crucial that methods and techniques of data collection are
precise and accurate. For this purpose, the field staffs were trained in MR-X solution
experimentation procedure, observation and data collection techniques were done. Before
implementation of the experiment, selected farmers were oriented on the objectives of thestudy and their responsibilities in the experimentation. The crops were selected according to
the farmers’ choice. Before planting, seeds were treated with MR-X solution as per theguideline provided by Nippon Reuse System Pvt. Ltd. The vegetable seedlings (hot pepper,
bitter gourd, Akbare khursani) and rice seedlings were prepared in nursery bed andtransplanted into the main field when seedlings were ready. But okra and maize seeds weredirectly sown in the main plot after seed treatment. All seeds were soaked overnight in diluted
MR-X solution before seeding. For the study two equal size plots was prepared for thecomparative study of MR-X solution. One plot for ‘MR-X used’ and another for ‘MRX not
used’. All the crop management practices were properly followed in both the plots. Five plants
were randomly selected from each plot and were marked for data recording purposes. Data forplant height, stem diameter, number of branches and leaves, number of tillers etc was taken.
The MR-X solution was diluted in water as per guideline provided by NRS, Japan and was
sprayed in treatment plot in two weeks interval. The data was recorded in every two weeks; but
in some cases intervals were more than two weeks due to COVID-19 pandemic and imposed
restriction in the movement.

4. Brief description of crops used in MR-X solution experimentation
4.1 Hot pepper: Capsicum annuum group, Family: Solanaceae.
More farmers have been attracted towards growing hot pepper as the demand for the same has
been on constant rise in recent years. Hot pepper is considered to be warm season and dayneutral plant. It can grow at wide range of altitude and seeds germinate best at 20-30oc. It cangrow in wide range of soil conditions. However, fertile medium loam soil rich in organic
matter and well-drained with a pH of 5.5 to 6.8 is generally considered as the most suitable. It
is a rich source of vitamin A and C among the vegetables. It is grown for curry and pickles. The
Big Mama 3 hybrid variety was selected for the MR-X solution experimentation.
4.2 Bitter gourd: Momordica charantia, Family: Cucurbitaceae.
Bitter gourd is a popular vegetable grown in Nepal. It is an annual, climber vine vegetable
crop. This crop is rich in minerals and vitamins in it which is successfully cultivated in terai to
mid-hill. Majority of the farmers in Panchkhal valley cultivate bitter gourd. It is considered agood food to arouse the appetite and is very useful for the people with high blood pressure and5diabetes. It requires warm and humid climate for good crop harvest. Temperature between 20
to 30oC is suitable for bitter gourd production whereas less than temperature of 18 oC and morethan 30 oC causes low number of female flowers and high count of male flowers with resultant
low fruit set. It can be cultivated in all type of soils but sandy loam soil with high organic
matter content and well drainage system is best for this crop. The soil pH is 6-7 isrecommended. The Maya white variety was selected for the MR-X solution experimentation.
4.3 Lady finger (Okra): Abelmoschus (Hibiscus) esculentus, Family: Malvaceae
Okra is one of the widely grown vegetables from tropics to sub-tropics and warmer parts oftemperate zones of the country. The tender fruits are cooked as vegetables. It contains vitamin
A, B and C with little iron. Matured fruits and stem containing crude fiber are used in the paperindustry. It belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is an herbaceous annual with bisexual flower
and erect vegetative growth with or without branches. The fruit is a capsule which may be lightgreen, green or sometimes red. Hot and humid weather is suitable for the growth of okra.
Optimum temperature requirement is 24-27 º C and temperature higher than 42 degree may
cause flower drop. It grows best in comparatively light soils ranging from sandy loam to loam
although it gives good crops in heavier soils with efficient drainage facility during the rainyseason. A pH range of 6 – 6.8 is ideal for okra cultivation. The Shankar variety was selected for
the MR-X solution experimentation.
4.4 Akbare khursani: Capsicum annuum L. Family: Solanaceae.
Akabare khursani is a native vegetable of Nepal. It possesses high demand in domestic andinternational markets as vegetable. It is one of the hottest chilies in the world. It is also known
as dalle khursani in some parts of the country. It is mostly grown in eastern part of Nepal andits surrounding regions as well as other parts of the country. It fetches a very good price inlocal markets. Some farmers have cultivated for commercial purpose and some grow it only forhome consumption. At present, diverse types of Akabare can be seen in the markets which
include non-pungent types too. Akbare khursani has medicinal value (regular use in diet helps
to control gastric problems). The Akbare khursani is used for fresh consumption and making
pickle for supply in the market. The Tehrathum local variety was selected for MR-X solution
experimentation.
4.5 Maize (corn): Zea mays L.,Family: Poaceae
Maize (Zea mays L.) is the second most important staple food crop of Nepal after rice. It is aprincipal food, feed, fodder, fuel crop and source of energy in hills and Terai. The suitableclimate for good growth and development of maize plant is warm weather with moderate
rainfall. The 20 º C is needed for germination and 21-27 º C is suitable for better growth ofmaize plant. Fertile, light loamy and sloppy or non-water logged soil is good for the maize
cultivation. Maize is rich in iron, folic acid and vitamin B6 which helps in the creation of red
blood cells in the body. It contains high amount of carbohydrates i.e. 74.26 gram ofcarbohydrates in 100 gram of maize. CP 808 hybrid variety was used for MR-X solution
experimentation.
6

4.6 Paddy (rice): Oryza sativa Family: Poaceae
Rice is a major food crop for the people of Nepal. The role of rice is immense in the current
and future national food security. It is the number one staple food crop in Nepal and contributes
significantly to livelihood of majority of the people and to the national economy. Rice cropneeds a hot and humid climate. It is best suited to regions which have high humidity; prolonged
sunshine; and an assured supply of water. The average temperature required throughout the life
period of the crop ranges from 21 to 37º C. The soil used in growing rice should have a goodwater holding capacity. Silt clay, silt clay loam and clay are some of the soil textures that are
best for rice farming. Fertile riverine alluvial soil is best for rice cultivation. White and brownrice contain mainly carbohydrate and some protein. Cooked rice contains a lot of water,
making up almost 70% of its total weight. The Khumal-8 and DY-68 varieties were selected by
SCDC and Saraswoti Adhikari farm respectively for the experimentation.

5. Description about the farmers participated in the experimentation
Brief description of the selected farmers/ farms where MR-X experiment was conducted as
below.
5.1 Mr. Sita Ram Sapkota, ward no 6, Dhunganabesi, Panchkhal municipality
Mr. Sita Ram Sapkota was one of the model leader farmers (MLF) developed by the LGN. He
owned 0.66 ha. (13 ropani) agriculture land for
cultivation. and were rearing three livestock for thefulfilment of milk requirement for homeconsumption and supplying manure for the farm. A
total of six family members were dependent on
agriculture. Mr. Sapkota was adopting the IPM
method of vegetables cultivation after he hadparticipated in 22 days long IPM farmers' field
school training program conducted by LGN under JPP project. Mr. Sapkota followed thefollowing cropping pattern year-round:
Paddy – Potato/vegetables - paddy
Maize – Cabbage – oil seeds/Maize
Two to three deep ploughings were done. No compost manure and chemical fertilizers wereused in the field as the fertilizers were applied in previous crops. The MR-X solution in hot
pepper was sprayed once at seedling stage in nursery bed at the rate of 10 ml. solution diluted
in 5 liters of water. The seedlings were transplanted at on April 04, 2020 in both MR-X usedand not-used plots. The total area for the experiment was 242 sq. m with 45 cm row to row and
30 cm plant to plant distances. Other crop management practices were carried out in both theplots as and when needed.
7

5.2 Mr. Shiva Raj Shrestha, ward no 7, Kafletole, Panchkhal municipality
Mr. Shiva Raj Shrestha owned a total of 0.41 ha (8 ropani) cultivated land a pair of large
livestock raised for the milk and manure. Four family members were dependent on farming.
Mr. Shrestha was a model leader farmer and had completed 22-week-long IPM farmers' field
school training. After the completion of the IPM training he started using the organic manure,cattle urine and botanical pesticides in farming instead of chemical pesticides. He had also
followed the recommended dose of fertilizer use in his crop. He had also established ademonstration field in his farm to demonstrate the new technologies, under the guidance andfinancial support by LGN. His farm was a learning spot to other farmers. The cropping pattern
he followed was as follows:
Paddy – Potato – Maize/vegetables
Maize – Paddy – Potato
MR-X solution in Lady Finger (Okra) was tested in his farm. The okra seed was soaked
overnight in MR-X solution and was directly sown in the main plots. The total experiment area
was 500 sq. m. and divided into two plots of 250 sq.
m each. The experiment plots were well preparedby two to three times ploughing by tractor. The
fertilizers DAP 4 kg, urea 2 kg, potash 1 kg and1200 kg compost manure were applied in to thesoil. Manure and fertilizers were well mixed into
the soil. Irrigation was applied to the field whenneeded by the crop. The healthy seeds were planted
in main plots on March 02, 2020 maintaining the 45
cm. plant to plant and 90 cm row to row distance. In
early stage of fruiting black spots were seen in some fruits and fruits were dropped. The
farmers sprayed Endofil M-45 fungicides at the rate of 2 gram per liter water but the problem
was not solved. Later, it was diagnosed that aphids infestation which was controlled byspraying an insecticide- King Star- at the rate of 1-2 gram per liter of water. Other crop
management practices were done as per the need.

5.3 Mr. Samar Bahadur Danuwar, Ward no 4, Purano bazar, Panchkhal municipality
Mr. Samar Bahadur has 0.15 ha (3 ropani) agriculture land where seven family members weredependent. He has two cattle for fulfilment of milk requirement in house and manure for crop.
He is from danuwar ethnic group. Danuwar is one of the indigenous communities of Nepal
with relatively poor social and economic status. They are mainly dependent upon agriculture
faming either cultivated own land or by working as agriculture labor. Mr. Samar Bahadur also8was a model leader farmer who also applied the IPM method ofvegetables cultivation in the farm. The cropping pattern he had
followed was:
Paddy – Potato – Other vegetables (bitter gourd, Okra)
Maize – cole crop –Maize
Two times MR-X solution was sprayed during growing period innursery bed at the rate of 10 ml. in 5 liter of water. Field was preparedby deep ploughing and proper levelling. During land preparation 6 kg
DAP, 10 kg urea, 3 kg potash and 900 kg compost manure wasincorporated in soil. The seedlings were transplanted on main plot on
March 17, 2020 maintaining the 100 cm. plant to plant and 150 cm.
row to row distances in both plots. Planting was done in evening times. The total area covered
for the experimentation was 380 sq. m. Other crop management practices were done as per theneed.

5.4 Spice crop development center, ward no 4, Tamaghat, Panchkhal municipality
Spice crop development center (SCDC) is a government office under the Agriculture
Development Directorate of ministry of Land management,
Agriculture and Cooperatives of Bagamati Province. It had beenworking in vegetable and paddy seed production and activities
related to spice crops. The SCDC had a well-established farm withqualified manpower for service delivery. The Akbare chilly andpaddy crop were selected for MR-X test at the center. The
experimentation area was small due to late decision and most partof the field was already under the crop plantation. Therefore, only
30 sq. m. land was available for Akbare Chilly trial. For Akbare
chilly, the fertilizers were applied at the rate of 1.5 kg DAP, 1 kg
urea, ½ kg potash and 200 kg compost manure during the land
preparation. The seeds were soaked in 100 times diluted MR-X
solution overnight and seeded in the nursery bed. The healthy
seedlings were transplanted in the main plots on April 29, 2020
maintaining the 45 cm. plant to plant and 60 cm. row to row
distances.
For paddy, the recommended dose of fertilizers was applied during the final land preparation.
The seeds were soaked as per the guideline provided by the JRS. The healthy seedlings weretransplanted in experimentation plot on June 12, 2020 maintaining the 20 x 20 cm plant toplant and roe to row distances. Other crop management practices were done as per the need.
95.5 Anaikot Demo Farm, ward no 2, Anaikot, Panchkhal municipality
Anaikot Demo Farm has been established by LGN as a learning center for neighboring farmers
and other visitor farmers. The farm has a sloppy landscape with east-south facing. The farm issituated in north of and at half an hour drive from the Panchkhal bazaar. It has a facility of farmstay for 14 people. During the stay in farm people can learn about the organic farming,
livestock husbandry, milking the cow, tunnel farming andobserve improve fodder grass nursery, and so on. The farm
has four cattle for milk and manure production for the farm.
The MR-X solution experimentation was done in the farm inmaize crop. A total of 520 sq. m. land was well preparedafter two-three ploughs. Well-prepared compost manure wasapplied at the rate of 2600 kg during the final land
preparation. Maize seeds were soaked overnight in 100
time's diluted MR-X solution and were direct seeded in main
experimentation plots on May 02, 2020. After weeding, 14 kg
urea was top dressed in both the plots. Other crop management activities were done as andwhen needed.
5.6 Ms. Sarawoti Adhikari, ward no 4, Tamaghat, Panchkhal municipality
Saraswoti Adhikari was a model leader farmer who had completed 22-week-long IPM training
organized by Love Green Nepal. She owned 0.71 ha (14 ropani) cultivated land and four
livestock for the milk production and the manure. Her nine-member families were dependent inagriculture. She started using organic manures, cattle urine and botanical pesticides in the farminstead of chemical pesticides after had received the IPM training. She had also used therecommended dose of fertilizers. The cropping pattern followed was as given below:
Paddy – Potato – Maize/vegetables
Maize – paddy – potato/other vegetables
MR-X solution was tested in paddy crop in her farm. The paddy seeds were overnight soakedin the MR-X solution and sown in well-prepared nursery bed. The total experiment area was
1016 sq. m. and divided into two plotsof 508 sq. m each. The experimentplots were well prepared by two to
three times ploughing by tractor. The
fertilizers DAP 5 kg, potash 2 kg andzinc 1 kg were applied during the land
preparation. After first weeding, 4 kg
urea was top dressed in both the plots.
10

The crop field was irrigated as and when needed. The healthy seedlings were transplanted in
the main plots on July 15, 2020 maintaining the 20 cm. plant to plant and 20 cm row to row
distance. No disease and pest problem was observed during the early crop growth period inboth the plots. However, at the time of crop harvest, black rust was observed in both the plots.
The black rust infestation was more in MR-X not used plot than MR-X used plot. Other crop
management activities were carried out as and when needed.

6. Comparison parameters
The parameters used to compare the crop growth and development and yield of the plots ‘with
MR-X solution’ and ‘without MR-X solution’ are as follows:a) Soil pH test before and after the experimentation.
b) Organic matter, Electrical conductivity (EC), Phosphoric acid test in MR-X used & notused plotsc) Nitrate content test (in some crops).
d) Vegetative growth of crop
i.Plant heightii.Stem diameteriii.Dispersione) Crop yieldf) Taste of the productg) Farmers’ reaction

7. Results and Discussion
7.1 MR-X experimentation in Hot Pepper
Date of seed treatment: February 16, 2020 evening to next day
morning (12 hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 5 ml per half liter water for 30 grams of
hot pepper seeds.

Nursery establishment date:February 17, 2020.

Seedlings transplanted in experiment plot

:April 4, 2020 in evening time.

The MR-X treated seeds and non-treated seeds were separately sown in well prepared nursery
bed. 10 ml. MR-X solutions diluted in 5 liter water was sprayed in the nursery bed during
growth of the seedlings.
The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the experiment plot was as follows:
11

Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

April 22, 2020

30 ml. diluted in 15 liter water

May 06, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

May 19, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

June 01, 2020

60 ml. diluted in 30 liter water

June 15, 2020

90 ml. diluted in 35 liter water

The MR-X solution was sprayed in two weeks interval. The whole plant was sprayed by thesolution prepared according to the guidelines. The observation on the plant growth anddevelopment was recorded periodically. The data recorded on MR-X used and not used plots islisted in below table:
Table: The data recorded of various parameters between the MR-X use and MR-X not use
experiment plots.
P l a n t Dispers S t e m N o o f
h e i g h t i o n diamete branche
Observatio (cm.)(cm.)
r (cm.) sn dateUse Not U s No U s No U s Not
use e
t
e
t
e
use
us
us
e
e

No of No of F r u i t Fruit
flowers/ fruits / l e n g t h diamete
plant
plant
(cm.)
r (cm.)
U s Not U s No Use Not U s
e
use e
t
use e
us
e

No
t
us
e

A p r i l 2 2 , 25
2020

26

10

8

0.4 0.3 6

5

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

M a y 0 6 , 4 2 . 3 5 . 15
2020
4
8

10

1.0 0.6 10

8

4

3

5

4

0

0

0

0

M a y 1 9 , 5 5 . 5 1 . 17
2020
6
4

15

1.2 1.0 15

13

6

5

16

14

0

0

0

0

J u n e 0 1 , 6 8 . 5 8 . 56
2020
4
4

51

1.3 1.0 20

18

10

8

24

18

0

0

0

0

J u n e 1 5 , 6 8 . 5 8 . 60
2020
4
4

52

1.3 1.0 27

18

4

3

19

17

2 1 . 1 6 . 2.5 1.5
0
2

12

13

The above table and graph show that the different parameters in different stages of plant
growth and development were better in MR-X used plots than MR-X not-used ones. The plantheight, dispersion, stems diameter and pods per plant increased with each spray of MR-X
solution. In early stage of plant growth MR-X effectiveness in plant height was 70 percent(after first spray of MR-X) and it was declined by 30 percent in second spray, 23 percent inthird spray and stagnation at fourth spray. The colors of plants of MR-X used plots weregreener and shinier as compared to MR-X not used plots. Early dryness was found in the MRX not sprayed plants than MR-X sprayed plants indicating that MR-X solution helped for theplant to remain green for long time.
7.1.1 Root measurement
Plant roots are the important to anchoring a plant in place. More importantly roots are thelifeline of a plant: storing food; taking up air, water and nutrients from soil; and moving up into
the leaves where they interact with the sunlight. If healthy roots are well spread in soil thenthey can absorb more nutrients and water from the soil. Unhealthy roots are not able to absorb
required amount of water and nutrients from the soil as a result plant becomes weak and resultsin poor production. MR-X solution has a property of stimulating the root growth of plants. In
MR-X experimentation root measurement was taken in hot pepper at the end of harvestingstage of crop. The results obtained are given below.
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used

Spreading of roots (cm.)

11

6Length of roots(cm.)

98

No of soil organisms (worm)

10

Pod length (cm.)

21

16.2

Pod diameter (cm.)

2.5

1.5

Yield (508 sq. m.) kg

1797

1419

14

Remarks

The above table and graph clearly show that plants from MR-X used have good root growththan not-usedplants. The dispersion of roots was wider in
MR-X used than not-used plots: it means plants from MR-X
used plots get more nutrients and water from soils for their
growth and development. The MR-X sprayed plants produced
the root dispersion of 11 cm whereas 6 cm root dispersion was
obtained from the MR-X non sprayed plants. Likewise, thelength of roots was found in MR-X sprayed plants and MR-X
not sprayed plants 9 cm and 8 cm respectively. The soilorganisms like earthworms were found at the root zone in MRX used plot but in MR-X not used plot it was not found. It means MR-X solution helped in
activities of soil organisms in the crop field. Regarding the yield of the crop, the pod length anddiameter was found 21 cm and 2.5 cm respectively in MR-X sprayed plants whereas 16.2 cm
pod length and 1.5 cm pod diameter was found in MR-X non spray plants. The experiment also
showed the contribution of MR-X solution in the increased crop yield. In experimentation theyield of hot pepper was 17.97 quintal in 508 sq. m. of MR-X sprayed plots plot whereas 14.19
quintal was obtained from the MR-X non sprayed plot of the same size with the yield
difference of 3.78 quintal.
Besides, the following differences between MR-X used and not used plot were observed during
the experimentation.
MR-X solution used plot

MR-X solution not used plot

1. The brightness of plants was observed.

1. The plants were less bright.
15

2. Taste of the hot pepper was tastier than before.

2. Less tasty and less hot.

3. The greenery of plants remained for longer period. 3. The plants became dry relatively
early.

7.1.2 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report is presented in
the table below.
(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

EC (ms/cm)

OM %Hot pepper

5.3

Low

Low

Low

n/a

n/a

Organic ma<er%

EC (mS/cm)(b) After experimentation:
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

M R - X MR-X not M R - X MR-X not M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X not
used
used
used
used
used
not used used
used
Hot pepper

5.03

5.25

270.02 310.73

Crop

MR-X used

MR-X not used

Hot pepper

1.05%

1.25%

3.15

3.09

0.11

0.09

(c) Nitrate test:

Soil test results in before and after experimentation showed some positive results obtained
from the use of the MR-X solution. The organic matter in the soil was at medium level in boththe plots. Organic matter content was 3.15 percent in MR-X used plot and it was 3.09 percent
recorded in MR-X not used plot. This indicates that used of MR-X might have played a role inincreasing the organic matter in soils. The growth of the roots was found better in MR-X used
plot than the MR-X not used plot. Inference can be drawn that good growth and developmentof roots of the plants in MR-X solution used plot might have contributed to better uptake ofsoil nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potash with the resultant better yield of hot pepperin MR-X used plot than not used one. Low pH and phosphorus level was found in the soil of
MR-X not used plot.
16

Nitrate is the form of inorganic nitrogen absorbed by the roots of plants in agricultural
ecosystems. Plants containing more nitrates are bad for the human and livestock consumption.
The nitrate test results showed that fruits of hot pepper with MR-X used contained lesspercentage of nitrates (1.05%) than MR-X not used ones. An inference can be drawn that MRX used product are safer in comparison to MR-X not used ones.
7.2 MR-X experimentation in Bitter Gourd
Date of seed treatment: February 12, 2020 evening to next day
morning (12 hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 5 ml. MR-X solution diluted in one literwater (70 gram).

Nursery establishment date

: February 13, 2020.

MR-X spray in nursery: March 9, 2020 10 ml MR-X solution
diluted in 5 liter water was sprayed in
growing seedlings of bitter gourd.

Seedlings transplanted in experiment plot

: March 17, 2020 in evening time.

The MR-X treated seeds and non-treated seeds were separately sown in polybag. The first
germination of MR-X treated seeds was observed on March 01, 2020 which was two days
earlier than the non-treated seeds.
The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the experiment plot was as follows:
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

April 15, 2020

90 ml. diluted in 45 liter water

April 27, 2020

100 ml. diluted in 50 liter water

May 13, 2020

120 ml. diluted in 60 liter water

May 27, 2020

150 ml. diluted in 70 liter water

June 12, 2020

170 ml. diluted in 85 liter water

June 29, 2020

170 ml. diluted in 85 liter water

July 14, 2020

180 ml. diluted in 90 liter water

During the experiment period above mention schedule was accordingly followed for the sprayof MR-X solution in bottle gourd.
17

Table: The data recorded of various parameters between the MR-X used and MR-X not used
experiment plots.
P l a n t Dispersion S t e m
h e i g h t (cm.)
diameteObservatio (cm.)
r (cm.)
n dateUse N o t Use N o t U s N o
use
use
e
t
u s
e

No of No of No of F r u i t Fruit
branchflower / f r u i t / l e n g t h diamete
plant
plant
(cm.)
r (cm.)
U s Not U s Not U s N o Use
e
use e
use e
t
u s
e

Not U s N o
use e
t
u s
e

A p r i l 1 5 , 26.4
2020

22.8

4.2

3.1

0.5 0.4 1

1

0

0

0

0

-

-

-

-

A p r i l 2 7 , 33.0
2020

30.3

6.0

4.7

0.7 0.6 2

2

15

11

0

0

-

-

-

-

M a y 1 3 , 44.3
2020

39.3

38.9

17.7

2.5 1.6 7

5

28

20

6

4

-

-

-

-

M a y 2 7 , 95.6
2020

87.8

1 2 2 . 1 0 3 . 3.8 2,6 12
2
8

11

32

24

14

11

-

-

-

-

J u n e 1 2 , 2 0 7 . 1 8 6 . 1 2 8 . 1 1 1 . 6.8 6.2 14
2020
8
2
8
6

15

39

31

16

15

-

-

J u n e 2 9 , 2 1 4 . 1 9 4 . 1 3 5 . 1 1 7 . 8.0 7.2 19
2020
2
2
4
2

18

46

36

26

21

3 1 . 2 5 . 4.3 3.8
0018The above table and graph showthat the plant performed better indifferent stages of MR-X usedthan MR-X not-used plots. The
height of plant, dispersion, stem
diameter and pods per plant were
found increased more with every
spray of MR-X solution ascompared to the plants from nosolution used plots. In early stageof plant growth the MR-X
effectiveness in plant height was
25 percent (after first spray ofMR-X) and it was slightly
increased by 34 percent in second
spray but it was tremendously increased the plant height by 116% percent in fourth spray.
After that it was decreased by 28 percent and 12 percent in fifth and sixth spray of MR-X
solution respectively. In MR-X not used plot, the growth of plant height increased slowly ascompared to MR-X used plot.
If we compare the stem diameter and number of fruits per plant, the MR-X used plants gave
better results than MR-X not used plants. According to the above graph every time the data wasrecorded the diameter and fruits per plant had increased more in MR-X used plants than not
used ones. During the experiment period it was found that leaves were greener in MR-X
sprayed plants than non-sprayed plants. Also, the fruit development started one day earlier in
MR-X sprayed plot than non-sprayed ones. The more leaves were pale yellow in MR-X not
19

used plot due to water stagnation in experiment field but a very few leaves were pale yellow in
MR-X used plot. It could be due to the inherent property of the MR-X solution to help makeplant tolerant to unfavorable conditions.
7.2.1 Root measurement
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used Remarks

Spreadingof roots (cm.)

148

70

Length of roots(cm.)

97

76

No of secondary roots18

14

No of soil animals (worms) 2

1

Pod Length (cm)31

25

Pod Diameter (Cm)

4.3

3.8

Yield (508 sq. m.) Quintal

12.97

9.63

Roots are the lifeline of plants; taking up water, air and nutrientsfrom the soil and moving them up into the leaves, where they caninteract with sunlight to produce sugars, flavors and energy forplants. Therefore, healthy roots make a plant strong and can
produce good yield.
The results show that plants from MR-X used have resulted good20

root growth than not-used plants. The spreading of plant roots was wider in MR-X used plot
than not-usedplot; it means MR-X used plants obtained more nutrients, air and water from thesoil for their growth and development. According to the above table and graph the MR-X
sprayed plants had the root spreading of 148 cm whereas 70 cm root spreading was found in
the MR-X not sprayed plants. Likewise, the length of roots was found in MR-X sprayed plants
and MR-X not sprayed plants were 97 cm and 76 cm respectively. The dipper roots in soil
make plant stronger. The number of secondary roots was found 18 in MR-X used plots and it
was 14 numbers in MR-X not used plot. The earthworms were found at the root zone in MR-X
used plot (2 earthworms) but in MR-X not used plot only one worm was found. It means MRX solution might have helped in making soil organisms more activate crop field. Pod lengthand diameter were found 31 cm and 4.3 cm respectively in MR-X sprayed plants whereas 25
cm pod length and 3.8 cm pod diameter were found in MR-X non sprayed plants. It means
MR-X solution could have contributed in the increase of crop yield. In experimentation theyield of bitter gourd was 12.97 quintal per 508 sq. m. in MR-X sprayed plots and 9.63 quintal
per 508 sq. m. in the MR-X non sprayed plots with the yield difference of 3.34 quintal.
During the experimentation period the following differences between MR-X used and not used
plot were observed.
MR-X solution used plot

MR-X solution not used plot

1. The color of the leaves was dark green.

1. Color of the leaves was just green.

2. Growth and development of plants was 2. It was somewhat delayed development.
fast.
3. Pest infestation was negligible.

3. Pest infestation was noticeable.

4. Early fruit development.

4. Delayed fruit development.

5. Plants remained alive for relatively long 5. Plants generally short-lived and could not
period.
stand for long period.

7.2.2 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report is presented in
the tables given below.
(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

EC (ms/cm)

OM %Bi8er gourd

4.9

Low

Low

Low

n/a

n/a

(b) After experimentation:
21

Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

Organic ma<er%

EC (mS/cm)

M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X notused
not use used
not use used
not use useduse
Bi8er gourd

5.31

5.07

113.16

107.64

3.21

3.03

0.15

0.14

(c) Nitrate test:
Crop

MR-X use

MR-X not use

Bi8er gourd

2.10%

2.05%

The soil test results of before and after experimentation shows that there was an improvement
in soil pH after use of the MR-X solution. The pH level was increased from 4.9 to 5.31. The
organic matter in the soil was 3.21 percent in MR-X used plot and 3.03 percent in MR-X not
used plot. The MR-X solution might have helped in maintaining the organic matter in soil. The
phosphorus content in both the plots was high. The reason could be the fact that since the boththe soils were acidic with low pH level, it might have hindered to convert phosphorus into theavailable form for the uptake by the plants.
The nitrate test results in bitter gourd showed that MR-X used crop had a nitrate level of 2.10
% whereas MR-X not used crop had a nitrate level of 2.05%. There is not much difference inobserved level in both the plots. Further, verification may be needed to reach any conclusion
about the nitrate level in MR-X used crop.
7.3 MR-X experiment in Lady Finger (Okra)
Date of seed treatment: March 01, 2020 evening to next day
morning (12 hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 5 ml. MR-X solution diluted in one literwater (400 gram)

Treated and non-treated seeds were seededin experiment plot

: March 02, 2020 in evening time.

The first germination was on March 10, 2020 which was one day earlier in MR-X treated seeds
than non-treated seeds.
The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the experiment plot was as follows.
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

April 16, 2020

30 ml. diluted in 15 liter water

April 30, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water
22

May 14, 2020

60 ml. diluted in 30 liter water

May 29, 2020

70 ml. diluted in 35 liter water

June 12, 2020

80 ml. diluted in 40 liter water

June 29, 2020

80 ml. diluted in 40 liter water

July 15, 2020

90 ml. diluted in 45 liter water

July 30, 2020

100 ml. diluted in 50 liter water

The date of MR-X solution sprayed in experimentation plot (MR-X used plot) is given in theabove table. The data was recorded on the same day or one day before the sprayed of MR-X
solution. The observation on the plants growth and development was recorded periodically.
The data recorded on MR-X used and not used plots is given in the table below.

Table: The data recorded of various parameters between the MR-X used and MR-X not used
experiment plots.
P l a n t Dispersio S t e m
h e i g h t n (cm.)
diameter
Observatio (cm.)(cm.)
n dateUse Not Use Not Use Not
use
use
use

No of N o o f No of P o d F r u i tbranchflower / p o d / l e n g t h diamete
plant
plant
(cm.)
r (cm.)Use

Not U s Not U s N Use Not U s
use e
use e
o t
use e
us
e

No
t
us
e

April 16, 1 9 . 1 5 . 6.0
2020
4
0

4.5

1.7

1.0

1

1

0

0

0

0

-

-

-

-

April 30, 3 3 . 2 7 . 7.6
2020
4
6

7.0

3.5

2.0

3

2

0

0

0

0

-

-

-

-

M a y 1 4 , 3 7 . 3 1 . 1 3 . 1 0 . 5.5
2020
8
2
8
9

4.2

4

4

3

3

1

1

-

-

-

-

M a y 2 8 , 4 3 . 3 7 . 1 9 . 1 7 . 8.9
2020
2
2
8
6

5.1

6

6

9

7

6

4

-

-

-

-

June 15, 62. 57. 29. 19. 12. 11. 7
2020
7
6
6
0
7
5

7

16

12

11

9

-

-

-

-

June 29, 63. 55. 36. 21. 14. 11. 7
2020
4
2
4
2
4
6

7

12

10

9

7

-

-

-

-

July 14, 70. 64. 30. 28. 15. 13. 8
2020
2
6
4
0
4
4

8

12

13

13

9

-

-

-

-

July 29, 85. 73. 34. 31. 18. 13. 9
2020
2
8
2
8
2
4

8

18

17

14

13

19

16

2 . 2 .
5
1

23

The plant height and dispersion of Okra had
increased more in MR-X used plants than in MR-X
n o t
u s e

24

plants in every reading. The plant height was 19.4 cm before first spray and it increased to 33.4
cm at the time of second stage and same trend was observed in remaining sprays. In MR-X not
used plots the plant height was first recorded of 15 cm and it was increased to 27.6 cm atsecond time record and same trends was observed in remaining data recoded. Similarly, stem
diameter performance was better in MR-X used than MR-X not used plants. The firstmeasurement in MR-X used plants the stem diameter was 1.7 cm and 1.0 cm in MR-X not usedplants. In second, third and fourth measurements the difference was 1.5 cm, 1.3 cm and 3.8 cm
respectively. Similarly, the difference was observed in fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth
measurement of stem diameter in MR-X used and not used plants was1.2 cm, 2.8 cm, 2 cm and4.8 cm respectively.
The brightness of pod was more in MR-X used plants than the MR-X not used plants.
Regarding disease and pest infestation, aphids and yellow mosaic leaves were present more in
MR-X not used plots than in MR-X used plots. The taste of okra from MR-X used plots was
also found to be tastier than from MR-X not used plots.
7.3.1 Root measurement
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used Remarks

Spreading cm.

32

21

Length of roots (cm.)

169

No of secondary roots50

33

No of soil animals (earthworms)

5

1

Pod length (cm)19

16

Pod Diameter (cm)

2.5

2.1

Yield (508 sq. m.) quintal

8.66

8.22

25

Okra has a strong taproot which penetrates almost vertically downwards and reaches the depthof 16 inches in general. The above table and graph show thatplants from MR-X used resulted in a better root growth than
MR-X not-used plants. The spreading of plant roots was 32 cm
in MR-X used plot and 21 cm in not-used plot which meansthat MR-X used plants could absorb more water, air andnutrients from soils for their growth and development.
Similarly, 16 cm root length was measured in MR-X sprayplants whereas only 9 cm root length was recorded from MRX not used plants. The more root length in the MR-X usedplants means the plants could uptake water and nutrients from more depth of soil than MR-X
not used plants. The number of secondary roots was recorded as 50 in MR-X used plots and 33
in MR-X not used plots. More number of secondary roots help the plants to become firm andstronger in the field and more uptake of nutrients from the soil.
Soil organisms like earthworm is beneficial because it can enhance soil nutrient cycling
through the rapid incorporation of debris into the soils. At the time of root growth fiveearthworms were found in root zone area of MR-X used plot. In MR-X not used plot only one
earthworm was found. The pod length and diameter were found to be 19 cm and 2.5 cm
respectively in MR-X used plot whereas 16 cm pod length and 2.1 cm pod diameter was foundin MR-X not used plot. The yield of Okra from MR-X used and not used plot was 8.66 quintal
and 8.22 quintal respectively showing better yield of Okra from MR-X used plot.

7.3.2 Soil test results

26

The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report is presented intable the below.

(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

EC (ms/cm)

OM %

Okra

5.5

Low

Medium

Low

n/a

n/a

(b) After experimentation
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

Organic ma<er%

EC (mS/cm)

M R - X MR-X not M R - X MR-X not M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X not
used
used
used
used
used
not used used
used
Okra

5.82

5.82

171.58 188.37

Crop

MR-X used

MR-X not used

Okra

1.12%

2.25%

1.67

1.91

0.07

0.08

(c) Nitrate test:

The soil pH had increased in both the experimental plots after the experimentation showing nodifference in the reading between MR-X used and not used plots. Organic matter in soil wasrecorded as 1.67 % and 1.91% in MR-X used and not used plots respectively which
contradicted with the reading from the experiments in other crops, in which MR-X usedshowed higher organic matter content compared with MR-X not used plots. High phosphorus
level in both the plots could be because of low pH level in both the plots. The nitrate test
results showed that the MR-X not used crop had a nitrate level double (2.25%) of the MR-X
used crop (1.12 %).

7.4 MR-X experiment in Akbare Khursani

Date of seed treatment: March 12, 2020 evening to next day morning(12 hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 5 ml. MR-X solution diluted in ½ liter water.

27

The nursery was established: March 13, 2020

The first germination: March 21, 2020 which was one day earlier
in MR-X treated seeds than not-treated seeds.

MR-X spray in nursery bed: April 4, 2020 @ 10 ml. MR-X solution diluted
in five liters water.

Treated and non-treated seedlings
transplanted in experiment plot

: April 29, 2020 in evening time.

The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the experiment plot was as follows.
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

May 14, 2020

20 ml. diluted in 10 liter water

May28, 2020

20 ml. diluted in 10 liter water

June 14, 2020

30 ml. diluted in 15 liter water

June 28, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

July 12, 2020

50 ml. diluted in 25 liter water

Table: The data recorded of various parameters between the MR-X use and MR-X not use
experiment plots.
P l a n t Dispersio S t e m
h e i g h t n (cm.)
diameter
Observatio (cm.)(cm.)
n dateUse Not Use Not Use Not
d
use d
use d
use
d
d
d

N o o f N o o f N o o f Remarks
branchflower / f r u i t /
plant
plant

M a y 1 4 , 20.2 18.8 4.8
2020

5.1

0.7

0.2

M a y 2 8 , 23.5 20.5 6.1
2020

5.1

1.1

0.6

J u n e 1 4 , 27.0 22.5 7.5
2020

5.9

2.3

2.0

U s Not U s Not U Not A t t h e f r u i t
ed u s e ed u s e s e used d e v e l o p m e n tdddstage continuous
raining affects the
0
0
0
0
0 0
plants as blackrotting disease
which could not
1
1
0
0
0 0
be controlled sothat the yield was
not recorded.
2
2
0
0
0 0

J u n e 2 8 , 30.4 25.5 10.3 9.1
2020

3.5

2.6

4

3

7

5

0

0

J u l y 1 2 , 37.0 29.4 14.5 13.4 5.6
2020

5.1

7

5

13

10

7

5

28

The plant height of Akbare Khursani
increased with each spray of MR-X solution
with 3.3 cm, 3.5 cm, 3.4 cm and 6.6 cm infirst, second, third and fourth MR-X spray
respectively. Similarly, dispersion of plants infirst spray was 0.3 cm less in MR-X usedplants than MR-X not used plants. But fromthe second, third and fourth spray it increased
more in MR-X used plants. The stem
diameter performance between MR-X usedand not used plants was also recorded. The
results showed as 0.5 cm stem diameter was increased in MR-X used plants than not usedplants in first and second sprays. After third, fourth and fifth spray it was 0.3 cm, 0.9 cm and0.5 cm respectively.
29

During the crop growth and development stage some plants were affected by virus in MR-X
not used plot but it was not seen in MR-X used plot. The leaves had more shiny appearance in
MR-X used plants than not used plants. At the early stage of fruit development, the trial plot
was heavily affected by continuous rains. It affected the whole plants with black rot andsmashed the crop. So that yield of the crop was not recorded.
7.4.1 Root measurement
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used

Spreading cm.

73.3

41.1

Length cm.

24

20.5

No of secondary roots

26.0

22.0

No of soil animals

00Remarks

The root measurement was taken at the end of the crop
season. The performance of MR-X used plants was better
than MR-X not used plants. The spreading of the plants wasobserved 73.3 cm and 41.1 cm in MR-X used and not usedplants respectively. About 80 percent more spreading ofplants in MR-X sprayed than non-sprayed plants wereobserved. The root length was 3.5 cm in MR-X used than
MR-X not used plants. Similarly, the secondary roots of theplants were observed during the root measurement. A total of 26 secondary roots were counted
30

in MR-X used plants whereas it was 22 in not used plants. Therefore, effectiveness of MR-X
solution was observed as it resulted in better root growth and spreading of the primary andsecondary roots in soils which results in more uptake of water and nutrients from the soil.
7.4.1 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report was as given in
the table below.
(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

E C ( m s / OM %cm)

Akbare Khursani

4.8

Low

Low

Low

n/a

n/a

Organic ma<er%

EC (mS/cm)(b) After experimentation:
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X notused
n o t used
not used used
not used used
used
used
Akbare Khursani

5.86

6.81

195.73

21.39

2.16

0.25

0.12

0.06

The soil pH of 4.8 was recorded before the experiment of MR-X solution. This process was
repeated after the completion of the experiment and results were near to neutral level pH (6.81)
from MR-X not used plot and slightly acidic (5.86) from MR-X used plot which was rather
unexpected result for MR-X not used plots. Organic matter in the soil was 2.16 % and 0.25%
in MR-X used and not used plots respectively. For further validation of the results the MR-X
experimentation should be repeated in coming seasons.

31

7.5 MR-X experiment in Maize (corn)
Date of seed treatment: May 01, 2020 evening to next day morning(12 hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 5 ml MR-X solution diluted in one literwater.

The nursery was established: March 13, 2020

The first germination: May 08, 2020 which was two days earlier in
MR-X treated seeds than non-treated seeds.

Treated and non-treated maize seeds weresown in experiment plot

: May 02, 2020.

The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the experiment plot was as follows.
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

May 15, 2020

20 ml. diluted in 10 liter water

June 05, 2020

30 ml. diluted in 15 liter water

June 19, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

July 03, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

July 17, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

July 31, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

August 14, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 20 liter water

The MR-X sprayed was done according to above mentioned schedules. The data was recorded
subsequently as per the schedules but sometimes it was delayed due to COVID-19 Pandemic.
Table: The data recorded of various parameters between the MR-X use and MR-X not used
experiment plots.
Plant height Dispersion S t e m No of leaf/ D i a m e t e r o f Length of
(cm.)
(cm.)
d i a m e t e r plant
cob
cob
Observation
(cm.)
date

May 29, 2020

MR-X
Used

MR-X
N o t
used

MR-X
Used

MR-X
N o t
used

MR-X
Used

MR-X
N o t
used

MR-X
Used

MR-X
N o t
used

MR-X
Used

M R - X
Not used

Used

N o t
used

54

42

61

56

7.0

6.0

6

6

0

0

0

0

32

June 05, 2020

74

60

86

74

8.8

7.8

8

7

0

0

0

0

June 22, 2020

199

144

151

131

12.2

9.8

14

11

0

0

0

0

July 16, 2020

266

238

162

145

13.2

10.8

16

12

0

0

0

0

August 28, 2020

272

249

168

158

13.6

11.0

16

11

24.2

22.0

29.6

24.4

According to above tableand graph the plant height
was increased after eachspray of the MR-X

33

solution. The average plant height was 173 cm in MR-X used plants and 146 cm in MR-X not
used plants was recorded. On other hand, average plant dispersion was recorded as 125.6 cm
and 112.8 cm in MR-X used and not used plants respectively. Similarly, the stem diameterrecorded in MR-X used and not used plants was 10.9 cm and 9.1 cm respectively.
The average number of leaves per plant in MR-X used plot was 12 whereas MR-X not used
plot gave only 9 leaves per plant. The observation shows that the MR-X has a potential to givecomparatively higher grain yield of maize than without using MR-X solution.

7.5.1 Root measurement
Parameter

MR-X used

M R - X n o t Remarks
usedSpreading of roots, cm.

50

40

Length of root, cm.

31

23

No of roots/plant

51

30

No of soil animals in root zone(worms)

11

7

Cob length, cm.

35

31

Cob width, cm.

25

20

Average grain/cob

771

638

Length of cob after threshing, cm

21

18

Width of cob after threshing, cm.

11

11

Yield (508 sq. m.) quintal

4.74

3.61

34

All crops grown from seeds initiate root establishment withthe emergence of the radicle from each germinating seed.
Water and nutrients uptake is sensitive to root growth and to
the radius of the absorbing roots. The above data shows thatspreading of roots in MR-X used plants was 50 cm whereas
MR-X not used plants was 40 cm. The root length wasrecorded as 31 cm and 23 cm in MR-X used and not usedplants respectively. Similarly, the number of roots per plant
was noted as 51 and 30 respectively. The number of earthworms found in root area was 11 and
7 in MR-X used plot and not used plot respectively.
The cob length was recorded as 35 cm. in MR-X used plant followed by 31 cm in MR-X not
used plant. The average of 771 grains per cob was recorded as in MR-X used plant whereas it
was 638 in MR-X not used plant. A better maize yield was recorded with MR-X solution as
474 kg of maize was obtained from MR-X used plot of 508 sq. m. A substantially low maize
yield of 361 kg per was observed from the same size of MR-X not used plots with the yield
difference of 113 kg.
During the experimentation period the following differences between MR-X used and not used
plot were observed.
MR-X solution used plot

MR-X solution not used plot

1. More number of oily leaves.

1. Oily in leaves was less as comparedwith MR-X used plot.

2. Dark green with shiny appearance.

2. Less green and shiny appearance.

3. Uniformity in the plant stands.

3.
35

Tall and dwarf of the plants, lessuniform plant stand4. Brace roots developed earlier.

4.

Brace roots developed later.

5. Broad leaf

5.

Narrow leaf

6. Looked some difference as other nearby
6. Looked same as other nearby maize
maize plants when saw from the far plants.
distance.

7.5.2 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report was presented asgiven in the table below.
(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

E C ( m s / OM %
cm)

Maize

4.9

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

(b) After experimentation:
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

Organic ma<er% EC (mS/cm)

M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X not M R - X M R - X MR-X M R - X
used
not used used used
used not used used not used
Maize

6.29

6.66

382.6 448.9
5

1.55

1.55

0.14

0.12

The soil pH was recorded as 4.9 in selected area before conducting the experiment in MR-X
solution. This was repeated after completion of the experiment and results were near to neutrallevel pH (6.29 and 6.66 from MR-X used and MR-X not used plot respectively). After thecompletion of the experiment the soil pH level had improved in both the plots. However,organic matter content in the both the plots remained same as 1.55 percent of OM was found ineach plot. For further clarification of the above results the MR-X experimentation should be
repeated in coming seasons.

36

7.6 MR-X experimentation in Paddy (Rice) conducted in Spice Crop Development Center
Date of seed treatment: June 08, 2020 evening to next day morning (12hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 20 ml MR-X solution diluted in two liter water.

The nursery establishment: June 09, 2020.

The first germination: June 12, 2020 in MR-X treated seed bed which was
one day earlier than non-treated seed bed of paddy.

The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the nursery bed and experiment plot was as per
the table below.
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

Nursery bed
June 15, 2020

30 ml diluted in 3 liter water

June 26, 2020

30 ml diluted in 3 liter water

July 03, 2020

40 ml. diluted in 4 liter water

Main plot
July 11, 2020

150 ml diluted in 10 liter water

September 11, 2020

200 ml diluted in 15 liter water

Table: The data recorded of different parameters between the MR-X used and MR-X not used
experiment plots.
a. Plant height and number of tillers:Plant height (cm.)

No of tiller/plant

MR-X Used

M R - X N o t MR-X Used
used

MR-X Not
used

July 26, 2020

30.2

28.6

2

2

August 09, 2020

49.4

45.8

3

3

August 24, 2020

60.0

56.2

4

4

September 07, 2020

70.8

66.4

6

5

Observation date37

September 22, 2020

87.2

82.8

8

7

October 06, 2020

102.8

98.2

8

7

b. Number of panicles, grains and production:
Description

MR-X Used

MR-X Not used

Average number of panicle/ plant

7

6

Average number of grain per spikelet

200

198

Average number of grains in whole plant

2600

2376

Paddy production (kg/508 sq. m.)

264.1

205.7

38

The above tables and graphs show thatall parameters performed better in
MR-X used plot than MR-X not usedplots. The plant height had increased
with each time of data recording as
30.2 cm, 49.4 cm, 60.0 cm, 70.8 cm,
87.2 cm and 102.8 cm in MR-X used
plot. In MR-X not used plot the heightof plant was recorded as 28.6 cm, 45.8
cm, 56.2 cm, 66.4 cm 82.8 cm and98.2 cm. The plants were taller by 4.6
cm in MR-X used than not used plots.
More tillers were observed in the MR-X used plot than not used. The number of rice grains perplant was recorded to be 2600 in MR-X used which was 224 grains more than MR-X not usedplants. The yield difference was 58.4 kg with MR-X used plots giving higher yield.
7.6.1 Root measurement
Rice (paddy) plant is characterized by having a relatively shallow and compact root system.
The roots anchor the rice plant in the soils and absorb the nutrients. Root development is
promoted by organic manures and phosphate fertilizer. Clayey soils seem to be ideal for thenormal development of the roots. A nodal root develops on the higher nodes and helps the plant
to absorb the food materials from the surrounding water. The growth and yield of rice plant ismuch affected by the physiological function of the roots. MR-X solution enhances the growthof roots in rice cultivation. The experiment of MR-X solution in rice cultivation was conductedat the premises of Spice Crop Development Center, Panchkhal in the year 2020. In experiment39

plots root measurement was done at before harvesting the rice crop. The results found are
mentioned in the table below.
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used Remarks

Spreading of roots cm.

13

10

Length of roots cm.

14

12

The MR-X used plants had longer roots than MR-X not used plants and spreading the of theroots in soil was recorded to be 13 cm in MR-X used plot whereas it was 10 cm in MR-X not
used plots. This shows that MR-X used plants can better uptake water and nutrients from thesoil than MR-X not used plants. Conseqauently, yield of paddy was more in MR-X used plot
(264.1 kg) than not used plot (205.7 kg).
7.6.2 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report was presented in
the table below.
(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

E C ( m s / OM %
cm)

Paddy

5.7

n/a

medium

n/a

0.07

1.61

(b) After experimentation
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

Organic ma<er% EC (mS/cm)

MR-X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X M R - X
used n o t used
not use used
not use used not use
use
Paddy

5.86

5.83

65.97

54.97

2.01

1.54

0.70

0.50

The soil test results show that there was negligible improvement in soil pH but before theexperiment the organic matter in soil was 1.61 percent which was increased to 2.01 percent
after the used of MR-X solution. However, it was slightly decreased in MR-X not used plot
(1.54%).
During the experimentation period the following differences between MR-X used and not used
plot were observed.
40

MR-X solution used plot

MR-X solution not used plot

1. In early stages of the crop greenness 1. In early stage greenness of the plant was lessof the plant was more prominent.
prominent.
2. Shiny dark green leaves.

2. Less shiny green leaves.

3. Growth of the plants looked more 3. Growth of the plants looked less uniform until
uniform until harvesting time.
harvesting time.
4. Having long roots with more number. 4. Having short roots with less number.
5. More spreading of roots in soil.

5. Less spreading of roots in soil.

6. More number of panicle and spikelet. 6. Comparatively less number of panicle andspikelet
7. Paddy yield was relatively high.

7. Paddy yield was relatively low.

7.7 Experimentation conducted in Saraswoti Adhikari’s farm, ward no 4, Tamaghat
Date of seed treatment: June 12, 2020 evening to next day morning (12hours).

Dose of MR-X for seed treatment: 30 ml MR-X solution diluted in three liter water.

The nursery establishment: June 13, 2020.

The first germination: June 16, 2020 in MR-X treated seed bed which
was one day earlier than non-treated seed bed of
paddy.

Paddy seedlings transplanted in trial : July 15, 2020
plot
The schedule of the MR-X solution sprayed in the nursery bed and experiment plot ismentioned the table below.
Date

MR-X doses

Remarks

Nursery bed
June 19, 2020

30 ml diluted in 3 liter water

June 26, 2020

30 ml diluted in 3 liter water

July 03, 2020

30 ml. diluted in 3 liter water

Main plot
41

August 04, 2020

360 ml diluted in 24 liter water

September 11, 2020

720 ml diluted in 48 liter water

Table: The data recorded of different parameters between the MR-X use and MR-X not use
experiment plots.
c. Plant height and number of tillers:Plant height (cm.)

Number of tillers/plant

Observation date

MR-X Used

M R - X N o t MR-X Used
used

MR-X Not
used

July 28, 2020

37.6

33.2

3

3

August 11, 2020

62.4

54.4

14

11

August 25, 2020

78.0

65.8

15

14

September 08, 2020

90.0

77.6

15

14

September 21, 2020

93.2

80.6

15

14

October 05, 2020

95.8

83.8

15

14

42

d. Number of panicles, grains and production:
Description

MR-X Used

MR-X Not used

Average number of panicles/plant

14

12

Average number of grains per spikelet

221

193

Average number of grains in whole plant

2999

2195

Paddy production (kg/508 sq. m.)

609

524

43

The data presented in the above table shows that effectivenessof MR-X solution in plant height was observed in vegetative
growth stage to early reproductive phase (40 days aftersowing) of paddy. The difference of plant height was 24.8 cm,
15.6 cm and 12.0 cm in first three readings whereas thedifference was further narrowed down in successive readings(3.2 cm and 2.6 cm in fourth and sixth reading). The
difference in plant height in MR-X not used plot in first three
reading was 21.2 cm, 11.4 cm and 11.8 cm which was lessthan difference in MR-X used plot. The number of tillers perplant was 15 and 14 tillers respectively. The average numberof panicle development in rice plant was recorded as 14 in
MR-X used plot and 12 in not used plot. The yield of the
paddy was 609 kg and 524 kg in each of 508 sq. m. area in
MR-X used and not used trials respectively. The increased
yield in MR-X used plot could be attributed to MR-X solution.

7.7.1 Root measurement
Parameter

MR-X used

MR-X not used

Spreading of roots cm.

9.0

7.5

Length of roots cm.

6.5

5.5

Remarks

The long roots were observed in MR-X used plants than MRX not used plants. The spreading of the roots was 9.0 cm in
MR-X used plot followed by 7.5 cm in MR-X not used plot.
The yield of paddy was recorded from the experiment was
609 kg per 508 sq. m. area in MR-X used plot whereas 524
kg per 508 sq. m. obtained from MR-X not used plot with thedifference of 85 kg.

7.7.2 Soil test results
The soil test was done before and after the MR-X experiment. The test report is presented in
the table below.

44(a) Before experimentation
Crop

pH

N

P

K

E C ( m s / OM %
cm)

Paddy

5.1

n/a

high

n/a

0.17

2.04

(b) After experimentation
Crop

pH

P2O5 (kg/ha)

Organic ma<er% EC (mS/cm)

MR-X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X M R - X MR-X M R - X
used n o t used
n o t used
n o t used not used
used
used
used
Paddy

5.60

5.59

111.78 109.95

2.48

2.34

1.90

1.50

To know the exact nutrients found in the farm soils, time to time soil samples testing isimportant. Crops are usually grown on wide range of soils types. The different fertilizers
requirement for the crops depends upon the soil health and stages of the crop. Application ofmany nutrients can result to imbalance in soil and eventually causing the environment pollution
and causing the contamination of water and creatures beneath. In MR-X experiment, the soil
samples were tested two times. One is before conducting the experiment and next was after
completion of the experiment. Therefore, the differences or changes in soil health can bemeasured with the effectiveness of MR-X solution.
The above tables show that there were some differences in pH and organic matter in the soil.
The pH was 5.1 before the experiment which was increased to 5.60 in MR-X used plot and5.59 in not used plots. Similarly, organic matter was increased from 2.04 to 2.48 in MR-X used
plot and 2.34 percent in not used plot respectively. The effectiveness of the MR-X solution wasnoticed in both the parameters.
The following differences between MR-X used and not used plot were observed during theexperimentation.
MR-X solution used plot

MR-X solution not used plot

1. Dark green color of paddy leaves.

1. Light green color of paddy leaves.

2. Fast vegetative growth.

2. Slow vegetative growth.
45

3. No any diseases and pests in early 3. Some pests like yellow stem borer, worm, leaf
stage of growth was observed.
roller were observed in early stage of growth.
4. Large number of long roots.

4. Having short roots in small number.

5. More spreading of roots in soil.

5. Less spreading of roots in soil.

6. Number of panicle and spikelet more. 6. Number of panicle and spikelet comparatively
less.
7. Relatively high paddy yield.

7. Relatively low paddy yield.

8. Farmer's reaction in MR-X experimentation:
The three experiments were conducted in farmer's field and farmers were actively involved
during the experimentation period. Their collective views regarding the MR-X solution arelisted below.
1. All farmers had positive responses on the MR-X solutions.
2. Farmers were convinced that the MR-X solution enhanced crop growth anddevelopment. They could clearly observe the differences between MR-X used and notused plants.
3. Diseases and pests attacked was very less in MR-X used plot than not used plot.
4. Farmers could feel difference in the taste of the some cooked vegetables from bothplots as given below:
a. Bitter gourd – less bitter in MR-X used plot than not used plot.
b. Hot pepper – sweet hot and tasty from MR-X used and less hot from MR-X not
used.
c. Maize – sweeter than MR-X not used plot.

9. Soil Improvement Experimentation
Soil is a critical part of successful agriculture and is the original source of the nutrients that we
use to grow the crop. The nutrients move from the soil into the plants for their growth anddevelopment. In Panchkhal, there is a domination of small holder farmers. The cropping
intensity is high. Farmers are facing the problems like climate change effects, soil degradationby using chemical fertilizers and pesticides, soil disturbance by frequent tillage, and so on.
Panchkhal soil was considered to be highly fertile for the agricultural production before but
now a day it has become less fertile due to heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides andless use of organic manure in the cultivated land. Considering these problems Love Green46

Nepal has been implementing the Environment Friendly Integrated Sustainable Agriculture
Development Project from November 2017 for five years. Under the project total of 1618 soil
samples have been collected so far from different wards and tested in different time period. The
results are presented in pie graph chart bellow.

The result shows that 14.7 percent samples were pH neutral and it is good for the crop
production. 10.1 percent samples were highly acidic followed by 34 percent and 40.4 percent
as acidic and slightly acidic respectively. Therefore, soil quality improvement in Panchkhal
valley is important in coming days.
Under the MR-X experimentation we have conducted soil improvement experiment at Anaikot
farm, ward no 2, Panchkhal municipality. The experiment was done in 3.3 meter x 3.3 meter(10.89 sq. m.) area. The procedure followed in the experiment was as follows:a. The field was inspected by agriculture technicians for

conducting the experimentation.
b. Finalized the location.
c. Marking the field as per guideline provided by JRS,
Japan. The length and breadth were 3.3 meter and 3.3
meter respectively.
d. Soils were collected from different five locations
within the marking area.
e. Soil samples were mixed together and divided into four partsand half of volume of the soil from opposite side wasdiscarded. Repeated this procedure till the soil weight became
about one kg. The sample was then packed with proper
marking before using MR-X solution. The date of sample
taken was September 23, 2020.
47

f. MR-X solution was spread in selected section: at the rate of 50 ml solution mixed in 5
liter of water and sprinkled on the selected section on September 23, 2020.
g. One week after sprinkling the MR-X solution, same volume of soil sample was again
collected. This was the soil sample after using the MR-X solution. The date of sample
taken was on September 30, 2020.
The soil was sandy clay loam where soil improvement experiment was conducted. The crop
harvested before the experiment was soybean and no chemical fertilizers were applied before
crop grown but organic manure at the rate of 50-60 kg was applied in the soil.
The result of the soil samples tested in the laboratory is presented in the table below.
SN Description

pH

N%

P2O5

K2O

O r g a n i c EC (mS/matter % cm)

1.

Soil sample before MR-X used

6.83

0.06

37.12

469.00 1.19

1.30

2.

Soil sample after MR-X used

6.82

0.05

35.62

455.60 1.05

1.40

The table shows that there was not much difference in most of the parameters about the soil
properties before and after the use of MR-S solution. The pH results shown in the table is not
significantly different between before and after MR-X used. However, the level of N, P2O5,
K2O and organic matter content was slightly higher in the samples taken before the use of MRX solution. This warrants further experimentation in coming days to ascertain the results
obtained.

10. Conclusion
The experimentation was conducted in farmers’ field and in the government farm at Panchkhal
Municipality. The farmers were happy about the MR-X solution and its results on crop
production. They paid high level of attention in the experimentation and followed the
instruction provided by the Love Green Nepal. The coordination with Spice Development
Center, Panchkhal was also good as they also supported in conducting the experiment at thefarm premises. However, experiments conducted were not based on scientific research protocol
and were simple trials. The results obtained need to be validated with proper scientific research
design and analysis in order to reach any scientific conclusions.
The time-to-time shutdown imposed due to COVID-19 affected the visit of the experimentsites, and provides necessary instructions to the farmers and timely data collection and keepingof the record. Here are some points listed below about the experimentation:48

❖ The collected samples were not submitted timely in the laboratory due to shut down
imposed by the government due to COVID-19 pandemic.
❖ Continuous rains during the fruit development stage outbroke the diseases and yieldrecord of the akbare chilly could not be taken.
❖ The soils of Panchkhal municipality are more acidic and low organic matter which may
be affect the crop growth and development, nutrients uptake and movement of soilorganisms.
❖ The focus was on general type of experiment (comparative study of MR-X used and notused) for the effectiveness of the MR-X solution in crop production which was more
related to yield of the crop in farmer's field condition. Other parameters need extra
efforts and time for the data recording, samples collection and regular observation of
the plots, and so on. Due to COVID-19 and other management related difficulties there
might have been some lapses in conducting experiment and taking the records on
various parameters. Therefore, some experiments are needed to judge the efficacy andvalue of the MR-X solution.
❖ At least three years experiment results will be needed as how MR-X solution isbeneficial for the agricultural production in rural farmers.
❖ The learning was that MR-X spray at the time of the plant being attacked by the pest
could make the pest more active and result in more crop damage. Therefore, it isnecessary to observe the crop closely before deciding on the spray of the solution.
As has been advised by the officials from Spice Development Center, Panchkhal it is necessary
to further evaluate or test the MR-X solution following scientific experiment protocols incollaboration with Nepal Agriculture Research Council in different agro-ecological zones of
Nepal. This will enhance the applicability, acceptability and effectiveness of MR-X solution
across different agro-climatic zones of the country.

References:
1. Agriculture diary 2019 and 2020. Published by Department of Agriculture.
2. Hand book of soil sciences: properties and processes, second edition, 2012.
3. Principles of agronomy, Mr. SR Reddy,
4. Report on integrated rural development project, Love Green Nepal, 2017.
5. Organic Farming Vision Construction Support Project Report”; Japan Soil Association,
2015.

49

50