bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Grain Legumes. IV. Pulses in the Genus Phaseolus
Authors: Smartt J.
Published: October 2008

The genus Phaseolus as currently recognized contains four pulses: common bean (P. vulgaris), runner bean (P. coccineus), lima bean (P. lunatus) and tepary bean (P. acutifolius). Although these all have their origins in tropical and sub-tropical latitudes, they have evolved in different ecological zones. The runner bean has evolved at higher altitudes, the common bean at intermediate levels and the lima bean at lower altitudes. The tepary has a specialized desert-annual life-form. The occurrence of day neutral genotypes in all species has permitted their spread into cool and worm temperate zones (the common and runner beans) and the warm temperate zone (lima bean). It is possible therefore to grow one or other Phaseolus species in most areas of the world where cultivation can be practised. The common bean has evolved the widest range of growth forms, seed and pod sizes, pod forms and textures, and seed and pod colors. World-wide an enormous primary gene pool has been produced. The common bean pool is the secondary gene pool for the runner bean and vice versa, since partially fertile interspecific species produce sterile or inviable F1 hybrids so that potential for interspecific gene transfer is limited. Thus no known secondary gene pools exist for Phaseolus species other than P. vulgaris and P. coccineus.
The Role of Fertilizer Management in the Development and Expression of Crop Drought Stress in Cereals under Mediterranean Environmental Conditions
Authors: Keatinge J. D. H. , Neate P. J. H. , Shepherd K. D.
Published: October 2008

The development and influence of crop drought stress was examined in winter-planted small-grain cereals under Mediterranean environmental conditions. In two average or wetter than average years crop drought stress in the grain-filling period was greatly exacerbated by the addition of fertilizer (N and P) and this usually resulted in significantly lower kernel weights. Yet this reduction was not so substantial as to seriously affect crop yields. Total grain yields were largest in treatments receiving fertilizer, due to greater spike numbers and numbers of kernels per spike. But heavy nitrogen applications may promote the risk of a large proportion of small or shrivelled grains in a dry year.
The Importance of Lay-out in Determining Error Variance in Field Experiments
Authors: Roberts E. A.
Published: October 2008

Examples are taken from three biometrical texts, two unpublished experiments and Yates (1937) to illustrate quantitatively how the lay-out of the plots can affect the estimate of error variance in field experiments and how confounding of treatment and positional effects can arise. In two examples in which the plots did not run the whole length or width of the block, the estimates of error were reduced by one half and one quarter respectively by allowing for sub-blocks within blocks or for rows and columns. In split-plot experiments where the main plots were split breadthwise, the sub-plot error was about the same size as the main-plot error or larger whereas it is expected to be at most one third that of the main plots when these are split lengthwise. Serious bias can arise in the estimate of treatment effects due to confounding with positional effects; this is illustrated.
A Design and Methods of Analysis to Monitor Crop Growth Conditions Illustrated with Sorghum Screening Trails for Resistance toStriga
Authors: Gilliver B. , Vasudeva Rao M. J. , Venkateswarlu P.
Published: October 2008

Checker-board field layouts are used to screen sorghum genotypes for resistance toStriga. A systematic check entry is used to monitor crop growth conditions and methods to analyse the results are assessed.
The Balance between Leaf Area and Photosynthetic Activity in Determining Productivity of Fox-tail Millet (Setaria italica) under Rain-fed Conditions
Authors: Sashidhar V. R. , Prasad T. G. , Patil S. J. , Kumar M. Udaya , Sastry K. S. Krishna
Published: October 2008

The relationship of leaf weight ratio (LWR), leaf area ratio (LAR), stomatal frequency and dry matter (DM) production with yield and with photosynthetic efficiency, as reflected by 14CO2 fixation rate, was studied in fox-tail millet (Setaria italica) for three consecutive years. Several genotypes were identified which combined small leaf area and/or low stomatal numbers per plant with productivity under rain-fed conditions equal to that of genotypes with large stomatal numbers. 14CO2 studies in these genotypes showed that the rate of carbon fixation by the leaves was greater, at any canopy position, than in the corresponding large LA/large DM types. Genotypes with consistently small stomatal numbers per plant, associated with good dry matter accumulation and productivity, may also show small transpirational water loss under rain-fed or drought conditions. It is concluded that such genotypes are desirable for better productivity under these conditions.
Density Related Yield Functions for Coconut (Cocos nucifera): an Empirical Estimation Procedure
Authors: De Silva N. T. M. H. , Tisdell C. A.
Published: October 2008

Obtaining yield–density relationships for perennials is difficult. Apart from the long time span involved, problems are also posed by the different types of uncertainty associated with field experimentation. Consequently researchers have explored alternative means. This study uses survey data as an alternative. The data show sufficient variability around the density which is regarded as optimal for Typica variety of coconut (158 palms ha−1) to be of value for estimating its yield–density function. A quadratic function gives a good fit to the data. Results suggest that the yield maximizing density of variety Typica form typica is relatively insensitive to the influence of fertilizer practices adopted by farmers and to variations by agroclimatic sub-regions.
Evaluations of Alternate Cropping Systems for Alfisols of the Indian Semi-arid Tropics
Authors: Reddy M. S. , Willey R. W.
Published: October 2008

A three-year experiment examined the possibility of increasing the cropping intensity of a medium-deep Alfisol (red soil) by using sequential, relay, ratoon or intercropping systems. It was found that a short-season mungbean (Vigna radiata) crop could be taken before the commonly-grown castor crop but that castor yields were reduced by the delayed sowing. If the castor was sown after the harvest of mungbean in a sequential system the profits were less than from a sole castor system. Relay-sowing the castor 20 days before the harvest of mungbean gave 9 $US ha−1 greater profit than sole castor, but this is probably not enough to justify the more intensive double crop system. On the other hand a reasonable yield of horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum) could be produced after an early pearl millet crop, giving a worthwhile extra profit of 21 $US ha−1 compared with sole pearl millet. Ratooning the sorghum gave ratoon yields that averaged only 14% of the first crop, so this system was not considered suitable for these lighter Alfisols.

Intercropping systems of pearl millet/groundnut, sorghum/pigeonpea and groundnut/pigeonpea gave average yield increases of 24, 47 and 46%, respectively, compared with both component crops grown separately. Compared with growing only the higher value sole crop, increases in profits were 16, 82 and 120 $US ha−1 for the same three systems, respectively. It is concluded that intercropping systems provide the best opportunity for increasing cropping intensity on medium-deep Alfisols.
Effects of Melon (Colocynthis vulgaris) Population Density on Intercropped Maize (Zea mays) and Melon
Authors: Wahua T. A. T.
Published: October 2008

In a study of the optimum population for melon when intercropped with maize, melon at 5000, 10 000, 15 000 and 20 000 plants ha−1 was intercropped with maize at 40 000 plants ha−1. Melon biomass and seed yield increased linearly with population density in mixed and pure stands while maize yield components were virtually unaffected. Intercropping reduced melon seed yields, mainly because of a reduction in number of fruits per plant, but did not affect seed size. For good weed and erosion control and increased total yields, maize can be intercropped with up to 20 000 plants ha−1 of melon.
Hydraulic Press Measurements of Leaf Water Potential in Groundnuts
Authors: Rajendrudu G. , Singh M. , Williams J. H.
Published: October 2008

The hydraulic press was compared with the dew point psychrometer and the pressure chamber methods for measuring leaf water potential (Ψ) in groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea L.). For measurements on the same leaf, regression analysis revealed that the slopes did not differ significantly from unity. An analysis of functional relations between measurements made by the press and the dew point psychrometer or the press and the pressure chamber showed that the error variance of the press was similar to those of the two other methods. Therefore, we conclude that for groundnuts the performance of the press, the dew point psychrometer and the pressure chamber are similar.
Fifty Years ofExperimental AgricultureII. The Maintenance of Soil Fertility in Tropical Africa: A Review
Authors: Padwick G. Watts
Published: October 2008

Shifting agriculture is an ancient basis for maintaining soil fertility but pressures of population have caused it to give place in most countries to rotations and bare fallows which, in turn, have had to be reduced or modified. Research on various measures to shorten the duration of fallows and increase their effectiveness is reviewed. These measures include the use of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers, green manuring, mulches and the growing of legumes and grasses, which are discussed in relation to their effects on the soil and on crop yields. The increasing use of the factorially-designed experiment is recognized as a major contributor to this research.
Crop-Weed Competition Studies in Mung Beans (Vigna radiata)
Authors: Yadav S. K. , Bhan V. M. , Singh S. P.
Published: October 2008

Field experiments were done during the rainy seasons of 1980 and 1981 at Hissar, India; they studied the effects of time of weed removal on the yield of mung beans. Removing weeds at 10, 20 or 30 days after sowing led to significantly larger yields than that of the weedy check. Maximum seed yields in booth years were obtained when weeds were removed 20 days after sowing
Maize/Weed Competition Experiments: Implications for Tropical Small-Farm Weed Control Research
Authors: Vernon R. , Parker J. M. H.
Published: October 2008

Two sets of experiments examined the effects of weeds on maize yields using weeding methods typical of small farms in Zambia where oxen are used for cultivation. Maize yield losses of 30% due to weeds were evident with common weeding practices. A critical period of competition, during which the crop should be kept clean, was demonstrated from 10 to 30 days after emergence. This is a period of peak labour demand and the prospect of using chemical weed control to ease the situation is considered. The value of weed competition data, given its variability between sites, is discussed.
Utilization of Natural Hybrids in the Improvement of Groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: Nigam S. N. , Rao V. Ramanatha , Gibbons R. W.
Published: October 2008

Groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) are generally considered to be self-pollinated, but natural hybrids due to outcrossing have been observed in cv. Robut 33-1. Selections in segregating generations of these natural hybrids identified stable lines with large yield potentials in more than one environment. The role of natural hybrids in generating useful additonal variability is discussed.
Preparing Papers for Scientific Journals
Authors: Hudson J. P.
Published: October 2008

Many of the papers submitted to this Journal fall far short of the standard of presentation that editors are entitled to expect. This tends to sour the all-important relation between editor and author, making unnecessary work for the former and perhaps even prejudicing acceptance of the latter's paper. The author, typist, editor and copy-editor have specific roles to play in preparing copy for the compositor and this article explains those roles, in the hope that the explanation may help authors to present their papers in the correct form.
Time of Planting, Rainfall and Soil Moisture Effects on Cowpea in Sierra Leone
Authors: Kamara C. S. , Godfrey-Sam-Aggrey W.
Published: October 2008

An experiment was conducted during the minor season in Sierra Leone to determine the optimum planting date for a photo-insensitive cowpea cultivar and study the relations between total rainfall and soil moisture available at different growth stages. Cowpeas planted in early September produced the tallest plants and higher grain yields than from other planting dates, since they benefited from 90% of the season's rainfall and made use of stored soil moisture. Average weekly rainfall or soil moisture in the top 15 cm of soil, recorded from planting to 50% flowering, can be used to predict cowpea grain yield.
Effects of Ethephon on Anthesis and ‘Fruit Collapse’ Disease in Pineapple
Authors: Lim W. H. , Lowings P. H.
Published: October 2008

Ethephon (ethrel) sprayed once on to pineapple inflorescences at the onset of flowering, at rates of 400, 800 and 1200 ppm, suppressed anthesis, with the highest suppression from the latter concentration. Suppression was associated with failure of flowers to open; where flowers did open they were usually short, shrivelled and devoid of nectar. One application was sufficient to affect anthesis for the following 16 days. Ethephon-treated plots had a significantly lower incidence of ‘fruit collapse’ (a disease caused by Erwinia chrysanthemi entering via the open flowers). Highest control (2·3% incidence) was achieved with ethephon at 1200 ppm compared with 7·0% in the control (P < 0·01). A highly significant correlation was established between disease incidence and the mean number of open flowers.
Zinc in Flooded Rice on Clay Soils in Lake Chad Basin, Nigeria
Authors: Beavington F. , Varley J. A.
Published: October 2008

Low levels of zinc are reported in flooded rice grown on alkaline clay soils in the Lake Chad basin, north-east Nigeria. Zinc was added at 0, 5, 10 and 20 kg/ha to sample plots. For the untreated plots, the mean levels of zinc in young rice leaf and ‘available’ zinc in the supporting soil, using the alkaline extractant method of Trierweiler and Lindsay (1969), were 18·2 and 0·33 ppm respectively; corresponding mean levels for plots with 20 kg/ha added zinc were 36·5 and 1·54 ppm. There is a correlation between the two variables of r=+0·61 (P<0·01). Levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and calcium in the rice leaf are also reported.
Effects of Variety and Spacing on Growth, Development and Dry Matter Distribution in Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) at Two Locations in Nigeria
Authors: Yayock J. Y.
Published: October 2008

An investigation for 2 years at Kano and 1 year at Samaru evaluated the effects of plant density on vegetative growth, development and dry matter production and distribution of five varieties of groundnut. Growth and branching of individual plants were reduced at high populations but more dry matter was produced per unit area. Dense plants, particularly Spanish 205, developed a larger leaf area earlier in the season and were presumably able to make better use of light. Varieties F439.4 and 439.2 suffered the least reduction in the number of vegetative branches but the extra branches contributed few useful reproductive nodes.
Partitioning of Dry Matter and Nutrients in Oil Palm Seedlings Grown in Polybags
Authors: Lucas E. O. , Ataga D. O. , Thomas G. O.
Published: October 2008

Monthly partitioning of dry matter (DM) and nutrient contents of polybag oil palm nursery seedlings, planted at three spacings, showed that leaves and petioles accounted for about half of the DM up to 11 months. There was no spacing effect on the nutrient contents of seedlings, K being always higher than other nutrients followed by N, Ca, Mg and P in that order. Most of the nutrients were in the leaves and petioles, with a dramatic increase in the amount of nutrient taken up by the seedlings in November. Fertilizer rates and frequencies were deduced for an oil palm nursery based on the nutrient contents of seedlings.
Response of Rice Varieties to Seasons in Taiwan
Authors: Chang W. L. , Yang S. C.
Published: October 2008

The adaptability of rice varieties to crop seasons in Taiwan was evaluated for 106 varieties. Average grain yield was higher in the first than second crop seasons. Indica varieties yielded better than Japonicas, particularly in the second crop season, when temperatures are higher. In both the Indica and Japonica groups, varieties developed in Taiwan outyielded those from overseas. Japonica varieties from Japan were lowest yielders in both seasons. Some IRRI varieties were outstanding in the first, while several Ponlais and Taiwan Indicas appeared promising in the second crop seasons.
A Laboratory Technique to Screen Seedling Emergence of Sorghum and Pearl Millet at High Soil Temperature
Authors: Soman P. , Peacock J. M.
Published: October 2008

Apparatus was built to screen sorghum and pearl millet for seedling emergence through a hot soil surface. Seeds were sown in soil in long clay pots arranged in a steel water tank so that the top 7 cm of the pots was above the water level. The soil in the pots was heated with infra-red lamps fitted to a frame above the tank. By adjusting the height of the frame the temperature of the soil could be changed. The system allows emerging plumules to be subjected to high soil temperatures (up to 50°C) but without water stress. Both crops exhibited genotypic differences in emergence.
Development of a Laboratory Screening Technique, Based on Embryo Protein Synthesis, For the Assessment of High-Temperature Susceptibility During Germination ofSorghum bicolor
Authors: Ougham H. J. , Stoddart J. L.
Published: October 2008

The capacity of sorghum lines to germinate at high soil temperatures (above 40°C) is clearly related to the temperature sensitivity of embryo protein synthesis. The development and optimization of a simple laboratory technique based on this correlation for the rapid large-scale screening of sorghum lines is described. Embryo-containing half seeds are incubated in the presence of14C-labelled amino acids at different temperatures and the resulting radio-labelled proteins extracted and bound to nitrocellulose discs for counting. The extent to which incorporation of14C-label into proteins is inhibited by elevated temperatures can be used to predict the likely temperature sensitivity of a given line during germination.
Examination of the Staple and Effective Land Equivalent Ratios
Authors: Riley Janet
Published: October 2008

Two extensions to the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) concept, the Effective LER and the Staple LER, are evaluated for an intercrop of two species. The use of different standardizing sole-crop yields in the Effective LER equation is emphasized for the formation of different comparisons between intercrop and sole-crop yields. The Staple LER for different standardizing sole-crop yields is introduced. The equivalence of the Staple and Effective LERs under certain conditions is shown and illustrated.
Water Relations of Winter Wheat: the Root System, Petiolar Resistance and Development of a Root Abstraction Equation
Authors: McGowan M. , Tzimas E.
Published: October 2008

The vertical distribution of water potentials within the leaf canopy, along the stem and within the soil profile of a winter wheat crop was analysed and it is concluded the failure by previous workers to recognize the significance of petiolar resistance has probably resulted in over-estimates of the resistance of the soil to water uptake by root systems of field crops.

From an analysis of the water relations of several winter wheat crops an equation is developed to describe the extraction of soil water reserves by crop root systems, based upon values of soil water potential, root xylem potential and ‘effective’ resistance to water uptake which can be obtained from field experiments. The equation provides an empirical basis to specify the minimum desirable root system for efficient capture of soil water reserves, to analyse the effects of differing root distributions and thus to help identify situations where it would be profitable to modify rooting either by tillage or by plant breeding.
Influence of Intercropping on the Yield and Food Value of Rainfed Sunflower and Companion Legumes
Authors: Narwal S. S. , Malik D. S.
Published: October 2008

Under rainfed conditions in north west India, intercropping with soyabean, peanut, greengram and clusterbean reduced sunflower yields by 25–50%. The number of pods per plant and grain yield of the leguminous intercrops were also reduced. The maximum LER (1.05) was obtained from the sunflower–greengram mixture. Intercropping increased the protein percentage of the sunflower but decreased that of the companion legumes. It had no effect on percentage oil content of sunflower.
Growth and Water Relations of Groundnuts (Arachis hypogaea) in Two Contrasting Years in the Irrigated Gezira
Authors: Ishag H. M. , Fadl Osman A. , Adam H. S. , Osman A. K.
Published: October 2008

A field study was conducted on vertisols to determine the effect of three watering regimes and two plant densities on growth and yield of groundnuts. Total water requirements ranged from 486 to 597 mm depending on treatments. Three quarters of the water depletion was from the upper 20–30 cm. Plants in the sparse population were more sensitive to water stress so that the watering interval could be lengthened in the dense population without seriously reducing yield.
Growth and Developmental Stages of Alaska Peas
Authors: Meicenheimer R. D. , Muehlbauer F. J.
Published: October 2008

Growth and developmental stages of Alaska peas, from planting to dry seed maturity, were examined and described. Node counts were determined by designating the cotyledonary node as 0 and counting successive nodes up the plant to the highest visible one with unexpanded stipules. Five additional nodes are already determined in the shoot apex beyond the highest one with unexpanded stipules, indicating that damage to the shoot apex would result in losses of flowers and fruits that would have developed later if damage had not occurred.
Environmental Factors Affecting the Yield of Tea (Camellia sinensis). I. Effects of Air Temperature
Authors: Tanton T. W.
Published: October 2008

The response of tea shoots to temperature was studied in the field and in controlled environments. Shoot extension stopped below about 12.5°C. Shoots of mature tea took 491 day degrees above the base temperature of 12.8°C to grow to a harvestable size of 15 cm.
Environmental Factors Affecting the Yield of Tea (Camellia sinensis). II. Effects of Soil Temperature, Day Length, and Dry Air
Authors: Tanton T. W.
Published: October 2008

Temperature is the major environmental variable affecting the yield of tea, but within the framework of a temperature model shoot extension is severely depressed when daily maximum vapour pressure deficits rise above 2.3 kPa. Day length does not affect shoot extension when the nights are cool (10°C), but growth rate is depressed by short days (11 h) when nights are warm (20°C). Soil temperatures between 18–25°C do not affect shoot extension.
Liming Needs of Sweet Potato in Malaysian Acid Peat
Authors: Chew W. Y. , Joseph K. T. , Ramli K. , Majid A. B. A.
Published: October 2008

In two field experiments, sweet potato showed symptoms of lime deficiency, and consequently produced extremely low DM, at the natural pH of local peat (3.5–3.7). Liming to increase pH remarkably increased tuber and vine dry matter to pH 5.5 and harvest index to pH 3.8, but higher pH values decreased dry matter and harvest index. Tuber and vine yields generally decreased with continuous monocropping, probably because of increasing infestation with weevils (Cylas formicarius) and other pests, and depletion of available nutrients.
Nitrogen Fertilization of Guinea and Napier Grass (Panicum maximum and Pennisetum purpureum) in Malaysian Oligotrophic Peat
Authors: Chew W. Y. , Ramli K. , Majid A. B. A.
Published: October 2008

Two field experiments studied the nitrogen fertilizer requirements of guinea and napier grass on peat. Plants in the control plots, though optimally limed and fertilized with other nutrients, absorbed only 1.7 and 2.4% of total peat N in a year and N fertilization improved DM yield, with an optimum at 900 kg/ha/yr. Further positive response was not observed, probably because of a reduced ratio of N to other nutrients. Optimum N uptake, and N concentration in the DM, were achieved at 600 kg/ha/yr N but N recovery decreased linearly with increasing fertilizer N at the rate of about 2–4% per 100 kg/ha/yr N.
Stylosanthes guyanensis Standing Hay as a Source of Dry Season Protein for Cattle in Malawi
Authors: Lamboll David
Published: October 2008

Three cultivars of Stylosanthes guyanensis, under two management regimes, were assessed for yield, quality, palatability and persistence under grazing. During the dry season progressive leaf abscission resulted in unpalatable bare stem, but both leafy stem and fallen leaf remained palatable. Between May and September there was a decline in crude protein (from 16 to 11%), phosphorus (0.22 to 0.18%) and potassium (2.3 to 1.7%), but not in digestibility (average 53%). Partial rather than total accumulation of wet season growth ensured less trampling damage, hence better persistence. Cultivar ranking for persistence and leaf yield was Schofield, Cook, Endeavour, although Cook was initially the most productive.
Effects of Age on the Elemental Nutrients of Celosia Cultivars
Authors: Omueti Olusola
Published: October 2008

Studies on the effects of age on the elemental nutrients contained in Celosia argentea cultivars showed that calcium, phosphorus and potassium decreased with age, the highest content of those elements occurring in the leaves between 5 and 7 weeks after sowing. Other elements, notably manganese and magnesium, increased up to 15 weeks after sowing. An anthocyanin-pigmented cultivar contained more iron, sodium and copper than green cultivars. Breeding potentials of the cultivars in terms of elemental nutrients are discussed, and harvesting the leaves of all cultivars 5 to 9 weeks after sowing is recommended.
Effects of Planting Density on Leaf Area and Productivity of Two Maize Cultivars in Nigeria
Authors: Remison S. U. , Lucas E. O.
Published: October 2008

Two maize cvs, FARZ 23 and FARZ 25, were grown at three densities (37,000, 53,000 and 80,000 plants/ha) in 1979 and 1980. Leaf area index (LAI) increased with increase in plant population and was at a maximum at mid-silk. Grain yield was highest at 53,000 plants/ha. There was no relation between LAI and grain yield but there was a positive correlation between LAI and total dry matter yield.
Statistical Assessment of Different Ways of Calculating Land Equivalent Ratios (LER)
Authors: Oyejola B. A. , Mead R.
Published: October 2008

The use in analysis of variance of six different ways of calculating the Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) was assessed. Criteria used are (1) normality of the residuals of LER values after fitting block and treatment effects, (2) precision of comparisons arising from the analysis of variance, and (3) possible bias in the means. These were examined in detail for data from one experiment and consistency of the results was investigated for seven other sets of data. Separate standardization in each block had no advantages over using the same standardization in all blocks. The use of many different divisors can lead to problems in the statistical analysis of LERs.
Yield Potential and Stratified Growth Analysis of an Indeterminate Climbing Pole Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris) in Mexico
Authors: Fanjul L. , Kohashi-Shibata J. , Hernandez-Xolocotzi E.
Published: October 2008

The yield potential of a highly productive non-commercial Type IV bean cultivar was determined under optimum field conditions, grown in monoculture at 1 plant/m2on trellises 3 m high. Canopy growth was analysed by dividing the stand into 25 cm horizontal strata. The main components of yield were number of inflorescences and number of pods per stratum. Daily yield for the growing period was 4.9 g dry weight/m2. Although a high yield per plant was recorded (823 g/plant) drop of young pods and seed abortion were the major factors reducing the potential yield.
Effects of Water Supply during Floral Initiation and Differentiation on Female Flower Production by Robusta Bananas
Authors: Holder G. D. , Gumbs F. A.
Published: October 2008

A continuous non-limiting soil water supply, or a non-limiting supply from 120 to 180 days after planting, significantly increased (P = 0.01) female flower production of banana cv Robusta compared with continuous soil water stress. Relieving stress after 120 days produced a significantly higher (P = 0.05) average number of female flowers per inflorescence than when adequate water was supplied throughout. Female flower production is positively correlated with the average growth rates at floral initiation and early floral differentiation and with the final pseudostem girth.
Water Requirements of Cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum) Sown on Different Dates in a Monsoon Climate
Authors: Taha M. A. , Malik M. N. A. , Chaudhry F. I. , Makhdum M. I.
Published: October 2008

The consumptive use of water by cotton (G. hirsutumL.) variety 149F, sown at three dates, was calculated using PenmanEt× crop factor method. The earlier the sowing date the more water evapotranspired, mainly due to differences in the length of the growing season and the amount by which it coincided with the monsoonal depression of potential evapotranspiration. An example is given of calculating the irrigation requirements of a mid-June sown cotton, accounting for average rainfall, showing that the water requirements of cotton during the early stages may be adequately met by the establishment irrigation and rains during July. Examples are cited to show that a charged profile at the beginning of the season may sustain good growth and produce satisfactory yield.
Analysing Daily Rainfall Measurements to Give Agronomically Useful Results. II. A Modelling Approach
Authors: Stern R. D. , Dennett M. D. , Dale I. C.
Published: October 2008

A probabilistic model of daily rainfall can be used to derive results of potential value to agriculture. A simple example shows how this model works, but more realistic models are also fitted, using standard statistical computer packages, and examples of the results are presented graphically. The modelling approach is compared and contrasted with direct methods of analysing daily rainfall.
A Data-Capture System for Agricultural Research Based on a Microcomputer
Authors: McNicol J. W. , Ng S. C. M. , Kidger R.
Published: October 2008

The integration of a microcomputer-based data-capture and data-processing system into an existing mainframe computing environment in a crop research institute is described. The system includes hand-held data terminals and electronic balances. Some computing terms are explained in an appendix.
Improved Cropping Systems for the Deep Vertisols of the Indian Semi-arid Tropics
Authors: Reddy M. S. , Willey R. W.
Published: October 2008

A series of experiments was designed to evaluate a wide range of possible cropping systems for deep Vertisols of the Indian semi-arid tropics. The introduction of a rainy season maize crop, compared with traditional fallowing, had little effect on the yields of post-rainy season crops of sorghum, chickpea and pigeonpea. Introducing a rainy season sorghum crop caused severe yield reductions of post-rainy season crops in one year but only slight reductions in two subsequent years. Intercrop systems of maize/pigeonpea or sorghum/pigeonpea, and a three-crop system of maize/pigeonpea/chickpea, appeared very promising. Gross returns were usually much higher for the improved systems that utilized both the rainy and post-rainy seasons, though differences in net returns were not quite so great because of the extra costs of growing the additional rainy season crops.
Effects of Cultivar and Location on Seed Protein in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum)
Authors: Dahiya B. S. , Kapoor A. C. , Solanki I. S. , Waldia R. S.
Published: October 2008

Significant differences were found between 20 chickpea cultivars and four locations in respect of the concentration of protein in the seeds. Cultivar x location interactions were also significant. The average protein concentration among cultivars varied from 18.5 to 23.2% and among locations from 18.3 to 22.7%. Correlations between seed protein concentration and seed yield and seed size were very small. Protein concentration was influenced by available nitrogen in the soil.
Effect of Planting Date on Flowering Rate and Capsule Yield of Papaver bracteatum
Authors: Levy A. , Palevitch D.
Published: October 2008

Papaver bracteatum Lindl., a potential source for codeine production, is a perennial species which is known to flower from the second year of growth. Through selection and early planting date, a high flowering rate (96%) was achieved during the first growing season. The flowering response and yield of capsules were very sensitive to planting date and seedling type. Delaying planting markedly decreased both flowering rate and yield of capsules in the first year. Direct sowing was more advantageous than transplanting. A yield of 36 g/m2 of dry de-seeded capsules was obtained during the first growing season by direct sowing in late summer.
Biochemical Components and Other Characteristics of Maturing Pods of Vegetable Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata)
Authors: Omueti Olusola , Ojomo O. A. , Ogunyanwo O. , Olafare S.
Published: October 2008

Pods of vegetable cowpea Vigna unguiculata Walp. cv. Dinner were harvested at various developmental stages and their biochemical components and other characteristics analysed in two years. Pod length, percentage dry matter and starch, fresh and dry weights and total yield of sugar and starch per unit area increased with age. The percentage total yield of sugars was greatest in pods aged between 11 and 13 days. Vitamin C, total acidity, crude fibre and crude protein percentage decreased with age. Content of minerals except iron also decreased with age of pods. Magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, manganese and copper contents were greater in 1977 than in 1979 but iron and calcium contents were smaller. The vegetable cowpea pods were a rich source of calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron. Pods harvested between 7 and 10 days after flowering were crisply tasty and high in nutrients and therefore nutritionally the most acceptable for consumption.
Weed Competition, Yield and Tuber Size of Potato as Affected by Herbicides Under Sudanese Conditions
Authors: Mohamed A. I. , Nour M. O. M.
Published: October 2008

The effects on the potato crop of the herbicides metribuzin, linuron and metobromuron, singly and in combination with each other and with hand weeding, were investigated and compared with cropped and uncropped weedy controls. Weed competition was determined by measuring weed dry weight. When the three herbicides were applied singly metribuzin gave the lowest weed dry weight, while the combination of metribuzin, metobromuron and hand weeding gave the lowest weed dry weight per unit area of all treatments in both seasons. However, the best potato yield was obtained from the combination of metribuzin and hand weeding. Metobromuron consistently reduced yield through reduction of tuber size irrespective of its effect on weed competition. Metribuzin was the best herbicide for the control of broad leaved weeds and many grasses.
Reaction of Genotypes of Rice (Oryza sativa) to Iron Chlorosis in a Calcareous Soil
Authors: Singh B. P. , Sinha M. K. , Singh R. A. , Singh B. N.
Published: October 2008

Nine rice genotypes were classed as tolerant, moderately tolerant, susceptible and highly susceptible, depending on their growth retardation and the intensity of lime-induced iron chlorosis. All except genotypes IET 7972 and IET 7973 showed varying degreees of chlorosis and corresponding decreases in shoot dry matter production. Chlorosis was negatively correlated with the orthophenanthroline reactive Fe2+ iron content of the leaves, the concentration of which accounted for 82% of the variability in chlorosis. However, total iron concentration in the leaves and the Fe/Mn, Fe/Cu and K/Fe ratios were not significantly correlated with dry matter accumulation in the plants.
Farming Systems Research: Clarification of Terms and Concepts
Authors: Sands Deborah Merrill
Published: October 2008

Farming Systems Research (FSR) has emerged as a major theme in international agricultural research in the past decade. However, despite widespread use of the term, its meaning and the types of research objectives, approaches, activities and methods to which it applies remain ambiguous. The lack of precision in concepts and terms will discredit FSR and jeopardize donor support. This paper seeks to clarify and define the major types of research approaches and activities encompassed by the general term FSR. Six types of research are distinguished and a new, more precise terminology is proposed.
Development of Reproductive Structures in Grain Legumes: The Growth, Cell Structure and Maturation of Pods and Seeds
Authors: Davies Sarah , Williams Watkin
Published: October 2008

The study was carried out in an unheated glasshouse under natural conditions of daylength and temperature. Rates of pod and seed growth and development, and of desiccation at maturity, are reported in single genotypes of Lupinus albus, Lupinus mutabilis, Vicia faba, Pisum sativum and Lathyrus latifolius. The histology of tissue layers in pods are also described. The culti-var of Pisum sativum completed dry weight accumulation in pods in 20 days from anthesis; the equivalent time in Lupinus albus (Kievskij mutant) was 60–70 days and in genotypes of Lupinus mutabilis and Vicia faba about 50 days. The heavier pods and seeds of the L. albus and V. faba cultivars were due to a prolonged rapid growth phase: rates of weight accumulation in seeds during the rapid growth phase were similar for all cultivars. The histology of the pod wall varied between species but the rate of dehydration of pods was not a factor in determining date of maturity. The results are discussed in the light of reservations based on known intra-specific variation in crop species.
The Effect of Strain of Rhizobium and of Temperature on Nodulation and Early Growth of Trifolium semipilosum
Authors: Roughley R. J. , Date R. A.
Published: October 2008

The effect of strain of Rhizobium and of temperature on nodule formation and early growth of Trifolium semipilosum was studied in controlled environment cabinets. Time required for nodules to form was affected by strain of Rhizobium and by root temperature, acting independently. Strains CB788 and CB2116 required only 9.5 to 10.0 days, averaging over temperatures, whereas strains CB782 and CB526 required 12.8 to 13.0 days. Nodulation was earliest at whole-plant temperatures of 25/20°C and 30/25°C day/night (average 9.5 days); 15 days were required at 20/15°C. Nodule number was independent of bacterial strain but dependent on temperature; nodules were fewest in the lowest and most in the highest temperature regime. Plant yield was determined by interactions between temperature and strain and was generally greatest at whole plant temperatures of 25/20°C.

When nodulated plants growing at 25°C were transferred to a range of root temperatures, plants grew best at 20° and 25°C and with strains CB782 and CB2116.
Effects of Root Temperature on the Growth and Nitrogen Fixation of Trifolium semipilosum and Trifolium repens
Authors: Date R. A. , Roughley R. J.
Published: October 2008

Changes in plant dry weight and nitrogen content of Trifolium semipilosum cv. Safari and T. repens cv. Grasslands Huia were monitored when the root systems of effectively nodulated 28-day-old plants were exposed to a range of constant and diurnal temperatures for 21 days. Nitrogen fixation was more sensitive to high root temperatures than was dry weight accumulation, and T. semipilosum was relatively more tolerant of high root temperatures than T. repens for both dry weight and nitrogen content. The optimum temperatures for dry weight yield and nitrogen fixation (≡nitrogen content) were similar (21–23°C) for both species.

Our data suggest that growth and nitrogen fixation in T. semipilosum are more tolerant of short-term exposure to increase in root temperature than in T. repens. In addition, both species accumulated more dry matter and fixed more nitrogen when night temperatures were reduced from either 30 or 35°C to 25°C. The increase was greater with T. semipilosum and may be a major factor in its adaptation to the humid subtropics and cooler (elevated) tropics.
Crop Growth, Development and Yield in Semi-arid Conditions in Botswana. I. The Effects of Population Density and Row Spacing on Sorghum Bicolor
Authors: Rees D. J.
Published: October 2008

A series of population density and row spacing trials were carried out with sorghum in conditions of increasingly severe water stress from 1980 to 1984. In conditions of reasonable water availability, increasing density resulted in increased leaf area indices, dry weight production and grain yields. In conditions of severely limiting water availability, increasing density resulted in developmental delays, density-dependent mortality and reduced plant dry weights, with little increase in dry weight production per hectare. In these conditions grain yields were reduced by increasing density. The proportion of dry weight allocated to grain declined with increasing density and decreasing plant size, a consequence of the requirement for a minimum plant size to support grain production. When plant size was reduced below a critical range, disproportionately large reductions in grain yield resulted.

Optimum densities for grain production varied from below 10 000 plants ha−1 in dry conditions to over 120 000 plants ha−1 in moist conditions. Medium density treatments produced the largest grain yields on a long term basis, but the low density treatment showed a reduced risk of crop failure and greater yield stability.
Crop Growth, Development and Yield in Semi-arid Conditions in Botswana. II. The Effects of Intercropping Sorghum Bicolor with Vigna Unguiculata
Authors: Rees D. J.
Published: October 2008

Plant growth, development and yield were monitored in sorghum/cowpea intercropping trials in Botswana during the drought seasons of 1982/3 and 1983/4. The cowpea proved to be more competitive than sorghum in these arid conditions, resulting in substantial increases in sorghum mortality and developmental delay, and substantial decreases in sorghum leaf area indices, dry weight production and grain yield. Intercropping in standard rows at medium plant densities resulted in Land Equivalent Ratios considerably less than 1.0, in contrast to earlier trials in Botswana in higher rainfall years which demonstrated intercropping advantages. Low density, wide row intercropping resulted in some small intercropping advantages, suggesting that this treatment may have potential in Botswana's variable climatic conditions.
Soyabeans as Green Manure in a Maize Intercropping System
Authors: Pandey R. K. , Pendleton J. W.
Published: October 2008

Two experiments were conducted over a two year period at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) in the Philippines to evaluate the effect of a soyabean green manure intercrop on the grain yield of maize. Three rows of soyabeans were interplanted at 50 cm spacing between maize rows 1.5 m apart. Forty two days after planting the two outside soyabean rows were ploughed into the maize rows in a traditional ‘hilling up’ operation. At the zero and lower nitrogen rates, the soyabean green manure resulted in significantly larger maize yields than when maize was grown without green manure, providing the equivalent of 28 kg N ha−1 on the zero nitrogen plots. A response to green manure was also seen at 25 and 50 kg N ha−1. Allowing the central soyabean row to grow to maturity provided additional yield and protein.
Some General Principles of Crop Rotation Experiments
Authors: Preece D. A.
Published: October 2008

This review paper deals with some of the general statistical principles of crop rotation experiments. The basic terminology of the subject is defined. Attention is paid to the fundamental design principle that each phase of a rotation should each year be present in an experiment involving that rotation. The inclusion of ‘auxiliary’ treatments - usually fertilizer treatments - is discussed. Consideration is given to matters influencing the choice of size and shape of plots. The statistician's role in planning a rotation experiment is portrayed as onerous. Emphasis is put on the importance of care and good practice in the management of a long-term agricultural experiment. Complications arising in the statistical analysis of data from a rotation trial are sketched.
Grain Yields of Maize and the Nitrogen Contribution Following Stylosanthes Pasture in the Nigerian Subhumid Zone
Authors: Saleem M. A. Mohamed , Otsyina R. M.
Published: October 2008

Maize grain yields were significantly higher following one to three years of Stylosanthes than after natural fallow or repeated cropping. This demonstrates an important benefit of the forage legume in addition to its value as a ruminant feed supplement. The implications for the development of traditional agro-pastoral production systems are discussed.
A Computer-based Technique for Rapidly Screening Intercropping Designs
Authors: Vandermeer John
Published: October 2008

A computer technique for predicting the yields of the component crops in intercropping systems is described. Predictions using this procedure showed reasonable agreement with results obtained in an experiment using tomatoes and dry beans. Reasons for the discrepancies observed and limitations to the applications of the technique are discussed.
Differences in the Growth and Development of Chickpea Seedling Roots (Cicer arietinum)
Authors: Vincent C. , Gregory P. J.
Published: October 2008

Differences in the growth and development of five genotypes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) were studied until the three branch stage (18 or 21 days after sowing). Seedlings were grown in nutrient solution in clear Perspex cells immersed in temperature controlled water baths. Daily removal and photographing allowed serial measurements of the rate of root extension to be made. An accurate, detailed description of the rooting pattern was obtained by sectioning along the primary axis after harvest. Significant differences between the genotypes in root and shoot growth were recorded. The Syrian local landrace, ILC 1929, and the Ascochyta blight resistant genotype, ILC 428, had faster rates of extentions of the primary root axis and of lateral root development than the other genotypes. The possible significance of these results to subsequent growth and yield in Mediterranean environments is discussed.
Sesame Agronomy in South-east Tanzania. II. Intercropping with Sorghum
Authors: Taylor B. R.
Published: October 2008

Field trials are described in which sesame varieties maturing in 125 days at 2 m high, were grown in alternate rows with sorghum maturing in 175 days at 4 m. Compared to sowing both crops together, the yield of sesame sown 10, 14 and 28 days after sorghum fell by 53, 68 and 100%, respectively, but sorghum yield was not consistently affected. Improved sesame varieties, despite being shorter and less branched, performed better than the local variety, and nitrogen fertilizer applied to one or both components of the mixture did not appear to favour one crop at the expense of the other.