bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tip Withering Bug, Anoplocnemis phasiana (Fab.), Halts Grape Shoots: Friend or Foe, Arrival Time Explains
Authors: Jayanthi P D Kamala , Prakash G S
Published: August 2023

Pruning is a regular practice followed in grapevine, Vitis vinefera L., to keep the vine manageable and productive. However, immediately after pruning, the plants put out a new flush of leaves which attract several leaf-feeding insects, leading to defoliation and crinkling. Incidence of tip withering bug, Anoplocnemis phasiana (Fab.), usually coinciding with the period of halting practice, results in die-back of shoot tip and prevents extension of the shoot, thus halting shoot growth. Intricacies involved in incidence of this coreid bug on grapevine are discussed here.
Efficacy of Fungicides for Control of White Mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Lib.) De Bary in Lima Bean
Authors: Pandey Ashutosh , Mathew Amita J , Kamle Madhu , Mishra Rupesh Kumar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: August 2023

White mold of lima bean (Phaseolous lunatus) caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a major disease in India. Isolates of the pathogen from different region of Uttar Pradesh were assayed both in vitro and in the greenhouse (in vivo) for their sensitivity to eight commercially available fungicides, viz., dithiocarbamic acid, carbendazim, ziram, phenylthiourea, carboxin + dithiocarbamic acid, difenoconazole, hydrogen sulphide, and mancozeb. Phenylthiourea and difenoconazole were found to be most effective and these inhibited radial growth of the test organism a level of to 71.5% and 70.5%, respectively. These two fungicides were also found as most promising in controlling the disease under greenhouse conditions, reducing disease severity to 0.14% and 0.22%, respectively compared to the control where it was 18.9%.
Isotope-Aided Research in Fruit and Vegetable Crops
Authors: Kotur S C
Published: August 2023

In the realm of newly-emerging horticultural enterprises, some of the tracer- or isotope-related applications are highlighted here. These include root activity studies on important fruit crops using soil injection of carrier-free 32P, factors affecting spatial temporal root activity distribution of fruit crops, appropriate time and method of application to achieve maximum use efficiency in fruit and vegetable crops using 15N- and 32P-labelled fertilizers. A model for studying nutrient efficient cropping sequences and crop combinations in vegetable crops was also developed. Other uses of radiation techniques in plant nutrition are: mobilization of P from mother plant to sucker in 'Robusta' banana, contribution of exogenous fertilizer source to phosphorus availability in citrus, internal dilution technique for comparing sources not amenable to isotope labelling, determination of tree volume in fruit crops using isotope dilution technique, detection of unorthodox movement of nutrients upon direct feeding of nutrients to de-navelled banana bunch, monitoring internal dynamics of water in spongy-tissue affected 'Alphonso' mango fruits, investigations on source-sink relationship in mango and some vegetable crops, identification of high water use efficient types using ∇18O values in onion, etc. Scope of using tracer techniques in horticultural research is highlighted.
Effect of Paclobutrazol Application on Nutrient Dynamics, Vigour and Fruit Yield in 'Alphonso' Mango (Mangifera indica L.)
Authors: Kotur S C
Published: August 2023

Application of Paclobutrazol to 22 year-old 'Alphonso' mango trees significantly retarded plant height, plant spread and tree volume. Number of flushes and vigour of emerging new flush also decreased significantly besides production of fewer leaves, reduced leaf area, twig length and dry matter content. Fruit yield increased significantly in trees receiving Paclobutrazol treatment, compared to 'control' trees in all four years of study. This increase was distinctly higher during the on-years 2005 and 2007 by 133% and 77%, respectively, over 'control' due to more profuse flowering and fruit-set. Differences in mineral composition of various tree parts were significant except for N and P content. Paclobutrazol application caused significant increase in Ca, Mg and Mn content in the leaf. Substantial reduction observed in dry matter content and reduced leaf area accompanied by greater removal of nutrients by increased fruit production under Paclobutrazol, application may weaken the tree significantly. The trees would then need proper and adequate nutrient management vis-à-vis untreated trees, to achieve sustainable productivity.
Studies on Combining Ability for Yield and Quality Traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Bhushan Bharat , Sidhu A S , Dhatt A S , Kumar Ajay
Published: August 2023

The experimental material in brinjal (eggplant) comprised 19 parents (15 lines + 4 testers), 60 F1 crosses and two standard checks (BH-1 and BH-2). This was grown in Randomized Block Design, with three replications. Lines vs. testers showed significance for all characters except plant height, plant spread, number of primary branches, dry matter, total sugars and total phenol. Analysis for parents vs. hybrids showed significance for all the characters except average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, plant spread and number of primary branches. Analysis of Variance for combining ability revealed mean squares due to lines and testers were significant for all the characters except plant height, plant spread, number of primary branches, total sugars, total phenol and content of anthocyanins. The ratio of variance due to specific combining ability and general combining ability (σ2SCA: σ2GCA) was greater than unity, indicating non-additive genetic control for all traits except plant spread and total phenols. Among the females, Punjab Barsati, PBR-91-1, RCMBL-1-1, BSR-11; and among the males, BB-93-C and U-8-61-3 were best general combiners for yield and yield components. Punjab Barsati was the best combiner for days to 50% flowering, days to first fruit harvest, number of fruits per plant and number of primary branches. The cross JBR-3-16 × PB-64 manifested best SCA effects for days to 50% flowering; PBR-91-1JBSR-98-2 for average fruit weight; BSR-11 × PB-64 for fruit length; BSR-11× U-8-61-3 for fruit girth, and the cross HABL-1 × JBSR-98-2 for yield per plant and per hectare.
Qualitative Changes during Storage of Different Ginger-Based Spice Sauces
Authors: Jayashree E , Zachariah T John , Evangelin F P P , Bhai R Susheela
Published: August 2023

Ready-to-eat sauces have become a trend in all kinds of meals. Five ginger-based sauces viz., ginger, ginger-black pepper, ginger-nutmeg, ginger-kokum and ginger-nutmeg-kokum were prepared as per standard procedures. Physical, biochemical, microbiological and rheological properties of the sauces were recorded at regular intervals for 135 days. There was no significant variation in physical properties (total soluble solids) during storage but colour value varied significantly. Variation in chemical parameters like pH, content of moisture, proteins, carbohydrates and total sugars was non-significant, but variation in titratable acidity and reducing sugars was significant. Storage period did not affect total plate count, consistency index and flow behavior index of the sauces, which remained constant during the entire storage period. Sensory score of the sauces showed that acceptability was high for ginger sauce, followed by ginger-black pepper and ginger-nutmeg sauce.
Packaging Technology for Export of Jasmine (Jasminum sambac Ait.) Flowers
Authors: Jawaharlal M , Thamaraiselvi S P , Ganga M
Published: August 2023

A study was conducted to standardize packaging technology for export of jasmine flowers. Experiments were laid out in FCRD in three replications, with 12 chemical treatments, and packing with unit packing boxes and thermocol boxes under gel-ice cold condition. Effects of various chemical treatments and their interaction with packaging were studied and observations were recorded on visual quality (freshness index, flower-opening index, colour retention index and fragrance score) of flowers and physiological parameters associated with post harvest quality of flowers. Export suitability of the package was also studied and Cost:Benefit ratio (CBR) worked out. Chemical treatment of flowers with 4% boric acid, packing in aluminum-foil lined boxes and further packaging in thermocol boxes under gel-ice cold condition was found to be significantly superior to Control, and recorded a shelf life of 42.88h. This package also recorded maximum freshness index (70 to 90%), minimum flower-opening index (10.5 to 50%) and maximum colour retention index (77.77 to 88.88%) of flowers. CBR was 1:2.5.
Variability and Association Studies in Tomato Germplasm under High-Temperature Arid Region
Authors: Khan Hanif , Samadia D K
Published: August 2023

Genetic variability and correlation studies were carried out for 12 traits in 23 genotypes of tomato grown during spring-summer of 2009 under hot, arid agro-climatic conditions. Genetic variability, heritability and expected genetic advance revealed significant differences for all the traits studied. PCV and GCV were high for fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, plant height and fruit yield per plant. High heritability with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed for yield per plant (93.2%) as also for average fruit weight (92.8%), number of fruits per plant (73.4%) and plant height (50.1%) indicating the role of additive gene effects and for effectiveness of selecting for these traits. Correlation studies revealed that fruit yield had significant positive correlation with fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter and number of fruits per plant, both at the genotypic and phenotypic levels, indicating mutual association of these traits. Negative correlation of days to flowering and days to first harvest on yield per plant suggested indirect selection for earliness for yield improvement.
Effect of Age and Size of Hypocotyl Explant on in vitro Shoot Regeneration in Eggplant
Authors: Prakash D P , Deepali B S , Ramachandra Y L , Anand Lalitha , Hanur Vageeshbabu S
Published: August 2023

In the present study, effect of size and age of hypocotyl explant on in vitro organogenetic responses was assessed in eggplant cv. Manjarigota. Size and age did not affect callus-initiation response, but showed marked influence on shoot regeneration response. Hypocotyl explants 1.5cm long showed highest shoot regeneration response (77.4%); either increase or decrease in size resulted in reduced response. Five to 15 day old hypocotyl explants showed direct shoot regeneration from cut ends, whereas 20-30 day old hypocotyl explants showed indirect shoot regeneration from callus produced on cut ends. Five day old explants were most responsive, with highest (91.23%) and thirty day old explants least responsive with reference to shoot regeneration response (20.85%). Shoot regeneration frequency decreased with increasing age, whereas shoot regeneration efficiency increased with increasing age of hypocotyl explants.
Evaluation of Gladiolus Cultivars in Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sankari A , Anand M , Arulmozhiyan R
Published: August 2023

Gladiolus grandiflorus L. genotypes were evaluated for growth and floral parameters in Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu, under Yercaud conditions. Significant differences were recorded for all traits studied. Among 42 genotypes evaluated, 'Pusa Shagun' and 'Pusa Swarnima' recorded quality spikes with higher vase life indicating their suitability for use in floral arrangement, while, genotypes like 'Thumbolina', 'Priscilla' and 'Candyman' were found superior in characters like corm number, corm weight and corm diameter. Taking into account various growth and floral characters of the genotypes studied, Pusa Swarnima, Pusa Shagun, Thumbolina, Priscilla and Candyman can be recommended for cut-flower production in the Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu.
Effects of Cucumis and Cucurbita Rootstocks on Vegetative Traits, Yield and Quality in 'Tainan No. 1' Cucumber
Authors: Chao Hsiu- Fung , Yen Yung- Fu
Published: August 2023

'Tainan No.1' cucumber, an F1 hybrid, is powdery-mildew resistant and is, therefore, fit for greenhouse-culture. Soil-borne diseases in cucurbits have gained increasing importance with intensive cultivation of these crops. In the present experiment, cucumber cv. 'Tainan No. 1' was grafted onto two rootstocks, viz., Cucumisand Cucurbita. Nongrafted cucumber plants were used as the Control. Results revealed that both kinds of grafted plants had similar graft-survival rate, and, better vegetative growth than non-grafted ones; however, between the two rootstocks, grafted plants did not differ in vegetative growth or yield. Further, plants grafted on Cucumis had significant effect on fruit quality. In is therefore recommended that grafting procedure in cucumber greenhouse-culture can be practiced on Cucumis.
Influence of Various Sources and Levels of Fertilizer Applied through Fertigation on Hybrid Watermelon Grown in Rabi-Summer
Authors: Prabhakar M , Hebbar S S , Nair A K
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Bangalore during 2006-2008 to study the effect of fertigation on growth and yield of rabi-summer grown watermelon. Seven treatments comprising varying rates and sources of fertilizers were applied. Application of water soluble fertilizer @ 70:70:70kg N:P2O5:K2O per hectare through fertigation gave significantly higher vine length, number of branches per plant and leaf area index. In general, fertigation treatments recorded higher values for number of fruits per plant, fruit weight and total soluble solids than conventional soilapplication of fertilizers. All the fertigation treatments recorded higher average marketable watermelon yield over conventional soil-application of fertilizers amounting to 7.22 to 26.4% increase. Among fertigation treatments, though recommended dose of fertilizer applied as water soluble fertilizer resulted in highest marketable-fruit yield, highest net income (Rs. 229775) and B:C ratio (3.03) was obtained in treatment with 70% of recommended dose of NPK using conventional fertilizers supplied through fertigation.
Standardization for Drying, Bleaching and Dyeing Processes in Dried Flowers
Authors: Jawaharlal M , Visalakshi M , Cintu S , Ganga M
Published: August 2023

An experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during 2009-2010 to standardize processing techniques for dried flower production. Foliage of silver oak (Grevillea robusta), thuja (Thuja orientalis) and camellia (Camellia reticulata) was best preserved by glycerinization; leaves were soft and pliable, with lowest moisture and highest overall acceptability. In the case of fully-opened flowers in button-type chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum grandiflorum), gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) and plumeria (Plumeria alba), a combination of sand and silica gel, and microwave-oven embedded method was found to be suitable for drying, with high overall acceptability. Dried pods of jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) and castanospermum (Castanospermum australe) were fully bleached by soaking overnight in 10% sodium hydroxide and subsequent treatment with 2% sodium hydroxide + 2.5% sodium silicate + 35% hydrogen peroxide. Bleached pods were given dye treatments where acrylic dyes showed good dyeing consistency, light fastness, wash fastness and rubbing fastness.
Improvement in Quality of Wine by Blending White and Coloured Grapes
Authors: Joshi Veena , Reddy S Amarender , Kumar Vinod , Rao B Srinivas
Published: August 2023

Blending of juices from four white grape varieties viz., Thompson Seedless, Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Italia with three coloured varieties, viz., Shiraz, Ruby Red and Bangalore Blue, was done in 2:1 and 3:1 ratios to assess the effect of blending on wine quality. White varieties blended with Bangalore Blue recorded maximum titratable acidity (1.23%), while those blended with Ruby Red showed the least acidity (0.42%), Alcohol content in the wine ranged from 8.11% (Italia + Ruby Red, 2:1) to 12.04% (Chenin Blanc + Shiraz, 2:1). The range of values for tannin content (0.007% to 0.044 %) and total phenol content (228mg/l to 571mg/l) indicated that white varieties blended with the coloured cv. Shiraz had the lowest content of tannins and total phenols in wine, while, those blended with cv. Ruby Red showed highest content of these in the blended wines. Hence, among different blends, Chenin Blanc, Thompson Seedless, Sauvignon Blanc and Italia blended with the coloured variety Shiraz, in 2:1 ratio, produced good quality wine.
Evidence for Molecular Evolutionary Conservedness of Small Heat-Shock Protein Sequence in Solanaceaeous Crops Using in silico Methods
Authors: Prakash M K Chandra , Thomas Reena Rosy , Reddy M Krishna , Mohandas Sukhada
Published: August 2023

Drought and heat contribute to much of the yield decline in agricultural lands all over the world. The basic physiological responses developed against drought and heat stress overlie each other, as; both these stresses eventually lead to dehydration of the cell and to osmotic imbalance. To cope with abiotic stresses, it is necessary to understand plant responses to stresses that disturb homeostatic equilibrium at the cellular and molecular level. Although there has been remarkable progress in this with development of microarray-based expression profiling methods (together with genomic sequence data), understanding on ways to employ these data to engineer plants with improved stresstolerance is still at a nascent stage. However, these data can be used for discovering genes, functional microsatellites and regulatory elements using in silico methods. In this context, single nucleotide repeat marker sequences have been identified which is associated with small heat-shock protein sequence (sHSP) for heat tolerance in Capsicum annuum. These sHSP sequences have some structural features in common; its characteristic is that it is homologous and highly conserved. These sequences have been analyzed for molecular evolutionary conservedness in solanaceaeous crops and have been found to have a single nucleotide repeat sequence and a highly conserved sHSP sequence.
Improving Lemon [Citrus limon (L.) Burm.] Quality Using Growth Regulators
Authors: Sandhu Savreet
Published: August 2023

Lemon [Citrus limon (L.) Burm.] is a leading acidic citrus fruit. However, poor fruit quality causes considerable reduction in marketable yield leading to heavy financial loss to the grower. To combat poor fruit quality, an experiment was laid out during the fruiting year 2009 with a view to obtain excellent quality lemon at harvest. Plant material for this investigation was selected from Punjab Government Progeny Orchard&Nursery, Attari, Amritsar. Foliar spray of NAA (10, 20 and 40ppm)and GA3 (5, 10 and 20ppm) was applied twice at an interval of 15 days during the month of May. Substantial improvement in fruit quality could be achieved with growth regulator treatment. NAA at 40ppm proved to be the best treatment for managing fruit cracking and improving fruit quality.
Effect of Temperature and Period of Storage on Breaking Dormancy in Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus Hort.) Corms
Authors: Amingad Varun S , Rao T Manjunatha , Venugopalan R , Kumar D P , Dhananjaya M V , Bhanuprakash K
Published: August 2023

An experiment was conducted in 2010-2011 at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, on three gladiolus cultivars viz., 'Arka Amar', 'Darshan' and 'Kum Kum' to study effects of storage temperature (4°C and room temperature 27±2°C) and length of storage (50, 70 and 90 days) on dormancy of corms. Cv. 'Kum Kum' registered minimum number of days for sprouting (42.71 days), spike emergence (116 days) and days to opening of first floret (128 days). Corms stored at 4°C resulted in lowest number of days for-sprouting (45.24 days), days to spike emergence (114.63 days) and days to opening of first floret (126.60 days) and resulted in highest sprouting percentage (58.7%). Interaction effects revealed that cv. 'Kum Kum' stored at 4°C for 90 days after harvest took minimum number of days to sprouting (25.07 days), days to spike emergence (90.38 days) and days to opening of first floret (102.38 days) resulting in 100% sprouting.
Evaluation of Fungicides against Leaf Blotch of Turmeric Caused by Taphrina maculans Butler
Authors: Rao S Narasimha , Kumar K Ravinder
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted in the first fortnight of July 2008, 2009 and 2010 at Horticultural Research Station, Jagtial, and in 2010-2011 at Turmeric Research Station, Kammarpally, to evaluate various fungicides against leaf blotch of turmeric. Treatments included the fungicides Propiconazole (0.1%), Hexaconazole (0.1%), Tricyclazole (0.1%) and Carbendazim + Mancozeb (0.1%) for rhizome treatment (dipping) and for foliar spray at 45 and 90 days after planting (DAP); and foliar application alone at 45 and 90 DAP. Among the treatments, rhizome treatment with Carbendazim + Mancozeb (0.1%) gave the best germination (90.52%); Rhizome treatment followed by foliar application of Carbendazim + Mancozeb (0.1%) at 45 and 90 DAP significantly reduced disease incidence of turmeric leaf blotch (16.13%) and enhanced fresh-rhizome yield (18.30t ha-1) compared to other fungicide applications. High cost-benefit ratio was achieved with rhizome treatment, followed by foliar application of Carbendazim + Mancozeb at 45 and 90 DAP (1:1.92).
Garden Pea Improvement in India
Authors: Mohan N , Aghora T S , Wani M A , Divya B
Published: August 2023

Garden pea (Pisum sativum L. var. hortense) is an important legume vegetable grown for its fresh, shelled green seeds rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. At present over 1000 germplasm lines are available in India. Improvement of garden pea in the country was initiated during the 1940s in IARI and later in several other agricultural universities/ ICAR institutes. Currently, 27 early-varieties and 59 mid-season varieties are under cultivation in india. Initially, focus was on developing early-maturing varieties with high yield and quality. Subsequently, emphasis was laid on developing mid-season varieties having resistance to powdery mildew and other major diseases like Fusarium wilt and rust. Besides, varieties with resistance to bruchids and the leaf miner are also available. In the present paper, an attempt has been made to review current status of improvement of garden pea in India, covering its genetic resources, variability, heritability, genetic advance, heterosis and combining ability, G x E interaction, male sterility, breeding for biotic and abiotic stresses, mutation breeding and biotechnological applications. In recent years, there has been an increase in demand for varieties suited to kharif and early summer seasons, with resistance to powdery mildew, rust, Fusarium root wilt/rot and stemfly and also for processing and export. Therefore, future thrust in the improvement of garden pea would be on developing varieties tolerant to biotic and abiotic stresses (mainly high temperature), and also for processing and export.
Evaluation of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) Hybrids for Yield and Papain Recovery
Authors: Davamani J , Balamohan T N , Sudha R
Published: August 2023

Six papaya hybrids, viz., CO-1 × Pusa Nanha, CO-2 × Pusa Nanha, CO-4 × Pusa Nanha, CO-5 × Pusa Nanha, CO-6 × Pusa Nanha and CO-7 × Pusa Nanha, along with their respective parents, were evaluated for fruit yield and quality. Higher fruit yield was recorded in hybrids CO-2 × Pusa Nanha, CO-4 × Pusa Nanha and CO-5 × Pusa Nanha at first harvest. Higher papain recovery was seen in CO-2 × Pusa Nanha and CO-5 × Pusa Nanha and activity of this enzyme was highest in CO-5 × Pusa Nanha. For fruit yield at first harvest, hybrids CO-2 × Pusa Nanha, CO-4 × Pusa Nanha, CO-6 × Pusa Nanha and CO-5 × Pusa Nanha recorded higher heterosis over mid- and better parental values. Fruit yield at first harvest exhibited high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. Days to flowering had the least genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation. Highest heritability estimates were recorded for plant height at first flowering, ascorbic acid content and titrable acidity. Fruit yield at first harvest showed high genetic advance as percentage of mean and the least genetic advance was seen for days to flowering. CO-2 × Pusa Nanha, CO-4 × Pusa Nanha, CO-5 × Pusa Nanha and CO-6 × Pusa Nanha showed better yield and earliness, and are recommended for further evaluation.
Evaluation of F1 Hybrids of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch. Ex Poir) for Yield and Quality
Authors: Tamil Selvi N A , Jansirani P , Pugalendhi L
Published: August 2023

An investigation was carried out to study the performance of 36 hybrids of pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch. ex Poir) through Line x Tester mating design. Observations were recorded on the traits, viz., vine length, days to first female flower appearance, node number for first female flower appearance, sex ratio, days to first harvest, fruit number per vine, fruit weight, flesh thickness and fruit yield per vine, besides quality traits such as total carbohydrate content, total carotenoid content and crude fibre content in the fruit. Among the 36 hybrids of pumpkin studied, the cross 'Kasi Harit x Avinashi Local' excelled in yield per vine, followed by the crosses 'Vadhalagundu Local x CO-2' and 'Narendra Uphar x CO-2', respectively. Thus, first generation hybrids can be well-utilized for exploiting hybrid vigour to achieve improved quality.
Evaluation of Commercial Cultivars of Cut Gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii Bolus Ex Hooker F.) under Polyhouse in Shevaroy Condition of Eastern Ghats
Authors: Anand M , Sankari A , Arulmozhiyan R
Published: August 2023

An investigation was carried out to evaluate performance of 36 cultivars of cut gerbera (Gerbera jamesoniiBolus ex Hooker F.) in a polyhouse at Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud, during 2008-2010. Significant differences were observed for all the characters studied. Maximum plant-spread (78.02cm) was observed in cv. Robusta. Higher number of leaves was recorded in cv. White Tibet (41.54). Maximum Leaf length and leaf width was recorded in cvs. Golden Gate and Yanara. Maximum number of suckers produced was recorded in cv. Junkfru (7.60). Maximum stalk length was observed in cv. White Tibet (62.62cm), while flower diameter, cut flower production and vase-life were higher in cv. Rosalin. Correlation and path coefficient analysis showed that plant height, number of leaves per plant and number of suckers per plant were the important components of cut-flower yield in gerbera. It may be concluded that cultivars Rosalin, White Tibet, Junkfru and Golden Gate were found to be the best for floral quality and yield, and are recommended for cut-flower production under Shevaroy condition of Eastern Ghats.
Performance of Orchid Species in Shevaroy Hills of Eastern Ghats
Authors: Anand M , Sankari A , Arulmozhiyan R
Published: August 2023

Performance of 24 orchid species was assessed in the net-house of Horticultural Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Yercaud. Among the species studied, plant height was significantly high (105cm) in Spathoglotts plicata. At the end of the vegetative stage, number of leaves was maximum (30) in Aerides. Leaf was longest (49.8cm) and widest (17.6cm) in Rhyncostylis retusa. Paphiopedilum insigne produced largest flower size (14.4cm across). Pedicel length was highest in Phaius tankervillae (10.3cm) and Renanthera inshootiana (7.1cm). Aerides multiflorum recorded lowest pedicel length (1.24cm). Epidendrum radicans and Spathoglottis plicata produced flowers round the year. Lucia virides recorded maximum life (29 days) on plant, followed by Arachnanthe clarkei (18 days), Dendrobium densiflorum (18 days) and Oncidium flexosum (16 days), while, minimum (6 days) was observed in two orchid species, Aerides crispum and Cattleya sp. Maximum (23 days) vase life was recorded in Lucia virides. Results of the investigation thus reveal that among the 24 orchid species studied, Epidendrum radicans, Lucia virides and Paphiopediluminsigne performed better in terms of vegetative and floral characters under Shevaroy hill condition.
Effect of Pinching and Growth Regulators on Growth, Herbage Yield, Essential Oil Content and Oil Yield of Patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli Pellet.)
Authors: Asangi Honnappa , Vasundhara M
Published: August 2023

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of growth regulators on plant growth, herbage yield, essential oil content and oil yield in patchouli (Pogostemon patchouli Pellet.) variety Cim-shreshta, at University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), GKVK, Bangalore, during 2011-12. Results indicated that fresh and shade-dried herbage and essential oil yield was influenced significantly by growth regulators. It is concluded that pinching at 45 days after transplanting, followed by foliar application of benzyl adenine (300ppm), and, subsequent sprays at each harvest was more effective in increasing the yield compared to Control.
Aroma Profile of Fruit Juice and Wine Prepared from Cavendish Banana (Musa Sp., Group AAA) Cv. Robusta
Authors: Ranjitha K , Narayana C K , Roy T K
Published: August 2023

A comparative study of the aroma profile of an alcoholic beverage (wine) and natural juice from banana cv. Robusta was performed. The study showed disappearance and synthesis of many aroma compounds during the fermentation process. Relative abundance of carbonyl compounds was high in the juice, and carboxylic acid content was higher in the wine. Aroma signature compounds of banana juice, isoamyl acetate, butyl isovalerate, isopentyl isovalerate, trans- 2- hexenal and butanoates were present only in a low proportion in the wine, while decanoic, dodecanoic and hexa decanoic acids (as well as their esters) were abundant in the banana wine. Synthesis compounds like methyl nonyl ketone, isoeuginol and 2-methoxy 4-vinyl phenol was greater during fermentation. Elemicin was present in high quantity in both the juice and the wine.
Evaluation of Varieties and Hybrids for Physico-Chemical Characters in Papaya (Carica papaya L.)
Authors: Das Sukhen Chandra , Dinesh M R
Published: August 2023

Papaya (Carica papaya L., Caricaceae) is a fruit crop of commercial significance in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The present investigation was carried out to assess physico-chemical characteristics of 10 genotypes of papaya under Bengaluru conditions. Results revealed that the varieties, Sunrise Solo, Waimanalo and the hybrids, H-39 and H-57 had medium-sized fruits. Fruit cavity index was low in the varieties Sunrise Solo, Pink Flesh Sweet and in hybrids H-39 and H-57. Further, Sunrise Solo recorded the highest plant height while the shortest plants were observed in Pusa Dwarf. Weight of the fruits was found to vary from 486.67g in Sunrise Solo, to 1380.33g in Pusa Dwarf. Pulp thickness, TSS and ascorbic acid were found to be maximum in hybrids H-39 and H-57. Lowest titratable acidity too was observed in the hybrids H-39 and H-57.
Enhancing Growth and Yield in Banana Cv. Robusta (AAA) through Fertigation with Microbial Consortium
Authors: Senthilkumar M , Ganesh S , Srinivas K , Panneerselvam P
Published: August 2023

Studies were carried out at Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bangalore, to test the effect of fertigation with a consortium of biofertilizers for sustainable production in banana cv. Robusta (AAA). The combination of fertigation and consortium of biofertilizers significantly influenced yield and yield-attributing characters in both primary and ratoon crops. Fertigation with 100% recommended dose of fertilizers along with the consortium of biofertilizers recorded significantly higher yield compared to soil application of fertilizer, farm yard manure and consortium of biofertilizers. However, yield difference between 100% and 75% recommended dose of fertilizers was not significant. Likewise, yield difference between 75% and 50% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) too did not differ significantly, although yields declined at 50% RDF. Other growth characters such as number of leaves and plant girth were also significantly influenced by the combined application of fertigation and the consortium of biofertilizers in both main and the crops. However, plant height, number of hands per bunch and TSS were not affected by these treatments. Pulp-to-peel ratio significantly differed in both the main plant and ratoon crops, but days to maturity differed significantly in the ratoon crop. Main plant crop yields were higher compared to that in ratoon. N and K accumulation was significantly higher at 100% fertigation with 300g of the consortium of biofertilizers in both the seasons. However, accumulation of phosphorous was higher at 100% fertigation with 300g of the consortium of biofertilizers (CBF) in the plant crop whereas, in the ratoon crop, highest accumulation of P in the stem was observed at 100% RDF+100g CBF, and, in the leaf and fruit, at 100% RDF with 300g and 200g of CBF, respectively.
Studies on Genetic Variability and Heritability in Bulb Onion (Allium cepa L.) in North-Western Plains of India
Authors: Khosa J S , Dhatt A S
Published: August 2023

A study on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance was carried out in bulb onion for 13 traits using 43 accessions. The range of variation was highest for bolting (0 to 51.30%), followed by days to maturity (110 to 155 days) and bulb weight (44 to 87.03g). Values for phenotypic coefficient of variation were higher than corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all the characters studied. Higher heritability estimates were obtained for plant height, leaf length, days to maturity, number of scales per bulb, polar diameter, equatorial diameter and TSS. Bolting, bulb weight, neck-to-bulb ratio and the lachrymatory factor showed moderate heritability, while, lowest values were observed for leaf girth and number of leaves per plant. Genetic advance varied from 0.06 to 21.82 for leaf girth and bolting, respectively.
Studies on French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Varieties under Different N, P, K and S Levels for Growth, Yield and Economics
Authors: Sharma B K , Kushwah S S , Verma K S , Singh O P
Published: August 2023

Fifteen combinations of three French bean varieties viz., Arka Komal (V1), Swaran Priya (V2) and Contender (V3) and five fertilizer levels (F1- 20:40:40:20kg/ha NPKS; F2- 40:40:40:20kg/ha NPKS; F3 - 60:60:60:40kg/ha NPKS; F4 - 80:60:60:40kg/ha NPKS, and F5 -100:80:80:50kg/ha NPKS) were tested in factorial Randomized Block Design, with three replications. Among the varieties, Swaran Priya was superior for growth attributes, yield attributes and yield. Among fertilizer levels, F5 (100:80:80:50kg/ha NPKS) resulted in highest growth parameters, yield parameters and yield of pods. Economic evaluation showed that variety Swaran Priya under F5 (100:80:80:50kg/ha NPKS) resulted in maximum gross returns, net returns and cost:benefit ratio for green pod production.
Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth and Yield of Daisy (Aster amellus L.) Cv. Dwarf Pink
Authors: Raveendra Y C , Shirol A M , Kulkarni B S
Published: August 2023

An experiment was carried out to improve plant stature in daisy (Aster amellus L.) cv. Dwarf Pink using various growth regulators. Among the various growth promoters and their combinations tested, gibberellic acid (150ppm) and brassinosteroid (0.5ppm) application produced maximum vegetative growth, spike yield and vase-life. It is concluded that a combination of gibberellic acid (150ppm) and BR (0.5ppm) is helpful improving growth and quality in daisy cv. Dwarf Pink.
Molecular Diversity Analysis in F3 Intergeneric Population of Papaya (Carica papaya L.)
Authors: Sudha R , Balamohan T N , Soorianathasundaram K , Manivannan N
Published: August 2023

Attempts were made to estimate molecular diversity present in F3 populations of intergeneric crosses between Carica papaya L. (Var. Pusa Nanha and CP 50) and Vasconcellea cauliflora. Molecular studies revealed that PCR amplification using five ISSR primers in 40 F3 progenies yielded 53 reproducible amplified bands. Of the 53 bands, 44 were polymorphic (83.02%). Polymorphic Information Content (PIC) value ranged between 0.90 (ISSR 807 x 810) and 0.66 (ISSR 834 x 810). Similarity coefficients based on five ISSR markers ranged from 0.05 to 0.96. Maximum similarity was observed for genotypes 1, 4 and 6 of Pusa Nanha x Vasconcellea cauliflora (0.96). Minimum similarity was observed between genotypes 3 and 14 of CP 50 x Vasconcellea cauliflora (0.04). This higher genetic diversity of papaya progenies stands to contribute to development of new varieties and, using the data, further hybridization and selection can be planned.
Growth Restoration Studies in Frost-Affected Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Orchards in Sub-Himalayan Region
Authors: Sharma Shashi Kumar
Published: August 2023

Frost is a major constraint in mango production in the sub- Himalayan region. To restore growth and productivity in frost-affected Dashehari mango orchards, effect of different growth-restoring treatments was studied at highly frost-sensitive, medium frost-sensitive, low frost-sensitive and frost-free locations. Foliar application of urea, benzyladenine, gibberellic acid (individually or in combination) was made during the post-spring season. As the cut ends of branches or damaged open area serve as entry points for the propagation of ice crystals through the vascular system in plants, the experiments were also carried out with and without prior winter covering of cut ends of branches with wax or polythene cover. At low and high frost-sensitive locations, 7 and 5.5 number of news shoots emerged, on average, per scaffold when frost-affected trees were sprayed with benzyladenine (BA 20ppm), followed by 2% urea spray after fifteen days. Better restoration of reproductive growth was observed with this treatment. Pre-winter waxing or polythene covering of the cut ends of branches was very effective in preventing lethal frost-damage (stem injury below 20cm) to the trees. Effect of benzyladenine and urea treatments was found to be additive in trees whose cut surfaces were waxed or covered with polythene sheets.
Influence of Pruning Intensity on Yield and Quality of Nectarine Peach
Authors: Thakur Nidhika , Rana Vishal S
Published: August 2023

A study was conducted to improve fruit yield and quality in nectarine through pruning. Six-year old plants of two cultivars, Silver King and Snow Queen, were given nine different pruning treatments, with three replications, in Complete Randomized Block Design. Results showed that on increasing pruning intensity, fruit yield decreased, while quality of the fruits improved. Best quality fruits in terms of fruit weight and pulp:stone ratio were obtained with 60% thinning-out + 3/4 heading-back, while, maximum fruit surface colour and total soluble solids (TSS) were recorded with 40% thinning-out + 3/4 heading-back. Highest acidity in fruits was recorded with 20% thinning-out + 1/4 heading-back. Among the two cultivars, 'Silver King' exhibited better fruit quality than 'Snow Queen'.
Effect of Dose and Time of Paclobutrazol Application on the Flowering, Fruit Yield and Quality of Mango Cv. Alphonso
Authors: Reddy Y T N , Kurian Reju M
Published: August 2023

A field trial was conducted for eight years at Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bengaluru to find out the effect of dose and time of application of paclobutrazol (PBZ) on flowering, fruit yield and quality of 'Alphonso' mango. The percentages of flowering, vegetative and dormant shoots were affected by paclobutrazol application. Different dose and time of application of paclobutrazol increased the percentage of flowering shoots significantly and most pronounced effect was with treatment D1T2 (3ml/m canopy PBZ applied 90 days before bud break) which recorded 89.9% flowering shoots as compared to 73.8% in control treatment. Regarding fruit yield, maximum mean fruit yield of 22.0kg/plant was recorded with treatment D1T2 (3ml/m canopy PBZ applied 90 days before bud break) and least was with control (13.1kg/plant) which accounts for fruit yield increase of 67.9%. No particular trend was observed in respect of shoot length in different treatments. However in general, paclobutrazol application reduced the shoot length compared to control. With respect of fruit quality attributes, acidity and TSS were found to be non-significant among different treatments during different years. Average fruit weight was found to be significant during different years and paclobutrazol application reduced the average fruit size compared to control. Cost benefit ratio was maximum of 1:2.52 was with treatment 3ml/m canopy PBZ applied 90 days before bud break and least cost benefit ratio of 1:1.06 was with control.
Effect of Spacing and Pruning on Growth, Yield and Quality of Cv. Deanna Fig (Ficus carica L.)
Authors: Kumar Ravindra , Ganesh S , Chithiraichelvan R , Upreti K K , Sulladmath V V
Published: August 2023

The effects of tree spacing (5x2m, 5x2.5m, 5x3m, 5x3.5m and 5x4m) and pruning (8 buds/cane, 6 buds/cane and 4 buds/cane) on vegetative growth, physiological parameters, fruit yield and quality were studied in fig (Ficus carica L.) cv. Deanna in the 3rd and 4th year of its growth during the period 2010-12. It was observed that with increase in tree spacing, growth parameters like leaf number, shoot length, internode length, tree-spread, tree height and tree circumference, along with fruit yield both in terms of fruit number and fruit weight per tree, declined gradually under different pruning levels. Increase in pruning level from 8 buds/cane to 4 buds/cane resulted in increased leaf number, shoot length and internode length. Yield characters, viz., fruit number/tree, fruit weight/tree, fruit number/hectare and fruit weight/hectare were marginally influenced by pruning. However, interaction effects of pruning and spacing were found to be non-significant. Consistently declining trends in photosynthesis rate and stomatal conductance, along with increase in leaf water potential value were observed with increase in spacing. Effects of spacing were more conspicuous than those of pruning. Best results for maintenance of vigour and fruit yield were observed under a spacing of 5x2m or 5x2.5m, and 4 buds/cane pruning. Although there was reduction in average fruit size under closer spacing when compared to wide spacing, fruit quality attributes like TSS and acidity were not affected by various treatments. Effects of closer spacing on growth and yield parameters were more pronounced in the 3rd year as compared to the 4th year, showing better response to treatments in young trees. Fruit yield calculated on per hectare basis showed highest fruit number of 116500-133750 and 274500-299500, and fruit weight of 54.5-62.0 and 158.77- 173.30 quintals/ha, respectively, during the 3rdand 4th year of planting under closer spacing of 5x2m and 4 buds/cane pruning.
Correlation Studies in Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.)
Authors: . Tarannum , Naik B Hemla
Published: August 2023

Eight genotypes of carnation were evaluated for phenotypic and genotypic correlation coefficient between flower yield and 23 quantitative traits, to understand the association between these characters and their relative contribution to flower yield. The aim was to bring about rational improvement in carnation. Genotypic correlation coefficients were higher than phenotypic correlation coefficients for most of the characters studied. Flower yield per square meter showed highly significant association with number of branches, nodes per stalk and nodes per plant; stem girth, number of leaves, leaf area, total dry matter and duration of flowering. Significant association was found with plant spread, girth of flower and flower length, and, negative correlation was seen with days taken to flower bud initiation, first harvest and peak flowering, at the genotypic level. Whereas the number of nodes per plant and duration of flowering exhibited positive and highly significant correlation with yield, only significant correlation was found with plant spread, number of branches, nodes per stalk; stem girth, number of leaves and vase life, at the phenotypic level. These traits may serve as effective selection parameters for carnation improvement.
Influence of Organic Manures and Fertilizers on Nutrient Uptake, Yield and Quality in Cabbage-Baby Corn Cropping Sequence
Authors: Srinivasan R , Rao K Jeevan , Sailaja V , Kalaivanan D
Published: August 2023

Field experiments were conducted at Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India, during rabi and kharif seasons of 2010 and 2011 to study direct, cumulative, or residual effect of organic manures (Farmyard Manure, Vermicompost, Poultry Manure, Neem Cake, and combinations thereof) along with the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and absolute Control, on nutrient uptake, yield and quality in cabbage-baby corn cropping sequence system. Results showed that application of recommended dose of fertilizers [N, P and K (100:50:50 kg ha-1)] recorded highest yield in cabbage (38.91t ha-1), which was comparable to combined application (2.89t ha-1) of poultry manure and neem cake (37.9t ha-1). In baby corn, maximum yield (6.12t ha-1) was recorded with recommended dose of fertilizers, followed by the combined use of poultry manure and neem cake (5.80t ha-1). Among various treatments, residual effect and combined application of poultry manure and neem cake to a preceding cabbage crop, recorded maximum yield in baby corn (4.71t ha-1) over other treatments. Similar trend was seen in nutrient uptake by cabbage and baby corn (cumulative and residual). Highest protein and ascorbic acid content in cabbage, residual and cumulative baby corn was recorded with application of poultry manure + neem cake (2.89t ha-1), and poultry manure + FYM (6.11t ha-1) respectively.
Development of Normalized Cdna Library from Fusarium Wilt Infected Roots of a Tolerant Banana Genotype 'Calcutta-4' Musa acuminata ssp. burmannicoides
Authors: Swarupa V , Rekha A , Ravishankar K V
Published: August 2023

Management of the most devasting disease, Fusarium wilt of banana, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp., cubense, is a challenge to the plant pathologist and the banana grower. Currently, genomics is providing the way for understanding plant defense mechanism, having acquired an important place in crop improvement. To identify the relevant genes and to understand the defense mechanism induced during Fusarium wilt infection, a normalized cDNA library was constructed from infected root samples of a tolerant banana genotype, Musa acuminata spp. burmannicoides 'Calcutta-4', by duplex specific nuclease (DSN) based normalization, using the SMART (switching mechanism at 5' end of RNA transcript) full-length cDNA construction method. Sequencing and analysis of 600 clones revealed 392 non-redundant clones. In all, of 88% of the sequences were annotated using Musa genome database, and the remaining 12% were identified as novel loci not annotated. We observed several resistance genes, ROS scavenging genes and genes involved in ubiquitin-proteosome pathway in this study. These genes may have a possible role against Foc infection. These sequences would enrich the EST data developed against specific stress, which is an indispensable tool for predicting functional genes and understanding the defense mechanism.