bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herbicidal control of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and its impact on aquatic environment
Authors: R.M. KATHIRESAN  , S. DEIVASIGAMANI
Published: December 2023

A research programme was taken up to study the impact of herbicides on the control of water hyacinth [Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms-laubach], optimize dose and time of application, and to trace the impact on aquatic environment through a series of greenhouse and pond studies. The study was undertaken at Veeranum Lake which has a command area of 18,000 ha connected through 27 distributary channels, and infested heavily with water hyacinth. Among the different herbicides tried, viz. glyphosate, 2,4-D Na salt and paraquat, glyphosate proved more efficient with higher magnitude of plant height reduction, weed mortality and reduction in biomass compared with 2,4-D and paraquat. The optimum dose of glyphosate, 2,4-D Na salt and paraquat was 2.5 kg/ha, 1.5 kg/ha and 1.5 kg/ha respectively. Different seasons did not influence the efficacy of herbicides. Glyphosate caused least fish mortality of 23.3% after 32 days. Different organs like gills, brain, liver and kidney of the fishes were studied, for histology and the observations showed tissue distractions in herbicides- treated fish. Glyphosate also proved more efficient and safe on water quality in terms of pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, chemical oxygen demand and mineral content of treated water. The glyphosate-treated water was found safe for irrigating crops with 87, 58 and 62% germination of rice, cotton and okra respectively.
Effect of planting geometries and weed-management practices on weeds, crop performance and economics of direct-seeded aerobic rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: NEESHU JOSHI  , V.P. SINGH  , V.C. DHYANI  , S.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted in a factorial randomized block design during the rainy (kharif) season of 2013 at Pantnagar, Uttrakhand, to study the influence of different planting geometry and weed-management prac- tices on weed and crop dynamics in direct seeded aerobic rice (Oryza sativa L.). Continuous drilling at 20 cm with pendimethalin as pre-and bispyribac-Na as post emergence herbicide supplemented with 1 hand-weeding 45 days after sowing provided excellent results. Echinochloa colona (2.04 +0.71) recorded the maximum summed dominance ratio. Among the planting geometries, continuous drilling at 20 cm and among weed-control practices, pendimethalin (1,000 g a.i./ha) + bispyribac-Na (25 g a.i./ha) + 1-hand-weeding 45 days after sowing (DAS) pro- vided the higher weed-control efficiency (87.4%), productivity ( 4.79 t/ha) and net benefit ( 40,633/ha).
Effect of continuous cropping and integrated nutrient management practices on soil properties and yield of rice (Oryza sativa)rice cropping system in acid soil
Authors: A. BAISHYA  , BHABESH GOGOI  , J. HAZARIKA  , M. BORAH  , A.S. BORA  , A. RAJBONGSHI  , P. DEORI  , J.P. HAZARIKA  , P. SUTRADHAR
Published: December 2023

The long-term effects of inorganic alone and combine effect of inorganic as well as organic sources of nutrients on soil fertility and crop productivity were investigated in rice (Oryza sativa L.)rice cropping sequence in acid soils of north-east India from 1987 to 2014. The higher average grain (6.50 t/ha) and straw (8.25 t/ha) yields of the rice rice sequence were recorded in case of 75% recommended nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) through fertilizers along with 25%N through incorporation of crop stubbles in winter rice at the time of puddling and 75% recommended NPK through fertilizers in autumn rice. The higher available N, P and K status of soil were recorded when recommended 50% NPK through chemical fertilizers applied along with 50%N through Azolla in winter rice and 100% recommended dose of NPK through chemical fertilizers to autumn rice. However, uptake of NPK by ricerice sequence was higher when 75% recommended NPK dose was applied through chemical fertilizers to both winter and autumn rice along with 25%N through crop stubbles only in case of winter rice. Thus, integrated nutrient management involving organic and inorganic sources not only increases the availability and uptake of ma- jor nutrients but also helps in yield sustainability in ricerice cropping system under long run in acid soils.
Performance evaluation of CropSyst simulation model for pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum) chickpea (Cicer arietinum) cropping system
Authors: A.K. SINGH  , V. GOYAL  , A.K. MISHRA  , S.S. PARIHAR
Published: December 2023

CropSyst simulation model was tested during the rainy seasons of 2007 and 2008 and the winter seasons of 200708 and 200809 at New Delhi, to study the long and wide-spread adoptability of pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br. emend. Stuntz.]chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cropping system by comparison of simulated and observed variables. The observed variables collected from the experimental data were used to study the ef- fect of nitrogen (N) levels in pearlmillet and water levels in chickpea for pearlmillet chickpea crop rotation. The calibration, validation and sensitivity analysis of CropSyst model was utilized to quantify and verify the interactive effect of different water and N treatments on the productivity of pearlmilletchickpea crop rotation using measure- ments from field experiments. Results showed that CropSyst model performed well at lower levels of N treatments (60 kg/ha) whereas at higher levels of N treatments (90 kg/ha) the predicted values were lower than the observed values. The model also responded well to limited level of irrigation in pearlmillet, but in chickpea irrigation did not have a significant influence on biomass yield as predicted by the model. The model was tested for accuracy in de- termination of the crop parameters by conducting sensitivity analysis of the model, which depicted that crop pa- rameters, viz. light to above-ground biomass conversion, specific leaf area, phenological degree-days, base tem- perature, stem/leaf partition coefficient needs more accuracy during its calibration and validation. Also, the root mean square error (RMSE) for biomass and grain yield was found to be 1.97 and 0.36 t/ha, being 5 and 7% of the observed mean, respectively, in pearlmillet whereas for chickpea it was 0.40 and 0.17 t/ha which, in turn, was 8 and 6% respectively. These low values of RMSE indicates that the CropSyst model is highly accurate in predicting grain yield and above-ground biomass of pearlmilletchickpea crop rotation.
Effect of establishment methods and nutrient management on physiological attributes and water-use efficiency of rice (Oryza sativa) in a sub-tropical climate
Authors: B. WAHLANG  , ANUP DAS  , J. LAYEK  , G.C. MUNDA  , G.I. RAMKRUSHNA  , A.S. PANWAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2004 to 2008 in acid soils of sub-tropical Meghalaya, under rainfed condition, to evaluate the impact of crop-establishment methods and nutrient-manage- ment practices on growth and physiological parameters of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Three establishment methods, viz. system of rice intensification (SRI), integrated crop management (ICM) and conventional rice culture (CRC), were evaluated under 5 nutrient-management practices, viz. recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) (80 : 60 : 40 N, P O , K O kg/ha), farmyard manure (FYM) 10 t/ha, 50% RDF + FYM 10 t/ha, RDF + FYM 5 t/ha and control (no 2 5 2 FYM or fertilizer). Seedlings of 10, 20 and 30 days age were transplanted at a spacing of 25 cm 25 cm, 20 cm 20 cm and 20 cm 15 cm for SRI, ICM and CRC respectively. Pooled data of year 2007 and 2008 revealed that SRI method recorded higher values of growth parameters, viz. plant height, number of tillers/hill, number of leaves, dry-matter production and root growth, than ICM and CRC methods. Significantly higher root volume and root dry weight were recorded with SRI than ICM and CRC methods. Application of RDF + FYM 5 t/ha being at par with 50% RDF + FYM 10 t/ha showed relatively taller plants, higher numbers of tillers, leaves, dry matter, root vol- ume and root dry weight/hill than the other nutrient-management practices. The rice crop matured earlier (135 days) under SRI rice culture than that under ICM (141 days) and CRC (148 days) methods. Photosynthetic rate (PR) and water-use efficiency (WUE) were significantly higher under SRI, whereas transpiration rate (TR) was higher under CRC. Rice culture under SRI recorded higher values of yield-attributing parameters, viz. number of panicles/hill and number of grains/panicle than ICM and CRC. However, the grain and straw yields were signifi- cantly more with ICM than that of CRC but were at par with, SRI methods. Integrated application of RDF + FYM 5 t/ha followed by 50% RDF + FYM 10 t/ha gave higher value of all the yield-attributing parameters and yield of rice compared to the control. The highest net returns were recorded under ICM rice culture and application of RDF + FYM 5 t/ha.
Influence of different herbicides on weed control, nutrient removal and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: SURESH PAL  , RAJVIR SHARMA  , H.B. SHARMA  , RAGHAVENDRA SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during 2 winter (rabi) seasons of 200809 and 200910 at New Delhi, to evaluate the efficacy of different herbicides on weed population, productivity and nutrients acquisition of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.]. Among the herbicidal treatments, ready-mix applications of mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron (24 + 4.8 g/ha) recorded the lowest weed density and NPK removal by weeds. How- ever, this treatment remained statistically at par with mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron (18 + 3.6 g/ha), sulfosulfuron + metsulfuron (20 + 4 g/ha) and clodinafop + metsulfuron (60 + 4 g/ha). Application of sulfosulfuron and metsulfuron (20 + 4 g/ha) recorded the maximum values of plant height (89.81 cm at harvesting), number of tillers/m (93.39 at harvest), dry-matter accumulation, grain yield (5.23 t/ha) and nutrients uptake (142.4 kg N, 18.90 kg P and 117.23 kg K/ha), which was closely followed by weed-free, mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron (24 + 4.8 g/ha), (18 + 3.6 g/ha) and tank-mix clodinafop + metsulfuron (60 + 4 g/ha).
Productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris) as influenced by nutrient management in cold desert region of north-western Himalaya
Authors: JANARDAN SINGH  , D.R. CHAUDHARY
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the summer seasons of 2012 and 2013 at Kukumseri, Lahaul and Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, to study the effect of nutrient management on productivity and profitability of frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Combined application of chemical fertilizers and biofertilizers increased growth, yield and economics of frenchbean. Application of 40 kg N/ha with and without Rhizobium and phosphate -solubilizing bac- teria (PSB) produced the tallest plants. Application of 20 kg N/ha followed by combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha resulted in the highest dry-matter production. Dry-matter efficiency was significantly higher in N + biofertilizers followed by N , while unit area efficiency was also in N + biofertilizers followed by N 20 40 20 40 and combined application of biofertilizers with 20, 40 and 60 kg N/ha. Significantly higher seed weight was re-
Impact of climate change on potato (Solanum tuberosum) productivity in Bihar and relative adaptation strategies
Authors: V.K. DUA  , SUSHIL KUMAR  , POOJA CHAUKHANDE  , B.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A study was carried out for Bihar state to assess the impact of climate change on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) productivity using WOFOST crop growth simulation model. Three different maturity group potato cultivars were used (Kufri Badshahlate maturing; Kufri Jyotimedium maturing; and Kufri Pukhrajearly maturing). The study was done for baseline scenario (2000) and for future climate scenarios for the years 2020 and 2055 using A1FI scenario of temperature (SRES A1FI pathway) and atmospheric CO (based on the Bern-CC model for A1FI sce- 2 nario). Potential production of potato cultivars was estimated for 29 different locations across Bihar. Kriging tech- nique was used to interpolate the data generated through the model and thematic maps were created based on potential productivity in 2000 and changes thereon in future climates. Under baseline scenario, the mean produc- tivity of Kufri Badshah, Kufri Jyoti and Kufri Pukhraj was 40.7, 38.7 and 40.8 t/ha respectively. Though the in- crease in CO concentration is expected to bring an increase of 4.2 to 4.5% in productivity in 2020 and 17.7 to 2 19.3% in 2055, the corresponding increase in temperature is likely to decrease the mean productivity by 9.0 to 11.0% and 24.3 to 29.1% in 2020 and 2055, respectively. Overall, under the combined influence of increased CO 2 and temperature, the model projected a decline of 5.1, 6.2 and 6.9% in productivity of Kufri Badshah, Kufri Jyoti and Kufri Pukhraj, respectively, in 2020; and 8.7, 10.8 and 12.7%, respectively, in 2055 without adaptation. Re- scheduling planting date can be an immediate option against climate change in Bihar. However, development of short-duration, heat-tolerant as well as nutrient and water-use efficient cultivars with high harvest index along with proper agronomic interventions are required to meet the challenges posed by climatic change.
Impact of cropping systems and soil-moisture conservation techniques on fodder productivity under semi-arid environment
Authors: S.L. MEENA  , S.S. MEENA  , R.P. NAGAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 201113 at Avikanagar, Rajasthan, to study the effect of cropping systems and soil-moisture conservation techniques on growth and yield of fodder crops. The treatments were comprised 7 cropping systems, viz. sole buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) sole pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.], sole clusterbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taubert], sole butterfly plea (Clitoria ternatea L.), C. ciliaris + clusterbean (1 : 1), pearlmillet + clusterbean (1 : 1), and C. ciliaris + C. ternatea (1 : 1)] in main plots and 4 moisture-conservation techniques [control, dust mulch, straw mulch @ 5 t/ha and farmyard manure @ 5 t/ha] in subplots. Straw mulching and the application of farmyard manure (FYM) were found significantly superior to dust mulching and the control in terms of growth and dry-fodder yield. Dry-fodder yield of Cenchrus ciliaris L., Cyamopsis tetragonoloba, Pennisetum glaucum. and Clitoria ternatea L. was significantly higher under straw mulching (3,607; 2,243; 7,041 and 1,746 kg/ha) over rest of the soil-moisture conservation treatments. The dry- fodder yield was also found significantly more under application of FYM (3,338; 2,046; 6,339 and 1,604 kg/ha) than the dust mulching (2,191; 1,864; 6,094 and 1,395 kg/ha) and control (2,012; 1,741; 5,718 and 1,182 kg/ha) respectively. The maximum soil moisture (%) was retained under the cropping system of C. ciliaris (4.83) alone followed by C. ciliaris + C. ternatea (4.09), C. ciliaris + clusterbean (3.99), C. ternatea (3.58), pearlmillet (3.55), pearlmillet + clusterbean (3.44) and clusterbean (3.42). Soil-moisture content also retained significantly more un- der the application of straw mulching (4.27) over dust mulching (3.71) and the control (3.41) but at par with FYM (3.99). Straw mulching under C. ciliaris cropped with C. ternatea was found effective for conserving soil moisture and improving forage productivity under semi-arid ecosystems.
Productivity, quality and economics of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) as influenced by planting methods, spacings and nutrient management under drip irrigation
Authors: P.P. GIRASE  , M.B. DHONDE  , B.D. BHAKARE
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) seasons of 201011 and 201112 at Rahuri, Maharashtra, to study the response of ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) dunal] to 3 methods of planting (broad bed and furrow, ridge and furrow and flat bed), 2 levels of spacing (30 cm 20 cm and 45 cm 20 cm) and 4 levels of nutrient management (75, 37.5, 37.5 kg N, P O K O + 5 t FYM/ha; 50, 25, 25 kg N, P O K O + 5 t 2 5, 2 2 5, 2 FYM/ha; 25, 12.5, 12.5 kg N, P O , K O + 5 t FYM/ha and control) under drip irrigation. Broad bed and furrow 2 5 2 planting method recorded significantly higher values of yield attributes, viz. number of roots, root length, root diam- eter, dry root weight, number of berries and seed yield/plant, and consequently higher dry root (790 kg/ha) and seed yield (1.15 t/ha), nutrient uptake and total withanolide content as compared to ridge and furrow and flat bed. The closer spacing of 30 cm 20 cm resulted in significantly maximum dry root yield (762 kg/ha), seed yield (1.13 t/ha), nutrient uptake and total withanolide content than wider spacing of 45 cm 20 cm. At 30 cm 20 cm spac- ing, the increase in dry root yield and seed yield was 19.89 and 15.20% over 45 cm 20 cm respectively. Signifi- cant increase in dry root yield, seed yield, nutrient uptake and total withanolide content was noticed with increase in fertilizer levels from control to 75, 37.5, 37.5 kg N, P O K O + 5 t FYM/ha. Application of 75, 37.5, 37.5 kg N, 2 5, 2 P O K O + 5 t FYM/ha recorded significantly higher yield attributes as well as dry root yield (837 kg/ha), seed 2 5, 2 yield (1.28 t/ha), N, P and K uptake and total withanolide content than rest of the fertilizer levels. The broad bed and furrow planting registered higher gross returns ( 2,20,379/ha), net returns ( 1,60,796/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.67), followed by ridge and furrow and flat bed. The spacing of 30 cm 20 cm and fertilized with 75, 37.5, 37.5 kg N, P O K O + 5 t FYM/ha resulted in the maximum gross returns, net returns and benefit: cost ratio than 2 5, 2 the others.
Nitrogen management in irrigated wheat (Triticum aestivum) using optical sensor GreenSeeker
Authors: REKHA RATANOO  , SATISH KUMAR  , A.K. DHAKA  , BHAGAT SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 201314 at Hisar, to study the GreenSeeker optical sensor based N management vis-a-vis recommended N application in wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol]. Application of 25 + 50 kg N/ha at sowing and 25 days after sowing (DAS) and GreenSeeker guided N application at second and third irrigation i.e. 33 and 31 kg N/ha produced maximum grain yield (6.60 t/ha) and saved 11 kg N/ha. The same treatment recorded 8.4 to 15% and 11 to 27% higher agronomic efficiency and recovery efficiency, respectively as compared to recommended dose of N application. GreenSeeker guided N both at second and third irrigation stage, resulted into significantly improved yield and N-use efficiency. Single stage GreenSeeker guided N at second irrigation was better than third irrigation in terms of yield and N-use efficiency. Three split N application resulted in significantly higher nitrogen recovery efficiency (14.4%) than 2 split application.
Productivity and energy efficiency indices of diversified maize (Zea mays)-based cropping systems for mid hills of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: S.C. NEGI  , S.S. RANA  , ASHISH KUMAR  , S.K. SUBEHIA  , S.K. SHARMA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during 20102011 to 201314 at Palampur, Himachal Pradesh to find out most productive and energy efficient diversified maize (Zea mays L.)-based cropping systems. The maximum maize grain equivalent yield was recorded in maize (green cob)+asparagus bean (Vigna unguiculata L.)radish (Raphanus sativus L.)onion (Allium cepa L.) (38.8 t/ha) followed by maize (green cob) + french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)pea (Pisum sativum L.)Summer squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) (28.1 t/ha) and maize (Green cob)broc- coli (Brassica oleracea L.)potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) (25.6 t/ha). The highest total energy input was re- corded in maize (green cob)broccoliPotato (57.03 103 MJ/ha) followed by maize (green cob) + asparagus beanradishonion (49.64 103 MJ/ha) and maize (Green cob) + asparagus beanbroccoliradish (43.95 103 MJ/ha). The highest energy input was added through fertilizers (46.5% to 60.4%) followed by FYM (16.424.9%) and seed (1.4% to 22.9%). The highest energy output was recorded in maize (green cob) + french beanpea summer squash (454.0 103 MJ/ha) and maize (green cob)broccolipotato (376.6 103 MJ/ha). The energy pro- ductivity was also higher in maize (green cob)+french beanpeasummer squash (0.8 kg/MJ) and maize+asparagus beanradishonion (0.8 kg/MJ). The energy use efficiency was at par in maize + french bean peasummer squash (12.2 MJ/ha) and maizewheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.) cropping sys- tem (12.9 MJ/ha), however, specific energy was the highest in maizewheat (3.8 MJ/kg) followed by maize (green cob) + rice bean (Vigna umbellate)cauliflower(Brassica oleracea var. botrytis)buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) (2.7 MJ/kg) cropping system.
Effect of sulphur and plant-growth regulators on growth, yield and economics of summer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: CHETRAM SAINI  , N.K. JAIN  , R.K. MATHUKIA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during summer 2014 at summer Junagadh, Gujarat, to study the effect of sulphur and plant-growth regulators on growth, yield and economics of summer groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Sulphur fertilization up to 40 kg S/ha significantly increased plant height, dry-matter accumulation (60 days after sowing, DAS), total chlorophyll content (55 DAS) and mature pods/plant, whereas, dry-matter accumulation at 90 DAS and at harvesting, immature pods/plant, weight of mature and immature pods/plant, and 100-kernel weight increased significantly up to 20 kg S/ha. Significantly higher number of total and effective root nodules/plant (60 DAS), and shelling outturn were recorded at 40 kg S/ha over the control. Significantly higher pod and haulm yields were realized with the application of 20 kg S/ha by 21.9 and 13.0% over the control respectively. An additional net returns of 18.3 103/ha were obtained with the application of 40 kg S/ha in comparison to the control with the highest benefit: cost ratio (1.99:1). Maximum plant height, dry-matter accumulation (60 and 90 DAS, and at har- vesting), total chlorophyll content (55 DAS), number and weight of mature and immature pods/plant were recorded with the foliar spray of NAA @ 40 ppm twice at 25 and 50 DAS, whereas the maximum number of effective root nodules/plant at 60 DAS and 100-kernel weight were recorded with the application of GA @ 20 ppm twice at 25 3 and 50 DAS. Application of NAA @ 40 ppm twice at 25 and 50 DAS significantly enhanced the pod and haulm yields by 33.8 and 18.1% over the control, respectively, and was at par with GA @ 20 ppm twice at 25 and 50 3 DAS. In comparison to the control, the maximum additional net returns of 21.2 103/ha and benefit: cost ratio (2.01:1) were also obtained under this treatment.
Assessment of the system of root intensification in rapeseed-mustard (Brassica species)
Authors: SUMIT CHAUDHARY  , ANIL SHUKLA  , CHANDRA BHUSHAN  , M.S. NEGI
Published: December 2023

A field study was conducted at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre of GB Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar to assess the system of root intensification under transplanting system in Brassica spe- cies during winter (rabi) season of 201415. The experiment was designed in split plot arrangement taking method of planting in main-plots and Brassica species in sub-plots with 3 replications. The growth and yield pa- rameters of Brassica species were affected significantly by methods of planting. The highest seed yield was re- corded with transplanting at 60 cm 60 cm spacing. The highest seed and stover yields were obtained in RP 09 (Brassica carinata) transplanted at 60 cm 60 cm spacing. These findings suggest that growing rapeseed-mus- tard crop through transplanting holds a great promise under tarai conditions of Uttarakhand.
Effect of nitrogen doses and its time of application on growth and yield of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum)
Authors: V.P. VERMA  , RAMANJIT KAUR  , Y.S. SHIVAY  , ANCHAL DASS  , SEEMA SEPAT
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif JuneNovember) season of 2014 at New Delhi, to study the effect of different levels and time of nitrogen (N) application on growth and yield of Bt cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). The results revealed that application of increasing levels of N from 100 to 175 kg/ha showed an in- crease in plant height (134.1 cm to 164.4 cm), leaf-area index (LAI) (2.50 to 8.91), dry-matter production (301.7 to 362.8 g/pl), crop growth rate (CGR) in Bt cotton, although the highest values of these parameters were recorded with application of 175 kg N/ha. Application of N when applied basal also recorded significant influence on various growth parameters over without basal dose of N. The yield of Bt cotton was also increased significantly by differ- ent N levels. The highest seed cotton yield (2.65 t/ha) was recorded with the application of 175 kg N/ha, being 25.6, 14.7 and 3.5% higher than 100, 125 and 150 kg N/ha, respectively. Basal application of N @ 30 kg/ha has an edge over the treatments where basal application of N was not done with respect to yield-contributing charac- ters (sympodial branches/plant, opened bolls, total number of bolls and boll weight) and yield of Bt cotton.
Impact of organic management on yield, quality and economics of Chinese potato (Plectranthus rotundifolius)
Authors: ATUL JAYAPAL  , O.K. SWADIJA  , V.S. ANJU
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during AugustDecember, 2011 at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to standardize technologies for organic production of Chinese potato (Plectranthus rotundifolius Spreng.). The treatments consisted of factorial combinations of 3 levels of organic manure (to supply 100%, 75% and 50% recommended dose of 60, 60 and 100 kg N, P and K/ha), 2 levels of biofertilizer (with PGPR mix 1 and without biofertilizer) and 2 varieties (Sree Dhara and Suphala). The trial was laid out in 3 2 2 asymmetrical factorial randomized block design with 3 replications. Neem-cake @ 1 t/ha and farmyard manure @ 10 t/ha were applied uniformly to all the plots. Application of PGPR mix 1 exerted profound influence on yield, yield components and net income. Variety Sree Dhara dominated over the var. Suphala in yield, yield components and profit. Tuber yield showed an increasing trend with incremental doses of organic manure, resulting in the high- est yield with 100% level. Application of PGPR mix 1 improved the yield. Higher net income and benefit: cost ratio could be obtained by the application of 100% or 75% level of organic manure. Thus, an application of 100% rec- ommended dose of N, P and K (60, 60 and 100 kg/ha) through organic manures (6 t farmyard manure + 3 t coirpith compost + 3 t wood ash/ha) along with PGPR mix 1 and the recommended basal dose of farmyard ma- nure @ 10 t/ha is necessary for getting higher yields of organic Chinese potato.
Tillage and crop residue effects in rainfed pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) in conjunction with sulphur fertilization under pearl milletIndian mustard (Brassica juncea) cropping system
Authors: MUKESH CHOUDHARY  , K.S. RANA  , D.S. RANA  , R.S. BANA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2013 and 2014 to find out the impact of till- age, crop residue and sulphur fertilization on growth, productivity and economics of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. Emend. Stuntz.]. Five tillage and residue management practices i.e. conventional tillage (CT) with 0, 2 and 4 t/ha crop residue; zero tillage (ZT) with 2 and 4 t/ha crop residue were allocated to main plots and four sulphur levels (0, 15, 30 and 45 kg S/ha) in sub-plots. Conventional tillage with 4 t/ha residue gave signifi- cantly higher growth parameters (plant height, dry-matter accumulation and leaf area index) and SPAD value at various growth stages of crop. This treatment also improved yield attributes of pearl millet, viz. length of earhead, grains weight/earhead and 1,000-grains weight and produced 24.3 and 16.6% higher grain and stover yields over CT without residue, respectively. The highest net returns (31.5 103 /ha) and Benefit: cost ratio (1.69) were com- puted in ZT with 4 and 2 t/ha residue, respectively. Results also revealed that increasing levels of sulphur up to 30 kg/ha significantly increased growth parameters, SPAD value, yield attributes and yield of pearl millet as com- pared to control. Application of 30 kg S/ha resulted in 15.6 and 20.4% higher grain and protein yield over the con- trol, respectively. Furthermore, the highest net returns (31.5 103 /ha) and benefit: cost ratio (1.50) were also fetched with 30 kg S/ha.
Effect of planting pattern and fertility level on hybrid maize (Zea mays) + legume intercropping system under dryland condition
Authors: CHETAN SINGH PANWAR  , J.P. SINGH  , R.N. MEENA  , PRADEEP KUMAR
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted in rainy (kharif) seasons of 2011 and 2012, to assess the effect of planting pattern and fertility level on maize (Zea mays L.) with blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merril]-based intercropping system under dryland conditions in alluvial soil of Vatanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Among the planting patterns tested, blackgram proved the best intercrops for maize-based planting pattern com- pared to soybean. In maize condition, maize paired row (50/100 cm) + blackgram (2:1) significantly increased growth, yield attributes and yield. However, intercropping of blackgram and soybean recorded the maximum yield with maize-paired row (50/100 cm) + intercrops (2:2), owing to higher plant population of intercrops compared to other planting pattern, except yield attributes. In case of fertility level, maize with 100% recommended dose of fer- tilizer (RDF) + intercrops with 100% RDF recorded the maximum growth, yield attributes and yield, during both the years of investigation. Finally, maize paired row with 2 rows of blackgram intercropping with 100% RDF of both main and intercrops, proved to be the best combination by recording the maximum land-equivalent ratio, maize- equivalent yield, net returns and benefit: cost ratio. Maize with positive aggresivity factor acted as a dominant crop component in overall treatments.
Effect of improved nutrient management on grain yield of rice (Oryza sativa) and soil health under organic management
Authors: B.L. MANJUNATH  , GOPAL R. MAHAJAN  , R. RAMESH  , N.P. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at ICAR Research Complex for Goa, Goa, for 5 years during 200913, to standardize different nutrient sources for organic production in 3 varieties of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in split-plot de- sign with 3 replications. Rice variety Karjat 3 gave significantly higher grain yield (4.09 t/ha) than either Revathy (3.49 t/ha) or Pusa Sugandh 5 (2.47 t/ha). Application of FYM resulted in at par grain yield (3.66 t/ha) with rec- ommended fertilizers (3.87 t/ha), while Gliricidia with Eupatorium sp. recorded 90% of the grain yield (3.47 t/ha) and 86% of the straw yield (6.88 t/ha) obtained with recommended fertilizers (3.87 and 7.99 t/ha, respectively). Higher increase in soil organic carbon was observed with the application of FYM over 5 years (1.24%). Levels of P and K in the soil were appreciably reduced after 5 rice crops with the application of any of the nutrient sources. Application of vermi-compost influenced higher buildup of both bacterial and actinomycetes growth in soil (24.72 105 CFU/g and 53.39 104 CFU/g, respectively). Application of Gliricidia with Eupatorium sp. recorded at par net returns ( 40,000/ha) by recording 96.5% net returns of the recommended fertilizers ( 41,460/ha).
Effect of crop establishment methods and weed management practices on weed flora and yield of direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: S.K. CHONGTHAM  , R.P. SINGH  , R.K. SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field investigation was conducted during the rainy (kharif) season of 2011 and 2012 at Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, to study the effect of crop-establishment methods and weed-management practices on weed flora and yields of direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). Among crop-establishment methods, bed planting of directed seeded rice (DSR) markedly reduced weed density of various weed flora and their dry weight than zero-till and conven- tional planting, thus resulting in the lowest weed index. Bed planting markedly improved grain weight/panicle but recorded significantly lowest number of tillers/m2 at harvesting among all the crop-establishment methods. Conse- quently, crop-establishment methods failed to influence grain and straw yields and harvest index at significant level. Integration of brown manuring practice (knock down of Sesbania at 25 days after sowing (DAS) by 2,4-D @ 0.5 kg/ha) with either pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg/ha or bispyribac-sodium @ 0.025 kg/ha or both was significantly su- perior in suppressing weed infestations with lesser weed index and higher weed-control efficiency, yield attributes, yields and harvest index. No-till method and integrated weed-management by pendimethalin followed by brown manuring of Sesbania had higher remuneration among the crop-establishment methods and weed-management practices respectively.
Response of rice (Oryza sativa) genotypes to weed management in rainfed ecosystems of eastern India
Authors: SANTOSH KUMAR  , J.S. MISHRA  , A.K. SINGH  , S.K. DWIVEDI  , S.K. SINGH  , S.S. SINGH  , A.A. HARIS  , S. MONDAL  , B.P. BHATT  , SUDHANSHU SINGH  , ASHOK YADAV
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2013 and 2014 at Patna, Bihar, to study perfor- mance of 9 rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes (Sahbhagi Dhan, Sushk Samrat, CR Dhan 40, Abhishek, IR 84899-B-183-CRA-19-1, IR 83387-B-B-40-1, IR 82870-11, IR 83387-B-B-27-4 and IR 83376-B-B-24-2) under 2 weed-management levels [pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha followed by (fb) bispyribac-sodium 30 g/ha at 20 days after sowing (DAS) and 2 hand-weedings at 45 and 65 DASlow weed pressure; and pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha alone medium weed pressure] in the rainfed ecosystem of eastern India. The field was infested mainly with barnyard grass [Echinochloa colona L. (Link)], horse purselane (Trianthema portulacastrum L.), native gooseberry (Physalis minia), purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.) and lesser fimbristylis [Fimbristylis miliacea L. (Vahl.)]. Significant genotypic differences in competitiveness against weeds were observed. Weed-competitive index was the highest (1.5) for IR 84899-B-183-CRA-19-1 and the lowest (0.43) for IR 83376-B-B-24-2. Grain-yield reduction among the cultivars due to weed competition varied from 6.6% in IR 82870-11 to 30.4% in Sahbhagi Dhan during 2013 and 6.5% in IR 82870-11 to 52.3% in Shusk Samrat during 2014. Across the weed pressure, rice genotype IR 84899-B-183-CRA-19-1 (2.75 and 2.28 t/ha) had higher grain yield during both the years. The advanced breeding line IR 84899-B-183-CRA-19-1 and the released variety CR Dhan 40 had superior weed-suppressing ability, while IR 83387-B-B-27-4 had the higher weed tolerance. Pre-emergence application of pendimethalin fb post- emergence application of bispyribac-sodium and hand-weeding significantly reduced the weed infestation and re- sulted in higher yield and profits in dry direct-seeded rainfed upland rice.
Long-term impact of conventional and zero tillage on wheat (Triticum aestivum) in red and lateritic zone of West Bengal
Authors: SOUROV CHATTERJEE  , B. BISWAS  , P.K. SAHA  , U. CHAKRABARTI  , S.P. CHAND
Published: December 2023

Farmers participatory trials were conducted for 7 years during winter (rabi) seasons of 200405 to 201011, in red and lateritic zone of West Bengal, India, to evaluate the long-term effect of conventional (CT) and zero (ZT) till- age on yield and yield attributes, nutrient uptake, nutrient-use efficiency, economics of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) Emend. Fiori & Paol.]. The most influential climatic factor, best planting date for different cultivars and best cul- tivar corresponding to different tillage practices were also adjudged in this study. Zero tillage increased wheat yield on an average by 20.7%, net returns by 9,523/ha, N, P and K uptake by 16, 19.1 and 14.0% respectively, over CT. The most important contributing character to the total variability of wheat grain yield was number of spikes/m2, which contributed 11.7 and 25.8% variation to the ZT and CT yield, respectively. Multiple regression co- efficient analysis revealed that the influential climatic factor for ZT and CT wheat was minimum temperature and relative humidity, respectively. While evaluating performance of wheat cultivars under 2 tillage practices on differ- ent planting dates, PBW 343 and HD 2733 gave the maximum yield between 8 and 15 November, K 9107 and Swarna (L) between 1 and 7 November with ZT method. In contrast, all the cultivars gave the maximum yield in CT within the first week of November, except PBW 343. Interaction between tillage practice and wheat cultivar re- vealed that K 9107 and PBW 343 were most stable cultivar for this zone across tillage options. The lowest yield loss attributable to delay in planting was obtained in the cultivar Swarna (L) (7.85 kg/ha/day) and K 9107 (7.21 kg/ha/day) for ZT and CT respectively, indicating higher stability of theses cultivars for late-sown condition in this region.
Effect of irrigation scheduling and nutrient management on productivity, profitability and nutrient uptake of wheat (Triticum aestivum) grown under zero-tilled condition in south-eastern Rajasthan
Authors: R.S. NAROLIA  , HARPHOOL MEENA  , PRATAP SINGH  , B.S. MEENA  , BALDEV RAM
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Kota, Rajasthan, during the winter (rabi) seasons of 201112, 201213 and 201314, to evaluate effect of irrigation scheduling and nutrient management practices on productivity, profitability and nutrient uptake of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol.] grown under zero-tillage condition in south eastern Rajasthan. Treatments comparised irrigation schedules in main plots, viz. irrigation water: cumulative pan evaporation (IW: CPE) 0.8 and IW: CPE 1.0, and nutrient-manage- ment practices in sub plots, viz. 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF 120 kg/ha nitrogen, 40 kg/ha P O 2 5 and 30 kg/ha potash), 125% RDF and 150% RDF, were laid out in split-plot design with 4 replication. Irrigation at an IW: CPE of 1.0 significantly increased plant height (85.3 cm), leaf-area index (3.64) and dry-matter accumula- tion (894.2 g/m2) at 90 days after sowing (DAS), effective tillers/m2 (489), ear length (9.27 cm), grains/ear (45.3) and 1,000-seed weight (36.82g), grain yield (4.16 t/ha), straw yield (6.50 t/ha), N (69.6 and 44.0 kg/ha), P (15.7 and 3.52 kg/ha) and K (20.6 and 153.1 kg/ha) uptake by grain and straw, respectively, protein content (10.5%), net returns ( 56,004/ha) and benefit: cost ratio (3.30), production efficiency (28.7 kg/ha/day) and economic effi- ciency ( 386/ha/day) and water-use efficiency (80.1 kg/ha-cm)) than the irrigation at IW:CPE of 0.8. However, maximum harvest index and water productivity were observed with the irrigation at an IW: CPE ratio of 0.8. Among nutrient-management practices, 125% RDF registered significantly higher growth and yield attributes, grain yield (4.04 t/ha), net returns ( 54,058/ha) and all the efficiency indices, N, P and K uptake by grain and straw. How- ever, significant improvement in straw yield was observed up to 150% RDF. Maximum harvest index and benefit: cost ratio were found only with 100% RDF.
Hyperspectral remote sensing for monitoring growth of rice (Oryza sativa) crop
Authors: RAMANJIT KAUR  , MANJIT SINGH  , P.K. KINGRA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted with 3 cultivars of rice (Oryza sativa L.), viz. PR 114, PR 116 and PR 118, under 5 levels of nitrogen (0, 75, 125, 175 and 225 kg N/ha) during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2010 and 2011 at Ludhiana, Punjab. Growth parameters like leaf-area index (LAI), chlorophyll content, number of tillers, chlorophyll-concentration index (CCI) and plant height were recorded. Spectral indices such as normalized differ- ence vegetation index (NDVI), ratio-vegetation index (RVI), moisture-stress index (MSI), green index (GI), leaf- chlorophyll index (LCI) and plant-senescence reflectance index (PSRI), were computed using the multiband spec- tral data, recorded with FieldspecPro 2000. The spectral indices at booting stage had the best correlations with the crop parameters and had R2 values between 0.68 and 0.85. Spectral indices correlated well with grain yield (R2 = 0.590.85) and 1,000-grain weight (0.640.84). But the best correlations were recorded with NDVI and R2 = 0.82 for grain yield, R2 = 0.81 for 1,000-grain weight, and with LCI, R2 = 0.85 for grain yield, R2 = 0.84 for 1,000- grain weight. The leaf colour index (LCI) and NDVI were found to be the best indices among the selected and can be used to predict plant-growth parameters and yield at the booting stage of rice crop.
Effect of weed-management practices on weed flora, soil micro-flora and yield of baby corn (Zea mays)
Authors: D. DUTTA  , T.L. THENTU  , D. DUTTAMUDI
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out during the winter seasons of 201011 and 201112 at Jaguli, West Bengal, on sandy-clay loam soil, to study the effect of different weed-control methods on weed growth, soil-microbial popu- lations and productivity of baby corn (Zea mays L.). Besides weed-free check, the higher yield of baby corn (1,464 kg/ha) was recorded with 2 hand-weeding done at 20 and 40 days after sowing (DAS) owing to significantly lower weed dry weight, higher weed-control efficiency (88.32%), lower weed index (4.63%) and increased nutrient up- take than the other treatments. This treatment was followed by straw mulch @ 10 t/ha and increased the yield by 68.98% over weedy check. Integrated weed-management practices like pre-emergence atrazine or metribuzin @ 1 kg/ha coupled with 1 hand-weeding at 30 DAS exhibited superiority to the respective atrazine or metribuzin @ 2 kg/ha alone. Straw-mulch treatment showed the maximum favourable effect on growth of non-symbiotic N-fixing and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria of soil. After the initial suppression, the adverse effect of herbicides on the bacterial population was recovered from 25 DAS. The maximum net returns ( 43,470/ha) were obtained with hand-weeding twice, but the highest benefit: cost ratio (2.43) was recorded under atrazine-treated plots.
Performance of clusterbean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) under variable irrigation schedules and crop-establishment techniques
Authors: G.A. RAJANNA  , A.S. DHINDWAL  , V.P. SRIHARSHA
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2013 and 2014 at Hisar, Haryana to study performance of cluserbean [Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.] under different irrigation schedules and crop-establishment techniques. Four crop-establishment techniques, viz. conventional tillage (CT), minimum till- age (MT), zero tillage (ZT) and furrow-irrigated raised bed system (FIRBS), in main plots were assessed under 3 irrigation schedules, viz. irrigation at irrigation water: cumulative pan evaporation (IW: CPE) at 0.8, 0.7 and 0.6 in sub-plots using strip-plot design with 3 replications. Clusterbean planted under FIRBS showed significantly taller plants, more number of branches, relative growth rate (RGR), crop-growth rate (CGR), pooled yield parameters and pooled seed yield (0.69 t/ha) than CT, MT and ZT. The FIRBS recorded the highest water-use efficiency (WUE) and irrigation water productivity (IWP) than the others. Irrigation applied at an IW: CPE of 0.80 had pro- nounced effect on plant height, pod dry matter, CGR, pooled yield parameters and pooled seed yields (0.60 t/ha) compared to IW: CPE of 0.70 and IW: CPE of 0.60.
Productivity, profitability and quality of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) as influenced by fertilizer levels and integrated nutrient-management
Authors: SUNIL KUMAR  , SANDEEP KUMAR  , AVESH KUMAR  , OMBIR SINGH
Published: December 2023

A field experiment was carried out at Chaudhary Chhotu Ram Post-Graduate College, Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh during 200910 and 201011 on sandy loam soil, to evaluate the appropriate fertilizer level of NPK in conjunction with integrated nutrient management schedule for Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson]. Twelve treatment combinations consisting of 2 fertilizer levels, viz. 75% RDF and 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (80.0 + 25.8 + 33.2 kg N + P + K/ha), and 6 INM schedules, viz. N, P, K alone and its suc- cessive combinations with vermicompost (VC), sulphur (S), zinc (Zn), boron (B) and Azotobacter, were studied in randomized block design (RBD) with 3 replications. Application of 100% RDF not only increased the growth and yield attributes but also increased the seed yield and nutrient uptake significantly, which resulted in higher net re- turns and benefit: cost ratio in comparison to 75% RDF. On an average, seed yield of Indian mustard increased to the tune of 7.4% under 100% RDF over 75% RDF. However, higher dose of inorganic fertilization had adverse ef- fect on oil and favourable effect on glucosinolate contents and therefore, the highest values were registered under 75% RDF. Significantly higher growth, yield and yield components and nutrient uptake were recorded when N, P, K was integrated with VC 2 t/ha + sulphur 40 kg/ha +zinc sulphate 25 kg/ha + boron 1 kg/ha and seed inoculation with Azotobacter 10 g/kg seed, which was closely followed by the treatment N, P, K + VC + S + Zn + B. The in- crease in mean seed yield under the application of N, P, K + VC + S + Zn + B + Azotobacter was 28.14% higher
Effect of sowing environments and genotypes on growth and yield of linseed (Linum usitatissimum)
Authors: MEENAKSHI GUPTA  , SARABDEEP KOUR  , CHARU SHARMA  , DILEEP KACHROO
Published: December 2023

An experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 201011 and 201112 at Chatha, Jammu, to study the effect of genotypes and sowing time on yield, yield components and development rates of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.). The treatments comprised of 4 sowing dates, viz. 20 October, 30 October, 10 November and 20 November in main plots and 4 varieties (LC 2023, LC 2063, LC 54 and Local variety) in sub-plots, rep- licated thrice in a split-plot design. Sowing dates as well as varieties significantly affected growth characters; yield attributes and yields in both the years. Sowing on 20 October during both the seasons was the most optimum time, as it recorded the maximum seed yield of 1.11 t/ha. Sowing on 20 October also gave the highest net returns ( 11,701/ha) and benefit: cost ratio of 1.47. Sowing of linseed on 20 October remained superior to later sowing dates by recording 9.9, 21.9 and 33.7% higher seed yield. Linseed varieties differed significantly for yield at- tributes and yield in both the seasons. The highest number of capsules/plant, seeds/capsule and 1,000-seed weight, seed and stover yields were given by LC 2063 in both the seasons. The results indicated that variety LC 2063 exceeded LC 2023, LC 54 and Local ones in terms of seed yield by 9.0, 17.2 and 31.3%, respectively. All yield components were significantly influenced by weather as represented by the year of sowing. The environmen- tal factors most likely to affect yields were temperature and sunshine hours due to their effect on development rate. Highly significant positive correlation was observed in linseed seed yield with capsules/plant, seeds/capsule, 1,000-seed weight, biological yield and harvest index. The character like biological yield had maximum positive di- rect effect on economic yield followed by seeds/capsule.