bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seed size and its influence on germination, seedling growth and biomass in Saraca asoca (Roxb). De Wilde, critically endangered tree species of Western ghats, India
Authors: Mirgal A. B. , Gunaga Rajesh P. , Salunkhe C.B.
Published: January 2019

Saraca asoca (Roxb). De Wilde is one of the high traded medicinal plant species of India. There is a huge demand for bark of this species both in domestic and international markets. There is a demand for quality planting materials for large scale plantation. Forest department and farmers have already initiated captive plantation of this species. Several factors affect the seedling quality in nursery. Seed grading is one among them. The present study aims at understand the influence of seed size on seed germination and seedling vigour in S. asoca. Association study showed that seed length was positively correlated with seed weight (r= 0.887), seed width (r=0.697) and thickness (r=0.621). Therefore, seed length was used to categorize seedlot into small (< 30.0 mm), medium (30.1-40.0 mm) and large (> 40.1 mm) seeds. Result showed that larger seeds produced maximum germination (86.7%) as compared to smaller seeds (45.0%). Moreover, larger seeds attained higher collar diameter (3.34 mm) and dry biomass viz., leaf biomass (0.91 g), shoot biomass (0.31 g), root biomass (0.95 g) and entire seedling biomass (2.17 g) as compared to smaller seeds. Seedlings raised from medium seeds were at par with larger seeds in most of the traits. Therefore, it is suggested to use seedlot having > 30 mm length, preferably larger seeds (> 40 mm) in the nursery for better establishment of quality seedlings.
Studies on intra-specific variations in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) under different geographical regions
Authors: Ram Budhi , Sharma K. C. , Devi Nisha , Chandel V. G. S.
Published: January 2019

Studies on intraspecific variations in insect pests are an important tool for preparation of management strategy in different geographical regions. In this paper we tried to establish that these variations are also found in the diamondback moth (P. xylostella) populations under north Indian conditions with respect to reproductive biology.The pest populations were collected from five different geographical regions viz. Hisar (800feet), Kangra (2200feet), Solan (4200 feet), Theog (7500feet) and Kinnaur (9000feet) and then reared under laboratory conditions at 25±1oC on cauliflower. The life table analysis revealed that the female from the Kangra population laid maximum eggs (332.16 eggs/female) whereas the number of eggs laid by the female from the Hisar, Solan, Theog and Kinnaur population was 189.53, 207, 252 and 270 eggs/female, respectively. The doubling time (DT) was observed to be the lowest for Kangra (3.12 days) and maximum for the Hisar (4.59 days) population, whereas weekly multiplication rate was minimum for the Solan (2.252) and maximum for the kangra (4.73) population. The true generation time was the lowest for the Kangra (18.54 days) and highest for the Hisar (24.38 days) population. The true intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was found to be maximum (0.222 female progeny/female/day) for the Kangra whereas for the Kinnaur, Theog, Solan and Hisar population it was 0.203, 0.202, 0.182 and 0.151 female progeny/female/day thereby indicating that the Kangra population is more prolific as compared to the population from other geographical regions. The results are indicative of geographical variations among different populations of P. xylostella.
Genetic variability studies for yield and its contributing traits in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]
Authors: Sharma Pravin Kumar , Mishra D. P. , Pandey Amit
Published: January 2019

The experiment comprising 30 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) genotypes were grown and analysed for yield and its attributing traits at the Department of Vegetable science, Kumarganj, Faizabad during Zaid (2011) period. All the characters studied showed a wide range of variation. The variability for yield among the accessionsevaluated was also remarkable. The magnitude phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits. Both phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) were high for plant height (11.10 and 10.60, respectively). Fruit weight exhibited low value of GCV (2.31) and PCV (4.74) and likely to show less response under selection. High heritability (91.3) with high genetic advance (26.74) was recorded for plant height, whereas, ridges per fruit had high heritability (97.0) with moderate genetic advance (18.45). This study aimed to evaluate okra genotypes for variability with a view to providing information on the development of high yielding genotypes to meet the growing food demand of the populace.
Prediction of storability of organically produced paddy seeds through natural and accelerated ageing techniques
Authors: Khidrapure Gajendra , Vasudevan S. N. , Doddagoudar S. R. , Sreenivas A. G. , Rao Satyanarayana
Published: January 2019

The present study was conducted to know the storage potential of organically produced paddy seeds in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur. The seed lot were divided into two parts, one part was stored in cloth bag for a period of 12 months under ambient conditions. At thesame time another set of seeds were subjected to accelerated ageing at 42 + 10C temperature and 90 per cent relative humidity (RH) for a period of 0-12 days. Among the ageing methods, artificially aged seeds showed drastic decreases in seed quality as compared to natural ageing. Among the treatments T9 (37.5 % FYM + 37.5 % vermicompost + 25 % neem cake + foliar spray of panchagavya on 30, 60, 90 and 120 DAT) recorded significantly highest seed quality parameters viz., seed germination (97.81 %), seedling length (29.42 cm) and SVI (2878) at initial stage in both the method of aging and at the end of storage period; seed germination (71.23 and 87.33 %), seedling length (19.66 and 27.00 cm) and SVI (1400 and 2358) in accelerated ageing (AA) and natural ageing (NA) respectively, whereas, lowest in control (Inorganic treatment). The seed quality parameters of four days of AA were similar to that of six months of NA. Hence, storability of organically produced paddy seeds were better as compared to inorganic seeds and it can be predicted that four days of AA is equal to six months of NA. The information generated will be useful in retention or disposal of a particular variety or seed lot.
Disease status and combined effect of biological control and organic amendments in managing stem rot disease of carnation caused by Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Sharma S. , Chandel S.
Published: January 2019

The present study was carried out to know the effect of different soil amendments and biological control on disease incidence, different plant growth and flower parameters. Incidence of stem rot was found serious in almost all the locations surveyed, maximum incidence being recorded at Berthin (33.7%) in district Bilaspur followed by Rajgarh (32.0%), Solan (27.3%) and Matnali (27.1%) in district Sirmour in contrast to lowest incidence (11.2%) of stem rot in Shimla. Integration of Melia azedarach seed (powder) along with Trichoderma viride as well as Neem cake with T. viride and T. harzianum gave maximum reduction (75.67%) in disease incidence of stem rot with minimum disease incidence (6%), in comparison to 24.67 per cent in control followed by Bacillus subtilis + Melia azedarach (8%). These treatment also improved the plant growth and flower quality parameters by giving the average plant height to 82.32 cm, 81.05 cm, stem length (76.64 cm, 75.91 cm), number of flowers per plant (3.79, 3.68), flower size (7.20 cm, 7.17 cm) and took less number of days to first flowering. Disease management practice alone is not sufficient until integrated with other components, as disease is a complex phenomenon governed by many factors. The integration of effective management practices such as plant oils, botanicals and antagonists would be important for the successful management of plant diseases, thus showing its practical applicability in field in mitigating the losses caused by disease in carnation.
Effect of dietary zinc on the growth and metabolic enzyme activities of golden mahseer (Tor putitora) fry
Authors: Bhagawati Kaustubh , Chadha N. K. , Sarma Debajit , Akhtar M. S. , Sawant Paramita B. , Borah Simanku
Published: January 2019

The golden mahseer (Tor putitora) is an important and high valued sport and food fish of national and international importance. Therefore for promotion of golden mahseer, proper mineral supplementation in early developmental stages is very important. The present study evaluated the effects of dietary zinc on growth, survivaland physiological response of Tor putitora fry. One thousand eight hundred fry (avg.wt 54.35±3.09 mg) were randomly distributed into 6 treatment groups with triplicates each. Six iso-nitrogenous (40±0.02% to 41.44±0.01% crude protein) semi-purified diets were prepared with graded levels of dietary zinc. Zinc sulphate was added as the dietary zinc source to the basal diet. The results indicated that specific growth rate (SGR) was of value 2.52 ±0.23 gm of T. putitora fry which increased with dietary zinc levels up to a concentration of 40 mg Zn Kg-1 in diet. The zinc dependent metabolic enzymes and antioxidant enzymes was also observed to be highest in groups supplemented with 40 mg zinc/kg feed. The overall results of the present study suggest the efficacy of dietary zinc on growth, survival and physiological response of golden mahseer fry in order to garner the possibility of establishing the species to commercial aquaculture.
Physiological and biochemical response to higher temperature stress in hot pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Ghai Navita , Kaur Jaspreet , Jindal S K , Dhaliwal M.S. , Pahwa Kanchan
Published: January 2019

The present study was conducted to evaluate the physiological and biochemical changes in some thermotolerant and thermosensitive chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes. Fourteen chilli genotypes (SL 461, PP 404, DL 161, MS 341, VR 521, PB 405, PS 403, SD 463, FL 201, AC 102, S 343, SL 462 and SL 464 along with sensitive check [Royal Wonder of bell pepper] were evaluated for heat tolerance. The observations on morpho-physiological and biochemical parameters were recorded at 45, 65, 85 and 105 days after transplanting (DAT) (high temperature period). On the basis of our studies, genotypes S 343, AC 102 and FL 201 were found to be relatively thermotolerant. However, high temperature markedly decreased the photosynthetic activity of chilli plants by decreasing the photosynthetic pigments in leaf chloroplasts of all the genotypes. The levels of ascorbic acid, total soluble sugars and total phenols increased in the leaves of all the genotypes with the maturity of the crop. Electrolyte leakage and proline content also increased with rise in temperature. Genotypes AC 102 and S 343 were able to accumulate the maximum ascorbic acid, proline, total soluble sugars and total phenols under heat stress conditions. Decrease in fruit set percent led to reduction in the total yield per plant. Maximum yield was observed in genotype S 343 followed by FL 201.
Development of near isogenic lines (NILS) using backcross method of breeding and simultaneous screening against Karnal bunt disease of wheat
Authors: Sharma Indu , Bala Ritu , Kumar Satish , Bains N. S.
Published: January 2019

Karnal bunt of wheat caused by Tilletia indica can be a hindrance to wheat trade as the fungal disease is known to affect the quality of the grain. As a breeding strategy, a set of eight near isogenics lines (NILs) and backcross derived recombinant inbred lines (micro-RILs) were developed in the background of PBW 343 and WH542 for Karnal bunt resistance over a period of time. The donor stocks resistant to Karnal bunt used in the study were ALDAN ‘ S’ / IAS 58, CMH 77.308, H567.7I, HD29, HP1531, W485 and their derived lines KBRL 22 and KBRL 57. Effective method for screening to Karnal bunt was standardized and used for identification of resistant lines across many seasons. Some of the identified lines evaluated for yield were found to be equivalent to the high yielding parents and the commercially grown check varieties. These developed lines will serve as a basic material for production of Karnal bunt free wheat.
Evaluation of management of bacterial stalk rot of maize (Dickeya zeae) using some chemicals and bio-agents
Authors: Kumar Adesh , Hunjan Mandeep Singh , Kaur Harleen , Kaur Rajwinder , Singh P.P.
Published: January 2019

A virulent strain (M-13) of Dickeya zeae causing bacterial stalk rot of maize, isolated from Hoshiarpur district of Punjab was tested against different antimicrobial agents. Five antibacterial chemicals viz., stable bleaching powder, streptocycline, cristocycline, blitox, kocide and one bioagent (Pseudomonas fluorescens) were evaluated against D. zeae under in vitro and in vivo condition. The chemicals were tested with different concentrations i.e. 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 and >1000 ppm and bioagent supernatant used as such without any dilutions. All the test chemicals and bioagent (P. fluorescens strains) reduced the log cfu/ml of D. zeae. Amongst chemicals, stable bleaching powder with 100 ppm concentration showed most effective antibacterial activity which reduced the population of D. zeae with 6.35 log cfu/ml and amongst P. fluorescence strains, MPF-5 strain showed effective result with 8.07 log cfu/ml. In field condition bleaching powder also showed good result to reduce the disease severity with increased the crop yield when used as both methods (drenching and dusting). However, post inoculation drenching with 100ppm concentration showed minimum mean of disease severity (7.13%) with high yield (7.4 kg) in all three maize cultivars (Dekalb Double, Punjab Sweet Corn-1 and PMH-1). The increase yield per cent as compared to control was 52.4% in Dekalb Double, 64% in Punjab Sweet Corn-1 and 57.9 % in PMH-1 maize cultivars.
An application of principal component analysis for pre- harvest forecast model for rice crop based on biometrical characters
Authors: Annu Annu , Sisodia B.V.S. , Rai V. N.
Published: January 2019

An application of principal component analysis for the development of suitable statistical models for preharvest forecast of rice yield based on biometrical characters has been dealt with in the present paper. The data obtained from the two experiments on rice have been utilised to develop the model. The forecast yields of based onthese models have been found to be 24.25, 22.60 and 21.10 q/ha against the actual yield of 28.00, 23.56 and 21.85 q/ha, respectively, in experiment –I. For experiment –II the forecast yields were found to be 24.62, 28.06 and 29.43 q/ha against the actual yield of 28.82, 29.31 and 26.59 q/ha, respectively. These forecast yields are subject to maximum of almost 10 percent standard error. In most of the cases, the forecast yields were found to be close to the actual yield except in some cases. The values of R2, i.e. 79.80 and 72.60 for experiment –I and II, respectively, indicate the validity of the models. Statistical tool like viz. principal component analysis (PCA) has been first time applied to develop pre-harvest forecast model based on experimental data.
Management of false wire worm, Gonocephalum beetle (Tenebrionidae: coleoptera) in chickpea raised under residual moisture conditions
Authors: Wadaskar R. M. , Patil A.N.
Published: January 2019

False wire worm, Gonocephalum indicum, incidence was observed for the first time in severe form in Rabi 2008-09 on chickpea, confined to saline tracts of Vidarbha (MS). Gonocephalum adults inflicts injury near collar region of chickpea resulting in collapsing and drying of plants translating into re-sowing of crop due to poor plantstand. Field study revealed 5.8 – 32.3% damaged plants with lowest damage in Module 9 (Seed treatment with clothianidin 2 gm/kg seed + spaying of chlorpyriphos 2 ml/liter water 20 days after crop emergence), Module 10 (Application of phorate granules 10 kg/ha at sowing + spraying of chlorpyriphos 2 ml/liter water 20 days after crop emergence) and Module 11(Seed treatment with clothianidin 2 gm/kg seed + application of clothianidin granules 200 gm/ha 20 days after crop emergence) with 5.8, 6.2 and 8.7% affected plants. The % drying of plants due to injury was in the range of 4.3 – 21.6 % with lowest in Module 11, Module 10 and Module 9 with 4.3, 6.0 and 6.2 % drying of plants, respectively. Superiority of Module 9 (20.4 q/ha) and Module 11 (19.7 q/ha) was evident in yield, whereas, lowest yield was observed in control plot (13.2 q/ha). Module 9 and Module 11 registered higher net returns of Rs. 13887 and Rs. 9948 per ha, respectively, whereas, Module 9 and Module 10 had highest ICBR of 1: 6.0 indicating the suitability of modules in terms of bioefficacy and cost effectiveness for the management of Gonocephalum in problematic area.
Interaction effect of nitrogen and vermicompost in the presence of herbicide (Clodinafop propargyl) on nitrogen transformation in a sandy soil
Authors: Sheoran Hardeep Singh , Duhan B.S.
Published: January 2019

A laboratory experiment with three levels of nitrogen (0, 100 and 200 mg kg-1), two levels of vermicompost (0 and 1 % on dry wt. basis) and two levels of herbicide (0 and 60 g a.i. ha-1) was conducted with sandy soil of Hisar to study the interaction of nitrogen and vermicompost in the presence of herbicide (clodinafop propargyl) on nitrogen transformation during 2014. NH4+-N contents increased upto the 14th day in soil and then declined up to 56th day under control. NO3--N content in soil increased significantly throughout the incubation study under control. With con-junctive use of nitrogen along with vermicompost, NH4+-N contents increased significantly in the soil upto 14th day of incubation with an increase from 44.49 to 73.22 mg kg-1 and 64.00 to 102.87 mg kg-1, whereas NO3--N content in soil significantly increased throughout the incubation study over control and the increase was from 13.68 to 101.36 mg kg-1 and 23.19 to 115.48 mg kg-1. However, NH4+-N and NO3--N decreased significantly at all incubation periods with the application of herbicide alone and in presence of nitrogen as well as vermicompost. The study revealed that judi-cious use of N, leads to more availability of N to crop and prevents the environmental pollution. Higher levels of N application may increase the risk of ground water pollution due to more availability of NO3- ion which can be sub-jected to leaching losses. Vermicompost proved to be the important source of nutrients as it has narrow C:N ratio and decompose more quickly than other organic manures such as FYM etc. Among commonly used herbicides, clodinafop propargyl is most commonly used herbicide and may have negative impact on the microbial population and thus may hinder the transformation processes particularly in sandy soils which have low organic matter content and thereby affecting the availability of nutrients to crop and play decisive role in crop yields.
Evaluation of some plant extracts in management of dry bubble (Verticillium fungicola) disease of white button mushroom [Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Imbach]
Authors: Singh Shivam , Lal Abhilasha A. , Singh Anurag , Yaduman Rao , Murmu Rakhi
Published: January 2019

The study was undertaken to determine antifungal potentials of some plant extracts against dry bubble (Verticillium fungicola) disease of white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). Twelve botanicals namely, Allium cepa, A. sativum, Saraca asoca, Aloe vera, Azadirachta indica, Lantana camara, Ocimum sanctum, Solanum lycopersicum (Lycopersicon esculentum), Tagetes erecta, Psidium guajava, Catharanthus roseus and Aparagus racemosus were evaluated in-vitro and in-vivo for their efficacy against both A. bisporus and V. fungicola, causing dry bubble disease of mushroom. The efficacy of botanicals was examined by poison food technique in in-vitro. The percent inhibition produced by botanicals against V. Fungicola recorded in-vitro was; A. cepa (25.87%), A. sativum (24.70%), S. asoca (12.35%), A. vera (22.35%), A. indica (35.11%), L. camara (28.48%), O. sanctum (20.59%), S. lycopersicum (20.34%), T. erecta (14.11%), P. guajava (15.11%), C. roseus (18.11%) and A. racemosus (13.52%). Among these plant extracts, A. indica was found best treatment followed by L. Camara and A. Cepa. Plant extracts showing maximum efficacy against V. fungicola and minimum inhibition against mushroom were further evaluated against V. fungicola infection in mushroom crop room (in-vivo test). In in-vivo test, the polybags which receive A. indica show maximum mean increase in yield (43.46%) over control and exhibited minimum mean disease incidence (27.7%).
Response of NPK fertigation on pheno-physiological status of Citrus sinensis Osbeck cv. Mosambi under high density planting
Authors: Nirgude Vishal , Karuna K. , Mankar Abhay , Kumar Vikash , Spandana Maggidi
Published: January 2019

The field experiment was conducted during 2013-14 to study the effects of fertigation on the phenology and physiological status of Citrus sinensis cv. Mosambi. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with seven fertigation level, viz. T1- 120% of RDF; T2- 100% of RDF; T3- 80% of RDF; T4- 60% of RDF; T5- 40% of RDF; T6- Full dose in basal with drip irrigation and T7- Full dose in basal without drip irrigation and each treatment were replicated three times. Results obtained showed that increase in plant height (36.75 cm), trunk girth (4.67 cm), canopy volume (1.83 m3), leaf area index (5.51) and growth of current season shoot (9.42 cm2) of the plant were more responsive to higher dose of fertigation i.e. T1 followed by T2. The treatment effect was not marked on reproductive growth as expressed in terms of bud emergence, full bloom, fruit set and duration of bud emergence to maturity. The tree physiological parameters viz. total chlorophyll (2.65 mg/g), net photosynthesis rate (6.83 ?mol CO2 /m2/sec), stomatal conductance (0.18 mol/m2/sec) and leaf area (31.9 cm2) were also higher under treatment receiving higher dose of fertigation i.e. T1. Therefore, on the basis of results obtained, treatment 120% RDF found superior in maintaining pheno-physiological status of mosambi plant under high density planting.
Seasonal abundance and bio-efficacy of different insecticides against castor semilooper on castor
Authors: Singh Yashdev , Singh Balbir , Singh S. P. , Devi Suman
Published: January 2019

The present study was conducted at Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, Regional Research Station, Bawal, Haryana (India). The larvae of castor semilooper remain active from 30th standard weeks to 47th standard weeks. The maximum larval population was recorded on the 32th standard week (6.1 larvae per plant) and 38th standard meteorological weeks (6.2 larvae per plant) due the high rainfall, 158 and 120 mm, during these weeks, respectively. Correlation indicates that minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and rainfall exhibited a positive relationship (r- 0.588, 0.577 and 0.650) with the larval population. Bio-efficacy of four insecticides with different doses was tested against A. janata infesting castor crop. One day after spraying thiodicarb @ 468 g proved best toxicant followed by thiodicarb @ 375 g, deltamethrin @ 11.2 g, deltamethrin @ 10.5 g, quinalphos @ 250 g, quinalphos @ 200 g, novaluron @ 100 g and novaluron @ 75 g. At three days after spraying, it was found that novaluron @ 100 g was the most effective followed by novaluron @ 75 g, thiodicarb @ 468 g, deltamethrin @ 11.2 g, thiodicarb @ 375 g, deltamethrin @ 10.5 g, quinalphos @ 250 g and quinalphos @ 200 g. At seven days after spraying novaluron @ 100 g proved to be best toxicant followed by novaluron @ 75 g, thiodicarb @ 468 g, thiodicarb @ 375 g, deltamethrin @ 11.2 g, deltamethrin @ 10.5 g, quinalphos @ 250 g and quinalphos @ 200 g. Novaluron 100 g was the overall most effective with 75.97 mean per cent reduction in larval population.
Assessment of insecticides and Cry2AB toxin resistance development in Karnataka population of Plutella xylostella (Linn.)
Authors: Sunitha V. , Singh T. V. K. , Babu V. Ramesh , Satyanarayana J.
Published: January 2019

Insecticidal resistance studies against third instar larvae of DBM (Plutella xylostella L.) were carried out to know the rate of development of resistance from F1 to F3 generations in Karnataka population. The third instar larvae obtained from field were subjected to bioassay studies with tested against acephate, cypermethrin, spinosad, cartap hydrochloride and Cry2Ab toxin using leaf dip method to calculate LC50 values. The LC50 values of the insecticides were further used to quantify the resistance in P. xylostella of parental generation (F0) from Karnataka field population. The survivals from F0 generation were reared to next generation (F1). Resistance development studies was assessed from F1 to F3 generation with third instar larvae in every generation with a concentration that caused 80.00 % mortality for all the test insecticides and Cry2Ab toxin. Results revealed that ((0.17 folds) no resistance was developed against acephate in F3 generation. In case of cypermethrin 2.33 folds. Resistance studies further revealed that 1.50 folds resistance was developed against spinosad, 2.28 folds against cartap hydrochloride and Cry2Ab toxin 1.49 folds resistance was recorded in F3 generation. The rate of development of resistance from F1 to F3 generations increased in all the test insecticides and Cry toxin, except against acephate in Karnataka population. This data will be useful in the development of insecticide resistance management approach for DBM.
Effect of spacing, fertilizers and varieties on growth and yield parameters of okra (Abelmoschus esculantus (L.) Moench)
Authors: Kumar Vikash , Dhankhar S. K. , Vilas Chandanshive Aniket , Kathwal Rajesh , Yadav Neha
Published: January 2019

The experiment was conducted during spring summer seasons of 2013 and 2014 conducted at Research Farm of Vegetable Science, CCS HAU, in summer season. There were three spacing, three fertilizer levels and two varieties in split-split plot design with three replications. Growth parameters of okra crop were significantly affectedby spacing, fertilizer and varieties. Highest plants were observed in wider spacing with fertilizer application of 187.5 kg N + 75kg P2O5 + 60 kg K2O per hectare in variety HBT-49-1. However, numbers of branches were highest in variety Hisar Unnat. Yield attributes like first fruiting node, intermodal length, fruit length and diameter etc. were highest in variety HBT-49-1 resulting in highest fruit yield (q/ha) in spacing 30 cm x 10 cm with the application of 187.5 kg N+75 kg P2O5 + 60 kg K2O per hectare. The seed yield attributes and yield was significantly affected by spacing, fertilizer and varieties. Finally, spacing 30 cm × 10 cm resulted in higher growth parameters, yield attributes and yield with the application of 187.5 kg N +75 kg P2O5 + 60 K2O in variety HBT-49-1 of okra.
Performance of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) under drip irrigation and mulch
Authors: Thentu T. L. , Dutta D. , Mudi D. Dutta , Saha A.
Published: January 2019

Field experiment was conducted at Central Research Farm of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyala, Gayespur, West Bengal during winter seasons of 2011-12 and 2012-13 to assess the comparative effectiveness of drip and conventional surface irrigation with and without mulch on growth and yield of broccoli. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design replicated thrice. Main plot treatments consist of four levels of irrigation such as surface irrigation with IW/CPE 1.0 and three drip irrigation at 1.0, 0.8 and 0.6 ETc (crop-evapotranspiration), and three mulch levels like no mulch, black polythene mulch and paddy straw mulch @ 5t/ha in sub-plots. The results showed that drip irrigation at 0.8 ETc showed significantly higher (P = 0.05) plant height (45.69 cm), no of leaves plant-1 (17.66), leaf size index (743.99 cm2), plant spread (89.94 cm), curd diameter (14.43 cm) and marketable curd yield (17.82 t ha-1) of broccoli, which was at par with drip at 1.0 ETc. Minimum growth and yield was obtained with drip irrigation at 0.6 ETc in both the years. Similarly, significantly the highest (P = 0.05) plant variables and curd yield was obtained with use of black polythene mulch over paddy straw and no mulch treatments. However, drip irrigation at 0.6 ETc registered maximum water use efficiency of 117.31kg ha-mm-1 and water saving of 38.43%. The interaction effect showed that drip irrigation at 0.8 ETc along with black polythene mulch produced significantly higher marketable curd yield. The experimental findings can be recommended for growing high value crop broccoli with water saving drip irrigation at ETc 0.8 along with plastic mulch technology in the water scarce regions of West Bengal.
Genetic diversity analysis in Gladiolus genotypes (Gladiolus hybridus Hort)
Authors: Bhajantri Archana , Patil V. S.
Published: January 2019

In the present investigation, thirty gladiolus (Gladiolus hybridus Hort) genotypes were assessed to know the nature and magnitude of genetic divergence using Mahalanobis D2 statistics. Genetic diversity study indicated that among the 17 characters, most of the flower characters contributed towards diversity. Floret diameter contributed maximum towards genetic divergence followed by number of florets per spike, vase life, spike length and plant height.Thirty genotypes were grouped into 8 clusters and among them, cluster I was the largest with 9 genotypes followed by cluster II having 7 genotypes, and IV cluster 6 and cluster III with 3 genotypes each. Clusters were of V, VII and VIII solitary type means they having only one genotype in their group. Divergence values (D2 value) ranged from zero to 7.97 indicating considerable amount of moderate variability in the material studied. Information generated from the present study would be useful in selection of parents for future breeding programme for flower quality improvement in gladiolus. It is desirable to select genotypes from clusters having high cluster means and also with high flower character like spike length as parents for future recombination breeding programmes.
Insect growth regulatory activities from oils of camphor and clove against Spilosoma obliqua
Authors: Bhatt Priyanka , Thodsare Nitin , Srivastava R.P.
Published: January 2019

The present study was conducted to evaluate the insecticidal and growth regulatory activities of clove oil, Syzygium aromaticum and camphor oil, Cinammomum camphora against Bihar hairy caterpillar, Spilosoma obliqua. The fourth instar larvae were subjected to topical application by microapplicator syringe with doses of 2.5, 2.0, 1.5, 1.0 and 0.5 ?l/larva. Camphor oil was most effective at 2.5, 2.0 and 1.5?l dose causing death of larvae ranging from 76-90%. It showed a strong growth regulatory activity with no adult emergence at the highest concentration. Clove oil was effective in reducing adult moth population to 27% at highest dose of 2.5 ?l. Only this dose could cause larval mortality of about 60%. The study shows potential of these oils to be utilized as insecticides or antibiosis mechanism to suppress the population of S. obliqua.
Three decades of using of gypsum under sodic water irrigation in coarse textured soils
Authors: Yadav P. K. , Jat M. K. , Tikkoo Abha , Yadav S. S. , Sharma S. K.
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to determine the long term use of sodic waters and gypsum on physico-chemical properties of coarse textured loamy sand soil. The study consisted of three natural occurring underground sodic waters and amendment gypsum in various cropping systems. The results demonstrated that sodic water irrigation significantly decreased infiltration rate (1.46 & 1.09 cm hr-1) and soil porosity (35.66 & 33.26 %) and increased soil strength (17.49 & 17.67 kg cm-1), pH (9.52 & 9.66), exchangeable sodium percentage (48.00 & 55.00), sodium adsorption ratio (45.14 & 54.10 (mmol/l)1/2) and calcium carbonate content (2.15 & 2.44 %). The gypsum application significantly improved infiltration rate (2.20 cm hr-1) and soil porosity (38.7 %) and reduced soil strength (16.74 kg cm-1), soil pH (9.35) exchangeable sodium percentage (39.00), sodium adsorption ratio (36.93 (mmol/l)1/2) over a period of thirty years. A significant CaCO3 build up in soil was also observed with gypsum application (3.28 % 4.56 %) as compared to its content at the start of study. Thus, it is concluded that in coarse textured soils of North west India, sodic waters up to RSC 12.0 me l-1 could safely be used crop production in combination with gypsum in loamy sand soil without any adverse effect on the physico-chemical characteristics of soil.
Impact of improved farm technology on pulses production in Karnataka
Authors: Suragonda Vinayak S. , Reddy B. S. , Sharma O. P.
Published: January 2019

The current study aimed at evaluating technical efficiency and change in output of pulse crops in Karnataka. Totally 180 farmers were selected for eliciting required information on adoption of A3P technology. The results of the study revealed that majority of the farmers were operating above 80 per cent efficiency levels in both pulses across the farmers of A3P and Non-A3P. Further, more than 53 per cent of farmers' under redgram and 56 per cent under bengalgram have achieved 100 per cent efficiency level in A3P farmers category. Decomposition of the difference in total output between A3P and Non-A3P farmers was 13.23 and 14.86 per cent in redgram and bengalgram crops respectively. The A3P technology has alone contributed to the extent of 29 and 22 per cent to the total change in redgram and bengalgram output indicating output can be increased by about 29 and 22 per cent if the farmers could switch over from traditional practices (Non-A3P) to A3P technology. There is need to educate farmers on optimum use of inputs through conducting intensive trainings on A3P technology by KVK’s and other extension agencies to increase the supply of pulses in the country.
In-vitro analysis of potential antibacterial activity of three medicinal plants
Authors: Gupta Vandana , Kumar Rakesh , Chaudhary Deepika , Yadav Nirmal
Published: January 2019

The present study was aimed to examine and compare the antibacterial activity of hot methanolic extract of medicinal plants viz. Portulaca oleracea (purslane), Syzygium cumini (L.) (jamun), Psidium guajava (L.) (guava). Antibacterial activity was carried by using agar well diffusion method, against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). Results indicated that all the three plant extracts possess antibacterial property against Gram-positive bacteria and no activity was found against Gram-negative bacteria. Moderate zone of inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis was exhibited by S. cumini (L.) (11mm and 12mm) and P. guajava (L.) (10mm and 11mm) and weak zone of inhibition was exhibited by P. oleracea (5 mm and 6mm). In conclusion, S. cumini (L.) and P. guajava (L.) possess bettercapabilities of being a good candidate in search for natural antibacterial agent against infections and diseases causing Gram-positive bacteria as compared to P. oleracea.
Influence of nitrogen on guttation fluid and development of bacterial blight of rice
Authors: Kiran R. , Hunjan M. S. , Singh P. P.
Published: January 2019

Bacterial blight disease of rice is major constraint in rice cultivation. This disease is influenced by prevailing weather conditions, rice physiology and nutrition. The experiment was carried out to assess the role of nitrogenous fertilizer on development of bacterial blight disease of rice and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae density in guttation fluid. Disease development increased with increase in nitrogen fertilizer, among four doses of nitrogen tested (control, 36, 54,72 kg urea/acre), disease severity was maximum in the plot supplied with highest dose of nitrogen i.e. 72 kg urea/acre at both seedling (19.3%) and tillering stage (32.4%) at 30 days after inoculation. The highest population density of X. oryzae pv. oryzae (6.02 log cfu/ml) was also recovered in guttation fluid collected from X.oryzaepv. oryzae inoculated plants at tillering stage, from the plots supplied with highest dose (72 kg urea/acre) of nitrogen.Scanning electron microscopic studies also revealed intense colonization by X. oryzae pv. oryzae in rice leaves supplied with high nitrogen dose.
Physico-chemical attributes and organoleptic assessment of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cultivars grown in eastern Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Tiwari Anupam , Pal A. K. , Singh Sarvesh , Singh S. P. , Patidar Vishnu lal
Published: January 2019

A study was conducted to evaluate the different guava cultivars for their physico-chemical composition and organoleptic assessment during the year 2012-2013. Results of study indicated that Gorakh Bilas Pasand cultivar proved to be superior on the basis of physical characters (Length-7.64 cm, Breadth-7.79 cm , Weight-240.60 g, Number of seeds per fruit-251 etc.) followed by Lucknow-49. However, Lucknow-49 was found noteworthy in respect of chemical composition (TSS-13.00 oBrix, Acidity-0.50%, pH-5.86, Vitamin C-300.36 mg/100g etc). In organoleptic assessment, it was found that ‘liked very much’ rating was provided by consumer to Lucknow-49. On the basis of overall findings, it was concluded that ‘Lucknow-49’ was superior in most of characters studied and might be one of the promising cultivars for quality fruits under eastern Uttar Pradesh conditions.
Intercropping in cabbage (Brassica Oleracea L.var. capitata f.) for growth, yield, quality and sustainable soil health under foothills of Eastern himalayan region
Authors: Choudhuri Partha
Published: January 2019

The present study was done for intercropping in cabbage (Brassica Oleracea L.var.capitata f.) for growth, yield, quality and sustainable soil health under foothills of Eastern Himalayan region. The pooled results revealed that head yield, ascorbic acid content and nutrient uptake from soil varied according to treatments combination. Sole cropping of cabbage recorded maximum values for most of the growth characters like plant height (1.30 cm), shoot weight (59.47 g), root weight (46.36 g), shoot to root ratio (1.30), root length (17.97 cm) and root volume (37.24 cc) and yield (37.11 t ha-1). But as per cabbage equivalent yield (44.39 t ha-1),economics (B:C ratio 2.96) and production efficiency (591.80 kg-1ha-1day) are concerned cabbage and garden pea intercropping system recorded significantly highest values than all other treatments. cabbage and garden pea intercropping system also recorded maximum ascorbic content(38.61mg-1 100g).Highest residual N (174.12 kg ha-1) content was obtained in sole garden pea plots whereas maximum values for available P2O5 (30.31 kg ha-1) and K2O (171.83 kg ha-1) were recorded in sole coriander plots. Cabbage and beet root intercropping system recorded minimum values for most of the growth characters like shoot weight (35.88 g), root weight (26.80 g),root length(10.83 cm), shoot and root volume (23.54 cc),cabbage equivalent yield (32.10 t ha-1) ascorbic content(29.94 mg-1 100g). Inclusion of garden pea in cabbage inter rows may be adopted by cabbage growers of foothills of eastern Himalayan region of West Bengal for additional income and soil enrichment.
Long-term effects of fertilizer and manure application on soil quality and sustainability of jute-rice-wheat production system in Indo-Gangetic plain
Authors: Kundu D. K. , Mazumdar S. P. , Ghosh D. , Saha A. R. , Majumdar B. , Ghorai A. K. , Behera M. S.
Published: January 2019

A long-term fertilizer experiment was initiated in 1971 in sandy loam soil (Eutrochrept) of Barrackpore, West Bengal to study the effects of applying organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on yield of jute-rice-wheat system and soil health. The unfertilized soil supported yields of 0.8 t ha-1 of jute fibre, 1.5 t ha-1 of rice grain and 0.7 t ha-1 of wheat grain (average yield of 42 years). Application of 150% recommended NPK through chemical fertilizers produced maximum yields of jute (2.1 t ha-1), rice (3.8 t ha-1) and wheat (2.8 t ha-1). The yields obtained with 150% NPK fertilizers were 5%, 2.7% and 12% higher than that with 100% NPK fertilizers +FYM. Combined application of 100% NPK fertilizers and FYM, however, increased soil organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from 5.60 to 8.90 g kg-1, 270 to 316 kg ha-1, 40.7 to 120 kg ha-1 and 139 to 236 kg ha-1 respectively. Maximum DTPA-extractable micronutrients in soil were also observed with 100%NPK fertilizers+FYM. Applying FYM together with NPK fertilizers increased microbial biomass from 221 to 435 mg kg-1 and microbial quotient from 3.95 to 4.89 with concomitant increase in dehydrogenase, phosphatase and fluorescein-diacetate-hydrolyzing activities in the soil. The acid phosphatase activity (139 to 275 ?g PNPg-1 h-1) was much lower than alkaline phosphatase activity  (479 to 616 ?g PNPg-1 h-1). The enzymes assayed showed significant correlation with microbial-C and organic C. Beneficial effects of integrated nutrient management (NPK+FYM) on soil health were reflected on the yields of all the crops.
Popularization of organic chilli cultivation in the Eastern Ghat high land zone of Odisha, India
Authors: Sial P. , Tarai R. K. , Sethy B. K.
Published: January 2019

The present study was conducted in the Koraput district of Odisha in India during 2012-13 and 2013-14 under National Horticulture Mission for popularization of organic chilli cultivation through frontline demonstrations.The green chilli yield of hybrid Guntur Hope varied from 5.0 t/ha to 6.67 t/ha in different FLD organic plots, where as it varied from 5.75 t/ha to 6.83t/ha in inorganic plots (Farmers Practice). The average yield in organic plots was 6.29 t/ha in comparison with average yield 6.52 t/ha of inorganic plots in farmers practice. The average cost of cultivation per ha of chilli on FLD plots was Rs.46, 100/- as against Rs. 43,400/- on inorganic plots (Farmers Practice). The cost of chilli cultivation in organic farming was comparatively higher than the conventional practice because of use of bio inputs in the field. However, the averages net return of Organic chilli in different FLD plots was Rs. 58,167/- in contrast to Rs. 43,107/- in inorganic chilli. The organic farming recorded higher net return than that of the Farmers Practice. The B:C ratio was found to be 1: 2.28 in Organic chilli and 1: 2.00 in Inorganic chilli. Organic chilli growers were highly satisfied with their organic production and economic return. Chilli farmers were advised to switch over to organic farming which can give high return and minimize environmental degradation.
Evaluation and comparative performance of six loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) varieties under Punjab conditions
Authors: Bons Harsimrat K. , Gill K. S. , Sarabha J. S.
Published: January 2019

Evaluation and comparative performance of six loquat Eriobotrya japonica Lindl. cultivars viz. selections, pathankot, tanaka, golden yellow, pale yellow and improved golden yellow was studied under Punjab conditions in 2012-13 and 2013-14. The main objective of the study was to evaluate and recommend the loquat variety with higher yield potential and better fruit quality for the growers of Punjab. Among the six varieties of loquat, cv. Tanaka was found most promising on the basis of the maximum fruit weight (23.5g), fruits per cluster (12), fruit length (4.5cm) fruit breadth (3.64 cm) Pulp weight (29.52g) fruit yield (34.0g),TSS (11.03%.) with minimum acidity (1.12%), seed weight and seed number. Moreover ‘Tanaka’ fruits had higher consumer acceptance (7.83 out of 9) as compared to other loquat varieties under comparison. These varieties were compared with recommended varieties as standard check. The study indicate that cv Tanaka has the potential to excel under Punjab conditions as compared with the prior existing cultivation.
Effect of inter-fruit competition on development of physiological disorder “Aril browning” in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)
Authors: Singh Hemlata , Singh Nidhi , Dolui Subhrojit
Published: January 2019

The quality of fruits is a major factor limiting the export of fruit. One of the important causes of quality deterioration of fruits is their physiological disorder. Present study was conducted to study the effect of inter-fruit competition on physiological disorder of pomegranate(Punica granatum L.) “Aril Browning (AB)”, incidence was higher in panicles with more number of fruits, i.e. panicles with two fruits had high intensity of both medium intensity (13%) and high intensity (2%) of AB incidence in comparison to panicle with one fruit,which had 7 % of medium intensity (MI) and 1% of high intensity (HI) of incidence. Competition among fruits was further accelerated by treating the fruits with growth regulators viz GA3 and PBZ. The GA3 treated fruit was showing fewer incidences (7 % of MI of browning affected aril and zero percentage of HI of incidence) over the control (15% of MI and 2 % of HI) in contrast to PBZ treatment, which was showing higher incidence (21 % of MI and 3 % of HI). Analysis of result suggests that interfruit competition among the fruits growing at the same time leads to development of sinks of different strength. Such differences results in unequal distribution of nutrients to developing fruits which disturbs the physiology of fruit development leading to biochemical changes which ultimately leads to initiation of aril browning. Thus, this study provides evidence for the role of interfruit competition on development of the disorder.
Role of agronomic manipulations in modification of wheat microclimate under central Punjab
Authors: Sandhu Sarabjot Kaur , Dhaliwal L. K.
Published: January 2019

Wheat crop is influenced by different microclimatic parameters like solar radiation, canopy temperature etc. Agronomic manipulation like change in row spacing and row direction can be used as a strategy to modify the microclimate of crop. Keeping these facts in view, field trials were conducted during rabi 2012-13 and 2013-14 under two experiments in first experiment wheat varieties HD 2967, PBW 550 and PBW 343 were sown under three row spacing viz. 15 cm, 22.5 cm and 30 cm. In second experiment, wheat varieties HD 2967, PBW 550 and PBW 343 were sown under two row direction viz. North-South (N-S) and East-West (E-W). Short wave radiation interception and canopy temperature was recorded under different treatments at 15 days interval. Among different row spacing, short wave radiation interception and canopy temperature was maximum at 30 cm row spacing (77.7% and 25.1oC) followed by 22.5 cm (75.7% and 24.2oC) and 15 cm row spacing (73.9% and 23.2oC), whereas under row directions short wave radiation interception and canopy temperature was more (76.5% and 23.9oC) in E-W row direction as compared to N-S row direction (75% and 23.2oC). Relationships were developed between dry matter accumulation and canopy temperature. Polynomial relationships gave significant R2 value (0.66 & 0.69) under different treatments. This two year study indicated that agronomic manipulations play an important role in microclimate modification and canopy temperature significantly influence dry matter accumulation under different crop geometry.