bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Mineral Fertilizers to Flue-Cured Tobacco in the Iringa District of Tanzania
Authors: Akehurst B. C. , Sreedharan A.
Published: October 2008

Forty-one factorial experiments on rates and forms of the three major elements and rates of some minor and trace elements were carried out over the period 1954–1962 in Iringa, as part of a project to introduce Virginian-type tobacco varieties into the area. There were major responses to nitrogen and phosphate, and a close relationship between their effects, but no responses to other elements. Nitrogen raised yield, particularly in wet seasons, but generally tended to reduce quality, severely above 44 lb N per acre and at lower levels in dry years. Phosphate raised yield and quality, and in some instances crop failures occurred in its absence. Data suggested the optimal N : P2O5 ratio in fertilizer mixtures to be 1 : 15. Despite lack of response to potassium a small amount was recommended, to cover requirements for leaf characteristics which were not measured. The programme amply succeeded in its aim of establishing ‘average’ fertilizer recommendations, which were fundamentally sound, for the whole of the Iringa tobacco growing area. These recommendations are summarized.
Reclamation of Ancient Agricultural Soils in Wahidi, South Arabia
Authors: Hearn A. B. , Rijks D. A. , Wilcox D. E.
Published: October 2008

Where ancient agricultural sites are brought back into cultivation, using new forms of irrigation, cotton often grows badly in the first few seasons. A theory is developed to account for these failures, and it is shown that heavy irrigations before planting not only produce better crops but may also economise in water.
The Improvement of Small East African Zebu Cattle
Authors: Stobbs T. H.
Published: October 2008

A breeding programme involving the progeny testing of small East African Zebu cattle for improved growth rates is described and an assessment made of environmental and genetic improvements which have occurred over a ten-year period. Evidence is presented to justify continuing the programme, but suggestions are made to modify it in order to speed up the testing period and also to make more use of genetically superior stock.
Effects of Potassium Fertilizer on Peanuts in Israel
Authors: Hagin J. , Koyumjisky H.
Published: October 2008

Response to potassium fertilization was tested, over a two-year period, in 24 experimental fields, predominantly in coarse-textured soils. Only two fields showed significant yield increases. Potassium availability was estimated on the basis of (a) the free energy (ΔF) of potassium exchange for calcium and magnesium, (b) the proportion of potassium in total exchangeable cations, and (c) soluble potassium extraction in correlation with the potassium content of the plants. Woodruff's method (ΔF) yielded the best agreement (correlation coefficient r = 0·77). ΔF values showed a sufficient supply of available potassium, which may have accounted for the lack of response to fertilization.
Effects of seed size on oil content and Seedling Emergence in Safflower (Carthamus Tinctorius L.) Grown in the Sudan
Authors: El Saeed E. A. K.
Published: October 2008

An investigation was carried out in 1964 to determine the effect of seed size on oil content and seedling emergence in safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.). Small, medium and large seeds yielded 37·0, 36·6 and 35·7 per cent oil respectively, and this inverse relationship between seed size and oil percentage (r = −0·9635) was attributed to the increase in proportion of hull in large seeds. In a pot experiment, plants from large seeds emerged earlier than those from small seeds when sown at both 1 and 3 inches depth. Further, plants from large seeds had greater dry weights and leaf areas than the others. The same sort of correlation was also obtained between seed size and early emergence in a field experiment using small, medium and large seeds.
Assessing the Susceptibility of Local Citrus Species to Phytophthora Root Rot in Malaya
Authors: Wong T. K. , Varghese G.
Published: October 2008

Large scale destruction of mature mandarin orange groves due to root rot has occurred in Central Malaya. During the course of an investigation on the aetiology of this malady, Phytophthora nicotianae var. parasitica (Dast.) Waterhouse was isolated, and a test on the susceptibility of nine common citrus species to Phytophthora root rot was carried out by a modified water-culture inoculation technique. This appears to be an efficient and rapid screening method suitable for tropical conditions. The results showed that none of the species tested was resistant, although the degree of susceptibility varied significantly among species and between groups of species.
Effects of Tied Ridges, Terraces and Grass Leys on a Lateritic Soil in Kenya
Authors: Pereira H. C. , Hosegood P. H. , Dagg M.
Published: October 2008

In a study of soil and water conservation systems for high-altitude Kenya farming, control of accelerated erosion in two arable crops per year for six years was achieved by contour-ploughing and tied-ridging. The Kikuyu red loam latosol lay on 10 per cent and 12 per cent slopes under rainfall of intensities often exceeding 2 inches per hour. Soil structure measurements showed progressive reduction in the acceptance rate of rainfall, but gulley erosion occurred only in the absence of ties. Six years of intensive arable cultivations were compared with rotations having two, three or four years of perennial grass ley, with and without protection by Nichols terraces. Runoff, measured through Parshall flumes, was heaviest from well-established grass immediately after intensive grazing. Productivity was highest under grass. With a basal dressing of one hundred weight of double supers, 10 acres of Cynodon dactylon carried 20 Zebu steers for seven months without supplementation and showed a liveweight gain of 1·1 lb per steer per day. Grazing was reduced by failures in establishment of short legs. The grass depleted soil moisture to wilting point to a depth of ten feet within six months of planting and annually thereafter. Water use was approximately the same as total rainfall. Results, applicable locally, indicate a limit of four years duration for arable and a minimum of five years duration for pastures. Terraces can only be replaced by a high standard of management and skilled cultivation.
Observations on Natural Pollination in Commercial Plantings of Oil Palm (Elaeis Guineensis) in Malaya
Authors: Hardon J. J. , Turner P. D.
Published: October 2008

Most oil palm pollen is produced by male inflorescences 2–3 days after anthesis, and this pollen is the most viable. When protected, pollen viability on female inflorescences is good up to 6 days, after which it declines. The majority of the pollen remains below the canopy, especially at bunch level. Results of quantitative evaluation of pollen dispersal showed that atmospheric pollen density is very variable and is governed by numerous factors. There is a marked diurnal variation, with highest pollen density during the afternoon and a negligible amount during the night and early morning. Rain causes an immediate drop in concentration, but pollen densities were influenced more by the number of days on which rain was recorded than by total rainfall. A relationship exists between pollen density, the number of male inflorescences in the vicinity, and rainfall, but the effects of relative humidity, sunshine and wind are obscure. Whilst pollen density drops rapidly within a short distance from the inflorescence, there is a significant dispersal over greater distances than previously thought.
The Response of Sheep To a Thermal Burden Induced by Exercise
Authors: Taneja G. C. , Fuladi B. M.
Published: October 2008

Two groups of mature Marwari wethers were raced at 5 and to miles/hr respectively, for 30 minutes. Rectal temperature, respiratory frequency and pulse rate were measured initially, again immediately after the exercise, and subsequently four times at 20 minute interval. The rise in rectal temperature, respiratory rate and pulse rate in the animals raced at 10 miles/hr was 2·1°F, 86 and 22 counts/min. respectively. The corresponding values in the animals raced at 5 miles/hr were 0·9°F, 72 and 19 counts/min. The rise in rectal temperature due to stress was proportional to the degree of exercise. The magnitude of increase in the respiratory rate tended to be the same under both the treatments, and the trend in pulse rate was similar to that of respiratory rate.
The Effects of Fertilizers on Subtropical Hyparrhenia Veld in Swaziland
Authors: I'Ons J. H.
Published: October 2008

Veld dominated by Hyparrhenia and other species, in a sub-tropical 38-inch rainfall area in Swaziland, was changed into a more productive sward of Eragrostis curvula and other seral grasses by the application of nitrogen, phosphorus and lime. Nitrogen had the greatest effect in terms of both herbage production and ecological change, but responses were increased by the addition of phosphorus and lime. There were indications of yield responses to zinc in the presence of lime, and to molybdenum, but trace element effects were generally small and inconsistent.
A Device for Calculating Available-Water
Authors: Williams J. B.
Published: October 2008

Devices are described for calculating the available-water capacity of a soil from data on the characteristics of soil in each horizon.
Methods of Determining the Moisture Characteristics of Soils
Authors: Salter P. J.
Published: October 2008

Several methods of measuring and estimating the available-water capacity of soils with varying degrees of accuracy are described. The errors associated with the use of the different techniques on a wide range of soils have been calculated and suggestions are made regarding the choice of method for particular circumstances.
The Study of Variation in Crop Yields from Year to Year
Authors: Jackson J. E.
Published: October 2008

Methods of determining the causes of year-to-year variation in yield are discussed. The types of data required for valid analysis, the need to build up a logical argument, and the use of direct experimentation to verify conclusions drawn from regression analyses, are considered.
Experiments with Nitrogen and Magnesium Fertilizers on Coffee in Uganda
Authors: Stephens D.
Published: October 2008

Three experiments and five small trials on robusta coffee and four small trials on arabica coffee have confirmed that nitrogen is the main nutrient requirement in Uganda. Magnesium and sulphur were not deficient and mulching had no effect on responses to nitrogen fertilizers. Leaf and soil analyses confirm the yield results and indicate that the optimum time to apply nitrogen is in February and September. There was little difference between ammonium sulphate and urea, but the former tended to have greater effects on yields.
Identification of Genotypes of Coconut Palms Suitable for Breeding
Authors: Liyanage D. V.
Published: October 2008

The results are presented of a trial with coconuts, testing progeny of 104 unselected seed parents. The progenies of the best 5 per cent of the parents, selected on their phenotypic values, gave yields 14 per cent above the progeny population mean, indicating that mass selection is effective. There was considerable variation in breeding values between the palms tested, and a higher frequency of desirable genotypes could be isolated when the parents were selected on yield of copra rather than when they were taken at random. Prepotency in coconut palms is discussed. Leaf production of the young palms within a family, during the first 40 months of their growth, was correlated with the breeding value of the parent.
Use of Soil, Water and Leaf Analyses in Growing Oranges in Jordan
Authors: Allbrook R. F.
Published: October 2008

Soil, water and leaf analyses were carried out on samples from irrigated orchards in the Jordan Valley. Analysis of the soil for available phosphorus and potassium gave meaningful results. Analysis of the irrigation water showed that a high sodium and chloride content caused an increase of these ions in the soil, which led to undesirable effects such as chlorosis. Irrigation water class C3–S1 should only be used if there is an annual precipitation of about 300 mm. Leaf analysis showed changes in the composition of leaves with age, but only potassium varied significantly between varieties. Standards of leaf, soil and water composition are suggested for the growing of citrus.
Responses of Sugarcane to Supplementary Irrigation on Two Soils in Natal
Authors: Thompson G. D. , Gosnell J. M. , de Robillard P. J. M.
Published: October 2008

Supplementary irrigation experiments were conducted on a Clansthal sand and a Windermere clay. Irrigation treatments were based on the application of 1 inch of water when the soil moisture deficit reached 2·5, 3·5, 4·5 and 5·5 in. in 7 ft of soil on the sand, and 1·00, 1·75, 2·50 and 3·25 in. in 2 ft of soil on the clay. Each experiment included a dryland control and soil moisture was estimated weekly in each plot with a neutron probe. The results showed that there were significant linear increases in yield with increasing quantities of water applied. The crops exploited soil moisture to a depth of 6 ft in the sand and 3 ft in the clay, even with the maximum water treatments. Under dryland conditions, on the sand the crop exploited soil moisture to the wilting point only in the surface foot of soil, but on the clay the crop extracted moisture held at tensions greater than 15 bars in the top 3 ft of soil. The conclusions are that, where available water for supplementary irrigation is limited, heavy soils should be irrigated in preference to sandy soils, and that the most efficient use of both rainfall and irrigation water is achieved when 1 cusec is used to irrigate about 200 acres.
Dormancy of Paddy Seeds in Relation to Different Seed Treatments
Authors: Sikder H. P.
Published: October 2008

Dormancy of six varieties of paddy, of three maturity groups, was studied under six seed-treatments. One type showed no dormancy but others showed dormancy in varying degrees 15 days after harvest. Dormancy was completely broken either by removing the kernels from the glumes, or by puncturing the glumes, or by putting acid-treated seeds in an atmosphere saturated with oxygen. The germination percentages were also significantly increased when seeds were treated with N/10 sulphuric acid solution for four hours, or when seeds were put in atmospheres saturated with oxygen. Speed of germination did not improve, as in the case of seeds germinated after four months of harvest, except in cases where the kernels were removed from the glumes or the glumes were punctured. The causes of dormancy of rice seeds were assumed to reside in the flowing glumes (lemma and palea), and different seed-treatments improved the germination of rice seeds by increasing the permeability of the glumes to oxygen and/or reducing the resistance of the tough glume covers over the germinating embryos. The magnitude of the treatment effects differed with variety. These studies suggest methods of improving germination.
A Buyers' Market the Importance of Title and Summary
Authors: Jacks G. V.
Published: October 2008

There are now too many research papers on every subject for anybody to read. Authors should aim to ‘sell’ their papers to readers. Accessibility and readability are selling points. To get a paper read, pay special attention to the title and summary. Have an informative title which does not distract the reader with useless words and phrases; start it with the most significant phrase. Put a summary or abstract at the beginning, confine it to research results, and make it easily readable.
Responses of Cereals to Fertilizers in Northern Nigeria. II. Maize
Authors: Goldsworthy P. R.
Published: October 2008

Field trials in Northern Nigeria have shown that the yield of introduced varieties of maize can be economically improved with combinations of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer. Three response areas have been defined. In the south, where most of the maize is grown, the initial response is to nitrogen. Further north, with the exception of one small area in which the response is almost entirely to phosphorus, phosphorus and nitrogen and equal limiting factors. Estimates of the most profitable combinations of nitrogen and phosphorus to use in each area have been obtained from quadratic response surfaces fitted to the yield data of the experiments.
Nutrition of Zebu Cattle in Northern Nigeria 2. The Importance of Carotene Supplements
Authors: Miller T. B. , Iduma L. E.
Published: October 2008

The importance of carotene supplements in the feeding of White Fulani Zebu cattle has been studied in three experiments. The live weight gains of heifers, with and without carotene on two planes of nutrition, showed 0·2 lb/head/day gain on the ‘high’ plane, but the ‘low’ plane group did not respond to carotene supplement. The association between cottonseed feeding and vitamin A deficiency, studied by comparing the rates of depletion of heifer calves on cottonseed supplements and on a sorghum/groundnut mixture, indicated that cottonseed can enhance the rate of carotene/vitamin A depletion in the liver. Carotene supplements equivalent to 2 oz red palm oil, to cows before and after calving failed to improve the vitamin A potency of milk. The total daily secretion of carotene and vitamin A in the milk was insufficient to maintain adequate liver stores in a suckled calf.
Breeding Performance of Dorset Horn Ewes Augmented by Hormonal Treatment
Authors: Newton J. E. , Betts J. E.
Published: October 2008

Thirty Dorset Horn ewes were put to the ram four times in two years; four ewes lambed four times to produce 22 lambs, and 21 ewes lambed three times, producing 100 lambs with satisfactory birthweights. The minimum interval from parturition to conception was 32 days and there was no decline in the liveweight of the ewes. Another 37 ewes were run with a teaser ram from 1 January to 1 August 1964 (when it was replaced by a fertile ram) and from 15 April to 31 August 1965 when it was again replaced by a fertile ram. There was a marked decline in oestrual activity in Flock 2 from the middle of March until the middle of July.
The Sulphur Content of Nigerian Manures
Authors: Oke O. L.
Published: October 2008

Faeces of different birds and animals were analysed for sulphur and nitrogen. Chick faeces contained the highest amount of sulphur while farmyard manure gave the highest value for mineralized S after incubation. There was a high degree of correlation between the total S and total N.
A Multifactorial Investigation of the Plant/Soil/Water Relations of Radishes
Authors: Hafeez A. T. Abdel
Published: October 2008

The relations between plants and their water supplies are complex and there is no uniquely critical soil water deficit (i.e. no unique stage in the drying cycle at which growth and/or commercial yield begins to be significantly affected by increasing dryness of the soil). Evidence is presented that different deficits are ‘critical’ according to the type and depth of the soil, and the adequacy of nutritional supplies.
Leaf Analysis as a Diagnostic Method and Advisory Aid in Crop Nutrition
Authors: Bould C.
Published: October 2008

The general principles of leaf analysis as a diagnostic method and as a guide to plant nutritional status are outlined and discussed. Factors, other than nutrient supply, that affect leaf composition are mentioned and methods of leaf sampling, preparation and storage are described. The practical application of leaf analysis to fruit, flower, vegetable, tree and miscellaneous economic crops is reviewed and suggestions are made for its use as an advisory aid.
Fertilizer Trials on Cotton and Other Annual Crops on Small Farms in Uganda
Authors: Stephens D.
Published: October 2008

In 1963 and 1964 a total of 290 cotton trials, 78 groundnut trials and 51 finger millet trials were conducted on small farms in Uganda to determine the effects and profitability of applying ammonium sulphate and single superphosphate under local conditions. The organization and methods of these trials are described and their results discussed. Ammonium sulphate gave highly significant increases in millet and cotton yields, whilst superphosphate produced similar results on groundnuts but was less effective on cotton and unprofitable on millet. Recommendations are made for groundnuts and millet, but a further season's results are thought necessary before recommending fertilizer treatments for cotton. Soil and leaf samples were taken from the trials and analysed, and relevant agronomic field data were recorded. The correlations of these factors with trial yields and responses are discussed. In general, soil and leaf analyses have been disappointing in assessing responses to fertilizers, but these responses tend to be greater where better farming is practised.
Comparison of Ground Cover Plants during Establishment of Cocoa on Clear-Felled Land in Ghana
Authors: Opoku A. A. , Jordan D.
Published: October 2008

Cocoa was used as a test crop to compare the use of nine plant species and natural regeneration as ground covers in plantations. The nine species were Tephrosia hookeriana and villosa mixtures, Indigofera sumatrana, Flemingia congesta, Desmodium asperum, Cassia tora, Indigofera spicata, Crotalaria longithyrsa, Mimosa invisa, and Tithonia diversifolia. F. congesta and T. diversifolia gave the best and most persistent ground cover. Significant differences appeared in the effects of the covers on cocoa jorquetting, heights of jorquette, stem diameter and yields. T. diversifolia retarded cocoa development (to as low as 34% of control) while the others appeared to improve it. Yields in plots of Tephrosia mixture, I. sumatrana, and F. congesta were respectively 72, 59 and 54 per cent higher than under natural regeneration.
The Relation Between Yield and Date of Heading of Nigerian Sorghums
Authors: Curtis D. L.
Published: October 2008

Four standard Nigerian varieties of sorghum were grown in trials together with local varieties representative of sorghums from each of the five main ecological zones. Analysis of the data showed a relation within each zone between mean yield and time of heading. When the standard varieties and the local varieties flowered simultaneously, yields were similar. When the standard varieties flowered later—or in some cases earlier—than the local varieties, the local varieties out-yielded them.
Effects of Spacing, Nitrogen and Hormone Treatment on Pineapple in Swaziland
Authors: Dodson P. G. C.
Published: October 2008

Plant populations, nitrogen levels and the use of alpha naphthalene acetic acid (ANA) to rein-force natural flower differentiation were compared in a field experiment at Malkerns in the Swaziland Middleveld. Yield was raised by increasing plant population above 17,000 plants per acre, but reached a maximum at 23,000 plants per acre. Increased yield from denser planting occurred at the expense of fruit size and fruit set, and of sucker and slip production. Hormone counteracted the depressing effect of denser planting on fruit set and denser planting reduced sunburn damage and raised fruit acidity. 400 lb N per acre per crop increased yield over 200 lb N by increasing fruit size in the mother crop, and by increasing fruit size and set in the ratoon. Added nitrogen markedly reduced fruit acidity. ANA improved fruit set and therefore yield, without detrimental effects on fruit shape or quality. There are grounds for small increases in population above 17,000 plants per acre, for the use of ANA to reinforce natural flower differentiation and for the cautious use of the higher level of nitrogen fertilization.
Analysis of a Uniformity Trial on Cassava
Authors: Afonja Biyi
Published: October 2008

The analysis of a uniformity trial on cassava is briefly discussed, mentioning possible effects of plant losses on the methods of analysis. Two methods of calculating comparable variances, on a per plant and per unit area basis, gave very high values for the index of heterogeneity, with a mean of 0·94. When the ratio of overall cost per plot to cost per unit area lies between one and two, an optimum plot size of between 16 and 32 plants is obtained. The comparable plot sizes would range from 192 to 385 sq. ft and give a coefficient of variation less than twenty.
Experiments on Mulching Sisal with Black Polythene in Tanganyika
Authors: Hopkinson D.
Published: October 2008

Experiments in bulbil nurseries and field sisal were carried out in N.E. Tanganyika, 5°S, 39°E, 200 m. above sea level, at a mean annual rainfall of 1160 mm., on deep red loam. The discussion covers the establishment of sisal through a polythene mulch, the control of weed growth, the persistence of polythene of different thicknesses and from different sources, and some effects on growth of the sisal and on soil properties. A mulch of black polythene improved the growth of bulbil nurseries by 30 per cent or more, due to conservation of soil moisture and elimination of weed competition and disturbance associated with the removal of weeds by hoeing. For nurseries 150-gauge material was preferred, but there were important differences in the persistence of material purchased from two sources. Where black polythene is used in a nursery the density can be increased from 80,000 to 110,000 plants per hectare, to help offset the high cost of the material. A mulch of 250-g. black polythene controlled weeds in field sisal but did not improve growth.
Estimation of Changes in the Water Status of Soils under Field Conditions from the Attenuation of β-Radiation by Water held in Absorbent Nylon Pads
Authors: Newbould P. , Mercer E. R. , Lay P. M.
Published: October 2008

A procedure is described in which variation in the attenuation of β-radiation by water held in nylon pads is used to show changes in the water content of soil. The method enables sequential measurements to be made in narrow zones of soil under field conditions; the results are not influenced by the presence of soluble salts.
The Component Analysis Approach to the Interpretation of Plant Analysis Data from Groundnuts and Sugar Cane
Authors: Holland D. A.
Published: October 2008

Component analysis was applied to the interpretation of (a) leaf analyses from six similar groundnut fertilizer trials, and (b) the chemical composition of different parts (root, stem and successive leaves) of the sugar cane plant. For each of the groundnut trials it was found that approximately 60 per cent of the total variation in N, P, K, and Ca could be accounted for by two independent linear functions of the elements, representing the balance of N and K with Ca and the balance of N with P and K. The second of these functions was consistently affected by phosphorus applications. Yield was related to one or other function, according to trial, but never to them both. Throughout the sugar cane plant the elements N, P, K, Ca, and Mg were found to be distributed between the roots and the aerial parts, and between active photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic tissues. In both cases the result was a reasonable and consistent simplification of a considerable body of data, such as had not resulted from a series of univariate analyses of variance.
A Rapid Fluorescent-dye Technique for Measuring Root Length
Authors: McGowan M. , Armstrong M. J. , Corrie J. A.
Published: October 2008

A fluorescent-dye technique has been developed to measure root length of field crops. Roots are washed from soil samples, stained for about 30 min in a solution of fluorescein diacetate in acetone, washed, spread out on a tension table and photographed under UV light. Lengths of fluorescent roots recorded on the photograph are estimated by line intersection. The method is quick, simple, inexpensive and largely eliminates the usual time-consuming, tedious process of hand-sorting live roots from organic debris. Whereas all the roots of young laboratory-grown plants take up the dye, some older roots of field-grown crops do not fluoresce. Data indicate that the method may also give information on root diameter.
Effects of Spacing and Nitrogen Fertilizer on ‘Pusa Sawani’ Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha G. K.
Published: October 2008

A two year study on ‘Pusa Sawani’ okra grown during the summer in Rampur, Nepal (228 m OD; 27° 37′ N) has shown that spacing did not affect days to first harvest or pod length but that pod number plant−1 was affected significantly. Although individual plant yields at each harvest were maximum viith plants spaced 45 cm apart (a population of about 50,000 plants ha−1) pod yields ha−1 were maximum with plants spaced only 15 cm apart (about 150,000 ha−1). Applications of nitrogen fertilizer hastened the first harvest by 4–6 days compared to the unfertilized control plots. The greatest pod yield (9.3 t ha−1) was obtained from plots given 60 kg N ha−1.
Intercropping of Sorghum or Maize with Cowpeas or Common Beans under Two Fertility Regimes in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Faris M. A. , Burity H. A. , Dos Reis O. V. , Mafra R. C.
Published: October 2008

Experiments in Brazil have shown that a sorghum-pulse (cowpea or common bean) intercrop system yielded more grain than the monocrop system and produced a Land Equivalent Ratio (LER) greater than 1.00 even though rainfall was limited. Sorghum competed less than maize with the associated pulse when Competitive Ratios (CR) were considered. In cowpeas, CR values were correlated positively with the number of pods and seeds plant−1. The two crops in the intercrop systems were responsive to fertilizer application. Thus, improved management (i.e. fertilizer usage) was appropriate without the loss of the advantageous effects realized from intercropping.
Farming Systems Research in India: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Kanwar J. S. , Virmani S. M. , Das S. K.
Published: October 2008

This review gives a historical perspective of the development of Farming Systems Research (FSR) in India over the past 60 years, as India changed from a traditional, subsistence oriented agriculture to one based on science and technology. The first period relates to the years 1930–50, when the Government of India created the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and initiated research on dryland agriculture.

The second period relates to the development of coordinated agronomic trials and simple fertilizer experiments on farmers' fields during the years 1950–65. This development was a forerunner of networks of coordinated applied agronomic research relevant to farmers' cropping systems and adaptive research with farmers' participation. The development of a soil conservation research network in the same period strengthened research on the natural resource base countrywide. The third period started with the reorganization of ICAR, the establishment of State Agricultural Universities and the introduction of coordinated research programmes on high-yielding varieties (HYVs). At the same time the coordinated dryland agricultural research programmes, and subsequently the Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture (CRIDA), were established, leading to the development of a national system of FSR for rainfed agriculture.

The fourth period of FSR started with the establishment in 1972 of ICRISAT, an international agricultural research centre that accepted FSR as its mandate and developed the concept of integrating the management technologies for various components of climate, soil, water and crops with a farmers' perspective. ICRISAT's work was complementary to that of CRIDA and helped to bring about conceptual changes in Indian FSR through research aimed at understanding principles and processes of semi-arid tropical (SAT) farming systems. Following this, mechanisms for strengthening on-farm research were emphasized so as to provide stronger linkages between researchers, extension workers and farmers.

Today, FSR with a farmers' perspective occupies pride of place in India's agricultural research agenda. Yet it is a long way from bridging the gap between the generation of technology and its adoption by farmers, who have shown a preference for its components rather than for the full package of technology.
Farmer Experimentation as a Basis for Cropping Systems Research: A Case Study Involving True Potato Seed
Authors: Potts M. J. , Watson Greta A. , Sinung-Basuki R. , Gunadi N.
Published: October 2008

The radical concept of potato production from true potato seed (TPS) was adopted as a component of their farming system within three seasons by 23 farmers from Cibodas, West Java. The farmers showed an ability to conceptualize and experiment and desired concepts from which they could develop, through research, appropriate principles and field techniques. Information received solely as detailed practices or techniques hindered their progress, since they first needed to repeat the technique in order to understand the concepts and principles involved. Farmer experimentation resembled closely that of experimental station researchers, with the use of replication in space, often neighbouring farmers' plots, and time. Initial experiments covered a wide range of factors but within three seasons farmers had identified similar areas of concern which coincided with those of experiment station researchers worldwide. Farmer experimentation and the role of the researcher in this methodology for technology development are discussed.
On-farm Development of Potato Production from True Seed in Indonesia
Authors: Gunadi N. , Potts M. J. , Sinung-Basuki R. , Watson Greta A.
Published: October 2008

Three seasons of on-farm experimentation to develop potato production from botanical or true potato seed (TPS) under cool fertile conditions in West Java, Indonesia, are described. Twenty-three farmers experimented with two production systems: use of transplants, and use of seedling tubers produced in nursery beds. There was little yield difference between the systems, but an apparent progeny × system × season interaction was observed. All progenies were more resistant to late blight than the present cultivars grown from tubers. Appropriate matching of progeny and system gave seed of comparable quality with, but total yields slightly less than, certified imported seed of cv. Granola. Ware quality was slightly better than that of cv. Granola. Production costs were markedly less than for a tuber crop, making TPS ideal for small, resource-poor farmers.
Response of Cowpea Cultivars to Planting Pattern and Date of Sowing in Intercrops with Pearl Millet in Niger
Authors: Ntare Bonny R. , Williams J. H.
Published: October 2008

A two-year study was conducted at two locations in Niger to compare the response of five cowpea cultivars to two planting patterns and two sowing dates relative to the sowing date of pearl millet. All the cowpea cultivars took less time to mature when planted three weeks after millet than when sown one week after. Early-maturing cowpea cultivars had the smallest yield, whereas the yield of the local indeterminate cultivar was nearly double that of the other cultivars at both dates of sowing. Early planting of cowpea significantly depressed millet yield, but when cowpea was planted late millet yields approached those of the sole crop. The local cultivar depressed millet yields more than the other cowpea cultivars. Planting pattern had no significant effect on the yield of either cowpea or millet. Cowpea yield was reduced by more than 50% by two weeks delay in sowing, confirming that the sowing date of cowpea relative to millet is a critical factor in the Sahelian pearl millet/cowpea intercropping system. There were marked differences in the effect of cowpea cultivar on millet yield but these differences were consistent over sowing dates.
Conserving the Organic Matter Content of the Soil to Sustain Sugarcane Yield
Authors: Yadav R. L. , Prasad S. R.
Published: October 2008

In two field experiments conducted over five successive sugarcane crops (including four ratoon crops), yield decline was associated with a decrease in the organic carbon content of the soil. Reduction in cane yield was minimized by the combined application of farmyard manure and urea, which resulted in an increase in soil organic carbon of 0.023% over the initial status within five years. Incorporation of farm waste materials such as cane trash, rice straw and legume husk into the soil before cane planting also increased the soil organic carbon content. Maximum benefits, however, were produced by the incorporation of legume husk with 150 kg N ha−1. A judicious mixture of chemical fertilizer and organic manures is therefore suggested as a means of sustaining the productivity of sugarcane.
Fertilizer Trials with Sprayed and Unsprayed Cotton in Nigeria
Authors: Palmer J. L. , Goldsworthy P. R.
Published: October 2008

The responses of sprayed and unsprayed cotton to ammonium sulphate and single superphosphate at o, 125, and 250 kg./ha. were tested between 1959 and 1964, in three zones of Nigeria. Seed cotton yields of sprayed trials with both fertilizers at 0 and 250 kg./ha. averaged 534 and 768 kg. ha.−1 respectively with significant and positive linear response components in all zones, but significant negative quadratic responses to phosphate in the north and to nitrogen in the south, with a significant interaction in the south. Seed cotton yields of unsprayed trials with both fertilizers at 0 and 250 kg./ha. averaged 305 and 384 kg./ha. respectively with significant positive linear responses to phosphate in the north, to nitrogen in the south and to both in the east and no interactions.
Leaching Loss of Nitrogen in Submerged Rice Cultivation
Authors: Pande H. K. , Adak N. K.
Published: October 2008

Nitrogen was lost through leaching, both asand, even after application of the ammoniacal form in a reduced soil zone. Under saturation the loss was more through, and under submergence throughnitrogen. The loss was accelerated when all the nitrogen was applied at one time at the early stage of crop growth. Application at transplanting proved unproductive. Three split application at active vegetative, reproductive and ripening phases helped to give maximum responses in both alluvial clay and lateritic sandy clay loam soil.
The Climatic Requirements of the Tea Plant: A Review
Authors: Carr M. K. V.
Published: October 2008

Research and observations on how climate effects the growth and yield of the tea plant are reviewed. Despite differences in the types of tea grown and the cultural techniques practiced in the different tea areas, an attempt is made to define quantitatively the climatic conditions needed to maintain growth rates at a high level. The need for critical work in the future is emphasized.
Growth and Productivity of Tapioca (Manihot utilissma) III. Crop Ratio, Spacing and Yield
Authors: Williams C. N.
Published: October 2008

High yield in the tapioca varieties studied appears to be associated with sink activity of the tubers and consequently with crop index. Growth measurements indicate that assimilation is significantly affected by sink activity as well as by the functioning of the assimilation apparatus. The form of the crop growth curve, and the effect of spacing on yield and distribution of dry matter are also considered.
Effect of Varying Plant Density on a Tillering Variety of Maize
Authors: Downey Lloyd A.
Published: October 2008

Results from an experiment with maize (variety NEH 1151) at three plant densities indicated that normally favourable environmental conditions promoted tillering and it was difficult to maintain the desired tiller densities. The higher densities produced more vegetative dry matter but less grain than the lower densities. In a second experiment, where tillers were removed from the plants, there was no advantage because the remaining tillers grew larger to compensate for the removal. It is concluded that it is desirable to breed or select for non-tillering varieties where other management parameters can be controlled.
Natural Cross-Fertilization in Sesame Under Sudan Conditions
Authors: Khidir M. Osman
Published: October 2008

The extent of natural cross-fertilization in sesame was studied in two varieties, with contrasting flower colour, planted at two locations; in alternate rows or alternate holes; in adjacent or non-contiguous plots; and at 6 different spacings. The average out-crossing for the different treatments ranged between 3.1 and 6.7 per cent. The non-contiguous plots showed a higher degree of out-crossing than adjacent plots, in which there was a decrease in the extent of cross-pollination with increase in the distance between the dominant and the recessive parents. Alternate holes gave a higher percentage than alternate rows.
Effect of Direction and Distance on Cross Pollination in Egyptian Cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.)
Authors: Galal Hassan E. , Abou-El-Fittouh H. A. , Morshed Gadd
Published: October 2008

The effect on cross pollination of four directions and six distances from the marker variety in Egyptian cotton was investigated. The percentage of cross pollination did not differ appreciably in the different directions but there were significant differences in cross fertilization among the six distances. A linear relation was observed between cross pollination per cent and distance up to 8.8 m. from the marker variety. Implications of these findings on various aspects of cotton breeding methodology are discussed.
Effect of Gamma BHC Against Capsids on Cocoa in Ghana
Authors: Ali Faisal M.
Published: October 2008

Effects of Gamma BHC in controlling capsids on cocoa in a large-scale experiment have been assessed at 10 and 12 sites, over seven seasons, in the Eastern and Ashanti regions of Ghana. The treatments effect was not significant for the whole Eastern region, whereas it was for the Ashanti region except in the first season. For the Ashanti region the overall treatment and seasons effects were very highly significant, whereas their interaction was not. There was an increase in response with time, though the rate of response was decreasing with time.
Effects of Pre-sowing High Temperature Stress on Seedling Emergence and Yield of Seed Cotton
Authors: Khan Riaz A. , Ahmad S. , Hussain S.
Published: October 2008

The seed of American Cotton, Var. 134, was stressed at 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90°C for 24 or 48 hours before seeding. Stresses at 50 to 70°C had a stimulatory effect on seedling emergence and subsequent performance of the cotton plants, but higher temperatures caused thermal injury or killed the seed.
Decline in Fertility Status of a Tropical Forest Ochrosol Under Continuous Cropping
Authors: Ofori C. S.
Published: October 2008

Crop yield on continuously cultivated tropical forest soil was maintained at a fairly high level by the application of mineral fertilizer. Although the low rate of nitrogen applied as ammonium sulphate did not increase yield, there was a significant effect on pH of the soil resulting in a reduction of the divalent cations on the exchange complex. The effect of mulch was mainly chemical through the release of nutrients.
Heterosis in Crosses of Theobroma cacao
Authors: Atanda O. A.
Published: October 2008

This paper reports the heterotic pod production of three different crosses between a Nigerian local selection (N38) and three Trinidad Introductions (CF47, CF56 and CF207). The hybrids consistently outyielded the inbreds throughout the first 19 years of pod production. N38 × CF56 hybrid produced the highest number of pods per tree, closely followed by N38 × CF47 hybrid; while N38 × CF47 hybrid showed the best heterotic response. Pod production figures of (CD207)2 and (CD302)2, both double inbreds of N38, support the hypothesis that N38 is a Trinitario × local selection hybrid which segregate for pod production.
Effects of Ghanaian Cocoa Swollen-shoot Virus on Young Bearing Trees of a Range of Varieties
Authors: Lockwood G.
Published: October 2008

Four-year-old seedlings of twenty-eight hybrid progenies were infected with the Ghanaian swollen-shoot virus strain A, but all were too severely affected to be of practical value in combating the disease. Sensitivity was assessed by comparison with uninoculated controls; reduction in crop and in growth and deterioration of canopy were correlated. The Amelonado × Amazon crosses were no more sensitive than the better inter-Amazon progenies. The rapid decline of the infected trees may have been partly due to infection coinciding with the slowing down of vegetative growth as cropping commenced.
Water Requirements of Wheat and Cotton on a High Water-table Soil under Arid Conditions
Authors: Khan Riaz A. , Ahmad S. , Sharar M. S.
Published: October 2008

The effects of irrigation on the yields of wheat and cotton were studied on a sandy clay loam soil, with a water-table at 7 ft below ground, under the arid conditions of Lyallpur. The conventional practice of providing 19-acre in. of water to Mexican wheat and 25-acre in. to American cotton proved to be a wasteful and unproductive practice on such soils. High yields of both these crops could be obtained without any subsequent watering after an initial 4-in. irrigation applied for seedbed preparation and sowing, while one 3-in. irrigation after sowing was needed to obtain maximum yields.
Cultivars, Fertilizers, Crop Protection and Economics of Carrot Production in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Green J. H.
Published: October 2008

Comparison of up to ten carrot cultivars at various sites in a three-year period did not show that any cultivar consistently outyielded the others. Investigations at Samaru between 1969 and 1971 indicated that application of 100 kg. of N was beneficial, response to P was not consistent and there was no response to K or trace elements. Economics of production by peasant farmers is discussed and conclusions drawn that irrigated carrots, grown in the dry season, could be very profitable. No successful control was found for blight (Alternaria dauci) which severely inhibits the production of a wet season crop.
Effect of Time and Rate of Application on Uptake of Fertilizer by Wheat
Authors: Hamid A.
Published: October 2008

The efficiency of fertilizer N uptake by wheat, as affected by time and rate of application, was studied in the field using N15 labelled ammonium nitrate. Splitting the application was only beneficial at the maximum rate but two top dressings at tillering and boot stage were better for grain production than a basal dressing or single top dressing at stem extension stage, but uptake of fertilizer N was maximal from a single top dressing. The calculated effective rate of application (E.R.A.) was useful in evaluating the effect of time and rate of application and N availability to plants.
Size and Shape of Plots for Estimating Yield Losses from Cereal Foliage Diseases
Authors: James W. C. , Shih C. S.
Published: October 2008

Data from uniformity trials on healthy and diseased wheat and oat crops showed that the coefficient of variation for yield decreased as plot size increased and became nearer to square in shape. Infection with Septoria leaf blotch of oats and powdery mildew of wheat did not appear to affect yield variability. Plots larger than rod row size (where 16 ft of the centre row of 3 rows is harvested) are recommended to detect differences of 10 per cent in yield between two treatments.
Effects of Roguing on Yield and Smut of Sugarcane
Authors: James G. L.
Published: October 2008

Sugarcane yields and smut incidence levels were observed in three successive crops. The effect of pathogen upon host was primarily one of stress, as smut infection was shown to increase sucrose content of cane whilst depressing yields in tonnes of cane per ha. Where infection levels were high, roguing was shown to increase disease incidence. However, smut whip removal was confirmed as the best roguing treatment for commercial fields. Disease control and yield responses related to roguing effort were much better in NCo 376 than NCo 310; and, therefore, continued cultivation of NCo 310 fields with high smut incidence was concluded to be a major hazard to the industry.