bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardization of plant species and growing medium for vertical garden system: A new urban horticulture concept
Authors: Kumar Ramesh
Published: August 2023

Vertical gardens are becoming a common component in contemporary garden designs at urban living space because of shrinking land spaces. Successful growing of plants in vertical garden systems depends up on growing container, plants chosen, growing media, etc. Hence a study was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Annamalai University, during the year 2013, with the objectives to study the influence of Coir pith, Stockosorb and Geohumus as components of growing media along with FYM, Vermicompost and Leaf mould compost on growth and performance of ornamental plants for establishment of vertical garden and to study the performance of ornamental plants Viz., Philodendron erubescens Cv. ‘Gold’, Chlorophytum comosum Cv. ‘Variegatum’ and Polyscias fruticosa plants in wooden containers for establishment of vertical garden. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design in wooden containers, with ten treatment combinations of various growing media mixtures comprising red soil, river sand as basic components in combination with organic manures (FYM, vermicompost, leaf mould compost, coir pith) and hydrogels (Stocksorb and Geohumus). The plant growth characters and ornamental value index were observed. Among the three ornamental plants used, Polyscias fruticosa and Philodendron erubescens are performed better as ornamental plants in vertical garden system with the growing media of Red soil : River sand : Vermicompost @ 1:1:1/2 + Stockosorb(25g).
Evaluation of ornamental sunflower for value addition
Authors: Naik Kirtimala B , Nataraj S K , Kumar D P , Shadakshari Y G , Seetharamu G K , Veugopalan R , Jayaprasad K V
Published: August 2023

An experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, GKVK, campus, Bengaluru, UHS, Bagalkot during 2012-13 to study the suitability of ornamental sunflower for dry flower production. Highest flower weight loss was with corn meal and silica gel (90.75 and 88.45 per cent). Silica gel followed by borax powder took least number of days for drying of flower heads (9.40 and 12.60 days respectively). Colour retention in dried ornamental sunflower was highest with control treatment and silica gel with a score of 4.63 and 4.44. Flower appearance was best with silica gel (4.44) which was at par with control with a score of 3.81. Best texture score of (4.31) was highest with silica gel followed by control (shade), corn meal and alum powder which recorded 3.63, 3.31 and 3.25 respectively. Best flower shape after drying period as with silica gel (4.38).The results reveal silica gel and corn meal as best drying agents in ornamental sunflower.
Morphological characterization and genetic barcoding of kuttiatoor mango accessions
Authors: Dinesh M R , Ravishankar K V , Sunil Gowda D C , Sankaran M
Published: August 2023

A survey conducted during 2013-14 to collect and characterize the Kuttiattoor mango accessions from Kerala, revealed large unique variability in morphological, biochemical and DNA barcode data. All the accessions were polyembryonic with fruit maturity during February-March. The mature fruit length (cm), width (cm) and leaf length (cm) ranged from 5.10 – 9.60 (cm), 4.60 – 8.40 (cm) and 12.47- 30.40 (cm) respectively.
Light trap, an effective component of integrated management of Tuta absoluta(Lepidoptera : Gelechiidae) on Tomato
Authors: Sridhar V , Senthil Kumaran G
Published: August 2023

The effectiveness of mass trapping the moths of Tuta absoluta was evaluated using light traps in tomato polyhouse at ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru during March - June, 2018. Various colours of light sources were evaluated for their efficacy in attracting the moths. Of different coloured light sources evaluated, yellow and white (bluish) were found relatively effective for attraction of the moths. The efficacy of mass trapping was further evaluated and incandescent yellow bulb of 60 W was found most efficient in attracting both sexes of Tuta moths. Thus light traps can be an effective tool for IPM of this pest on tomato, under polyhouse conditions.
Diversified experimentation in horticulture
Authors: Hanur Vageeshbabu S
Published: August 2023

This issue yet again marks a compendium of articles on diverse crops and aspects in horticulture. This multifariousness or the absence of monotony is indeed a mark of dynamism in science experimentation, especially and specially in the field of horticulture.
Genetic variability, correlation and path analysis in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol. Standl.) germplasm
Authors: Varalakshmi B , Pitchaimuthu M , Rao E Sreenivas
Published: August 2023

The present investigation was conducted to determine the variability, heritability, genetic advance and correlation of fruit yield and ten different yield contributing characters in bottle gourd. Wide range of variation was observed for most of the characters like fruit yield/vine, fruit number/vine, fruit weight, fruit yield/ha and node number for first female flower appearance. Phenotypic coefficient of variation was higher than genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits studied, indicating environmental influence on expression of these characters. However, high heritability (broad sense) along with high genetic advance was recorded by vinelength, branch number, fruit length, fruit width, fruit yield/vine and yield/ha indicating the presence of additive gene effects, hence selection can be employed for the improvement of these parameters. Fruit yield/ ha was significantly and positively associated with fruit number/vine and fruit yield/vine both at genotypic as well as phenotypic levels. Fruit number had maximum direct effect (0.812) on fruit yield/ha followed by fruit weight (0.407), fruit length (0.339), fruit width (0.310), fruit yield/vine (0.249), days taken for first female flower appearance (0.224) and vine length (0.173). Therefore for the yield improvement in bottle gourd, emphasismay be given for indirect selection through fruit parameters like fruit weight, fruit length, fruit number and fruit yield/vine.
Effect of post harvest ripening on bioactive secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity in mango cv. Amrapali
Authors: Muralidhara B M , Veena G L , Rajan S , Bhattacherjee A K , Malav Pavan Kumar
Published: August 2023

Mango possesses many bioactive phytonutrients at ripe stage which boost our immune systemagainst many diseases. Post harvest ripening plays a major role in changes in those bioactivephytochemicals and their antioxidant activity. Hence, the present study was undertaken toassess the changes in bioactive phytonutrients and total antioxidant activity during ripeningof mango cv. Amrapali. The fruits were analyzed for total antioxidants, total phenols, totalflavonoids and total carotenoids from the day of harvest to its deterioration. Fruit peel andpulp color was measured with SPH850 spectrophotometer on the basis of the CIE LAB colorsystem (L*, a* and b*). The results revealed that total phenols (36.11 to 66.53mg GAE 100g-1),total flavonoids (14.33 to 34.67mg QE 100g-1), total carotenoids (2.23 to 11.47mg 100g-1) andtotal antioxidant (0.37 to 0.76 mmol Trolox 100g-1) activity increased gradually from day one toninth day after harvest and decreased slightly thereafter up to eleventh day of harvest excepttotal carotenoids, which remained constant. Strong correlations between total phenols (0.94),total flavonoids (0.86) and total carotenoids (0.97) with total antioxidant activity were noticed.Positive relationship between total carotenoids and L*, a*, b* values in mango peel and pulpduring ripening was also observed. It can be concluded that ripening affected the compositionof bioactive phytonutrients and their antioxidant activity in mango andmaximum nutraceuticalscontents were noticed from seven to nine days after harvest.
Screening of probiotic strains for development of ready- to -serve probioticated mango beverage
Authors: Ranjitha K , Oberoi Harinder Singh , Upreti K K , Redappa K
Published: August 2023

Out of the thirteen probiotic strains procured from different sources or isolated from the commercially available sachets, seven isolates showed growth in the ready to serve (RTS) mango beverage. Among the seven strains, only three strains, i.e., Lactobacillus helveticus MTCC 5463, L. rhamnosus MTCC 5946 and Saccharomyces boulardii showed significant growth in the mango beverage. These three strains were further evaluated for population build-up, physico-chemical and sensory evaluation parameters in the fermented mango beverage. Based on the results of sensory scores, minimum threshold population required for classification as probioticated beverage and physico-chemical characteristics, L. helveticus was used for probiotication of the RTS mango beverage. Mango beverage fermented with L. helveticus MTCC 5463 showed an average score of 7.34 on a hedonic scale of 9 for overall acceptability, had an acidity of 0.29%, sugar concentration of 7.6% and pH of 4.4. Probioticated mango beverage also had about 20 and 13% higher phenolics and flavonoids, respectively, compared to uninoculated RTS mango beverage. This study has shown that the RTS mango beverage inoculated with L. helveticus MTCC 5463 has potential for developing probioticated mangobeverage.
Variation in the Interactions among soil K+, Ca++, Mg++ and Na+ ions as influenced by the variety and rootstock in grape
Authors: Shikhamany S D , Kalbhor J N , Shelke T S , Mungare T S
Published: August 2023

A nutritional survey was conducted to study the influence of variety and rootstock on interactionamong K+, Ca++, Mg++and Na+ ions in grape during 2012-14. Soil cation contents did not correlatewith their respective contents in petioles indicating a strong antagonism among them. Quadraticrelationship of soil cations with the absorption (ratio of petiole content to soil content) of otherions revealed that the antagonism among cations was observed in case of soil K+ with Ca++ andNa+ absorption on 110R and Dog Ridge rootstocks, soil Ca+ with K+ and Mg++ and Na+ in Sonakavariety and Na+ in own rooted vines, soil Mg++ with Ca++ and Na+ also in own rooted vines; andNa++ with Ca++ and Mg++ respectively in 2A clone and Dog Ridge. Contrarily, increased absorptionof K+ by soil Ca++ on 110R, Na+ and K+ by soil Mg++ respectively in Sonaka and 110R, and Ca++by soil Na+ on Dog Ridge was also observed. All the soil cations together influenced K+ absorptionmost in Sonaka followed by Mg++ absorption in 2A clone, but Ca++ absorption on Dog Ridgefollowed by K+ on 110R.
Development of moringa infusion for green tea and its evaluation
Authors: Kumar Pushpa Chethan , Azeez Shamina , Roy T K
Published: August 2023

Moringa oleifera leaves are known for its high nutritional quality. Its leaves are commonlyused for culinary purposes and it was explored as a potential nutraceutical in recent decades.Tea or herbal infusions have become an integral part of daily diet for a population who concernedabout a healthy lifestyle. Many herbs or plant parts have been used as infusions which providehealth promoting phytochemicals to the consumers. Therefore moringa infusions were preparedalong with some herbs/flavouring agents such as tulsi, ginger and lemon grass. Total polyphenolcontent in the infusions ranged between 685 and 1567 mg GAE/100 mL. Among phenolic acidsdetected, gallic acid was highest in all the treatments. Infusion containing moringa and tulsiscored high in organoleptic evaluation. Thus, moringa infusion can become an add-on varietyto the tea/herbal infusion consumers.
Seed yield and quality as affected by weed management practices in bitter gourd
Authors: Anitha P , Devi S Nirmala , Kurian P Sainamole
Published: August 2023

Effect of weed management practices on seed yield and quality of bitter gourd var. Preethi wasstudied during 2016-17. The results showed that highest seed yield (0.73t/ha) was recorded inthe treatment Pendimethalin @0.75 a.i. /ha plus one hand weeding at 40 DAS followed bymulching using black polythene (0.65t/ha) which were on par. The lowest seed yield (0.18t/ha)was in weedy check. Weed control efficiency was highest (100%) in mulching with blackpolythene followed by application of pendimethalin +one hand weeding at 40DAS (97.97).Seed quality in terms of percentage germination (82.52) , vigour index I(1924.15) and Vigourindex II ( 27.24) were significantly superior in mulching with black polythene and was on parwith weed free check and application of Pendimenthalin + one hand weeding at 40 DAS.Highest seedling length (26.10cm) and seedling fresh weight (2.45g) were also recorded in thesame treatment. However, there was no significant difference between treatments for seedlingdry weight.
Evaluation of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) genotypes under coastal ecosystem of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sathappan C T
Published: August 2023

Genetic variability existing among genotypes is the prime and basic factor for the improvementof any character in a successful breeding programme of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.).Though the attempts made so far to exploit the available variability have culminated in therelease of a few improved region specific selections as varieties from different centers inIndia, still, varieties suited to coastal eco-system are yet to be identified. Hence, an experimentwas laid out to study the performance of 21 genotypes of Polianthes tuberosa L. collected fromvaried geographical locations. The trial was conducted in the floriculture unit of the Departmentof Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University under randomized block designreplicated thrice to assess the genetic variability for eleven economic characters. The resultsshowed that the genotype PT-15 recorded relatively superior mean performance with respectto all characters. High PCV and GCV were observed for number of leaves per plant, plantheight and rachis length. Low variability in terms of PCV and GCV was observed for length ofthe flower and time taken for flowering. High PCV and GCV values of more than 60 per centwas observed for bulb volume followed by yield of flowers per plant, rachis length and durationof flowering. The genotypes viz., PT-15 (Kuzhumani, Thiruchirappalli District), PT-3(Ravanthavadi, Dharmapuri District) and PT-10(Perumalpatti, Dindugul District) were identifiedas superior genotypes which are suitable for the coastal region based on per se values and canbe utilized for future breeding programmes.
Effect of configuration of calyx in cowpea flowers on infestation by spotted pod borer, Maruca vitrata (Fab.) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)
Authors: Nasiya-Beegum A N , Subramanian Madhu
Published: August 2023

Twenty cowpea accessions were evaluated for resistance to the spotted pod borer, Marucavitrata in the Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Horticulture, KeralaAgricultural University, Thrissur. The calyxes of the flowers were examined and the accessionswere categorized into two groups, partially free (major portion of the sepals free, the basalportion tight) and semi tight (major portion of the sepals tight, only the tip free). Significantvariation was observed in terms of damage to cowpea flowers due to spotted pod borer. Thehighest extent of flower damage (50.39 %) was recorded in case of Bhagyalakshmy.Categorization of the different accessions on the basis of the configuration of calyx indicatedthat EC 100092, Palakkadanthandanpayar, TVX – 944, EC 300039, IC 20645 and IC 52110 hadsemi tight calyx characterized by tight sepals with tips alone being free. All these accessionshad consistently low levels of infestation ranging from zero to 3.16 per cent. The accessions C– 152, Kanakamony, PKM – 1, Anaswara, IC 20431, Sreya, Hridya, Mysore local, IC 52105,Kashikanchan, Vellayani Jyothika, Malika, Bhagyalakshmy and Lola had major portion ofsepals free with their basal portion tight. Hence, they were grouped as partially free. Freesepals would provide the first instar borer larvae some extent of concealment as well as enableit to bore into the flower more easily. Tight calyx, thus, could possibly have a deterrent effecton the first instar larvae entry.
Occurrence of powdery mildew disease of Gerbera in Kerala
Authors: Praveen N M , Vijayaraghavan Reshmy , Beena S , Krishnan S
Published: August 2023

A purposive sampling survey on the hilly tracts of Wayanad, Kerala revealed the existence of powdery mildew disease in gerbera crops, grown under both protected and open field condition. Among the other fungal diseases of gerbera, powdery mildew disease causes decisive damage to the ornamental cut flower crop, thereby decline in the industrial value of the crop. Symptom of the disease include as white powdery mat on the upper surface of leaf lamina that gradually turned pale yellow to brown. Powdery mildew existed in two locations of Wayanad viz., Ambalavayal and Chulliyode where highest per cent disease severity (PDS) of 50.72 was observed at Chulliyode and 47.2 per cent was observed at Ambalavayal during November-December. In Ambalavayal, the disease was non-significant and no correlation existed between weather parameters and disease progress. But, in Chulliyode, correlation studies revealed that it was significant with positive correlation to relative humidity and a reverse relation existed with temperature and rainfall. The weather data clearly depicts that at a low rainfall of 96 mm and above average relative humidity of 80.27 per cent during November-December was the congenial factor influencing the disease development. But during summer, decline in relative humidity (78.37%) and rainfall (63.13 mm) caused a slight reduction in mean per cent disease severity of 49.12 per cent and 33.6 per cent at Chulliyode and Ambalavayal respectively. Morohological and cultural characters of the pathogen depicts presence of two distinct organism viz., Golovinomyces cichoracearum (Erysiphe cichoracearum) and Podosphaera sp. as the causative organism of the disease. Golovinomyces cichoracearumproduced hyaline, septate mycelia with globose conidia with irregular peripheral end formed in a chain and Podosphaera sp. produced superficial, hyaline, coenocytic mycelium with oval or ellipsoidal, catenate conidia with dimension ranging from 22.1-30.18 x 13.36-18.08ìm formed in unbranched erect conidiophores.
Influence of growth regulating chemicals on growth and flowering in Jasmine (Jasminum sambac.Ait.)
Authors: Dhanasekaran D
Published: August 2023

Jasmine is an important commercial flower crop in Tamil Nadu. The crop has a main floweringseason during March to October and an off-season from November to February. During thisoff-season, flowering is very poor or there is no flowering in many growing areas. In recentyears, growth regulators are valuable in floriculture for manipulating growth and flowering ofmany crops and hence and attempt has been made to induce flowering during off season usinggrowth regulators in Jasmine in the Floriculture unit of the Department of Horticulture, Facultyof Agriculture, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu during November, 2016 to February, 2017.The treatment comprises of three concentrations of each of two growth promoting substancesviz., NAA and GA3 and two growth retardants (Cycocel and Maleic Hydrazide). The experimentwas laid out in randomized block design with three replications. Among the various treatments,application of NAA @ 75 ppm (T6) recorded the highest plant height (130.6 cm and 178.5 cm at90 and 180 DAP respectively), number of primary shoots (21.68 and 35.68 at 90 and 180 DAPrespectively), number of nodes (9.86 and 15.89 cm at 90 and 180 DAP respectively) and numberof leaves (1250.0 and 2689.5 at 90 and 180 DAP respectively). Earliness in flowering (26.38DAP) and maximum duration of flowering (171.00 days) was noticed in (GA3@ 150 ppm T3).From the above studies, it is inferred that application of GA3 @ 150 ppm could be recommendedfor enhanced growth and higher flower yield in Jasminum sambac.
Sweet cherry cultivars influenced the growth and productivity under HDP
Authors: Srivastava K K , Kumar Dinesh , Barman P
Published: August 2023

In a field experiment, to identify the best sweet cherry varieties for high density orcharding, maximum canopy volume (18.94 cm3) was recorded in variety ‘Steela’ and minimum in ‘Lambert’ while, ‘Bigarreau Napoleon’ had maximum TCSA (213 cm2). Trees grown under HDP have lower TCSA in comparison to normal density. Primary and secondary branch girth were maximum in ‘Bigarreau Napoleon’ whereas, annual extension growth and shoot thickness were high in ‘Steela’. Yield, yield efficiency and cumulative yield efficiency were registered maximum in ‘Bigarreau Napoleon’ and ‘Bigarreau Noir Grossa’ cultivars. Largest fruit weight, fruit length and fruit diameter were found maximum (10.16 g/fruit), (25.51 mm) (25.20 mm) respectively in ‘Bigarreau Napoleon’. Total soluble solids were found maximum in ‘Bigarreau Noir Grossa’ (17.30 0Brix) among the studied cultivars. Correlation matrix showed that TCSA had positive correlation with canopy volume, primary branch girth and secondary branch girth and fruit weight showed positive correlation with fruit length and fruit diameter.
Heterosis and combining ability for yield and its related traits in ridge gourd [Luffa acutangula (L.)Roxb.]
Authors: B Varalakshmi , M Pitchaimuthu , E Sreenivasa Rao
Published: August 2023

Line × Tester analysis involving three lines and four testers was carried out in ridge gourd [Luffa acutangula (Roxb.) L.]. Significant variation was noticed in the mean performance of the parents and hybrids for all the characters studied except for vine length and fruit girth. The results from GCA and SCA variance indicated the predominance of non-additive gene action for all the traits except fruit girth. Significant heterosis of 177.78% over standard check, Arka Sumeet for fruit weight per plant was expressed by the cross GARG-1 × CO-1. The best general combiners were GARG-1 and Pusa Nutan among the lines, and Jaipur long and CO-1 among testers. Best specific combining ability effects for fruit length and yield (t/ ha) were recorded by the crosses Pusa Nasdar × Arka Sumeet and GARG-1 × CO-1.
Mineral content of red skinned potatoes of Eastern India
Authors: . Dalamu , Sharma J , Kumar S , Luthra S K , Sharma A K , Sharma V , Dua V K
Published: August 2023

Potato tuber colour is an important factor that influences consumer preferences. Eastern plain region of India contributes about 50% of total potato acreage and production. Consumers in this region generally prefer red skinned varieties. Growing awareness for nutrient rich food can create a niche market for nutritious potatoes. Potato is crop of choice for mineral biofortification owing to better mineral bioavailability due to its high ascorbic acid and minimal phytate content. Iron and zinc are the essentially required minerals for good health. Considering the nutritional importance of these elements and wider prevalence of their deficiency in Indian sub-continent, thirteen Eastern regions red skinned advanced hybrids and varieties were evaluated to find the genetic diversity for iron and zinc content. A significant wide range of contents was observed for both the elements. High heritability of both mineral suggests feasibility of selecting genotypes for breeding nutrient rich varieties. Identified genotypes can be utilised as parental lines for future breeding programme and can be released as nutrient rich potato variety.
Metabolite profiling in Mango (Mangifera indica L.) pollen grains in relation to viability
Authors: Shivashankara K S , Geetha G A , Roy T K
Published: August 2023

Mango productivity is affected mainly by irregular flowering, proportion of bisexual flowers, poor pollination and fertilization and fruit drop. Poor fruit set in some of the varieties may be associated with the lower pollen viability. The present experiment was initiated to assess the viability of pollen grains and their metabolites in three mango cultivars Amrapali, Alphonso and Totapuri which are differing in their fruit set intensity. The profiling of sugars, amino acids and some of the phytohormones were analysed using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Assessment of pollen grains in three mango cultivars indicated that free sugars such as fructose and glucose, and available amino acids including serine, proline, lysine, phenylalanine, alanine and glutamic acid were predominantly higher in all the cultivars. Phytohormones like IAA, IBA, ABA, GA,zeatin, jasmonic acid and salicylic acid were significantly different in low fruit setting cultivars Alphonso and Totapuri compared to high fruit setting cultivar Amrapali. In cv. Alphonso all the metabolites were higher at anthesis but later decreased drastically compared to cvs. Totapuri and Amrapali. Pollen viability percentage was significantly higher in cv. Amrapali than in cvs. Totapuri, Alphonso. Among all the cultivars, Amrapali maintained better chemical composition at anthesis and also at two hours after anthesis compared to cvs. Totapuri and Alphonso.
Performance of Anthurium (Anthurium anderanum Lindl) cultivars under hill zone of Karnataka
Authors: Nataraj S K , Naik Kirtimala B , Kumar HS Yallesh , Ramesha Y S
Published: August 2023

An investigation was carried out at experimental block, College of Horticulture, Mudigere. Tropical recorded maximum LAI 2.83, and had maximum plant height, number of leaves, leaf area and Leaf area Index. Cultivar Crinkle Red recorded maximum number of flowers per plant per year (13.14), which was on par with Tropical (11.77), Cheers (10.60) and Fire (10.25). Cultivar Midori recorded maximum vase life (35.00 days) followed by Tropical (33.33 days) and it was on par with Fire (32.22 days). Cultivar Midori recorded maximum vase life (35.00 days), followed by Tropical (33.33 days) and it was on par with Fire (32.22 days) and highest B:C ratio is recorded in cultivar Tropical (1.83) and it was least in Fantacia (1.13) .
Post harvest loss and marketing of fruits - economic analysis of pink flesh guava in local and distant markets in India
Authors: Gajanana T M , Murthy D Sreenivasa , Sudha M , Saxena A K , Rao DV Sudhakar , Dakshinamoorthy V
Published: August 2023

Guava produced in Bengaluru in Karnataka is also transported to distant markets like Cochin in Kerala and Chennai in Tamil Nadu. An assessment of post harvest loss (PHL) was done in these markets. The main marketing channel followed was:Producer  PHC  Distant Market WS Retailer  ConsumerMarketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Kerala were studied from wholesalers and retailers. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 3.6 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 4.59 per cent which was mainly due to storage for more than two days resulting in decaying, rotting, yellowing etc. Average price received by the wholesaler was Rs.29.92/kg with a margin of Rs.6.21/kg (20.75%). The retailers received a price of Rs.46.54/kg with a margin of Rs.16.35/kg (35.13%). Marketing practices followed in marketing of pink flesh guava and losses occurring at the wholesale (transit) and retailers’ level (storage) in the distant market - Chennai (Tamil Nadu) were studied with wholesalers in Coimbeedu market and retailers in different parts of Chennai. The PHL at the wholesalers’ level was observed to be 4.62 per cent mainly due to pressed and crushed fruits during transit. The retail level loss was 6.09 per cent which was due to pressing of fruits during handling. The wholesaler received a margin of 22.91 percent in trading of guava fruits. The retailers received a margin of 45.72 per cent. The Karnataka farmers can take advantage of the higher prices prevalent in the distant markets and increase their income. Pathological investigation indicated that losses occurred at different stages of handling due to Styler end rot, Anthracnose, Canker, thrips attack etc., which needs to be addressed. The storage losses of pink flesh guava were estimated as 5.89 % after 4 days of storage at room temperature (24-32°C) that constituted mainly the physiological loss in weight (PLW). Spoilage started after 5 days of storage (10.5 %) and reached to 28.31 % by 6 days of storage. After 4 days of storage, guava fruits lose weight to the extent of 6 per cent and the spoilage starts after 5 days. Hence, care should be taken to dispose of the fruits within five days of harvest.
Screening of Coriander Genotypes for their Relative Susceptibility against Aphids under Field Conditions
Authors: N K Meena , G Lal , S S Meena , K Kant , R D Meena
Published: August 2023

The field experiments were conducted during Rabi 2013-14 and 2014-15 to screen out twelve varieties/entries of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) for their relative susceptibility against aphids. None of the varieties/entries escaped the infestation of aphids. The build-up of aphid infestation started from second half of December and reached to its maximum in the first to third week of February in both years and then gradually declined. On the basis of grade index of mean aphid population, coriander varieties RCr- 684 (25.45 aphids/plant), RCr-446 (26.45 aphids/plant), ACr-1 (26.60 aphids/plant), RCr- 436 (41.75 aphids/plant), Gujarat Coriander-2 (42.45 aphids/plant), Pant Haritma (43.50 aphids/plant) and Gujarat Coriander-1 (43.70 aphids/plant) were categorized as least susceptible, Rajendra Swati and RCr-41 were moderately susceptible, whereas, Swati (CS-6), Sadhna (CS-4) and Sindhu (CS-2), 73.88, 70.60 and 69.50 aphids/plant, respectively were categorized as highly susceptible varieties of coriander against aphids under field conditions. Coriander variety RCr-684 received maximum yield (16.82 and 16.63 q/ha) for both the years followed by ACr-1 and RCr-446.
Correlation of Leaf Parameters with Incidence of Papaya Ring Spot Virus in Cultivated Papaya and its Wild Relatives
Authors: Vincent Linta , K Soorianathasundaram , K S Shivashankara
Published: August 2023

Papaya ring spot virus (PRSV) disease has been the major impediment in papaya cultivation. The disease is transmitted through three aphid vectors and field tolerance towards this disease varies among Carica papaya cultivars as well as within the Vasconcellea genus. Leaf morphological traits are known to have influence on the probing preferences of aphids. Hence, this study was conducted to know whether the leaf parameters could contribute to the incidence of PRSV possibly by influencing the probing or feeding behaviour of aphid vectors. Leaf parameters viz., leaf thickness, leaf epicuticular wax content, presence and type of trichomes, trichome density were correlated with disease incidence at field conditions. The result revealed that leaf thickness along with epicuticular wax content had significant negative correlation with disease incidence. Similarly, trichome density had negative impact on disease incidence at 99.92% significance level. High epicuticular wax content and high trichome density in V. cauliflora and V. cundinamarcensis were found to be negatively associated with low to very low infection indicating that these parameters may have limited the vector transmission significantly.
Compositional Nutrient Diagnosis (CND) Norms and Indices for Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: A N Ganeshamurthy , P Govindakrishnan , H B Raghupathi , M B Mahendra Kumar
Published: August 2023

A survey was conducted in potato fields for collection of leaf samples to establish nutrient concentration yield data bank. The data bank was used for developing multivariate compositional nutrient diagnosis (CND) norms for assessing the nutritional status of selected centres of potato growing fields. The mean N, P and K concentrations were 2.09, 0.25 and 4.16 %, respectively. The mean Ca (1.11%) concentration was twice higher compared to Mg (0.63 %) concentration. The mean values of Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn and B were 43.69, 31.24, 986.71, 192.76 and 59.98 ppm, respectively. The CND norms for V N, V P and V K were 3.04, 0.94 and 3.73, respectively. The norm for Ca (V Ca =2.45) and Mg (V Mg =1.78) were much narrower compared to the absolute nutrient concentration. The norm for V Zn , V Cu , V Fe , V Mn and V B were -3.24, -3.60, -0.23, -1.98 and -2.89 respectively. The multivariate CND norms developed for ten nutrients proved to be an important tool for diagnosis of nutrient imbalance in potato. The nutrient indices developed indicated that Zn was the most common yield-limiting nutrient. The CND norms and the indices developed can be used for identifying the hidden hunger of various nutrients in potato for evolving nutrient management strategies.
Comparative studies on growth and Yield of Conventional and Tissue culture plants of Turmeric (Curcuma longa) var. CO2
Authors: R Chitra
Published: August 2023

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is an ancient spice, native of India and South East Asia used from antiquity as spice and a dye. It is commonly propagated through rhizomes. The availability of disease free quality planting material is scarce during the cropping season (June – September). An experiment was conducted to study the performance of in vitro derived turmeric plants with conventional rhizome under field condition. The results indicated that the tissue culture plants showed better performance over the conventional rhizome planting. Tissue culture plants grew vigorously and taller than conventional type. The highest yield potential was observed in tissue cultureplants (40.83 tons/ha) as compared to the conventional rhizome planting (30.14 tons/ha). The rhizome rot incidence was lower (3.87% ) in tissue culture plants than rhizome-derived plants (25.58% ). However, the agronomic traits observed during the present study in tissue culture plants are stable and rhizome harvested from tissue culture plants can be used as disease free planting materials for further planting.
Management of Eulophid Seed Borer, Anselmella kerrichi (Narayanan et al.) (Hymenoptera : Chalcidoidea : Eulophidae) on Jamun
Authors: B R Jayanthi Mala , P D Kamala Jayanthi , Subramoniam Anjana , A Rekha
Published: August 2023

A field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru during 2019 to evaluate certain insecticides and botanicals against jamun seed borer, Anselmella keriichi (Naryananet al.). The results revealed that the seed borer infestation was significantly low in –λ cyhalothrin (4.20%) and cypermethrin (5.77%) treatments followed by spinosad (6.36%), deltamethrin (6.40%) and imidacloprid (6.71%) (F=7.9; df=11; P<0.0001). Among the organic insecticides viz., spinosad @ 0.2 mL/L showed significant reduction in jamun seed borer infestation.
Pod set and Pollen Viability Studies in Yard Long Bean (Vigna unguiculata sub sp. sesquipedalis)
Authors: E G Merin , S Sarada , V A Celine
Published: August 2023

A study was conducted in a yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata sup/ssp. sesquipedalis) hybrid VS 50 (Kakkamoola Local) x VS 26 (Vellayani Jyothika) to assess the percentage fruit set at two time intervals and to identify the best time interval for pollination in yard long bean hybrids. Hand pollination was done using VS 50 as female parent and VS 26 as male parent for seven consecutive days at two time intervals, 6.30 – 7.30 am and 7.30 – 8.30 am. Higher percentage of fruit set (36.8 %) was observed between 6:30 – 7:30 a.m. as compared to the time interval 7:30 – 8:30 am. (23.8%). Pollen viability was determined for the parents VS 50 (Kakkamoola Local) and VS 26 (Vellayani Jyothika) at 6.30, 7.30 and 8.30 am. Highest pollen viability for both the parents VS 50 and VS 26 was observed during 7.30 am. The present study shows that the best time interval for crossing in yard long bean is 6.30- 7.30 a.m.
Diversity and Distribution of Curry Leaf in India
Authors: Raghu B R
Published: August 2023

Curry leaf is an aromatic tropical and sub-tropical plant originated from India. Besides its culinary purpose, curry leaf is known for its medicinal and industrial applications. Based on ethno-botanical reports and other floral distribution studies, the germplasm rich regions of curry leaf in India could be identified into six zones as Foot hills of Himalaya, North-East region, Middle India, Eastern Ghats, Western Ghats and Andaman – Nicobar Islands. With respect to color and size of leaves, habitat and flavor, the curry leaf plant is classified as brown/ gamthi, regular and dwarf morphotypes. Four genetically diverse chemotypes of curry leaves such as -pinene, -pinene, -carophyllene and -phellandrene exist in India. Due to its nutritional value, increasing export potential, less input, lower cost of cultivation, assured income, perennial nature and constant demand in local, national and international markets, the curry leaf is being cultivated on commercial scale in recent years in India.
Assessment of Genetic Divergence in Long Day Onion (Allium cepa L.) through Principal Component and Single Linkage Cluster Analysis
Authors: S R Singh , N Ahamed , K K Srivastava , D Kumar , S Yousuf
Published: August 2023

To assess the nature and magnitude of genetic diversity in long day onion germplasm by using the principal component analysis and single linkage cluster analysis an experiment was carried out with 34 onion genotypes. High coefficient of variation with wide range in traits indicated an appreciable variability in germplasm. Genotypes were classified into seven principal components having Eigen value > 1, cumulatively accounted for 83.87% of total variability. Principal Component - I contributed for 24.73% of total variation for followed by principal component-II (15.27%). PC-I had high positive loading for bulb weight (0.401), marketable yield (0.338), total bulb yield (0.401) and PC-II had high positive loading for plant height (0.412), PC-III for high T.S.S. (0.276) PC -IV for A grade bulbs (0.436), PC-V for polar diameter of bulbs (0.514), PC-IV negatively loaded with purple blotch (-0.461) and PC-VII for narrow neck thickness (-0 .515). Plotting PC-I aganist PC-II differenciated CITH-O-13, CITH-O-4, CITH-O-22, CITH-O-19, CITH-O-9, CITH-O-6 and CITH-O2 as most divergent genotype.On the basis of single linkage cluster means cluster-I was most importent for average bulb weight, minimum bolters, high marketble bulb percentage high marketable and total bulb yield whereas cluster -II was important for maximum nuber of leaves/plant and minimum neck thicknes. Highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluter II and Cluster-I(873.5% ).Most divergent genotypes with high inter cluter distance could be the most appropriate parents for crop impovement in onion.
Standardization of Spacing and Soil Volume Wetting for Drip Irrigationin Papaya (Carica papaya L.)
Authors: B L Manjunath , A K Nair , R H Laxman
Published: August 2023

Field experiments in two crops of papaya were conducted at ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research for four years during 2016-19 to standardise spacing with optimum soil volume wetting for drip irrigation. Narrowing the plant rows drastically reduced the plant height while leaf production affected significantly due to reduction in intra row spacing. The height at first fruiting was significantly lower with a spacing of 1.8 m x 1.5 m (56.4 cm) significantly differing from both 1.5 m x 1.5 m (60.9 cm) or 1.8 m x 1.8 m (66.8 cm). Significantly higher mean fruit yield (42.2 t/ha) was recorded with the spacing of 1.5 m x 1.5m as compared to either 1.8m x 1.5m (23.4 t/ha) or 1.8m x 1.8m (22.1 t/ha). Significantly higher water use efficiency (71.3 kg/ha.mm) was recorded in papaya by following closer spacing of 1.5 m x 1.5 m. Among the interactions, higher papaya yield (48.0 t/ha) was recorded with normal drip irrigation (80% soil volume wetting) under closer spacing (1.5 m. x 1.5 m). Further, higher water use efficiency (129 kg/ha. mm) could be obtained by scheduling the irrigation at 30% soil volume wetting especially by planting at 1.5 m. x 1.5 m. spacing suggesting its suitability for water scarcity areas.
Variability and Genetic Divergence in Vegetable Cowpea Germplasm of Goa
Authors: M Thangam , K Ramachandrudu , J Ashok Kumar , S A Safeena , S Priya Devi
Published: August 2023

Vegetable cowpea or Yard long bean [Vigna unguiculata var. sesquipedalis L. (Walp)] is a warm season leguminous crops grown especially for vegetable purpose along the west coast of India. In Goa, pole type varieties are preferred over bushy types as they offer multiple harvests with comparatively longer pods. There is wide variability found for different morphological and other traits in the local types cultivated in the state of Goa. Exploration of genetic variability in the available germplasm is a prerequisite for initiation of any successful breeding programme. Twenty nine genotypes of vegetable cowpea including three improved varieties collected from different parts of Goa state were evaluated for twelve quantitative characters including yield. High variability was observed for pod yield/plant, number of pods/plant and pod length. The high variability for pod yield per plant is apparent as the pod yield ranged from 315.25 to 2070.45 g/plant with an average of 827.48 g per plant. Pod yield depends on number of pods per plant, pod length and pod weight. Number of pods per plant ranged from 36.65 to 147.80. Pod weight depends on pod length, number of seeds per pod and hundred seeds weight. Wide variation was observed for all these characters in the present study. The GCV value was maximum for pod yield per plant (g) followed by pod weight (g) and number of pods per plant. Low values of GCV were observed for days to first flowering, days to first harvest and number of seeds per pod. In the present study, the twenty nine genotypes could be grouped into fourteen clusters based on genetic distance. High coefficient of variation was observed for pod yield per plant, pod weight, number of pods per plant and pod length indicating their significant contribution in determining the inter cluster distances.
Validation of Molecular Markers Genetically Linked to S-Cytoplasm and Restoration-of-fertility (Rf) Loci in Hot Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: K K Jessy Mol , D C Lakshmana Reddy , Y B Manoj , K Madhavi Reddy
Published: August 2023

Existence of CGMS system in hot pepper is due to the rearrangements in the mitochondrial genome and is largely used in economized and pure F 1 hybrid seed production around the world. The orf456, a new ORF present at flanking region of the coxII gene at the 3’ end, was distinguished male sterile cytoplasm in hot peppers along with atp6-2gene. In the current study, eighteen pepper genotypes (nine each of A and corresponding B lines) of varied origin were used to validate with two male sterile cytoplasm (S-cytoplasm) specific sequence characterised amplified region (SCAR) markers viz., atp6-2 (875 bp) and orf456 (456 bp) and one restoration-of-fertility (Rf) locus specific marker, CRF (550 bp). The results clearly showed that the presence of CMS-S-cytoplasm and absence of restoration-of-fertility (Rf) gene in the pepper genotypes studied and is comparable with the phenotypic data. In view of the outcomes it has been reasoned that the accessible S and Rf markers available in the public domain are reproducible and can be promptly utilized for marker assisted selection (MAS) in hot pepper crop improvement program.
An overview of canopy management in cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.)
Authors: Adiga D J , Veena G L , Thondaiman V , Babli M
Published: August 2023

Being a tree crop of commercial importance, the productive performance of cashew is greatly influenced by how best its canopy is architectured for harnessing maximum benefits in terms of yield. The initial training is crucial for the development of photosynthetically efficient canopy in cashew as in other perennial fruit trees. Pruning of dead wood and crisscross branches can alone increase the yield by 30-40 per cent. The dwarf rootstocks also play a role in manipulating the canopy in cashew, wherein, canopy containment and yield were influenced by such rootstocks. By resorting to soil application of growth retardants like paclobutrazol, cashew canopy could be successfully contained to suit high density planting system. The studies on planting geometry has indicated the advantage of high density planting in enhancing profitability of cashew orchards in the initial years of plantation. The advantages of rejuvenation as well as top working techniques are also discussed in this  aper.
Evaluation of potassium salt of phosphonic acid in Nagpur mandarin with special reference to Phytophthora management
Authors: Ingle Y V , Paithankar D H , Sadawarte A K , Bhonde S R
Published: August 2023

Phytophthora parasitica var. nicotianae is a major fungal pathogen that causes foot rot, root rot, crown rot, gummosis, leaf fall, and brown rot diseases in Nagpur mandarin in the entire Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. For the efficient management of root rot and gummosis due to Phytophthora, the potassium salt of phosphonic acid (PSPA) was evaluated under field and laboratory conditions. In field trials, infected plants were treated with different concentrations of PSPA by foliar spray and soil drenching. The results revealed that foliar spray + soil drenching of PSPA at 3 ml/liter water was better with respect to the average reduction in no. of lesion with oozing (28.39%), minimum in feeder root index (2.17), increase in canopy volume (11.15%) and higher fruit yield (65.89 kg/ per tree). The effect of PSPA was assayed at three different concentrations against P. nicotianae under in vitro. PSPA was found most effective in arresting the growth of P. nicotianae as complete (100%) inhibition observed in tested doses.
Genetic analysis in mango (Mangifera indica L.) based on fruit characteristics of 400 genotypes
Authors: Sankaran M , Dinesh M R , Gowda D C S , Venugopalan R
Published: August 2023

The analysis of variance for 6 quantitative traits and 30 qualitative traits showed significant differences among the 400 genotypes of mango which indicates the existence of high heterozygosity. Among the 18 clusters formed, the highest fruit weight of 1404.27 g was recorded in cluster 10 followed by cluster 15 with 1280.67g whereas the lowest fruit weight was recorded in cluster 16 (30.94g). The highest fruit length (22.03 cm) was recorded in cluster 10 followed by 17.80 cm in cluster 14. Similarly, the fruit diameter was highest (12.18 cm) in cluster 10 followed by 12.03 cluster 4. The fruit thickness was highest (10.60 cm) in cluster 15 followed by cluster 4 with 9.96 cm. The pulp recovery was maximum (87.16%) in cluster-14 followed by clusters 4 and 18 with 79.28 and 78.41 %, respectively. Clusters 15 had the varieties meant for pickle making and possessed less TSS whereas the TSS of above 19°B was recorded in cluster 2. The maximum inter-cluster (D2) value was obtained between cluster 10 and cluster 11. These clusters may be used for hybridization programs due to wide variability and the possibility of transgressive sergeants. Estimates of phenotypic variance and genotypic variance had only a narrow difference for all six characters studied indicating that these characters are not much influenced by environmental factors and highly heritable which can be exploited by adopting clonal selection or selection of chance seedlings and selection as parents for breeding purpose.
Influence of inorganic nutrients on growth, flowering and quality of Dendrobium cv. Singapore white
Authors: Nair Sujatha A , Sankar V , Muralidhara B M , Awcharae C M , Singh D R
Published: August 2023

Dendrobium orchid cv. Singapore White is cultivated commercially for cut flower purpose. The performance of this orchid in response to the different nutrient concentrations was evaluated under the agro-climatic conditions of Kodagu during 2017-2020. Twelve nutrient doses were applied as foliar sprays at weekly intervals to study their effect on vegetative growth, flower production and quality parameters of the cut flowers. Plant height, number of leaves plant-1, leaf area, number of pseudobulbs plant-1, number of spikes plant-1 year-1, number of flowers spike-1 and spike length varied significantly with the nutrient doses. Foliar spray of 30:20:20 NPK 0.1% at weekly intervals recorded the maximum plant height of 53.21cm, number of spikes plant-1year-1 (10.01) with spike length of 44.43 cm and 16.20 flower spike-1.