Biological Yield Research Articles

Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn as Influenced by Nitrogen Levels and Crop Geometry

An experiment was conducted during rabi, 2023 at new experimental cum demonstration field, Shri Vaishnav Institute of Agriculture, Shri Vaishnav Vidyapeeth Vishwavidyalaya, Indore. The field experiment was laid out in a split plot design with three replication. The main plot treatment comprised of three crop geometry viz., 60 cm x 20 cm (S1), 60 cm x 30 cm (S2), 60 cm x 40 cm (S3) whereas, sub plot treatments comprised of four nitrogen levels viz., 125: 60: 40 kg ha-1 (N1), 100: 60: 40 kg ha-1 (N2), 75: 60: 40 kg ha-1 (N3) and control (N4). The main objective of research was to study the effect of nitrogen levels and crop geometry on growth and yield of sweet corn. The crop geometry of 60 cm x 20 cm along with application of 125 per cent RDN has shown noticeably greater growth and yield parameters such as., plant height at harvest, days to 50% flowering, green cob yield, green fodder yield, biological yield and harvest index. While, the crop geometry of 60 cm x 40 cm along with application of 125 per cent RDN has shown noticeably greater growth qualities such as., number of leaves at harvest, leaf area at harvest, dry matter at flowering and at harvest, yield attributing cob length with husk and without husk, cob diameter with husk and without husk, cob weight with husk and without husk, number of grains and grain weight cob‑1. Control treatment took maximum days to days to 50 per cent tasselling and 50 per cent silking.

Impact of Heterotic Potential in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Certain Yield and its Contributing Traits in Salt-Affected Soil

The present investigation was undertaken with the objectives to estimate genetic variability for yield and yield contributing components. The experimental materials of rice for this investigation comprised of 22 genotypes as lines (female) and three testers (male) viz., Narendra Usar 3, NDR 359 and CSR 36. Each of the three testers was crossed with 22 lines during Kharif, 2013. The experiment was based on the evaluation of a line × tester set of 66 hybrids (F1s) along with their 22 parents and check varieties viz., Narendra Usar 3 and Arize 6444, for twelve quantitative trait in salt affected soil in randomized block design with three replications. The analysis of variance revealed that all the treatments, parents, parent vs crosses, crosses, lines and lines x testers were highly significant for majority of the yield and its contributing traits indicated sufficient variation among the treatment/materials under study.In the present investigation, a wide range of variation in estimates of heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis in positive and negative directions was observed for grain yield per plant and its contributing components. In case of grain yield per plant heterobeltiosis ranged from -1.76 per cent (IR 47427-2B-2-2B-1-1× Narendra Usar 3)to 100.14 per cent (Kashturi Chandauli× NDR 359), standard heterosis over SV1varied from -30.85 per cent (AGAMI MI× CSR 36) to 50.84 per cent (Kashturi Chandauli× NDR 359) while over it ranged from -3677 per cent (AGAMI MI× CSR 36) to 37.92 per cent (Kashturi Chandauli× NDR 359). Kashturi Chandauli× NDR 359, IR 74095 AC 5 × NDR 359, Narendra 6096 × NDR 359, Sarjoo 52 × Narendra Usar 3 and Kashturi Chandauli× Narendra Usar 3 were found highly significant over BP, while Kashturi Chandauli× NDR 359, IR 74095 AC 5 × NDR 359, Narendra 6096 × NDR 359, Sarjoo 52 × Narendra Usar 3 and Jaya × Narendra Usar 3 had highly significant over standard variety SV1. Further Kashturi Chandauli × NDR 359, IR 74095 AC 5 × NDR 359, Narendra 6096 × NDR 359, Sarjoo 52 × Narendra Usar 3 and Jaya × Narendra Usar 3 were found to be highly significant over SV2 for grain yield per plant. The estimates of heterosis were attributed to genetic interaction arising from both additive as well as high degree of non additive gene action for major physiological traits. Two physiological traits viz., biological yield per plant and harvest index followed by spikelets per panicle, 1000- grain weight, L: B ratio and flag leaf area remained as major contributors to heterobiltiosis and standard heterosis. It reflects that emphasis should be given to select these traits to enhance the production and productivity in salt affected soil.

Tree diversity, carbon sequestration and production potential of Oryza sativa L. in traditional agroforestry systems of Garhwal Himalaya, India

Agroforestry is an alternative land use practice that holds promise for societal benefits and the attainment of ecosystem sustainability. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the tree diversity, carbon sequestration, soil carbon pool, oxygen production and rice productivity under traditional agroforestry systems at different elevations in the Garhwal Himalayan region of India. Tree diversity, carbon sequestration and oxygen production were quantified by field measurements (using 0.04 ha quadrats) and subsequent calculations. Rice productivity was assessed using grain yield, straw yield and biological yield, while soil properties were analyzed in the laboratory using standard methods. Results of the study showed that tree diversity was higher at the 1200–1600 m elevation and had a maximum Shannon Diversity Index (1.29) and Simpson Diversity Index (0.69). The 1600–2000 m elevation stored more carbon (34.43 Mg ha−1) and total oxygen production (91.79 Mg ha−1). Among the agroforestry trees, Quercus leucotrichophora, Melia azedarach and Prunus cerasoides showed the highest carbon storage and total oxygen production. Elevation and soil depth were found to affect the soil properties. The agroforestry systems had higher soil organic carbon and lower bulk density than sole cropping systems. Compared to the agroforestry system, the monoculture produced more rice (Oryza sativa). The study shows that traditional agroforestry is a valuable tool for carbon sequestration and soil improvement, albeit with potential compromises in crop productivity. It emphasises the need for tailored management approaches to harness the ecological and environmental benefits of agroforestry in the Himalayas. This study draws attention to the potential of traditional agroforestry in the Garhwal Himalaya for carbon sequestration, climate change mitigation and soil quality improvement which provides a reference for striking a balance between the ecological advantages of agroforestry and the socio-economic considerations of local communities. However, it also underlines the importance of considering trade-offs between environmental benefits and crop yields when implementing such agroforestry systems.Graphical

Determining the Effect of Different Organic Nutrient Sources on the Growth and Yield of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)

Indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers is a common practice which is hazardous both for soil health and environment. Chemical fertilizers have been widely used due to their immediate availability of nutrients; however, their long-term effects on soil and crop sustainability necessitate alternatives such as organic fertilizers. It has been more than three decades that global agriculture has been depicted towards organic agriculture owing to sustainability and reduced environmental effects. A field experiment was conducted at Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Lamjung Campus from December 2022 to February 2023, with the objective to study the effect of various sources of organic manure on the growth and yield of radish. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Complete Design using 7 treatments (Control, Farm Yard Manure(FYM), Poultry Manure(PM), Goat Manure, FYM + Poultry Manure, FYM + Goat Manure, Poultry Manure + Goat Manure) with 3 replications of each. Tokinashi variety of radish was used in the experiment. Radish is an important root vegetable known for its nutritional value and quick growth cycle, making it a key crop for studying the impacts of organic manure. Experiment was done in field with the plot size of (2 x 1) m² and spacings of 30 cm x 20 cm with the total land area of 90 m². The growth and yield of radish were significantly affected by the different treatments. The highest total root yield (204.33) and biological yield (263.67) was found in Poultry manure. The study suggested that the application of poultry manure was more beneficial and resulted in significantly better growth and yield performance of radish.

Impact of Foliar Supplementation of Nitrogenous Fertilizer on Yield Attributes and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Foliar application of nitrogenous fertilizers has become a key factor in improving nitrogen use efficiency, boosting crop yields, and reducing farming costs. Liquid fertilizers are essential for precise nutrient management, ensuring crops receive the necessary nutrients throughout their growth cycle, thereby enhancing yield potential. A field experiment was conducted in the Rabi seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24 to examine the impact of soil and foliar nitrogen supplementation on wheat growth. The experiment followed a Split Plot Design with three main plots and five subplots, each repeated thrice. The main plots included various nitrogen doses: M1 (100% recommended dose of nitrogen, RDN), M2 (75% RDN), and M3 (50% RDN). The subplots tested different foliar treatments: S1 (one spray of nano urea at the tillering stage), S2 (two sprays of nano urea at the tillering and jointing stages), S3 (two sprays of 5% urea at the tillering and jointing stages), S4 (one spray of NPK 19:19:19 at the tillering stage), and S5 (no spraying, control). The results showed that the full recommended nitrogen dose significantly improved wheat yield and related characteristics. The 100% RDN increased grain yield (4309 kg/ha), straw yield (6307 kg/ha), biological yield (10616 kg/ha), harvest index (40.58%), number of ear heads per square meter (324.39), ear head length (10.11 cm), number of grains per ear head (47.93), and 1000-grain weight (42.49 g) compared to the 75% and 50% RDN treatments. Moreover, foliar nitrogen application enhanced grain and straw yields. The highest ear head number (320.69), ear head length (9.89 cm), grains per ear head (47.44), 1000-grain weight (42.03 g), grain yield (4229 kg/ha), straw yield (6301 kg/ha), biological yield (10530 kg/ha), and harvest index (40.69%) were observed with two sprays of 5% urea at the tillering and jointing stages. This treatment performed similarly to two sprays of nano urea. Therefore, two spray of urea (5%) at tillering (45 DAS) and jointing (65 DAS) stage of wheat along with RDF would improve the performance of Wheat.

Influence of boron and molybdenum fertilization on brinjal cv. Punjab Bharpoor growth, nutrient uptake, and productivity in alluvial plains of Punjab

Continuous depletion of micronutrients from soil through modernized agricultural practices emerged as major impediment to achieve the goal of sustainable agriculture. Therefore, the effect of B, Mo fertilization supplemented with NPK sources and vermicompost on the growth of brinjal crop have been studied during 2021–2022 and 2022–2023. Field experiments were conducted under randomized block design with eight treatments replicated thrice comprised of different B, Mo doses supplemented with NPK sources and vermicompost. Application of B and Mo up to 2.25 and 1.5 kg/ha significantly influenced the biological yield of crop. Maximum plant height (84.4 cm), fruit length (17.5 cm), ascorbic acid (7.71 mg/100 g), leaf/plant (84.4), leaf area (2439.15 cm2), fruit count/cluster (3.61), and fruit boron (0.70 mg/100 g), was recorded under treatment of 100% NPK + 2.25 kg/ha B + 1.5 kg/ha Mo + 10 t/ha vermicompost (T6). Pooled data showed a maximum uptake of N, P, and K in range 90.6, 27.9, and 63.8 kg/ha under same treatment. In addition, similar treatment clinched maximum yield of 25.5 followed by 23.7 t/ha under T7. Results on growth characters and yield were found comparable in 2022–2023 over 2021–2022. However, B (1.5) and Mo (1 kg/ha) incorporated with 75% RDF NPK and vermicompost (7.5 t/ha) showed superior results with higher yield as compared to sole application of NPK. The study identified B and Mo (2.25 and 1.5 kg/ha) + 100% RDF NPK and vermicompost (10 t/ha) as best and prominent treatment with highest production potential and maximum crop growth.

Effect of Different Urea Doses on the Performance of Wheat Under the Agro-Climatic Conditions of Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

The research conducted aimed to evaluate the impact of varying urea doses on the performance of wheat (Triticum aestivum), with a focus on growth, yield, and nitrogen use efficiency. Urea, a common nitrogen fertilizer, is crucial in enhancing crop productivity. The experiment was conducted in 2022-2023 at the Agriculture Research Station Baffa Mansehra in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The research material consisted of a Wheat variety. The Seeds were sown in RCBD design on 15th October 2022 at an Agriculture Research Station Baffa Mansehra. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with three replications. In the agro-climatic conditions of Mansehra, comprehensive data were gathered on various morphological and yield-related attributes. These included morphological parameters such as days to heading, leaf area index (cm), days to maturity, number of tillers/ plant-1, plant height (cm), spike length (cm), spikelet /spike, thousand-grain weight (g), grain yield kg/ha-1, and biological yield kg/ha-1. The study concludes that from experiments that wheat on different urea applications gives significant results from germination to till harvesting under the agro-climatic condition of Mansehra. It means that the wheat on different Urea applications shows improvement in Plant height, Spike length, Spikelet /spike, 1000-grain weight, grain yield and biological yield. Based on these results, it is recommended to apply urea at optimal rates to enhance wheat growth and yield, with the most effective rate being 65 grams per 6 m².

The effect of physical and chemical mutagenesis in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.)

This comprehensive study investigates the impact of physical and chemical mutagenesis on lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) to enhance genetic variability and identify mutants with improved agronomic traits. Gamma radiation and ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) were used as mutagens. The experimental design, treatment doses, and observed morphological, physiological, and biochemical responses of lentil genotypes are presented. The results demonstrate significant variability in traits such as plant height, seed yield, chlorophyll content, biological yield, harvest index, and 1000-seed weight, with notable differences between control and treated groups. The findings highlight the potential of mutagenesis for crop improvement and genetic diversity enhancement in lentil breeding programs. Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations among key traits, and path coefficient analysis was used to identify traits with the most direct impact on seed yield.

Quinoa productivity and quality under irrigated conditions through crop establishment methods in Pakistan

AbstractQuinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is gaining global recognition for its nutritional benefits and adaptability to various environments. However, there is limited data on how different planting methods affect the productivity and quality of quinoa genotypes with varying panicle shapes, especially under irrigated conditions. We hypothesized that different crop establishment techniques influence the performance of quinoa genotypes in terms of phenology, weeds, growth, and yield aiming to enhance both yield and grain quality. To test this, a 2‐year field experiment (2021–2022 and 2022–2023) was conducted at Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan. The experiment used split‐plot design with three replications incorporating three sowing methods in main plots: ridge sowing (RS), line sowing (LS), and broadcasting (BC) and three quinoa genotypes with different panicle architectures: UAF‐Q7 (intermediate), Line‐105 (glomerulate), and Line‐22 (amarantiform) in subplots. Results indicated that LS method improved morphological and yield attributes like stem thickness, terminal panicle length and weight, grain yield, 1000‐grain weight, and biological yield compared to RS and BC. Among genotypes, Line‐105 showed superior performance in morphology, biomass, and yield, while UAF‐Q7 had higher grain protein content. Panicle number per plant showed positive correlation with terminal panicle weight, grain yield, 1000‐grain weight, and harvest index. LS also resulted in highest crop growth rate and grain quality. The study suggests that LS is a better planting technique and Line‐105 is a suitable genotype for achieving high grain yield under irrigated conditions.

Effect of varying levels of phosphorus and bio-fertilizers on growth and yield of chickpea under sub-tropical condition

A field experiment was conducted at the Crop Research Centre of School of Agriculture, ITM University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh during rabi 2021–22 and 2022–23 to study the influence of phosphorus and bio-fertilizers on growth and yield of chickpea under sub-tropical condition of Madhya Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (factorial experiment) by taking four levels of phosphorus, viz. 0 kg P2 O5 /ha, 30 kg P2 O5 /ha, 40 kg P2 O5 /ha, 50 kg P2 O5 /ha and bio-fertilizers (No inoculation, PSB (B. thuringiensis) @ 20 g/kg of seed, Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) @ 20 g/kg of seed PSB (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) which were replicated thrice. The chickpea variety “JG-16” was uniformly fertilized by 20 kg N/ ha through Urea. However, phosphorus and bio-fertilizers were applied as per the requirement of the treatments. The crop was managed as per the recommended package and practices. The experimental study revealed that among the phosphorus levels, the application of 50 kg P/ha recorded significantly highest plant height, number of nodules, shoot dry matter accumulation, number of primary and secondary branches. Further, it also produced highest seed, stover, biological yield and harvest index. Similar, result showed in N, P, K uptake. However, among the bio-fertilizers, application of Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium Mesorhizobium resulted in highest plant height, number of nodules, shoot dry matter accumulation, number of primary and secondary branches, seed and stover yield, biological yield and harvest index of chickpea. Application of 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus and combined treatment of Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) resulted in highest gross return, net return and Benefit: cost ratio.

Better growth and yield performance of lentil under different level of phosphorus,sulphur and zinc in sub-humid Southern plain of Rajasthan

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) to assess the impact of different levels of phosphorus, sulphur and zinc on growth parameters and yield of lentil. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and 18 treatment combinations. Phosphorus factor comprised of 3 levels, viz. 30, 40 and 50 kg P2 O5 /ha along with sulphur that comprised of 3 levels, viz. 15, 20 and 25 kg/ha; and zinc factor with 2 levels, viz. control and 0.5 % ZnSO4 foliar spray at 55 Days after sowing (DAS). Results revealed that the higher plant height, dry matter accumulation (DMA) and primary branches/plant were recorded with application of 40 kg P2 O5 /ha in combination of 25 kg/ha sulphur and foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 at 55 DAS. The dry matter accumulation (0.838**) and plant height (0.871**) had a significant and positive correlation with the seed yield. The crop growth rate (CGR) enlaced by 10.49% and root-shoot ratio by 7.21% with application of 40 kg P2 O5 /ha over 30 kg P2 O5 /ha. Similarly, the CGR and root-shoot ratio of lentil were significantly enhanced by 11.95 and 5.19%, respectively with 25 kg/ha over 15 kg/ha sulphur application at 60-90 DAS. Likewise, the significantly increased CGR by 5.09% and root-shoot ratio by 3.72% with application of 0.5% ZnSO4 as foliar spray over control. Moreover, the effective nodules increased by 22.68% and fresh and dry weight by 20.9 and 8.0% respectively with 50 kg P2 O5 /ha during both the years. The effective nodules and fresh and dry weight of nodules/ plant increased by 13.59, 12.68 and 6.52% respectively with 25 kg/ha over 15 kg/ha suphur application while it was increased by. 6.71%, the by 6.39 and 4.08% respectively with 0.5% foliar spray of ZnSO4 over control. Furthermore, significantly higher seed, haulm and biological yields increased by 9.34, 12.90 and 11.75%, respectively with 40 kg P2 O5 /ha followed by 50 kg P2 O5 /ha over 30 kg P2 O5 /ha. Similarly, the application of 25 kg/ha sulphur significantly enhanced seed yield, haulm and biological yields of lentil but it has no significant effect on the harvest index. The foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 increased the seed yield by 4.71 per cent, haulm yield by 7.30 per cent and biological yield by 6.45% over control. The plant growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of lentil were significantly enhanced with the application of P2O5 (40 kg/ha) and sulphur (25 kg/ha) along with ZnSO4 (0.5%) as foliar spray at 55 days after sowing as compared to other treatment combinations. These treatment combinations could be adopted to achieve better growth performances and bridging yield gap of lentil in sub-humid agro ecologies.

Effect of varying levels of phosphorus and bio-fertilizers on growth and yield of chickpea under sub-tropical condition

A field experiment was conducted at the Crop Research Centre of School of Agriculture, ITM University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh during rabi 2021–22 and 2022–23 to study the influence of phosphorus and bio-fertilizers on growth and yield of chickpea under sub-tropical condition of Madhya Pradesh. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (factorial experiment) by taking four levels of phosphorus, viz. 0 kg P2 O5 /ha, 30 kg P2 O5 /ha, 40 kg P2 O5 /ha, 50 kg P2 O5 /ha and bio-fertilizers (No inoculation, PSB (B. thuringiensis) @ 20 g/kg of seed, Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) @ 20 g/kg of seed PSB (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) which were replicated thrice. The chickpea variety “JG-16” was uniformly fertilized by 20 kg N/ ha through Urea. However, phosphorus and bio-fertilizers were applied as per the requirement of the treatments. The crop was managed as per the recommended package and practices. The experimental study revealed that among the phosphorus levels, the application of 50 kg P/ha recorded significantly highest plant height, number of nodules, shoot dry matter accumulation, number of primary and secondary branches. Further, it also produced highest seed, stover, biological yield and harvest index. Similar, result showed in N, P, K uptake. However, among the bio-fertilizers, application of Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium Mesorhizobium resulted in highest plant height, number of nodules, shoot dry matter accumulation, number of primary and secondary branches, seed and stover yield, biological yield and harvest index of chickpea. Application of 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus and combined treatment of Phosphate solubilizing bacteria (B. thuringiensis) + Rhizobium (Mesorhizobium) resulted in highest gross return, net return and Benefit: cost ratio.

Better growth and yield performance of lentil under different level of phosphorus,sulphur and zinc in sub-humid Southern plain of Rajasthan

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2020–21 and 2021–22 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan) to assess the impact of different levels of phosphorus, sulphur and zinc on growth parameters and yield of lentil. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and 18 treatment combinations. Phosphorus factor comprised of 3 levels, viz. 30, 40 and 50 kg P2 O5 /ha along with sulphur that comprised of 3 levels, viz. 15, 20 and 25 kg/ha; and zinc factor with 2 levels, viz. control and 0.5 % ZnSO4 foliar spray at 55 Days after sowing (DAS). Results revealed that the higher plant height, dry matter accumulation (DMA) and primary branches/plant were recorded with application of 40 kg P2 O5 /ha in combination of 25 kg/ha sulphur and foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 at 55 DAS. The dry matter accumulation (0.838**) and plant height (0.871**) had a significant and positive correlation with the seed yield. The crop growth rate (CGR) enlaced by 10.49% and root-shoot ratio by 7.21% with application of 40 kg P2 O5 /ha over 30 kg P2 O5 /ha. Similarly, the CGR and root-shoot ratio of lentil were significantly enhanced by 11.95 and 5.19%, respectively with 25 kg/ha over 15 kg/ha sulphur application at 60-90 DAS. Likewise, the significantly increased CGR by 5.09% and root-shoot ratio by 3.72% with application of 0.5% ZnSO4 as foliar spray over control. Moreover, the effective nodules increased by 22.68% and fresh and dry weight by 20.9 and 8.0% respectively with 50 kg P2 O5 /ha during both the years. The effective nodules and fresh and dry weight of nodules/ plant increased by 13.59, 12.68 and 6.52% respectively with 25 kg/ha over 15 kg/ha suphur application while it was increased by. 6.71%, the by 6.39 and 4.08% respectively with 0.5% foliar spray of ZnSO4 over control. Furthermore, significantly higher seed, haulm and biological yields increased by 9.34, 12.90 and 11.75%, respectively with 40 kg P2 O5 /ha followed by 50 kg P2 O5 /ha over 30 kg P2 O5 /ha. Similarly, the application of 25 kg/ha sulphur significantly enhanced seed yield, haulm and biological yields of lentil but it has no significant effect on the harvest index. The foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 increased the seed yield by 4.71 per cent, haulm yield by 7.30 per cent and biological yield by 6.45% over control. The plant growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of lentil were significantly enhanced with the application of P2O5 (40 kg/ha) and sulphur (25 kg/ha) along with ZnSO4 (0.5%) as foliar spray at 55 days after sowing as compared to other treatment combinations. These treatment combinations could be adopted to achieve better growth performances and bridging yield gap of lentil in sub-humid agro ecologies.

Growth and productivity of rapeseed and mustard cultivars as influenced by microclimatic interventions in Punjab

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2019–20 at Department of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to study the effect of uni-directional and bi-directional sowing and growth alterations on rapeseed and mustard cultivars. The growth parameters including yield parameters, oil content and chlorophyll content of different rapeseed and mustard cultivars were studied. It has been found that highest biological yield was observed in cultivar GSC-7 under East-West bi-directional planting method and detopping treatment performed better as compared to no detopping treatment. Significantly highest chlorophyll content was observed for GSC-6 cultivar in North-South direction under no detopping treatment.

Growth and productivity of rapeseed and mustard cultivars as influenced by microclimatic interventions in Punjab

A field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2019–20 at Department of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to study the effect of uni-directional and bi-directional sowing and growth alterations on rapeseed and mustard cultivars. The growth parameters including yield parameters, oil content and chlorophyll content of different rapeseed and mustard cultivars were studied. It has been found that highest biological yield was observed in cultivar GSC-7 under East-West bi-directional planting method and detopping treatment performed better as compared to no detopping treatment. Significantly highest chlorophyll content was observed for GSC-6 cultivar in North-South direction under no detopping treatment.

Application of Sulphur and Foliar Zinc at Different Growth Stages to Boost the Quality and Yield of Gobhi Sarson (Brassica napus L.) under Central Plain Region of Punjab, India

Background: A key element for the growth of oilseed crops is sulphur. It is required for the synthesis of vitamins, oilsand proteins. Compared to the organic form, inorganic sulphur is less common in agricultural soils. Zinc contributes significantly to the regulatory cofactors of many enzymes and proteins in many biochemical processes, which can aid in the oilseed crop’s high production. By 2025, there will be a 63% increase in Zn deficiency, up from 42% in 1970. Methods: A field experiment was conducted for two years (2022-2023 and 2023–2024) at Agronomy Research Field, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India, which comprises four zinc application (Dose @ 1.5 ml L-1) treatments viz., Z0-Control, Z1-1 appl. (one spray @ 15 DAS), Z2-2 appl. (two spray @ 15+45 DAS) and Z3-3 appl. (three spray @ 15+45+75 DAS)and four sulphur application treatments viz., S0-Control, S1 (10 kg ha-1), S2 (20 kg ha-1) and S3 (30 kg ha-1). Result: The seed yield, stover yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield of gobhi sarson were studied. The application of zinc and sulphur had significant effect on seed yield, stover yield, biological yield, oil content and oil yield. The maximum seed yield (2752 kg ha-1), stover yield (6841 kg ha-1), biological yield (9593 kg ha-1), oil yield (1112.40 kg ha-1) recorded under Z3-3 appl. (three spray @ 15+45+75 DAS) + S3 (30 kg ha-1) in comparison to other treatments. Application of sulphur 30 kg ha-1 recorded highest oil content and oil yield (40.25%, 962.32 kg ha-1) in comparison to S2-20 kg ha-1 (40.09%, 921.25 kg ha-1), S1-10 kg ha-1 (38.18%, 802.17 kg ha-1), S0-Control (36.21%, 689.17 kg ha-1.

Effectiveness of pre-emergence herbicides on weed population and yield of boro rice (cv. BRRI dhan58) under different dose

Weed management is crucial for optimal crop performance in rice cultivation. In this respect, an experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory (AFL), Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh, from December 2019 to May 2020 and aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of various herbicide treatments on weed management and crop performance in rice cultivation, focusing on the variety BRRI dhan58. The study included a control group and various herbicide treatments: half the recommended dose (RD), RD, and a double dose of pendimethalin, bensulfuron methyl + acetachlor, bensulfuron methyl + bispyribac sodium, pretilachlor, and butachlor. Eleven weed species from six families infested the plots. The results showed that double doses of pre-emergence herbicides resulted in lower weed populations (WP) (m-²), reduced weed dry weight (DW) (gm-2), and higher weed control efficiency (WCE %). The highest weed control efficiencies at 30 DAT were 94.58% for Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor and 94.38% for Pretilachlor. The double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor achieved the lowest WP and DW and the highest WCE. Crop performance improved significantly with the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor, resulting in the highest PH, a more significant number of effective tillers (NET) hill-1, 1000-grain weight (TGW), grain yield (GY), straw yield (SY), biological yield (SY), and harvest index (HI). The second-highest GY was observed with the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Bispyribac sodium. The study concluded that the double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor was the most effective weed management strategy, leading to the highest grain yield in boro rice. These findings highlight that using a double dose of Bensulfuron methyl + Acetachlor not only offers superior weed control but also maximizes grain yield, making it the most effective weed management strategy for boro rice cultivation and a practical recommendation for farmers seeking to optimize productivity through targeted herbicide application.

Effect of micronutrients on the growth and yield parameter of spring maize in Gauradaha, Nepal

Micronutrients, required in trace amounts, are crucial for crop growth and metabolic activities. Maize is susceptible to micronutrient deficiencies and exhibits hidden hunger symptoms when lacking essential nutrients. This study, conducted at Gauradaha Agriculture Campus, Jhapa, from January to June 2023, aimed to assess the impact of zinc (Zn), boron (B), and sulfur (S) on maize growth and yield. A single-factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) was used with seven treatments and three replications. Results revealed that the combined application of micronutrients with the recommended dose of NPK significantly enhanced maize growth and yield parameters. The T6 treatment (Zn 10 kg/ha + B 6 kg/ha + S 7 kg/ha with recommended NPK) produced the highest values for key growth indicators: leaf area, ear length (19.56 cm), ear diameter (6.24 cm), kernel rows per ear (15.72), grains per row (44.25), ear weight (17.65 tons/ha), biological yield (34.80 tons/ha), grain yield (12.68 tons/ha), and stover yield (3.39 tons/ha). Additionally, T4 (S 40 kg/ha with NPK) resulted in the highest test weight (438.33 g). Micronutrient application did not significantly affect plant height or the number of leaves. The study concludes that applying 10 kg/ha of Zn, 6 kg/ha of B, and 7 kg/ha of S with NPK significantly improves maize yield, demonstrating suitability for the local soil conditions and offering a practical approach to mitigate hidden hunger in maize.

Genetic Variability and Association Analysis for Various Quantitative Traits in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik. ssp. culinaris)

Background: Lentil (microsperma) is the earliest domesticated grain legume grown for its lens shaped seeds. The current study was carried out to assess genetic variability, trait association between seed yield and its attributing components and to assess the direct and indirect effects of various attributing components on seed yield. Methods: The current experiment evaluated hundred lentil germplasm lines with three checks in augmented design across two environments viz., timely sown (E1) and late sown (E2) during rabi 2022-23. The data was recorded on 11 quantitative traits and all the statistical analyses were done using R studio. Result: High PCV and GCV coupled with high heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean was observed for seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant, 100 seed weight and number of pods per plant suggesting that these traits are genetically controlled by additive gene action and their direct selection is effective. Path analysis revealed that biological yield per plant, harvest index, number of primary branches, seeds per pod and days to flowering were the highest positive direct contributors to the seed yield. Based on the observations of the present study, genotypes PL 105, LH 18-03, IPL 406, LH 18-38, LH 18-42, LH 18-45 and LH 18-46 were found to be better performing under timely sown conditions. Similarly, genotypes LH 09-18, LH 09-19, LH 09-20, LH 09-26, LH 09-27, WBL 77 and Kota Masoor 2 were found superior under late sown conditions.

Response of Soybean (Glycine max l.) to Potassium Fertilizer under Different Crop Geometry

An experiment was carried out at experimental cum demonstration field, SVIAg, SVVV, Indore during rabi 2023-24. The experiment consists of twelve treatment combinations with three main plot treatment (crop geometry) viz. C1: 30 cm x 20 cm, C2: 40 cm x 15 cm, and C3: 60 cm x 10 cm and K1: 0 kg K2O ha-1, K2: 20 kg K2O ha-1, K3: 40 kg K2O ha-1, and K4: 60 kg K2O ha-1 as four sub-plot treatments (potassium levels). Each experimental unit was replicated thrice having the gross plot size of 4.0 x 3.0 m2. Sowing of soybean at 30 cm x 20 cm spacing recorded maximum growth attributes, viz. plant height (40.92 cm) at harvest, number of branches plant-1 (10.66) at harvest, number of functional leaves (27.18) plant-1 at 60 DAS, dry matter accumulation plant-1 ( 22.64 g) at harvest, leaf area plant-1 (12.64 dm2) at 60 DAS, number of root nodules plant-1 (54.91) at 60 DAS and dry weight of root nodules (1.078 g) at 75 DAS, higher yield attributes such as number of pods (37.48) plant-1, number of seeds pods-1 (2.68), and number of seeds plant-1 (100.88 g). The highest seed yield (15.67 q ha-1), straw yield (24.01 q ha-1), and biological yield (39.68 q ha-1) was also observed under crop geometry of 30 cm x 20 cm. Sowing of soybean at 30 cm x 20 cm obtained higher gross monetary returns (₹ 78337.10 ha-1), net monetary returns (₹ 33714.05 ha-1) and B:C ratio (1.72). While in potassium levels, treatment application of 60 kg K2O ha-1 was recorded significantly higher growth parameters of soybean such as., plant height (43.22 cm) at harvest, number of branches (11.30) plant-1 at harvest, number of functional leaves (27.42) plant-1 at 60 DAS, leaf area (12.82 dm2) plant-1 at 60 DAS, dry matter accumulation plant-1 (23.13 g) at harvest, number of root nodules plants-1 (56.10) at 60 DAS, and dry weight of root nodules (1.103 g) at 75 DAS, yield parameters viz., number of pods (36.88) plant-1, number of seeds pods-1 (2.69) and number of seeds plants-1 (103.05), as compared to other potassium levels. Amongst the potassium levels 60 kg K2O ha-1 recorded significantly higher seed yield (16.34 q ha-1), straw yield (24.57 q ha-1) and biological yield (40.91 q ha-1) in contrast to the other potassium level. In potassium levels, higher gross monetary returns (₹ 81699.35 ha-1) and net monetary returns (₹ 34450.64 ha-1) were obtained under treatment 60 kg K2O ha-1 than rest of treatments with higher B:C ratio (1.69).