Block Design Research Articles

Evaluation of Phyto-extracts for the Management of Alternaria Leaf Blight of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsidis tetragonoloba L.) Caused by Alternaria cucumerina

The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of selected phyto-extracts for the management of alternaria leaf blight of cluster bean (Cyamopsidis tetragonoloba L.) caused by Alternaria cucumerina under field conditions. Three replications of cluster bean were planted in a randomized block design at the research plot of the Central Research Field, Department of Plant Pathology, SHUATS, Prayagraj during Zaid season of 2023. Ginger rhizome extract @ 10%, onion bulb extract @ 10%, eucalyptus leaf extract @ 10%, neem leaf extract @ 10%, garlic clove extract @ 10% and mancozeb 0.2% were applied as foliar spray. All the treatments were found significantly reduced the disease severity and increased the yield. Among all the treatments garlic clove extract @ 10% was recorded minimum disease intensity (29.63) and maximum yield (2.50 t/ha). Neem leaf extract @ 10% was recorded maximum cost benefit ratio (1: 1.80), as compared to treated mancozeb @ 0.2%(treated) and T0 control.

Assessing temporal variability in durum wheat performance and stability through multi-trait mean performance selection in Mediterranean climate

Durum wheat, a staple crop in Italy, faces substantial challenges due to increasing droughts and rising temperatures. This study examines the grain yield, agronomic traits, and quality of 41 durum wheat varieties over ten growing seasons in Southern Italy, utilizing a randomized complete block design. Notably, most varieties were not repeated between trials and 45% of the data was missing. The results indicate that the interaction between genotype and environment (GEI) significantly impacted all traits. High temperatures, elevated vapor pressure deficit (VPD), and water deficits severely affected yield and quality during warm years, while cooler years with favorable water availability promoted better growth and higher yields. Broad-sense heritability (H²) was generally low, suggesting that environmental factors played a major role in the observed traits. However, some traits, such as grain yield, ears per square meter, plant height, bleached wheat, thousand-grain weight, and hectoliter weight exhibited moderate to high heritability of the mean genotype (h²mg), indicating their potential for effective selection in breeding programs. Correlation analyses revealed strong connections between certain traits, such as protein content, and gluten index as well as between grain yield, and spike per square meter. Using the Multi-Trait Mean Performance Selection (MTMPS) index, the study identified six top-performing varieties. Among these, Antalis (G4) and Core (G18) consistently demonstrated strong adaptability and stability across different environments, particularly in hotter, drier conditions. Furio Camillo (G31) also exhibited valuable traits. This study highlights the challenges and complexities of breeding durum wheat for improved yield and quality in the face of climate change.

Genetic Divergence Analysis for Quantitative Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Germplasm under Irrigated Conditions

The present study was with the aim of knowing genetic divergence analysis for quantitative traits among the rice genotypes for agronomical and yield traits. The experimental material consists of 36 rice genotypes sown in a Randomized Block Design with three replications and observations recorded on randomly selected five plants for 13 quantitative traits. The results indicated that the genotype Nagarjuna shows greater yield among the genotypes. The genetic parameters show high GCV and PCV in grain yield per plant, and according to D2 analysis, the 36 genotypes were grouped into 6 clusters based on Tocher's method of cluster formation. Cluster I is the largest cluster, consisting of 29 genotypes, while Cluster II has 3 genotypes. Cluster III, IV, V, and VI were the smallest, with only a single genotype. The maximum intra-cluster distance was found in cluster II (39.19), followed by cluster I (30.15), and the maximum inter-cluster distance was shown in between cluster VI and cluster II (178.97), followed by cluster VI and cluster V (151.75). Based on cluster means, Cluster III (39.67) shows greater among 6 clusters for grain yield per plant as contributing the highest among all the quantitative characters. Hence, these traits could be focused on for selection while improving seed yield and seed quality. On the basis of their greater inter-cluster distance, high value of cluster means, and performance of the individual germplasms for the character, the germplasm could be used in improving seed yield and seed quality programs for improvement of different plant characters of the rice.

Pengaruh Campuraan Bakteri Pelarut Fosfat dan Bakteri Penambat Nitrogen terhadap Pertumbuhan Tanaman Jagung pada Lahan Kelapa Sawit (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Menghasilkan

Intercropped farming utilizez used open spaces as an alternative to making empty land more productive. In certain periods, oil palm plantations have open spaces that can be used for planting intercropped plants. The problem is, in general, that oil palm plantations are planted on marginal land, such as inceptisol that is weak in phosphate, so if they are planted with palm oil, it is necessary to provide fertilizer with the main macro element content for palms to grow optimally, such as phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N). Efforts can be made to meet the P and N requirements by applying combinations of microorganisms such as phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and nitrogen-fixing bacteria (NFB). The study aims to find out the effect of various dosages of PSB and NFB combinations on the growth and yield of corn crops, as well as the effect of corn crops on the growth and physiology of palm oil crops. The experiment was conducted at the Ciparanje Experimental Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Padjadjaran University, January to April 2024. The study used a randomized block design (RBD) with six treatments repeated four times. The treatments included the application of a combination of Pseudomonas sp. and Azotobacter sp., which included: 10 kg/ha of PSB and NFB per plant, 20 kg/ha of PSB and NFB per plant, 30 kg/ha of PSB and NFB per plant, 40 kg/ha of PSB and NFB per plant, and 50 kg/ha of PSB and NFB per plant. Experimental results showed that the PSB and NFB mixture increased crop height 5.28%, stem diameter 3.19%, cob length 9.2%, cob diameter 9.8%, dried weight by 100 seeds 14.5%, and dried weight by corn plant 33.46%. The 40 kg/ha and 50 kg/ha dose of PSB and NFB per plant is the most efficient dose for the growth and of palm oil crops producing 2.

First Report of Almond Decline Syndrome Caused by Neofusicoccum parvum in Italy

Almond (Prunus dulcis Mill. D. A. Webb) is considered a major crop in the Mediterranean countries. In Italy, almond orchards cover an area of 54,939 ha, with a yield of 82,146 t, with the cultivation widely distributed across several areas, such as southern regions. During the summer of 2023, 3-year-old almond plants cultivated in a commercial orchard in southern Piedmont (44°32’41.92’’ N; 7°57’25.7’’ E) showed wilting and sudden decline of the whole plant with an incidence of 15%. Main symptoms were cankers on the trunk characterized by a chocolate-brown discoloration of wood, cambium and even bark and occasional presence of gummy exudate. Symptomatic bark samples were rinsed with water, then blotted dry, and briefly soaked in ethanol for 15 s. Small pieces (5 × 5 mm) from the margin of necrotic areas were cut and placed on potato dextrose agar (PDA) plates amended with streptomycin sulphate (150 μg/ml). After incubation in the dark at 25 °C for 4 days fungal colonies emerging from the plated fragments were subcultured as monohyphal fungal cultures. They were fast-growing, turning from withish to smoky grey or grey-olivaceous after a week. Stromatic conidiomata were produced in pine needle agar, with pycnidia forming hyaline, globose to ellipsoidal, unicellular conidia, ranging in size from 16.9–17.3 μm × 5.4–5.6 μm. The causal agent was preliminary identified as Neofusicoccum sp. based on morphology. Two representative isolates (MTB3, MTC4) were identified by sequencing the ITS region and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1-α) gene with the primer pairs ITS1/ITS4 (White et al. 1990) and EF1-728F/EF1-986R (Carbone and Kohn 1999). The sequences of the two isolates were deposited in NCBI GenBank with accession numbers PP930646 / PP930647 (ITS), and PP933185 / PP933186 (TEF-1α). BLAST analysis revealed 99% similarity with reference sequences of Neofusicoccum parvum isolate CMW9081. A maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree was constructed using MEGA7 software based on the combined ITS and TEF1-α dataset. The phylogenetic tree demonstrated that the two isolates grouped with N. parvum in a clade with the ex-type CMW9081. The pathogenicity of both isolates was evaluated on 1-year-old ‘Vairo’ almond potted plants grafted on GF677 rootstock, to assess Koch’s postulate. For the inoculation, 5 mm in diameter mycelium plugs taken from a 7-days-old PDA culture were placed on the surface of fresh wounds made with a sterile cork-borer (5 mm-diameter) on the stem. Control plants were inoculated with sterile PDA plugs. The test was conducted twice. Three blocks of three plants per isolate and control were arranged in a randomized block design. All inoculated plants showed symptoms of shoot blight and cankers 2-weeks after inoculation. Additionally, gumming, pycnidia production and internal wood discoloration developed on the inoculation sites, with lesion length spreading for 16.8 ± 1.6 and 15.4 ± 3.0 cm for MTB3 and MTC4, respectively. Most of the plants died one month after inoculation. Control plants showed no symptoms. The pathogen was consistently reisolated from inoculated plants and the identity was confirmed through TEF-1α sequencing. Thus, results of Koch postulate clearly identify N. parvum as the etiological agent of the observed disease of almond in Piedmont. N. parvum was recently reported in the same area on hazelnut (Waqas et al. 2021) and blueberry (Guarnaccia et al. 2021), and as causal agent of band canker and branch dieback in almond trees in US and Spain (Moral et al. 2019). To our knowledge, this is the first report of N. parvum as the causal agent of almond decline syndrome in Italy. Considering the increasing of almond cultivation in Italy, this disease represents a threat for the future production.

Assessment of Genetic Diversity in Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) Using Metroglyph Analysis

Pulses like greengram are essential for sustainable agriculture and global food security due to their high protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, their genetic diversity is underexplored, with existing studies mainly focusing on conventional methods. This study aims to estimate the variability parameters for 16 quantitative characters of greengram to classify the genotypes using Metroglyph analysis and assess genetic divergence to identify divergent parents for future hybridization programs using 45 greengram genotypes using Randomized Block Design replicated thrice. Among 45 genotypes of greengram on the basis of mean performance MGG-351(12.959) followed by MGG-347(43.16 q/ha), VBN -2 (41.12 q/ha), GM-3(40.8 q/ha) and MGG-385(39.8 q/ha) were found superior for grain yield. High GCV and PCV is recorded for Harvest Index and Number of primary branches. High heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent of mean are recorded for number of primary branches, harvest index (%), number of seeds per pod, biological yield per plant, seed index, number of pods per plant, number of clusters per plant. On the basis of Metroglyph analysis, the total index score was varied from 24 (SHAKTI) to 38 (SIKHA) with a mean of 31.84. Among the 45 germplasm lines, the genotypes GM-3, MGG-385, SML-1663 and MGG-371were observed as high yielder and identified for higher index score. Scatter diagram plotted with Plant Height and Harvest Index has revealed that 5 clusters could be distinguished on the basis of morphological variation. Cluster -1 was represented by 24 genotypes, Cluster -2 was represented by 10 genotypes, Cluster-3 was represented by 7 genotypes, Cluster-4 was represented by 3 genotype, Cluster -5 was represented by 1 genotype. From those complexes, the germplasm lines, SIKHA and MGG-371 recorded high index score and fell into different cluster, hence used as parents in hybridization for getting desirable transgressive segregants.

Effect of Spacing and Ratooning on Growth and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) Var. Lal Bhendi No. 533

The experiment was laid down in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with nine treatment combinations and four replications during year 2023. The experiment consists of two factors, factor A: Spacings (S1- 60 cm x 30 cm, S2- 90 cm x 30 cm and S3- 120 cm x 30 cm) and factor B: Stages of ratooning (R1- Ratooning at 90 DAS, R2- Ratooning at 105 DAS and R3- No ratooning). Among the three spacings, 120 cm x 30 cm (S3) revealed higher values for growth parameters such as number of leaves (33.96), nodes (17.25), branches (1.42), yield parameters like number of fruits (24.37), yield per plant (304.31 g). The highest yield per hectare (15.07 t/ha) was obtained under closer spacing S1 - 60 cm x 30 cm. Among various ratooning treatments, number of fruits (25.33), yield per plant (315.98 g) and total yield (12.51 t/ha) was significantly higher in control (R3-No ratooning), the number of fruits (22.93), yield per plant (277.54 g) and total yield (10.99 t/ha) was greater in R1 than R2. Among ratooning treatment, R1 was better than R2 in terms of growth and yield characters. In interaction, spacing of 120 cm x 30 cm without ratooning (S3R3) was found better with respect to growth and yield of okra, whereas overall yield per hectare (16.53 t/ha) was greater in (S1R3) spacing 60 cm x 30 cm without ratooning. The data recorded in present investigation revealed that spacing and ratooning influenced the growth and yield parameters of okra. Thus, considering the yield of okra, spacing of 60 cm x 30 cm without ratooning found to be beneficial for Konkan agro-climatic conditions.

Respon Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Microgreens Beberapa Varietas Tanaman Caisim (Brassica juncea L.) pada Berbagai Jarak Tanam

The diminishing amount of land available for agriculture and the growing demand for nutritious food have made it necessary to find alternative sources of fresh vegetables. Urban farming, especially the cultivation of microgreens, can help meet this demand. Microgreens offer several advantages, such as time and cost savings, and they require minimal space while growing quickly. However, the optimal spacing for different types of microgreens is not extensively documented, as research on microgreens is still limited in Indonesia. The Brassicaceae family is one of the most commonly cultivated families for microgreens. This study was carried out at Room A, Faculty of Agriculture, Singaperbangsa Karawang University, Campus 2. The experimental method used was a factorial randomized block design (RBD Factorials) with two treatments for varieties and three for spacing, repeated five times, resulting in 30 experimental units. Factor I, Varieties, consisted of v1 (Tosakan) and v2 (Shinta). Factor II, Spacing, consisted of j1 (1 cm x 1 cm), j2 (1 cm x 2 cm), and j3 (2 cm x 2 cm). The data were analyzed using an analysis of variance (Uji F) at a 5% level. If the results of the analysis of variance were significantly different, the study continued with a multiple range test (DMRT) at a 5% level to determine the best-performing treatment. There was an interaction between the treatments for microgreen varieties and spacing on parameters such as plant density, dry weight of the plant, and fresh weight. There was a significant effect of the variety on the parameter of chlorophyll content, and a significant effect of spacing on the parameters of plant growth rate and the age of leaf appearance. Additional types of plants are needed to determine significant differences related to spacing and their interactions.

Effect of Optimization Use of Nutrient on Yield and Productivity of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.)

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of optimization use of nutrient on yield and productivity of mung bean, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum yield attributes such as number of pods per plant (13.35), number of seed per pod (8.52), grain yield (1170.55 kg/ha), stover yield (3260.47 kg/ha) and maximum net return (67329.45 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (2.28) was recorded with T8-100% RDF (Refuse-Derived Fuel) + Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1 + Rhizobium. The minimum yield and profitability obtained with control treatment. Therefore, conclude be application of 100% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1 + Rhizobium are indigenous sources of nutrient to enhance yield and productivity of mung bean.

Inter-row cover crops influencing the development of conilon coffee

The use of forage as a cover crop is an alternative for the sustainable management of conilon coffee (Coffea canephora Pierre ex Froehner) crops. The objective of this study was to evaluate the herbage accumulation and nutritive value of forages used as cover crops and their effect on the productivity and physiology of conilon coffee plants. The inter-row management assessed were 1- Congo grass [Urochloa ruziziensis (R. Germ. & C.M. Evrard) Crins], 2- Mombaça guineagrass [Megathyrsus maximus (Jacq.) B.K. Simon & S.W.L. Jacobs], 3- Marandu palisadegrass [Urochloa brizantha (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) R.D.Webster], 4- weeds, 5- weeding and herbicide application. The experiment was conducted in 2020 and 2021 using a randomized block design (split-plot) with four replications and a plot size of 24 m2. Herbage accumulation of Congo grass, Mombaça guineagrass and Marandu palisadegrass (1.12 to 3.81 t/ha) were higher than weeds (0.18 to 1.95 t/ha) in seven periods evaluated. Mombaça guineagrass had the highest average herbage accumulation (1.47 to 3.81 t/ha). The forage cover crops did not differ among themselves for dry matter concentration, crude protein and C:N ratio in three periods evaluated. The inter-rows management with cover crops did not reduce productivity, grain/fruit ratio, grain size, vegetative vigour and physiology of the coffee plants compared to the management with weeding and herbicide in 2021. In 2022, they stagnated or reduced productivity by up to 49%, with changes in plant physiology. Adjustments in the management of cover crops are needed for the development of competitive and sustainable coffee crops.

Optimizing Water Productivity through the Conjunctive Use of Borewell and Canal Water for Enhancing Sheep Productivity in Arid Climate of Western Rajasthan, India

In the arid regions of Rajasthan, water scarcity poses a significant challenge to both agriculture and livestock productivity. Sustainable practices in such climates require effective management of limited water resources. This study focuses on optimizing water productivity through the conjunctive use of canal water and borewell water to address the problem of water scarcity while maximizing output per unit of water. The experiment involved eighteen healthy lambs of aged 2-3 months which were managed intensively and divided into three groups of six lambs each based on a randomized block design. All groups were fed Pennisetum glaucum (pearl millet) and Medicago sativa (lucerne) ad-libitum along with concentrates adjusted according to their body weights. The groups were offered three types of drinking water: canal water (G1), a combination of canal and borewell water (G2) and borewell water (G3) in a clean bucket twice a day. No significant effect on total feed intake and body weight of the lambs was found based on the drinking water source. However, G1 and G2 lambs, which were offered canal water, consumed significantly (p<0.05) less water (74.4 ± 1.84 liters) compared to the lambs in G3 (81.6 ± 1.91 liters). The virtual water requirement per kilogram of weight gain, calculated from both direct water intake and indirect intake through feed was lowest in G1 lambs (5771.34 liters) followed by G2 lambs (6129.00 liters) and G3 lambs (6312.00 liters) per kilogram of weight gain, respectively. These results indicate that water productivity was highest with canal water (G1) and lowest with borewell water (G3) per kilogram of weight gain. This study underscores the importance of efficient water management in maximizing productivity and resource use efficiency in water-limited arid regions.

Effect of Organic Manures and Biofertilizers on Yield Attributes, Yield and Economics of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata)

Background: Pulses are significant in India's agricultural economy not only for their worth as human food, but also for animals because of their high protein content. Pulses have unique ability of maintaining and restoring soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation as well as addition of ample amount of residues to the soil. Mung bean, also known as green gram (Vigna radiata) is a small green, and cylindrical-shaped legume that is widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including India, China, and Southeast Asia. Methods: The present study was carried out during the summer season of 2024 at Research Farm, School of Agriculture, OM Sterling Global University, Hisar. Seven treatment combinations comprising organic manures and biofertilizers were tested in randomized block design in three replications. Result: The results revealed that the yield and yield attributes viz., number of pods per plant (15.90), length of pod per plant (10.76 cm), number of seed per pod (11.05), 1000 grain weight per plant (37.00 g) and seed yield (1197 kg ha-1); Economics viz., gross returns (128212 ₹ ha-1), cultivation (43823 ₹ ha-1), net returns (86189 ₹ ha-1) and benefit-cost ratio (3.05) were maximum in the treatment of Jeevamrutha @ 3000 l ha-1 through three splits at sowing, 30 and 45 DAS + Rhizobium +PSB. Whereas, significantly minimum for all above parameters were recorded under control.

Unveiling the Spectacular Performance of Diverse Chrysanthemum Varieties in Flowering, Quality and Yield

A comprehensive research initiative conducted in Jhalawar 2019-20 focused on evaluating the genetic diversity and performance of various chrysanthemum varieties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic variability and assess the varietal performance of chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev) under the specific agro-climatic conditions of Jhalawar. The study sought to identify high-performing varieties and quantify key genetic traits relevant to yield and quality characteristics, with the goal of supporting selection efforts for enhanced chrysanthemum production in the region. This investigation was conducted at the Floriculture and Landscaping block of the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar, Rajasthan. The experimental work was carried out during the winter season of the year 2019-20, capitalizing on the local climate to evaluate varietal responses under Jhalawar conditions. The experiment employed a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with multiple replications to ensure robust data. Different chrysanthemum varieties were planted in designated plots, and observations on traits such as flower yield, flower quality, and growth parameters were recorded periodically. Statistical analysis, including ANOVA, was performed to detect significant differences among the varieties. This analysis helped in identifying high-performing varieties suited for Jhalawar conditions and provided insights into genetic variability for potential selection and breeding programs. Ten different genotypes were carefully chosen for the study, including Marigold, Poornima Pink, Dall White, Calcutta Shantini, Karnool, Poornima Red, Dall Yellow, Poornima White, Poornima Yellow and Dundi for in-depth analysis.A randomised block design with three replications was used in the experiment. Cultivar 'Calcutta Shantini' exhibited the maximum days taken to first flower bud emergence of plant (51.50 days) and the maximum number of flowers per plant (269.90). Conversely, cv. 'Dall Yellow' showed the shortest duration to fifty percent flowering (67.64 days). Notably, cv. 'Dundi' displayed the maximum flower diameter (7.47 cm), while cv. 'Poornima Pink' had the longest flower stalk (13.09 cm). Remarkably, cv. 'Marigold' demonstrated the highest flower fresh weight (63.67 gm), dry weight (14.41 gm), and shelf life (4.67 day).

Respon Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Beberapa Tanaman Microgreens Famili Brassica terhadap Jenis Media Tanam

This research aims to determine the growth of Brassica plant species under various planting media. The study was conducted in a room at Building A, Faculty of Agriculture, Campus 2, Universitas Singaperbangsa Karawang, in Margasari Village, East Karawang District, Karawang Regency, West Java. The experiment took place from April to May 2024. The research method employed a Randomized Block Design with a factorial pattern consisting of two factors. The first factor is the Brassica family (t), divided into three levels, while the second factor is the planting media (m), also divided into three levels. There were a total of nine treatments, each repeated three times, resulting in 27 experimental units. Each unit contained seven plant samples. The effects of treatments were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and if the F-test at the 5% significance level was significant, a post hoc Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was conducted. The experimental results showed an interaction between Brassica family and planting media on growth parameters, including plant height growth rate, leaf emergence age, fresh weight, and dry weight. Cabbage plants grown in soil yielded the best results in terms of fresh weight, while purple cabbage plants grown in cocopeat media performed best in terms of dry weight. Radish plants grown in peatmoss media exhibited the best growth rate, leaf emergence age, fresh weight, and dry weight. Broccoli plants grown in soil showed the best results in terms of leaf emergence age, while broccoli plants in cocopeat media excelled in fresh weight.

Effect of nutrient omission on grain and biomass yield of irrigated wheat (triticum aestivum) in Sekota district, Amhara region, Ethiopia

Abstract The Ethiopian government has recently imported and distributed multi-nutrient fertilizers for farmers' use without sufficient research finding. Selecting the appropriate fertilizers based on the actual limiting plant nutrients is crucial for providing timely policy direction to import only fertilizers that could limit crop yield. A field study was carried out to identify the yield-limiting plant nutrients for wheat under irrigation at two farmer’s fields in the Woleh irrigation scheme of the Amhara region of Ethiopia in the 2022 irrigation season. A total of nine treatments, including control, NPSKZnB (all), NPSKZn (all-B), NPSKB (all-Zn), NPKZnB (all-S), NPSZnB (all-K), NKSZnB (all-P), PKSZnB (all-N), and RNP (all-KSZnB), were arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCRD) with three replications. The Kekeba wheat variety was used as a test crop. The collected grain and biomass yield data were analized by using SAS software following the procedure. The analysis of result showed that the application of fertilizer had a significant effect on wheat grain yield. The highest grain yield (4443.5 kg ha-1) was obtained from NPKZnB (All-S). While the lowest grain yield was obtained from the control and nitrogen omitted treatment. There was no significant difference between and among the treatments except Control, All-N, and All-P. The grain yield was reduced by 3181.6 kg ha-1 when N was omitted and 1817.8 kg ha-1 when P was omitted over All-S (NPKZnB). This showed that nitrogen and phosphorous are yield-limiting plant nutrients for wheat under irrigation in the study area. Therefore, the government should give emphasis to nitrogen- and phosphorous-containing fertilizers to increase wheat yield.

MORPHOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF PIGEON PEA [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] ACCESSIONS FOR AGRONOMIC TRAITS IN ASSOSA DISTRICT, NORTHWESTERN ETHIOPIA

<p><strong>Background:</strong> Pigeon pea is a tropical grain legume being cultivated as important pulses for human food, feed and soil fertility improvement. Pigeon pea research in terms of crop improvement is still at a low level in Ethiopia. <strong>Objective: </strong>To estimate the Genetic variability of pigeon pea accessions with respect to important qualitative and quantitative traits and select high yielding grain and promising traits for variety development. <strong>Methodology</strong>: Treatments consisted in twenty two pigeon pea accessions (MPG1, MPG2, MPG3, MPG4, MPG5, MPG6, MPG7, MPG8, MPG9, MPG10, MPG11, MPG12, MPG13, MPG14, MPG15, MPG16, MPG17, MPG18, MPG19, MPG20, MPG21 and MPG22) collected from Assosa area. Treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. <strong>Results:</strong> Qualitative characteristics recorded for accessions showed different modalities and frequencies at vegetative growth stage with the qualitative traits dominated were semi-spreading growth habit 65 %, leaflet shape with lanceolate 70 %, color about 44 % of the accessions exhibited yellow, seed size where 55 % accounted large sized, seed color pattern: 52% of accessions showed plain, pod color where 56 % genotypes had purple, seed with red dominated was 50 % and 71 % of accessions had totally pigmented pod. With respect to quantitative traits, genotypes accessions MPG11 and MPG15 had relatively higher grain yield (> 4000 kg/ ha) with the highest grain yield recorded for genotype MPG18. <strong>Implications:</strong> The investigation of the present study for morphological evaluation of genotype Pigeon pea exhibited genetic variability among accession. <strong>Conclusion</strong>: Agronomic traits such as plant height, branches per plant, pods per plant, seeds per pod, pod length, pod width, hundred seed weight and grain yield for accessions were exhibited significant differences which suggest high yielding accessions could be directly recommended for production while others could be utilized effectively to develop high yielding varieties through hybridization followed by selection. </p>

The Effect of Border Crops and Physical Barriers on Incidence of Chilli Leaf Curl Complex and Associated Insect Populations

Chilli Leaf Curl (CLC) possesses a significant biotic threat leading to substantial yield losses in chilli cultivation. Various agents such as thrips, aphids, mites and the viruses transmitted by whiteflies have been identified as contributors to CLC. In order to mitigate this issue, three types of physical barriers were used: an insect-proof net (1 m high) surrounded by three rows of maize crops, an insect-proof net (1 m high) alone, and three rows of maize crops. A control was maintained without a physical barrier. The experiment was laid out as randomized complete block design with three replicates. Identification of pests and diseases, CLC disease incidence and yield attributes were assessed. Results revealed that the treatment with an insect-proof net combined with a maize border exhibited the lowest disease incidence (2±0.45, p=0.01) compared to chilli plants with a maize border only. The whitefly population varied across the treatments (p=0.03) and with the age of the crop (p<0.0001). Among the treatments, the control and insect-proof net exhibited a significantly lower population of whiteflies. Thrips did not show a significant response to the treatments (p=0.54) indicating that the presence of physical barriers had no notable effect on thrips counts. Additionally, there was no significant difference in the number of pods per plant (p=0.74) and yield per plant across the treatments (p=0.54). In conclusion, the use of insect-proof net with a maize border surrounding the chilli cultivation would help to develop integrated pest management strategies to reduce chilli leaf curl incidence as well as whitefly population.

Zoysia spp. putting green tolerance to postemergence herbicides

AbstractSpecies of Zoysia Willd. are used on approximately 9550 ha of golf course surfaces throughout the United States, primarily fairways and tees in transitional climates. Recently, cultivars featuring dwarf canopy height and improved quality have been released for putting green use; however, tolerance of these cultivars to postemergence herbicides is unknown. Field research was conducted in 2021 and 2022 evaluating the tolerance of Prizm® [Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr.] and Lazer® [Z. matrella (L.) Merr. × Zoysia minima (Colenso) Zotov] zoysiagrass to pyrimisulfan + penoxsulam (Aethon™), pyrimisulfan (Arkon™), flazasulfuron (Katana®), 2,4‐D + quinclorac + dicamba + sulfentrazone (Q4® Plus), 2,4‐D + MCPP + dicamba + carfentrazone (SpeedZone® EW), 2,4‐D + MCPP + dicamba + sulfentrazone (Surge®), and pyrimisulfan (formulated as a granule; Vexis®). A nontreated check was included for comparison. All of these herbicides have commercial labeling for use on zoysiagrass (Zoysia Willd.); however, none of these herbicides have labeling for use on zoysiagrass putting greens. Application rates in this study exceeded label maximums (for use on zoysiagrass) to ascertain the upper limits of Prizm® and Lazer® tolerance to these herbicides in Knoxville, TN and College Station, TX, respectively. Plots were arranged in randomized complete block design with four replications at both sites. Turfgrass injury was visually evaluated with data subjected to analysis of variance. Prizm® in Tennessee exhibited commercially acceptable tolerance to the applied herbicides, resulting in ≤8% injury either year. Lazer® in Texas sustained injury ranging from 21% to 61% and 10% to 31% in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Conditions of extreme heat and drought in Texas may have exacerbated differences in Lazer® tolerance to applied herbicides between years. Additional research across varying geographies and environmental conditions is needed to better understand tolerance of new zoysiagrass putting green lines, particularly within Z. minima.

Impact of Combining Bio-Inoculants along with Inorganic Fertilizers on Soil Biological Characteristics in Transplanted Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Crop

A field experiment was carried out during the Kharif season in the year 2022 to assess the impact of inorganic fertilizers along with Bio-inoculants on soil biological properties in rice (Oryza sativa L.). The experiment consists of seven treatments viz., T1 Control, T2 100% RDF (150, 60, 40 N2, P2O5, K2O kg ha-1), T3 80% RDF + 10 kg BGA ha-1 Soil application + PSB (Phosphate solubilizing bacteria) 3kg/ha, T4 60% RDF + 10kg BGA ha-1 Soil application + PSB, T5 80% RDF + 500kg Azolla ha-1 Soil application +PSB, T6 60% RDF + 500kg Azolla ha-1 Soil application +PSB and T7 10kg BGA ha-1 Soil application + 500kg Azolla ha-1 Soil application + PSB were comprised in Randomized Block Design with three replication. The incorporation of inorganics, Azolla PSB, and BGA (bio-inoculants) actively activated microbial activities, resulting in a greater increase in the populations of total bacteria, actinomycetes, and fungi was observed throughout all growth stages, regardless of the treatments applied, when compared to their initial densities. This phenomenon supports the notion of a stronger rhizosphere effect. This trend aligns with the rise in organic carbon content. Moreover, soil dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase activities, along with microbial biomass carbon, displayed an upward trend in tandem with the progressive growth phases of the rice plant.

Drought Stress Screening in Backcross Inbred Lines of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) at Germination and Seedling Stage

Drought is a key stress factor that limits rice production globally. The present study was carried out to identify drought tolerant rice lines at the germination and seedling stages using polyethylene glycol (PEG) induced stress. Twenty promising high yielding BC2F4 lines, stacked with drought yield QTLs qDTY₁⸳₁ and qDTY₁₂.₁, derived from the cross between Manu Ratna X Improved White Ponni, were subjected to drought stress. Drought was imposed during germination using three levels (0, 10 and 15%) of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) concentrations. The experiment was conducted in factorial completely randomized block design with three replications and the observations on number of seeds germinated, root length, shoot length, germination index, germination stress tolerance index, fresh weight stress tolerance index, dry weight stress tolerance index and seedling vigour index were evaluated after stress treatment. A significant difference was noted among lines for characters under drought stress. Among the lines, MIB-29-2-3-1, MIB-29-8-5-35, MIB-43-5-3-66 and MIB-119-5-7-33 were selected which showed higher germination percentage, root length, shoot length, germination stress tolerance index and and seeding vigour index. The selected lines can be further evaluated in the field to develop drought tolerant rice varieties.