Department Of Horticulture Research Articles

The Influence of Container Types and Potting Media on the Biometric, Phenological and Yield Parameters of Strawberry Cv. Winter Dawn

Strawberry being an annual herbaceous plant with delicious fruit can be easily grown in a container filled with a potting media and suitable for growing in terrace garden or rooftop gardening in urban areas where the area for cultivation is less. This intends to augment the farmer’s income and increase the overall production of strawberry. The study was conducted in the experimental field, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.) during 2023-2024. The aim of the experiment was to determine the effect of container types and potting media on the biometric, phenological and yield parameters of strawberry cv. Winter Dawn. The experiment was laid out according to a factorial completely randomized block design. Observations on the biometric, phenological, and yield parameters of each plant were recorded during the study. The result of the statistical analysis revealed that among all the combinations of potting media, the combination of cocopeat, perlite and vermicompost in the ratio of 1:1:2 was found to be superior. Better biometric, phenological, and yield parameters were observed in plants grown in earthen pots. Based on the interaction effect, plants raised in PVC pots with a growing media ratio of 1:1:2 cocopeat + perlite + vermicompost (C2M1) result in maximum plant height (18.10 cm), plant spread (16.10 cm), number of leaves (26.67), number of fruits per plant (15.91) and total yield per plant (341.00 g). The study revealed that the minimum days to initiate first flower (47.10), flowering to harvest duration (27.67) and days to first fruiting (68.13) was reported in C2M1: PVC pots {(cocopeat + Perlite + Vermicompost) (1:1:2)}. Thus, strawberry production using cocopeat + perlite + vermicompost in 1:1:2 ratio in PVC Pots will ensure greater success in plant establishment and produce healthy and disease-free strawberries.

Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies in Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Under Agro-Climatic Condition of Prayagraj

The present study assesses the extent of genetic variability and correlation in 12 different genotypes of chillies for various compositional and yield properties for identifying predominant genotypes for involvement in coming breeding programs. One of India's most significant crops for both vegetables and spices is the chilli. In the world, India is the top producer of dried chili. Around the world, people utilize chilli as a spice and to make drinks and medications. Since the beginning of time, curry has been an essential component of Indian cuisine. The field trial was conducted from December 2022 to June 2023 at the Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.), India. There is a great need and opportunity to assess and create location-specific cultivars with increased production potential. Twelve distinct genotypes of chillies were gathered from various regions of India for this inquiry in order to examine how well they performed in the Prayagraj agroclimatic conditions. The genetic data on yield and attributes associated with yield would be useful in developing a productive breeding program to enhance the chilli crop and create genotypes and hybrids that show promise.

Effect of FYM and Different Levels of Panchgavya on Growth and Establishment of Papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Red Lady

Today, with the advancement of environment pollution and health that is obtained from the improper use of inorganic fertilizer, production and use of organic fertilizer is considered as an important approach in the field of soil science in the world’s interest to investors. Research was conducted during the period 2023 on central research farm of department of horticulture, (NAI) SHUATS, Prayagraj. Field trial was designed on Randomized Block Design with three replications and ten treatments. Seedling were raised in polybag and 45 days old seedling were transplanted to the main field. Manure and fertilizer were applied as per treatment in ten equal split doses at 30,60 and 90days intervals. The treatment T9 (RDF) FYM+ Panchgavya (90ml/l) registered significantly maximum vegetative growth, chlorophyll content and survivality %. On the basis of our experimental findings, it can be concluded that the best result was found in treatment T9 (RDF) FYM+ Panchgavya (90ml/l) in term of vegetative growth parameters viz., plant height (cm), Number of leaves per plant, stem diameter (mm), leaf area (cm2) and root to shoot ratio, leaf area index (LAI), chlorophyll content and survivality % of papaya (Carica papaya L.) cv. Red lady.

Evaluation of Different Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Hybrids for Growth, Yield and Quality

Cucumber is a popular vegetable belonging to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It is widely cultivated and consumed worldwide for its refreshing and crunchy texture. Cucumbers are typically grown as annual climbing or creeping vines, producing elongated, cylindrical, or oval-shaped fruits with green skin and edible seeds. They are known for their high-water content, making them an excellent hydrating and low-calorie food option. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Therefore, the present investigation was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during the Kharif season 2022-2023 with a view to check performance of different Hybrids of cucumber under Prayagraj agro climatic conditions. From the above experimental finding it was be concluded that the Hybrid NBH-842 was statistically significant and higher in terms of growth parameters like vine length, earliness in flowering and maturity and variety NBH-842 yield parameters like fruit weight and fruit yield per vine while NBH-Manvi plus for fruit length, fruit diameter, and fruit yield per vine. Hybrid Prasad-100 showed best performance for quality parameters including TSS and Vitamin C content.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)

The present investigation was carried out at the Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during Kharif 2021-22 with a view to identify the effects of different doses of plant growth regulators on growth, yield and quality of Tomato variety TMTH-288. The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 13 treatments and 3 replications with different combination in nano fertilizers. Under this experiment, overall, 13 combinations was taken including control. PGRs comprised of GA3, 2,4-D, Triacontanol and NAA were given. According to the current research, the current study found that the use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) had a significant positive impact on the growth and yield of tomato. Among the treatments tested, T3 (GA3 40 ppm) showed the most favorable results in terms of plant height, early flowering and maturing. It also demonstrated superior performance in terms of fruit weight, polar and radial length of fruit, number of fruits per plant, and yield per plant.

Effect of Fruit Bagging on the Yield and Quality of Rainy Season Guava (Psidium guajava) cv Allahabad Safeda

The present experiment was conducted at Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj during the session 2022 - 2024. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design, and the study consists of eight treatments with three replications including control. From the present investigation, it was concluded that bagging had significant effect on fruit characters in guava. The best treatment was T3 (Yellow Polythene) which shows highest values in all the parameters viz fruit characters (fruit weight-192.09g, fruit girth- 6.39 cm, fruit diameter-6.53cm, pulp weight-74.91g, pulp percentage-89.06%, seed weight-6.22g, seed percentage-5.71% & specific gravity-1.23), quality attributes (TSS -15.32 0Brix, acidity- 0.40%, vitamin C- 161.99 mg/100g, TSS/acid ratio-37.64). Increased fruit yield and quality might be due to the increased absorption of sunlight & favorable microclimate created due to bagging.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Growth, Yield and Quality of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)

Chili peppers are fruit-bearing plants from the Capsicum genus, and they are known for their spicy and pungent flavors. Chili peppers thrive in warm climates and can be grown in various types of soil. They are typically cultivated as annual plants, although some varieties can be perennial in suitable conditions Therefore, the present investigation was carried out at the Central Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during Kharif 2021-22 with a view to identify the effects of different doses plant growth regulators and its role in growth, yield and quality of Chilli variety TMPH-443. The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 13 treatments and 3 replications with different combination in plant growth regulators. Under this experiment, overall, 13 treatment was taken including control. Different plant growth regulators (PGRs) used comprised of NAA, GA3, 2-4 D and Triacontanol all four at different doses. According to the current research, the use of Plant growth regulators (PGRs) had a significantly positive impact on the growth and development of Chillies. Among the various treatments that were evaluated, T5 (NAA @ 40 ppm spray) yielded the most favourable results in terms of growth viz., plant height, leaf area, early flowering and maturation and yield viz., fruit weight, length of fruit, fruit girth, number of fruits per plant, and yield per plant.

Effect of Different Quantities of Bio Stimulant on Chilli Growth, Quality and Yield

A present investigation was carried out with title “Effect of different quantities of bio stimulant on chilli growth, quality and yield” at the central research farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh during kharif, 2023-24 with a view to identify the effects of different doses of bio stimulant and its role in growth, yield and quality of Chilli variety NS-1701. The experiment was laid in the randomized block design with 9 treatments and 3 replications with different combination of different quantities of bio stimulant. The treatment T7 (3.0 L/hac. Amalgerol essence) performed best in terms of plant height (79.68), number of branches (8.53), days to first flower initiation (79.30), number of fruits per plant (122.36), fruit length (7.81), individual fruit weight (2.90gm), fruit yield per plant (258.13gm). The highest benefit cost ratio was found at 3.69 in the same treatment.

Effect of different levels of nitrogen in combination with nano urea on growth and yield of crossandra (crossandra infundibuliformis l.) cv. lakshmi

An experiment was carried out during the year 2022-2024 in the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University Tamil Nadu to find out the suitable level of nitrogen to be used in combination with nano urea to increase the growth and yield of crossandra (Crossandra infundibuliformis L.) cv. Lakshmi. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 14 treatments and 3 replications. Among the different treatments, the treatment T5 (100% PK + 75% N through urea + 0.4% Nano urea (3 sprays)) resulted in increased growth attributes such as plant height (85.21 cm), stem girth (7.95 cm), number of branches plant-1 (24.51), number of leaves plant-1 (99.29), plant spread in North-South and East-West direction (53.52 cm and 62.43 cm respectively), leaf area (95.41cm2 ), chlorophyll content (0.840 mg g-1 ) and dry matter production (91.53 g plant-1 ). But, the treatment T8 (100% PK + 50% N through urea + 0.4% Nano urea (3 sprays)) resulted in increased yield attributes like maximum number of spikes plant-1 (36.27),number of flowers spike-1 (39.21), flower yield plant -1 (51.03 g),flower yield plot-1 (974.76 g plot-1 ), estimated flower yield hectare-1 (32.49 q ha-1 ) The treatment control (T1) had the lowest value for all the growth and yield attributing characters. Overall, it is concluded that the application of 100% PK + 50% N through urea + 0.4% Nano urea (3 sprays) (T8) was found to be the best combination for improving the growth and yield of crossandra.

Evaluating micronutrients effects on yield and quality attributes of chrysanthemum (Dendrathemum Grandiflorum Tzeuleu) cv.CO1

The field experiment was conducted in the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, and Tamil Nadu in chrysanthemum (Dendrathemum grandiflorum Tzeuleu) cv.CO 1. The experimental site situated approximately 6 km west of the Bay of Bengal, positioned at 11o 24' North latitude and 79o 41' East longitude, with an altitude of +5.79 meters above mean sea level. The maximum mean temperature range from 29.7ºC to 38.3ºCwith a mean of 32.4ºC, while the minimum temperature range from 21.10ºC to 27.0ºC with a mean value of 25.3ºC. Its receives an annual rainfall of 1500 mm with a relative humidity of 85%. From the results, it can be concluded that soil application of micronutrients mixture @12.5 kg ha-1 in split as basal, 25, 50 and 75 DAT was found to have beneficial effect on yield and quality attributes of chrysanthemum.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on Growth, Yield and Quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) cv. ‘Arka Anamika’

The present investigation was carried out at Agricultural Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, S.G.V.U., Jaipur (Rajasthan) to study the effect of INM on growth, yield and quality of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) cv. ‘Arka Anamika’ during Rabi season of the year 2022-23. The experiment was laid down in RBD which consisted 9 treatment combinations viz; Control (T0), 100% RDF (T1), 100% RDF + Vermicompost @5t/ha (T2), 100% RDF + Poultry manure @2t/ha (T3), 100% RDF + Neem cake @2t/ha (T4), 50% RDF + Vermicompost @5t/ha (T5), 50% RDF + Poultry Manure @2t/ha (T6), 50% RDF + Neem cake @2t/ha (T7), 50% RDF + Vermicompost @5t/ha + Poultry Manure @2t/ha + Neem cake @2t/ha (T8) and treatments were replicated three times. Appraisal of the result indicated that the influence of organic and inorganic fertilizers on important parameters like vegetative growth, yield and quality of Okra were significantly influenced by INM under local agro climatic conditions. The treatment (T8) had a significant effect on various vegetative growth, yield and quality parameters, and the results revealed that the maximum plant height plant height at 30, 60 and 90 DAS, leaves per plant, days taken to 50% flowering, flowers per plant, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit per plant, fruit yield, TSS, Ascorbic acid and Titrable Acidity (%) were recorded in T8. The minimum values of growth, yield and quality parameters were recorded in the control (T0). Results further indicated that the highest (3.06) benefit: cost ratio was observed in T8. Whereas, the lowest benefit: cost ratio (1.07) was recorded under control.

Prevalence of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes in Horticultural Fields of Assam Agricultural University: Jorhat Campus, India

A random survey of the horticultural crops was conducted to assess the nematode community structure in the Experimental field of Department of Horticulture, AAU, Jorhat during Rabi and Kharif season, 2022-2023. Soil and root samples, representing 200 locations were examined. Analysis of 200 soil and root samples collected from the root rhizosphere of different vegetable, fruit and ornamental crops showed the presence of root-knot nematode(Meloidogyne incognita), reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis), root-lesion nematode (Pratylenchus spp.), lance nematode (Hoplolaimus spp.), spiral nematode (Helicotylenchus spp.), stunt nematode (Tylenchorhynchus spp.) along with Criconema spp., Xiphinema spp, Longidorus spp., free-living nematodes, mycophagous nematodes and predatory nematodes. Among all the isolated plant-parasitic nematodes, root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) was found to be more abundant with prominence value of 136.7, 81.3 and 76.3 in vegetable crops, fruit crops and ornamental crops, followed by Helicotylenchus spp. and Rotylenchulus reniformis. The prominence value of reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) was found to be 90.5, 54.1 and 54.1 in vegetable crops, fruit crops and ornamental plants respectively.

Rapid Multiplication of Geographical Indication (GI) Tagged Mysore Mallige (Jasminum azoricum L.) Using Single Node through In vitro Culture

Aims: The present study was undertaken to rapid multiplication of (GI) tagged Mysore Mallige (Jasminum azoricum L.) using single node through in vitro culture. Study Design: The present study follow Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra, Bengaluru, from 2020 to 21. Methodology: Single node cutting from the young shoots of field growing plants were used as explants to conduct the experiment. The explants were sterilized and placed on MS medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of growth regulators, namely BAP and Kinetin. Results: Among the different combinations of growth regulators, the combination of BAP 1.5 mg L-1 and Kin 1.5 mg L-1 produced maximum number of shoots from single node. Very low intensity of callus formation was observed from the cut ends of single node explants that were cultured on half strength MS medium consisting of 1.5 mg L-1 BAP + 0.0 mg L-1 Kin and 1.5 mg L-1 BAP + 1.0 mg L-1 Kin. Conclusion: The use of growth regulators such as BAP and KIN is reliable for shoot regeneration even when the field explants are used.

Growth and Flowering of Lilium (Lilium longiflorum) cv. Eremo as Affected by CCC and GA3 under Naturally Ventilated Polyhouse Conditions of Prayagraj

The present investigation was carried out under naturally ventilated polyhouse conditions, Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Prayagraj, during November, 2023 to March, 2024. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. There were nine treatments comprising of Cycocel (CCC) and Gibberellic Acid (GA3) at different concentrations viz., GA3 (100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm) and CCC (100, 200, 300 and 400 ppm) along with Water spray. The results revealed foliar application of 300 ppm GA3 for Lilium significantly enhanced the number of leaves (71.83), plant height (76.47 cm), plant spread (15.44 cm), leaf area (9.73 cm2),number of buds (3.40),at 300 ppm of GA3 it takes lesser days taken for bud initiation(40.40),and also less days taken for first flower opening from planting (68.53), flower bud length (8.83 cm), flower stalk length (12.43 cm), stalk length (78.10 cm), self-life (12.97 days),flower yield per plant (3.40) and flower yield for 250 m2(6296.29) . Among the different treatments, the highest Gross return is 188888.7 Rs/250 m2, Net return is 120870.75 Rs/250 m2 and Benefit cost ratio is 2.77, obtained by the application of 300 ppm of GA3.Whereas in terms of only Bulb parameters, foliar application of 200 ppm of CCC for Lilium reported maximum number of bulblets per plant (4.11) and gives maximum weight of bulb per plant (74.07g).

Effect of Plant Spacing and Nutrient Levels on Growth and Yield of Red Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra)

An experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of plant spacing and nutrient levels on the growth and yield of red cabbage. This experiment involved three distinct spacing configurations (45cmx30cm, 45cmx45cm, and 45cmx60cm) and nutrient levels (75% NPK, 100% NPK, and 125% NPK). The experiment was designed as a Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRCBD) and carried out at the Department of Horticulture, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, during the 2021-22 period. This study infers that spacing and nutrients promote the vegetative growth of plants. The spacing configuration of 45cm X 60cm with 125% NPK resulted in the most significant outcomes, including the highest number of leaves (28.93), maximum plant height (36.71 cm), maximum fresh weight of the head (1421.80 g) and highest head volume (1360.19 cc) which could be because of wider spacing and higher nutrient doses. Conversely, the spacing configuration of 45cm X 30cm with 75% NPK demonstrated the early head initiation (45.60 days) and the most compact head formation (0.38). The highest yield per hectare (74.43 t) was achieved with the spacing configuration of 45cmx30cm using 125% NPK which improved greater availability of nutrients and, as a result, boosted the vegetative development.

Impact of Different Sowing Dates on Growth and Pod Yield of Vegetable Pea under Sub-Himalayan Foothills Region of India

Background: The optimum sowing date is crucial among the different agronomic procedures for maximizing output. Optimizing a crop's planting time may be one of the most significant climate resilient tactics for increasing production and hence it becomes necessary to study the crop growth behaviors in changing climatic conditions. The proposed field investigations were undertaken to study the influence of different sowing dates on yield of vegetable pea. Methods: Field investigations were undertaken during Rabi seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa (85.67oE - 25.98oN.), which comes under sub-Himalayan foothills region of India. The research study was performed in Randomized Block Design with three replications consisting of eight different sowing dates of vegetable pea. cv. Azad Pea-3 at 10 days interval between each sowing dates. Observations were made on various growth and yield attributing parameters. Result: Results revealed that the parameters under study were substantially affected by various sowing dates. Second week of sowing in November in the years produced maximum plant height at 60 DAS (83.77cm), number of branches per plant (3.97), number of nodules per plant at flowering (26.13), number of green pods per plant (20.80), 10 pods weight (75.67g) and pod yield (52.06q/ha).

Estimating the Morphological Variability of Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Genotypes in Jabalpur District, India

As variability is crucial for crop improvement, it is better to characterise several genotypes that are derived from either seedlings or wild types. This research facilitates the identification of cultivars, genotypes and the elimination of identical plants within populations. The study was conducted in year 2022-23 with thirty-three guava genotypes of Jabalpur district to examine various morphological characteristics such as tree height, trunk girth and canopy diameter, branching attitude, stem colour in young shoots, branching density, mature leaf colour, leaf shape, leaf base shape, leaf tip shape, leaf curvature and leaf twisting. The experimental investigation was carried out at the Fruit Research Station, Imaliya, under the Department of Horticulture at the College of Agriculture, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. Genotypes exhibited notable diversity in their morphological traits with respect to height, gith, canopy and several leaf-based characteristics. For the estimation of diversity, the DUS guideline of UPOV was followed. All the genotypes in this study aged between eight to thirteen years. Descriptive statistics showed that, the height of the trees varied between 2.78m (JG-322) and 6.12m (JG-325). The trunk girth ranged between 27.21cm (JG-314) to 87.23cm (JG-319). The canopy in the east-west direction ranged from 4m (JG-325) to 8.34m (JG-322) whereas, in north-south direction varied 3.68m (JG-325) to 8.41m (JG-322). The observed diversity in these traits yielded significant insights that might drive the selection of parental plants for an advanced guava breeding initiative.

Effect of Organic Manures and Foliar Application on Growth, Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata Nees.)

A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of organic manures and foliar application of organics on growth, yield and nutrient uptake of Kalmegh at the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University to find out the suitable organic inputs and foliar organics for better growth, yield and nutrient uptake of Kalmegh. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with twelve treatments and three replications comprising of a different combination (i) basal organics viz., Farm Yard Manure, Vermicompost and Pressmud (ii) foliar spray of organics viz., Panchagavya and Fish Amino Acid and untreated control. Among the twelve treatments, the plants which received Vermicompost at 5 t ha-1 + fish amino acid at 3% expressed higher values for the growth parameters viz., plant height (69.80 cm), number of branches plant-1 (25.13), number of leaves plant-1 (140.87). Physiological parameters viz., leaf area plant-1 (6.78), total dry matter production plant-1 (15.86 g plant-1). Yield parameters viz., fresh herbage yield plant-1 (42.74 g plant-1) and dry herbage yield plant-1 (14.24 g plant-1). Nutrient uptake viz., Nitrogen (38.97 Kg ha-1), Phosphorous (6.87 Kg ha-1) and Potassium (84.23 kg ha-1).

Effect of Gibberellic Acid and Cytokinin on Growth, Quality and Yield of French Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cv. Ellora No. 11

The experiment was conducted during Rabi season November – March, 2022-2023 at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, and Prayagraj (UP). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and 3 replication to study the “Effect of GA3 and Cytokinin on growth, quality and yield of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cv. Ellora No 11.” The treatments which areT0: Control, T1:GA3@200ppm, T2: GA3@400ppm, T3:GA3@600ppm, T4:GA3@800ppm, T5:GA3@1000ppm, T6Cytokinin@250ppm, T7Cytokinin@500ppm, T8Cytokinin@750ppm, T9Cytokinin@1000ppm. The growth regulators were sprayed at 10 D.A.S in French bean. from the above experiment finding it is conclude that all the character viz., growth parameter, earliness parameter yield parameter, qualitative parameters varied significantly. Further, The result showed that the minimum days to first flowering(42.33DAS), first picking (63.33DAS) and days to 50% flowering(53.67 DAS) while the maximum plant height(52.07cm), no. of branches(13.57), no. of leaves(214.93), number of pod per plant(21.67),pod length(16.50), pod girth(2.63cm) 1 pod weight(5.70g), yield per ha(12.35t/ha), total soluble solids (6.37°BRIX), protein (1.52%), fiber (3.89%), ascorbic acid (11.77mg)and BC ratio (3.1) was found maximum in T1:GA3@200ppm

Chemical Changes in Mango (CV.Fazli) as Affected by Fruit Maturity and Condition of Ripening

An experiment was carried out at the Department of Horticulture and Department of Biochemistry of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The objectives of the experiment were to evaluate the pattern of chemical changes associated with ripening and the numbers of days required for full ripening of mango (CV.Fazli) harvested at three maturity stages and preserved under different ripening conditions, viz; control, spread over brown paper, bamboo basket covering with straw, spread on straw and calcium carbide. The fruits were assessed for chemical changes during ripening. Some of the chemical properties such as sugar content (reducing, non-reducing and total), total soluble solid and pH of pulp increased while titratable acidity and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) content decreased with the increase in the duration of ripening. In respect of all chemical parameters, mature fruits kept in bamboo basket covering with straw showed best performance whereas CaC<sub>2 </sub>treated fruits showed poorer performance though good colours were developed. The ripening conditions maturity stages showed significant variations in relation to days required for full ripening. Among the treated and untreated mature mango fruits, bamboo basket covering with straw and spread on straw exhibited better ripening performance. Over- mature mango kept in bamboo basket covering with straw required the lowest days for full ripening but at 9th day of ripening some fruits were not in edible conditions whereas mature fruits kept in the same conditions were in edible conditions.