Block Design Research Articles

Enhancement of Semen Cryopreservation from Native Thai Bulls Through Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Supplementation

Cryopreservation of native Thai bull semen often results in significant post-thaw quality reduction, underscoring the need for effective cryoprotective strategies. This study investigated the effect of Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) as an antioxidant supplementation by incorporating four MOLE concentrations (0–1.5% [w/v]) into a standard semen extender, followed by cryopreservation using liquid nitrogen vapor freezing. Data were analyzed using a randomized complete block design with Tukey’s post hoc test (p < 0.05). Post-thaw analysis of semen revealed that 1 mg/mL MOLE significantly enhanced total sperm motility, progressive sperm motility, sperm viability, and sperm plasma membrane integrity compared to the control and other MOLE concentrations (p < 0.05). This concentration also improved the amplitude of lateral head displacement and curvilinear velocity and reduced malondialdehyde levels in semen samples (p < 0.05), indicating reduced lipid peroxidation. Higher MOLE concentrations negatively impacted semen quality. In conclusion, supplementation with 1 mg/mL MOLE markedly improved post-thaw semen quality and reduced lipid peroxidation, suggesting its potential as an antioxidant for enhancing reproductive outcomes in native Thai bulls.

Impact of Biochar and Hydroretentive Polymers on the Biochemical and Physiological Traits of Satureja rechingeri Jamzad Under Water Deficit Stress

Satureja rechingeri is a valuable medicinal plant, but its growth can be significantly impacted by water deficit stress. To investigate the effects of biochar (BC) and hydroretentive polymers (HPs) on various eco-physiological traits of savory under a water deficit, an experiment was conducted over two consecutive cropping seasons (2017–2019). A randomized complete block design with a split-plot factorial arrangement and three replications was used. The treatments consisted of three levels of irrigation (95 ± 5, 75 ± 5, and 55 ± 5% FC), which were applied to the main plots, and combinations of two levels of biochar and two levels of HPs, which were applied to subplots. The results show that a water deficit reduced the relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content, and dry matter yield of the shoots. Furthermore, the activity of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and malondialdehyde (MDA) increased in two-year-old plants. The MDA content significantly decreased by 15.6% in the second year compared to in the first year under a water deficit. The application of HPs caused a decrease of 26.4%, 32.5%, and 27.5% in POD, CAT, and APX enzyme activities, respectively, compared to their control levels. In the biochar treatment, there was a significant reduction in the activity of POD, APX, and CAT in the leaves.

Long-term Effect of Tillage, Residue and Biofertilizer on Soil Microbial Biomass Carbon and Dehydrogenase Activity under Rice-wheat Cropping System in Terai Agro-ecological Region of West Bengal

As a major supply of staple foods, the rice-wheat cropping system is crucial to global food security. However, continuous cultivation of these crops has led to several soil-related environmental problems, including the gradual decline in soil health and quality. In this context, maintaining soil health necessitates the adoption of conservation agriculture. This study assessed the effect of tillage, residue and biofertilizer management practices on soil dehydrogenase activity (SDHA) and soil microbial biomass carbon (SMBC) of post wheat soils at various soil depth (0-5 cm, 5-10 cm, 10-20 cm and 20-40 cm). The research was conducted as part of a long-term field experiment initiated in 2006 in rice-wheat cropping system under a factorial randomized block design with three replications in the Terai agro-ecological regions of West Bengal. The results revealed that the SDHA and SMBC were increased by the influence of long-term zero tillage, bio fertilizer & residue addition at the most of the soils depths under study except at 20-40 cm. The highest short-term change of SDHA (213.19%) in compared to the initial soil status was observed in conventionally tilled soil with biofertilizer addition treatment combination. Since SDHA and SMBC are critical indicators of soil health and quality, this study also explored their relationship. Positive good regression coefficient of 0.74, 0.65 and 0.67 at 0-5 cm, 5-10 cm and 10-20 cm soil depth were observed respectively. These findings highlight the strong association between the two parameters. With growing future demand of foods, conservation agriculture must be practiced to ensure the long-term sustainability of soil productivity. The study provides evidence that implementing zero tillage along with residue and biofertilizer addition significantly improves these key soil health parameters.

Effect of Enriched Coconut Shell Biochar on Soil Properties and Soybean (Glycine max L.) Yield in Acidic Soils of Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

A two-season field study was conducted at ICAR-KVK, Hadonahalli, which is located in the Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, to evaluate the influence of phosphorus-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) and zinc-enriched coconut shell biochar on soil biological properties, nutrient bioavailability and soybean (Glycine max L.) yield in acidic soils. 13 treatments, including a control, package of practice and various combinations of PSB and zinc-enriched biochar were assessed in randomised complete block design at P=0.05 level of significance. The biochar was characterized for its physical properties, including bulk density (0.38 Mg m-3), water holding capacity (76.27%) and chemical properties including pH (9.52), electrical conductivity (1.12 dS m-1) and nutrient composition. Results indicated significant improvements in soil dehydrogenase activity, phosphatase activity and major nutrient bioavailability (N, P, K and Zn) in treatments receiving 100% NPK, PSB enriched FYM at 3.125 t ha-1 and different doses of zinc enriched Biochar at 5 t ha-1 compared to the control and package of practice. Soybean yield was maximized under treatments combining PSB-enriched FYM and zinc-enriched biochar, with the highest yield observed in T6 (23.61 q ha-1). The enhanced yield was attributed to improved soil health and nutrient dynamics by PSB and biochar. These findings underscore the potential of PSB and zinc-enriched biochar as sustainable amendments for enhancing soil fertility, crop productivity, and nutrient use efficiency in acidic soils.

Effect of Brown Manuring and Herbicide Application on Weed Parameters on Aerobic Rice under Varying Planting Geometry

A Field Experiment was conducted at Main Rice Research Centre, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari during kharif 2021. The experiment was carried out in randomized block design with factorial concept with three replication. The results revealed that density of grasses, sedges, broad-leaved weeds and thus total weed density were significantly higher in 40 cm line sowing at 20 DAS and 40 DAS. Weed dry weight at 60 DAS and at harvest was also significantly higher with 40 cm line sowing. Hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS recorded no weed at 20 DAS and at 40 DAS and was closely followed by Pendimethalin 750 g a.i. ha-1 (PE) + Bispyribac sodium 40 g ha-1 at 30 DAS. Considerably lower weed dry weight at 60 DAS and at harvest was recorded with Hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS which was at par with Pendimethalin 750 g a.i. ha-1 (PE) + Bispyribac sodium 40 g ha-1 at 30 DAS. Numerically higher weed control efficiency at 60 DAS and at harvest and lower weed index was also recorded by Hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS followed by Pendimethalin 750 g a.i. ha-1 (PE) + Bispyribac sodium 40 g ha-1 at 30 DAS. Weed smothering efficiency was found to be higher with Pendimethalin 750 g a.i. ha-1 (PE) + Brown Manuring at 60 DAS and at harvest.

Impact of Planting Dates and Cultivars on the Expression of HMW-GS, LMW-GS Genes and Gluten Quality in Wheat

A field experiment was conducted for the seasons 2022 and 2023 in Kerbala Governorate to determine the effect of some wheat varieties and planting dates on gluten protein levels, wheat quality, and expression of genes responsible for low and high molecular weight glutenin units (LMW-GS and HMW-GS).The experiment was implemented according to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) according to the split plot arrangement, as the main plots included three planting dates (November 15, December 1, and December 15) and were symbolized by the symbols (D1, D2, and D3, respectively), while the sub-plots included four wheat varieties (Latifiya, Ibaa 99, Tamuz, and Rashid). Using qPCR at the second planting date (December 15th), we investigated gene expression and discovered that the "Ibaa 99" variety displayed the greatest levels of gene expression for both LMW-GS and HMW-GS while the "Rashid" variety displayed the lowest levels. With LMW-GS levels of 17.5 ± 1.7 mg/g and HMW-GS levels roughly 15.5 ± 1.4 mg/g, "Ibaa 99" also reported the highest gluten protein content on the same planting date. Between gene expression, protein synthesis, and gluten quality, our study revealed a substantial favorable connection (r = 0.95–0.99). Gene expression therefore raises protein synthesis and gluten quality. Because of its excellent day length and mild temperatures, second planting date—December 15th—seemed suitable for gene expression and protein synthesis. These results highlight the significance of timing planting to raise wheat yield and quality as well as of employing high-gene-expression wheat varieties such as "Ibaa 99." This paper shows how choice of planting date and type improves wheat quality and yield. Selecting high-performance varieties and matching planting times to environmental conditions will let researchers and farmers increase wheat yields and quality. These findings provide guidance for improving agricultural methods in many different settings.

Effect of Different Level of Nano Urea on Yield, Quality and Shelf life of Strawberry (Fragaria X ananassa) cv. Winter Dawn under Prayagraj Agro Climatic Condition, India

Nano fertilizers are the modern day concept of fertilizers and possess several benefits over conventional fertilizers. In very small quantity nano fertilizers have significant impact on the growth of crop. The present study consisted of 11 treatments utilising various combinations of conventional urea and nano urea, administered at varied doses and concentrations, with each treatment replicated three times in a Randomised Block Design. The main objective of the experiment was to assess the impact of varying concentrations of nano urea on the yield and quality characteristics along with shelf life of Strawberry (Fragaria X ananassa) cv. Winter Dawn. Treatment T7 [100% PK + 60% RDN + 0.8% Nano urea (8 ml/l)] was found best with [15.69 (2022-23), 16.23 (2023-24) and 15.96 (Pooled)] number of fruits per plant, [168.57 (2022-23), 177.28 (2023-24) and 172.92 (Pooled)] g yield per plant, [55.07 (2022-23), 57.92 (2023-24) and 56.49 (Pooled)] q/ha yield per hectare, ) [11.21 (2022-23), 11.54 (2023-24) and 11.38 (Pooled)] °Brix TSS, [0.60 (2022-23), 0.49 (2023-24) and 0.55 (Pooled)] % titrable acidity, [55.14 (2022-23), 56.86 (2023-24) and 56.00 (Pooled)] mg/100g ascorbic acid, [5.80 (2022-23), 6.00 (2023-24) and 5.90 (Pooled)] % total sugar, [4.17 (2022-23), 4.26 (2023-24) and 4.22 (Pooled)] % reducing sugar, [1.54 (2022-23), 1.65 (2023-24) and 1.60 (Pooled)] % non-reducing sugar and [4.34 (2022-23), 4.38 (2023-24) and 4.36 (Pooled)] days shelf life.

Inorganic-microbial organic fertilizer synergy: improving quinoa yield and seed quality through soil and nutrient modulation

ABSTRACT Heavy reliance on chemical fertilizer (CF) for achieving high yield in crops causes serious problems on the environment, development of pest resistance and deterioration of food safety. To resolve this, the co-application of organic fertilizer (OF) to reduce the amount of CF is considered as an effective fertilizer management to sustain agricultural crop production. Most studies, however, have focused on the effect of substitution of CF with OF or biofertilizer on crop production but little information on the effect of substitution of CF with microbial organic fertilizer (MOF) on the seed yield and quality especially in quinoa. Thus, field experiments were conducted to determine the effect of rates of substitution of CF by MOF on soil fertility, nutrient uptake, grain yield and quality in quinoa. Five treatments in two cropping season experiments in 2023 and laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. These treatments were 100% chemical fertilizer application (CF100), 100% microbial organic fertilizer application (MOF100), 75% chemical fertilizer + 25% microbial organic fertilizer (CF75 + MOF25), 50% chemical fertilizer + 50% microbial organic fertilizer (CF50 + MOF50), and 25% chemical fertilizer + 75% microbial organic fertilizer (CF25 + MOF75). The results showed that the increase in the rates of substitution of CF with MOF increased soil pH and soil organic matter content (SOM) compared to CF100, while soil mineral N, available P, exchangeable K were highest at CF50 + MOF50 in both seasons. The substitution of CF with MOF at 25 and 50% enhanced nutrient uptake, promoted growth, and subsequently, increased yield and improved grain quality in quinoa. Overall, the results implied that substitution of CF by MOF at 50% was optimal for sustainable quinoa production.

Microclimates growing and watering volumes influences the physiological traits of chili pepper cultivars in combating abiotic stress.

Chili peppers are a staple food for countries worldwide and are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. One of the world's largest chili consumers, Indonesia faces climate adversities and cash-crop pest infestations that affect its horticulture market. The present research explores microclimatic and watering for physiological performances in different chili cultivars, useful in suggesting the strategies of cultivation with a climate-resilient perception. The research was done in the Bale Tatanen, Padjadjaran University, using a Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design to analyze chili plant physiology. According to statistical analyses, cultivars did not significantly affect absolute growth rate (AGR), but growing microclimates and watering volumes did significantly affect AGR and water use efficiency (WUE). The rain shelter and screen house had the highest WUE and AGR values. Growing microclimates and cultivars significantly affected transpiration rate, stomatal conductance to water vapor and total conductance to CO2, with the screen house exhibiting the highest values. All three factors significantly affected the photosynthetic rate, with the greenhouse showing the highest rate. The photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was likewise highest in the greenhouse. This study aimed to systematically assess these factors and it tried suggesting practices that might assist in combating the effects of abiotic stress on chili production, for its sustainability. The findings of this research would help in conceptualizing the most efficient microclimate and watering volume for chili cultivation particularly, when considering climate change challenges as well; these results could also be applied to develop guidelines which might serve helpful at resource-poor farming.

Effect of Different Management Practices on Yield Attributes and Productivity of Wheat + Mustard Intercropping System

The present investigation entitled “Effect of natural farming, organic farming, integrated crop management and conventional management practices on yield attributes and productivity of Wheat + Mustard intercropping system” was conducted under All India Network Programme on Organic Farming (AI-NPOF) during rabi season of 2022-23 and 2023-24 at Instructional Research farm, Krishi Nagar Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P). The soil of experiment was sandy clay loam, neutral in reaction (pH 6.7), low in organic carbon (0.62 %), medium in available nitrogen (281.43 kg ha-1), medium in available phosphorus (20.35 kg ha-1) and high in available potassium (272.12 kg ha-1). The experiment was carried out in a Randomized block design with six treatments and four replications. The treatment comprises of T1- Control (No addition of any input except labour for operations including weeding), T2- Complete Natural Farming Practices (1. Beejamrit + Ghanjeevamrit + Jeevamrit 2. Crop residue mulching 3. Intercropping 4. Whapasa), T3- Organic Management Practices (AI-NPOF package) (75 % RDN through organic sources + two foliar spray of 10 % cow urine and vermiwash at 30 and 50 DAS), T4-ICM (50 % nutrient through organic and 50 % nutrient through inorganic sources + natural/organic pesticides for pest management), T5-ICM (50 % nutrient through organic and 50 % nutrient through inorganic + need based pesticides) and T6-Conventional Management Practices (RDN 120:60:40 Kg ha-1 N: P2O5: K2O ha-1). The result of the experiment revealed that conventional management practices i.e. RDN @120:60:40 Kg ha-1 of N: P2O5: K2O proved to be best for wheat + mustard intercropping system in terms of yield attributes and yield and this was followed by integrated crop management i.e. 50 % RDN through organic and 50 % RDN through inorganic sources and pest management with need based pesticides. Higher wheat equivalent yield was recorded under conventional management practices.

Combining ability analysis for fruit yield and related traits in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) using Line × Tester mating design

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is a significant vegetable crop, widely cultivated and consumed in households across India. Enhancing fruit production per unit area requires a focus on key traits such as early maturity, enhanced plant vigor and increased fruit yield. Consequently, crop breeding programs emphasize the development and commercialization of brinjal hybrids tailored to regional needs. Effective crop improvement hinges on selecting suitable parental lines and employing precise crossing techniques to generate hybrids with desirable agronomic traits. The present study was conducted to assess the combining ability for fruit yield and related traits in brinjal. The experiment was carried out during the Kharif season of 2023 and the summer season of 2024 at the Vegetable Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India. A randomized block design (RBD) with three replications was utilized. The study involved 30 hybrid combinations derived from 13 brinjal genotypes, employing a line × tester mating design with 10 lines and 3 testers. Results indicated that among the parental genotypes, PBGL-5 (88.11), PBGL-7 (85.02) and Swarna Abhinav (67.80) demonstrated high general combining ability (GCA) for fruit yield and related traits. Among the hybrid combinations, Pusa Kaushal × Pant Samrat (153.16), Pusa Ankur × Kashi Uttam (126.37) and PBGL-5 × Pant Rituraj (116.77) exhibited superior specific combining ability (SCA) effects. These results highlight the potential of the identified parents and hybrids as promising genetic resources for future breeding programs aimed at hybrid development and yield enhancement. In conclusion, the identified genotypes and crosses with favorable GCA and SCA effects can serve as valuable candidates for breeding programs to develop high-yielding, region-specific brinjal hybrids. This study underscores the importance of systematic parental selection and hybrid evaluation in advancing brinjal crop improvement initiatives.

Impact of Nano-Urea Application on Wheat Yield and Soil Properties: A Sustainable Approach to Nutrient Management

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2022–23 at Dugurpur village Nuaon Block under On Farm Trial by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kaimur, to investigate the Impact of Nano-Urea Application on Wheat Yield and Soil Properties. The experiment was tested in a randomized block design with 2-nano-urea based treatment,viz. farmers practice (100% RDF), 50% of RDN & 100% PK + nano urea @4ml/lt. water (Single spray at 35 DAS), 50% of RDN & 100% PK + 2 sprays of Nano Urea at (35 DAS) and (60-65DAS) @ 4 ml/lt water. Results revealed that, yield attributes were significantly higher with 50% RDN& 100% PK along with nano urea. This treatment also resulted in 1.6 and 4.2% more grain yield with 100% RDF (33.14 q/ha).The effective tillers/m2 and number of grains/spike whichresulted in significantly higher grain yield. Thus, 50% RDN & 100% PK along with 50% of RDN & 100% PK + 2 sprays of Nano Urea at (35 DAS) and (60-65DAS) @ 4 ml/lt water are the more productive options for wheat-growingfarmers keeping view of the uprising cost and crisis of urea.

Growth Performance and Carbon Sequestration potential of Planted Albizia versicolor and Albizia harveyi in Morogoro, Tanzania

This study assessed the growth performance and Carbon sequestration potential of 21-year-old Albizia versicolor Welw ex. Oliver. (Av) and Albizia harveyi Fourn (Ah) planted in 2003 at Maseyu village, Morogoro, Tanzania. These species are among the species preferred for wood fuel in Tanzania and other countries within African savanna ecosystems. Seedlings of the two species were planted at a spacing of 2 x 2 m with 25 trees per plot (8 x 8 m) using a completely randomized block design with three replications. In 2024, measurements were taken for diameter at breast height (Dbh) and height. Data was analyzed to get means for Dbh, height, volume, annual increment (MAI), above-ground biomass (AGB) and above-ground Carbon stock (AGC). An independent t-test was used to analyze differences in species parameters using R-studio. Results showed significant differences in stocking density (p < 0.001), Dbh (p < 0.001) and height (p < 0.001) between species, with Albizia versicolor exhibiting larger mean Dbh (8.82 ± 1.36 cm) and height (7.46 ± 1.47 m) but relatively lower stocking density (1,188 ± 407 stems/ha) compared to Albizia harveyi (7.33 ± 1.16 cm,6.63 ± 2.28 m and 2,230 ± 1046 stems/ha respectively). However, no significant differences were found in volume, AGB, and AGC. Volume increments were 2.41 m³/ha/yr for Albizia versicolor and 2.58 m³/ha/yr for Albizia harveyi, while AGB increments were 1.23 and 1.17 t/ha/year for Albizia versicolor and Albizia harveyi respectively. Above-ground Carbon (AGC) stock increments (0.58 and 0.62 tC ha⁻¹ year⁻¹) for Albizia versicolor and Albizia harveyi respectively under monoculture were consistent with studies on mature Miombo woodlands. These findings suggest that both Albizia species perform well in monoculture growth, demonstrating their potential for sustainable Miombo woodland management and Carbon sequestration, despite lower biomass accumulation rates compared to natural Miombo ecosystems.

Optimizing fully-efficient two-stage models for genomic selection using open-source software.

Genomic-assisted breeding has transitioned from theoretical concepts to practical applications in breeding. Genomic selection (GS) predicts genomic breeding values (GEBV) using dense genetic markers. Single-stage models predict GEBVs from phenotypic observations in one step, fully accounting for the entire variance-covariance structure among genotypes, but face computational challenges. Two-stage models, preferred for their simplicity and efficiency, first calculate adjusted genotypic means accounting for spatial variation within each environment, then use these means to predict GEBVs. However, unweighted (UNW) two-stage models assume independent errors among adjusted means, neglecting correlations among estimation errors. Here, we show that fully-efficient two-stage models perform similarly to UNW models for randomized complete block designs but substantially better for augmented designs. Our simulation studies demonstrate the impact of the fully-efficient methodology on prediction accuracy across different implementations and scenarios. Incorporating non-additive effects and augmented designs significantly improved accuracy, emphasizing the synergy between design and model strategy. Consistent performance requires the estimation error covariance to be incorporated into a random effect (Full_R model) rather than into the residuals. Our results suggest that the fully-efficient methodology, particularly the Full_R model, should be more prevalent, especially as GS increases the appeal of sparse designs. We also provide a comprehensive theoretical background and open-source R code, enhancing understanding and facilitating broader adoption of fully-efficient two-stage models in GS. Here, we offer insights into the practical applications of fully-efficient models and their potential to increase genetic gain, demonstrating a improvement after five selection cycles when moving from UNW to Full_R models.

Improvement of Agronomic Parameters of Rice Plants Infected by Rice Yellow Mottle Virus (RYMV) Using Plant Extracts

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of plant extracts Azadirachta indica, Piper nigrum L, Acacia gummifera, Combretum micranthum, and Clenodium vulgare L on rice yellow mottle virus in rice. Study Design: The experiment was conducted in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with five repetitions. The blocking factor was the sunshine. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Microbiology and Microbial Biotechnology Research Laboratory (LaboREM-Biotech) of the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, between June and November 2020. Methodology: The rice variety Kogoni91-1, which is highly susceptible to rice yellow mottle, was grown under greenhouse at the LaboREM-Biotech, inoculated with a highly virulent virus from the laboratory's collection and treated with plant extracts. Results: The results showed that rice plants treated with the combination of plant extracts from C. micranthum, A. indica, and C. vulgare recorded higher grain and aerial biomass yields than the positive control and very close to those of the negative control. Similarly, plants treated with black pepper extracts showed a number of spikelets, a yield and an aerial biomass higher than those of the positive control and very close to those of the negative control. Conclusion: Using plant extracts to combat rice yellow mottle could be an alternative to the application of chemical pesticides harmful to human and animal health.

Effect of Storage Time of Phaseolus lunatus (L.) Seeds on Germination and Morphological Traits in Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire

Food security remains a major challenge, particularly in developing countries where post-harvest losses and inadequate storage practices limit the potential of many crops. Phaseolus lunatus, a nutrient-rich legume cultivated for its ability to enrich soils, is underutilized due to low viability of its seeds after storage. This study aims to evaluate the effect of storage duration on the germination and morphological performance of two morphotypes (M1 and M2) of this species, to optimize seed management practices. Experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with two replications. Four storage durations were tested: less than two months (T1), one year (T2), two years (T3), and three years (T4). The measured parameters included germination rate, emergence time, number of leaves, plant height, and leaf biomass. Statistical analyses assessed effects of morphotypes, storage duration, and their interactions. Results indicate that seed viability decreased significantly with storage duration, with germination rates dropping from 70% (M1) and 75% (M2) at T1 to 20% (M1) and 35% (M2) at T3, and reaching 0% after three years (T4). Emergence time also increased with storage duration, reaching 7.62 days at T3. Morphologically, seeds stored for less than two months (T1) produced more vigorous plants. M2 outperformed M1 in all conditions, demonstrating superior tolerance to seed ageing. These findings underscore the importance of improved storage methods and highlight the potential of M2 for breeding programs. Effective management of Phaseolus lunatus seeds could significantly contribute to the sustainability of agricultural systems and global food security.

Toward Enhanced Seed Potato Yield: Ultrasonication Techniques for Sustainable Agricultural Development

The study aimed to explore the potential of ultrasonication techniques in seed potato production as a sustainable agricultural innovation. By improving seed potato efficiency and promoting resource optimization, this research aligns with the goals of sustainable agricultural and rural development, addressing challenges such as food security, environmental preservation, and economic viability in rural farming communities. The study was conducted over three years in the central–eastern region of Poland, utilizing a randomized block design with a split-split-plot approach. The main experimental factor was the cultivation technology, which included (a) an innovative ultrasonic pre-sowing treatment method and (b) a traditional cultivation method without such treatment. The secondary factor was the potato varieties. The ultrasonic treatment of tubers was performed using an ultrasonic tub-type device equipped with piezoelectric transducers. Cultivation technology, potato varieties, and weather conditions had a significant impact on the yield of tubers in the seed potato fraction size, the number of tubers in this fraction, and the multiplication coefficient. Additionally, the genetic characteristics of the studied varieties and random environmental factors significantly influenced the weight of a single seed potato tuber and the number of shoots produced by each plant.

Effect of Combined use of Nutrition and Weed Management Practices on the Weed Studies, Seed Yield and Microbial Counts of Soil in Blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)

A study was conducted at NEB Crop Research Center, G.B.Pant University of Aagriculture &Technology, Pantnagar, to evaluate the effect of combined use of weed and nutrition management through seed inoculation, foliar application and weed management practices on the weed studies (weed count weed dry weight and weed control efficiency) and seed yield parameters of blackgram. The experiment was laid out in the factorial randomized block design with 3 factors, which 2 factors were about nutrient management i.e., seed inoculation (Rhizobium+ PSB & Rhizobium sp.+PGPR), and foliar nutrition (water spray, Nano urea @0.25 &18:18:18 NPK @2%), and one was about weed management (weedy check, Propaquizafop + Imazethapyr & Fomesafen% + Fluazifop-p-butyl). Results showed that among seed inoculation treatments, Rhizobium sp.+PGPR performs better in terms of total weed count, weed dry biomass, seed yield and microbial count (actinomycetes and bacteria) in soil whereas seed inoculation did not influence the weed control index, initial and final plant population and fungi count. After Weed-free treatment, Fomesafen% + Fluazifop-p-butyl gave minimum weed count, weed dry weight, maximum yield and microbial count (actinomycetes and bacteria) among weed management treatments. However, among foliar nutrition, 18:18:18 NPK @2% treatment gave maximum weed dry biomass and maximum seed yield, with microbial count in soil whereas foliar nutrition did not exert an effect on weed count, weed control index, plant initial and final plant population and fungi count. These findings highlight the importance of nutrient management through seed inoculation and foliar nutrition with weed management practices in addressing productivity issues with sustainability improving returns for black gram farmers.

Assessment of Field Pea (Pisum sativum var. arvense) Genotypes for Morphological Traits, Quality Traits and Molecular Characterization using SSR Marker

Background: Field pea is an important cool season grain legume crop. This study was conducted on field pea to explore phenotypic and molecular diversity among field pea genotypes, catering to current and future crop improvement. Methods: In this investigation forty-six genotypes of field pea were evaluated in randomized block design to assess phenotypic diversity for morphological and quality traits, alongside molecular characterization using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Result: Variability analysis displayed substantial variability for all traits among test genotypes. Cluster analysis grouped the all genotypes into three distinct multi-genotypic clusters with clusters II and III having highest inter-cluster distance. Molecular characterization revealed the detection of 43 repeatable alleles by 14 polymorphic SSR markers, spanning a size range of 150 bp (AA122) to 970 bp (AA504), with a maximum of 4 fragments intensified by AD147, D21, AA504, AA122 and A9. Utilizing Jaccard dissimilarity coefficients and UNJ methods, all forty-six genotypes were grouped into three clusters. This study on field pea facilitates the identification of diverse parent selections capable of producing desirable segregants in future breeding programs.

Growth and Yield of Sweet Corn (Zea mays var. rugosa) in Response to Bio-fertilizer Application

Bio-N® fertilizer is a substance which contains living microorganisms which, when applied to seed, plant surfaces, or soil, colonizes the rhizosphere or the interior of the plant and promotes growth by increasing the supply or availability of primary nutrients to the host plant. This study was conducted to determine the effects of Bio-N® and different levels of inorganic fertilizers on the growth, yield and postharvest quality of sweet corn (Zea mays var. rugosa). The experiment was conducted using a 5m x 4m plot size and arranged as a 2x3 factorial experiment within a Randomized Complete Block Design. Bio-N application (with and without) was designated as Factor A, while the varying levels of inorganic NPK fertilizer (100%, 75%, 50%) were assigned as Factor B. This resulted in six treatment combinations, with each plot containing 108 sweetcorn plants, replicated three times. Sweetcorn plants applied with Bio-N® fertilizer gave a significant growth and yield compared to those plants without fertilizer (Bio-N®) applied. The highest net income and return of investment were obtained from plants applied with Bio-N® with 100% RR of inorganic fertilizer at 284,866.00 and 316.05% respectively.