Plant Leaf Area Research Articles

Impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa)

An experiment was conducted during 2011–12 at Arabhavi, Karnataka, to study the impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of ‘Salem’ cultivar of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Turmeric cv. ‘Salem’ showed better response to combined application of inorganic fertilizers, bio-inoculants and bio-formulations than other treatments used in the study. Combined application of recommended dose of fertilizer [(RDF), FYM @ 25 t/ha and N:P:K @ 180:90:90 kg/ha) + VA-Mycorrhiza (VAM) + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani resulted in higher fresh rhizome yield and growth parameters, viz. plant height, pseudostem diameter, leaf area and leaf-area index, which was at par with the treatment, RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum. Similarly, the highest benefit: cost ratio of 4.87 was obtained with the application of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani compared to the other treatments. Hence planting of turmeric rhizome with combination of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani was profitable under northern dry zone of Karnataka.

Performance of Different Hybrids of Okra under Prayagraj Agro-climatic Conditions

This research evaluates the performance of different hybrids of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) under the agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj. Okra, originating from sub-tropical Africa, holds economic significance and is cultivated widely across diverse regions. Understanding the performance of okra hybrids is vital for maximizing productivity and ensuring food security. The study assesses growth parameters such as plant height, leaf area, and number of branches, along with yield parameters including fruit characteristics and days to flowering. Quality parameters such as Vitamin C and Total Soluble Solids (TSS) are also considered. Economic aspects such as cost of cultivation, gross return, and cost ratio are analysed. Results reveal significant variations among hybrids, with certain hybrids demonstrating superior performance. Hybrid H7 emerges as promising, exhibiting robust growth and high yield potential. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing okra cultivation practices and enhancing productivity in the Prayagraj region. Further research is recommended to refine hybrid selection and cultivation techniques for sustainable okra production.

A Systematic Review on Effects of Nitrogen Fertilizer Levels on Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) Production in Ethiopia.

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) holds significant agricultural and nutritional importance in Ethiopia; yet, its production faces challenges, including suboptimal nitrogen fertilizer management. The aim of this review was to review the possible effect of nitrogen fertilizer levels on the production of cabbage in Ethiopia. Nitrogen fertilization significantly influences cabbage yield and quality. Moderate to high levels of nitrogen application enhance plant growth, leaf area, head weight, and yield. However, excessive nitrogen levels can lead to adverse effects such as delayed maturity, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, and reduced postharvest quality. In Ethiopia, small-scale farmers use different nitrogen levels for cabbage cultivation. In Ethiopia, NPSB or NPSBZN fertilizers are widely employed for the growing of various crops such as cabbage. 242 kg of NPS and 79 kg of urea are the blanket recommendation for the current production of cabbage in Ethiopia. The existing rate is not conducive for farmers. Therefore, small-scale farmers ought to utilize an optimal and cost-effective nitrogen rate to boost the cabbage yield. Furthermore, the effectiveness of nitrogen fertilization is influenced by various factors including the soil type, climate, cabbage variety, and agronomic practices. Integrated nutrient management approaches, combining nitrogen fertilizers with organic amendments or other nutrients, have shown promise in optimizing cabbage production while minimizing environmental impacts. The government ought to heed suggestions concerning soil characteristics such as the soil type, fertility, and additional factors such as the soil pH level and soil moisture contents.

Dynamic analysis and optimal control strategies of a predator–prey mathematical model for the pest eradication in oil palm plantation

Oil palm cultivation stands as a crucial industry in Indonesia, significantly contributing to the nation’s economy by generating employment opportunities and fostering social welfare for communities residing near plantations. Despite its economic importance, oil palm plantations face various challenges, with one prominent issue being the infestation of nettle caterpillar pests. These pests cause leaf skeletonization, resulting in a staggering 36% reduction in oil palm productivity over a two-year period. This paper explores diverse strategies for pest management in oil palm plantations, encompassing biological control through the stimulation of natural predators, mechanical control involving the collection and incineration of cocoons, and chemical control through pesticide application. The research introduces a predator–prey mathematical model for oil palm plantation pests, where the leaf area serves as the primary food source for caterpillars, acting as prey. Through dynamic model analysis, four equilibrium points are identified, with interconnected conditions dictating their existence and stability. These conditions are visually represented in a bifurcation plane, providing concise information. The study further includes bifurcation diagrams of equilibrium points to elucidate the influence of each parameter on pests, predators, and the leaf area of oil palm plants. Additionally, sensitivity analysis of the stable interior equilibrium point is conducted to understand the impact of individual parameters. The paper extends its investigation to optimal control strategies, evaluating six scenarios categorized into two population conditions: with predators and without predators. Within each population condition, three control strategies are considered—chemical control only, mechanical control only, and a combination of chemical and mechanical control. Simulation results from the optimal control study reveal that the presence of natural predators emerges as a pivotal strategy in effectively managing nettle caterpillars. Notably, the control of resistant pests through pupa incineration has a substantial impact on reducing the caterpillar population in subsequent life cycles.

Temperature fluctuation in soil alters the nanoplastic sensitivity in wheat

Despite the wide acknowledgment that plastic pollution and global warming have become serious agricultural concerns, their combined impact on crop growth remains poorly understood. Given the unabated megatrend, a simulated soil warming (SWT, +4 °C) microcosm experiment was carried out to provide a better understanding of the effects of temperature fluctuations on wheat seedlings exposed to nanoplastics (NPs, 1 g L−1 61.71 ± 0.31 nm polystyrene). It was documented that SWT induced oxidative stress in wheat seedlings grown in NPs-contaminated soil, with an 85.56 % increase in root activity, while decreasing plant height, fresh weight, and leaf area by 8.72 %, 47.68 %, and 15.04 % respectively. The SWT also resulted in reduced photosynthetic electron-transfer reaction and Calvin-Benson cycle in NPs-treated plants. Under NPs, SWT stimulated the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) metabolism and bio-oxidation process. The decrease in photosynthesis and the increase in respiration resulted in an 11.94 % decrease in net photosynthetic rate (Pn). These results indicated the complicated interplay between climate change and nanoplastic pollution in crop growth and underscored the potential risk of nanoplastic pollution on crop production in the future climate.

Maximization of brackish water productivity for the sustainable production of striped catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and grain sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) cultivated under an integrated aquaculture–agriculture system

Freshwater scarcity, salinity, and poor soil fertility are the major challenges affecting both food and feed productions in arid and semi-arid regions of the world. Utilization of brackish water in the production of saline-tolerant fish and valuable field crops under an integrated system is promising in the maximization of yield per crop. The aim of this study, therefore, was to (1) assess the effect of saline aquaculture wastewater on the growth, yield, forage quality, and nutritive composition of sorghum seeds and (2) assess the effect of different water qualities on the survival, growth performance, and health status of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus. The experiment was conducted in a randomized completely block design of four salinity treatments with three replicates, i.e., control (freshwater mixed with inorganic fertilizers), 5000 ppm, 10,000 ppm, and 15,000 ppm. Our results indicated that although the control exhibited the highest growth (plant height, leaf number, internode number, leaf area, and soil–plant analysis development), grain, and forage yield, no significant differences were noted among the treatments. Likewise, no significant difference in the grain nutrient composition was noted among all the treatments. Assessment of the forage quality revealed improved crude protein content in the control compared to the saline treatments. However, no significant differences in the leaves and stalks fiber fractions were noted among all the treatments. Furthermore, rumen fermentation in terms of in vitro digestibility indicated no significant differences in the in vitro digestible dry matter, digestible organic matter, metabolic energy, net energy, microbial protein, short-chain fatty acids, and total dissolved nutrients among the treatments. However, rearing P. hypophthalmus in water salinities exceeding 10,000 ppm reduced the growth performance and health status of fish. Therefore, the integration of sorghum and P. hypophthalmus production in water salinities not exceeding 5000 ppm is a viable alternative to maximize brackish water productivity in freshwater-scarce regions.

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).

Physiological and Biochemical Basis of Variation in Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under CA-based Crop Establishment Methods and Nutrient Management in R-W Cropping System

Background: Crop establishment methods and nutrient management practices treatments were continuously practiced in the same plots since 2011-12 as a part of long-term experiment. A field study was conducted during 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 i.e. during 9th and 10th year of study to investigate the effects of CE methods and nutrient management on growth, physiological, biochemical, yield attributes and yield of rice crop. Methods: Field experiments were carried out at the Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, laid out in split plot design replicated thrice with four crop establishment (CE) methods viz., CT (puddled transplanted) rice-CT wheat (CE1),CTDSR rice-CT wheat (CE2), CTDSR- ZT wheat (rice residue retention) (CE3), ZT rice-ZT wheat (residue retention in rice and wheat) (CE4) in main plots and three nutrient management (NM) practices viz., FP (164 kg N, 50 kg P2O5, 32 kg K2O and 4 kg Zn ha-1) (N1), RFD (150 kg N, 60 kg P2O5, 60 kg K2O and 5 kg Zn ha-1) (N2) and SSNM- RWCM recommendation (N3). The rice variety used was ‘Sarju-52’ in the present study. Result: The recorded data revealed that ZT rice–ZT wheat (CE4) recorded significantly higher plant height, tillers hill-1, leaf area, RWC, total chlorophyll content and protein content as compared to other CE methods. Among NM practices, SSNM-RWCM (N3) recorded significantly higher plant height, tillers hill-1, leaf area and protein content, whereas, RWC and total chlorophyll content did not differ significantly over farmer’s practice and recommended fertilizer dose. Improved growth and physio-chemical attributes in ZT rice-ZT wheat (CE4) and SSNM-RWCM (N3) resulted in significantly higher panicles hill-1, fertility percentage and number of filled grains panicle-1 over other CE methods and NM practices. Panicle length, spikelets panicle-1 and test weight showed non-significant differences. Grain yield, straw yield and biological yield were significantly higher in ZT rice-ZT wheat (CE4) among CE methods and SSNM-RWCM (N3) among NM practices. The harvest index showed non-significant differences for CE methods and NM practices both.

The suppression of Ganoderma boninense on oil palm under mixed planting with taro plants

Abstract. Suwandi S, Alesia M, Munandar RP, Fadli R, Suparman S, Irsan C, Muslim A. 2024. The suppression of Ganoderma boninense on oil palm under mixed planting with taro plants. Biodiversitas 25: 1143-1150. Basal stem rot, caused by Ganoderma boninense, is highly destructive in monoculture oil palm plantations. This study evaluated Ganoderma boninense infections and oil palm growth in mixed plantings of oil palm seedlings and taro plants (Japanese, Bogor, and Indralaya taro). Ganoderma, colonizing rubber wood blocks, was inoculated into mixed plants, and the infection was compared to single-inoculated oil palm and taro plants. The interference of mixed planting with taro plants on the growth of oil palm seedlings was compared between inoculated and noninoculated mixed and single planting. Ganoderma inoculation caused simultaneous disease (dual-host infection) in mixed oil palm and taro plants. Ganoderma infection was less severe in taro plants compared to oil palm, whether in single or mixed planting. Over six months, oil palm root necrosis and disease index were reduced by 82% to 96% and 65% to 71%, respectively, while no significant effect was observed at nine months. The decay of Ganoderma-colonized wood improved by 44.1% to 84.0% in mixed planting, with no significant impact on mycelium viability. Taro plants did not inhibit oil palm growth, including plant height, leaf area, and relative growth rate of primary root length, in both the presence and the absence of Ganoderma infection. This study highlights the potential of mixed planting with taro to reduce Ganoderma disease in oil palm.

Impact of Humic Acid and Sulphur application on growth and yield of Indian Mustard under variable Water moisture regimes

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is an important oilseed crop cultivated in various regions of the world, particularly in India. However, its productivity faces limitations due to various abiotic factors, notably variable soil moisture. This study aimed to explore the influence of humic acid and sulphur application on Indian mustard growth and yield within different moisture regimes. A field experiment was conducted in rabi season, employing a split plot design with four replications. Four moisture treatments were imposed: (1) no post sowing irrigation, (2) one post sowing irrigation (3) two post sowing irrigation and (4) three post sowing irrigation. Within each moisture regime, four treatment groups were established: (A) control (no application), (B) humic acid alone, (C) sulphur alone, and (D) a combination of humic acid and sulphur. The results revealed significant improvements in various growth and yield parameters when humic acid and sulphur were applied, particularly under moisture stress conditions. Application of humic acid and sulphur enhanced root development, chlorophyll content, and photosynthetic rate, which ultimately led to increased plant height, leaf area, and biomass accumulation. Notably, the combined application exhibited synergistic effects, resulting in the highest yield increments, especially under severe moisture stress. This study provides valuable insights into the potential advantages of incorporating humic acid and sulphur as soil amendments in Indian mustard cultivation, particularly in moisture-variable regions. The results highlight the combined application’s effectiveness in mitigating water scarcity effects, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture and bolstering food security.

How residual plastic film affects the soil water–salt and cotton growth at the seeding stage

AbstractCotton holds a significant position among cash crops in China, with Xinjiang serving as the primary cotton‐growing region within the country. Agricultural practices involving plastic mulching have gained importance. However, the presence of residual plastic film affects the growth of cotton seedlings as well as the soil environment. Our study aimed to explore the impact of residual plastic film accumulation on the growth of cotton seedlings and the associated soil water‐salt environment. This was done through a barrel planting experiment, utilizing soil from cotton fields with varying durations of mulching. The study showed that when the mulching period exceeded 12 years (residual plastic film content of 260.77 kg hm−2), residual plastic film had a significant impact on cotton seedling growth and the soil environment. Residual plastic film reduces the seedling germination rate of cotton by up to 11.11% (7 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg hm−2). It also impedes the growth of cotton seedlings; plant height, stem thickness, and leaf area were reduced by 34.52%, 10.73%, and 37.18%, respectively (19 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg·hm−2). Compared with the treatment without residual plastic film, the shallow soil water content in the T5 treatment decreased by 1.19% (10 days after irrigation, 15 years of film mulching, residual plastic film content of 309.88 kg·hm−2). Residual plastic film in cotton fields subjected to long‐term mulching obstructs the normal growth and development of cotton seedlings while also impacting the transport of soil water and salt. Therefore, we recommend adopting biodegradable mulch or regularly recycling residual plastic film within mulched areas to prevent its accumulation and subsequent negative impacts.

Residue of biochar-organic fertilizer after one year of use on corn (Zea mays L.) plants in Alfisol

Introduction: Nutrient-poor soil can lead to reduced crop yields. Biochar-organic fertilizer has demonstrated positive effects over several growing seasons. However, the efficacy of biochar-organic fertilizers varies based on the raw materials used and the duration of their application in the soil. This study aims to assess the residues of biochar, manure, and compost one year after their application on maize plants in Alfisol. Methods: A 300 kg/ha dosage was employed for a single treatment of biochar, manure, and compost. Additionally, biochar was combined with manure or compost at a dose of 150 kg/ha each. The experiment utilized a randomized block design with nine treatments and three replications, including a control group. The treatments comprised biochar made from coconut shell and husk, compost, manure, shell+compost biochar mixture, shell+manure biochar mixture, husk+compost biochar mixture, and husk+manure biochar mixture. Corn variety Pertiwi 3 was harvested upon reaching physiological maturity. Results: Combining husk biochar with chicken manure exhibited the most favorable response regarding plant height, leaf area, and weight. Furthermore, combining cob biochar and chicken manure yielded optimal cob length, weight without seeds, and seed weight. Conclusion: After one year, applying shell biochar mixed with manure demonstrated the most significant residual effect on corn plants.

Effect of Sowing Date on the Growth and Yield of Three Cultivars of Kale Brassica oleracea L .var.acephala

The experiment was carried out at the research station of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape / College of Agriculture / Tikrit University, during the agricultural season 2022-202, to study the effect of sowing date on the growth and yield of three cultivars of kale. The experiment consisted two factors. The first factor included two sowing dates viz, 15/9/2021 and 1/10/2021, while second factors included three cultivars of kale namely: NeroDiTosccana, Tronchuda and Red Ursa. The experiment was laid out according to the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with a split plot system With three replicares.
 The results showed that, the sowing date 1/10 had highest values in percentage of germination and germination speed, while sowing date 1/10 recorded highest values in plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, plant yield and total yield 44.87 cm, 28.62 mm, 2267.5 cm2 plant-1, 529.65 g plant-1 and 17.71 tons ha-1, respectively. Meanwhile, Nero Di Tosccana cultivar gave significant increment in percentage of germination and plant height, whereas Red Ursa cultivar increased significantly in stem diameter, leaf area, plant yield and total yield 31.03 mm, 1716.9 cm2 plant-1, 446.99 g plant-1 and 14.99 ton ha-1 respectively. On the other hand, the interaction treatment between sowing date 15/9 and Nero Di Tosccana cultivar had highest values in percentage of germination and plant height. Whereas, sowing date 1/10 and Red Ursa cultivar recorded highest value in germination speed. But, sowing date 15/9 with Red Ursa cultivar gave significant increment in stem diameter, plant yield and total yield. While, the interaction treatment between sowing date 15/9 and Tronchuda cultivar increased significantly in leaf area.

Effect of Paitan Compost Fertilizer and Corn Rooting Rhizobakteri on the Growth and Yield of Glutinous Corn (Zea mays L. ceratina)

Glutinous rice corn crops in Java show low productivity despite their potential. Agricultural land issues in Indonesia, such as soil fertility and excessive use of inorganic fertilizers, persist. Tithonia diversifolia plants are utilized for composting to address these concerns. Additionally, corn root microorganisms act as biological fertilizer, enhancing plant growth. This study aims to investigate the interaction between Tithonia compost dosage and corn root Rhizobacteria on glutinous corn growth and yield. Conducted in two locations—laboratory for Rhizobacteria isolates and field for composting and planting—the research employed a Divided Plot Design with 36 treatment combinations. Observations included plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, cob count, cob diameter, cob weight, and cob length. Results indicate interaction effects between Rhizobacteria and compost dosage on leaf area growth at 28 days post-planting. Additionally, there's an impact on stem blight intensity at 42 days post-planting. Rhizobacteria dosage didn't significantly affect plant growth or cob yield parameters. However, paitan compost dosage influenced plant height, stem diameter, and cob count, with the best response seen at 14 tons/ha dosage.

Low nitrogen priming improves nitrogen uptake and assimilation adaptation to nitrogen deficit stress in wheat seedling.

Early-stage low nitrogen priming promotes root growth and delays leaf senescence through gene expression, enhancing nitrogen absorption and assimilation in wheat seedlings, thereby alleviating growth inhibition under nitrogen deficit stress and supporting normal seedling development. Verifying the strategies to reduce the amount of nitrogen (N) fertilizer while maintaining high crop yields is important for improving crop N use efficiency (NUE) and protecting the environment. To determine whether low N (LN) priming (LNP) can alleviate the impact of N-deficit stress on the growth of wheat seedlings and improve their tolerance to N-deficit stress, we conducted hydroponic experiments using two wheat cultivars, Yangmai 158 (YM158, LN tolerant) and Zaoyangmai (ZYM, LN sensitive) to study the effects of LNP on wheat seedlings under N-deficit stress. N-deficit stress decreased the plant dry weight, leaf area, and leaf N content (LNC), while LNP could significantly reduce this reduction. Distinct sensitivities to N-deficit stress were observed between the wheat cultivars, with ZYM showing an early decrease in leaf N content compared to YM158, which exhibited a late-stage reduction. LNP promoted root growth, expanded N uptake area, and upregulated the expression of TaNRT1.1, TaNRT2.1, and TaNRT2.2 in wheat seedlings, suggesting that LNP can enhance root N uptake capacity to increase N accumulation in plants. In addition, LNP improved the activity of glutamine synthase (GS) to enhance the capacity of N assimilation of plants. The relative expression of TaGS1 in the lower leaves of priming and stress (PS) was lower than that of no priming and stress (NS) after LNP, indicating that the rate of N transfer from the lower leaves to the upper leaves became slower after LNP, which alleviated the senescence of the lower leaves. The relative expression of TaGS2 was significantly increased, which might be related to the enhanced photorespiratory ammonia assimilation capacity after LNP, which reduced the N loss and maintained higher LNC. Therefore, LNP in the early stage can improve the N absorption and assimilation ability and maintain the normal N supply to alleviate the inhibition of N-deficit stress in wheat seedlings.

Identification and functional analysis of the LEAFY gene in longan flower induction

BackgroundFlowering at the right time is a very important factor affecting the stable annual yield of longan. However, a lack of knowledge of the regulatory mechanism and key genes of longan flowering restricts healthy development of the longan industry. Therefore, identifying relevant genes and analysing their regulatory mechanism are essential for scientific research and longan industry development.ResultsDlLFY (Dimocarpus longan LEAFY) contains a 1167 bp open reading frame and encodes 388 amino acids. The amino acid sequence has a typical LFY/FLO family domain. DlLFY was expressed in all tissues tested, except for the leaf, pericarp, and pulp, with the highest expression occurring in flower buds. Expression of DlLFY was significantly upregulated at the early flower induction stage in “SX” (“Shixia”). The results of subcellular localization and transactivation analysis showed that DlLFY is a typical transcription factor acting as a transcriptional activator. Moreover, overexpression of DlLFY in Arabidopsis promoted early flowering and restrained growth, resulting in reduced plant height and rosette leaf number and area in transgenic plants. DNA affinity purification sequencing (DAP-Seq) analysis showed that 13 flower-related genes corresponding to five homologous genes of Arabidopsis may have binding sites and be putative target genes. Among these five flower-related genes, only AtTFL1 (terminal flower 1) was strongly inhibited in transgenic lines.ConclusionTaken together, these results indicate that DlLFY plays a pivotal role in controlling longan flowering, possibly by interacting with TFL1.

Effects of Penoxsulam on Photosynthetic Characteristics and Safety Evaluation of Foxtail Millet

Foxtail millet planting has a long history and profound role in agricultural civilization. However, weeds have become one of the obstacles restricting the development of the foxtail millet industry. Penoxsulam, as an early post-emergence herbicide for controlling gramineous weeds in paddy fields, is effective for some broadleaf weeds. In this study, six different doses (CK, 0.5X, 1X, 2X, 3X, 4X) of penoxsulam were sprayed at the 3–5 leaf stage of the conventional variety Jingu 21 to study its effect on the growth and development of foxtail millet, in order to screen out the appropriate spraying concentration. The main results are as follows: Within 15 days after spraying penoxsulam, the plant height and leaf area of foxtail millet decreased with the increase in spraying dose, and gradually recovered 15–25 days after spraying, but there were still significant differences compared with CK. The photosynthetic pigment content, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), stomatal conductance (Gs), the maximum photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), photosynthetic system II actual photochemical efficiency (Y(II)), and photochemical quenching coefficient (qP) of foxtail millet decreased with an increase in the penoxsulam spraying dose, while the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) and non-photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ) showed an upward trend. There was almost no significant difference in each index between the spraying dose of 0.5X and 1X and CK, but the photosynthesis of foxtail millet leaves was still significantly inhibited under a spraying dose of 3X and 4X. Penoxsulam had certain growth-inhibiting effects on Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) Beauv. (E. crus-galli), Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop. (D. sanguinalis), Chenopodium album L. (C. album), and Amaranthus retroflexus L. (A. retroflexus) which increased as the spraying dosage increased. Our study found that spraying dose groups of 0.5X and 1X penoxsulam were safe for foxtail millet growth and could be used to control gramineous weeds in fields. Other spraying doses are not recommended in the field due to their serious phytotoxicity to foxtail millet, which provides a new measure for weed control in foxtail millet fields.

An Evaluation of the Effectivity of the Green Leaves Biostimulant on Lettuce Growth, Nutritional Quality, and Mineral Element Efficiencies under Optimal Growth Conditions.

The use of biostimulants is becoming a useful tool for increasing crop productivity while enhancing nutritional quality. However, new studies are necessary to confirm that the joint application of different types of biostimulants, together with bioactive compounds, is effective and not harmful to plants. This study examined the impact of applying the biostimulant Green Leaves, comprising Macrocystis algae extract and containing a mixture of amino acids, corn steep liquor extract, calcium, and the bioactive compound glycine betaine. The effect of applying two different doses (3 and 5 mL L-1) of this biostimulant was evaluated on lettuce plants, and growth and quality parameters were analyzed along with photosynthetic efficiency, nutritional status, and nutrient efficiency parameters. The application of Green Leaves improved plant weight (25%) and leaf area and enhanced the photosynthetic rate, the accumulation of soluble sugars and proteins, and the agronomic efficiency of all essential nutrients. The 3 mL L-1 dose improved the nutritional quality of lettuce plants, improving the concentration of phenolic compounds and ascorbate and the antioxidant capacity and reducing NO3- accumulation. The 5 mL L-1 dose improved the absorption of most nutrients, especially N, which reduced the need for fertilizers, thus reducing costs and environmental impact. In short, the Green Leaves product has been identified as a useful product for obtaining higher yield and better quality.

Screening of Popular Maize Hybrids against fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda

Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) was the member of noctuidae family which has got economic importance as polyphagous and extreme pest of many important crops, including maize in India and elsewhere. In this context, screening experiment was conducted by using 15 different maize cultivars viz., CP 818, NK 6240, GPMH 1110, GH 0727, 900 M Gold, NK 6801, SM- 2, S- 4717, GK 3207, KMH 225, KMH 8333, Sunny NMH 777, 30 B07, PMH 2244 and Kaveri minchu in MARS, Dharwad. The results revealed that PMH 2244 was recorded the least mean larval load (0.67 larvae per plant) compared to rest of the cultivars. Among fifteen different cultivars screened, Kaveri minchu recorded the highest mean leaf damage score (4.62) whereas, the hybrid PMH 224 recorded the least mean leaf damage score (0.73). The cultivars, PMH 2244, NK 6801 and 900 M Gold were recorded with the least egg mass (0.33 per plant) whereas, the hybrids SM- 2 and Kaveri minchu were recorded with the highest egg mass of 0.63 and 0.61 per plant, respectively. Biophysical parameters of plant such as plant height, leaf area, stem girth and trichome density have been implicated in maize resistance to the fall armyworm. All the plant characters except leaf area which are mentioned above showed significant negative correlation with fall armyworm infestation whereas, leaf area was found significantly positive correlation.

Optimizing Growth Parameters of Bell Pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) Through Comprehensive Nutrient Management on Farm of the Department of Horticulture, MGCGV, Chitrakoot, Madhya Pradesh, India

The study was conducted at the Research Farm of the Department of Horticulture, MGCGV, Chitrakoot. Bell pepper, a popular vegetable crop, faces challenges related to growth and productivity. This research aimed to determine the most suitable treatment for enhancing the growth parameters of Bell pepper plants.
 The experiment involved a comprehensive approach, combining organic nutrient management, bioenhancers, and chemical fertilizers. Various treatments were applied to evaluate their impact on the growth parameters of Bell pepper. These parameters included plant height, leaf area, flowering, fruit set, and yield. Additionally, soil health and nutrient dynamics were assessed to understand the long-term sustainability of the treatments.
 Preliminary findings suggest that a balanced combination of organic nutrients, bioenhancers, and judicious use of chemical fertilizers significantly improved the growth parameters of Bell pepper. This approach not only promoted vigorous vegetative growth but also enhanced reproductive stages, leading to higher fruit set and ultimately increased yield. Moreover, the study provides insights into the potential for sustainable Bell pepper cultivation practices.
 The outcomes of this research contribute to the development of effective strategies for optimizing the growth parameters of Bell pepper, thereby enhancing its overall productivity and sustainability in agriculture. Further investigation is recommended to validate and fine-tune these findings for broader adoption in Bell pepper cultivation.