Maximum Root Length Research Articles

Correlation Between Initial Nematode Population Density and Crop Losses Caused by Heterodera avenae in Wheat

An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of different inoculums levels(0, 2, 4, 8 and 16 cyst/plant)H. avenae on wheat. Among different inoculums level, highest females/5 g root (32.75), cysts per 200 cc soil (43.07) and juveniles per 200 cc soil (358.75) were recorded in 16 cyst/plant whereas lowest were recorded in 2 cyst/plant. Maximum shoot length (79.85 cm), shoot weight (28.84 g), root length (32.10 cm), root weight (7.71 g), fodder yield (23.72) and grain yield (15.81) were recorded in uninoculated plants (0 cyst/plant) whereas minimum was at 16 cyst/ plant. Significant reduction in plant growth characters were observed at and above 4 cyst/plant. Hence, experimental result revealed threshold level of 4 cyst per plant on wheat.

Intraspecific variation in root system structure in a Pinus thunbergii stand grown in a gravelly spit coast.

ABSTRACT Root systems of Pinus thunbergii planted in coastal forests exhibit high phenotypic plasticity under edaphic conditions. The objectives of this study were as follows: 1) to determine intraspecific variation in root system traits, maximum root depth and length of horizontal roots of P. thunbergii in a gravelly spit within a stand by excavation of entire root systems, and root system structure modelling from photographs; and 2) to determine whether the root system traits can be inferred from aboveground traits. The P. thunbergii trees grew twisting roots through the hard soil layer of sand and gravel and exhibited variation in root systems; most individuals had inherent tap root systems, but one had a two-tiered thick horizontal root system with a thinner tap root. Although the maximum length of the horizontal root had no relationship with the aboveground traits, the maximum root depth of P. thunbergii was significantly related to tree height. This suggests that tree height can be a predictive indicator of root depth, which is valuable for the rehabilitation of disaster-resistant coastal forests. Both surface and solid models of root system were produced using structure-from-motion with a multi-view stereophotogrammetry method, which enabled continuous estimation of the sum of the root cross-sectional area at any depth in the depth direction. The new method of reconstructing root system models was effective for post-analysis of traits after excavation. We concluded that intraspecific variations in the root system traits of P. thunbergii were observed even at the stand level on a gravelly spit coast.

Response surface methodology-based optimization of hairy roots cultures for in vitro AM production

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can do wonders in promoting the crop growth as well maintaining soil health. In vitro root organ culture technology is an exciting avenue for AM biofertilizer production. This study aims to optimize the key influencing factors for enhancing the hairy root production used for in vitro AMF culturing using response surface methodology, a statistical and mathematical tool used for designing optimization studies. Study uses Rhizobium rhizogenes MTCC 2364 for transformation in carrot explant. Factors considered for optimization are concentration of gelling agent (phytagel), carbon source (sucrose) and pH of the Modified Strullu and Romand medium (MSR). Design Expert software uses second order polynomial regression equation for predicting the outcome of each experiment. Totally, 17 experiments were run following Box-Behnken design and average hairy root length and average side branch emergence were taken as response. ANOVA analysis reveals that the concentration of phytagel and sucrose had a strong influence on root length, while the phytagel and pH of the medium had a strong effect on side branch emergence. Overall, taking into account the both responses, concentration of phytagel had a significant impact on hairy root production. The maximum average hairy root length obtained was 1.12 cm and number of side branches emerged were 6.78 per day. Based on these results, the optimal parameters were MSR medium with 3gL-1 phytagel, 11gL-1 sucrose and a pH of 4 for boosting hairy root development. This study is a cost-effective approach and minimizes the time taken for establishing the hairy root technology.

Methods of Breaking Seed Dormancy for Four Species of Ornamental Cacti

The aim of this study was to investigate methods for breaking the seed dormancy of cacti that are cultivated in Thailand. To stimulate seed germination and decrease the production time for cacti, the research used four cacti species: Astrophytum asterias, Echinocactus grusonii, Myrtillocactus geometrizans, and Turbinicarpus alonsoi, which are extensively grown as ornamental cacti species in Thailand. The experimental design used in this study was a completely randomized design (CRD). The pot experiment consisted of 4 dormancy breaking methods and six replicates, 30 seeds per pot. For the control, seeds were sown onto planting media directly. In the experimental samples, seeds were subjected to different pre-soaking treatments: soaking for 24 h in room temperature water (28 2oC), GA3 500 ppm for 24 h, and H2SO4 (50%) for 30 min. The seed germination and plant growth data were collected after sowing cacti seeds for two months. The results showed that soaking cacti seeds in room temperature water produced the highest germination rates for A. asterias, E. grusonii, and M. geometrizans. In addition, this treatment also reduced the production time of M. geometrizans. Concurrently, A. asterias, E. grusonii, and M. geometrizans presented higher stem diameters and root lengths of the seedlings, as well as the best result on the seedling vigor of cacti. Soaking seeds with GA3 resulted in the highest germination percentage of T. alonsoi and accelerated seed germination of A. Asterias, and T. alonsoi. Moreover, this treatment led to the maximum root lengths and seedling vigor of T. alonsoi. However, soaking seeds with H2SO4 was a treatment that gave E. grusonii the maximum root length and seedling vigor.

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Yield and Quality of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv. Pusa Himani

In this report, we compared the integrated effect of FYM, vermicompost, poultry manure with inorganic fertilizers incorporated with PSB for yield in radish cv. Pusa Himani in response of morphological, yield as well as quality attributes. As per data analysis T6 [NPK (75%) + vermicompost (25% of N) + PSB] significantly enhanced the highest plant height, leaf length, number of leaves per plant, fresh weight of shoot and dry weight of shoot at 20 DAS, 40 DAS and at harvest, respectively. Similarly, at harvest maximum root length, maximum root diameter, maximum average weight of root, maximum yield per hectare, minimum days to harvest and quality parameters i.e. T.S.S., ascorbic acid, chlorophyll content of leaves, net return and B-C ratio in comparison to all concentration with all integrated nutrient combination. So, we may conclude that [NPK (75%) + vermicompost (25% of N) + PSB] increase yield by stimulating source activity as well improves utilization of PGR (plant growth regulators).

Root puppet masters: Infauna shift trait-productivity relationships in submerged aquatic vegetation communities.

Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) growth can be limited by light and nutrient availability. Infauna are common inhabitants of SAV meadows. Their activity increases nutrient mobility, and they can positively affect plant growth, but we do not know their role in plant trait-biomass production relationships. We approached this problem using a 15-week insitu transplant experiment in the Baltic Sea with experimental additions of Macoma balthica, a sedentary bivalve, to experimental SAV communities. Experimental plant communities were tricultures with varying species composition, compiled from a pool of six different species, to create an experimental gradient of trait community weighted means that allowed us to detect changes more clearly in plant trait-biomass production relationships in response to the M. balthica treatment. We evaluated the relationships between plant height, leaf area, maximum root length (MMRL), specific root length (SRL), and SAV biomass production, then compared M. balthica condition index (soft tissue biomass [WW, mg]/valve length [mm]) to plant community leaf tissue nutrient concentrations (N (%DW), δ15N). Community biomass production was significantly related to plant height in the control treatment, but this relationship was decoupled in the M. balthica treatment, where community biomass production was instead significantly related to MMRL and SRL. This suggested a shift in the predominant SAV growth strategy, from height-related to root-related community biomass production. Leaf tissue δ15N was significantly related to M. balthica condition index. The growth of one species, Potamogeton perfoliatus, was significantly inhibited by the M. balthica treatment. Our results show that infauna have an important role in the plant traits related to community biomass production, and they have the potential to shape plant community structure via selective influences on different plant species.

Effects of copper sulphate stress on the morphological and biochemical characteristics of Spinacia oleracea and Avena sativa

Plants are subjected to various biotic and abiotic stresses that significantly impact their growth and productivity. To achieve balanced crop growth and yield, including for leafy vegetables, the continuous application of micronutrient is crucial. This study investigates the effects of different concentrations of copper sulphate (0, 75, 125, and 175 ppm) on the morphological and biochemical features of Spinacia oleracea and Avena sativa. Morphological parameters such as plant height, leaf area, root length, and fresh and dry weights were optimized at a concentration of 75 ppm copper sulfate. At this concentration, chlorophyll a & b levels increased significantly in Spinacia oleracea (462.9 and 249.8 \U0001d707\U0001d454/\U0001d454), and Avena sativa (404.7 and 437.63\U0001d707\U0001d454/\U0001d454). However, carotenoid content and sugar levels in Spinacia oleracea were negatively affected, while sugar content in Avena sativa increased at 125 ppm (941.6 µg/ml). Protein content increased in Spinacia oleracea (75 ppm, 180.3 µg/ml) but decreased in Avena sativa. Phenol content peaked in both plants at 75 ppm (362.2 and 244.5 µg/ml). Higher concentrations (175 ppm) of copper sulfate reduced plant productivity and health. Plants exposed to control and optimal concentrations (75 and 125 ppm) of copper sulpate exhibited the best health and growth compared to those subjected to higher concentrations. Maximum plant height, leaf area, root length, fresh and dry weights were observed at lower concentrations (75 and 125 ppm) of copper sulfate, while higher concentrations caused toxicity. Optimal copper sulfate levels enhanced chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, protein, and phenol contents but inhibited sugar and carotenoid contents in both Spinacia oleracea and Avena sativa. Overall, increased copper sulfate treatment adversely affected the growth parameters and biochemical profiles of these plants.

COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CHITOSAN AND AUXIN ON IN VITRO AND EX VITRO ROOTING OF Vaccinium corymbosum L.

A highly efficient micropropagation process can be achieved by using proper conditions for root initiation and growth of regenerated shoots. The efficiency of auxin and chitosan on in vitro rhizogenesis of the highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) cv. Liberty was developed. After the multiplication stage, explants were transferred to Woody Plant Medium (WPM) supplemented with 0.1 mg dm–3 zeatin and 1.0 or 2.0 mg dm–3 of the auxin indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), or chitosan with a molecular weight of 800 kDa at a concentration of 20 or 40 ppm. Among the tested combinations, the maximum mean shoot and root length (6.28 and 1.73 cm, respectively) were recorded for WPM with 0.1 mg dm–3 zeatin and 2.0 mg dm–3 IBA. The higher chitosan concentration in the WPM medium increased the length of shoots and roots. The highest percentage (100%) of rooted plants was obtained on WPM with the addition of 0.1 mg dm–3 zeatin and 40 ppm chitosan. Moreover, leaves of the highbush blueberries from this medium were brighter (L* from 22% to 36%) and greener (a* -2.70 and -4.56, respectively) compared with the leaves of plants grown on WPM containing IBA.

Vegetative Propagation of Wild Prometheum sempervivoides (Fischer Ex M. Bieb.) H. Ohba by Leaf Cutting: Effects of Auxin and Some Substances

The aim of the research is to determine the effects of different rooting contents [control (water), plant growth regulator-rooting hormone (H1: 0.25 g l-1, H2: 0.50 g l-1 and H3: 1.0 g l-1), cinnamon powder (T) and Aloe vera gel (AV)] and two different planting times on the rooting of leaf cuttings prepared from the stock mother plants of wild Prometheum sempervivoides (Fisch. ex Bieb.) H. Ohba taxon. Observations and measurements of vitality rate (%), number of rooted cuttings (NR), number of callusing cuttings (NC), maximum root length (MRL), rooting rate (%) and rooting scale (1-5) were made on cuttings whose rooting was completed. The results were evaluated statistically. The most positive rooting effect was determined in the H3 application, which is the highest dose of the commercial rooting hormone tested in the study. Cinnamon powder application was determined as a more effective natural extract for rooting leaf cuttings of P. sempervivoides when compared to Aloe vera gel application. At the end of our study, in which the effects of different planting times were also examined, it was determined that planting the leaf cuttings of P. sempervivoides as soon as they were taken from the stock mother plant had a positive effect on rooting. The very good quality roots were observed in H1 (0 h), H2 (0 h), H3 (0 h) and H3 (24 h) applications. These applications can be recommended for rooting the leaf cuttings of P. sempervivoides succulent plant. It was also concluded that P. sempervivoides can be reproduced by vegetative propagation method using leaf cuttings.

Unveiling the genetic potential of Terminalia chebula Retz. accessions from North-East and South India: A morphometric analysis

This study examined genetic diversity and growth performance of thirty Terminalia chebula genotypes from various regions of India. Seedlings were evaluated for growth attributes over 180 days after transplanting (DAT). Significant variations were observed across accessions for traits like shoot length, root length, collar diameter and volume. MHTC 04 showed superior performance, with maximum shoot length (36.23 cm) and root length (38.47 cm) at 180 DAT. KETC 05 exhibited the highest collar diameter (1.08 cm) and volume index (39.35) at 180 DAT. The genetic analysis revealed low to moderate PCV and GCV for most traits. Volume index showed the highest PCV (47.31 %) and GCV (47.23 %). High heritability (>95 %) was observed for several traits viz., root length, collar diameter and volume index. Path coefficient analysis identified collar diameter and shoot fresh weight as having the strongest positive direct effects on quality index. Cluster analysis grouped 30 genotypes into 10 clusters with cluster II being the largest (8 progenies). Quality index contributed the maximum (59.30 %) towards divergence followed by shoot dry weight (13.94 %) and volume index (8.28 %). This study identified promising genotypes and important traits for T. chebula improvement programmes, highlighting the potential for selective breeding to enhance the seedling quality and growth performance.

Response of submerged macrophytes of different growth forms to multiple sediment remediation measures for hardened sediment.

Climate change and intensified human activities have disrupted the natural hydrological regime and rhythm of river-connected lakes, extending the dry season, increasing water loss, and exposing previously submerged lake floors. This exposure has led to significant sediment hardening, which directly impacts submerged macrophytes. However, strategies to mitigate the negative effects of hardened sediments and promote the growth and development of submerged macrophytes remain largely unexplored. In this study, we selected typical hardened sediment from Dongting Lake to investigate the response of different growth forms of submerged macrophytes to multiple sediment remediation measures (loosening and litter addition) using a mesocosm experiment. The results indicated that loosening alone uniformly benefited all submerged macrophytes by increasing total biomass, relative growth rate (RGR), and the root/shoot ratio. Additionally, loosening altered the root traits of submerged macrophytes, promoting maximum root length (MRL) while reducing average root diameter (ARD). Moreover, different submerged macrophytes exhibited species-specific responses to the combination of loosening and litter addition. Notably, the combination of loosening and adding Miscanthus lutarioriparius litter had an antagonistic effect on the growth of Potamogeton wrightii and Myriophyllum spicatum. The response of functional traits of submerged macrophytes with similar growth forms to the same treatment was consistent. Our findings suggest that future sediment remediation efforts should consider matching specific treatments with the growth forms of submerged macrophytes to achieve optimal outcomes.

The Effect of Biofertilizer Type and Chicken Manure Dosage on the Growth and Yield of Kale (Brassica oleraceae L.)

Aims: To study the effect of the type of biofertilizer and the dose of chicken manure on the growth and yield of kailan (Brassica oleraceae L.). Study Design: Experimental design, using factorial randomized block design consisting of two factors with three replications. Place and Duration of Study: Experimental Station of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas HKBP Nommensen in Medan, from June to October 2023. Methodology: The research used a factorial randomized block design consisting of two factors, namely the type of biofertilizer (P) and the dose of chicken manure (A), with three replications. The type of biofertilizer consisted of four levels, namely: P0 = No application of biofertilizer (control), P1 = IMO of pineapple peel (100 ml/l water), P2 = Eco-enzyme (1 ml/liter water), and P3 = Bio-Extreme biofertilizer (5 ml/m2). The dose of chicken manure (A) consisted of three levels, namely: A0 = 0 tons/ha (control), A1 = 15 tons/ha, and A2 = 30 tons/ha. Biofertilizer according to the treatment level was applied four times at 1 week before transplanting and 1, 2 and 3 weeks after transplanting, while the chicken manure was applied at 1 week before transplanting. The parameters observed were: plant height, number of leaves, root volume, root length, wet weight per plot, selling weight per plot, and yield per hectare. Results: Both the type of biofertilizer and the dose of chicken manure treatments had no significant effect on all parameters, whereas the interaction between the type of biofertilizer and the dose of chicken manure had a significant effect on root length, but had no significant effect on other parameters. The relation between root length and the dose of chicken manure using IMO of pineapple peel was positive linear, with mathematical equation yP1 = 0.1733 x + 6.3833, with coefficient of determination R2 = 0.0788 and coefficient of correlation r = 0.2807, while the one using EE was positive quadratic, with mathematical equation yP2 = -0.3867 x2 + 0.5733 x + 7.25, with coefficient of determination R2 = 1 and coefficient of correlation r = 1. Conclusion: The interaction between the type of biofertilizer and the dose of chicken manure had a significant effect on the root length of kale but had no significant effect on plant height and number of leaves at 4 WAT, root volume, wet weight per plot, selling weight per plot and yield per hectare. The best combination was obtained in P2A1 (eco enzyme as biofertilizer and chicken manure dose of 15 tons/ha) but it was not significantly different from the combinations of P1A0, P1A1, P2A2, P3A0, P3A1 and P3A2. With eco enzyme treatment, the relationship between the dose of chicken manure and root length was positive quadratic with the optimum dose of chicken manure for a maximum root length of 7.5 cm being 7.4 tons/ha. The dose of chicken manure had a significant effect on root length, but had no significant effect on other parameters, while the type of biofertilizer had no significant effect on all parameters.

Precise partial root-zone irrigation technique and potassium-zinc fertigation management improve maize physio-biochemical responses, yield, and water use in arid climate

BackgroundTo optimize irrigation water use and productivity, understanding the interactions between plants, irrigation techniques, and fertilization practices is crucial. Therefore, the experiment aims to assess the effectiveness of two application methods of potassium humate combined with chelated zinc under partial root-zone drip irrigation techniques on maize nutrient uptake, yield, and irrigation water use efficiency across two irrigation levels.MethodsOpen-field experiments were carried out in two summer seasons of 2021 and 2022 under alternate and fixed partial root-zone drip irrigation techniques to investigate their impacts at two irrigation levels and applied foliar and soil applications of potassium humate or chelated zinc in a sole and combinations on maize.ResultsDeficit irrigation significantly increased hydrogen peroxide levels and decreased proline, antioxidant enzymes, carbohydrate, chlorophyll (a + b), and nutrient uptake in both partial root-zone techniques. The implementation of combined soil application of potassium humate and chelated zinc under drought conditions on maize led to varying impacts on antioxidant enzymes and nutritional status, depending on the type of partial root-zone technique. Meanwhile, the results showed that fixed partial root-zone irrigation diminished the negative effects of drought stress by enhancing phosphorus uptake (53.8%), potassium uptake (59.2%), proline (74.4%) and catalase (75%); compared to the control. These enhancements may contribute to improving the defense system of maize plants in such conditions. On the other hand, the same previous treatments under alternate partial root zone modified the defense mechanism of plants and improved the contents of peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and the uptake of magnesium, zinc, and iron by 81.3%, 82.3%, 85.1%, 56.9%, and 80.2%, respectively.ConclusionsAdopting 75% of the irrigation requirements and treating maize plants with the soil application of 3 g l−1 potassium humate combined with 1.25 kg ha−1 chelated zinc under alternate partial root-zone technique, resulted in the maximum root length, leaf water content, chlorophyll content, yield, and irrigation water use efficiency.

Impact of zinc and molybdenum, in bulk and nano forms, on red bean: photosynthesis, root traits, nitrate reduction, antioxidant enzymes, and yield under drought stress

The limitation of water and unfavorable soil conditions for plant’s nutrient absorption present a hurdle to the growth and yield of red beans under drought stress conditions. Micronutrients, particularly zinc and molybdenum, show promise in mitigating drought effects. Various irrigation levels (100% and 70% of field capacity) and nutrient application methods were tested in the field (two locations) and the greenhouse in 2022. Parameters such as photosynthesis, gas exchange, root characteristics, nitrate reductase, antioxidant enzymes, and yield were evaluated. The combination of nano zinc priming (NZnP 150 mg L−1) and foliar spraying of nano zinc (FSNZn 0.04 mg L−1) at 100% field capacity resulted in the highest photosynthesis, gas exchange, and yield. Water stress increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes. In greenhouse test, NZnP (150 mg L−1) + FSNZn (0.04 mg L−1) at 100% field capacity promoted maximum root length and nitrate reductase activity. Overall, NZnP + FSNZn at 100% field capacity proved most effective for morphological and biochemical root characteristics and yield. Drought stress reduced red bean yield, but NZnP + FSNZn mitigated some adverse effects. Nano forms of zinc and molybdenum were more effective in mitigating drought stress. Location significantly influenced plant development, with lower temperatures delaying reproductive phase transition, leading to better vegetative and reproductive traits compared to the location with higher temperature.

Study on Associations between Root and Aboveground Growth of Mixed-Planting Seedlings of Populus tomentosa and Pinus tabuliformis under Soil Nutrient Heterogeneity

Near-natural transformation can convert artificial monoculture forests into mixed forests with diverse ages, multi-layered structures, and enhanced ecological functions. This transformation optimizes stand structure, improves soil physical and chemical properties, and enhances stand productivity and species diversity. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the underground roots and aboveground growth of Pinus tabuliformis and Populus tomentosa under conditions of nutrient heterogeneity, with the goal of advancing plantation transformation. This research focused on 1-year-old Populus tomentosa and 5-year-old Pinus tabuliformis, employing two planting densities (25 cm and 50 cm) and three fertilization levels, low (50 g·m−2), medium (100 g·m−2), and high (200 g·m−2), using Stanley Potassium sulfate complex fertilizer (N:P:K = 15:15:15). Each treatment had three replicates, resulting in a total of nine experimental groups, all planted in circular plots with a radius of 1 m. Standard major axis (SMA) regression was used to analyze the allometric relationship between underground fine root biomass and aboveground organ biomass. This study further explored correlations between fine root length, root surface area, volume, biomass, and aboveground biomass, culminating in a mixed-effects model. The mixed-effects model quantified the relationships between underground roots and aboveground growth in varying soil nutrient environments. The results indicated optimal root growth in Populus tomentosa and Pinus tabuliformis, characterized by maximum root length, surface area, and volume, under conditions of 200 g·m−2 soil nutrient concentration and 50 cm planting distance; Populus tomentosa fine roots had a vertical center at a depth of 8.5 cm, whereas Pinus tabuliformis roots were centered at depths of 5–7.5 cm, indicating differing competitive strategies. Pinus tabuliformis exhibited competitive superiority in the soil’s surface layer, in contrast to Populus tomentosa, which thrived in deeper layers. The study of the allometric growth model revealed that under conditions where the nutrient gradient was 200 g·m−2 and the planting distance was 25 cm, Populus tomentosa demonstrated its highest allometric growth index (2.801), indicative of positive allometric growth. Furthermore, there was a notable inclination of resource allocation towards the aboveground, which enhances the accumulation of aboveground biomass. The mixed-effects model equation showed a clear linear relationship between underground roots and aboveground biomass. The final fitting coefficient of the model was high, providing a robust theoretical basis for future management practices. The mixed-effects model revealed the following hierarchy of fixed-effect coefficients for root system characteristics affecting aboveground biomass: fine root volume (132.11) > fine root biomass (6.462) > root surface area (−4.053) > fine root length (0.201). In subsequent plantation reconstruction and forest management, increasing soil fertility and planting distance can promote the growth of underground roots and biomass accumulation. Appropriately increasing soil fertility and reducing planting distance can effectively promote aboveground biomass accumulation, achieving sustainable forest development.

Exploring the variability of root system architecture under drought stress in heat-tolerant spring-wheat lines

Background and aimsGlobal wheat production is under threat due to climate change, specifically heat and drought and their combination. This study aims to address the root trait responses of heat-tolerant wheat genotypes to drought.MethodsThe variability in root traits of CIMMYT wheat lines, which were previously developed for heat stress tolerance (HTWL), was evaluated alongside 10 Pakistani-approved varieties under three cultivation conditions and soil moisture levels.ResultsOur findings revealed that the plasticity of the wheat root system is highly pronounced, with rhizosphere conditions exerting a more substantial influence (5–49%) than the genotypic response (1–14%). Furthermore, in the hydroponic and pot system, we noted higher maximum-root length (1.5–1.8 fold) and root-to-shoot ratio (3.4–10.6 fold) as compared to field condition, while the root biomass was substantially higher in the field trial (3-57 fold). Nonetheless, persistent drought conditions exerted contrasting impact with reduction in most of the traits except specific root length and harvest index which were increased under drought.ConclusionsThe variation in root traits against drought indicates the potential for the development of improved genotypes that can withstand multiple stresses. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider rhizosphere conditions when selecting genotypes, as the plasticity of wheat roots may lead to misinterpretations if rhizosphere conditions are disregarded. Root dry weight and root-to-shoot ratio are more stable traits as compared to maximum root length and specific root length. It is recommended to evaluate a broader range of rhizosphere conditions to select tolerant genotypes.

Effect of integrated nutrient management on the growth and productivity of four high-yielding rice varieties of Eastern India

Aim: To investigate the integrated nutrient management in agricultural fields using cow dung manure and poultry manure as organic, and NPK as inorganic fertilizer at varied ratios. Methodology: Four rice varieties were selected for the experiment viz., MTU 1010, IET 4786, IET 17430, and IET 9947 under nine organic manure and inorganic fertilizer combinations in different ratios with one control treatment. The cultivation was carried out in three replications in a randomized complete block design. The biometric observations were noted at 30, 55, and 80 days after transplant (DAT). Leaf Area Index (LAI), Crop Growth Rate (CGR), and grain yield were calculated for the varieties under varied treatments. Results: Biometric observation and growth indices confirmed that the treatment T3 showed the highest value among all other treatments for shoot length, dry matter, LAI and LAD for all varieties. Treatment T7 recorded the maximum root length. For CGR treatment T2 and T3 recorded highest value for different varieties. Soil nutrient results suggest that treatment T2-T4 and T6-T8 showed the highest N, P and K content. The results showed significant difference (p<0.05) in grain yield for all the treatments in all varieties, where T3 recorded the highest value. Interpretation: The year experiment revealed that integrated nutrient application resulted in considerably greater growth and productivity compared to the control and 100% inorganic fertilizer-treated cultivation. Key words: Cow dung, Integrated nutrient management, Poultry manure, Plant growth indices, Rice productivity Aim: To investigate the integrated nutrient management in agricultural fields using cow dung manure and poultry manure as organic, and NPK as inorganic fertilizer at varied ratios. Methodology: Four rice varieties were selected for the experiment viz., MTU 1010, IET 4786, IET 17430, and IET 9947 under nine organic manure and inorganic fertilizer combinations in different ratios with one control treatment. The cultivation was carried out in three replications in a randomized complete block design. The biometric observations were noted at 30, 55, and 80 days after transplant (DAT). Leaf Area Index (LAI), Crop Growth Rate (CGR), and grain yield were calculated for the varieties under varied treatments. Results: Biometric observation and growth indices confirmed that the treatment T3 showed the highest value among all other treatments for shoot length, dry matter, LAI and LAD for all varieties. Treatment T7 recorded the maximum root length. For CGR treatment T2 and T3 recorded highest value for different varieties. Soil nutrient results suggest that treatment T2-T4 and T6-T8 showed the highest N, P and K content. The results showed significant difference (p<0.05) in grain yield for all the treatments in all varieties, where T3 recorded the highest value. Interpretation: The year experiment revealed that integrated nutrient application resulted in considerably greater growth and productivity compared to the control and 100% inorganic fertilizer-treated cultivation. Key words: Cow dung, Integrated nutrient management, Poultry manure, Plant growth indices, Rice productivity

Effect of Harvest Time on Growth and Bioactive Compounds in Salvia miltiorrhiza.

Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) is a perennial medicinal plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is adapted to a wide range of soil pH with the potential to serve as an alternative crop in the United States. To enhance its cultivation and economic viability, it is crucial to develop production practices that maximize bioactive compound yields for danshen. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different harvest times on plant growth and subsequent yields of bioactive components of danshen. Three harvest times were selected (60, 120, or 180 days after transplanting [DAT]). In general, plants harvested at 180 DAT had higher plant growth index (PGI), shoot number, shoot weight, root number, maximum root length, maximum root diameter, and root weight compared to plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT. However, plants harvested at 60 or 120 DAT had higher SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) values. Plants harvested at 120 or 180 DAT had a higher content of tanshinone I, tanshinone IIA, cryptotanshinone, and salvianolic acid B compared to those harvested at 60 DAT. This study provides insights for optimizing the time of harvest of danshen to maximize plant growth and bioactive compound production.

ASSIMILATED EVALUATION OF PLANT GROWTH-PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA ON SEED-BORNE MYCOFLORA AND SEED VIGOUR ASSOCIATED WITH COMMERCIAL VARIETIES OF WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.)

Among all cereal crops, wheat is the most important staple food globally and in Pakistan. In this study, two parameters, mainly the effect of PGPR inoculation on seed germination, emergence and overall seed vigour under different temperature conditions and wheat associated seed-borne mycoflora in 10 commercial wheat cultivars, were investigated. A temperature of 20 °C was found to be more effective than 15 °C and 25 °C, which showed maximum seed germination and seed vigour. Ojala 2016 and Johar 2016 were found to have 100% germination percentage at 20 °C in seeds inoculated with a dual bacterial inoculum. Ojala 2016 in dual inoculation (PGPR 2) experiment had maximum shoot and root length (5.67cm and 8.07cm). Seed-borne mycoflora associated with 10 varieties of wheat were examined through the blotter paper method and agar plate method. Eleven fungal species were isolated and identified from seeds. Fungal species were identified using microscopic identification techniques. Agar plate method was found to be most efficient for fungal isolation. Fungal incidence was higher in unsterilized seeds than sterilized seeds. Most frequently occurring fungal species were Penicillium (46%, 43%) and Aspergillus niger (40%, 56%) in sterilized and unsterilized treatments of blotter paper. In agar plate method, Penicillium (76%, 76%) and A. niger (70%, 83%) were frequently occurring species. Sahar 2008 and Aas 2011 showed maximum contamination among all ten varieties of wheat. This experiment concluded that PGPR have the potential to boost plant growth and enhance the vigour of seed germination.

Effect of different growing media on growth, yield and quality of microgreens under greenhouse condition

The present investigation entitled “Effect of different growing media on growth, yield and quality of microgreens under greenhouse condition”was carried out at Hi-tech Horticultural Park, College of Horticulture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during the year 2023. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design with factorial concept (FRBD) with two factors. The treatments consisted of three levels of growing media i.e., Soil + Vermicompost (1:1 V/V), Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1 V/V) and Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1:1 V/V/V) with five levels of crops i.e., Fenugreek, Onion, Palak, Beet root and Red cabbage. The results on interaction effect of growing media and crops indicated that the treatmentcombination of G3C5 [{Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1:1 V/V/V)} + Red cabbage] recorded maximum germination (89.33 %), number of cells harvested per plug tray (47.67), percentage of cells harvested per plug tray (88.27 %), antioxidant activity (52.10 %), carotenoids content (12.46 mg/100 g)and minimum mortality (1.19 %).However, G2C2 [{Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1V/V)} + Onion] recorded maximum length of microgreens (9.17 cm), G2C1 [{Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1 V/V)} + Fenugreek]recorded maximum root length (4.84cm), G2C5 [{Cocopeat +Vermicompost (1:1 V/V)} + Red cabbage] recorded maximum number of roots (5.07) and G3C4 [{Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1:1 V/V/V)} + Beet root] recorded maximum yield per plug tray (19.93 g). Whereas, maximum chlorophyll content (1.21 mg/g) was noted in G3C3 [{Soil + Cocopeat + Vermicompost (1:1:1 V/V/V)} + Palak].