Split-plot Research Articles

Study of Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

The study was conducted under All India Coordinated Research project on potato at Research cum Instructional farm, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, (C.G.) during Rabi season 2021-22, in split plot design with three replications, for this research the experimental material consisting of twenty potato genotypes including two check variety Kufri Khyati and Kufri Chipsona-1.With three Nitrogen levels (0, 180 and 250 kg N/ ha), to find out the N requirement and Nitrogen use efficiency of Potato genotypes. The results of the present experiment revealed that all the genotypes are showing genotypic variability for NUE, there is sufficient variation for NUE. The genotypes used in the experiment show response to nitrogen and performing different the same genotype in three different nitrogen levels, among the twenty genotypes P-73 recorded maximum Nitrogen Use efficiency at all the levels of nitrogen followed by Kufri Mohan and Kufri Lalima. Genotype P-73 proved to possess high tolerance to N stress and was the most nitrogen-efficient variety followed by Kufri Mohan and Kufri Neelkanth. This experiment can be concluded that, the variety responded the same at 180 and 250 Kg Nitrogen can be recommended to apply only 180 kg of Nitrogen, the knowledge of NUE can save the money and land of farmers by minimal use of Nitrogen.

Effect of Time of Foliar Application of Different Bio-stimulants on Growth, Yield and Economics of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in Mid Hills of Himachal Pradesh, India

The field experiment was conducted at Shoolini University, Solan during rabi season of 2023-24 to study the effect of time of foliar application of different bio-stimulants on growth, yield and economics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh. The soil of experimental field was sandy loam in texture, slightly alkaline in reaction with EC in safer range, higher in organic carbon and phosphorus, medium in available nitrogen and potassium. The field experiment was laid out in split plot design comprising three time of foliar application in main plot viz. (G1) Pre-flowering, (G2) Pod initiation and (G3) Pre-flowering + Pod initiation and four Bio-stimulants in sub-plot viz. (B1) Vermiwash at 10% solution, (B2) Cow urine at 10% solution, (B3) Jeevamrit at 10% solution and (B4) Panchagavya at 3% solution. Recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (30:60:30 kg ha-1) were applied through urea, SSP and MOP, respectively at the time of sowing as basal dose. Himachal Channa-2 variety of chickpea was used for sowing. The results indicated that the foliar application of Panchagavya at 3% solution at Pre-flowering + Pod initiation recorded significantly higher yield attributes and yield and economics viz. number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, grain, straw, biological yield, gross returns, net returns and BCR over rest of the treatments.

Development and testing of a precision hoeing system for re-compacted ridge tillage in maize

Ridge tillage (RT) is a conservation practice that provides several benefits such as enhanced root growth and reduced soil erosion. The objectives of this study were to develop an autosteered living mulch seeder and hoeing prototype for RT systems using RTK-GNSS (real-time kinematic global navigation satellite systems) created ridges as a guide. It was also aimed to compare weed control efficacy and crop response of ridge-hoeing compared to conventional hoeing in flat tillage (FT). It was further aimed to investigate the impact of a new RT technology (with ridge re-compaction) on maize root development, yield, soil temperature, and moisture compared to FT.Field experiments were conducted with maize in 2021 and 2022 in a two-factorial split-plot design with tillage (RT and FT) as main treatment and weed control (untreated, herbicide, twice hoeing, hoeing + living mulch) as sub-treatment factors. Weed density, coverage, biomass, crop density, weed control efficacy (WCE) and maize silage yield were assessed. Temperature loggers were installed within RT and FT to take temperature readings at 20 min. Soil moisture and root penetrability were measured every two weeks in each plot using soil samples and a penetrometer.The WCE and yield did not differ significantly between the tillage systems. Twice hoeing resulted in 71–80 % WCE, which was equal to herbicide treatment. Hoeing + living mulch achieved 70–72 % WCE. Different from previous studies with ridge tillage, temperatures in the compacted ridges did not consistently differ from the ridge valleys and flat seedbeds. Root penetration (against 1.4 MPa penetrometer cone index) was 40 % higher in RT than in FT. On average, RT maize produced more (53.6 g m−2) root biomass compared to FT. In summary, re-compacted ridges built along RTK-GNSS lines can allow post-emergent hoeing and living mulch seeding along ridges and also provide good growing conditions for maize.

Rerandomization and covariate adjustment in split-plot designs

Split-plot designs are widely used in agricultural, industrial, social, and biomedical experiments to accommodate hard-to-change factors. Given multiple factors of interest and experimental units that are nested within groups, the design assigns a subset of the factors by a cluster randomization at the group level and assigns the remaining factors by a stratified randomization at the unit level. The randomization mechanism ensures covariate balance on average at both the unit and group levels, allowing for consistent inference of average treatment effects. However, chance covariate imbalance is common in specific allocations and subjects subsequent inference to possibly large variability and conditional bias. Building on the literature on using rerandomization to improve covariate balance and inference efficiency in other design types, we propose two strategies for conducting rerandomization in split-plot designs and establish their guaranteed efficiency gains for inferring average treatment effects by the Horvitz–Thompson and Hajek estimators. We then propose two covariate adjustment methods that further improve inference efficiency when combined with rerandomization. All theoretical guarantees are design-based and robust to model misspecification.

Exploring the Vegetation Characteristics of Karst Landscapes: A Study of Community Forest in Tubokarto Village, Wonogiri, Indonesia

Karst landscapes are characterized by unique relief and drainage patterns, which influence the types of vegetation that can inhabit these environments. Vegetation in karst ecosystems plays a crucial role in groundwater filtration. Plant species diversity within these communities contributes to structural variations across different habitats. This study evaluates the potential of vegetation in community forests in Tubokarto Village, Wonogiri Regency, by analyzing species composition and vegetation. Using a purposive sampling method, we selected areas with polyculture planting patterns and agroforestry, applying a sampling intensity of 2.2% with 20 × 100 m strip plots. The results showed that the species composition at the location consisted of 18 species in 7 families. The stand density for trees is 221 ind ha–1, poles 436 ind ha–1, saplings 1,144 ind ha–1, and seedlings 2,650 ind ha–1. Tectona grandis emerged as the dominant species, with the highest Importance Value Index (IVI) values: 142.79 at the tree level, 212.48 for poles, 197.84 for saplings, and 122.29 for seedlings. Species diversity indices were 1.53 for trees, 0.97 for poles, 1.36 for saplings, and 1.21 for seedlings. The species richness index showed values of 2.79 for trees, 1.49 for poles, 1.21 for saplings, and 1.80 for seedlings, while the species evenness index ranged from 0.43 to 0.76. The vegetation structure of Tubokarto Village spans strata B and C, with tree diameter class distribution resembling that of natural forests. Environmental factors, including climate and soil composition, are likely influencing species growth patterns.

Effect of Tillage and Weed Management on Maize (Zea mays L.) Yield and Nutrient Uptake

The field experiment was carried out during two consecutive kharif seasons of 2018 and 2019 at Agricultural Research Station, Tandur, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Telangana. The study employed a strip-plot design, where tillage methods (conventional and reduced) were assigned to vertical plots and various weed management practices were allotted to horizontal plots, replicated thrice. N, P and K uptake by maize was highest in conventionally tilled plots than in reduced tillage plots with no significant difference between them. The removal of N, P and K by weeds was highest in the weedy check treatment. Hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS recorded higher N, P and K uptake which was on par with Atrazine 50% WP @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 + Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (early PoE) fb HW at 40 DAS and Atrazine 50% WP @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 (PE) fb Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (PoE). Results revealed that there is no significant difference (p<0.05) between tillage practices with respect to the yield of maize. Higher grain yields of maize were obtained with two hand weedings which was on par with Atrazine 50% WP @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 + Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (early PoE) fb HW at 40 DAS and Atrazine 50% WP @ 1.0 kg a.i. ha-1 (PE) fb Tembotrione 42% SC @ 120 g a.i. ha-1 (PoE). The interaction effect of tillage and weed management practices was found to be non-significant. Conventional tillage along with hand weeding twice at 20 and 40 DAS resulted in higher plant dry matter and consequently highest N, P and K nutrients uptake by the plants and lead to higher yield.

Effect of Varying Irrigation Levels on Growth and Yield of Serengeti and Theresa French Bean Cultivars: A Case Study in Huye District, Rwanda

Effective irrigation management is essential for maximizing crop yield and quality while conserving water resources. This study evaluated the impact of varying irrigation levels on the growth and yield of two French bean cultivars, Serengeti and Theresa, conducted in 2024 at the Agricultural Research Center of Rwanda Polytechnic–Huye College. Key objectives included determining crop water requirements, establishing irrigation schedules based on daily soil water balance, and examining the effects of three irrigation regimes (Full irrigation (100% ETc), Deficit irrigation( 50% ETc), and Rainfed as Control on yield parameters across both cultivars. The experiment followed a split-plot design in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Soil moisture levels were monitored using PR2- Moisture Sensors. The results of conducted field experiments revealed that the seasonal irrigation water requirements for full irrigation, deficit irrigation, and rainfed treatments were 111.38 mm, 99.5 mm, and 24.5 mm, respectively. Seasonal evapotranspiration rates were measured at 160.4 mm for full irrigation, 143.9 mm for deficit, and 80.84 mm for rainfed. The fresh pod yield ranged between 5.9 – 11.7 tons ha⁻¹ for Serengeti and 5.3 – 20.3 tons ha⁻¹ for Theressa, while dry matter yields varied from 1.0 – 1.66 tons ha⁻¹ for Serengeti and 0.8 – 2.88 tons ha⁻¹ for Theressa. Plant height ranged from 22 cm to 40.1 cm, and pod lengths for Serengeti and Theressa were between 9.3 – 17.64 cm and 8.8 – 15.8 cm, respectively. The mean number of grains per pod was 7. Yield response factors (ky) for Serengeti and Theressa were 1.029 and 1.20, respectively. The highest crop evapotranspiration productivity (WPET) and water productivity (WP-irrigation) were recorded for Theressa at 127.2 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹ and 135.6 kg ha⁻¹ mm⁻¹, respectively. Monitoring soil moisture balance highlights the economic advantages of efficient irrigation techniques tailored to local conditions.

Comparative Analysis of Tillage Practices on Soil Characteristics in Vertisol for Groundnut-based Cropping System

Tillage practices in groundnut-based Vertisol systems is essential for improving soil health and maximizing agricultural productivity. This study investigates the impact of tillage practices and cropping systems on soil physical and chemical properties in the Vertisol region of Karnataka during the 2022-23 Kharif and Rabi seasons. Conducted at the MARS, UAS, Dharwad, the experiment utilized a strip plot design, comparing minimum tillage with crop residue incorporation (M1) and conventional tillage without residue (M2) across four cropping systems. Findings revealed that minimum tillage significantly enhanced soil properties, demonstrating improved porosity (52.14%), maximum water holding capacity (55.97%) and soil aggregate stability (62.42%) while reducing bulk density (1.27 Mg m⁻³) at the surface layer. Among cropping systems, the groundnut + pigeon pea combination showed superior soil characteristics, with porosity at 50.88%, MWHC at 55.05%, and reduced bulk density of 1.31 Mg m⁻³ at 0-15 cm depth. Additionally, minimum tillage led to higher soil organic carbon (7.65 g kg⁻¹) and available NPK levels (315.8 kg ha⁻¹ N, 44.06 kg ha⁻¹ P, 324.53 kg ha⁻¹ K), particularly in the groundnut + pigeon pea system. These findings emphasize the efficacy of conservation agriculture techniques, reinforcing existing research that highlights how minimum tillage and leguminous cropping systems enhance soil health and foster sustainable farming practices. Such results are pivotal for promoting sustainable agricultural development, as they illustrate that implementing these practices can lead to significant improvements in soil vitality, crucial for boosting crop yields and ensuring ecological stability in Karnataka's Vertisol region.

Efficacy of attractive targeted sugar bait stations against malaria in Western Province Zambia: epidemiological findings from a two-arm cluster randomized phase III trial

BackgroundAttractive targeted sugar bait (ATSB) stations containing bait (to attract) and ingestion toxicant (to kill) sugar-foraging mosquitoes are hypothesized to reduce malaria transmission by shortening the lifespan of Anopheles vectors.MethodsA two-arm cluster-randomized controlled trial (cRCT) was conducted in Western Province Zambia. Seventy clusters of 250–350 households were assigned (1:1) by restricted randomization to an intervention arm (ATSB) or control arm (no ATSB) in the context of standard of care vector control (insecticide-treated nets and/or indoor residual spraying). Two ATSB stations (Westham Sarabi, 0.11% dinotefuran w/w) were maintained on exterior walls of eligible household structures for a 7-month deployment period (December-June) during the high malaria transmission season. The primary outcome was clinical malaria incidence among two consecutive seasonal cohorts of children aged 1–14 years, followed-up monthly from January-June in 2022 and 2023. Secondary outcome was Plasmodium falciparum prevalence among individuals aged over six months. Analysis compared clinical malaria incidence and prevalence between arms among the intention-to-treat population.ResultsATSB coverage, assessed by cross-sectional survey, was 98.3% in March–April 2022 and 89.5% in March–April 2023. 4494 children contributed any follow-up time to the cohort, with 2313 incident malaria cases in the intervention arm (1.28 per child per six-month transmission season), and 2449 in the control arm (1.38 per child-season). The incidence rate ratio between the two arms was 0.91 (95% CI 0.72–1.15, p = 0.42). 2536 individuals participated in cross-sectional surveys, with prevalence of P. falciparum 50.7% in the intervention arm and 53.5% in the control arm. The odds ratio between the two arms was 0.89 (95% CI 0.66–1.18, p = 0.42). Secondary covariable-adjusted and subgroup analyses did not substantially alter the findings. No serious adverse events associated with the intervention were reported.ConclusionsTwo ATSB stations deployed per eligible structure for two consecutive transmission seasons did not result in a statistically significant reduction in clinical malaria incidence among children aged 1–14 years or in P. falciparum prevalence in rural western Zambia. Further studies are needed to assess the efficacy of ATSB stations in different settings and with different deployment strategies.Trial registrationThe trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04800055).

Development of mixed linear models to analyze and describe the impact of malathion on the larval growth of Megaselia scalaris (Diptera: Phoridae) under various feeding media and environmental conditions.

Forensic entomology plays a crucial role in estimating the minimum postmortem interval through the study of insect larvae found at crime scenes. The precision of this estimation relies on various biotic and abiotic elements that simultaneously influence insect growth and development, encompassing factors such as temperature, humidity, photoperiod, diet, and the existence of xenobiotics in decomposing tissues. Despite numerous studies on the influence of these factors, including the impact of xenobiotics, there are currently no robust tools available for making corrections to this estimation considering concurrently all variables. In an attempt to propose an exploratory and descriptive statistical model to analyze the simultaneous effect and interaction of different variables on larval growth, this study aimed to compare the effect of malathion on the growth of Megaselia scalaris (Loew, 1866) (Diptera: Phoridae) raised in malathion-spiked porcine muscle, under controlled and uncontrolled temperature and humidity conditions (environmental conditions). Larvae were also reared using various growth media. A split-plot design that combined crossed and nested factors was employed; 2 linear mixed models were developed to assess the relationships between the variables. The model provides valuable insights into the complex interactions among xenobiotics, growth media, and environmental conditions in the size and development of M. scalaris.

Effect of tillage methods and nitrogen management practices on soil mineral nitrogen and grain protein, and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum)in rice (Oryza sativa)-wheat system

The field experiment was carried out during winter (rabi) season of 2020–21 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the effect of tillage methods and nitrogen management practices on soil mineral nitrogen and grain protein and yield of wheat in rice- wheat system. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design (SPD), where the main plots included 4 different crop establishment methods, and the sub-plots tested 4 nitrogen management strategies that were replicated thrice. The results showed that, residue retention in zero tillage recorded significantly (P<0.05) higher soil mineral nitrogen, protein content in grain (12.6%) and grain yield (4.99 t/ha) over other treatments. Similar results also recorded under different nitrogen management practices, where leaf colour chart (LCC)-guided N application has significantly (P<0.05) higher soil mineral nitrogen, grain protein content (12.9%) and grain yield (5.39 t/ha) over remaining treatments. The LCC-guided N application in residue retained (3 t/ha) ZT practices can be recommended in wheat under rice- wheat system for higher soil mineral nitrogen availability, improving grain protein content and productivity.

Influence of drip irrigation, crop geometry and mulching on morphological and nutritional traits of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)

The experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) seasons of 2019 and 2020 at College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner, Rajasthan to study the effect of crop geometry, mulching and different irrigation levels on the morphological and nutritional traits of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]. The experiment was conducted in a split plot design (SPD) comprised of 4 irrigation levels in the main plot (40%, 60%, 80% and 100% pan evaporation) and 2 different crop geometry (paired row sowing and normal sowing) and 3 types of mulches (no mulch, plastic mulch and straw mulch) were employed in the subplots and sub-subplots, respectively. Results indicated that 100% potential evapotranspiration (PE), drip irrigation (DI) and paired row sowing at 30 cm × 70 cm significantly increased the number of branches/plant, plant height (cm), length of fruit (cm), diameter of fruit (cm) and chlorophyll content of leaves compared to lower irrigation levels and normal sowing. Additionally, straw mulch positively influenced the above-mentioned parameters in the okra fruits as compared to without mulch. Drip irrigation, paired row sowing, and straw mulching also resulted in a significant increase in net returns per hectare. The study demonstrated that combining paired row sowing with straw mulch and irrigating at 100% potential evapotranspiration (PE) yielded the best growth attributes, highest fruit quality, and maximum net returns for okra.

Innovative organic nutrient management and land arrangements improve soil health and productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in an organic farming system

IntroductionSoil health is vital for ecosystems, but excessive use of fertilizers, chemicals, and irrigation harms soil fertility, leading to reduced yields and degradation. Thus, exploring innovative land arrangements and nutrient management for staple crops such as wheat is essential. Organic farming offers a promising solution. This study hypothesized that an appropriate land arrangement, combined with split applications of farmyard manure (FYM) and liquid organic fertilizer, can enhance wheat productivity while also improving soil health. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different sowing methods and organic nutrient management practices on the productivity of wheat and soil health.MethodsThis study aimed to examine the impact of sowing methods and nutrient management practices on soil health and organic wheat productivity during the winter seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at the Organic Farming Unit (Agronomy), Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. The experiment was arranged in a split-plot design, with three land arrangements/sowing methods in the main plot and eight nutrient management approaches in the subplots.ResultsConcerning different land arrangements, the furrow irrigated raised bed sowing (FIRB) method resulted in the maximum wheat yield (4.34 t ha−1) compared with flat row sowing and zero tillage sowing. With respect to nutrient management practices, 75% of the recommended dose of N (RDN) through the FYM was basal + 25% RDN with the 1st irrigation + Jeevamrut application at 500 L ha−1 during sowing, and the 1st irrigation + Panchagavya spraying at 5% during the booting stage resulted in the highest grain yield (4.47 t ha−1). Both the zero tillage and FIRB land arrangements resulted in better soil biological activities and microbial counts than did flat sowing. The results indicate that sowing wheat via the FIRB method, with the recommended nitrogen dose applied through split applications of FYM along with liquid organic manures such as Jeevamrut and Panchagavya, can be an excellent option for organic wheat cultivation. This approach can enhance both yield and soil health.ConclusionSeventy-five percent RDN through FYM as a basal + 25% RDN during the 1st irrigation + Jeevamrut at 500 L ha−1 during sowing and the 1st irrigation + spraying of Panchagavya at 5% during the booting stage effectively increased the growth and yield of organic wheat. With respect to land arrangements, both FIRB and zero tillage resulted in better growth, yield, and soil biological properties. The practical utility of this study is the optimization of split applications of FYM and land arrangements for organic wheat cultivation.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) response under soil moisture and crop water stress based irrigation scheduling at variable nitrogen regimes

The field experiment was conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at research farm of ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to examine the water productivity and crop response under soil moisture and crop water stress based irrigation scheduling at variable nitrogen regimes in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Experiment was conducted in a split-plot design (SPD) design comprised of 3 irrigation regimes in main plots and 5 graded nitrogen (N) levels in sub-plots, replicated thrice. Irrigation scheduling regimes included I1 (50% available soil moisture depletion-ASMD); I2 (CWSI i.e. crop water stress index based); and I3 (Conventional crop growth stage based). The 5 graded N levels included 0 (N0); 50 (N1); 100 (N2); 150 (N3); and 200 (N4) kg N/ha. Results showed that 50% DASM based irrigation significantly increased grain yield (11.28 and 6.30%), straw yield (5.33 and 5.70%), dry matter accumulation (5.65 and 5.44%), water productivity (11.37 and 6.19%), root length (15.89 and 44.48%), root weight (11.63 and 12.77%) and grain N uptake (20.88 and 14.52%) compared to conventional crop stage based irrigation during 2021–22 and 2022–23, respectively. Among the graded N application, maximum grain yield (4.78 and 4.82 t/ha) and crop water productivity (13.91 and 15.09 kg/ha-mm) were recorded with treatment N4 (200 kg N/ha), but remained statistically at par with N3 (150 kg N/ha) due to the marginal increment beyond 150 kg N/ha. Overall, soil moisture based irrigation at 50% MAD with 150 kg/ha N application proved to be the most effective and economical approach to enhance dry-matter accumulation, yield and water productivity with saving from harmful environmental effects ascending from excessive nitrogen use.

Disease-driven yield losses in wheat (Triticum aestivum) crop under different agroclimatic locations of Punjab

The experiments were conducted during winter (rabi) seasons of 2021–22 and 2022–23 at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab to examine the yield losses due to diseases in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) crop under different agroclimatic locations of Punjab. The experiment was conducted in split-plot design (SPD) having three dates of sowing (14th–15th October, 8th–9th November and 3rd–4th December) in main plots and wheat varieties, viz. PBW 725, HD 2967 and HD 3086 with two microclimate modification levels M1 (recommended irrigation) and M2 (additional water sprays) in sub plots, replicated four times. The yellow rust severity was maximum at Ludhiana (56.14%, 57.17%) and Gurdaspur (56.75%, 58.42%) in HD 2967 under early sown conditions in M2 treatment during 2021–22 and 2022–33, respectively. The Karnal bunt incidence was comparatively higher at Ludhiana (18.5% and 13.4%) and Gurdaspur (21.4% and 16.7%) in variety PBW 725 under normal sowing condition in M2 than other treatments during both the years of study, respectively. Grain yield during 2021–22 and 2022–23 was more in early sowing at Ludhiana (43.3 q/ha, 48.1 q/ha) and Gurdaspur (44.5 q/ha, 50.8 q/ha) than other dates of sowing. In variety × microclimate modification levels treatments, grain yield was maximum at Ludhiana (43.1 q/ha, 47.2 q/ha) and Gurdaspur (44.0 q/ha, 50.2 q/ha) in variety PBW 725 under M1 than other treatments during both the years of study. Early date of sowing recorded more yield losses followed by late and normal sowing and losses were more at Gurdaspur as compared to Ludhiana. Average yield losses during 2022–23 were higher i.e. 5.6% and 7.1% as compared to 1.6% and 2.3% during 2021–22 at Ludhiana and Gurdaspur, respectively.

Enhancing productivity and profitability of spring maize (Zea mays) in Uttarakhand's Tarai region through effective weed management practices and irrigation scheduling

A field experiment was conducted during the spring seasons of 2022 and 2023 at Norman E Borlaug Crop Research Centre, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand to enhance maize yield and profitability. The experiment was conducted a split-plot design (SPD) with two irrigation scheduling treatments, viz. irrigation applied at an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 (I1); and 1.2 (I2) in main plot and 8 weed management treatments, viz. W1, atrazine 1000 g/ha; W2, tembotrione 120 g/ha; W3, topramezone 25.2 g/ha; W4, atrazine 1000 g/ ha followed by hand-weeding at 35 DAS (days after sowing); W5, atrazine 1000 g/ha followed by tembotrione 120 g/ha; W6, atrazine 1000 g/ha followed by topramezone 25.2 g/ha; W7, weed-free; and W8, weedy check in sub-plots. Irrigation applied at IW/CPE ratio of 1.2 significantly improved the maize productivity and profitability, yielding higher net returns (₹66,206.9/ha) and grain yield (6.1 t/ha). Among the herbicidal treatments, atrazine 1000 g/ha followed by topramezone 25.2 g/ha recorded the highest weed control efficiency (80%) and maize grain yield (6.3 t/ ha). The percentage net monetary return was in the following sequence: W6 (100%) > W7 (92.4%) > W5 (91.8%) > W4 (89.6%) > W3 (81.5%) > W2 (78.2%) > W1 (67.6%) > W8 (46.4%). The percentage gain in grain yield was recorded in the following sequence: W7 (100%) > W6 (91.4%) > W5 (87.4%) > W4 (86.4%) > W3 (84.1%) > W2 (81.1%) > W1 (71.5%) > W8 (52.5%). In conclusion, optimizing irrigation to IW/CPE ratio of 1.2 and employing weed management practice atrazine (1000 g/ha) followed by topramezone (25.2 g/ha) application, can significantly enhance spring maize yield, weed control efficiency and economic returns in Uttarakhand's Tarai region.

Studies on Effect of Planting Dates on Seed Quality of Onion (Allium cepa L.) in North Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, India

Aim: To study the effect of planting dates on seed quality of onion varieties. Study Design: Split plot design and FCRD. Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Station, Hagari, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur (Karnataka) during Rabi 2023-24. Methodology: Two varieties as main plot with five planting dates as sub plots. Results: The results revealed that significantly highest seed germination (89.3 %), shoot length (8.97 cm), root length (7.02 cm) and seedling vigour index I and II (1428 and 1294, respectively) in D1 (1st fortnight of November). While, lowest seed germination (84.7 %), shoot length (7.65 cm), root length (6.04 cm), and seedling vigour index I and II (1250 and 1047, respectively) in D5 (1st fortnight of January). Among the varieties, Bhima super (V2) registered significantly highest seed germination (87.8 cm), shoot length (8.49 cm), root length (6.18 cm), and seedling vigour index I and II (1291 and 1116, respectively). Whereas, lowest seed germination (86.5 cm), shoot length (8.07 cm), root length (5.89 cm), and seedling vigour index I and II (1209 and 978, respectively) recorded in Bellary red (V1). Conclusion: The results of present investigation revealed that, bulbs planted during 1st fortnight of November and Bhima super were found to be superior for high quality seed production of onion.

Growth and Economic Return of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) under Different Plant Spacing and Fertility Conditions

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a native of the Andes that has sparked a worldwide interest due to its unique nutritional value. Quinoa seed have an orthodox magnificent nutritional food quality and were also called “the mother grain”. To achieve optimal crop yield, farmers must meticulously manage various factors, ensuring a balanced approach to fertility levels, irrigation and pest control. It is crucial for farmers to find a delicate balance in achieving specific nutritional and yield targets. The current investigation was conducted in kharif 2022, with genotype “EC507742” at Research and Extension Centre, Gaja, College of Forestry, Ranichauri, Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India. The experiment comprised of two factors viz., geometry (S): S1- 20 x10 cm, S2- 30 x 10 cm and S3- 40 x 10 cm in main plot and fertility levels (F): F1- Control, F2- 75% NPKS, F3- 100% NPKS and F4- 125% NPKS in sub plot with total of 12 treatment combinations that were evaluated in split plot design with three replications. The data was analysed using OPSTAT with figures from SAS (proc glm). Among the geometries, S2 (30 x 10 cm) excelled in field conditions and economics relative to others. Among different fertility levels, F3 (100% NPKS) demonstrated the greatest growth, yield characteristics, yield, and higher returns for quinoa compared to other fertility levels. The interactions between geometry and fertility levels were also found significant for growth, yield attributes and yield with higher in S2F3. Thus, it can be concluded that using the recommended fertilizer (100% NPKS) with the ideal spacing of 30 x 10 cm improves growth, yield and profitability of Quinoa.

Impact of Soil Amendments and Improved Alkaline Water on the Physico-chemical Characteristics of the Soil, the Distribution of Salt in the Soil, the Growth, and the Yield of Hybrid Cotton Grown in Sodic Soil with Drip Irrigation

The effects of ameliorated alkali water and soil amendments on the soil properties, growth, and yield of hybrid cotton in sodic soil under drip irrigation were investigated in this field experiment at Anbil Dharma lingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Trichy, using cotton (RCH-20) as a test crop. The main-plot treatments included drip irrigation with gypsum treatment water and drip irrigation with spent wash treatment water; the sub-plot treatments included soil application of gypsum @ 50% GR (5.2 t ha-1) and a one-time soil application of distillery spent wash at 5 lakh liters ha-1. The treatment without amendments under main plot and sub-plots was used as a control. The experiment was designed in a strip-plot design with four replications. The application of additives through irrigation water or soil dramatically lowered the post-harvest soil's pH. Plots applied with wasted wash had the greatest pH reduction (M1S1) 7.81, followed by those applied with gypsum (M2S2) 7.90 and control (M3S3) 8.15. Because there was more soluble salt present in the spent wash treated plots, there was a little rise in EC. Drip irrigation with distillery spent wash (DSW) treated water and drip irrigation with gypsum treated water, respectively, resulted in ESP decreases of (M2S2) 0.97 and (M1S1) 0.61 over control. Similarly, ESP decreased by 2.63 and 1.31 when gypsum and DSW were applied to the soil, respectively, compared to the control. The organic carbon values ranged from (M3S3) 0.47 to (M2S2) 0.92 percent. In general, an increase in organic carbon content was observed in all the treatments that received amendments (Gypsum& DSW) compared to control. Salt distribution pattern conducted in treatment of distillery spent wash @ 5.0 lakh liters ha-1 significantly increased vertical depth of soil pH ranges (7.56,7.68,7.80,8.30) and decreased EC ranges (1.05,1.02,1.00,0.95) followed by horizontal line soil pH ranges (7.54,7.51,7.49,7.50) and EC ranges (1.04,1.02,1.00,1.02) at 120 DAS after application. In the experimental field recorded vertical depth of soil increased pH and decreased electrical conductivity compared to horizontal distances of soil pH and EC. The physico- chemical properties reduced in treatment one time application of DSW @ 5 lakh liters ha-1 recorded the highest physico -chemical properties followed by the treatment receiving irrigation with gypsum bed treated alkali water and lowest was recorded in the untreated alkali water irrigated through drip system in non- amended soil.

Aerobic Stability of High-Moisture Corn Ensiled with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum During Prolonged Air Exposure

The evaluation of the aerobic stability of silages primarily involves monitoring temperature, while changes in composition are often neglected. In the present study, the effect of aeration on high-moisture corn ensiled with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was investigated and compared with that of the control without inoculant. The corn used in this study was grown in five plots in a split-plot experimental design, and each plot represented the repetition of silage preparation, both with and without inoculant. In the silages, the temperature changes and the content of acids and alcohols were monitored during the 6 days of aeration, while the content of the main nutrients was compared before and after 6 days of aeration. The temperature difference between the silages and the environment was below 3 °C during the entire aeration period, regardless of the ensiling method. The content of lactic acid was higher in L. plantarum silages, while the contents of acetic and propionic acid, methanol and ethanol were higher in the control (p < 0.001). The content of all compounds changed during the aeration period (p < 0.05), regardless of the ensiling method and the stable silage temperature. Aeration affected the content of soluble crude protein and starch (p < 0.05), suggesting starch degradation in high-moisture corn during aeration. Therefore, in addition to monitoring silage temperature, monitoring lactic and acetic acid and the main nutrients should be considered, as the nutritional value of high-moisture corn could decrease during aeration.