Taller Plants Research Articles

Response of Three Bread Wheat Varieties to Different Nitrogen Fertilizer Ratein Suluq

A field experiment was carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Faculty of Agriculture (Suluq), Benghazy University in 2023/ 2024 winter season to study four nitrogen fertilizer levels (50, 100, 150 and 200 kg/ ha) on growth and yield of three bread wheat varieties, i.e. Alfi, Kasy and Behooth 210. Split-plot design in three replicated was used, where nitrogen levels was randomly distributed on whole plot and varieties were allocated in sub-plot. Increasing nitrogen levels from 50 to 200 kg/ ha significantly and gradually increased all studied traits, except number of sterile plants. Behooth 210 variety had the tallest plants and spikes (111.25 and 14.58 cm), respectively, highest number of grains/ spike (79.50) and heaviest 100-grain weight (5.10 g). However, Alfi variety the highest number of sterile plants (42.41), highest grain yield and harvest index (4.90 ton/ ha and 21.87 %), respectively. Alfi variety fertilized with 200 kg N/ ha produced the highest grain yield (5.70 t/ ha), while Behooth variety fertilized with (200 kg N/ ha) produced the highest number of grains/ spike (84.93), heaviest 100-grain weight (5.87 g) and highest biological yield (26.37 t/ ha). Keywords: Agricultural Research Station, wheat, nitrogen levels, grain yield, harvest index, Alfi, Kasy, Behooth.

Adaptabilidade e estabilidade de genótipos de sorgo biomassa pelo método GGE Biplot

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance and select biomass sorghum genotypes for growing in different regions of Brazil based on adaptability and stability analysis using the GGE biplot method. The 25 genotypes evaluated were from trials of value for cultivation and use (VCU) of biomass sorghum of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa Maize and Sorghum) Breeding Program, conducted in eight locations across Brazil (Sobral, CE; Jaguariúna and Narandiba, SP; Nova Porteirinha and Sete Lagoas, MG; Planaltina, DF; Vilhena, RO; and Terra Rica, PR) during the 2021-2022 crop season. A randomized block experimental design with three replications was used. The following traits of were subjected to joint analysis of variance: plant height, flowering, and fresh and dry matter yields. The confirmation of genotype-by-environment interaction (G×E) was followed by adaptability and stability analysis using the GGE biplot method for all traits. The adjusted means were used to obtain the mean clustering using the Scott-Knott test (p < 0.05). Biomass sorghum genotypes showed a longer growth cycle, taller plants, and higher biomass yield than forage sorghum genotypes. The experimental sorghum hybrids 202129B014 and 202129B016 and the commercial hybrid BRS 716 can be recommended for fresh and dry matter production in all tested environments due to their high adaptability and stability.

Effect of conjoint application of coated urea and organic manure on growth, productivity, profitability and nutrient acquisition of rice (Oryza sativa)

A 2 years field experiment was carried out at experimental farm of BCKV, Nadia, West Bengal during kharif season of 2019-20 and 2020-21 to study the effect of combined application of coated urea and organic manure on performance of rice. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replication and treatment comprised of five treatment combination such as T1- Control plot (without N); T2- 100% RDN through neem coated urea (NCU); T3- 75% RDN through NCU + 25% RDN through FYM (farm yard manure); T4- 100% RDN through polymer sulphur coated urea (PSCU); T5- 75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM. The results showed that 75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM have resulted in maximum growth attributes, yield components and yield of rice. The results showed that 75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM have resulted in maximum growth attributes viz. taller plants (110.80 cm), maximum number of effective tillers per square meter (415.90/m2), highest DMA (740.02 g/m2), LAI (4.47) and CGR (6.56 g/m2/day), highest yield components like panicle length (23.5 cm), panicle weight (9.95 g), number of filled grains per panicle (113), and test weight (21.30 g) and maximum grain yield (4.79 t/ha) and straw yield (5.53 t/ha). Similarly significant maximum amount of total nutrient uptake by crop (99.7, 40.1 and 208 kg/ha NPK), protein yield (418 kg/ha), gross returns (71.8 x 103 Rs/ha), net return (52 x 103 Rs/ha) and B: C ratio (2.73) was noticed under T5 treatment as compared to the other treatments. Therefore, it is recommended to adopt a holistic nutrient management approach T5 (75% RDN through PSCU+25% RDN through FYM) in rice cultivation contribute to optimizing growth, yield, nutrient uptake and quality ultimately improving agricultural productivity, profitability and sustainability.

Row Configuration and Soil Amendment Affect Performance of Popcorn (Zea mays L. var. Everta) in Semi-Arid South Africa

Appropriate plant spacing is vital to maximizing marginal field and expediting equitable distribution of applied plant nutrients for improved popcorn yield. Two field experiments were carried out during the summer seasons of 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 at the North-West University (NWU) research farm, Mafikeng campus. The study investigated the response of popcorn to different rates of compost and NPK 20-7-3 fertilizer and plant spacing in the semi-arid region of South Africa. The trial consisted of twenty treatments laid out as a split-plot in a randomized complete block design (r=3). The main plot and subplot effects were amendment rates (4 and 8 t/ha compost, 90 and 180 kg N/ha, while the unamended field served as the control); and four intra-row spacing (cm): 15×15 (SP1), 20×20 (SP2), 25×25 (SP3), and 30×30 (SP4). Data were collected on growth and yield components. Results showed that popcorn had the highest number of leaves (12.75) in plots fertilized with 8 t/ha compost under SP4, while the tallest plant (205.64 cm) was recorded in plots intra-spaced at SP2 and fertilized with 8 t/ha compost. The leaf area index was highest (5.1) in plots amended with 90 kg N/ha under SP4. The chlorophyll content of popcorn in plots supplied with 90 kg N/ha under SP3 was significantly higher, with 56.1% more than the leaf chlorophyll from unfertilized plots under SP1. Biomass (178.33 g/plant) and ear number (2.08) were highest in plots treated with 180 kg N/ha under SP3. The kernel yield of 3.28 t/ha and harvest index of 0.32 were lowest in unfertilized plots under SP1. Popcorn yield improved in plots amended with 8 t/ha compost at SP2 plant spacing, similar to the observations in plant configured at SP2 and fertilized with 90 kg N/ha mineral fertilizer. Nevertheless, the provision of balanced nutrients and the eco-friendliness of applying organic fertilizer favoured the preference for the use of compost for promoting increased popcorn production.

Influence of sowing dates and weeding regimes on growth attributes and maize dry fodder yield

Effective agricultural practices are pivotal for ensuring optimal crop yields and sustainable farming. Two critical factors that significantly influence crop productivity are the date of planting and the weeding regime. An experiment was carried out to investigate how the timing of planting and the frequency of weeding impact the growth characteristics and fodder yield of maize. The study involved three planting dates viz. 15 November (D1), 15 December (D2) and 14 January (D3) along with five different weeding regimes viz. no weeding (W0), two hand weedings at 15 and 30 days after sowing (DAS) (W1), pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS (W2), post-emergence herbicide (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS (W3), and pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + post-emergence (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) herbicide (W4). The growth characteristics and the amount of dry fodder produced were notably affected by the timing of planting, the method of weeding and how these factors interacted. At harvest, the tallest plant (138.48 cm) and total dry matter production plant-1 (37.32 g) were recorded in the plants sown on 15 November with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS. The maximum number of leaves plant-1 (13.33) and leaf chlorophyll content (116.60) were obtained from15 November with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + post-emergence (pyrazosulfuran-ethyl) herbicide and 14 January with the application of pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 DAS. The highest dry fodder yield (4.14 t ha-1) was achieved with maize planted on 15 November and treated with pre-emergence herbicide (pendimethalin) + one hand weeding at 30 days after sowing. Based on the study, it can be concluded that planting on November 15 using a pre-emergence + one hand weeding 30 days after sowing may result in the tallest plants, maximum total dry matter production and the maximum dry fodder yield of maize.

The Effect of Weed Control at Different Periods on Antioxidant Content of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.)

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a significant member of the Fabaceae family, known for its high protein content and rich phenolic compounds essential for human nutrition. These phenolic compounds, which belong to the group of secondary metabolites, serve as important dietary components. Secondary metabolites, act as plant defence mechanisms and can fluctuate under stress conditions. Weeds negatively impact the growth of cultivated plants by competing for nutrients and creating a stressful environment. This study evaluated the effects of weeds on the yield and quality parameters of faba bean. Conducted in Sakarya, the research aimed to determine how weed control frequency affects the yield and some secondary metabolites of faba bean. The experiment used a randomized block design with four replications and included four faba bean genotypes: two registered varieties (Eresen-87 and Salkım) and two local populations (Bilecik and Sakarya). Weed control treatments; comprised weedy control, hoeing every 15 days, and hoeing every 30 days. Measured parameters included plant height (cm), number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, 1000 seed weight (g), dry seed yield (g), and DPPH radical scavenging activity (%). Data were analyzed using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test with SPSS, revealing statistically significant differences (p<0.05) in all measured parameters. The tallest plants were found in the Salkım×Control plot, while the shortest were in Sakarya×15. The highest number of pods occurred in Sakarya×30, and the lowest in Eresen-87×15. The highest number of seeds per pod was recorded in Bilecik×15, while the lowest was in all treatments of the Salkım variety and the Eresen-87×15 plot. The highest dry seed yield came from Bilecik×15, with the lowest from Eresen-87×30. DPPH activity peaked in Bilecik×Control, indicating significant differences in yield and nutritional content among faba bean genotypes. These findings indicate that different genotypes excel in various agricultural and nutritional characteristics, demonstrating that these differences can play an important role in shaping future production strategies.

Assessment of biochar quality and agronomic efficiency produced from rice-husk and saw-dust at different temperature regimes

Declining soil fertility and the limited use of sustainable soil organic amendments has resulted in reduced crop productivity in Nepal. This study assessed biochar produced from rice husk and sawdust at three different pyrolysis temperatures (200°C, 400°C, and 600°C), characterized their properties and applied them as soil amendments to test their agronomic effect on kidney bean production. The highest biochar yields were achieved at lower pyrolysis temperatures (200°C) for both rice husk (40%) and sawdust (38.4%). Ash content was significantly higher in rice husk (33.6%) compared to sawdust biochar (5.8%) across all temperatures. Sawdust biochar had higher volatile matter (91%) than in rice husk biochar (61.5%). The fixed carbon content was greater at 200°C and 400°C for both rice husk and sawdust biochar. FT-IR result showed significant loss of aromatic groups with increasing temperature. Biochar from all three temperatures was then used in a pot experiment to grow kidney beans and assess their agronomic effects. Seven treatments were used: control (CK), rice husk biochar at 200°C (RH200), 400°C (RH400), and 600°C (RH600), sawdust at 200°C (SD200), 400°C (SD400), and 600°C (SD600) following a completely randomized design with 3 replications per treatment. Cattle manure was applied uniformly (25 t ha-1) across all treatments, including the control. Over 50 days, SD400 resulted in the tallest plants, SD600 produced the thickest stem and RH600 had the highest number of leaves. Biochar applications showed significantly higher fruit weight and counts, which was on average 24 % higher than the control, with no significant differences between rice husk and saw dust biochar at three different temperatures. The study suggests that high quality biochar can be produced from both rice husk and saw dust and its application boost legume yields, which is crucial for enhancing country’s nutritional and food security.

Thrips species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) and their abundance on avocado (Persea americana Mill.) in Tetela del Volcán, Morelos, Mexi-co

Objective: To determine the thrips population behavior found in two avocado orchards and their distribution over time. Design/Methodology/Approach: Twenty trees were sampled from each orchard. Four 1.5-2 m tall inflorescences or plant sprouts (covering all four cardinal points) were taken randomly from each tree. Insects collected in the field were quantified and characterized in the laboratory. Thrips were identified based on their morphological characteristics. Analysis of variance and comparison of means were carried out. Various simulations were also performed to determine the number of predatory thrips that should be released to control the pest population. Results: Two phytophagous thrips species (Frankliniella difficilis and Scirtothrips perseae) and two predatory thrips species (Frankliniella difficilis and Leptothrips sp.) were identified in Orchard 1. In Orchard 2, only phytophagous thrips (Frankliniella difficilis and Scirtothrips perseae) were identified. Releasing 525 predatory thrips would control the initial pest population in the study orchards. Study Limitations/Implications: Further research should be carried out regarding the use of morphological identification, which by itself may result in an underestimation of the specific diversity of thrips. Findings/Conclusions: Only phytophagous thrips species were initially identified in this study, while predatory thrips species were subsequently observed. The simulation indicated that the number of predators was insufficient to control the pest population

Identification of Environmental Factors Influencing the Population of Endangered Epilobium hirsutum L. in Korea.

Epilobium hirsutum has been identified as a Class II endangered species in Korea. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop habitat conservation and improvement strategies for the protection of E. hirsutum. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the environmental characteristics of E. hirsutum habitats and identify key environmental factors influencing the population size. To this end, we conducted field surveys and performed a spatial data analysis to collect data on 38 environmental characteristics associated with the population size of E. hirsutum. We performed factor and path analyses to identify the environmental factors influencing the population size and the correlations between the population size and environmental factors. The common factors identified in both analyses were the average temperature in March, available P, soil pH, and soil humidity. Therefore, to manage E. hirsutum habitats or create alternative habitats, areas with a low air temperature and high soil moisture must be selected. It is necessary to remove tall plants and amend soils with alkaline fertilizers containing P. Additionally, it may be effective to implement a management strategy that induces vegetative propagation and seed germination by replacing agricultural waterways made of concrete with those made of rock and soil.

ПОПУЛЯЦИОННЫЕ И РЕСУРСНЫЕ ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКИ HIPPOPHAE RHAMNOIDES L. В ЗАРАФШАНСКОМ НАЦИОНАЛЬНОМ ПРИРОДНОМ ПАРКЕ (РЕСПУБЛИКА УЗБЕКИСТАН)

The article presents the results of the assessment of the current state of populations, morphological, biochem- ical and form diversity of Hippophae rhamnoides L. in the territory of the Zarafshan National Nature Park (Re- public of Uzbekistan). On the territory of 3.5 hectares, 10 sample plots of 15 m² each were laid out. The age and sex population structure, number and density of partial shoots in clones, degree and form of anthropogenic impact. The forms were identified based on 17 qualitative and quantitative morphological characteristics of vegetative (plant height (m), shape, density and type of crown, angle of departure of main skeletal branches, thorniness, length of thorns (cm), leaf color) and reproductive (degree of fruiting, number of fruits in the node (pcs.), length of the peduncle (mm), color, shape, length and width (mm), nature of separation, weight of 100 fruits (g)) of or- gans; organoleptic (taste) and biochemical (antioxidant activity) characteristics of fruits. It was established against the background of increasing anthropogenic impact, a decrease in the number and density of individuals in the population, incomplete age spectra with the absence of pregenerative (seedlings, juvenile, immature), generative (young and old generative) and senile fractions, a shift in the sexual structure towards the predominance of male individuals. A significant decrease in the diversity of H. rhamnoides forms is shown by a combination of the con- sidered qualitative and quantitative morphological features of vegetative and reproductive organs, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity. The following forms are distinguished: tall (above 4 m) plants and medium- sized (2.7–3.5 m); with a crown from spreading to oval and conical; thornless to very thorny; fruit color from yel- low to red, shape - oval and cylindrical; taste from sour to sour-sweet and sour-sweet with bitterness; small-fruited and relatively large-fruited (weight 100 plov 12.9–13.7 g). Forms with relatively high antioxidant activity were identified, reducing the oxidation rate of the model substrate ethylbenzene by 2–4 times.

Rhizobacterial Isolates from the Native Plant Ceanothus velutinus Promote Growth in Two Genotypes of Tall Fescue

Global warming-induced climate change haunts the world, posing a critical threat to plant health and crop production. Overusing chemical fertilizers and pesticides poses a significant threat to soil health. Ceanothus velutinus (snowbrush) is a drought-tolerant, actinorhizal native plant found in the Intermountain West region of the US that harbors many plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). In this study, we evaluated the effects of PGPR CK-06, CK-22, CK-44, and CK-50 from C. velutinus on the growth and development of two tall fescue genotypes: (i) a lawn-type tall fescue blend and (ii) an endophyte-free forage-type tall fescue known as Armory. Tall fescue plants were grown in field soil and sand mix in pots and treated twice with 5 mL of bacterial inoculum. Two isolates, CK-06 and CK-22, significantly increased tiller numbers (p < 0.05) in the lawn-type tall fescue blend, and all isolates showed a significant increase in fresh and dry weight compared to the control. Isolate CK-22 significantly increased the tiller number and fresh and dry weight of the forage-type tall fescue Armory compared to the control. Isolates CK-44 and CK-50 tested positive for sulfur-oxidizing properties, and CK-44 was able to restore the sulfur content in sulfur-deficient soil compared to the control.

Unraveling Genetic Variation and Inheritance Patterns in Newly Developed Maize Hybrids for Improving Late Wilt Disease Resistance and Agronomic Performance Under Artificial Inoculation Conditions.

Late wilt disease caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthiopsis maydis represents a major threat to maize cultivation in the Mediterranean region. Developing resistant hybrids and high-yielding offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable solution to mitigate yield losses. Therefore, this study evaluated genetic variation, combining abilities, and inheritance patterns in newly developed twenty-seven maize hybrids for grain yield and resistance to late wilt disease under artificial inoculation across two growing seasons. The results indicated highly significant variations among assessed hybrids for all measured traits. Combining ability analysis identified IL-306, IL-304, and IL-303 as excellent combiners for grain yield and late wilt resistance, positioning them as superior candidates for hybrid development. Additionally, IL-302 was identified as a strong general combiner for earliness, and IL-307 and IL-309 demonstrated potential for producing short-statured hybrids critical for improving lodging tolerance and maximizing yield. Specific combining ability effects indicated promising earliness, yield, and disease-resistance hybrids, including IL-303×T2 and IL-306×T1. GGE biplots presented optimal line×tester combinations, offering strategic guidance for hybrid development. The principal component analysis demonstrated strong associations between grain yield, late wilt resistance, and key agronomic traits, such as ear length and kernel number. The observed robust positive association between grain yield, late wilt resistance, and yield attributes suggests selection potential for improving maize productivity. Moreover, the genotypic correlations revealed that earlier silking, taller plants, and higher kernel counts were strongly linked to enhanced yield potential. Genetic parameter estimates indicated a predominance of non-additive genetic effects for most traits, with moderate to high broad-sense heritability suggesting substantial genetic contributions to phenotypic variance. This research provides valuable insights to support the development of disease-resistant and high-yielding maize hybrids addressing critical food security challenges.

High Yielding Pest and Disease Tolerance Variety (DHLM-14-1) in Little Millet (Panicum sumetrense. L) Developed through Recombinant Breeding Technology

The little millet variety DHLM-14-1 developed at the Agricultural Research Station (ARS) Hanumanamatti under the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. With a maturation period of 85-90 days, this variety features an erect, tall plant stature ranging from 112 to 130 cm and produces bold, oval-shaped gray grains. DHLM-14-1 stands out for its notable tolerance to shoot fly, exhibiting only a 13.89% incidence compared to 19.15% in the national check JK-8. Its impressive yield performance is evident, yielding 18.42%, 30.58%, and 3.14% more than the national checks OLM-203, JK-8, and KOPLM-53, respectively, making it a beneficial option for millet producers looking for resilient, high-yielding crops. Across trials conducted from 2011 to 2014, DHLM-14-1 showcased exceptional agronomic performance, achieving a mean seed yield of 42.41q/ha, significantly outperforming local check TNAU-63 and national check OLM-203 by 26.63% and 23.75%, respectively. Its consistent yield superiority, with an average of 15.89 q/ha over three years, illustrates the cultivar's adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions, surpassing OLM-203 and JK-8 by 18.42% and 30.58%. Recognized during the 29th Annual Group Meeting of the ICAR All India Coordinated Research Project on small millets, DHLM-14-1 has shown strong disease resistance against grain smut, brown spot, and sheath blight, with disease incidences similar to OLM-203 and significantly lower than JK-8. Additionally, its effective resistance to shoot fly underscores its potential to reduce pest damage, reinforcing DHLM-14-1's value as a high-yielding, resilient cultivar that not only enhances sustainable millet production but also supports food security and improves farmer livelihoods across India.

AAC Planet field pea

AAC Planet is a semi-leafless and powdery mildew (caused by Erysiphe pisi Syd.) resistant field pea ( Pisum sativum L.) variety developed at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lacombe Research and Development Centre, Lacombe, Alberta, Canada. It has high yielding potential, late maturity, tall plant height with good lodging resistance, medium seed size, round seed shape, and low seed coat breakage. It has maturity of 100 days, and thousand-seed weight of 221 g with seed protein content of 24.6%. AAC Planet has a lodging score of 3.2 on the scale of 1–9. It is moderately susceptible to mycosphaerella blight (caused by Mycosphaerella pinodes) and fusarium root rot (caused by Fusarium avenaceum and F. solani).

Efficacy of Pyroxasulfone against Weeds and their Impact on Yield and Economic Analysis of Wheat

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season (November, 2021–April, 2022) at AICRP on Wheat, College of Agriculture, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India to evaluate the efficacy of Pyroxasulfone in wheat cultivation to enhance crop productivity and profitability. The study assessed eight weed management treatments, including herbicide applications (pendimethalin at 1000 g ha-1; pyroxasulfone at 127.5 g ha-1; pendimethalin+pyroxasulfone at 1250+127.5 g ha-1; metribuzin at 300 g ha-1; pendimethalin+metribuzin at 1250+280 g ha-1; pyroxasulfone+metribuzin at 127.5+280 g ha-1 as pre-emergence), hand weeding once at 25 DAS and weedy check, in a randomized block design with three replications. The experimental field was dominated by Phalaris minor (17.82%) among monocot weeds, while Medicago denticulata (28.97%), Cichorium intybus (26.19%), Chenopodium album (16.10%), and Anagallis arvensis (10.92%) among the dicot weeds throughout the crop growing period. Results revealed a substantial decrease in weed density and dry weight across all treatments, with the combination of pyroxasulfone+metribuzin at 127.5+280 g ha-1 showing superior efficacy. Weed control efficiency was highest with hand weeding, followed by herbicide treatments. Additionally, treatments significantly influenced wheat growth parameters and yield attributes, with the application of pyroxasulfone+metribuzin at 127.5+280 g ha-1 resulting in the tallest plants and highest number of tillers square-1 meter. Grain yield was also found significantly higher in plots treated with pyroxasulfone+metribuzin at 127.5+280 g ha-1. The economic analysis demonstrated that pyroxasulfone+metribuzin at 127.5+280 g ha-1 yielded the highest net monetary returns, indicating its economic viability.

Sowing Environments and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) Cultivars under Changing Climate Conditions of North Western Himalayan Region

Sowing dates, as one of the primary agronomic practices have significant influence over yield of maize especially during the times of climate change. Therefore, the present field investigation was conducted during the Kharif cropping seasons of 2013 and 2014 to evaluate different sowing dates for their influence over maize (Zea mays L.) yield. The field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design with factorial arrangement consisting of four dates of sowing and three maize cultivars. The study results revealed that sowing of crop by 10th June can have taller plants (261.5 and 265.2 cm for 2013 and 2014, respectively), significantly better yield contributing characters of maize such as number of cobs per plant (1.1 and 1.1 for 2013 and 2014, respectively), number of grains per cob (258.7 and 268.3 for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and test weight (268.5 and 271.6 grams for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Similarly, the significantly higher maize grain (57.3 and 60.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (108.8 and 109.2 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) was recorded with sowing of maize crop by 10th June. Among the maize cultivars, HQPM-1 resulted in substantially higher maize grain (53.9 and 56.5 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively) and stover yield (102.9 and 104.1 quintal/hectare for 2013 and 2014, respectively). Based on the present field investigation, it can be concluded that sowing of maize by 10th June and maize cultivar HQPM-1 can be recommended for better yield levels under the given conditions of North-western Himalayas.

RESPONSE OF LIQUID MANURES AS ALTERNATIVE NUTRIENT ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF TOMATO

An experiment was conducted on response of Liquid Manures as alternate nutrient on growth and yield of tomato at the Horticulture Farm, Department of Horticulture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from November 2023 to March 2024. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The treatments were used in the study were T1; Control, T2; Vermi Tea, T3; SAU-MLM, T4; SAU-NLM, T5; SAU-PLM and T6; RFD (Recommended Fertilizer Dose). In this study, the treatments showed significant variation on growth and yield of tomato production. The tallest plant (109.63cm), highest number of leaves per plant (25.0), maximum fruit weight (127.2g), maximum fruit weight per plant (3.48kg), maximum yield per plot (20.8kg) and maximum yield per hector (56.5t/h) were recorded with treatment T6 (RFD) and it was statistically identical with treatment T5 (SAU-PLM). Whereas the minimum plant height (92.03 cm) and number of leaves per plant (17.0), lowest fruit weight (62.8g), lowest fruit weight per plant (1.53kg), lowest yield per plot (9.1kg) and lowest yield (22.9t/h) were recorded in T1 (Control). Furthermore, treatment 5 (SAU-PLM) produced highest brix (5.7), that is highest sweetness tomato were produced with T5 treatment. That’s why it can be said that different liquid manure has good impact on growth and yield of tomato with environment friendly impact.

GROWING OF BEAN VARIETIES IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE FOREST STEPPE

In the article, a comparative analysis of common bean varieties is carried out according to valuable economic characteristics, with the aim of further prospects for their cultivation in the conditions of the forest-steppe of the right bank of Ukraine. Research was conducted during 2022-2023 in the conditions of the Vinnytsia National Agrarian University using the following varieties of common beans, namely: Slavia, Ros, Fainy Yas, Galaktika, Lastivka. Varieties were evaluated according to a number of parameters, including the duration of the growing season, the number of beans and seeds, the weight of 1000 seeds, plant height, as well as quality indicators of beans. As a result of the conducted research, it was established that the main biometric indicators depend on the varietal characteristics of common beans. The largest number of beans can be obtained from the Ros bean variety with an indicator of 24.2 pieces, and the largest number of grains in a bean from the cultivation of the Lastivka and Galactica varieties (8.2 and 7.7 grains). The bean variety Fainy Yas is able to form the largest mass of 1000 seeds - 860 g, and the varieties Lastivka and Galactica have a slightly smaller mass of grain. Varieties of beans are divided into short and tall plants. Bean varieties Slavia (32 cm), Galaxy (40 cm) and Lastivka (44 cm) belong to the first group, Fainy Yas (68 cm) and Ros (52 cm) belong to the second group, and in terms of the duration of the growing season, all bean varieties had the same period, which was 116 days, except for Ros variety. The highest yield of beans is obtained when growing the Fainy Yas variety (3.8 t/ha), and when growing other varieties of beans, the yield can decrease by 11-15%. The biochemical composition of beans depends on varietal characteristics. The varieties Faina Yas and Lastivka are characterized by the highest content of dry matter with a value of 90.55-90.60%, and the varieties Ros, Galactica and Lastivka have a high protein content - 24.27%, 24.48% and 25.49%, respectively. At the same time, Ros and Fine Yas varieties are characterized by a high sugar content. In conditions of open soil, varieties are able to accumulate sugars of 9.08 and 8.98%, respectively, or to exceed the content by 1.6-1.7 times. The highest value of ash was obtained from Fainy Yas and Lastivka bean varieties, in which the indicator was 4.51 and 4.66%, respectively.

Impact of Plant Spacing and Fertilization Dose on the Growth and Yield Traits of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Sudan

This study examines the impact of plant spacing and nitrogen fertilization doses on the growth and yield traits of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) in Sudan. Using a factorial experiment within a completely randomized block design, the research explored four spacing levels within raw, S1, S2, S3, and S4 (20, 25, 30, and 35 cm, respectively) and four nitrogen fertilizer doses, Ur1, Ur2, Ur3 and Ur4 (60, 80, 100, and 120 kg.ha-1 , respectively). Key metrics were measured: plant height, number of leaves, number of nodes, pod length, fresh weight, and seed count per pod. The results, analyzed via OPSTAT statistical software and ANOVA, indicated that a 60 cm × 30 cm spacing combined with a nitrogen dose of 60 kg.ha-1 significantly optimized growth parameters and yield components. Specifically, this combination resulted in the tallest plants (15.50 cm), the highest number of leaves (7.30), nodes (7.30), and greater fresh pod weight (7.69 g) and length (5.50 cm). Significant interaction effects between spacing and fertilizer doses were observed across all parameters at a 5% confidence level. The study recommends a 60 cm × 30 cm spacing with a nitrogen dose of 60 kg.ha-1 to maximize okra growth, yield, and quality in Sudan's agroecological zones, supporting sustainable agricultural practices and enhanced productivity. These findings can be directly applied to optimize okra production in Sudan, contributing to the country's agricultural sustainability.

Influence of Cow Dung Extract Complemented with Nutrient Solution on the Growth Performance of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L)

Limited studies have focused on plant growth performance using organic-based solutions complemented with mineral elements in a hydroponic system. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the growth performance of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) as influenced by cow dung extract combined with a hydroponic nutrient solution. Treatments considered as four different levels of aerated cow dung extracts (C), viz., C1 = 50 g l-1, C2 =100 g l-1, C3 =150 g l-1 and C4 =200 g l-1 and four strengths of standard nutrient solution (S), viz, S1 = 30% of standard nutrient solution, S2 = 40% of standard nutrient solution, S3 = 50% of standard nutrient solution and S4 = 60% of standard nutrient solution. The experiment was carried out using a deep flow technique in a semi-greenhouse. Various growth and physiological parameters were measured in this experiment. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis with 4 replicates by analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS. In the case of growth parameters, the tallest plant (23.54 cm), maximum number of leaves per plant (17.01) broadest leaf (13.32 cm), and the highest fresh weight (112.05 g/plant) were recorded from C3 while the lowest in C1. For hydroponic nutrient solution, the tallest plant (23.13 cm), the maximum number of leaves per plant (16.66), the widest leaf breath (14.17 cm), and the highest fresh weight (116.0 g/plant) were recorded from S4 while the lowest in S1. On the other hand, physiological traits viz. leaf area, net assimilation ratio, and relative growth rate were statistically higher in C3 and lowest in C1. In the nutrient solution, all physiological parameters were highest in S4 and the lowest in S1. In the case of the interaction effect, the highest fresh weight and almost all the parameters were found best in C3S4 and the lowest in C1S1. Therefore, the analysis showed that in terms of growth promotion properties hydroponic nutrient solution along with cow dung extract had a substantial impact and C3S4 was the most preferable treatment combination. Based on these findings, in a hydroponic system, an inorganic nutrient solution combined with organic liquid fertilizer derived from cow dung extract (as an alternative nutrient source) requires further improvements to achieve optimal growth and yield.