Total Plant Weight Research Articles

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. apii Race 4 Threatening Celery Production in South Florida.

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. apii (Foa), is a vascular disease affecting celery. This soilborne pathogen is classified into four distinct pathogenic races: 1, 2, 3, and 4. Notably, race 4 emerges as the most virulent, representing the latest evolutionary development of this pathogen, which was first reported in 2013 in California. In 2022, celery plants in South Florida exhibited typical Fusarium wilt symptoms, with the disease reaching a 100% incidence and causing yield losses ranging from 20 to 100%. Given the significance of celery as a vegetable crop and the severity of this outbreak, the primary objective of this study was to identify and characterize the causal agent of Fusarium wilt in South Florida. The second goal aimed to test the pathogenicity and virulence of the Fusarium isolates from Florida on celery and parsley plants. Using race-specific primers and dual-loci phylogenetic analyses, the isolates surveyed in this study were identified as Foa race 4. Pathogenicity assays in the greenhouse showed that the Foa race 4 isolate from celery induced disease not only on the two celery cultivars (Duda 30 and Duda 71) but also on two commonly cultivated parsley varieties (curly and Italian). Our study also revealed that the Foa race 4 significantly (P < 0.05) affected plant health attributes in all cultivars, including plant height, total plant weight, and root weight. Interestingly, the pathogen exhibited higher (P < 0.0001) virulence on parsley than celery based on vascular discoloration. These findings strongly indicate the urgency of comprehending and managing Fusarium wilt on celery and related crops. Furthermore, the ability of Foa race 4 to affect different plant species highlights a potential threat to agricultural production, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of this virulent pathogen.

The New Technology for In Vitro Culture with Induction of Nanobubbles (NBsN2 and NBsO2) in Cattleya sp.

The growth and development of orchids take a relatively long time, while the demand for high-quality orchids continues to increase significantly. Tissue culture is a technique of isolating plant parts in organs, tissues, and cells and then culturing these plants on artificial media in a sterile environment. Tissue culture techniques can reproduce plants in a relatively short time, with the same properties and quality, so efforts to optimize tissue culture with technology are the right solution, one of which is using nanogenerator technology that produces Nanobubbles (NBs). NBs are one of the nanotechnologies that are ?100 nm in size with induced gas needed by plants. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of growth and development from the induction of NBsN2 and NBsO2 in Cattleya sp. planlet in vitro culture. This research method uses in vitro culture with a Randomized Group Design. The results of the MsO treatment showed higher weight than other treatments, with a total plant weight value of 0.3550 g and a total plant height value of 1.3983 cm. Murashige-Skoog + NBsNitrogen (MsN) treatment showed higher root length than other treatments with a total value of 1.2367 cm. In the treatment of Ms, MsO, OJ and NJ, a live percentage of 83-100% was observed. The statistical test results indicate that NBs positively affect Cattleya sp. plantlets. This effect includes increasing plant weight, height, and root length and promoting new shoots growth. Additionally, nitrogen supplements play a role in colour changes, indicating the plant's health and photosynthetic efficiency. In the treatment with Induction O2, the initial colour changes from Strong Yellow Green (141 D) to Strong Yellowish Green (141 C), while in the treatment with Induction NBsN2, the initial colour changes from Strong Yellow Green (141 D) to Deep Yellow Green (141 B).

Effectiveness of Biochar application on the growth of red chili plants during the vegetative stage under waterlogging

The riparian wetland offers potential for horticultural crop cultivation, such as chili peppers. It is important to consider cultivation techniques and the use of organic matter to improve soil properties, particularly to combat waterlogging during the rainy season. This study aimed to assess the impact of biochar application on the growth of chili peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) during the vegetative stage under waterlogging conditions. This research was conducted at the experimental land of the Agrotechnology Department, Faculty of Plant and Animal Sciences, Universitas Bina Insan from December 2022 to February 2023. This research employed a complete randomized design (RAL) factorial with two factors. The first factor involved waterlogging stress, including control (C) and waterlogging stress (W). The second factor (N) encompassed the application of biochar, namely without biochar (N0), rice husk biochar (N1) and coconut shell biochar (N2) at a dose of 200 g plant-1. The results showed that waterlogging conditions (W) and biochar application (N) showed significantly different results in shoot length, root length, number of leaves, and total dry weight of chili plants, while the interaction (WxN) showed significantly different in shoot length and root length of plants. Treatment without biochar (N0) in waterlogging conditions actually showed shoot length, root length, number of leaves and total dry weight of plants that were significantly higher than treatment coconut shell biochar (N1) and rice husk applications (N2).

Recent Advances in the Extraction and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Corn By-Products.

Maize comes in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, red, blue, and purple, which is due to the presence of phytochemicals such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phytosterols, and some hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives. In Mexico, maize is primarily grown for human consumption; however, maize residues comprise 51-58% of the total maize plant weight (stalks, leaves, ears, and husks) and are mainly used as livestock feed. These residues contain numerous bioactive compounds that interest the industry for their potential health benefits in preventing or treating degenerative diseases. This review explores the current knowledge and highlights key aspects related to the extraction methods and different techniques for identifying the bioactive compounds found in maize by-products.

Effect of Exogenous Application of Humic Acid, GA3 and Vermiwash on Growth, Yield and Quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) under Valley Condition of Srinagar Garhwal

The effect of exogenous application of humic acid, GA3 and vermiwash on the growth, yield and quality of cabbage was studied in a field experiment. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design at the Horticultural Research Centre, Chauras Campus, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, with three replications and ten treatments. All of the growth, yield and quality contributing characteristics of cabbage were found to be significant. The growth parameters at 30, 45 DAT and at harvest were found to be maximum under T9 (GA3 @ 150 ppm). Yield parameters were found to be highest in T9 (GA3 @ 150 ppm) total plant weight (2188.67 g), average weight of head (1454.33 g), yield per hectare (321.43 q) whereas dry weight of head (10.00 g) in T6 (Vermiwash @ 100%), head diameter (18.98 cm) and core diameter (4.53 cm) in T8 (GA3 @ 100 ppm) and core length (8.62 cm) in T1 (Humic acid @ 100 ppm). Quality parameters were found to be highest under T6 (Vermiwash @ 100%) for head compactness (35.39%), whereas total soluble solids (5.20 0Brix) in T3 (Humic acid @ 200 ppm) and ascorbic acid (56.07 mg) in T1 (Humic acid @ 100 ppm). Economic parameters were found to be highest under T6 (Vermiwash @ 100%) for cost of cultivation (1,92,510 ₹/ha), gross return (10,66,030 ₹/ha) and net return (8,73,520 ₹/ha). Hence, it may be suggested that concentration of 150 ppm GA3 could use for enhancing the production of cabbage under subtropical condition of Srinagar Garhwal

Silicate Application Alleviated the Depressive Impacts of Nighttime Warming on the Rice Growth, Yield and Quality in Southern China

ABSTRACTNighttime warming decreased single rice production in southern China, while silicate supply increased the yield and stress resistance. It is still unclear regarding the impacts of silicate application on the growth, yield and quality in rice under nighttime warming. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the impacts of silicate application on the growth, yield and quality during rice growing period under nighttime warming. The warming was set at two levels, that is, ambient temperature (CK) and nighttime warming (NW). The open passive nighttime warming was used in this study, that is, rice canopy was covered with aluminium foil reflective film at night (19:00–6:00). Silicate fertiliser (steel slag) was applied at two levels, that is, Si0 (0 kg SiO2·hm−2) and Si1 (200 kg SiO2·hm−2). The results indicated that, compared with the control, the average nighttime temperature on rice canopy and at 5 cm soil layer increased by 0.51°C–0.59°C and 0.28°C–0.41°C during the rice growing period, respectively. Under nighttime warming, silicate supply increased the dry weight of shoot, total dry weight of the whole plant and yield by 64.1%, 55.3% and 7.1% at the filling‐maturity stage, respectively. Silicate application significantly reduced dry matter translocation rate with 15%–18%, but significantly increased the root‐shoot ratio with 0.39–0.41 in rice. Under nighttime warming, silicate supply significantly increased milled rice rate, head rice rate and total starch content by 2.3%, 2.5% and 41.8%, respectively. Nighttime warming reduced the yield by decreasing the number of effective panicle, seed setting rate and 1000‐grain weight, but increasing empty chaff grain. Silicate supply increased the yield by increasing the number of effective panicle, filled grains per panicle, seed setting rate and 1000‐grain weight, but reducing empty chaff grain. This study suggests that silicate supply can effectively alleviate the suppressive effects of nighttime warming on single rice growth, yield and quality in Southern China.

Resistance of Red Maple and Freeman Maple Cultivars to Phytopythium vexans, a Causal Agent of Root and Crown Rot Disease.

Phytopythium root rot caused by Phytopythium vexans is an emerging threat to red maple and Freeman maple production that seriously impacts plant growth, aesthetic, and economic values. This study reports on the resistance of red maple and Freeman maple cultivars against root rot disease caused by P. vexans. Rooted cuttings were received from a commercial nursery and planted in 3-gallon containers. For each cultivar, six plants were inoculated by drenching 300 ml/plant of P. vexans suspension, prepared by blending two plates of 10-day-old P. vexans culture/liter sterile water. An equal number of plants remained noninoculated and were drenched with 300 ml of sterile water. Two trials were conducted for 4 months in the greenhouse during the summer of 2023. Plants were evaluated for growth, physiology, Phytopythium root rot severity (0 to 100% of roots affected), and pathogen reisolation frequency. Out of seven cultivars, Somerset had the lowest Phytopythium root rot severity and pathogen reisolation frequency. Cultivars Autumn Blaze, Brandywine, and October Glory were highly susceptible to P. vexans, whereas Sun Valley, Summer Red, and Celebration were found to have a partial resistance to P. vexans. Cultivars Autumn Blaze, Brandywine, and October Glory had significantly lower chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, and stomatal conductance compared with the other three cultivars under pathogen inoculation. Phytopythium root rot reduced plant height, width, total plant, and root fresh weight. The disease severity was negatively correlated with width, chlorophyll content, net photosynthesis, and stomatal conductance. These results can aid growers and landscapers in developing effective P. vexans management strategies.

Comparison of Struvite as a P Source with Chemical Fertilizers and Evaluation of Additional Contribution to Growth and Mineral Nutrition of Lettuce Grown on Acidic and Calcareous Soils

This study investigated the effects of two different struvites (Struvite1 (STR1) and Struvite2 (STR2)) with different P amounts on the P nutrition of lettuce grown in acid and calcareous soils and fertilizer efficiency against di-ammonium phosphate (DAP), monoammonium phosphate (MAP), triple superphosphate (TSP), and 20–20-20 (NPK fertilizer). Two distinct forms of STR1 and STR2 obtained from the biogas liquid digestate (LD, liquid fraction of a centrifuge decanter) at different molar ratios (NH4+/Mg2+/PO43−), STR1 (1.0/1.3/1.0), and STR2 (1.0/1.3/1.3) were used. The results showed that struvites were the most effective treatments for plant growth. STR1 and STR2 treatments increased the plant fresh weights by 2.7-fold in acidic soil and 2.1-fold in alkaline soil. As for the plant dry weights, STR1 and STR2 treatments increased the plant dry weights by 2.4–2.2-fold and 2.3–2.2-fold in acid and alkaline soils, respectively. Struvites were more effective on the total plant weights than other fertilizers. Struvite-applied plants yielded higher P concentrations, uptakes, and recovery than MAP, DAP, TSP, and 20–20-20 fertilizers for both soils. Due to its constituent Mg, STR1 and STR2 were found to be the most effective materials for the Mg nutrition of the plants. It was also determined that they contributed to the N and K nutrition of the plants more than most other fertilizers. In conclusion, it was seen that struvites are not only a good source of P but also a fertilizer material with a high agronomic value. Therefore, they can be evaluated as an alternative fertilizer source.

Comparative study on the morpho-physiological responses and alkaloids content in Eschscholzia californica cham to foliar applied α-Fe2O3 NPs and ferric ions

The effect of iron oxide nanoparticles on medicinal plants biomass biosynthesis and antioxidant defense compounds should be assessed critically to ensure their safe and sustainable use within the agricultural fields and food chains. Current focus has been given to the effects of hematite nanoparticles (α-Fe2O3 NPs, ∼ 27 nm) and ferric ions (Fe3+) at different concentrations [(0, control), 10, 100 and 1000 mg L−1)] on morpho-physiological and biochemical parameters and benzophenanthridine alkaloids content in Eschscholzia californica plants. Upon exposure to α-Fe2O3 NPs, a significant (P < 0.05) inhibition (by 26.6%) of root biomass was observed at the high concentration (1000 mg L−1) over the control. As for the total dry weight of plants, significant (P < 0.01) increase (by 22.7%) was observed at all exposures, except that of 1000 mg L−1 α-Fe2O3 NPs/and Fe+3 treatment which was reduced by 12.8%. The treatment of 100 mg L−1 α-Fe2O3 NPs and Fe3+ caused significant increase in chlorophyll a (29.2% and 40%,), chlorophyll b (59.8% and 49.3%,) and carotenoids (14.3% and 25.4%%,) content when compared to control, respectively. However, accumulation of the lipid peroxidation product, malondialdehyde (MDA), in root and leaf tissues was similar (73.5% vs control) that was induced by 1000 mg L−1 α-Fe2O3 NPs. No significant change in MDA content was observed in leaves and roots of Fe+3 treated plants at all exposure doses. Furthermore, total phenolics and flavonoids content of the leaves and roots exposed to α-Fe2O3 NPs at 100 mg L−1 were significantly (P < 0.01) increased by 41–45%, 27–29%, and 44–48%, respectively, over the control. All obtained extracts revealed strong and significant scavenging effects on DPPH˙ as compared to control, but only exposure to 100 mg L−1 Fe+3 and α-Fe2O3 NPs treatment revealed the highest free radical scavenging/antioxidant activity by 44.2% and 37.65%, respectively. The alkaloid accumulation in leaves exhibited significant (P < 0.05) differences between the control plants and those treated with α-Fe2O3 NPs and Fe+3 of all concentrations. The eshchschollzine and sanguinarine contents showed no significant change in plants treated with Fe+3 concentrations; however, the exposure of high Fe+3 concentration increased (33.4%) the content of chelerythrine compared to control. Foliar applied α-Fe2O3 NPs enhanced the content of californidine (35.4%), eshchschollzine (22.3%), and eshchschollzine (19.1%) compared to control. The observed toxicity was dose-dependent for both α-Fe2O3 NPs and Fe+3. The synthesized endogenous secondary metabolites (e.g., phenolics, flavonoids and benzophenanthridine alkaloids) induce defense mechanism in exposed plants. These results suggest that specific concentrations (10–100 mg L−1) of α-Fe2O3 NPs have extra benefits both as a nanoregulator and nanoelicitor for plant growth promotion and biosynthesis of alkaloids and cellular antioxidants.

Изменение свойств почвы и морфометрических параметров пшеницы при внесении биоугля: вегетационный эксперимент

Abstract. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the effect of biochar on the physico-chemical properties of the soil and morphometric and some chemical characteristics of durum wheat (Triticum durum L.) and indirectly assess the availability of macronutrients in the soil-biochar system based on the state of plants. Methods. Biochar was obtained from birch sawdust at a temperature of 500 °C and was applied in the amount of 2 % of the weight of air-dry soil. Results. As a result of the vegetation experiment, it was revealed that the application of biochar led to changes in the properties of heavy-loamy agro-soddy-podzolic soil – a significant increase in the pH values of the water extract and the total nitrogen content, but at the same time – to a significant decrease in the content of total organic carbon content. Despite the improvement of some soil characteristics, the application of biochar did not affect the height of plants, leaf weight, root weight, nitrogen and phosphorus content in leaves and yield, and also negatively affected the total weight of plants and the weight of grains, which decreased by 15 % and 18 %, respectively, compared to control. The application of biochar had an impact on the structure of the wheat root system – its branching increased, while the diameter of the absorbing roots significantly decreased. The experiment also showed an increase in mycorrhization of roots due to the functional structures of the fungus – arbuscules and vesicles. The scientific novelty lies that the application of biochar from birch sawdust, despite the improvement of some physico-chemical characteristics of the soil, negatively affects the growth of wheat. The reaction of the aboveground parts of plants and the root system indirectly indicates a decrease in the availability of nutrients in the soil-biochar system. The results obtained in the work can be used to develop technologies for the use of biochar meliorants in various soils.

The effect of planting media composition and liquid fertilizer dosage on sand media on the growth of mustard plants (Brassica juncea L.)

The aim of this study is to analyze the potential of sand as a planting medium with the addition of cocopeat, obtain the dose of liquid organic fertilizer for sand media, and find the suitable combination of cocopeat for sand media. The method used is a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) Factorial with 2 factors. The first factor is the combination of planting media (sand and cocopeat) and the second factor is the dose of liquid organic fertilizer. The first factor consists of 3 levels: M1 (sand and cocopeat), M2 (sand and cocopeat mixed), and M3 (cocopeat and sand). Each planting medium has a height of 11 cm. The second factor has 3 levels: P1 (LOF 10 ml/l), P2 (LOF 20 ml/l), and P3 (LOF 30 ml/l). The initial stages carried out in this research include preparing the planting media, seed sowing (for approximately ±16 days), transplanting, and maintenance (watering and fertilization). Observations include monitoring every 3 days (plant height, number of leaves, and leaf width) and final observations (total weight of fresh mustard plants, weight of upper and lower mustard plant parts). The planting media (sand, cocopeat) influenced all parameters. The optimum dose of liquid organic fertilizer is a dose of 30 ml/liter. The most optimal interaction of planting media factors with the dose of liquid organic fertilizer is sand media, cocopeat, and a dose of 30 ml (M1P3) with an average total fresh weight of 4.14 grams. Keywords: Cocopeat, LOF, Planting media, Sand.

Maize Growth and Production Response With A Combination Of Microbial Consortium, NPK, and Ortho Salisic Acid

Corn is one of the most important food crops in the world. Corn has a high nutritional content, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Corn can also be processed into various food and beverage products. Corn production in Indonesia currently still does not meet national needs, one of the factors that causes this is the low productivity of corn. Various efforts have been made to increase corn productivity, one of which is by using fertilizers. The purpose of this study was to examine the response of corn growth and production with a combination of microbial consortium, NPK, and ortho salicylic acid. This study used experimental research methods. Data collection techniques in this study were carried out by literature study and observation. The data that has been collected is analyzed descriptively. The results showed that the consortium combination of 1 dose of 5 ml + NPK 15 gr + leaf fertilizer 3 ml was significantly different to increase the best growth in leaf area, total plant weight, corn weight, fruit diameter (base and middle). Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that the consortium combination of 1 dose of 5 ml + NPK 15 gr + Foliar fertilizer 3 ml can increase corn growth and production.

Dynamic plant spacing in tomato results in high yields while mitigating the reduction in fruit quality associated with high planting densities.

High planting densities achieve high light interception and harvestable yield per area but at the expense of product quality. This study aimed to maintain high light interception without negative impacts on fruit quality. Dwarf tomato was grown at four densities in a climate-controlled room-at two constant densities (high and low) and two dynamic spacing treatments (maintaining 90% and 75% ground coverage by decreasing planting density in 3-4 steps)-resulting in ~100, 19, 54, and 41 plants/m2 averaged over 100 days of cultivation, respectively. Constant high density resulted in the highest light use efficiency (LUE; 7.7 g fruit fresh weight per mol photons incident on the canopy) and the highest harvestable fruit yield (11.1 kg/m2) but the lowest fruit size and quality. Constant low density resulted in the lowest LUE and yield (2.3 g/mol and 3.2 kg/m2, respectively), but higher fruit size and quality than high density. Compared to low density, maintaining 90% ground coverage increased yield (9.1 kg/m2) and LUE (6.4 g/mol). Maintaining 75% ground coverage resulted in a 7.2 kg/m2 yield and 5.1 g/mol LUE. Both dynamic spacing treatments attained the same or slightly reduced fruit quality compared to low density. Total plant weight per m2 increased with planting density and saturated at a constant high density. Assimilate shortage at the plant level and flower abortion lowered harvestable fruit yield per plant, sweetness, and acidity under constant high density. Harvestable fruit yield per plant was the highest under dynamic spacing and low density. Under constant high density, morphological responses to lower light availability per plant-i.e., higher specific leaf area, internode elongation, and increased slenderness-coincided with the improved whole-plant LUE (g plant dry weight per mol photons). We conclude that a constant high planting density results in the highest harvestable fruit yield per area, but with reduced fruit quality. Dynamic spacing during cultivation produces the same fruit quality as constant low density, but with more than double the harvestable yield per area.

Exploring fermentation with lactic acid bacteria as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant potential in broccoli stem powders.

Fruit and vegetable industries face a major environmental challenge with food loss and waste. Broccoli stems, comprising 38% of the plant's total weight, are usually discarded by the industry producing fourth-range and ready-to-use products, despite being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and glucosinolates. Addressing the challenge of reducing waste in this sector includes the production of stable and nutrient-concentrated powders, which can be consumed directly or used as ingredients in functional food formulation. This study investigated fermentation with lactic acid bacteria (Limosilactobacillus reuteri, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus salivarius) as a pretreatment for enhancing antioxidant and probiotic potential in broccoli stem powders. Results showed maximum counts 24 h after inoculation, and no effect of the previous disruption intensity on microbial growth was observed. Fermenting broccoli stems for 24 h with the three microbial strains led to a significant increase in total phenols and flavonoids but to a general reduction in the samples' capacity to scavenge DPPH and ABTS free radicals. Overall, ground broccoli stems exhibited the most favorable antioxidant properties following the 24 h fermentation step. The subsequent freeze-drying and final grinding had minimal impact on the microbial population but significantly enhanced the extractability of the antioxidant compounds. This study offers a valuable reference for researchers and stakeholders exploring the development of new products and innovations from vegetable waste.

THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PLANTING MEDIA COMPOSITION AND LERI WATER APPLICATION ON GROWTH AND YIELDS OF LETTUCE (Lactuca sativa L.) ON VERTICULTURE SYSTEMS IN DRY LAND

This study aims to determine the interaction effect of the composition of the planting medium and the application of leri water on the growth and yield of lettuce (Lactucasavita L.) verticulture system in dry land. To determine the effect of planting media composition on the growth and yield of lettuce (Lactucasavita L.) verticulture system on dry land. To determine the effect of leri water application on the growth and yield of lettuce (Lactucasavita L.) verticulture system in dry land. This study used a split plot design (RPT) with 2 factors consisting of a main plot and subplots. The main plot was the planting medium, (M) which consisted of: soil : biochar (1:1) (M1), soil : guano (1:1) (M2), soil : biochar: guano (1:1:1) ( M3) and subplots were leri water, (A) consisting of 20 mL/L (A1), 60 mL/L (A2), 100 mL/L (A3). An interaction occurred in the observation of total plant fresh weight and shoot fresh weight with the best treatment being the composition of the planting medium soil: biochar: guano (1:1:1) with the addition of 60 mL/L of water. The composition of the growing media affected the observation of plant height 7-28 DAP, number of leaves 7 and 14 DAP, total plant fresh weight, shoot fresh weight, root fresh weight and root length with the best treatment being the composition of the single planting medium soil:biochar:guano ( 1:1:1). Giving leri water had a significant effect on the number of leaves observed at 14 and 28 DAP, total fresh weight of plants and fresh weight of shoots with the best treatment in giving leri water 60 mL/L of water.

Formation of productivity of amaranth varieties in the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine under the influence of MaxiMarin absorbent

Purpose. To carry out an economic evaluation of amaranth varieties ‘Kharkivskyi­1’, ‘Helios’ and ‘Sem’ for the application of MaxiMarin absorbent used to compensate for lack of rainfall and uneven moisture in the forest steppe of Ukraine. Methods. During 2021–2023, three varieties of amaranth and MaxiMarin brand absorbent in the form of granules were studied in the field (Uman, 48°46¢N, 30°14¢E) at an application rate of 25 kg/ha. The varieties were evaluated according to the following parameters: weight of leaves, inflorescence and roots, yield of green mass in the flowering and full maturity phases. Amaranth grain yield, protein, fat and starch content were also determined. The methods of analysis of variance and correlation were used. Results. The absorbent applied had a significant effect on the productivity indicators, which were characterized by a significant difference between varieties. In particular, the average increase in the mass of leaves per plant for the studied varieties of amaranth was 12.2%, the mass of inflorescence – 8.9%, or 3.6 g/plant. The variety ‘Kharkivskyi­1’ responded best to the introduction of an absorbent that improved growth conditions, the weight of its inflorescence increased by 12.6%, or 5.3g/plant. The strengthening of growth processes was made possible by the improved deve­lopment of the root system and an increase in its mass, depending on the variety, of 12.3–24.6% (2.1–3.0 g/plant). At the same time, total plant weight increased by an average of 12.4% (11.2–13.3% in different varieties). Green mass yield increased by 13.6–16.5% (4.75–5.75 t/ha) due to the use of absorbent and was in the range of 33.0–40.0 t/ha. The highest values were characterized by the variety ‘Sem’ – 34.3 t/ha in the control and 40.0 t/ha in the experiments with added absorbent. Its application also caused an increase in the yield of different varieties of amaranth by 0.30–0.38 t/ha or 16.0–18.3% (the most productive was the variety ‘Sem’ – 2.08 and 2.46 t/ha, depending on the variant of the experiment) and a significant decrease in the concentration of protein (by 0.1–10.0%), fats (by 7.4–19.5%) and starch (by 3.2–8.2%). Conclusions. Absorbents are an effective tool for levelling moisture imbalances and ensuring maximum realization of the productive potential of amaranth, but improving the water regime has a negative effect on the accumulation of protein, fats and starch.

Growth and Yield of Meranti Tomatoes (Lycopercium pipinelifoliu) Effect of Chrysanthemum Flower Waste Organic Fertilizer (Chrysanthemum morifolium) and Mutiara NPK Anorganic

The purpose of this study was to obtain the right dose of organic fertilizer combination of chrysanthemum flower waste and NPK Mutiara inorganic fertilizer to support the growth and efficiency of nutrient absorption levels of tomato meranti plants. The method used in this study was a complete randomized design (RAK) with 4 treatments and each treatment was repeated 6 time. The treatment made is P0: 500 kg ha-1 NPK Mutiara (100% NPK); P1: Dose of Organic Fertilizer Chrysanthemum Waste 15 Tons ha-1 + 25 % NPK; P2: Dose of Organic Fertilizer Chrysanthemum Waste 10 Tons ha-1 + 50 % NPK; P3: Dose of Organic Fertilizer Chrysanthemum Waste 5 Tons ha-1 + 75 % NPK. With observation parameters, namely plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, dry weight of upper plants, dry weight of lower plants, total dry weight of plants, leaf area index, net assimilation rate, and plant growth rate. The results showed that with the addition of organic matter of chrysanthemum waste fertilizer combined with NPK inorganic fertilizer was able to support the growth of meranti tomato plants in the vegetative phase of plants with a combined dose of chrysanthemum fertilizer 5 tons Ha-1 + 75% NPK showed the best results on plant height parameters, number of leaves and dry weight of plants.

Influence of different organic manures on the growth and yield of marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) plants

A pot experiment was conducted during rabi season in the year 2021-22 under net house condition of the Department of Soil, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka to evaluate the influence of different organic manures on the growth and yield contributing the characteristics of marigold. Seven types of organic manures, viz. Alo, Supermill, Mazim, Vermicompost, ACI, Kazi and Poultry manures were applied singly at the rate of 5 ton ha-1. The tallest plant of marigold (60 cm) found with Supermill, the maximum leaf number (367 plant-1) with Poultry manure, leaf area (6.56 cm2 plant-1), leaf area index (0.017), total fresh weight (15.55 g plant-1) and total dry weight (4.78 g plant-1) of marigold plants were recorded with Mazim organic manure. The highest number of branches (78 plant-1), flowers (11 plant-1), diameter (2.80 cm), fresh weight (1.90 g plant-1) and dry weight (0.54 g plant-1) were recorded in ACI organic manure. The upper limit length (8.0 cm) of root and the length of shoot (51.30 cm) were recorded in Supermill. The highest root-shoot ratio (0.22) was recorded in Kazi organic manure. The standard range of number of flower’s was 6 to 11 plant-1 with the treatments without using synthetic fertilizer or any toxic pest control substance. The maximum number of flower (11 plant-1) obtained with ACI. The findings indicated the clear possibilities of growing safe and environment friendly marigold flower in context of Bangladesh. The study revealed that all the sources of organic materials enhanced the growth and yield component of marigold. The study also generated a new information as guide line for future research target. The organic sources may be arranged according to the production of number of marigold flower: ACI&gt;Poultry litter&gt; Mazim&gt;Supermill &gt;Alo&gt;Kazi. Further investigation is needed for future research interest. Biodivers. Conserv. Bioresour. Manag. 2023, 9(2): 39-48

Pengaruh Kombinasi Pupuk Kandang Sapi dan Konsentrasi Pupuk Organik Briket terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Tanaman Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) Varietas Prancis Petite Orange .

Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) is an ornamental plant that has benefits in various sectors. The quantity of marigold flower production is related to the cultivation technique used. Soil conditions also affect the level of plant fertility. This can be overcome by means of fertilization. The aim of this study was to obtain a combination of doses of cow manure and bricket organic fertilizer concentration which gave the highest growth and yield of marigold plants (Tagetes patula L.) var French Petite Orange. The research was conducted at the Soursop Gardens of Casamora, City Parks and Forest Service, Ciganjur, Jagakarsa, DKI Jakarta in March - June 2023. The research method used was an experimental method with a Single Factor Randomized Block Design (RBD) consisting of 5 treatments repeated 5 time. The treatment consisted of A (0 ton/ha Cow Manure + 0 ml Organic Fertilizer Briquette) (control), B (15 ton/ha Cow Manure + 1.5 ml/liter of water Briquette Organic Fertilizer), C (20 ton/ha Manure Cattle + 1.5 ml/liter of water Organic Fertilizer Briquettes), D (15 tons/ha Cow Manure + 3 ml/liter of water Organic Fertilizer Briquettes), E (20 tons/ha Cow Manure + 3 ml/liter of Briquette Organic Fertilizer water ). The results showed that there was a significant effect of giving a combination of doses of cow manure and briquette organic fertilizer concentration in treatment E (20 tons/ha of cow manure + 3 ml/liter of water of briquette organic fertilizer) on flower diameter (32.49 mm), number of flowers (7.47), the number of branches (6.07) the yield of fresh weight of flowers (10.19 g), the yield of dry weight of flowers (3.74 grams), the yield of total fresh weight of plants (192.69 g), and the yield of dry weight total plant (54.55 g).

Potential of Biochar as a Peat Substitute in Growth Media for Lavandula angustifolia, Salvia rosmarinus and Fragaria × ananassa.

Peat has long been the primary substrate for the production of ornamental and horticultural plants in pots. Today, peat is no longer considered a renewable resource due to its very lengthy regeneration time. Biochar, a solid by-product of biomass pyrolysis, has been proposed as an agricultural soil amendment. We investigated the effects of two types of biochar, namely biochar from pruning wood waste and biochar activated with wood vinegar ("smoked biochar"), on two ornamental plants (Lavandula angustifolia and Salvia rosmarinus) and on strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa). For both types of biochar, we measured the following parameters: the pH, density, electrical conductivity, humidity, calcium carbonate, total carbon, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and water retention. For peat, we measured the following parameters: the pH, electrical conductivity, total carbon, and total nitrogen. Our results showed an overall increase in plant growth, particularly in L. angustifolia when using 10% and 50% biochar concentrations and a 10% concentration of biochar activated with wood vinegar. In S. rosmarinus, we observed a slight increase in the total plant weight with the application of 10% smoked biochar (biochar activated with wood vinegar). Finally, in F. × ananassa, we observed an increase in the plant weight and fruit production when 10% biochar was applied. On the other hand, when high concentrations of biochar (50% and 100%) and especially smoked biochar were applied, we observed a significant reduction in the growth of all plants. We concluded that biochar and biochar activated with wood vinegar showed remarkable biological activity with marked phytotoxicity at high concentrations. They promoted plant growth when applied diluted and their use as partial peat substitutes could help support more sustainable horticultural practices.