Subplot Treatments Research Articles

Productivity and Profitability of kharif Rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Seedling Age and Nitrogen Management

Aim: The aim of the experiment is to know the effect of seedling age and nitrogen management on growth, yield attributes, yield and economics of kharif rice. Study Design: The experiment was laid out in split-plot design. Place and Duration of Study: Research Farm of Agricultural Research Station, Brinjhagiri, Chhatabar of Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar (Odisha), during kharif season of 2023. Methodology: Three seedling ages viz. S1: 3 weeks (21 days), S2: 4 weeks (28 days) and S3: 5 weeks (35 days) as main plot treatment and four nitrogen management strategies i.e. N1: 100% N through urea, N2: 50% N through urea + 50% N through neem cake, N3: 50% N through urea + 50% N through FYM and N4: 50% N through FYM + 50% N through neem cake as sub-plot treatments replicated thrice. The net plot size was 4m × 3m. Results: S2 resulted highest grain yield (4.74t ha-1) and straw yield (7.18t ha-1). N1 produced highest grain yield (4.54t ha-1) and straw yield (6.96t ha-1). Maximum net return (Rs.60367) and return per rupee investment (1.98) received from 4 weeks old seedling with 100% N through urea application. Conclusion: Transplantation of 4 weeks old seedling (28 days) and 50% N through urea + 50% N through neem cake can be recommended to achieve higher yield. Maximum net return (Rs.60367), gross return (Rs.121687) and return per rupee investment (1.98) received from 4 weeks old seedling with 100% N through urea application.

Study on Nano-Zn, Inorganic, and Organic Nutrient Management Practices and Their Impact on Nutrient Availability in Kharif Maize (Zea mays L.)

A study was conducted to assess the impact of Nano-Zn, inorganic, and organic nutrient management practices on the physico-chemical properties and nutrient availability in Kharif maize (Zea mays L.) grown during 2022 and 2023 at Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur. The experiment followed a split-plot design, with organic manures (Control, FYM at 10 t/ha, and Vermicompost at 5 t/ha) as the main plot treatments and various nutrient management strategies (Control, 75% RDF, 75% RDF + ZnSO4 at 25 kg/ha, 75% RDF + Nano-Zn at 10 ml/litre, 100% RDF, 100% RDF + ZnSO4, and 100% RDF + Nano-Zn) as the subplot treatments. Results showed that combining 100% RDF with Nano-Zn and ZnSO4 significantly enhanced soil nutrient availability and improved physico-chemical properties compared to control treatments. The organic carbon content was highest in the 100% RDF + Nano-Zn treatment (0.492%), suggesting an increase in soil organic matter. Nitrogen availability was significantly higher in this treatment, with a pooled value of 151.167 kg/ha, compared to 143.443 kg/ha in the control. Phosphorus availability also increased in the 100% RDF + Nano-Zn treatment (16.337 kg/ha), indicating better phosphorus mobilization. Potassium availability was enhanced, with the highest recorded value (216.39 kg/ha) in the 100% RDF + Nano-Zn treatment, while the control treatment had 213.597 kg/ha. Zinc availability was markedly improved, with the 100% RDF + Nano-Zn treatment reaching 0.853 mg/kg, compared to 0.79 mg/kg in the control. This study demonstrated that integrating Nano-Zn and ZnSO4 with inorganic fertilizers significantly improved soil fertility, nutrient availability, and potentially enhanced crop performance in Kharif maize. These findings indicate that combining inorganic and nano-fertilizers could be an effective nutrient management strategy, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and improved productivity in maize cultivation, alongside better soil health.

Effect of Nano-ZnO on Growth and Yield of Summer Maize under Drip Irrigation in Laterite Soil

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Farm, Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, West Bengal, India during summer season (February–June), 2022 and 2023, respectively to investigate the effects of drip irrigation and nano zinc oxide biofortification on maize. In the main plot, four drip irrigations scheduling treatments viz., once-in-2 days, once-in-3 days, once-in-4 days and Irrigation by surface flooding method were accommodated. The sub-plot treatments consisted of five methods of zinc applications viz., control, soil application of ZnSO4 at 20 kg ha-1, foliar application of ZnO NP at 40 ppm, seed priming of ZnO NP (NP:Nano Particles) at 40 ppm, and seed coating of ZnO NP at 40 ppm. Growth parameter like plant height and number of leaves were highest with application water through drip irrigation once-in-3 days and seed coating of ZnO NP at 40 ppm at 30 DAS for both the years but at 90 DAS, drip irrigation once-in-2 days and seed coating of ZnO NP recorded highest growth parameters. Aerial dry matter accumulation in unit area recorded maximum in drip irrigation once-in-3 days and seed coating of ZnO NP at 40 ppm at 30 DAS but at 90 DAS drip irrigation once-in-2 days and seed coating of ZnO NP recorded highest. Cob girth, number of grains cob-1, seed index, grain yield and biological yield was observed highest with drip irrigation once-in-2 days and seed coating of ZnO NP in zinc treatment for both the years.

PSVIII-9 Effects of growth implants and timing of vaccination on calf immunity and growth performance

Abstract This study assessed calf growth performance and blood parameters of beef calves under different growth implants and timing of vaccination protocols. Crossbreed beef calves (n = 59) were stratified by birth body weight (BW) and age (41 ± 5.2 kg of BW and 70 ± 8 d of age) and randomly assigned in a split-plot design with implant strategy as the main plot and timing of vaccination as the subplot. The main plot (treatment) consisted of 3 implant strategies: 1) Synovex C (SC; n = 20; 100 mg progesterone/10 mg estradiol benzoate, or 2) Synovex One Grower (SG; n = 19; 150 mg trenbolone acetate and 21 mg estradiol benzoate; or 3) no implant (CON; n = 20). Subplot treatments were the timing of vaccination booster against bovine respiratory disease pathogens on 1) weaning (WV; n = 29) or 2) 7-d post-weaning (PWV; n = 30). Cow-calf pairs were treated alike in a single pasture during the pre-weaning phase, receiving the same vaccine (Bovi-Shield Gold One Shot and Ultrabac 7) on d 0 (implantation day) and booster time (WV or PWV). After weaning (approximately 187 d of age), calves were allocated in a single pen receiving ad libitum hay until d 60 post-weaning. Body weight and blood were collected on d 0, weaning, d 0 and 28 relative to vaccination booster, and d 60 post-weaning. Blood was collected to determine insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), cortisol, and leptin concentrations and to perform a complete blood cell count. WV calves had decreased cortisol concentrations on booster day and 28 d post-vaccine (P = 0.01). Regardless of implant treatment, calves tended to have decreased IGF-1 concentrations 28-d post-vaccine booster (P = 0.09). An effect of treatment (P < 0.01) was detected for lymphocyte counts, with CON having greater concentrations vs. SG and SC calves. A treatment × timing of vaccination (P < 0.01) interaction was detected for monocyte counts, where SG-PWV calves had the greatest concentrations. A treatment effect (P < 0.02) was observed for eosinophil percentage, where SG had reduced percentages than CON, while SC was intermediate. An effect of treatment was detected for leptin (P < 0.01), with SG calves having the least, CON being intermediate, and SC the greatest concentrations. From d 0 to 60 d post-weaning, SG tended to have greater ADG (P ≤ 0.07) compared with CON, while SC was intermediate. On d 28 and d 35 post-weaning, calves implanted with SG were heavier (P ≤ 0.04) than the CON but not than SC. In summary, this study demonstrates that growth implants and timing of vaccination significantly affect both physiological parameters and growth performance in beef calves. Implanting calves with Synovex One Grower resulted in improved growth performance.

Effect of Crop Establishment Methods on Rhizospheric Soil Microbiota in Mustard Due to Different Land-Use Systems

A field study was conducted to assess the effect of crop establishment methods on rhizospheric soil microbiota in mustard due to different land-use system at the Research Farm, Department of Forestry, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur (MP) for two consecutive years (2022–23 and 2023-24). The experiment was assessed in the double-split plot design with three replications. The experiment consisted of two land-use systems as main plot treatment (S1: Agroforestry system and S2: Open system), three crop establishment methods of mustard (M1: Broadcasting, M2: Line sowing, and M3: Transplanting) as sub-plot treatments and four levels of boron (B0: Control, B1: 1 kg ha-1 as basal B2: 2 kg ha-1 and B3: ½ kg ha-1 as basal + ½ kg ha-1 as foliar spray) as sub-sub plot treatments. The soil samples were collected after harvesting of crop during both the years of study to analyse soil microbiota (total bacteria, azotobacter, rhizobium, total fungi and actinomycetes). The results revealed that, significantly higher counts of azotobacter (31.37 CFU x 105), rhizobium (21.99 CFU x 106), total bacteria (42.78 CFU x 106), total fungi (8.30 CFU x 105) and actinomycetes (12.98 CFU x 105) were higher under agroforestry system than the open system. Meanwhile higher counts of azotobacter, rhizobium, total bacteria, total fungi and actinomycetes were found to be significantly superior in broadcasting (29.59 CFU x 105, 20.28 CFU x 106, 37.52 CFU x 106, 7.97 CFU x 105, 12.68 CFU x 105, respectively) over both line sowing and transplanting crop establishment methods. In case of boron levels, no significant changes occurred in the soil biology under both agroforestry and open systems. Hence, it could be concluded that vegetative cover over soil helps to proliferation of population of soil microbiota in the rhizospheric zone of crop.

Effect of Different Fertilizer and Silicon Levels on Grain Quality of Maize (Zea mays L.)

A field experiment with spilt plot design was conducted to study the ‘effect of fertility and silicon levels on the nutritional quality of maize’ during Kharif 2022 and 2023 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture (RCA), MPUAT, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The main plot treatments consist of four levels of Compounded NPK fertilizer (F0: Control, F50: 50% RDF, F75: 75% RDF and F100: 100 % RDF) and the sub-plot treatments consist of four levels of soil application of Diatomaceous Earth (Si0, Si100, Si200 and Si300). Pratap Makka-9 of maize variety was used for research purpose. The protein content, protein yield, carbohydrate and energy in maize grain were higher under 100% RDF than other levels of fertilizer. Application of 300 kg Diatomaceous Earth per hectare recorded higher protein content, protein yield, carbohydrate and energy in maize grain over the rest of silicon levels. The crude fat in maize grain was lower in 100% RDF. Application of 300 kg Diatomaceous Earth per hectare recorded lower crude fat in maize grain. Significantly higher protein yield was recorded under the combined application of 100% RDF and 300 kg diatomaceous earth per hectare. However, protein yield was at par in the application of 75% RDF with 300 kg Diatomaceous Earth per hectare and 100% RDF with 200 kg Diatomaceous Earth per hectare. The lowest crude fat was recorded under the combined application of 100% RDF and 300 kg Diatomaceous Earth per hectare over the rest of treatment combinations. Application of 100% RDF with 300 kg DE ha-1 (F100Si300) was recommended treatment for nutritional high quality maize grain.

Mammary gland responses to altering the supply of de novo fatty acid substrates and preformed fatty acids on the yields of milk components and milk fatty acids

The objective of our study was to evaluate the effect of altering the dietary supply of acetate, palmitic acid (PA), and cottonseed on the yields of milk components and milk fatty acids (FA) in lactating dairy cows. Thirty-two multiparous Holstein cows (133 ± 57 d in milk, 50.5 ± 7.2 kg/d milk) were used in a 4 × 4 Latin square split plot design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of subplot treatments. Cows were blocked by energy-corrected milk (ECM) yield and allocated to a main plot receiving a basal diet (n = 16) with no supplemental PA (Low PA) or a basal diet (n = 16) with 1.5% inclusion of a FA supplement containing ~85% PA (High PA). In each main plot, the following subplots of treatment diets were fed in a Latin square arrangement consisting of 14-d periods: 1) a control diet (CON), 2) the control diet supplemented with 3% sodium acetate (AC), 3) the control diet supplemented with 12% whole cottonseed (CS), and 4) the control diet supplemented with 3% sodium acetate and 12% whole cottonseed (CS+AC). The PA supplement and sodium acetate replaced soyhulls, and whole cottonseed replaced cottonseed hulls and meal. All diets were balanced for 30% neutral detergent fiber (NDF), 23% forage NDF, 28% starch, and 17% crude protein (CP). Sources of FA were classified as de novo (<16 carbons), mixed (16-carbon), and preformed (>16 carbons). The statistical model included the random effect of cow nested within basal diet and fixed effect of period, basal diet, acetate, cottonseed, and their interactions. Three-way interactions among basal diet, acetate, and cottonseed were observed for the yields of milk fat, 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM), and the molar yields of de novo FA, mixed FA, and preformed FA. In the Low PA diets, AC and CS+AC increased the yields of milk fat and FCM compared with CON and CS, whereas, in the High PA diets, CS+AC increased the yields of milk fat and FCM compared with the other treatments and AC increased milk fat yield compared with CON and CS. Compared with Low PA, High PA increased milk fat content, mixed FA yield, and tended to increase C4:0 yield. Diets containing acetate increased DMI and the yields of milk fat, ECM, FCM, de novo FA, mixed FA, and preformed FA compared with diets without acetate. Diets containing cottonseed increased the yields of milk and preformed FA, tended to increase the yields of FCM and protein, and decreased DMI and the yields of de novo FA and mixed FA compared with diets without cottonseed. In summary, in high PA diets, the inclusion of acetate plus cottonseed increased milk fat yield compared with the other treatments. The CON diet in High PA increased milk fat yield to the same extent as AC and CS+AC in Low PA suggesting PA is important for initiating milk TG synthesis. Balancing the supply of de novo FA substrates and preformed FA is important for increasing the synthesis of milk fat triglycerides and milk fat production.

Effect of Zinc Application on Growth, Yield, Zinc uptake and Zinc Use Indices of Rice

A field experiment was conducted at the agriculture farm, Palli Siksha Bhavana, Visva-Bharati, Birbhum, West Bengal, India during kharif (rainy) seasons (June–September) of 2016 and 2017 to study effect of zinc application on growth, yield and nutrient uptake of rice. The experiment was laid out in split plot design replicated thrice, consisting two main plot treatments i.e. crop establishment methods (CEMs) and seven sub-plot treatments (levels of zinc and methods of application). Two CEMs were direct seeded rice (DSR) and transplanted puddled rice (TPR) and seven levels of zinc and methods of application were namely control (Zn0), Seed coating of Zn @ 1250 mg kg-1 (Zn1), Seed coating of Zn @ 2500 mg kg-1 (Zn2), Seed coating of Zn @ 3750 mg kg-1 (Zn3), two foliar sprays @ 1050 mg kg-1 (Zn4), three foliar spray @ 1050 mg kg-1 (Zn5), 2500 mg kg-1 seed coating+2-foliar spray @ 1050 mg kg-1 (Zn6). In respect of yield attribute and yield, Zn6 resulted significantly highest number of Panicle m-2 as well as number of filled grains panicle-1. Zn3 though recorded 5.7% more grain yield than Zn6 but later Zn6 resulted highest zinc concentration and uptake. Zn1 recorded highest zinc use indices. Zn1 resulted much highest Zn use efficiency than foliar application and combined application of seed coating and foliar spray. Correlation between Zn levels and Zn concentration in both grain and straw of rice was highly positive; very highly positive correlation was recorded with the Zn levels and Zn uptake by both grain and straw.

Effectiveness of using the trap barrier system to control rats in palm oil plantations

Abstract. Efriansyah, Priyambodo S, Hindayana D. 2024. Effectiveness of using the trap barrier system to control rats in palm oil plantations. Biodiversitas 25: 2993-2998. Oil palm is one of the plantation crops that is the largest contributor to the country's income; increased market demand affects palm oil production, which continues to increase. Rats are among the most important pests in oil palm plantations because of their diverse habitats, large populations, and easy breeding. One of the mechanical control concepts that can be implemented is the Trap Barrier System (TBS) technique. This research method was implemented by installing a trap barrier between oil palm trees. This TBS research is divided into two methods. The first method used three treatments with three replications in the main plot, and there were three main plots. The second method used nine treatment sub-plots with three replications. The Ciliwung variety of rice was planted inside the TBS in a 3 m x 3 m plot. Field observations included the number of rats caught and the percentage of damage done at the trial's beginning and end. Species of rats found in oil palm plantations are Malaysian field rat (Rattus tiomanicus Miller, 1900), oriental house rat (Rattus tanezumi Temminck, 1845), and dan müller's giant sunda rat (Sundamys muelleri Jentink, 1879). The S. muelleri was the most frequently caught species in each block and method. TBS placement does not need to pay attention to the initial severity of the block. Providing additional bait in traps can increase the attraction of rats to TBS. The extent and intensity of attacks and yield losses in each block with TBS treatment showed a greater reduction than in blocks without TBS.

Root parameters and water productivity of rice and wheat in a rice‒wheat cropping system as influenced by enriched compost and crop establishment methods

Food security worldwide is largely dependent on the rice–wheat cropping sequence (RWCS) Hence, a field study was carried out during 2018–19 and 2019–20 at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, to determine the effect of various enriched organic sources and crop establishment methods on the root parameters, water productivity and yield of rice, its carryover effect on the succeeding wheat crop and the overall efficiency of system. A split plot design was used which involved two main plot treatments, viz., aerobic rice (AR) and conventional transplanted (CT) rice, and five subplot treatments, viz., T1: control (without fertilizer), T2: 100 % RDF (100 % fertilization by using inorganic sources), T3: 50 % phosphorus was applied by using P-enriched compost + 50 % P was applied by using DAP, T4: 50 % N was applied by using N-enriched compost + 50 % nitrogen was applied by using DAP and urea, and T5: 100 % organic fertilizer was applied (100 % fertilization by using N-enriched compost and P-enriched compost). After rice, wheat was grown in all the plots under uniform management practices. Among the nutrient sources, T4 had greater effects on root activity, system economic water productivity and system water productivity than did the other treatments. CT rice can be recommended under irrigated conditions with the integration of enriched compost and inorganic fertilizers. However, under rainfed conditions with less available water, aerobic rice can also be produced by combining enriched compost and inorganic fertilizer.

Influence of microbial consortia mediated in-situ rice straw management options on yield, economics and energetics in rice-wheat cropping system

A field experiment was carried out during rainy and winter seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 at ICAR-IARI, New Delhi to study the effect of crop establishment methods and microbial consortia (Pusa decomposer) mediated in-situ rice straw management options on yield, economics and energetics of rice (Oryza sativa L) (cv. Pusa Basmati 1509) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) (cv. HD 2967). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with three replications. The main plot consisted of two treatments viz., aerobic rice (AR) and conventional transplanted (CT) rice in wet season and seven sub-plot treatments viz. clean cultivation (removal of paddy straw), paddy straw incorporation (PSI), paddy straw mulching (PSM), PSI + Pusa decomposer (PD), PSM + PD, PSI + urea @ 20 kg/ha, PSI + PD + urea @ 10 kg/ha in dry season. In rice, results showed that grain yield (4.23 and 4.42 t/ha), net return (`69,470 and `71,682/ha) and energy output (157361 and 160950 MJ/ha) were significantly superior in CT rice than AR in main plots during both the years of experiment. However, sub-plot treatments showed a non-significant difference on these parameters. In wheat, among in-situ rice straw management options, paddy straw incorporation+ Pusa decomposer + urea @ 10 kg/ha treatment significantly resulted in higher grain yield (4.86 and 4.92 t/ha), net return (`62697 and `64801 /ha) and energy output (174951 and 176730 MJ/ha) compared to other treatments and control (clean cultivation). However, in main plots, statistically similar results were obtained with AR-wheat and CT-wheat. Thus, conventional rice transplanting resulted in significantly higher productivity and profitability over aerobic rice, however, AR consumed less energy (18.95%) and water (31.73%). Whereas, paddy straw incorporation+ Pusa decomposer + Urea @ 10 kg/ha was found effective in-situ rice management options with higher productivity and energy output compared to control.

Sub-surface drip fertigation of nitrogen coupled with crop residue incorporation enhanced the growth and yield of maize in an alluvial soils

A two-year field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to standardize the N-fertigation schedule and crop residue management in sub-surface drip fertigated (SSDF) maize [Pusa HQPM 1’ improved: double bio-fortified]. The experiment was laid-out in a split-plot design with 3 replications. There were 8 main-plot treatments comprising different N sub-surface drip fertigation levels (0, 50, 75, 100% RDN) with one conventional cultivation of maize, where RDN (150 kg/ha) was applied as per recommendation. Under sub-surface fertigation of N, each dose of N was divided into 3-and 4-splits, for fertigation. Sub-plot treatments included greengram residue (3 t/ha) and no greengram residue incorporation. P and K (60 kg P2 O5 /ha and 40 kg K2 O/ha respectively) fertilizers were supplied equally in all the plots by SSDF. Results revealed that plant height at various stages statistically varied with levels and splits of SSDF-N and crop residue incorporation. The highest plant height and leaf area were recorded with 100% RDN-4S which remained at par with 100% RDN-3S and 75% RDN-4S. Conventional maize cultivation was inferior to ‘RDN100’ and 75%, however on par with 50% RDN. The nitrogen uptake was found significantly superior in 100 and 75%RDN over conventional and control treatments. Similarly, the grain yield of maize was highest under 100% ‘RDN-4’ &amp;3 S, and 75% RDN-4S, which were at par with one another. Overall, it could be concluded that sub-surface fertigation of N not only improved the growth and yield of maize but also helped in 25–50% saving of valuable fertilizer.

Biofortifying drought-tolerant rice: enhancing growth and nutritional quality with foliar iron and zinc applications in Eastern India

Micronutrient deficiencies in staple food crops pose a significant global health concern, especially in regions prone to drought. Agronomic biofortification offers a promising solution by enhancing the content of essential micronutrients. This study aims to identify efficient rice varieties for iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) biofortification through foliar applications. A field experiment was carried out during kharif season in 2019 and 2020 with four drought-tolerant rice varieties (Swarna Shreya, Swarna Shakti Dhan, Sahbhagi Dhan, and DRR Dhan 42) were assessed under four foliar applications of Fe and Zn (control, 1% of Fe, 1% of Zn and combined 1% of Fe + 1% of Zn) at Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Research Complex for Eastern Region (ICAR-RCER), Patna. The highest grain yield of 5.65 t/ha was attained with the main plot treatment, Swarna Shreya variety, and in the subplot treatment, Fe + Zn foliar application resulted in a yield of 5.50 t/ha. The combined foliar application of Fe + Zn demonstrates the highest chlorophyll content and starch synthesis. Foliar application of combined Fe and Zn increased paddy grain Fe and Zn concentration by up to 30 and 16%, respectively, compared to the control. This finding is important for addressing micronutrient deficiencies in regions where rice is a dietary staple. Thus, Swarna Shreya, in combination with iron and zinc foliar application is a promising option for enhancing yield and fortifying grains in rainfed areas of eastern India.

Optimizing phosphorus requirement of seed potato through organic and inorganic sources in north-west India

Phosphorus optimization is essential to maximize seed-size potato productivity and reduce the occurrence of over-sized and under-sized tubers. A field experiment was conducted for two years at the two locations in Punjab, India to investigate the effects of organic and inorganic phosphorus management on seed potato productivity. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design with three organic (farmyard manure, biofertilizer, and control) treatments in main plots and five fertilizer phosphorus (0, 46.9, 62.5, 93.8, and 125 kg/ha P2O5) treatments in subplots. The application of farmyard manure (50 t/ha) resulted in a significant increase in growth and yield attributes, tuber yield, seed size (3.5–4.5 cm) tuber number, and economic returns. The percentage increase in seed size tuber number and tuber yield with farmyard manure over the control was 36.6% and 29.3%, respectively. Among the fertilizer phosphorus levels, the highest growth attributes, tuber yield, seed size tuber number and economic returns were obtained with a 125 kg/ha. The application of 125 kg/ha fertilizer phosphorus resulted in a 36.3% and 23.0% (mean) increase in seed size tuber number and tuber yield compared to the unfertilized phosphorus (0 kg/ha). No significant organic sources x fertilizer phosphorus levels interaction effects were found on any of the traits evaluated at both locations. The result of this study indicates that P management can play an important role in increasing seed size and productivity.

Effect of Planting Methods and Weed Control Treatments on Weed Dynamics, Yield and Economics of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.)

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior (M.P.), during the 2019 kharif season to investigate the effects of different planting methods and weed control treatments on the weeds, growth, yield, and economics of green gram. The field experiment followed a split-plot design with three planting methods as main plot treatments (broadcasting on a flat bed, line sowing on a flat bed, and ridge and furrow) and five weed management practices as sub-plot treatments (Pendimethalin 1000 g/ha, Diclosulam 26 g/ha, Imazethapyr 75 g/ha, hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS and weedy check), replicated thrice. The experimental field was primarily infested with narrow-leaved weeds such as Cyperus rotundus, Cynodon dactylon, Echinochloa spp., and Dactyloctenium aegyptium, and broad-leaved weeds like Digera arvensis, Celosia argentea, Commelina benghalensis, and Phyllanthus niruri. Among the herbicidal treatments, Imazethapyr at 75 g/ha effectively controlled both narrow-leaved and broad-leaved weeds, resulting in the lowest weed index. The ridge and furrow planting method recorded the highest values in growth parameters, yield attributes, and seed yield, proving to be more remunerative compared to other methods. These findings indicate that the combination of ridge and furrow planting with effective weed management, particularly using Imazethapyr, optimizes green gram productivity and economic returns.

Yield maximization in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson) through nutrient management and optimizing sowing date

In order to maximize yield of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj. & Cosson) by optimizing sowing dates and nutrient management, a field experiment was conducted at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Jaipur, India during 3 consecutive rabi seasons (2012–13 to 2014–15). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four replications. The two main plot treatments comprised date of sowing (D1: IV week of October; D2: II week of November) and four sub-plot treatments comprised nutrient applications (T1: RD-N40P60K40; T2: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250; T3: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn and T4: RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn + Fe). Result showed that the seed germination, seedling growth and seedling vigor index were better in D1 sowing over D2 sowing under control as well treated conditions. Chlorophyll content increased with the application of sulfur, zinc and iron during both the sowings, with greater magnitude in D2 sowing. Seed yield and its contributing factors viz. days to flowering, plant height, shoot length, leaf area; primary branches per plant, number and length of siliqua were significantly and variably affected by different nutrient combinations. Application of T3 significantly enhanced the seed and biological yield (23.13 and 74.03 q ha−1) (16.35% and 20.63%) over T1, respectively, and T3 was statistically at par with T4. T3 also provided the highest benefit:cost (B:C) ratio (2.14) and net returns (₹ 38168 ha−1). Thus, sowing of Indian mustard in the month of October and application of RD-N40P60K40+RDgypsum250+Zn (T3) is recommended to maximize its seed yield along with higher B:C ratio and returns under semi-arid conditions of India.

Effects of Lightweight Rolling, Sand Topdressing, and Insecticide on the Rhodesgrass Mealybug (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Golf Course Putting Greens1

Abstract Rhodesgrass mealybug, Antonina graminis Maskell (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is an important pest on golf course putting greens. Antonina graminis feeding causes extensive yellowing and browning that causes turfgrass mortality. Lightweight rolling and sand topdressing are standard cultural practices on the golf course; however, it is unclear whether they can reduce A. graminis densities and provide additional suppression when combined with insecticide. Thus, the objectives of the study were to determine the effects of (a) lightweight rolling and sand topdressing and (b) combining these practices with a systemic insecticide, thiamethoxam, on A. graminis densities on golf course putting greens. In 2021 and 2022, experiments were conducted in a split-plot design where lightweight rolling was the main plot treatment and sand topdressing, insecticide, sand topdressing + insecticide, and nontreated were subplot treatments. The numbers of A. graminis were not significantly affected by rolling treatment in the 2021 and 2022 experiments. Similarly, the sand topdressing alone had no significant effect on the A. graminis densities on the putting greens. The numbers of A. graminis were significantly lower for the insecticide (thiamethoxam) and combination of sand topdressing + insecticide treatment than for the nontreated subplot.

Influence of establishment methods and seed coating techniques on the performance of direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.) under Periyar Vaigai command area of Tamil Nadu

Rice is a crucial staple crop cultivated extensively in command areas worldwide. In the command areas, the release of water varies due to the inadequate amount of rainfall in the source area and its proper supply. To combat such situations, direct seeding (DS) methods can be opted for; however, lacunae like excess seeds per drop, scattering of seeds, and intercultural operations like thinning, gap filling, and excess weed growth need a clear refinement to enhance the profitability of rice cultivation. Therefore, a research trial was conducted during 2022-24 at Central Farm, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai, to evolve a suitable direct seeding method. The present investigation was laid out under a split-plot design comprising four main plot treatments and four subplot treatments replicated thrice. The main plot treatments comprised different seeding methods (S) and the subplot treatments comprised different seed coating techniques (P). Based on the experimental results, paper roll seeding and DS + Seed coating @ 2% KNO3 fb Bacillus sp. and Azospirillum (PR + P-KN) combination performed better on establishment with grain (6150 kg/ha) and straw yield (7824 kg/ha) respectively. Regarding the B:C ratio, OS-GP + P-KN resulted in higher with 2.64, closely followed by PR + P-KN with 2.61. The least effect was recorded in the combination of round slots in rice drum seeder and dry seeding (RS + DS). Investigating different techniques of direct seeding and seed coating is essential across various regions, particularly in regulated areas where water discharge remains unpredictable.

Effect of Varieties and Dates of Sowing on Seed Yield of Sunhemp

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Stattion, Amadalavalasa to identify a suitable sunhemp variety and sowing window during Khariff or obtaining higher yields in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh. The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture, medium in alkaline reaction (pH: 8.24), non-saline (EC: 0.22 dS m-1), low in organic carbon (0.5%), low in available nitrogen (219.3 kg ha-1), low in available phosphorus (22.18 kg P2O5 ha-1) and medium in available potassium (268.3 kg K2O ha-1). The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with four main plot treatments, three subplot treatments and with three replications. The main treatments comprised of four dates of sowing viz., D1: 1st may,D2:15th may,D3:1st june and D4: 15th june. The sub plot treatments comprised of three varieties viz., V1: K12 yellow, V2: K12 black and V3: SH 4. All the cultural practices were adopted as per the recommendations of University. The results of the experiment indicated that growth and yield of sunhemp was significantly influenced by variety as well as date of sowing. It was evident that sowing of sunhemp in North Coastal AndhraPradesh on 15th June was optimum as it recorded shorter plant height (224.8 cm), early flowering i.e flower initiation at 80 days, 50% flowering in 91 days, higher plant population and significantly higher seed yield (2.35 q/ha) was recorded. Among the varieties tested SH 4 produced taller plants exhibited early flowering and finally recorded significantly higher seed yield (2.16 q/ha). However, plant population did not vary significantly among the varieties. Interaction between dates of sowing and varieties indicated that for seed crop K12 black and SH 4 of sunhemp can be sown between 1st june to 15th June in North Coastal Andhra Pradesh for getting higher seed yield of sunhemp as the seed yield of the above two varieties and dates of sowing were atpar.

Effect of Planting Density and Nitrogen Levels on the Yield Attributing Characters of Fodder Maize (Shalimar Fodder Maize-1)

Maize (Zea mays L.) is widely known as a ready-made fodder crop. Maize is the third major cereal crop in the world, and in India, it ranks third. Maize has been an important cereal crop owing to its highest production potential and wider adaptability to varied agroclimatic conditions, hence being called the ‘Queen of Cereals’. The production potential of forage maize can be altered with changes in agronomic practices. The present study was undertaken with the objective of improving the yield attributes and quality traits of forage maize (Shalimar Fodder Maize-1). The experiment consisted of two factors, viz., three planting densities (viz., D1= 30cm x 10cm, D2= 40cm x 10cm, and D3= 50cm x 10cm) as main plots and five nitrogen levels (viz., N1= Control, N2= 75% RDN (recommended dose of nitrogen), N3= 100% RDN, N4= 125% RDN, and N5= 150% RDN) as subplot treatments with three replications, laid out in split plot design (SPD). The parameters such as yield attributes, and quality parameters were significantly higher when plants were grown at a density of 30 cm x 10 cm with a nitrogen level of 150 % RDN.