Yield Attributes Research Articles

Effect of Sowing Dates and Weed Management Practices on Yield Attributes of Summer Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

The present study aimed to determine the Effect of Dates of Sowing and Weed Management Practices on Summer Sesame in the New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal to explore the optimal strategies for weed control and improve sesame yield. The appropriate sowing date is a crucial factor in aligning plant growth stages with environmental conditions to achieve optimal yield. Sesame, known for its drought tolerance, is primarily grown as a dryland crop, particularly in the Indian subcontinent. A field experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2022 and 2023 at Instructional farm, Jaguli, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, West Bengal. The soil of the experimental site was clay loam in texture, near neutral in reaction (pH: 6.5) and non-saline (EC 0.3); medium in organic carbon (0.68%), low available nitrogen (196.76 kg ha-1) and high in available phosphorus (24 P2O5 kg ha-1) and available potassium (294.5 K2O kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in split plot design having dates of sowing i.e. D1: February 21st, D2: March 7th, and D3: March 22nd in main plot and Sub plot treatments comprised of weed management practices i.e. W1- Pendimethalin @ 1 kg a.i. ha-1 [2 DAS (days after sowing)] + Hand weeding (30 DAS),W2- Butachlor@ 1kga.i. ha-1(2 DAS)+Hand weeding(30 DAS),W3- Hand weeding(15DAS)+ Quizalofop ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 (30 DAS), W4- Pendimethalin @ 1 kg a.i.ha-1 (2 DAS) + Quizalofop ethyl @ 50 ga.i. ha-1 (30 DAS), W5- Butachlor @ 1 kg a.i.ha-1 (2 DAS) + Quizalofop ethyl @ 50 g a.i. ha-1 (30 DAS),W6- Hand weeding (15 DAS) + Hand weeding(30DAS),W7-Weedycheck and W8-Weed free check and replicated thrice. The sesame variety ‘Savitri’ was chosen for the experiment. The yield attributes and yield associated characters like number of branches plant-1, number of capsules plant-1, number of seeds capsule-1 and number of seeds plant-1 were significantly influenced by dates of sowing and weed management practices; however, 1000 seed weight (test weight) was not influenced by dates of sowing and weed management practices. Sowing on 7th March (D2) recorded a significantly higher number of branches plant-1(6.26), number of capsules plant-1 (52.97), number of seeds capsule-1 (45.74) and number of seeds plant-1(2137.37). Among weed management treatments, weed-free check (W8) inscribed significantly more number of branches plant-1(8.12), number of capsules plant-1(58.13), number of seeds capsule-1 (50.12) and number of seeds plant-1 (2462.36 and 2232.96) and it was at par with Pendimethalin @ 1 kg a.i. ha-1 (2 DAS) + Hand weeding (30 DAS) i.e. W1. No significant effect had been observed among the interactions with respect to the yield attributing characters. Determining the optimal sowing time, which enhances the efficient use of the land area, along with selecting a cultivar that offers a high average yield, is a key factor in ensuring a profitable return from sesame cultivation.

Influence of bio-enhancers and bio-fertilisers on the physical, physicochemical and yield attributes of winter-season guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49

The study explores the impact of bio-enhancers and bio-fertilizers on the physical and physicochemical characteristics of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. L-49. An experiment was conducted over 2022-23 and 2023-24 at Nursery Kalyanpur, Department of Fruit Science, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. The study evaluated different treatments, including combinations of Farm Yard Manure (FYM), organic mulch (paddy), Amritpani, Panchagavya, Jivamrit, Azotobacter and PSB culture. The study evaluated various physical (fruit diameter, weight, volume, specific gravity, pulp weight, seed weight, pulp to seed ratio and seed count per fruit) and physicochemical attributes (ascorbic acid content, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, reducing sugar and non-reducing sugar). Yield per ha was also assessed. The results demonstrated significant improvements in the physical attributes of guava with the T9 treatment (FYM, organic mulch, Panchagavya, PSB culture and Azotobacter), yielding the largest fruit diameter (8.26 cm), highest fruit weight (146.61 g) and highest pulp weight (121.83 g). Physicochemical properties such as increased ascorbic acid (294.91 mg/100 g), TSS (13.54 %), total sugars (12.3 %) and reduced titratable acidity (0.61 %) were also improved. This study underscores the potential of integrating bio-enhancers and bio-fertilisers to enhance guava fruit quality and yield.

Impact of green synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles from Rhododendron arboretum on wheat (Triticum aestivum): Evaluation of morpho-physiological, biochemical and yield attributes

Impact of green synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles from Rhododendron arboretum on wheat (Triticum aestivum): Evaluation of morpho-physiological, biochemical and yield attributes

Moringa dried leaf extract as bio-foliar fertilizer for revitalizing performance and nutritional status of soybean

Naturally occurring plant based biostimulants can be used to improve crop productivity and quality as an eco-friendly approach. Moringa oleifera, known as the miracle tree, is a rich source of essential nutrients and beneficial compounds that can act as a potent growth enhancer. Its leaves are nutrient dense that contain rich blends of essential vitamins (A, C, K, and E), riboflavin, iron (Fe) and diverse range of phenolics. The current work (pot experiment) aimed to appraise whether moringa dried leaf extract (MDLE) could improve growth, physiology, seed nutritional and quality attributes of soybean (Glycine max). The designed study followed a completely randomized design with factorial arrangement having four replications examining various MDLE concentrations [water spray as control, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% (w/v)] and growth stages [vegetative (V4, four leaf stage) and reproductive (R1: onset of flowering)] of soybean. The results revealed that foliar application of 1.5% MDLE during the reproductive stage of soybean showcased statistically significant improvements in growth, yield and seed nutritional attributes. Notably, seedling growth attributes, photosynthetic pigments, leaf area, gas exchange parameters, yield attributes, seed nutritional and quality attributes were significantly boosted. The observed improvements in soybean growth, physiology, and yield can be attributed to the bioactive compounds in MDLE. Cytokinins promote cell division and delay senescence, antioxidants mitigate oxidative stress, and essential minerals enhance nutrient uptake and enzymatic activity. These interactions collectively enhance photosynthesis, biomass accumulation, and seed development, leading to improved crop performance. Overall, increments in seedling growth metrics (22%), leaf area (16.12%), carotenoids (photosynthetic pigment) (8.33%), gas exchange attributes (18%), yield components (37%) and seed nutritional attributes (18%) were observed with 1.5% MDLE application during the reproductive stage. This underscores the potential of MDLE foliar application during reproductive stage in improving soybean growth, quality and seed nutritional contents. Compared to other biostimulants, MDLE offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative with multiple benefits, including enhanced nutrient efficiency, reduced dependency on synthetic fertilizers, and potential resilience against abiotic stress. Its scalability in large-scale agriculture is promising due to its easy preparation, affordability, and compatibility with existing farming practices, making it an attractive option for sustainable intensification. Future research should uncover how MDLE works and its potential in stressful environments in field as well as in controlled conditions, advancing sustainable agriculture.

Estimation of genetic diversity in sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) through multivariate analysis

Sweet pepper is an important emerging exotic vegetable crop in Bangladesh, which play an essential function in the country economy, food and nutrition but there are not enough acceptable high yielding varieties. In this regard the objectives of this investigation was to ascertain the extent of genetic variation and to mark out the diverse parents among the genotypes that was collected for the purpose of implementing a hybridization program. Twenty one genotyes were employed and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) demonstrated that the genotypes exhibited significant (p<0.01) differences in the majority of the studied parameters. For the purpose of choosing diverse parents, multivariate analytical system including PCA (Principal Component Analysis), PCO (Principal Co-ordinate Analysis), CVA (Canonical Variate Analysis) and Cluster analysis were performed for yield and yield attributes. Analysis using principal components showed that the first four component were accountable for 83.40% of the total variation among the fourteen yield contributing attributes. Through the use of principal coordinate analysis, the inter-genotypic distance was calculated, resulting in the SP 01 and SP 07 genotypes exhibiting the greatest distance of 2.585. The genotypes were separated into six specific cluster (I-VI), cluster I (08) had the most genotypes, the greatest distance between clusters IV and II (17.111) was observed, and the maximum cluster mean range for individual fruit weight was recorded (67.70 to 208.71 g). Considering, the different multivariate analytical results the genotypes SP 03, SP 05 and SP 08 from Cluster I, SP 14 from Cluster II, SP 01 from Cluster IV and SP 09, and SP 17 from Cluster VI were selected for the hybridization program. J. Sylhet Agril. Univ. 11(1): 47-58, 2024

Genetic variability and correlation studies based on diverse wheat panel for grain yield and related attributes under north-western Himalayan conditions

Genetic variability and correlation studies based on diverse wheat panel for grain yield and related attributes under north-western Himalayan conditions

Phytochemical properties, yield and yield attributes of promising country bean genotypes grown in acidic soil condition during winter

An experiment with three promising country bean genotypes- BARI Sheem-1, Sikribi Sheem-1 and Goalgadda was conducted at the experimental field and laboratory of Horticulture Department, Sylhet Agricultural University, from November 2022 to March 2023. The objective was to observe their growth, green pod and seed yield, nutrition and phytochemical properties in acidic soil condition of Sylhet. The RCB (Randomized Complete Block) design was used with three replications. Days to first flower was found earlier for Sikribi Sheem-1 (48.50 days) and BARI Sheem-1 (51.75 days). Sikribi Sheem-1 recorded the earliest harvest at 71.5 days. The highest number of green pods plant-1 was in Sikribi Sheem-1 (582.5), while Goalgadda had the lowest (329.45). Goalgadda also had the largest fruit size with pod length (13.95 cm) and breadth (3.37 cm), leading to the heaviest individual fruit weight (10.14 g). Despite having the fewest pods, Goalgadda matched the pod yield of the other varieties due to its heavier fruit. Sikribi Sheem-1 had the highest number of dried pods (477.75), seed yield plant-1 (347.50 g), and seed yield ha-1 (2.37 ton). Goalgadda had the heaviest 100-seed weight (50.52 g). In green pods, Goalgadda had the lowest fibre (0.25%) and crude fibre (6.30%), indicating it is more palatable. Goalgadda also had the highest ash content (6.73%), while Sikribi Sheem-1 had the highest crude protein (26.51%) and BARI Sheem-1 had the most Vitamin C (13.21 g100g-1). Goalgadda exhibited the highest phytochemical properties with total phenolic content (14.60 μgmg-1) and antioxidant activity (31.12%). The flavonoid content was significantly higher in BARI Sheem-1 (3.36 μgmg-1) and Goalgadda (3.11 μgmg-1) compared to Sikribi Sheem-1 (2.22 μgmg-1). All three varieties are nutrient-rich and suitable for cultivation in acidic soils for pod production, with Sikribi Sheem-1 being the best for seed production. J. Sylhet Agril. Univ. 11(1): 67-74, 2024

Effect of Sewage Sludge Treatment and Rhizobium Inoculation on Growth, Nodulation Yield Attributes in Lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) under Field Conditions

This study investigated the effects of sewage sludge treatment and Rhizobium inoculation on the growth, yield, and nodulation of lentil (Lens culinaris Medic.) under field conditions. The experiment was conducted at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University over two growing seasons using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Four doses of sewage sludge (0, 10, 20, and 40 t ha-¹) were applied with and without Rhizobium inoculation. The results revealed significant seasonal variations, with biological yield decreasing from 8306 kg ha-¹ in 2003-04 to 3262 kg ha-¹ in 2004-05, and grain yield declining from 2716 kg ha-¹ to 633 kg ha⁻¹. The application of 20 t ha-¹ sewage sludge resulted in the highest biological yield (6724 kg ha-¹) and grain yield (1854 kg ha-¹), while higher doses (40 t ha-¹) negatively impacted seed yield. The number of plants per square meter significantly varied between years, and reduced from 183 in 2003-04 to 74 in 2004-05, thereby altering growth and yield attributes. Sewage sludge increased plant density, reaching 153 at 40 t ha-¹, while Rhizobium inoculation slightly reduced it. In contrast to grain and biological yields, the number of seeds per plant and seed yield per plant decreased with increasing sewage sludge doses. Overall, the study suggests that 20 ton ha-¹ sewage sludge application optimizes lentil productivity in semi-arid conditions, but higher doses may lead to reduced yield.

Response to Reduced Doses of Mepiquat Chloride on Yield and Quality Characteristics of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) in the Mediterranean Region of Türkiye

Objective: A field study was undertaken to examine the effect of reduced Mepiquat chloride (MC) dosage applied at different times to enhance the yield and quality attributes of cotton at the Eastern Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute, Adana, Türkiye, during the 2022 cropping season. Material and Methods: A split-split plot experiment following a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed.Varieties (Sezener and Selin) were assigned to the main plots, application times (before and after flowering) to the sub-plots, and MC concentrations (0, 40, 40+40 and 80 cc/da) to the sub-sub-plots. Results: Results shown that Sezener outperformed Selin across metrics: higher fiber yield (490.6 vs 447.5 kg/ha), reflectance (69.8 vs 63.5), and yellowness (11.9 vs 10.8). Under Sezener, the 80 cc/da dosage at 60 days after sowing maximized yield (530.2 kg/ha). Selin showed poorest yield (360.3 kg/ha) and highest trash (2.60%), while Sezener had lowest (0.57%). Mepiquat chloride doses effected quality parameters differently for both varieties. The effect changed within application time. It has been determined that the application of Mepiquat chloride has different effects on the quality parameters in two varieties, and the effect varied according to the time of application. As a matter of fact, in the yellowness parameter, unlike other quality parameters, Selin variety had the lowest, while Sezener had the highest value. Conclusion: Although most effects were not statistically significant, certain variety-application time interactions revealed practical differences that may inform future studies. Therefore, to maximize monetary returns, further research is needed to enhance yield and quality parameters in the Mediterranean region of Türkiye. In addition, more comprehensive studies should be carried out to understand the change in the effect of Mepiquat chloride application on the basis of varieties.

Response of Onion Growth and Yield to Potassium Application in Alkaline Soils

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most important commercial vegetables, which, after tomatoes, ranks second in the world, especially in Afghanistan. It is a great source of vitamins, protein, and amino acids, which are useful for human food and traditional medicine. This experiment was conducted in 2022 at the research farm of the agriculture faculty of Kabul University to find out the response of onion to potassium application in alkaline soil. The different levels of potassium (0, 11.25, 22.5, 33.75, 45, 56.25, 67.5, 78.75, and 90 kg per hectare) were used as treatments. The growth, quality, and yield attributes of onions were studied in this investigation. The research was designed in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), and the data was analyzed with Statistical Tools for Agricultural Research (STAR 2.0.1) software. The results show that the application of 22.5 kg per hectare potassium boosts both growth and yield attributes of onion. Farmers are suggested to apply this quantity of potassium through the sulfate of potash to produce a higher yield of onion.

Genetic Variability, Character Association and Diversity Analysis in Bitter Gourd (Momordica Charantia L.) for Growth and Yield Attributing Traits in Bangladesh

The goals of this study are to assess the field performance, character association, variability, and genetic diversity of 50 bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) accessions collected from various locations of Bangladesh. To evaluate the morphological and qualitative characteristics, as well as to assess the genotypic and phenotypic variability and correlation, the study employed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. MC022 exhibited the highest yield (2.50 kg/plant), MC080 in number of fruits per plant (35.67), and MC079 in average fruit weight (101.69 g) among all accessions. Numbers of flowers per plant (99.14), petiole (97.84), vine length (97.81), and yield per plant (94.08) exhibited high heritability with genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation. The maximum phenotypic variance (4676.60) and genotypic variance (4574.40) were both recorded at vine length. The average fruit weight was significantly positively correlated with the yield per plant at both the genotypic (r = 0.873**) and phenotypic (r = 0.861**) levels. Cluster I contained the most accessions (14). No limitations were detected. It can be concluded that bitter gourd accessions exhibit a diverse array of qualitative and morphological traits. In addition, the yield of different bitter gourd accessions was correlated with an assortment of yield-contributing attributes. The genotypic coefficient of variation was less than the phenotypic coefficient of variation in all of the traits. Fruit length, average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, and yield per plant were found to have higher values and lower differences between phenotypic and genotypic co-efficient of variation, indicating a high potential for selecting superior accessions. J Bangladesh Agril Univ 23(2): 99–112, 2025

Optimizing Wheat Production and Resource Use Efficiency under Varying Tillage and Residue Management Systems

A field investigation was carried out during two consecutive rabi seasons (2019–20 and 2020–21) at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to evaluate the effect of different tillage and residue management practices on growth, yield performance, and resource use efficiency in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising six treatment combinations involving conventional and zero tillage with and without residue retention on flat and raised beds. The results indicated that conventional tillage on raised beds with residue retention (CT-RB+R) significantly improved plant growth parameters, yield attributes, grain yield, and economic returns compared to other treatments. Pooled data analysis revealed that CT-RB+R recorded the highest grain yield (5050 kg ha⁻¹), which was statistically at par with conventional tillage on flat beds with residue (CT-FB+R: 4758 kg ha⁻¹), and significantly superior to zero tillage without residue (ZT–R: 4225 kg ha⁻¹). The maximum benefit-cost ratio (2.57) was achieved under ZT+R. The findings underscore the potential of integrated tillage and residue management practices, particularly CT-RB+R, for enhancing wheat productivity and economic viability under the semi-arid agro-ecological conditions of central India.

FORAGE YIELD RESPONSE OF SOME GRASS PEA GENOTYPES TO ORGANIC FERTILIZER AND STUBBLE HEIGHT IN DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF SULAIMANI REGION- IRAQ

This study was conducted at two locations, Qlyasan Agricultural Research Station and Kanipanka Nursery Station, during the 2023–2024 winter season to investigate the effects of organic fertilizer and stubble height on forage yield attributes of grass pea genotypes. A split-split plot design was used with three factors: fertilizer application (F0= no fertilizer, F1= organic fertilizer), genotypes (G1: Local, G2: IGC-2011-62, G3: IGC-2011-35, G4: IGC-2011-9), and stubble height (SH1= 5cm, SH2 = 10cm). Fertilizer application significantly increased DFY in Kanipanka. Genotype significantly influenced most forage yield attributes, with G1 showing the highest values. Stubble height significantly affected GFY and DFY, particularly in Qlyasan. Kanipanka outperformed Qlyasan in key yield attributes. Cluster analysis identified two genotype groups, indicating genetic variability. Proper management of fertilizer. Interaction effects were observed for fertilizer × genotype and fertilizer × stubble height. Genotype selection and stubble height can optimize forage yield.

Effect of Seed Priming Techniques on Germination, Growth and Yield Attributes of Aged Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Effect of Seed Priming Techniques on Germination, Growth and Yield Attributes of Aged Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

The impacts of watershed management practices on crop yield potential in Yezat Watershed, North West, Ethiopia.

Land management practices have been implemented in various regions of Ethiopia since the 1980s to address land degradation, enhance land productivity, and improve the livelihoods of rural communities. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the impacts of watershed management on crop yield potential in the Yezat watershed. Crop yield data were collected from 45 fixed plots using quadrant measurements (5 × 5m) and from 346 households through a questionnaire survey within the watershed area. One-way ANOVA was employed to assess the mean variances of crop yield and yield attributes across different treatment groups. Additionally, a post hoc analysis was conducted to determine statistically significant differences in crop yields among the various treatments. A paired-samples t-test was also applied to compare teff crop yields before and after watershed management interventions. The findings of the study revealed a statistically significant difference in plant height across physical, bio-physical, and control farmlands (P ≤ 0.05). The tallest teff plants were found in areas with bio-physical watershed management interventions, followed by those with physical treatments, while the shortest plants were observed in untreated areas of the watershed. Similarly, the longest spike length (47.4cm) was recorded in farmlands with bio-physical treatments, followed by those with physical treatments (44.4cm). In contrast, the shortest spike length (30.3cm) was observed in untreated farmlands. This difference is likely due to soil erosion, reduced soil moisture, and high bulk density in the untreated areas. Furthermore, the number of productive tillers in a 25-m2 area (from the upper, middle, and lower watershed), aboveground biomass yield, straw yield, and crop yields were significantly influenced by watershed management interventions (both bio-physical and physical types) (P ≤ 0.05). These improvements are likely linked to soil and water conservation (SWC) techniques, which enhance soil moisture availability by increasing infiltration and preventing the loss of vital soil nutrients through erosion. However, the number of tillers did not show a statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between treated and untreated areas of the study. Overall, the results suggest that watershed management positively impacts crop yield and yield attributes, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving agricultural productivity.

Integrating Multi-Trait Selection Indices for Climate-Resilient Lentils: A Three-Year Evaluation of Earliness and Yield Stability Under Semi-Arid Conditions

This research assessed 42 lentil genotypes developed by ICARDA along with a local variety over three growing seasons (2019–2022) in Southeastern Türkiye. Phenological, morphological, and yield attributes were determined to observe earliness, yield stability, and adaptation properties. Genotype G3771 showed outstanding performance in grain yield (2579 kg ha−1), 1000-seed weight (54.9 g), and harvest index (37.3%), although it had lower stability under more severe drought conditions. Early-maturing genotypes like G3744, G3715, and G3716 consistently flowered and matured sooner, making them better suited for escaping terminal drought stress areas. The highest yields were recorded during the 2019–2020 season, which experienced favorable rainfall and soil nutrient levels, while the lowest yields occurred due to changing climatic conditions in the 2020–2021 season, highlighting the crop’s sensitivity to climate. Principal component analysis, hierarchical clustering, the Modified Multi-Trait Stability Index (MTSI), and the Multi-Trait Genotype-Ideotype Distance Index (MGIDI) aided in effective genotype classification. Although G3771 was the most productive, genotypes G3687, G3715, and G3689 proved to be the most stable and early maturing based on MGIDI scores. Strong relationships between grain yield, biological yield, and seed size identified these as key selection criteria. This study underscores the value of multi-trait selection tools like MGIDI and MTSI in consistently pinpointing lentil genotypes that balance earliness, productivity, and adaptability, laying a strong foundation for developing climate-resilient varieties suited to semi-arid climates.

Effect of sowing methods and spacings on growth and yield attributes of spring maize (Zea mays L.) in Parbat, Nepal

The study was conducted in Phalewas Municipality, Parbat district, Nepal to assess the effect of two sowing methods (ridge bed and raised bed) and four plant spacings (60×15 cm, 60×20 cm, 60×25 cm and 60×30 cm) on growth and yield characteristics of spring maize for improving the maize yield. This experiment aimed to identify adequate sowing method and optimum spacing using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Results of this study showed that yield attributing characteristics per plant was significantly (p<0.05) impacted with decrement in plant spacing up to 60×15 cm. Likewise, number of cobs per plant, ear length, ear circumference, number of kernels per row, grains per cob was found significantly at par up to 60×20 cm spacing but significantly (p<0.05) higher than 60×15 cm. 60×20 cm spacing was found to have the highest impact on biometrical as well as yield attributes. The grain yield (6.53 Mt/ha) was significantly (p<0.05) higher at 60×20 cm than at 60×25 cm and 60×30 cm but at par with 60×15 cm. There was no discernible effect of the sowing method on the metrics of grain yield between ridge bed and raised bed sowing. However, both bed sowing methods significantly (p<0.05) improved the grain yield of maize (5.78 Mt/ha), compared to the farmer's practice in Parbat district. Therefore, this study suggested that farmers of Parbat can combine 60×20 cm plant spacing with bed sowing methods to maximize the production of maize.

Evaluation of sunflower germplasms for salt tolerance based on morpho-physiological and yield attributes

The effects of salinity on sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) germplasms growth, morpho-physiological traits and yield attributes among six varieties was studied to identify potential salt-tolerant sunflower varieties for cultivation in saline-prone areas of Bangladesh. For this, an experiment was conducted at Bangladesh Agricultural University in a net house from January 2019 to May 2019. Results showed that all varieties of sunflower exhibited significant (p<0.05) alterations to morphological characteristics aside from stem diameter under salt stress conditions. The physiological changes were also induced, except for one measure of photochemical efficiency. Notably, relative chlorophyll content, photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate, and total chlorophyll content shifted in a variety dependent manner. However, maximum photochemical efficiency did not statistically differ between varieties impacted by saline soils. Additionally, salt exposure impacted seed yield aspects such as filled and sterile seed counts per head, total seed weight per individual flower, and 1000-seed mass, with prominent variations among the tested varieties of sunflower. Therefore, out of the six varieties of sunflower evaluated in this assessment of salt tolerance, Hysun 33 was emerged as the most resilient to adverse impacts of salinity on growth and productivity of sunflower in salinity affected regions of Bangladesh.

Optimising weed control in sesame: insights into herbicide performance and crop productivity

Sesamum indicum L., a crucial oilseed crop in tropical and subtropical regions, is highly susceptible to weed competition during its early growth stages, leading to significant yield losses. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of various pre-emergence (PE) and early post-emergence (EPoE) herbicides in weed management under rainfed conditions. Field experiments were conducted in 2022 and 2023 using a randomised complete block design with thirteen treatments. Results indicated that the PE application of pendimethalin 30 % EC at 0.75 kg ha-1 effectively reduced weed density and dry weight, achieving a weed control efficiency of 73.5 % without phytotoxic effects on the crop. While metribuzin and diuron exhibited high weed control, their severe phytotoxicity rendered them unsuitable. Hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS demonstrated superior weed suppression but was less practical due to labour intensity. Pendimethalin-treated plots recorded significantly higher leaf area index, dry matter accumulation and nutrient uptake, leading to improved yield attributes. Seed yield losses were minimised by 74.6 % compared to the weedy check, with pendimethalin providing a high benefit-cost ratio of 2.92. Correlation analysis revealed a strong negative relationship between weed biomass and crop yield, highlighting the role of effective weed control in nutrient management. These findings underscore the potential of pendimethalin as a sustainable and economical herbicide for optimising sesame productivity.

Effect of Plant Growth Retardants on Yield and Yield Attributes of Kharif Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.)

The field experiment was conducted at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla, during kharif, 2024 to study the effect of plant growth retardants on yield and yield attributes of blackgram. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice with ten treatments viz., paclobutrazol @ 100, 150 and 200 ppm, chlormequat chloride @ 500, 1000 and 1500 ppm, mepiquat chloride @ 1000, 1500 and 2000 ppm and control i.e., water sprayed were applied through foliar spray at 35 DAS. The main aim of the study was to increase the yield and yield attributes of kharif blackgram by using growth retardants. Results of the experiment revealed that all the growth retardants increased the number of pod clusters plant-1 (25.3), number of pods plant-1 (51.9), pod weight (21.08 g plant-1), test weight (4.95 g) and seed yield (1448.74 kg ha-1) compared to control. The increased seed yield (69.3%) with mepiquat chloride @ 2000 ppm was due to increased sink strength parameters leads to more yield attributes over water sprayed plants.