Rhizome Yield Research Articles

Regulatory Effects of Chlormequat Chloride on the Yield and Chemical Composition of Angelica sinensis Radix

Chlormequat chloride (CCC), as a commonly used plant growth regulator in the production of rhizomatous medicinal herbs, can effectively control the bolting phenomenon in Angelica sinensis, significantly increasing the yield of underground rhizomes (medicinal part). However, its specific effects on the intrinsic quality of Angelica sinensis, especially medicinal components, require further investigation. The objective of this study is to conduct a thorough examination of CCC residue and its influence on the yield and medicinal components of Angelica sinensis. By spraying different concentrations of CCC on Angelica sinensis, we systematically monitored the final yield of Angelica sinensis Radix (ASR) in each treatment group and the residual concentration of CCC in ASR. Using UPLC-QTOF-MS technology, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the metabolic profile of ASR. Subsequently, UFLC-MS/MS was employed to accurately quantify the changes in the content of nine key active components in ASR. The results of this study indicate that the application of CCC significantly improves the yield of ASR, with the best effect observed at 0.1 g/L, resulting in a yield increase of 24.8%. Meanwhile, the residual amount of CCC in ASR is positively correlated with the application concentration, with the residual levels as high as 7.12 mg/kg in the high-concentration treatment group. Metabolomic analysis preliminarily identified 21 chemical components in ASR, including four organic acids and 13 phthalides. It is worth noting that the quantitative analysis results indicate significant changes in active components such as butylphthalide, Z-ligustilide, and ferulic acid after the application of CCC. Specifically, high-concentration CCC significantly increased the content of butylphthalide and levistolide A, while low-concentration CCC significantly promoted the accumulation of coniferyl ferulate and senkyunolide A, accompanied by a significant decrease in Z-ligustilide and ferulic acidy. In conclusion, while CCC use can increase yield, the associated increase in residues and imbalanced composition ratios may threaten the quality and safety of ASR. Therefore, it is crucial to control the amount of CCC used rationally to balance yield enhancement and quality assurance.

Comparative Study of Ginger Cultivars under Shading Conditions in a High Tunnel

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) is a valuable sciophyte crop used as a spice or fresh herb in culinary dishes and for treating medical issues such as osteoarthritis, neurological diseases, vomiting, and asthma. The demand for ginger in the United States is remarkably high; it is produced commercially and exclusively in Hawaii but can only meet ∼20% of US demand. Light for ginger growth may be more important than is often assumed, but the roles of light in ginger growth and rhizome yield are not fully understood. We hypothesized that artificial shade would produce the highest yielding ginger compared with no shade. This study evaluated the impact of different shading suited for ginger growth and rhizome yield of different cultivars grown in a high tunnel. There were three levels (0%, 22%, and 40%) of shade using RCBD design. We analyzed the overall yield (weight) of ginger and the specific yield (weight) of different rhizome parts (biological root, edible root, and seed ginger) per plant in addition to plant growth data. Data were analyzed for 2018 and 2019, and shade conditions influenced ginger growth and yield. There was no significant difference between shade conditions or cultivars, but general trends found that data differed between the two growing seasons. In 2018, Chinese White and Hawaii Yellow produced a better (higher) yield under 0% and 40% shade. However, in 2019, Chinese White and Hawaii Yellow produced the highest total yield under 22% shade, but Bubba Blue produced the highest overall yield at 0% shade.

An integrated targeted metabolome of phytohormones and transcriptomics analysis provides insight into the new generation of crops: Polygonatum kingianum var. grandifolium and Polygonatum kingianum.

Huangjing is becoming a new generation of crop. Polygonatum kingianum var. grandifolium (XHJ) is a variant of P. kingianum (DHJ), and they are treated as Huangjing. Unlike other Polygonatum species, the rhizome bud of XHJ can germinate both in spring and autumn, which contributes to its high rhizome yield. However, the molecular mechanism of the autumn shooting of XHJ was still unknown. In the present study, cellular observation, comparative targeted metabolome of phytohormones, and transcriptome analysis between XHJ and DHJ in autumn were conducted. Interestingly, 'Diterpenoid biosynthesis' (ko00904) and 'Plant hormone signal transduction' (ko04075) were commonly enriched by differentially accumulated phytohormones (DAPs) and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in all tissues, which indicated the high auxin content, low cytokinin (CTK) content, and low abscisic acid/gibberellin (ABA/GA) ratio might contribute to the XHJ rhizome buds' differentiation and germination in autumn. Moreover, according to the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WCGNA), transcript factors (TFs) related to auxin, CTK, GA, and jasmonic acid (JA) metabolism were screened, such as AP2/ERFs, WRKY, and NAC, which deserve further research. In conclusion, we comprehensively illustrated the mechanism of XHJ natural autumn shooting through cytological, metabolic, and transcriptomic analysis, which improves our understanding of the high yield of XHJ rhizomes and the diversity of shooting mechanisms in Polygonatum to lay the foundation for the further development of the Huangjing industry.

Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Bio Capsules: Enhancing Ginger Growth and Yield

The study aimed to assess the impact of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria capsules on the growth and yield of ginger. PGPRs known for their role in nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and hormone secretion. These PGPR’s tested at the Turmeric Research Station, Kammarpally across three consecutive years (2018-2021) in combination with three ginger varieties (Mahima, Maran, Local type) and five different treatments T1-POP + Trichoderma (Talc formulations) + GRB 35 (Talc formulations), T2- POP + Trichoderma capsules + GRB 35 capsule, T3- POP + Trichoderma capsules, T4- POP + GRB 35 capsule, T5- POP (Recommended package of practices). The treatment T4V1 (POP + GRB 35 capsule with Mahima variety), produced the highest fresh rhizome yield with 6.28 kg plot-1 and 21.53 t ha-1 followed by T4V2 (POP + GRB 35 capsule with Maran variety) at 6.16 kg plot-1 and 20.15 t ha-1. These results suggest that GRB 35 capsules significantly enhance ginger yield, offering a sustainable approach to ginger cultivation.

Micropropagation of three ginger cultivars and the subsequent growth and rhizome yield assessment and phytochemical composition analysis

Farmers have turned to biotechnology techniques to produce ginger, due to disease issues. Micropropagation is a proven and effective means for mass production of disease-free plants. Our research focused on ginger cultivar specific reactions (from culture initiation to rhizome harvest) to plant growth regulators (PGRs) to determine if plant response to PGRs is cultivar specific. Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) cultivars studied were: Chinese White (CW), Hawaii Yellow (HY), and Khing Yai (KY) under benzylaminopurine (BA) versus kinetin (KT) treatments using MS basal medium to micropropagate ginger seedlings and subsequent growth and yield performance and phytochemical composition analysis. In vitro culture data were collected every month for number of buds and shoots (and shoot length) produced per initiating bud and shoot growth. Mature seedlings were subsequently transplanted in a greenhouse with a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 4 replications, 18 plants per replication (Main Plot = Cultivar, Sub Plot = PGR) for a total of 72 pots/plants. Growth data included number of stems per seedling, stem length, and stem diameter. Rhizome yield data included number of pieces of rhizome per seedling, and rhizome weights (biological, edible, and total rhizome weights respectively). Phytochemical composition analysis of ginger rhizome/PGR treatment included average amount of 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 6-shogoal, 8-shogoal, and 10-shogoal. Data was analyzed using SAS OnDemand for Academics with PROC GLM at α=0.05 level of significance. As ginger tissue culture seedlings progressed in culture, KT was more suitable for multiplication of buds, BA more suitable for proliferation of shoots, and KT matured ginger tissue culture seedlings at a higher rate than BA. CW had the highest rhizome yield and least amount of biological roots in comparison to other cultivars. CW produced the least amount of 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 8-shogoal and 10-shogoal of all three cultivars and with no significant change between two PGR treatments. In comparison, HY produced the highest amount of 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol, 10-gingerol, 6-shogoal, and 8-shogoal, followed by KY and CW, when micropropagated with BA. KY produced the highest amount of 10-shogoal when micropropagated with BA and the highest amount of 6-gingerol, 6-shogoal, 8-shogoal, and 10-shogoal when micropropagated with KT.

EVALUATING GENETIC DIVERSITY IN PAKISTANI TURMERIC SELECTIONS THROUGH ANALYSIS OF CURCUMIN CONTENT, VEGETATIVE CHARACTERISTICS, AND RHIZOME YIELD TRAITS IN FAISALABAD, PAKISTAN

EVALUATING GENETIC DIVERSITY IN PAKISTANI TURMERIC SELECTIONS THROUGH ANALYSIS OF CURCUMIN CONTENT, VEGETATIVE CHARACTERISTICS, AND RHIZOME YIELD TRAITS IN FAISALABAD, PAKISTAN Turmeric (Curcuma longa), a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is a spice plant that has long been recognized for its medicinal properties. There is high genetic variation exists within the species of Curcuma longa, even though it is clonally propagated. The overall genetic diversity in Curcuma longa may be due to its population distribution in areas of diverse ecological conditions in Pakistan. Present study was performed to evaluate different turmeric selections, which were collected from five different locations viz., S1 from Institute of Horticultural Sciences (IHS), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), Pakistan, S2 and S3 from Faisalabad (Jaranwala and Kanjwani, respectively) and S4 and S5 from Kasur (Tirath and Hussain Khan Wala, respectively), Punjab, Pakistan. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and each treatment was replicated thrice. Among the selections, selection S5 (Hussain Khan Wala) performed best for growth and yield traits, i.e. plant height (79.6 cm), number of tillers per plant (3.4), number of leaves per plant (17.7), leaf length (37.7 cm), leaf width (12.3 cm), stem diameter (16.1 mm), number of primary rhizomes per plant (6.3), number of secondary rhizomes per plant (11.1), total number of rhizomes per plant (18.4), weight of primary rhizomes (95.3 g per plant), weight of secondary rhizomes (94.3 g per plant), yield (213.1 g per plant), rhizome length (52.7 mm) and rhizome diameter (22.8 mm). However, curcumin content (0.79%), total dry matter (45.8%), moisture content (58.1%) and total soluble solids (12.0 oBrix) were highest in selections S2 (Jaranwala), S4 (Tirath), S1 (IHS, UAF) and S2 (Jaranwala), respectively. Therefore, it is recommended that turmeric selection S5 (Hussain Khan Wala) may be cultivated for higher yield, while S2 selection (Jaranwala) is for highest curcumin production.

Evaluation of the Different Varieties of Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) in Prayagraj Agro Climatic Conditions, Uttar Pradesh

Lotus, an aquatic perennial flowering plant, holds significant economic and medicinal value. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) commonly known as sacred lotus, have significant medical value due to its wide range of bioactive compounds. This study, conducted in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, evaluates the performance of six lotus varieties under local agro-climatic conditions. The Lotus varieties under investigation–Yellow Peony, Pastel Pink, Bucha, Rani Red, White Budhha and Pink cloud exhibited significant variations across all observed parameters. The research focuses on various characteristics of Lotus, including growth parameters, floral parameters, quality parameters, yield parameters and economy of the cultivation, to determine the most suitable variety for cultivation in similar climatic conditions. The variety V3: Bucha demonstrated superior performance in terms of plant height (41.31 cm), leaf length (14.94 cm), leaf width (19.68 cm), flower diameter (16.28 cm), total numbers of flowers per plant (38.13), total number of flowers per hectare (1,525,000), yield of rhizome per plant (1.74 kg), and yield of rhizome per hectare (69.73 tonnes). Additionally, V6: Pink Cloud reported longest vase-life (6.25 days), followed by V3: Bucha (5. 75 days). The variety V3: Bucha also achieved the highest gross return (4,444,500 Rs .ha-1), net return (3,437,050 Rs .ha-1), and benefit – cost ratio (4.41). Based on the findings, V3: Bucha is recommended for cultivation in the agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Sustainable Methods for Growing Turmeric: Evaluating the Effects of Synthetic and Organic Fertilizers on vegetative and reproductive attributes

This study aimed to assess the influence of various bio-fertilizer sources on turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) cultivation in Eastern Nepal. The research was conducted at G.P Koirala College of Agriculture and Research Centre, Sundarharaicha, Morang, Nepal, from April 2023 to January 2024. The experiment utilized a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with seven treatments including T1: Recommended dose (RD) of NPK, T2: Goat manure, T3: Organic manure, T4: Poultry manure, T5: Vermicompost, T6: Farmyard manure, T7: Control, replicated three times. Turmeric cultivation practices were implemented following standard agronomic procedures. The recommended dose of synthetic fertilizer, NPK, exhibited the highest enhancement across multiple vegetative and reproductive growth parameters of turmeric, with notable increases in plant height, leaf number, tillers per plant, primary and secondary fingers per clump, fresh rhizome yield, dry yield, and dry recovery percentage. Among the organic sources, goat manure and poultry manure also showed promising results in enhancing turmeric yield and quality. Specifically, NPK recorded the highest fresh rhizome yield at 21.30 tons/ha, while goat manure and poultry manure yielded 20.35 tons/ha and 18.69 tons/ha, respectively. In contrast, the lowest fresh rhizome yield was observed in the control group, indicating minimal enhancement in yield without fertilizer supplementation. The results highlight how organic farming methods may be a good substitute for traditional chemical fertilizers in the context of sustainable turmeric production.

Impact of Front Line Demonstrations on Yield Enhancement of Ginger (var. Nadia) Raised Single Node Seedlings through Pro Tray Technology in Tribal Area of Alluri Sitaramraju District of Andhra Pradesh, India

To overcome the problems of high seed usage due to the high cost of seed material and rhizome rot disease in ginger in tribal agency areas of ASR district. Hence, the ICAR-ANGRAU, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kondempudi conducted Front Line Demonstrations (FLD) in five selected villages, namely Paderu, Peddabayalu, Hukumpeta, Dumbriguda, and Araku mandals of Alluri Sitaramraju district (ASR) of Andhra Pradesh, for three years (2019–20, 2020–21, and 2021-22). The purpose of the FLD was to showcase the superior performance of single node raised seedlings of the ginger variety Nadia raised through portray technology compared to the normal farmer practice variety Nadia. The single-node ginger (Var.Nadia) seedlings cultivated using technological demonstration of yield and economic analysis in contrast to farmers' practices 50 farmers participated actively in the FLD, which covered 20.5 acres. In terms of production, pooled fresh rhizome yields of 139.57 and 120.02 q/ha, respectively, showed that single-node grown seedlings of ginger var. Nadia raised by modern technology were superior over farmer practice. Single-node ginger (var. Nadia) seedlings grown by this technique exhibited an upsurge in fresh rhizome output from 10.28 to 20.39 percent over the course of the demonstration years. Average cost-benefit ratios for the three years for demonstration plots and farmer practice were 1:3.18, 1:3.26, and 1:3.61, and 1:2.09, 1:2.08, and 1:2.01, respectively. The extension gap of three years (2019–20, 2020–21, and 2021–22) was 27.71, 16.1, and 14.84 q/ha in demonstration plots, respectively. Results on the Technology Index ranged between 12.07 to 6.62% and 20.78 to 5.17% for single-node ginger (var.Nadia) seedlings raised through pro tray technology and farmers’ practices, respectively. All three years of study revealed that for single-node ginger (var.Nadia) seedlings raised through portray technology, there is much significance and scope for up scaling the demonstrated technology in tribal agency areas of Alluri Sitaramraj district, Andhra Pradesh.

Impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa)

An experiment was conducted during 2011–12 at Arabhavi, Karnataka, to study the impact of bio-inoculants and bio-formulations on growth and yield of ‘Salem’ cultivar of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.). Turmeric cv. ‘Salem’ showed better response to combined application of inorganic fertilizers, bio-inoculants and bio-formulations than other treatments used in the study. Combined application of recommended dose of fertilizer [(RDF), FYM @ 25 t/ha and N:P:K @ 180:90:90 kg/ha) + VA-Mycorrhiza (VAM) + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani resulted in higher fresh rhizome yield and growth parameters, viz. plant height, pseudostem diameter, leaf area and leaf-area index, which was at par with the treatment, RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum. Similarly, the highest benefit: cost ratio of 4.87 was obtained with the application of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani compared to the other treatments. Hence planting of turmeric rhizome with combination of RDF + VAM + Trichoderma harzianum + Panchagavya + Amrit pani was profitable under northern dry zone of Karnataka.

Effect of Different Shading Color on Growth and Yield Performance of (Black Ginger) Kaempferia parviflora Wall. ex Baker

A study was conducted to investigate the impact of different shading colors on the growth and yield performance of (black ginger) Kaempferia parviflora Wall. ex Baker. The experiment was conducted in a glasshouse at MARDI Jerangau, Terengganu, from September 2022 to May 2023. The experiment followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The shade treatments consisted of non-shade (T1), green shade (T2), yellow shade (T3), and red shade (T4). The results revealed that the application of colored shading significantly enhanced both the growth and yield of K. parviflora. Notably, the growth performance at the 5-month after planting (MAP) stage was crucial for rhizome yield, with any decrease in plant height potentially leading to diminished rhizome weight measurements. Among the shading colors, green shade emerged as the most effective, boosting total rhizome weight compared to non-shaded conditions. Correlation analysis between yield components demonstrated a strong positive relationship between rhizome length and rhizome weight (0.894), followed by rhizome weight and root weight (0.835). In conclusion, the study highlights the beneficial effects of colored shading on the yield components of K. parviflora, emphasizing the potential for optimized cultivation practices to enhance crop productivity.

Plant growth-promoting and biocontrol traits of endophytic Bacillus licheniformis against soft rot causing Pythium myriotylum in ginger plant.

Bacterial endophytes from plants harbor diverse metabolites that play major roles in biocontrol and improve plant growth. In this study, a total of 12 endophytic bacteria were isolated from the ginger rhizome. The strain K3 was highly effective in preventing mycelia growth of Pythium myriotylum (78.5 ± 1.5% inhibition) in dual culture. The cell-free extract (2.5%) of endophyte K3 inhibited 76.3 ± 4.8% mycelia growth, and 92.4 ± 4.2% inhibition was observed at a 5% sample concentration. The secondary metabolites produced by Bacillus licheniformis K3 showed maximum activity against Pseudomonas syringae (24 ± 1 mm zone of inhibition) and Xanthomonas campestris (28 ± 3 mm zone of inhibition). The strain K3 produced 28.3 ± 1.7 IU mL-1 protease, 28.3 ± 1.7 IU mL-1 cellulase, and 2.04 ± 0.13 IU mL-1 chitinase, respectively. The ginger rhizome treated with K3 in the greenhouse registered 53.8 ± 1.4% soft rot incidence, and the streptomycin-treated pot registered 78.3 ± 1.7% disease incidence. The selected endophyte K3 improved ascorbate peroxidase (1.37 ± 0.009 µmole ASC min-1 mg-1 protein), catalase (8.7 ± 0.28 µmole min-1 mg-1 protein), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (26.2 ± 0.99 Umg-1) in the greenhouse. In addition, K3 treatment in the field trial improved rhizome yield (730 ± 18.4 g) after 180 days (p < 0.01). The shoot length was 46 ± 8.3 cm in K3-treated plants, and it was about 31% higher than the control treatment (p < 0.01). The lytic enzyme-producing and growth-promoting endophyte is useful in sustainable crop production through the management of biotic stress.

Effect of planting material and pre-planting storage method on rhizome sprouting, crop stand, and seed rhizome yield of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) at Teppi, Southwestern Ethiopia

A two-year study experiment was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022 at the Teppi Agricultural Research Center (TARC) with the aim of identifying suitable planting material and an appropriate pre-planting storage method that can enhance turmeric seed quality and yield under rain-fed conditions. The experiment consisted of three planting materials (mother rhizomes, finger rhizomes, and mixed rhizomes) and five pre-planting storage methods (cemented floor, under tree shade, raised mesh-wired bed, pit with grass cover, and pit with soil cover). These factors were factorially arranged using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results from the analysis of variance revealed that the seed quality, growth, and seed rhizome yield of turmeric were significantly (p&lt;0.05) influenced by the main effect of both planting material and storage method. However, their interaction effect did not significantly affect these attributes (p&gt;0.05). The highest clean and sprouted seed rhizomes, as well as total sprouts, were recorded in mother seed rhizomes and seed rhizomes stored under tree shade. Conversely, storing mother seed rhizomes on cemented floors resulted in the highest seed weight losses. Finger seed rhizomes stored in soil-covered pits produced the highest percentages of non-sprouted and decayed seed rhizomes. Regarding growth attributes, mother seed rhizomes led to the highest plant stands, plant height, stem girth, leaf growth, and tiller number. Storing seed rhizomes under tree shade performed the best across these growth attributes. Turmeric plants grown from mother seed rhizomes yielded a higher number of mother and finger rhizomes per plant and the highest fresh rhizome yield. Likewise, storing seed rhizomes under tree shade resulted in the highest fresh rhizome yield. In general, utilizing mother seed rhizomes and storing them under tree shade improved turmeric seed quality, growth, and seed rhizome yield. Therefore, farmers in the area are recommended to adopt these practices, but further research is needed to assess their economic feasibility.

Drip irrigation on productivity, water use efficiency and profitability of turmeric (Curcuma longa) grown under mulched and non-mulched conditions

Turmeric cultivation primarily thrives in India, with significant presence in Bangladesh, Thailand, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia. India leads globally in both area (0.19 Mha) and production (0.844 MT) of turmeric. Despite this, there's a recognized gap in research regarding the combined effects of mulching and drip fertigation on turmeric growth in Tamil Nadu conditions. Therefore, this study aims to assess how mulching and drip fertigation impact water usage, turmeric growth, productivity, and post-harvest soil health via field experiments. The treatments comprise of different mulching techniques (M1-25 μm Plastic Mulching, M2-50 μm Plastic Mulching, M3- Organic Mulching, M4-No Mulching) as the main plot, coupled with various irrigation regimes as the sub plot (S1-100% of pan evaporation, S2- 80% of pan evaporation, S3- 60% of pan evaporation), in a split plot design. Findings show that 50-μm Plastic Mulching (M2) notably enhances turmeric growth parameters, including plant height, biomass, leaf count, and yield attributes such as tillers and rhizomes, compared to no mulch. Significantly, when 80% of pan evaporation is utilized in drip irrigation, it showcases the most pronounced plant growth and yield characteristics, with plastic mulch at this level significantly improving water and nutrient use efficiency while increasing beneficial compounds like Curcumin and oleoresin. The highest fresh rhizome yield is observed with 50-μm plastic mulch and 80% pan evaporation (M2S2), displaying a 39.79% increase compared to the control. Additionally, the study notes effects on microbial populations and mulch degradation. Economically, M2S2 exhibits the highest profitability with a benefit-cost ratio of 3.23 compared to other treatments. Implementing these practices not only enhances yields but also conserves water (estimated at 9.15 mm3) while emphasizing the importance of drip irrigation, fertilizer application, and mulching in boosting turmeric productivity, optimizing resource efficiency, and ensuring economic and environmental sustainability.

Effect of planting material and pre-planting storage method on rhizome sprouting, crop stand, and seed rhizome yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) at Teppi, Southwestern Ethiopia

A two-year study experiment was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022 at the Teppi Agricultural Research Center (TARC) with the aim of identifying suitable planting material and an appropriate pre-planting storage method that can enhance turmeric seed quality and yield under rain-fed conditions. The experiment consisted of three planting materials (mother rhizomes, finger rhizomes, and mixed rhizomes) and five pre-planting storage methods (cemented floor, under tree shade, raised mesh-wired bed, pit with grass cover, and pit with soil cover). These factors were factorially arranged using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results from the analysis of variance revealed that the seed quality, growth, and seed rhizome yield of turmeric were significantly (p&lt;0.05) influenced by the main effect of both planting material and storage method. However, their interaction did not significantly affect these attributes (p&gt;0.05). The highest clean and sprouted seed rhizomes, as well as total sprouts, were recorded in mother seed rhizomes and seed rhizomes stored under tree shade. Conversely, storing mother seed rhizomes on cemented floors resulted in the highest seed weight losses. Finger seed rhizomes stored in soil-covered pits produced the highest percentages of non-sprouted and decayed seed rhizomes. Regarding growth attributes, mother seed rhizomes led to the highest plant stands, plant height, stem girth, leaf growth, and tiller number. Storing seed rhizomes under tree shade performed the best across these growth attributes. Turmeric plants grown from mother seed rhizomes yielded a higher number of mother and finger rhizomes per plant and the highest fresh rhizome yield. Likewise, storing seed rhizomes under tree shade resulted in the highest fresh rhizome yield. In general, utilizing mother seed rhizomes and storing them under tree shade improved turmeric seed quality, growth, and seed rhizome yield. Therefore, farmers in the area are recommended to adopt these practices, but further research is needed to assess their economic feasibility.

Effect of integrated use of Zircon and Siliplant on productivity of &lt;i&gt;Echinacea purpurea&lt;/i&gt; roots in Western Caucasus

Echinacea purpurea L. – is a perennial medicinal plant, from the herb of which dozens of preparations have been created that are used to strengthen the immune system, in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. At present, oxyconic acids and alkamides have been found in the plant’s root system, and the preparations «Anginol» and «Prostanov» have been created on their basis. The production and creation of new medicinal products from the roots and rhizomes of the Echinacea purpurea depends on a stable raw material base, which can be ensured by obtaining maximum yields of roots. As a result of studies to determine the timing of harvesting, methods to increase the yield of the underground mass in the conditions of the Krasnodar Territory, it was revealed that the high yield of roots and rhizomes of Echinacea purpurea was determined on plantations III-IV years of growing, which averaged 10 c/ha, they had an oxyconic acid content of 3,9%. In the future, there is a decrease in yield to 8 c/ha, and active substances to 2.1%. Dual treatments treatments Zircon (0.04 l/ha) and Siliplant (0.5 l/ha) both separately and in the mixture gave the opportunity to increase the yield for III and IV years to 28–30% and improve the quality of raw materials, the content of active substances increased by 5–7%. The complex use of these drugs in the V year of vegetation allows to increase the yield of roots to 10.3 c/ha with a high content of oxidic acids – 2.55%. It was revealed that foliar fertilization of vegetative plants with two-component system Siliplant + Zircon promotes the adaptation of Echinacea purpurea to dry weather conditions and makes it possible to obtain stable yields of medicinal raw materials with high quality regardless of weather conditions.

Effect of &lt;i&gt;Dactyladenia barteri&lt;/i&gt; mulch and NPK fertilizer on weed density, ginger production and soil recapitalization in Umudike, Southeast Nigeria

A field study conducted on a Gleyic Luvisol in Umudike, southeastern Nigeria, in 2017 and 2018 evaluated the effect of Dactyladenia barteri mulch and NPK fertilizer 15:15:15 on weed density, ginger production and soil health. Treatment consisted of three levels of mulch (0, 2 and 4 t ha–1) and two levels of NPK fertilizer (0.00 and 400 kg ha−1) laid in a randomized complete block design with 3 replicates on 2 x 2 m plots, using 0.20 x 0.20 m spacing. Planting was done in May each year and harvested eight months after planting. Results showed that control plot had 187.80 higher significant weed density than 2 and 4 t ha–1 mulch (88.20 and 81.80), respectively. Fertilizer had no significant effect on weed density. Ginger survival at 2.00 and 4.00 t ha–1 mulch (94.40 and 96%) differed significantly from the control plot (42.20%). Number of tillers in mulched plots (t ha–1) followed the order: 4 &gt; 2 &gt; 0 in both years. Fertilizer rate at 400 kg ha–1 gave higher significant rhizome yield more than 0 kg ha–1 in both years. Mulch at 4 t ha–1 increased soil pH by 12% relative to 7.94% increase by NPK fertilizer. Total N, available P and exchangeable K were increased by 12.30, 64.30 and 14.30% respectively, by mulch at 4 t ha–1, while NPK fertilizer increased total N, available P and exchangeable K by 5.60, 31.40 and 9.38%, respectively. It was concluded that application of Dactyladenia barteri mulch and NPK fertilizer reduced weed density, improved ginger production and recapitalized soil in Umudike, southeastern, Nigeria.

Study on the genetic variability and adaptability of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) genotypes for development of desirable cultivars.

Turmeric, a globally cultivated spice, holds significance in medicine, and cosmetics, and is also a very popular ingredient in South Asian cuisine. A study involving 53 turmeric genotypes evaluated for rhizome yield and related traits at Spices Research Center, Bogura, Bangladesh over three years (2019-22). A randomized complete block design was followed with two replications. ANOVA revealed significant trait variations among genotypes. Genotype T0015 emerged as the highest yielder at 28.04 t/ha. High heritability (0.58-0.99) and genetic advance characterized plant height (PH), mother rhizome weight (WMR), primary and secondary finger weights (WPF and WSF), and yield per plant (YPP) across seasons. Genetic gain (GG) was prominent in these traits. Genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variations (GCV and PCV) (6.24-89.46 and 8.18-90.88, respectively) across three years highlighted mother rhizome weight's importance followed by numbers of primary finger (NPF), and WPF. Positive and significant correlations, especially with PH, WMR, WPF, and YPP, emphasized their relevance to fresh yield (FY). Multiple linear regression identified PH, number of mother rhizome (NMR) and WMR as key contributors, explaining 37-79% of FY variability. Cluster analysis grouped genotypes into five clusters with maximum distance observed between clusters II and III. The geometric adaptability index (GAI) assessed adaptability and superiority, revealing nine genotypes outperforming the best existing cultivar. Genotype T0117 as the top performer based on GAI, followed by T0103 and T0094. Mean rank analysis favoured T0121 as the best performer, succeeded by T0117, T0082 and T0106. The top ten genotypes (T0015, T0061, T0082, T0085, T0094, T0103, T0106, T0117, T0121 and T0129) were identified as superior based on yield and overall ranking, warranting further evaluation. These findings may induce a window for improving turmeric research and ultimately play a role in enhancing its cultivation and productivity.

Evaluation of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) Germplasms for Growth and Yield Attributes in the New Alluvial Zone of West Bengal

An experiment was conducted to assess the growth and yield attributes of ginger germplasm at Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during 2019–20 and 2020–21. The experiment was designed in Randomized Block Design with 3 replications. A total of 18 treatments, comprising 15 germplasms and 3 varieties were evaluated. The results of the study revealed that Gorubathan has recorded maximum plant height, number of leaves per tiller, pseudostem girth, and dry yield. Surabhi recorded maximum leaf length, number of tillers per clump, leaf area, leaf area index, number of fingers per clump, number of primary fingers per clump, number of secondary fingers per clump, clump length, rhizome yield per clump, rhizome yield per plot and projected fresh rhizome yield, which was statistically at par with Hui local for rhizome yield per clump, yield per plot and projected rhizome yield, whereas maximum leaf breadth and finger diameter were recorded in genotype Hui Local. The maximum clump breadth was recorded in Thingpuidum Local and the highest finger length was found in Banada Local. In conclusion, the study suggests that var Surabhi, Gorubathan, Nadia and cv Hui Local, Thinglaidum, Thingpuri and Banada Local are found to be promising in terms of growth and yield attributes in new alluvial zone of West Bengal.

Application of Chitin Improves Growth, Yield and Secondary Metabolite Production in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

A field experiment was conducted in Trivandrum district during June 2021 to January 2022 to evaluate the effect of chitin on growth, yield and secondary metabolite production in turmeric. Soil application of chitin at 5 g per plant was done at 60 and 180 days after transplanting, while untreated plants served as control. Observations were recorded on effect of chitin on growth, defense enzymes, yield, secondary metabolites and disease incidence. Results of the study confirmed significant enhancement in growth, yield and secondary metabolite production on chitin application compared to the untreated control. Significant increase in shoot weight and rhizome weight was observed at six months after transplanting in response to chitin application. Fresh and dry rhizome yield per plant increased by 60.16% and 65.97% respectively, over the control. The defense enzyme activity and chlorophyll content were significantly higher in plants subjected to chitin application, compared to the control. Chitin treatment enhanced volatile oil and oleoresin content by 1.39 and 1.41 times and curcumin content by 21%, over the control. The results confirmed that chitin is a potent biostimulant that can be used for growth, yield and quality enhancement in turmeric.