Yield Related Parameters Research Articles

Impact of foliar application of phyllosphere yeast strains combined with soil fertilizer application on rice growth and yield

BackgroundThe application of beneficial microbes in agriculture is gaining increasing attention as a means to reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers. This approach can potentially mitigate negative impacts on soil, animal, and human health, as well as decrease climate-changing factors. Among these microbes, yeast has been the least explored, particularly within the phyllosphere compartment. This study addresses this knowledge gap by investigating the potential of phyllosphere yeast to improve rice yield while reducing fertilizer dosage.ResultsFrom fifty-two rice yeast phyllosphere isolates, we identified three yeast strains—Rhodotorula paludigena Y1, Pseudozyma sp. Y71, and Cryptococcus sp. Y72—that could thrive at 36 °C and possessed significant multifarious plant growth-promoting traits, enhancing rice root and shoot length upon seed inoculation. These three strains demonstrated favorable compatibility, leading to the creation of a yeast consortium. We assessed the combined effect of foliar application of this yeast consortium and individual strains with two distinct recommended doses of chemical fertilizers (RDCFs) (75 and 100%), as well as RDCFs alone (75 and 100%), in rice maintained in pot-culture and field experiments. The pot-culture experiment investigated the leaf microbial community, plant biochemicals, root and shoot length during the stem elongation, flowering, and dough phases, and yield-related parameters at harvest. The field experiment determined the actual yield. Integrated results from both experiments revealed that the yeast consortium with 75% RDCFs was more effective than the yeast consortium with 100% RDCFs, single strain applications with RDCFs (75 and 100%), and RDCFs alone (75 and 100%). Additionally, this treatment improved leaf metabolite levels compared to control rice plants.ConclusionsOverall, a 25% reduction in soil chemical fertilizers combined with yeast consortium foliar application improved rice growth, biochemicals, and yield. This study also advances the field of phyllosphere yeast research in agriculture.

Enhancing Indigenous Cropping Systems under Climate Change: A Case Study of Maize (Zea mays L.) and Groundnut (Arachis hypogea) in Northern Ghana

Due to the continuous cropping of maize and groundnuts on the same land in northern Ghana for livelihood, production yields have declined significantly below potential levels. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ecological limitations affecting maize and groundnut productivity in northern Ghana and also to analyze the socioeconomic constraints impacting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Five cropping systems (viz. sole continuous maize (SCM), sole continuous groundnut (SCG), maize-groundnut intercrop (MGI), groundnut/maize rotation (GMR) and maize/groundnut rotation (MGR)), each with or without fertilizer were established under RCBD at Nyankpala during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons. For the fertilized rotation treatments, the maize crop received 60-N, 40-P2O5, and 40-K2O, kg/ha, while the groundnut crop received 20-N, 40-P2O5, and 40-K2O, kg/ha using NPK 11, 22, 21, kg/ha with trace elements S, Zn and B. The cropping systems were characterised on grain yields, yield related parameters, resource use and economic returns on investments. The results showed that intercrop and rotation treatments gave better yields. Their land equivalent ratios (LER) were 1.2 and 1.09 respectively, in the two seasons. Maize grain yield under the rotation increased from 2.5 to 3.8 t/ha while groundnut pod yield increased from 0.6 to 0.9 t/ha. The system with highest economic returns was recorded for the rotation systems either with or without fertilizer application. To improve livelihoods and productivity, smallholder farmers in northern Ghana should adopt intercrop and rotation systems, incorporate fertilizer application, and consider soil fertility management practices. Policy support and extension services can facilitate the adoption of these sustainable agricultural practices.

Unleashing the synergistic effect of promising fungicides: a breakthrough solution for combating powdery mildew in pea plants.

Pea powdery mildew, caused by Erysiphe pisi, is a major limitation to global pea production. The emergence of fungicide-resistant pathogen populations due to frequent and injudicious pesticide application highlights the importance of exploring the synergistic properties of fungicide combinations. This study investigated the efficacy of difenoconazole, thiophanate-methyl, and sulfur, both individually and in mixtures, against powdery mildew and assessed the interaction types between these fungicides. The results demonstrated that the combination of difenoconazole, thiophanate-methyl, and sulfur was the most effective in reducing, reducing disease severity to 6.10% and minimizing conidial production on foliage. Additionally, this fungicide combination reduced conidial germination by 89.26% in vitro and by 87.50% in a detached leaf assay compared to the control. The treatment also positively impacted leaf chlorophyll content (55.18), green pod yield (22.21 tons ha-1), seed yield (12.29 tons ha-1), and other yield-related parameters. Although statistically significant, this ternary fungicide combination was closely followed by the binary combination of thiophanate-methyl and sulfur, which was the only combination exhibiting synergism in both laboratory and field trials with a synergy factor (SF) > 1. In conclusion, this approach offers improved disease control as part of integrated disease management (IDM) while minimizing the risk of resistant pathogen strains.

Nodule Associated Plant Probiotics on Seed Quality of Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) under Ambient Storage Condition

Background: India is the leading producer and importer of pulses in the world. Post-harvest storage loss ranging from 5-10% which is very high in India. This situation demands the development of storage guidelines for pulses to prevent the storage losses without deterioration. The liquid-based formulations of nodule associated plant probiotics are known for increasing the plant growth and yield related parameters in field conditions. The present study was undertaken to assess the effect of seed treatment of liquid based formulation of NAPP to maintain seed viability, vigour during storage period and also to assess the shelf life of the formulation. Methods: Population of nodule associated plant probiotics spore count was assessed in stored seeds at bimonthly intervals, SEM analysis was taken to confirm the presence of probiotics initially and effect of NAPP on seed quality during storage period was assessed. Result: The results revealed that (T3) seeds coated with microbial consortia (NAPP) of Rhizobium sp VRE1 + Candida tropicalis VYW1+ Paenibacillus taichungensis TNEB6+ AMF have recorded maximum germination (71%), germination energy (7.2) and seedling vigour index (1690). Also, coated seeds recorded highest protein content, antioxidant enzymes and lowest level of EC, free amino acids compared to control seeds after 12 months of storage under ambient condition. Microbial population was maintained at 3.2 log cfu/g of coated seeds when compared to 1.0 log cfu/g of primed seeds after one year of storage.

Unveiling the genetic variability, character association and principal component analysis for yield and yield contributing traits in brinjal (Solanum melongena) genotypes

The experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) seasons of 2023 and 2024 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu to assess 45 brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) genotypes for growth and yield related parameters. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The result showed high genotypic coefficient of variance (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variance (PCV) values for plant height, number of primary branches/plant, length of fruit and weight of fruit and yield/plant. Whereas, the traits such as days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, fruit girth, fruit borer infestation and number of fruits/ plant exhibited medium GCV and PCV values. The registered high heritability values ranged from 94.29–99.49% and genetic advance as a percentage of the mean ranged from 19.25–70.25%. Correlation analysis on number of fruits/ plant showed positive and significant association with fruit yield/plant. Principal component analysis showed four principal components with eigen values of unity and accounted for 75.81% of total variance.

Mitigation of salinity stress on morpho-physiological and yield related parameters of rice using different organic amendments

Salinity is a pernicious abiotic element that hinders crop development. Utilizing organic amendments to remediate salt is crucial for enhancing soil function and promoting crop growth. Based on this, a pot experiment was carried out at the research field of Khulna Agricultural University, Khulna, to examine the physiology, growth, and yield of transplanted aman rice in response to salinity stress using duckweed, and dhaincha biomass supplement. Excess salinity with no organic amendments reduced plant growth and development, relative water content (26%), and membrane stability (28%), index compared to T1 S1 (duckweed), and T2 S1 (dhaincha) at 50 mM salinity. Salinity delayed the emergence of first flowering and the maturity of filled grains. The lowest grain yield was recorded in T0S3 (no treatment + 100 mM salinity). Application of dhaincha and duckweed biomass ameliorates salinity individually at all salinity levels. Rice grown in saline soil with the application of T1 (duckweed biomass) and T2 (Sesbania biomass) had an 87% spikelet fertility while rice grown in soil without T1 and T2 treatment had only 21.82%. The application of T2 and T1 @ 5 t ha-1 increased grain yield by 33.29% and 4.70% compared to control. Furthermore, salinity stress @100 mM NaCl with duckweed decreased grain yield by 0.05% which was minimized to 12% by applying dhaincha green manure (T2) @ 5 t ha1. The finding showed that the ameliorative impact of green manure at 5 tha1 dose (T2) was more effective compared to the duckweed (T1) at the three salinity levels used in the study.

Influence of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizers Applications for Tomato (<i>Solanum lycopersicum </i>L.) Production Under Irrigation in the Fogera District, Northwest Ethiopia

Small-scale tomato production under irrigation is a common practice in the Fogera area of the Amhara Region in Northwest Ethiopia. However, there were no location-specific economic optimum N and P fertilizer recommendations for tomato production in the area. Therefore, a field study was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to investigate the response of tomato to N and P fertilizer applications and determine the economic return of N and P fertilizers applications. Four levels of N (0, 46, 92, and 138 kg N ha<sup>-1</sup>) and three levels of P (0, 46, and 92 kg P<sub>2</sub>O<sub>5</sub> ha<sup>-1</sup>) were factorially combined and laid in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that tomato yield and yield-related attributes were significantly (p<0.01) affected by the main effects of N. However, the main effect of P and its interaction with N did not considerably influence the yield and yield-related parameters. The highest marketable (39.3 t ha<sup>-1</sup>) and total fruit yields (46.2 t ha<sup>-1</sup>) of tomato were recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha<sup>-1</sup>. The highest net economic return of Ethiopian birr 185,538.50 with a marginal rate return of 1326.1% was recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha<sup>-1</sup>. Therefore, 138 kg ha<sup>-1</sup> N can be recommended to increase the yield and economic return of tomato production in Fogera area. However, as the yield response to N followed a linear response curve, further study with higher rates of N than those considered in the present study is recommended.

DETERMINING THE ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN CROP PHENOLOGY, GROWTH, YIELD, AND YIELD-RELATED PARAMETERS OF MALT BARLEY (HORDEUM VULGARE)

The study was conducted at two locations, namely Holeta and Kulumsa Agricultural research centers of Ethiopia, for 2 consecutive years from 2019 to 2021 main cropping seasons. The objective of the experiment was to determine the association between crop phenology, growth, yield, and yield-related parameters. One variety of newly harvested pre-basic seed class of malt barley variety, namely IBON 174/03, was used for the experiment. Total number of treatment combinations was eighteen. The treatments were laid out in a randomized complete block design in two factorial arrangements with three replications. The factors are five deterioration/aging days 0 (control/un-aged), 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days and three seeding rates (75, 100, and 125 kg/ha). Before artificial deterioration, the seed moisture content for all treatments was 12.5%. Seeds were subjected to artificial deterioration treatments and placed in an incubator at 42°C for 0 (control), 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days at approximately 100% relative humidity. The result revealed that above-ground dry biomass (AGDBM) and grain yield (GYLD) per hectare were significantly affected both by deterioration days and seed rate. As deterioration day increased the mean value for AGDBM and GYLD per hectare was significantly reduced and as the seeding rate increased from 75 to 125 kg/ha AGDBM and GYLD per hectare increased by 30.53% and 21.01%, respectively. The main effect of deterioration days showed a significant difference (p<0.05) for spike length (SL) as deterioration days increased from 2 to 10 days SL was reduced by 7.7–22.62% as compared to un-aged treatment but, the percentage reduction for barley seed deteriorated for 6 and 10 days recorded similar value which is 22.62% as compared to un-aged treatment. Seed per spike and thousand kernels weight were influenced by the main effect of seed rate but, not by deterioration days. As the seeding rate increased from 75 to 125 kg/ha, number of seeds per spike reduced by 4.75% whereas, seeds sown at a low seeding rate (75 kg/ha) recorded a higher thousand kernel weight (TKW) as compared to the seed sown at higher seed rate 100 and 125 kg/ha. Interaction effect of deterioration days and seed rate were only significant for TKW and it was non-significant for the rest of the evaluated crop phenology, growth, yield, and yield-related parameters. This study was only a field experiment result based on further conclusions on how aging can affect the genetic potential such as germination and viability; laboratory inclusive test will be required.

Effect of harvesting time on root yield and nutritional composition of orange-fleshed sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] varieties in East Hararghe

In eastern Ethiopia, sweet potato is a vital food and nutrition security crop; moreover, orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) varieties are rich in beta-carotene content and have the potential to alleviate chronic Vitamin A malnutrition in the region. However, the unavailability of adaptable varieties and lack of information on production and post-harvest handling practices have limited its production and utilization in eastern Ethiopia. The research was conducted to identify the proper harvesting stage of OFSP varieties for optimum yield and nutritional compositions at Rare and Babile research stations of Haramaya University during the main rainy season of 2022. Three varieties (Alamura, Kabode, and Bakule) and four harvesting periods (120, 150, 180, and 210 days after planting (DAP) in factorial combinations were evaluated in randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were collected for growth, yield, and physicochemical composition-related parameters. Combined analysis of variance revealed the interaction effect of harvesting time and varieties had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on yield, yield-related parameters, and physicochemical components. Alamura variety produced comparable above-ground biomass (28.99 t ha−1) and the highest marketable root yield of 36.40 t ha−1 at 150 DAP, with dry matter content of 33.01 and 30.58 % at 150 and 120 DAP, respectively. Harvesting Alamura at 150 DAP also had the highest ꞵ-carotene, zinc, and iron contents of 11809 μg/100 g, 3.79, and 14.47 mg/100 g, respectively. It was concluded that growing the Alamura variety and harvesting at 150 DAP was better for obtaining higher root yield with good nutritional compositions in the study area.

Priming of Exogenous Salicylic Acid under Field Conditions Enhances Crop Yield through Resistance to Magnaporthe oryzae by Modulating Phytohormones and Antioxidant Enzymes.

This study explores the impact of exogenous salicylic acid (SA) alongside conventional treatment by farmers providing positive (Mancozeb 80 % WP) and negative (water) controls on rice plants (Oryza sativa L.), focusing on antioxidant enzyme activities, phytohormone levels, disease resistance, and yield components under greenhouse and field conditions. In greenhouse assays, SA application significantly enhanced the activities of peroxidase (POX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) within 12-24 h post-inoculation (hpi) with Magnaporthe oryzae. Additionally, SA-treated plants showed higher levels of endogenous SA and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) within 24 hpi compared to the controls. In terms of disease resistance, SA-treated plants exhibited a reduced severity of rice blast under greenhouse conditions, with a significant decrease in disease symptoms compared to negative control treatment. The field study was extended over three consecutive crop seasons during 2021-2023, further examining the efficacy of SA in regular agricultural practice settings. The SA treatment consistently led to a reduction in rice blast disease severity across all three seasons. Yield-related parameters such as plant height, the number of tillers and panicles per hill, grains per panicle, and 1000-grain weight all showed improvements under SA treatment compared to both positive and negative control treatments. Specifically, SA-treated plants yielded higher grain outputs in all three crop seasons, underscoring the potential of SA as a growth enhancer and as a protective agent against rice blast disease under both controlled and field conditions. These findings state the broad-spectrum benefits of SA application in rice cultivation, highlighting its role not only in bolstering plant defense mechanisms and growth under greenhouse conditions but also in enhancing yield and disease resistance in field settings across multiple crop cycles. This research presents valuable insights into the practical applications of SA in improving rice plant resilience and productivity, offering a promising approach for sustainable agriculture practices.

Optimum Seeding and Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates for Maximizing Yield and Sustaining Rain-Fed Lowland Rice (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Oryza Sativa &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;L.) in Fogera Plain North-western Ethiopia

Rice (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Oryza sativa&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; L.) is increasingly becoming an important food crop in Ethiopia. However, the average rice productivity in Ethiopia is estimated at 2.8 t ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; which is much lower than the world average, 4.6 t ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;. Its productivity is challenged due to a lack of appropriate and location-specific agronomic practices like the application of optimum doses of nitrogen fertilizer and the use of optimum seeding rates. Thus, a field experiment was conducted in Fogera district in South Gondar Zone, Northwestern Ethiopia during the 2021 main cropping season to determine the optimum dose of N level and seeding rate. The treatments comprised factorial combinations of four levels of N (134, 184, 234 and 284 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;) and four different seeding rates (60, 80, 100, and 120 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. All data on phenology, vegetative growth yield and yield-related parameters were collected and measured following scientific standards of each parameter. Those data were subjected to analysis of variance using the general linear model (GLM) procedures of SAS 9.0 version system. Economic analysis was also carried out by following CIMMYT partial budget analysis procedures. The analysis result showed the main effects of both, different levels of nitrogen and different rate of seeding, and their interactions showed highly significant effect on the number of both total and effective tillers, grain filling, panicle length, phonological parameters, totals spikelet’s, thousands seed weight, grain yield, biological yield and straw yield. Application of 184 kg N ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; level with a seeding rate 100 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; gave the maximum grain yield (6,641 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;), the highest number of effective tillers per m&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;2&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; (792) and filled grains per panicle (95.34). Furthermore, the highest net return of ETB 118,850 with acceptable marginal rate of return (2,313%) was also obtained from the application of 184 kg N ha-&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; level and a seeding rate 100 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;. From the current research experiment, it is possible to conclude that increasing seeding rate beyond 100 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1 &amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;and N above 184 kg N ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; is not economical yield of rice &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;“Selam’’ &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;variety in the study area. Rather, use of 184 kg N ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; and seeding rate of 100 kg ha&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; is promising for Lowland Rice (&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Selam&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;) variety production under the rain fed condition in Fogera Plains and similar agro-ecologies of rain-fed growing area of Ethiopia for better economic and agronomic advantage.

Overexpression of Orysa;KRP4 drastically reduces grain filling in rice.

Excess of KRP4 in the developing kernels in rice causes poor filling of the grains possibly through inhibition of CDKA;2 and CDKB;1 activity mediated by its interaction with CDKF;3. The potential yield of the rice varieties producing compact and heavy panicles bearing numerous spikelets is compromised because a high percentage of spikelets remain poorly filled, reportedly because of a high expression of KRPs that causes suppression of endosperm cell proliferation. To test the stated negative relationship between KRP expression and grain filling, Orysa;KRP4 was overexpressed under the control of seed-specific glutelin promoter in IR-64 rice variety that shows good grain filling. The transgenic lines showed more than 15-fold increase in expression of KRP4 in the spikelets concomitant with nearly 50% reduction in grain filling compared with the wild type without producing any significant changes on the other yield-related parameters like panicle length and the spikelets numbers that were respectively 30.23 ± 0.89cm and 229.25 ± 33.72 per panicle in the wild type, suggesting a highly organ-targeted effect of the genetic transformation. Yeast two-hybrid test revealed CDKF;3 as the interacting partner of KRP4, and CDKF;3 was found to interact with CDKA;2, CDKB;1 and CDKD;1. Significant decrease in grain filling in the transgenic lines compared with the wild type due to overexpression of KRP4 could be because of suppression of the activity of CDKB;1 and CDKA;2 by inhibition of their phosphorylation directly by CDKF;3, or mediated through inhibition of phosphorylation of CDKD;1 by CDKF;3. The study thus indicated that suppression of expression of KRP(s) by genetic manipulation of their promoters could be an important way of improving the yield of the rice varieties bearing compact and heavy panicles.

Effect of integrated vermicompost and chemical nitrogen fertilizer for productivity of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

The study was conducted at Horo district on six (6) farmers’ fields to investigate the effect of integrated vermicompost and chemical nitrogen fertilizer for bread wheat and the soil nutrient content. The treatments consist of without any fertilizer, recommended chemical NP fertilizer, 100% N equivalent vermicompost + recommended P2O5, 75% N equivalent Vermicompost + 25% recommended N + recommended P2O5, 50% equivalent Vermicompost + 50% recommended N + recommended P2O5 and 25% equivalent Vermicompost + 75% recommended N + recommended P2O5. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Dendea seed variety with a rate of 150 Kg ha-1 was used for the trial. ANOVA analysis for after harvesting soil parameters showed significant (P&lt;0.05) differences among treatments for available phosphorus, organic carbon, exchangeable acidity and cations exchange capacity while pH and exchangeable Ca and Mg were not statistically significant among the treatments. ANOVA showed that the treatments significantly influenced all collected yield and yield related parameters of the crop. Relatively the highest crop yield and yield related traits were obtained from T2 (recommended chemical fertilizer) while the lowest was from control (without fertilizer). The highest net income (91971.70 birr/ha) was obtained from 25% equivalence vermicompost + 75% recommended N + recommended P2O5. To have more confidence in the technology; it should be verified in the same area with the same management procedure.

Effect of Nano-Urea Based Nitrogen Application on the Growth, Phenology and Yield of Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

As large quantum of urea is used in the rice crop, there is a need to reduce atleast some portion of prilled urea to minimize the nitrogen losses besides improving the growth and yield of rice. With this rationale, a field experiment was carried out in the Kharif season of 2022 at the Agronomy Research Farm in Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology- Kashmir, India to study the efficiency of Nano-urea over prilled urea in direct-seeded rice. The experimental study comprised of nine treatments viz.,T0 (Control), T1 (recommended dose of prilled urea), T2 (NU 2 sprays at 6 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T3 (NU 2 sprays at 8 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T4 (50 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 2 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T5 (50 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 4 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T6 (25 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 2 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T7 (25 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 4 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage), T8 (25 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 6 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage) and T9 (25 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 8 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage) which were arranged in randomized complete block design and replicated three times. These treatments included the application of Nano-urea in addition to conventional nitrogen dosages of 120 kg ha-1 and control treatments (no application). T5 (50 % RDPU as basal + NU 2 sprays at 4 ml L-1 at AT and PI stage) was the treatment that most significantly improved growth characteristics out of all of them, with a notable achievement of a Leaf Area Index (LAI) of 4.51. In addition, T5 performed superior to other treatments in yield-related parameters like panicle weight (2.69 g), yield (66.57 q ha-1). These findings demonstrate the significant potential of Nano-urea to maximize nitrogen use and increase yield in direct-seeded rice farming systems.

Varietal Response to Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Bulb Yield, Storability, and Production Economics of Onion (Allium cepa L.)

The field experiment was conducted in the Rabi season of 2021-22 in the research farm of the Regional Research Center, Raiya (Jhajjar) of Maharana Pratap Horticultural University, Karnal, Haryana to examine the impact of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers on the growth, bulb yield and self-life of two indigenous onion varieties was examined. The treatment combinations comprised seven treatments along with one control that was arranged in a randomized block design (factorial) with four replications and two varieties namely Hisar Onion-2 and Hisar Onion-4. The results of the study showed that bulb yield-related parameters such as average fresh weight of bulbs (82.39 g), yield per plot (26.74 kg), and yield per hectare (29.71 t) were recorded maximum in the treatment T6. However, the better storage life of bulbs was estimated in treatment control which was at par with treatment T3 i.e., physiological loss in weight (20.23%), sprouting (3.14%), and rotting (11.43%) were observed minimum after 120 days of storage period. Hisar onion-4 was found superior in all the bulb yield and shelf-life parameters in comparison to Hisar Onion-2. Treatment consisting of 50% recommended dose of NPK + 50% RDN supplied through Vermi-compost recorded maximum net return (Rs.1, 97,942) and benefit-cost ratio (2.25). Therefore, it can be inferred that the combined use of organic manures and inorganic fertilizers contributes to the improved shelf life of onion bulbs and enhances the long-term production potential of the soil.

Evaluation of Bio-Stimulants for Active Growth, Yield and Shelf Life of Papaya cv. Red Lady

Bio-stimulants, which are natural substances aiding plant growth and resilience, are comprised of various organic and mineral compounds, serving as eco-friendly tools for sustainable farming. The research study was conducted at the Horticulture Farm of Agriculture at Lovely Professional University in Phagwara, Punjab, during the years 2023-24. The study employed a randomized block design with seven treatments replicated three times. Bio-stimulants were sprayed at 60, 90, 120 and 150 days after planting (DAP) on papaya plants cv. Red Lady to evaluate its effect on various growth, quality and shelf-life parameters. Various growth parameters including plant height, stem girth, canopy spread, petiole length of leaves, as well as floral characteristics such as days taken for flowering, height at initial flowering, number of flowers per node, fruit set percentage and yield-related parameters were evaluated. The study found significant effects of different bio-stimulant applications on papaya growth, flower and fruit production, fruit quality and shelf-life. Treatment T4 (RDF + Diatomaceous earth) showed notable improvements in growth parameters, while treatment T5 (RDF + Panchgavya) resulted in enhanced productivity, fruit quality and shelf-life. Overall, the study suggests that the application of Diatomaceous earth alongside fertilizers promotes vegetative growth, while Panchgavya application enhances flowering, fruiting and quality attributes, offering insights for optimizing papaya cultivation practices for improved yield and quality.

Melatonin differentially refines the metabolome to improve seed formation during grain developmental stages and enhances yield in two contrasting rice cultivars, grown in arsenic-contaminated soil

The manuscript revealed the ameliorative effects of exogenous melatonin in two distinct reproductive stages, i.e., developing grains (20 days after pollination) and matured grains (40 days after pollination) in two contrasting indica rice genotypes, viz., Khitish (arsenic-susceptible) and Muktashri (arsenic-tolerant), irrigated with arsenic-contaminated water throughout their life-cycle. Melatonin administration improved yield-related parameters like rachis length, primary and secondary branch length, number of grains per panicle, number of filled and empty grains per panicle, grain length and breadth and 1000-grain per weight. Expression of GW2, which negatively regulates grain development, was suppressed, along with concomitant induction of positive regulators like GIF1, DEP1 and SPL14 in both Khitish and Muktashri. Melatonin lowered arsenic bioaccumulation in grains and tissue biomass, more effectively in Khitish. Unregulated production of reactive oxygen species, leading to cellular necrosis caused by arsenic, was reversed in presence of melatonin. Endogenous melatonin level was stimulated due to up-regulation of the key biosynthetic genes, SNAT and ASMT. Melatonin enhanced the production of diverse antioxidants like anthocyanins, flavonoids, total phenolics and ascorbic acid and also heightened the production of thiol-metabolites (cysteine, reduced glutathione, non-protein thiols and phytochelatin), ensuring effective chelation and arsenic detoxification. Altogether, our observation, supported by principal component analysis, proved that melatonin re-programs the antioxidative metabolome to enhance plant resilience against arsenic stress to mitigate oxidative damages and reduce arsenic translocation from the soil to tissue biomass and edible grains.

Effects of Seed Priming on Germination of Nigella sativa L. and Comparison of Germination Performance with Yield Parameters in Field Conditions

The utilization of Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black cumin, in traditional and medicinal practices is well-documented, attributing to its wide-ranging biological activities. Given its significance, this study explores the efficacy of various seed priming treatments (control, distilled water, potassium humate, and gibberellic acid) under laboratory and field conditions to enhance the early growth stages of Nigella sativa L. Priming treatments aimed to improve germination rates, plant height, and other growth parameters, potentially translating into increased agricultural productivity. According to results plant height ranged from 52.38 to 58.91 cm, number of branches between 3.76 and 3.98 (branch plant-1). The number of capsules varied from 4.93 to 6.81 (capsule plant-1), capsule seed weight was between 0.19 and 0.22 (gram capsule-1 ), and the thousand-seed weight ranged from 2.26 to 2.39 grams. The germination rate ranged from 78% to 93%, germination index 4.22-5.83 and mean germination time was observed from 4.27 to 4.82 days. Our findings reveal significant effects of priming on germination parameters and plant height, this offering insights into the potential of these treatments to optimize crop growth. However, the transition of these benefits to field conditions, particularly yield-related parameters, appeared limited, suggesting the complex nature of growth enhancement strategies and their implications for agricultural practices.

Growth, yield, and yield-related response of mid-season cauliflower varieties due to different B levels in Chitwan, Nepal

Boron (B) is a vital micronutrient that many crops, including vegetables, require in small amounts. However, brassica vegetables need B in higher doses. Although Chitwan has the highest area under cauliflower production, the productivity is low as a result of inadequate B fertilization. Cauliflower is a B-sensitive crop, and low B in soil results in poor growth, yield, and yield-related parameters. So, to study the growth, yield, and yield-related response of cauliflower varieties due to different B levels, a field experiment was conducted at the horticulture farm of Agriculture and Forestry University of Chitwan, Nepal. The experiment was laid out in a two-factor factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) having (B levels: 0.55 kg ha−1, 1.1 kg ha−1, 1.65 kg ha−1, and 2.2 kg ha−1) and (cauliflower varieties; Kathmandu Local, White Top, and Snow Crown), which were replicated thrice. The maximum values of growth parameters like the plant height, leaf length, leaf breadth, plant canopy diameter, and the number of leaves were obtained from B 2.2 kg ha−1. Similarly, the White Top variety produced the tallest plant, the longest leaf, and the highest number of leaves, while the broadest leaf and canopy cover were observed in Snow Crown. The shortest days required for first, 50 % and 100 % curd initiation were observed in B 2.2 kg ha−1, and in the case of varieties, White Top took the least time for first, 50 %, and 100 % curd initiation. Similarly, the highest curd weight, curd diameter, and curd yield were obtained when B was applied at 2.2 kg ha−1. White Top produced the curd with the highest weight, diameter, and yield. A strong positive correlation was observed between curd diameter and leaf length (r = 0.89, p < 0.01) and curd diameter and leaf breadth (r = 0.84, p < 0.01). Curd yield and diameter were also positively correlated with r = 0.78 at p < 0.01. Thus, according to the current findings, it can be recommended that in the mid-season condition at Chitwan, Nepal, application of B at the rate of 2.2 kg ha−1 and the use of the White Top variety should be made for better growth and yield of cauliflower.

Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen on Growth, Yield and Productivity of Wheat (Triticum estivum L.) Cv. Koshan-02

The field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different levels (0, 50, 70, 90 &amp; 110 kg N ha-1) of Nitrogen (N) on growth, yield and yield related parameters of wheat (cv. Koshan-02) in Kabul agro-climate condition at the Agricultural Research Farm of Kabul University, during spring 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications, each replication consisted of five treatments. Total treatments were (15). The size of each plot was (2mx3m=6m2). The result of our study revealed that the plots treated with highest level (110 kg N ha-1) of N fertilizers produced the highest plant height (85.97cm). maximum number of grains spike-1 (35.74), the highest dry matter (3.937t ha-1), The highest number of tillers m-2 (152.76 m-2), 1000-grain weight (48.94g), grain yield (2891.1kg/ha) large spike length (10.52), number of grains spikelet-1 (2.98), Spikelet number spike-1 (11.54), followed by T4, T3 and T2. It was concluded that all treatments have ranked regarding their efficient effects as ((T5 (110 kg N ha-1&gt; T4 (90 kg N ha-1&gt; T3 (70 kg N ha-1&gt; T2 (50 kg N ha_1&gt; TControl) for all growth, yield and yield helping attributes such as plant height, number of grains spike-1, dry matter (kg ha-1), number of tillers plant-1, 1000-grain weight(g), grain yield (kg ha-1), spike length (cm), number of grains spikelet-1, number of spikelet spike-1, spike number m-2 and number of leaves plant_1. So, for obtaining aimed and desirable yield the application of (110 kg N ha-1) is recommended under research area conditions (Agro-Climatic Condition).