International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Determining the Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) on Growth and Flower Yield of Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) cv. Prajwal

2024-04-18T11:00:30+00:00

Tuberose (Polyanthes tuberosa L.) is a highly valued commercial bulbous ornamental plant found in tropical and subtropical climates in the Amaryllidaceae family. It is high demand in both domestic and distant markets due to its long tepels, funnel shape, and strong fragrance. The field experiment was carried out to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and flower yield of tuberose cv. Prajwal during the year of 2021 -2022 at Department of Horticulture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu. The investigation was laid out in Randomized Block Design with 10 treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of different levels of FYM (25% and 15%), poultry manure (25% and 15%), vermicompost (25 % and 15 %), inoculation of Azotobacter (2 kg ha^-1) and phosphate solubilizing bacteria (2 kg ha^-1) along with RDF (100 % and 75 %). Among the different treatments, T₁₀(75 % RDF + Azotobacter @ 2 kg ha^-1+ PSB @ 2 kg ha^-1) was discovered to be more successful in improving all growth, physiological and flowering characters viz., plant height (51.75 cm), number of side shoots plant^-1(11.23), leaf area (98.76 cm²), chlorophyll content (0.99 mg g^-1), dry matter production (42.37 g plant^-1) and flowering and yield parameter viz., number of spike plant^-1(3.12), length of spike (105.30 cm), number of florets spike^-1(56.11) and flower yield ha^-1(15.72 t ha^‑1).

Improvement in Seed Germination and Growth Parameters in Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng Using Different Growing Media

2024-04-18T13:19:44+00:00

The experiment was conducted to determine the effect of different growing media on seed germination and growth parameters of Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng under glass house conditions at Dr. YS Parmar university of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan Himachal Pradesh during May 2022 to October 2022. The experiment consist of seven treatments (growing media) viz., S1: Soil (Control), S2: Soil + FYM (2:1), S3: Soil + Vermicompost (2:1), S4: Soil + Coco peat (2:1), S5: Soil + Sand + FYM (1:1:1), S6: Soil + Sand + Vermicompost (1:1:1) and S7: Soil + Sand + Coco peat (1:1:1) with three replications. Observations were recorded on Germination percentage (%), Initiation of germination (days), Completion of germination (days), Mean daily germination (%), Peak value, Germination value, Seedling root length (cm) and Seedling shoot length (cm). The study found that the growing media of (Soil + Sand + Vermicompost) in ratio (1:1:1) exhibited maximum value for seed germination and growth parameters viz., maximum germination percentage (86.00 %), early initiation of germination (10.00 days), early completion of germination (20.33 days), peak value (6.35), mean daily germination (4.26 %), germination value (27.15), seedling shoot length (17.60 cm) and seedling root length (18.90 cm). However, the minimum value for all germination and growth parameters was recorded in control.

Effect of Boron Fertilization and Boron Enriched Organic Manures on Yield Boron Use Efficiency and Nutrient Uptake by Tomato in Coastal Soil

2024-04-20T10:16:20+00:00

Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development, playing a pivotal role in various physiological processes within the plant. In tomato cultivation, maintaining adequate boron levels is crucial for achieving optimal yield and quality. However, due to factors such as soil type, environmental conditions, and plant genetics, boron deficiency or inefficient utilization often poses challenges for growers, leading to reduced productivity and economic losses in coastal regions of Tamilnadu. This study investigates the effect of boron fertilization and boron enriched organic manures on yield boron use efficiency and nutrient uptake by tomato in coastal soil. A field experiment was conducted in the farmer’s field at Varagurpettai coastal village, near Chidambaram in Cuddalore district of Tamilnadu, during July-November, 2022 using tomato variety NTH-777 as test crop. The experimental soil was sandy loam in texture and taxonomically classified as Typic Ustifluvent with pH-8.39, EC-4.07 dSm^-1 and analysed low status of organic carbon (2.47 g kg^-1). The soil analysed low in alkaline KMnO₄–N (145.71 kg ha^-1) and Olsen-P (10.57 kg ha^-1) and medium in NH₄OAc-K (157.42 kg ha^-1). The available hot water soluble B content (0.27 mg kg^-1) was also low in soil. The various treatments imposed in the study included T₁–Control (RDF alone/100% NPK), T₂–RDF + Composted coirpith (CCP) @ 12.5 t ha^-1, T₃–RDF + CCP + Borax (B) @ 10 kg ha^-1through soil application (SA), T₄–RDF + CCP + Borax (B) through foliar application (FA) @ 0.5% twice @ pre flowering stage (PFS) and flowering stage (FS), T₅–RDF +CCP + Borax (SA) + (FA), T₆–RDF + CCP + Borohumate (BH) @ 15 kg ha^-1 soil application (SA), T₇–RDF + CCP + Borohumate (FA), T₈–RDF + CCP + Borohumate (SA) + FA, T₉–RDF + Borax Enriched Composted coirpith (BECCP) @ 6.25 t ha^-1(SA), T₁₀–RDF + Borohumate Enriched Composted coirpith (BHECCP) @ 6.25 t ha^-1(SA), T₁₁–RDF + BECCP (SA) + Borax (FA) and T₁₂–RDF + BHECCP (SA) + Borohumate (FA). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The results of the field experiment clearly indicated that integrated application of NPK fertilizer along with B enriched organic manures + biofertilizer and foliar spray of borohumate (BH) positively increased the growth, yield, quality and nutrient uptake by tomato. This treatment recorded the highest agronomic efficiency (4.10 t kg^-1), agro physiological efficiency (20.45 t kg^-1), apparent recovery efficiency (43.45%), physiological efficiency (14.30 t kg^-1) and boron use efficiency (410.34). This research contributes to the development of boron utilization dynamics and this study paves the way for future advancements in nutrient management strategies tailored to maximize yield and quality in tomato production systems.

Effect of NPS Rates and Row Spacing on Production of Faba Bean (Viciafaba L.) at High-land of North Shewa Zone of Oromia, Ethiopia

2024-04-22T12:12:00+00:00

Plant density and poor soil fertility are among the major factors that limit faba bean production in the study areas. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to determine the optimum NPS (nitrogen, phosphate, and sulfur with the ratio of 19% N, 38% P₂O₅, and 7% S) rate and appropriate inter-row spacing for faba bean production in the highlands of the north Shewa zone of Oromia, Ethiopia. Factorial combination of four rates of NPS (0, 50, 100, 150 kg ha^-1) and four inter-row spacing (30, 40, 50, 60cm) were laid out in a Randomized Compete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The result of the study indicated that the soil required amending with organic fertilizers to enhance soil fertility. Both the main and the interaction effects of NPS and inter-row spacing significantly influenced the faba bean phenological and growth parameters. However, NPS had more profound effects in enhancing the growth response of the crop than inter-row spacing. Increasing the rate of NPS from nil to 100 kg ha^-1 resulted in a 30% increase in grain yield, with no further increases noted beyond this level. However, the result revealed that increased inter-row spacing from 30cm to 60cm decreased grain yield. Decreasing inter-row spacing implies high plant density, which consequently correlates with high yield. The total yield per unit area depends not only on the performance of individual plants but also on the density of plants per unit area, as confirmed in this study. The maximum net benefit of 91,639.5 ETB ha^-1with an acceptable marginal rate of return 486.3% was obtained from the application of 100 kg ha^-1 NPS rate and 30 cm inter-row spacing. Thus, this rate and inter-row spacing are suggested for faba bean production in the north shewa zone.

Iron Heterogeneity in Soil and its Relation to its Uptake by Water Leaf (Talinum Triangulaire L.)

2024-04-23T09:18:01+00:00

This study investigated the relationship between iron (Fe) heterogeneity in soil and Fe uptake by water leaf (Talinum triangulaire). A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted with water leaf grown under three treatments; control (0mg/kg Fe added), homogeneous (1000mg/kg Fe added), and heterogeneous (simulated realistic heterogeneity) for six weeks after initial establishment in the nursery for four weeks). At harvest, plant samples were cut, washed, dried, milled into powder and analyzed for iron concentrations using the Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) Thermos Fisher Scientific Model 3000 ICE after acid digest by Nitric acid (HNO₃). The mean root Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 1263 ±154mg/kg, 1504 ±178mg/kg and 1393mg/kg ±140mg/kg respectively. The mean shoot Fe concentrations of the control, homogeneous and heterogeneous treatments were 904 ±174u mg/kg, 1401±117 mg/kg and 1045 ±95 mg/kg respectively. There was no statistically significant difference (p >0.005) in shoot and root Fe concentration between treatments. However, the homogeneous treatment was 0.19 times higher than the control and 0.07 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. Iron level in the roots was 0.35 times high as the control and 0.25 times higher than the heterogeneous treatment. The Concentration factors for the control, homogeneous, and heterogeneous treatments were 0.1118, 0.1498 and 0.1258 respectively. The similarity in concentration factor between treatments showed that it is an accumulator of Fe and has the affinity for Fe irrespective of the varied soil concentrations. These findings indicate that water leaf possesses mechanisms enabling efficient Fe acquisition from variable soil conditions. Overall, the study provides initial evidence that water leaf is resilient to variability in soil Fe distribution, holding implications for its improved cultivation. However, further research on the specific genes and processes governing iron mobilization and uptake in water leaf is recommended.

Effect of NPK and Growth Regulators on Yield Attributes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

2024-04-23T10:46:02+00:00

The present experimental study was carried out during Rabi season 2020-21 at Instructional farm, BTC College of Agriculture and Research station, Bilaspur (C.G.). The soil of the experimental field was clay in texture. The wheat Var. HI-1544 was grown and treatments were replicated three times in randomized block design. The experiment consists of nine treatments The crop was sown on 11^th November, 2020 and harvesting was done on 24^th March, 2021.The result revealed that maximum yield parameters the significantly higher grain (45.55 q ha¹) and straw (46.45 q ha^-1) yields were observed under the treatment 150 % RDF NPK + Two spray of growth regulator at first node (35 DAS) and boot leaf stage (60 DAS) (T₉). Further, among the nutrient management treatment, significantly maximum grain and straw yield up to (43.65q ha^-1) and (46.35q ha^-1) respectively were recorded under150 % RDF NPK (T₆). However, the treatment (T₉) was statically similar with the treatment (T₆). The improvement in yield attributes and yield of wheat was recorded with the application of 150 % RDF NPK + Two spray of growth regulator at first node (35 DAS) and boot leaf stage (60 DAS) (T₉) which was at par with the application of 150 % RDF NPK (T₆). Treatment (T₉) assigned yield advantage of 21.19 % and 21.52 % in grain and straw yield respectively as compared to 150 % RDF NPK (T₆).

Effect of Sowing Dates on Performance of Different Mustard Varieties (Brassica juncea L.) in Western Uttar Pradesh, India

2024-04-24T07:59:58+00:00

An experiment was conducted to study the “Effect of sowing dates on performance of different mustard varieties (Brassica juncea L.) in western Uttar Pradesh” during rabi season of 2021-22 at Crop Research Centre of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut (U.P.). The experiment consisted of 12 treatment combinations with Date of sowing and Mustard varieties. The treatment consisted of three dates of sowing and four mustard varieties were tested in RCBD (Factorial) with three replications. Results revealed that the sowing of mustard on D₁(7^th October) gave higher plant height (190.2 cm), LAI (4.06), branches plant^-1, dry matter accumulation (69.40 g plant^-1), seed (21.11 q ha^-1), stover (71.76 q ha^-1) and biological yield (92.88 q ha^-1) of mustard crop. Similarly, the variety V₁(Pusa Vijay) gave highest plant height (197.5 cm), LAI (4.22), branches plant^-1, dry matter accumulation (69.65 g plant^-1), seed (22.27 q ha^-1), stover (69.59 q ha^-1) and biological yield (91.87 q h^-1) of mustard crop. Thus, it may be concluded that the Pusa Vijay variety of mustard sown on 7^th October gave significantly higher values of growth, yield attributes and yield of mustard.

Evaluation of Different Organic Manure on Nutrient Content, Uptake and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L) Crop

2024-04-24T09:28:07+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) during Rabi season to evaluate the “effect of different organic manure on nutrient content, uptake and yield of mustard (Brassica juncea L) crop.”. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with Eight treatments and three replications. Eight treatments viz. Control, 100% VC (8 tonnes per hectare), 100% FYM (10 tonnes per hectare),100% PM (10 tonnes per hectare),50% FYM + 50% VC + Natural liquid manure (Jeevamrit), 50% FYM + 50% PM + Natural liquid manure (Jeevamrit), 50% FYM + 25% VC + 25% PM, 25% FYM + 50% VC + 25% PM along with different management practices were implemented.

The result revealed that the highest nutrient content (%) by seed (3.15 N, 0.511 P, 0.560 K) and Stover (0.601 N, 0.180 P, 1.48 K) and the highest nutrient uptake (kg ha^-1) of all the three nutrients by seed (56.54 N, 9.17 P, 10.05 K) and stover (28.80 N, 8.63 P, 70.92 K) were recorded with combined effect of FYM, VC with application of Jeevamrit viz., and 50% NPKS through FYM+ 50% N through VC which was statistically at par toT6. Reduction in nutrient supply resulted significantly lower uptake of N, P and K in the treatment which received only 100% FYM. Similarly, the maximum seed (17.95 q ha^-1) and Stover (47.92 q ha^-1) yield of mustard was recorded in the T5 treatment (50% FYM + 50% VC + Natural liquid manure Jeevamrit) treatment received 50% recommended doses of NPKS through FYM and 50% N through VC which was at par to T6 in which 50% FYM + 50% PM + Natural liquid manure (Jeevamrit) was applied. However, the lowest value found in control treatment (T6).

Studies on the Variability of Indigenous Mulberry Germplasm for Growth and Yield Traits

2024-04-24T10:39:20+00:00

Twenty two indigenous mulberry accessions were evaluated for growth and yield traits in three seasons. ANOVA on growth and yield showed significant variation among the accessions for the traits. The interaction between accession and season was highly significant for all traits. The co-efficient of variation was maximum for single leaf weight (17.08%) and minimum for total shoot length (0.08%). The divergence analysis grouped 22 indigenous mulberry accessions into 5 clusters. Maximum accessions were grouped in clusters I & II (8 acc.) followed by cluster V (4 acc.). The diversity among the accessions measured by inter-cluster distance (D2) showed variation. The cluster group indicates that mulberry accessions were distributed in different clusters irrespective of geographical distribution.

Response of Nutrient Management on Yield and Economics in Potato-Based Cropping System in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India

2024-04-24T10:46:29+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during 2019-20 at Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya (U.P.) during kharif, rabi and summer season to judge the “effect of nutrient management on potato-based cropping system”. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The soil of experimental field was silt loam, having low organic carbon (0.31%), available N (140 kg/ha), available P (15.6 kg/ha) and available K (246.5 kg/ha). The rice variety NDR - 97, potato variety Kufri Khyati and bottle gourd variety Narendra Rashmi were planting/sowing in the respective seasons. Recommended dose of fertilizers (NPK) for rice (120:60:60), potato (150:100:120) and bottle gourd (60:40:40) were applied. For soil test basis application of N have to be increased by 30% for low fertility soil (available N). The result revealed that maximum yield like rice grain (3.8 t ha^-1), potato tuber (35.42 t ha^-1) and bottle gourd (30.40 t ha^-1) were got under T₈treatment (N, P and K applied on soil test basis), while minimum in T₁plot (control plot). The highest net return and B:C ratio in rice (Rs 29519 and 1.21), potato (Rs 207040 and 2.68) and bottle gourd (Rs 135003 and 7.81) were recorded under T₈ treatment (N, P and K nutrients applied on soil test basis). While minimum net return with T₁ plot (control plot) in each season during investigation.

Review on Nanotechnology in Organic Fertilizers: A Sustainable Agricultural Revolution

2024-04-18T11:16:27+00:00

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier in agriculture, offering innovative solutions to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of organic fertilizers. Organic farming practices, known for their environmental benefits and reduced chemical inputs, often face challenges in nutrient delivery and crop yield optimization. The global agricultural industry faces increasing challenges in feeding a growing population while minimizing environmental impacts. In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative tool in the development of organic fertilizers. This abstract provides a concise overview of the application of nanotechnology in organic fertilizers, highlighting its potential to revolutionize sustainable agriculture. However, the utilization of nanotechnology in organic fertilizers also raises concerns regarding potential environmental and health risks associated with nanoparticles. Careful research, regulation, and risk assessment before approval of any nanotechnology-based agri-product. This includes evaluating the toxicity of the nanomaterials used, the potential for environmental release, and the impact on human health are essential to ensure the safe and responsible application of nanomaterial’s in agriculture.

Effect of Humic Acid on Growth, Yield and Soil Properties in Rice: A Review

2024-04-19T10:27:15+00:00

Humic acids, natural organic compounds derived from decaying organic matter, have gained significant attention in agriculture due to their potential to promote plant growth, yield, and soil fertility. Humic acid additions boost plant metabolism, promote root development, and increase nutrient absorption, leading to enhanced growth and development. Furthermore, humic acids have a significant role in improving the structure, moisture retention, and availability of nutrients in soil, thereby creating a favorable environment for plant growth. Studies have illustrated that humic acid application can lead to increased yields in a wide range of crops. Humic acid application efficiently increases hormonal activities and various enzyme activities which helps in tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, and respiration process. The mechanisms underlying this enhancement involve the modulation of physiological processes, such as photosynthesis, nutrient assimilation, and stress tolerance. In addition to promoting plant growth and yield, humic acid amendments have been shown to positively influence on soil properties. These include increased microbial activity, enhanced soil aggregation, and improved nutrient cycling. Moreover, humic acids can mitigate soil degradation processes, such as salinization, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Through the utilization of humic acids, farmers may maximize crop yields while reducing their ecological footprint, therefore promoting food security and sustainable agriculture.

The Effect of Stubble Burning and Residue Management on Soil Properties: A Review

2024-04-20T09:34:56+00:00

Stubble burning, a common agricultural practice, has gained significant attention due to its adverse effects on soil properties and environmental sustainability. The in-situ burning of stubble, especially in the context of the rice-wheat cropping system, can significantly alter the physical and chemical properties of soil, particularly in the topsoil layer. The factors contributing to crop residue burning in India include time constraints between successive crops which necessitates the need to clear fields quickly and limited access to mechanized equipment for residue management. As a result, many farmers resort to burning crop residues as a quick and cost-effective method to clear fields for the next planting season. In situ stubble management techniques offer sustainable alternatives to address these issues and promote soil health as this once-dismissed residue transforms into a strategic tool for nurturing soil vitality. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the impact of stubble burning on various soil properties, especially in the context of burning of rice residues. It synthesizes existing literature and research findings to elucidate the interactions between stubble burning and soil health and evaluates mainly the long-term consequences of stubble burning on soil fertility and productivity. Based on the findings, crop residue burning disrupts soil ecosystems, impairs nutrient cycling, decreases soil fertility and compromises ecosystem resilience, leading to long-term soil degradation while the short-term effects remain less understood across different contexts.