International Journal of Plant & Soil Science

Effect of Organic Manures and Micronutrient Application on Growth and Yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Sudarshan Panchal — 2026-05-26

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important pulse crop; however, its productivity is frequently constrained by low soil organic matter content and micronutrient deficiencies. In this context, a field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2025–26 at the Agricultural Farm of Career Point University, Alaniya, Kota (Rajasthan), to assess the effects of organic manures and foliar-applied micronutrients on the growth and yield performance of chickpea (variety GNG 1581). The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomised block design (FRBD) comprising 12 treatment combinations with three replications. The treatments included three levels of organic manure (control, vermicompost at 2.0 t ha⁻¹, and farmyard manure (FYM) at 5 t ha⁻¹) and four foliar micronutrient applications (control, zinc at 0.5%, boron at 0.2%, and iron at 0.2%). The experimental soil was clay loam in texture, alkaline in reaction (pH 8.35), and characterised by low organic carbon content. Results indicated that the application of Vermicompost @ 2.0 t ha^-1 significantly enhanced all growth attributes, recording the highest plant height (45.60 cm), number of branches per plant (9.65), and dry matter accumulation (34.90 g) at harvest. Yield studies further demonstrated the superiority of this treatment, which registered the maximum grain yield (1980 kg ha^-1), straw yield (3680 kg ha^-1), and harvest index (34.98%) over FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 and the control. Among the micronutrient treatments, the foliar application of Zinc @ 0.5% consistently outperformed the others. It maximized vegetative growth, leading to the highest plant height (45.45 cm), branches per plant (9.70), and dry matter accumulation (35.20 g). Consequently, the Zinc treatment also produced the highest grain yield (2010 kg ha^-1), straw yield (3710 kg ha^-1), and harvest index (35.13%), significantly surpassing the Boron, Iron, and control treatments. The strategic integration of Vermicompost @ 2.0 t ha^-1 and foliar Zinc @ 0.5% emerged as the most effective nutrient management approach for optimizing the overall growth and yield of chickpea.

Influence of Chlormequat Chloride and Maleic Hydrazide on Yield and Yield Components of Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

K. Tressa Naidu — 2026-05-26

Rice productivity is often affected by climate variability and lodging, especially in coastal regions, leading to yield losses and poor grain quality. Plant growth regulators such as chlormequat chloride and maleic hydrazide are used to modify plant growth and improve assimilate distribution, lodging resistance, and yield performance in rice. A field investigation was carried out on rice during the rabi, 2020 - 21 at the wetland farm of S.V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The goal was to study the effects of foliar application of maleic hydrazide and chlormequat chloride on rice yield and its attributes. The experiment followed a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments and three replications. Twenty one day old rice seedlings were transplanted at two seedlings per hill. The treatments included control (T₁), maleic hydrazide at 5000 ppm (T₂), 10,000 ppm (T₃), and 15,000 ppm (T₄). It also included chlormequat chloride at 250 ppm (T₅), 500 ppm (T₆), and 750 ppm (T₇), applied as a foliar spray during the flowering stage. Observations on productive tillers, plant^-1, grains panicle^-1, filled grains panicle^-1, grain yield, straw yield, and test weight were recorded and analysed statistically using ANOVA. Significant differences appeared among the treatments for all studied parameters. Chlormequat chloride at 500 ppm (T₆) showed the highest results for productive tillers plant^-1 (10.00), grains panicle^-1(185.33), filled grains panicle^-1(173.66), grain yield (5248 kg ha⁻¹), straw yield (7248 kg ha⁻¹), and test weight (20.66 g). The untreated control had the lowest values for all yield attributes and parameters. The improved performance from growth retardant treatments resulted from better assimilate distribution, higher photosynthetic efficiency, and improved grain filling. The study concluded that foliar application of chlormequat chloride @ 500 ppm is an effective method to boost rice productivity.

Influence of Tillage, Residue, and Nutrient Management Practices on Physico-chemical and Biological Properties of Soil under Salt-affected Conditions in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Crop

Manish Kumar — 2026-05-26

Sustainable soil management practices such as conservation tillage, residue retention, and integrated nutrient management are important for improving soil health and crop productivity under salt-affected conditions. The field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2022-23 at the Research Farm, School of Agriculture, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. The main plot treatments consisted of two tillage systems, viz., zero tillage and conventional tillage. The sub-plot treatments comprised five residue and nutrient management practices: 100% rice residue (RN₁), no residue + 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) (RN₂), 100% rice residue + 75% RDF (RN₃), 100% rice residue + 100% RDF (RN₄), and 100% rice residue + 125% RDF (RN₅). The results revealed that tillage and residue–nutrient management practices had a non-significant effect on soil pH, organic carbon, and electrical conductivity. However, relatively higher values of organic carbon were observed under zero tillage and RN₅ (100% rice residue + 125% RDF), followed by RN₁ (100% rice residue). In contrast, available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) were significantly influenced by the treatments, with values increasing over the initial soil status. Zero tillage in combination with residue and nutrient management practices significantly enhanced the availability of N, P, and K in the soil after crop harvest. The highest available N, P, and K were recorded under RN₅ (100% rice residue + 125% RDF). Furthermore, soil biological properties were markedly influenced by the treatments. The maximum microbial population of bacteria (39.06 × 10⁶ CFU g⁻¹), fungi (14.13 × 10³ CFU g⁻¹), and actinomycetes (21.63 × 10⁴ CFU g⁻¹) was recorded under zero tillage. Among residue and nutrient management practices, the highest microbial population of bacteria (39.79 × 10⁶ CFU g⁻¹), fungi (14.88 × 10³ CFU g⁻¹), and actinomycetes (22.12 × 10⁴ CFU g⁻¹) was observed with RN₅ (100% rice residue + 125% RDF).

Synergistic Effects on Silicon and Selenium on Growth, Yield and Protein Content in Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) Grown in Coastal Saline Soil

K. Sriram — 2026-05-27

Salinity stress severely limits pulse productivity in coastal agro-ecosystems by inducing ionic imbalance and oxidative damage. Although silicon and selenium are known to enhance plant stress tolerance individually, information on their combined application under coastal saline soil conditions is limited. A pot experiment was conducted during January to April 2024 at the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India, to evaluate the interactive effects of silicon and selenium on growth, yield and protein content of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Treatments consisted of graded levels of silicon and selenium applied individually and in combination along with recommended dose of fertilizers. The combined application of selenium at the rate of 2 ppm and silicon at the rate of 50 kg ha⁻¹ significantly improved plant height, dry matter production, nodulation, yield attributes and grain yield (1224 kg ha⁻¹) compared to control. Protein content and protein yield were also maximized under the same treatment. The improved performance may be attributed to enhanced nutrient uptake, improved physiological efficiency and alleviation of salinity-induced stress. The study highlights the synergistic role of silicon and selenium in improving productivity and grain quality of blackgram under coastal saline soil conditions.

Uses and Conservation Practices of Two Plants with Melliferous Potential in the Binah Prefecture of Togo: Vitex doniana Sweet (Lamiaceae) and Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. ex A. DC. (Ebenaceae)

Comlan Mawussi Koudegnan — 2026-05-27

Background: The Sudanese savannas of Togo are rich in wild fruit trees with significant beekeeping and socioeconomic potential, including Vitex doniana Sweet and Diospyros mespiliformis Hochst. These natural melliferous resources are overexploited in certain areas of the country, thus reducing their ecosystem benefits.

Aims: This study, conducted in the Binah prefecture, contributes to improving the sustainable management of spontaneous woody resources.

Methodology: Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and focus groups with a sample of 205 people. These interviews were conducted using a pre-established questionnaire or an interview guide, allowing for the targeting of individuals with proven knowledge of the species or resource persons designated by the groups. The methods of preserving these plants by the local populations were documented during these interviews.

Result: The seven (7) uses of Vitex doniana and Diospyros mespiliformis reported by local populations are: food, medicinal, fodder, timber, fuelwood, crafts, and oral hygiene. Food use was the most frequently cited. Conservation in agroecosystems and home gardens is identified as a key local strategy for managing natural resources. The vulnerability of these two species is a combined consequence of their high use value and their limited local domestication.

Conclusion: It is imperative to provide technical and financial support to local communities in implementing sustainable management strategies for these natural resources of high ecosystem value.

Spatial Variability and GIS-Based Mapping of Soil Physico-Chemical Properties under Different Land Use Systems in Pilibhit District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Rajesh Kumar — 2026-05-28

Spatial variability of soil properties is a common phenomenon in alluvial landscapes due to variations in parent material, topography, land use, drainage conditions, and anthropogenic interventions. Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) analysis provides valuable information regarding the utilization of natural resources and their impact on soil properties and environmental sustainability. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the spatial variability and GIS-based distribution of soil physico-chemical properties under different land use systems of Pilibhit District. A total of 200 geo-referenced surface soil samples (0–15 cm depth) were collected from seven development blocks, namely Amaria, Barkhera, Bilsanda, Bisalpur, Lalaurikheda, Marauri, and Puranpur. Land use and land cover (LULC) analysis was performed using ArcGIS 10.3 and remote sensing techniques. GIS-based spatial interpolation of soil properties was carried out using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method to generate thematic distribution maps. The study area was dominated by agricultural land (71.75%), followed by forest area (18.58%). Soil samples were analyzed for texture, bulk density, porosity, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and available macro- and micronutrients. The soils varied from sandy loam to clay loam in texture, with loam soils being dominant. Soil pH ranged from 6.2 to 7.4, indicating slightly acidic to neutral reaction, while electrical conductivity remained within non-saline limits (<1 dS m⁻¹). Organic carbon content ranged from 0.20 to 1.26%, indicating moderate to high variability. Available nitrogen and zinc were identified as the major limiting nutrients, whereas phosphorus and potassium showed medium fertility status. Secondary nutrients and most micronutrients were generally adequate. GIS-based spatial distribution maps clearly demonstrated considerable heterogeneity in soil properties across different blocks due to variations in parent material, land use, management practices, and depositional environments. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific nutrient management, balanced fertilization, and zinc supplementation for improving soil fertility, sustaining crop productivity, and supporting precision agriculture-based land use planning in Pilibhit district.

Effects of Trellis Techniques on Growth, Development, and Yield of Dioscorea persimilis in Thai Nguyen, Vietnam

Nguyen Minh Tuan — 2026-05-29

Dioscorea persimilis is an important medicinal and nutritional climbing plant widely cultivated in northern Vietnam; however, limited information is available regarding suitable trellis techniques to improve its growth and productivity. The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of different trellis systems on the growth, yield, and economic efficiency of the medicinal plant Dioscorea persimilis in Dinh Hoa district, Thai Nguyen province, Vietnam, during the 2024–2025 growing seasons. The study was arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications included four treatments (T1, T2, T3, and T4). Various agronomic characteristics, yield components, tuber yield, and economic indicators were recorded to determine the suitability of different trellis systems for Hoai Son cultivation. The results revealed significant differences among the treatments at the 95% confidence level. Among the treatments, T2, which using a clustered trellis system, recorded the highest values for plant height (202.3 cm), stem diameter (3.7 mm), leaf length (10.9 cm), leaf width (6.7 cm), tuber weight (0.68 kg), and tuber yield (31.6 t ha⁻¹), along with the greatest economic return compared to the other treatments at the 95% confidence level. The superior performance of the clustered trellis system may be attributed to improved vine support, better canopy distribution, and enhanced light interception, thereby promoting vegetative growth and tuber development. In conclusion, the clustered trellis system is considered a promising cultivation technique for improving the productivity and economic efficiency of Hoai Son production in mountainous regions of northern Vietnam.

Optimizing Weed Management in Polythene Nursery-raised Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) Seedlings: Implications for Seedling Morphology, Transplanting Vigour and Soil Fungal Community Structure

O. Aremu-Dele — 2026-05-30

Background: Weed management in nursery crop production is frequently neglected by farmers, posing a significant threat to seedling quality, growth and transplanting success. In cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) nurseries, weeds compete aggressively with seedlings for light, nutrients and water, and may harbour pathogens detrimental to seedling health, yet the optimal manual weeding frequency remains inadequately defined.

Aim: The study investigates the effects of varying manual weeding frequencies on cashew seedling morphology, transplanting vigour, root characteristics and soil fungal community structure.

Study Design: A Completely randomized design (CRD) was adopted, having six treatments, each replicated three times: weed-free (WF), weedy-check (WC), once-weekly (1W), once-in-two-weeks (2W), once-in-three-weeks (3W) and once-in-four-weeks weeding (4W).

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Oyo State for three months.

Methodology: Cashew nut biotypes were sown in polybags (25 cm × 12.5 cm) with 2 mm-sieved topsoil. Morphological parameters were assessed biweekly from 1 MAS. Destructive sampling at 3 MAS was conducted. Seedling vigour was rated on a five-point scale at 12 WAS. Soil fungi were assessed using standard procedures.

Results: WC recorded the smallest leaf area (31.39 cm²) at 12 WAS while 4W (45.77 cm²) was the largest. WC (2.8) recorded the lowest vigour. Tap root length was significantly greater in 2W (18.2 cm) than WC (14.6 cm). Peak weed density occurred at 2–4 WAS. Initial topsoil recorded the highest fungal CFU. Aspergillus niger and A. fumigatus were ubiquitous, while Fusarium oxysporum and Trichoderma viride varied with weeding frequency.

Conclusion: The critical weed interference period was 2–4 WAS, beyond which cashew canopy development naturally suppressed weed regeneration. Weeding frequency selectively shaped soil fungal community composition. Once-in-four-weeks weeding is recommended as a practical, agronomically sound strategy sustaining acceptable seedling quality while minimizing nursery labour demands.

Agronomic Performance of Solid and Liquid Digestate from Neem Fruit Pulp (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) on Growth and Yield of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) under Tropical Conditions

Djalalou-Dine Memoko — 2026-05-30

Background and Aims: Anaerobic digestion digestates represent a promising organically derived alternative to mineral fertilizers in sustainable agriculture; however, their agronomic efficiency is highly dependent on post-digestion management practices. This study compared the agronomic performance of the solid and liquid fractions of digestate derived from the anaerobic digestion of neem fruit pulp (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.).

Study Design: A randomized complete block design (six treatments, three replications) was established using an isonitrogen application rate of 100 kg N ha⁻¹ (i.e. all treatments supplying the same total nitrogen).

Place and Duration of Study: Agronomic Experimental Station of Lomé (SEAL), Togo, between July 2025 and August 2025.

Methodology: Treatments consisted of an unfertilized control (T0), mineral NPK 15-15-15 fertilizer (TN), ENPRO compost (TC), solid digestate (TSD), liquid digestate (TLD), and a mixed digestate combining 50% solid and 50% liquid fractions (TM). Growth parameters recorded included leaf number, leaf spread diameter, leaf color chart index, and final marketable yield. Treatment effects were assessed using a linear mixed model, with means separated by Tukey's HSD test (P < 0.05).

Results: Phase separation resulted in contrasting chemical profiles: the liquid digestate exhibited a C/N ratio of 7.9, conducive to rapid ammonium nitrogen release, whereas the solid digestate displayed a C/N ratio of 18.2, associated with slower nitrogen mineralization. Mineral fertilizer (TN) achieved the highest yield (14.93 t ha⁻¹), followed by liquid digestate (TLD) at 13.70 t ha⁻¹, a performance not statistically different from TN (P > 0.05), while the overall treatment effect on yield was highly significant (P < 0.001). Compost (TC) and mixed digestate (TM) yielded intermediate and statistically similar results, while solid digestate (TSD) recorded the lowest performance among fertilized treatments (9.00 t ha⁻¹), corroborating the mismatch between its slow nitrogen release kinetics and the short growing cycle of lettuce.

Conclusion: The liquid fraction of neem fruit pulp digestate represents an organically derived alternative whose agronomic efficiency is statistically comparable to that of mineral NPK fertilizer under the conditions of this trial. These findings are based on a single short-cycle trial in which only nitrogen was standardized across treatments, and therefore warrant confirmation under multi-season conditions.

Resource Optimization through Crop Geometry and Fertilizer Management for Sustainable Productivity of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan, India

Anurag Panwar — 2026-06-01

Pearl millet is an important drought-tolerant cereal crop cultivated widely in semi-arid regions of India, where optimum nutrient management and crop geometry play a crucial role in improving productivity and resource-use efficiency. The present investigation was conducted during 2025-26 at the Agronomy Research Farm of Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan to study the effect of fertilizer doses and crop spacing on growth and yield of pearl millet. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications comprising twelve treatment combinations. Four fertility levels (50% RDF, 75% RDF, 100% RDF and 125% RDF) and three spacing treatments (20 cm × 15 cm, 30 cm × 15 cm and 45 cm × 15 cm) were evaluated. The findings revealed that application of 125% RDF recorded significantly higher plant height (67.16 cm at 30 DAS, 180.63 cm at 60 DAS and 210.37 cm at maturity), number of tillers plant⁻¹ (3.03 at 30 DAS, 4.79 at 60 DAS and 3.78 at harvest), dry matter accumulation (8.03, 41.92 and 67.19 g plant⁻¹), crop growth rate and relative growth rate (RGR) and yield attributes including ear head length (25.12 cm), number of grains per panicle (2494.44), grain weight per ear (22.98 g) and 1000-seed weight (9.91 g) and was at par with 100% RDF but significantly higher than 50% RDF. However, plant population was not significantly affected by fertilizer doses. Among spacing treatments, 30 cm × 15 cm spacing was superior, recording higher plant population per plot (470.58 at 20 DAS and 466.00 at maturity), plant height (61.04 cm at 30 DAS, 163.39 cm at 60 DAS and 193.55 cm at maturity), tillers plant⁻¹ (2.71, 4.10 and 3.17), dry matter accumulation (7.41, 35.51 and 59.82 g plant⁻¹) and yield attributes such as ear head length (22.38 cm), number of grains per panicle (2119.75), grain weight per ear (19.78 g) and 1000-seed weight (9.49 g) and was at par with 45 cm × 15 cm but significantly higher than 20 cm × 15 cm. Relative growth rate remained non-significant throughout the crop growth period. The study concludes that application of 100-125% RDF in combination with 30 cm × 15 cm spacing is most suitable for higher growth and productivity of pearl millet under the agro-climatic conditions of Jaipur.

Performance Evaluation of English Cabbage Varieties for Main Season Production in Fiji

Shivam Avishak Ram — 2026-06-01

English cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is an important vegetable crop in Fiji, playing a significant role in local food security and the livelihoods of farmers. However, there is limited information available on the adaptability and performance of different cabbage varieties under the main season growing conditions in Fiji. A study was conducted to evaluate the performance of six English cabbage varieties under field conditions in Fiji, assessing variability in germination, growth, maturity, morphological traits, and yield during the main growing season. The aim was to identify high-performing and adaptable cultivars suitable for local cultivation. The experiment consisted of six varietal treatments arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replicates under field conditions. The results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) among varieties for germination percentage, days to 50% heading, days to maturity, and most vegetative and yield components. Germination ranged widely from 30.07 % to 91.31 %, with V4 (Taiwan 228), V1 (FS Cross), and V6 (Taiwan No. 2) showing the highest establishment. Days to 50% heading and maturity also varied significantly, indicating clear differences in crop duration among varieties. Morphological traits such as plant height, plant width, leaf number, and leaf damage showed significant variation, reflecting strong genetic influence. Yield performance differed markedly, with V6 (Taiwan No. 2) producing the highest head weight (3.39 kg) and yield per hectare (52.04 t/ha), followed by V5 (Taiwan 493) and V4 (Taiwan 228). The V6 (Taiwan No. 2) variety demonstrated superior and stable performance, making it the most suitable variety for cultivation under the given conditions.

Trend analysis of Agro-climatic Determinants for Onion Yield Dynamics in Odisha, India

Sai Sravan Sri Chandan — 2026-06-01

Onion (Allium cepa L.) cultivation in Odisha is significantly affected by climatic variability, requiring a comprehensive study of stage-specific meteorological impacts. This study assesses the long-term trends of critical climatic variables, such as, maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity, precipitation, and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) across six principal onion producing districts of Odisha - Balangir, Angul, Kalahandi, Sundargarh, Subarnapur, and Sambalpur.

The research employs a comprehensive statistical framework, utilizing a 28-year time-series dataset (1996–97 to 2023–24), which includes descriptive statistics and exponential growth models for Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR).

The trend analysis shows that rainfall increased during early growth stage, especially in Angul (2.88% in October) but decreased drastically during winter months particularly in Balangir (-7.54% in February). Maximum temperature also exhibited decreasing patterns during bulb growth stages in Kalahandi (-0.21% in January) and minimum temperature during peak winter with Balangir registering -1.14% in December. PAR showed favorable growth in the first growth period as Angul reported 0.85% in September and downward tendencies in the latter stages. Relative humidity showed increasing trends during mid-season months especially in Kalahandi (0.93% in December) indicating beneficial moisture conditions during crop growth. The results give us a number-based way to make climate adaptation plans at the district level that will help smallholder farmers in Odisha keep their yields stable.

Agromorphological Characterization and Agronomic Assessment of Corchorus aestuans L.: A Traditional Leafy Vegetable from Burkina Faso

Sawadogo Zakaridja — 2026-06-01

This study presents an agromorphological characterisation of 20 accessions of Corchorus aestuans L. from four provinces in Burkina Faso. The objective was to contribute to a better understanding of the agromorphological diversity of Corchorus aestuans L. in Burkina Faso. To this end, 26 traits, including 14 qualitative and 12 quantitative ones, were evaluated. The study was conducted over two rainy growing seasons (2021 and 2022) at the IRD experimental station in Gampéla using randomized complete block design with three replications. The results showed high agromorphological variability, leading to the identification of two morphotypes, purplish-red and purple. The best performances for the traits studied (petiole length, leaf length and width, peduncle length, fruit length and diameter, plant height, stem diameter, and number of branches) were obtained in 2022. Strong accession x year interactions were observed for all traits studied. Hierarchical Ascending Classification (HAC) using Ward’s aggregation method and Euclidean distance allowed the accessions to be grouped into three clusters based on the agronomic traits. Group I consisted of accessions with the shortest growth cycle (54.61 days), the lowest number of branches (10.95), and the lowest leaf mass production (87.59 g fresh mass and 29.81 g dry mass). Group II consisted of large-sized accessions (50.90 cm), highly branched (13.94) with robust stems (1.10 cm) and the highest leaf mass (106.41 g fresh mass and 35.09 g dry mass). Finally, Group III was characterised by accessions with a long growth cycle (61.10 days).

Physio-Chemical Properties, Growth Activities in Ground Nut (Arachis Hypogaea) by Individual and Mixed Soils (Red Soil, Black Soil, and Alluvial Soil) from Delta Zone of Tamilnadu, India

Manikandan Murugaiyan — 2026-06-01

Background: Soil physico-chemical characteristics strongly influence plant growth and agricultural productivity, particularly in nutrient-demanding crops such as groundnut (Arachis hypogaea). Red, black, and alluvial soils of the Tamil Nadu delta region exhibit distinct fertility profiles, and their mixing may modify nutrient availability and crop performance.

Aim: This study systematically evaluated the effects of individual and mixed soil systems on soil properties and groundnut growth responses.

Methods: A controlled experimental study was conducted using red soil, black soil, and alluvial soil collected from Pudukottai, Coimbatore, and Thanjavur districts of Tamil Nadu, India. Soil samples were analyzed individually and in equal combinations (1:1 and 1:1:1). Physico-chemical parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, texture, water-holding capacity, organic carbon, and macronutrients (N, P, K) were assessed using standard laboratory methods (Walkley–Black, Kjeldahl, Olsen, and flame photometry). Groundnut seeds were grown in each soil type under controlled conditions for 30 days. Growth performance (germination, plant height, leaf and branch number) and biochemical parameters (chlorophyll, moisture, and ash content) were recorded and compared across treatments.

Results: Mixed soil treatments showed improved physico-chemical properties compared to individual soils, with higher organic carbon (0.25–0.64%), nitrogen (50–72.4 kg/ha), phosphorus (7–10 kg/ha), and potassium (85–500 kg/ha). Soil pH remained moderately alkaline (7.9–8.4) across all treatments. Water-holding capacity and nutrient retention were notably higher in mixed soils, particularly in black–alluvial and tri-soil combinations. Enhanced plant growth was observed in mixed soils, with maximum plant height reaching 25 cm and improved leaf and branch formation. The red–black–alluvial (1:1:1) combination recorded the highest chlorophyll content (13.6 µg/100 mg fresh leaf), along with improved moisture and ash content. Germination and plumule development were also faster and more uniform in mixed soil systems.

Conclusion: The blending of red, black, and alluvial soils significantly enhances soil fertility and improves groundnut growth performance. Mixed soil systems optimize nutrient availability, moisture retention, and overall soil quality, making them more suitable for sustainable agricultural and horticultural applications. The study highlights soil blending as an effective strategy for improving crop productivity in deltaic regions of Tamil Nadu.

Assessment of Vegetable Agrosystem of Kodéni in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso: Balancing Pest Pressure and Smallholder Phytosanitary Practices

Hélène Milogo — 2026-06-02

Vegetable growing plays an economic, social, and ecological role in the city of Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. However, large-scale urbanization, ongoing ecosystem degradation, and intense pest pressure are undermining the productivity and profitability of vegetable growing in Bobo-Dioulasso. Given this situation, an assessment of smallholder farming practices is necessary to enhance the sustainability of the agrosystem vegetables of Kodéni in the city of Bobo-Dioulasso. Accordingly, a survey of smallholder practices was conducted among 30 farms at the site. Soil samples were collected to determine the soil’s sanitary and physicochemical quality. The results revealed that vegetable farmers practiced intercropping and crop rotation on small plots (1,235 m² ± 684.84 m²). The pests identified were caterpillars, mites, and snails. The soil health analysis revealed a high prevalence of soil-borne fungal pathogens, with major species including Fusarium oxysporum (100%), Fusarium solani (48.7%), Fusarium equiseti (41.2%), and Colletotrichum dematium (37.3%). The physicochemical analysis of the soil showed a high level of fertility (pH = 6.83 ± 0.52; organic matter = 1.38 ± 0.47) compared to the general level of soil fertility in Burkina Faso. In response to pest pressure, vegetable farmers applied a variety of pesticide products, 33.33% of which are not registered for vegetable cultivation, and half of these pesticides are classified as highly hazardous. Producers also used excessive doses of chemicals, with a phytosanitary treatment frequency (IFT) reaching 34, 30,14, and 13 (doses/ha) for tomatoes, cabbage, peppers, and lettuce, respectively. For the sustainable management of the Kodéni vegetable-growing area, it would be necessary to provide guidance to producers on the responsible use of pesticides and to initiate a new focus on agroecology.

Effect of Different Planting Geometry and Nitrogen Levels on Quality, Nutrient Uptake and Economics of Rice Crop (Oryza sativa L.)

Pradeep Kumar — 2026-06-02

Planting geometry also interacts significantly with nitrogen management, as plant density influences nutrient uptake efficiency and resource utilisation. A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at the research farm of the College of Agriculture, Kaul (Kaithal), CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, to evaluate the effect of planting geometry and nitrogen levels on quality, nutrient uptake and economics of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.) variety HKR-128. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomised block design with three planting geometries (20 × 15 cm, 20 × 20 cm and random transplanting) in main plots and five nitrogen levels (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N ha⁻¹) in sub-plots, replicated thrice. The experimental data were analysed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the OPSTAT software developed by CCS Haryana Agricultural University. Results indicated that planting geometry had no significant effect on hulling recovery, milling recovery, head rice recovery or protein content. However, nutrient uptake (N, P and K) by grain and straw was significantly higher under 20 × 15 cm spacing. Nitrogen application significantly improved grain quality parameters and nutrient uptake, with the highest values recorded at 200 kg N ha⁻¹, statistically at par with 150 kg N ha⁻¹. Economic analysis revealed that maximum net returns and benefit-to-cost ratio were obtained with 150 kg N ha⁻¹, while planting geometry of 20 × 15 cm resulted in higher profitability compared to other spacings. The study concludes that 20 × 15 cm spacing combined with 150 kg N ha⁻¹ is most economical and productive for transplanted rice under the agro-climatic conditions of Haryana.

Soil Erodibility Across Land Use and Slope Gradients in Tokat Province, Türkiye

Saniye Demir — 2026-06-03

Background: Soil erosion is a major form of land degradation in Türkiye, where steep topography, intensive land use, and changing climatic conditions increase soil susceptibility to erosion. Understanding how land use and slope gradients influence soil erodibility is therefore essential for sustainable soil management and conservation planning.

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the relationships between land-use patterns, slope gradients, and soil erodibility in Tokat Province, Türkiye.

Study Design: The study was a comparative, field-based soil erosion assessment across different land-use and slope classes.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Tokat Province, Türkiye, and soil samples were collected and analyzed between April and October 2024.

Methodology: A total of 108 soil samples were collected from 0–20 cm soil depth under 0–5%, 6–29%, and >30% slope classes. Aggregate stability (AS), structural stability (SS), dispersion ratio (DR), and erosion ratio (ER) were evaluated under different crop management systems. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the relationships among soil erodibility parameters and topographic conditions.

Results: Cropland soils exhibited the highest dispersion ratio values (78.8 ± 2.1%), whereas forest soils showed lower dispersion ratio values (66.9 ± 2.4%) and greater structural stability. Similarly, erosion ratio values were highest in croplands (84.86 ± 0.82%) and lowest in forest lands (79.06 ± 4.38%). Forest ecosystems maintained higher and more stable aggregate stability values (57.47–60.21%) than cropland (45.83–57.98%) and pasturelands (47.31–57.39%). A significant inverse relationship was observed between dispersion ratio and structural stability, indicating that greater dispersion potential increased susceptibility to aggregate degradation. Regression analysis also demonstrated a strong negative relationship between structural stability and the erosion ratio, confirming that structural stability is an important indicator of soil resistance to erosion. Aggregate stability decreased with increasing slope gradient, particularly in anthropogenically disturbed lands, whereas forest cover effectively reduced the negative effects of topography on soil properties.

Conclusion: The results demonstrated that land use, slope conditions, and soil properties significantly influence soil erodibility. Natural vegetation cover improved soil resistance through higher organic matter accumulation and root development. Structural stability was identified as one of the most important factors controlling soil erodibility in the study area.

Influence of Weed and Nitrogen Management on Growth, Productivity and Economics of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

Lokesh Kumar — 2026-06-03

Background: Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) productivity is often constrained by severe weed competition and improper nitrogen management, which adversely affect crop growth, yield, and nutrient use efficiency. Integrated weed and nitrogen management is therefore essential to enhance productivity and profitability under semi-arid conditions.

Methods: A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2021–22 at the Agronomy Research Farm, SGT University, Gurugram, Haryana. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications, comprising four weed management treatments (W₁: weedy check, W₂: weed-free, W₃: metsulfuron, W₄: 2,4-D) Observations on growth, yield attributes, yield, nitrogen uptake, and economics were recorded and analyzed statistically.

Results: Weed management and nitrogen levels significantly influenced growth, yield attributes, and productivity of barley. Treatment W₂ and W₃ improved plant growth, dry matter accumulation, and yield attributes over W₁. Among nitrogen levels, N₃ recorded superior performance, followed by N₂. Grain yield, biological yield, and nitrogen uptake increased with effective weed control and higher nitrogen levels. Among interaction W₂* N₂ showed maximum productivity and nutrient uptake.W₃ resulted in higher profitability, while N₃ recorded maximum returns, though N₂ was more cost-effective.

Assessment of Somatic Mutagenic Effects on Different Black Gram Varieties by Chemical Mutagen Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS)

K. Mohana Sundaram — 2026-06-03

Black gram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper], a nutritionally rich pulse crop, suffers from narrow genetic variability due to its cleistogamous nature, limiting conventional breeding progress. Induced mutagenesis using chemical mutagens offers a viable approach to generate novel genetic variability. This study evaluated the somatic mutagenic effects of Ethyl Methane Sulfonate (EMS) at five concentrations (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, and 0.5%) on two black gram varieties, VBN 8 and VBN 10, using germination towel and pro-tray methods. Parameters assessed included germination percentage, root length, shoot length, germination index, and chlorophyll content. Results demonstrated a significant dose-dependent reduction in all growth parameters with increasing EMS concentration in both varieties and methods. In the germination towel method, VBN 8 showed germination percentages ranging from 72.5% (0.1%) to 60.0% (0.5%), while VBN 10 exhibited a sharper decline from 72.5% to 47.5%. Root length reduction reached 66.81% in VBN 8 and 65.21% in VBN 10 at 0.5% EMS. Similarly, shoot length reduction was more pronounced in VBN 8 (73.5%) compared to VBN 10 (22.16%) at the highest dose. The LD50 was projected at approximately 0.4–0.5% EMS for both varieties. Chlorophyll content exhibited irregular variation, suggesting differential mutagenic sensitivity between genotypes. These findings establish the baseline mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of EMS for future M₂ generation screening programs aimed at developing improved black gram genotypes with enhanced yield, quality, and stress tolerance. The present investigation comprehensively established the dose-dependent somatic mutagenic effects of EMS on two elite black gram varieties, VBN 8 and VBN 10, under both germination towel and pro-tray conditions.

Fertilizer Use Efficiency in Climate-smart Agriculture: Balancing Yield, Emissions, and Soil Health

Himshikha — 2026-05-28

Global agriculture faces a compound challenge: producing sufficient food for a growing population while dramatically reducing its environmental footprint. Fertilizers—particularly synthetic nitrogen compounds—underpin modern crop yields, yet their overuse drives nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions, nitrogen leaching, soil acidification, and threats to planetary biogeochemical cycles. Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) offers an integrative framework that seeks simultaneously to raise productivity, build resilience, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Central to this framework is fertilizer use efficiency (FUE), defined broadly as the ratio of crop output relative to nutrient inputs. This critical review synthesises evidence across the global literature on the agronomic, environmental, and soil-health dimensions of FUE in CSA systems. Drawing on peer-reviewed research published predominantly since 2001 to present; it evaluates the mechanisms by which conventional fertilizer management contributes to GHG emissions and soil degradation; examines enhanced-efficiency fertilizers, precision agriculture, integrated soil fertility management, biochar, cover crops, and biological nitrogen fixation as mitigation pathways; and assesses the tensions between maximising yield and minimising environmental harm. The review identifies significant advances in FUE technologies and management but also highlights persistent knowledge gaps, particularly around context-specific adoption barriers in smallholder systems, long-term soil health trajectories, and coherent policy architectures. A synthesis of the evidence suggests that no single intervention is adequate; rather, portfolios of complementary, site-adapted practices—underpinned by robust policy incentives—are necessary to reconcile food security, climate mitigation, and soil health within planetary boundaries.

Climate-Resilient Cultivation of Rice under Agronomic Bio-fortification with Iron and Zinc

S. S. T Aarthi — 2026-05-28

Iron and zinc deficiencies are the major global public health challenges, in rice-dependent regions. The nutritional intakes fall short of the Recommended Dietary Allowances due to deficiencies in two important micronutrients, leading to low productivity, widespread malnutrition, impaired cognitive development, and weakened immunity. Rice is a staple food for most of the Asian continent, but conventional practice like the transplanted method leads to higher environmental pollution. Hence, direct-seeded rice is a more sustainable alternative. Bio-fortification of rice offers a sustainable and cost-effective strategy to enhance grain micronutrient quantity and improve nutritional security among people with limited access to diverse foods. Among the various bio-fortification pathways, agronomic bio-fortification has emerged as a practical approach that can be readily integrated into the prevailing production systems. This review highlights about nutri-priming which enhances early seedling vigour and micronutrient uptake, soil fertilisation which helps in creating baseline nutrient reserves, foliar application which is essential for guarantee micronutrient delivery at critical growth stages and microbial inoculants, such as iron and zinc solubilizing bacteria to improve micronutrient availability through biochemical transformation. Optimization of the agronomic bio-fortification protocols along with their integration with the recommended dose of fertilizers can substantially contribute to reducing micronutrient deficiency and achieving long-term nutritional resilience.

Rhizosphere Enzyme Dynamics: Spatial and Temporal Regulation by Plant Growth, Root Architecture, and Soil Microbiome Interactions

V. R. Senthamizhkumaran — 2026-06-01

The rhizosphere represents one of the biochemically active microenvironments in terrestrial ecosystems, where bidirectional fluxes of carbon compounds, ions, enzymes, and signaling molecules govern the nutritional and structural dynamics of plant-soil systems. Extracellular enzyme activities serve as integrative biomarkers of rhizosphere function, reflecting the combined metabolic contributions of plant roots, associated microorganisms, and their residues. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the spatial and temporal regulation of enzyme activities in the rhizosphere, with particular emphasis on the roles of root morphology, plant developmental stage, rhizodeposition chemistry, and abiotic environmental drivers. We examine how root architectural traits including root hair density, lateral root proliferation, and fine root turnover — modulate the volume and intensity of enzymatic hotspots. The roles of key hydrolase and oxidoreductase families (glucosidases, phosphatases, proteases, chitinases, and lactases) are discussed in relation to carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycling within the rhizosphere. We further address how soil physicochemical properties (pH, moisture, texture, and sorption capacity) modulate enzyme persistence and diffusion gradients from root surfaces. Advances in two-dimensional zymographic imaging have revealed previously unresolved spatial heterogeneity in enzyme distribution, yet critical gaps remain in understanding the enzyme-level links between root ontogeny and microbial community assembly. Future research priorities include integrating zymography with stable isotope probing, metatranscriptomics, and functional genomics to attribute enzymatic activity to specific biotic sources. Such integrated approaches will be essential for leveraging rhizosphere enzyme ecology in designing sustainable agricultural strategies that minimize fertilizer inputs and enhance nutrient-use efficiency.