ABSTRACTS OF PAPERS

¹National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute, Sector-81 (Knowledge City), S.A.S. Nagar, Mohali-140306, Punjab, India. ²Dr. S. S. Bhatnagar University Institute of Chemical Engineering and Technology (SSBUICET), Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India. ³Department of Molecular Science, BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, P.O. Box 7015, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden. Corresponding e-mail: koushik@nabi.res.in, kmazumder78@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.48

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Abstract: The effects of controlled atmosphere (CA) storage on postharvest qualities of apple (Royal Delicious) were investigated. Compared to the postharvest quality of fresh apple (0 day) a significant change in the fruit qualities such as respiration rate, firmness, ripening, color, low molecular weight sugar, enzyme activity and concentrations of volatile compounds were observed during CA storage. After 90 days CA storage, apples showed a significant increase in respiration rate (58.7%), ripening index (13.9%) and reduction in firmness (35.8%) compared to fresh apples. During 90 days CA storage, the apple aroma volatile compounds showed a significant increase in their total concentrations from 151.2 µg/kg to 280.7 µg/kg compared to initial storage, followed by a remarkable decrease to 141.8µg/kg during 180 days of storage. Therefore, the study enables us to conclude that the prolonged CA storage of apples significantly reduced fruit quality.

Department of Agriculture, Fukui Prefectural Wakasa-Higashi High School, Obama, Fukui 917-0293, Japan. Corresponding e-mail: uwabamisou.mizu@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.70

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Abstract: The suppression effect of white light-emitting diode (LED) on spindly growth observed under monochromatic light of the red LED in watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br.) was investigated for production in plant factory. Watercress was cultured in a growth chamber under total photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of 100 ?mol?m^?2?s^?1 using three differential treatments; the ratio of red LED to white LED based on PPFD was 100:0 (R100W0), 90:10 (R90W10), and 75:25 (R75W25). Watercress was harvested 33 days after sowing. The longest internode length was observed with R100W0. Watercress in R100W0 was observed lowest value for node number, maximum leaf length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, dry matter rate, and SPAD. R90W10 recorded higher values for maximum leaf length, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, dry matter rate, and SPAD than R100W0. Therefore, in watercress cultivation, replacing the red LED with a white LED by 10% was effective for morphological changes and dry matter production.

¹Department of Horticulture, ²Department of Mathematics and Statistics, ³Department of Microbiology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India. Corresponding e-mail: sudha.bishnoi@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.49

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Abstract: The quality of agricultural production and their modulation by biofertilizer application has gradually received attention. However, the importance of Bacillus strains has not been studied extensively especially in strawberry. The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of Bacillus strains on growth, yield and quality of strawberry cv. Chandler during the year 2016-17 and 2017-18. The study indicates that various Bacillus strains significantly influenced growth, yield and quality of fruits. Among different Bacillus strains, HCA61 strain recorded the significantly higher fruit yield per plant (233.69 g). It also recorded the highest value concerning different growth parameters, viz., plant height (12.56 cm), spread (22.78 cm), number of leaves per plant (11.31), crown diameter (12.46 mm), fresh weight (43.86 g) and dry weight (12.36 g) of plant with minimum number of days (79.50 days) to flower in strawberry plants. Among different yield attributing characters like number of fruits per plant (22.13), fresh weight of fruit (10.56 g), fruit length (40.31 mm), fruit breadth (28.83) and moisture content in fruit (92.83%), HCA61 strain showed superiority than other Bacillus strains. Regarding various physicochemical characters, viz. TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid and anthocyanin content of fruits, Bacillus RCA3 strain, exhibited significantly highrt values. The Bacillus strain HCA61 caused improved growth and yield. However, concerning the physicochemical characteristics of fruits Bacillus RCA3 strain was found best. The results indicated that inoculation with Bacillus strains could be an eco-friendly and cost-effective technology for improving strawberry growth, yield and quality.

Department of Vegetable Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, P.O.Box 123613, Giza, Egypt, Corresponding e-mail: haitham.mohamed@agr.cu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.50

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Abstract: A field experiment was carried out in two successive seasons of 2019 and 2020 on the late planting of carrot cv. Shantiny in El-Badrasheen, Giza, Egypt to study the effect of sowing dates and foliar spray applications by using some growth natural and chemical stimulants to increase the plants' ability to withstand heat stress. The experiment was established in a split-plot design with two sowing dates during 15 February and 15 March as the main factors and six treatments of exogenous foliar spray applications as submain factors as follows: untreated plants (control); potassium silicate K-Si at 2g/L; salicylic acid at 2mM; glycine betaine at 100 mM; moringa leaf extract (MLE) at 3.3% and date palm pollen grain extract (DPPGE) at 2g/L. Results revealed that sowing carrots in February significantly increased vegetative growth characteristics, i.e., plant height in both seasons and fresh and dry weight in the second season. Also, the fresh weight of roots in the second season and total marketable yield in both seasons were significantly increased with February sowing. All chemical parameters, either quality or heat indicators, were enhanced considerably with March sowing as a reaction to heat stress. Moreover, all foliar spray treatments gained the higher significant values of vegetative growth, yield, quality characteristics, and chemical parameters [N, P, K, Ca, Mg, proline, antioxidant activity DPPH, total carbohydrates, total carotenoids, total chlorophyll, and total phenols] as compared with untreated plants. In conclusion, foliar spray treatments with MLE and DPPGE are promising materials for heat stress-tolerant applications.

¹Department of Plant Production, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, 22110, Irbid, Jordan. ²National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), PO Box 639, Baqa'a 19381, Jordan. Corresponding e-mail: abdallah.aldahadha@narc.gov.jo

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.71

¹Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Dr YSP, UHF, Solan-173230, HP, India; ²ICAR-IARI, Regional Station, Katrain Kullu, HP, India; ³Department of Fruit Sciences, Dr YSP, UHF, Solan-173230, HP, India. Corresponding e-mail: sngta2017@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.51

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Abstract: Genotypes grown in multi-environmental trials may respond differently to a range of climatic factors, soil characteristics and cultural management practices. As such, the proportion of the variation in the phenotypic traits due to the main effects of genotype, environment and their interaction is routinely assessed when selecting best-performing lines. Keeping this in mind, the present study was carried out to find the stable Lilium genotypes evaluated over two locations for two years in a Randomized Block Design along with three replications. Eighteen diverse genotypes of Lilium were assessed for twenty different vegetative, flowering and bulb parameters. Genotype “Eyeliner” indicated stability for the majority of parameters, including days to bulb sprout emergence, bud length, number of flowers/stem, weight of bulblets, and vase life, while genotype “Yelloween” exhibited stability for a variety of parameters, including leaf length, bud length, size of flower, and days to first flower, and is suitable for a variety of environments.

¹Charles Darwin Research Station, Charles Darwin Foundation, Santa Cruz, Galápagos, Ecuador. ² Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain. Address: 200105 Puerto Ayora, Charles Darwin Foundation, Av. Charles Darwin s/n, Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. Corresponding e-mail: patricia.jaramillo@fcdarwin.org.ec

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.52

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Abstract: We tested the effect of two water-saving systems (Groasis Waterboxx® and Hydrogel polymer), compared with conventional drip irrigation, on the productivity, profitability, and water efficiency of greenhouse tomato cultivation in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos. We measured the weight and volume of individual tomato fruits, along with biweekly production, over a typical growing cycle, and found that tomatoes grown with water-saving systems were significantly heavier and larger than those produced with conventional drip irrigation, which led to a 28% average increase in tomato production using both technologies. compared to drip irrigation, Groasis and Hydrogel also reduced water use by 71 and 48%, respectively. While both systems yielded a net profit, using Hydrogel was 51% more profitable than conventional drip irrigation. Water-saving systems such as Groasis and Hydrogel may provide more sustainable solutions for profitable tomato cultivation in environments with low annual rainfall and limited access to irrigation water, such as the Galapagos Islands.

¹Division of Floriculture and Medicinal Crops, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru-560 089, India. ²School of Agriculture, Graphic Era Hill University, Nainital (263139), Uttarakhand, India. Corresponding e-mail: nsbhandari@gehu.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.53

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Abstract: Pollen is the first choice of germplasm curator, geneticist, breeder and physiologist for conservation and crop improvement programs. A pollen palynological attributes and pollen germination study of Lilium longiflorum cv., 'Pavia' was conducted using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Various morphological characteristics were studied. The results showed that pollens were much alike in ultra-morphology with elliptical to ellipsoidal shape, reticulate exine and single germination ditch. The pollen viability was tested by the wet room method with 3 dyes; Acetocarmine, TTC, Lugol's iodine and 49.66% pollen viability was recorded with Acetocarmine dye; which suggested acetocarmine stain can be as a quick test method for pollen viability. The pollen germination ability was examined at set intervals, thereby establishing the dynamics of this process for 72 hours. Pollens collected just 1 h after anthesis were recorded with highest germination (85%) compared to pollen harvested before or one day after. The suitable medium for pollen germination was 3% sucrose and 15% PEG that recorded with highest pollen germination (95%) after 72 h of inoculation. Understanding evolutionary ecology and the sterility problem and designing hybridization programmes in cross-breeding necessitates a thorough understanding of pollen morphology and viability. Pollen ultra-morphology traits could be helpful in determining the evolutionary relationship of lilies.

¹Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. ²Central Laboratory, Research and Development, Date Palms, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: abdo.abdullatif@agr.cu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.54

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Abstract: The present investigation was carried out during two successive seasons of 2018 / 2019 and 2019/ 2020 on 15 years old date palm trees of Zaghloul cv. grown in sandy soil in a private orchard at El-Behira governorate, Egypt. The research was aimed to investigate the effect of nitrogen and potassium nano-fertilizers comparing with conventional mineral fertilizers on yield and fruit quality, four doses of nitrogen and potassium nano-fertilizer (75, 150, 300 and 600g/ palm/ year) were applied compared to the conventional nitrogen and potassium mineral fertilizers as a control. Different fertilization treatments significantly affected palm yield and fruit quality during both seasons. Treatment of 600g of nano N and K fertilizers produced higher values of tree yield and bunch weight, fruit volume, and fruit length in both seasons. Meanwhile, 600g of nano-fertilizer and control treatments gave the highest fruit and flesh weight. The obtained results also showed fruit content of total soluble solids, total and reducing sugars was significantly increased by nano-fertilizer treatment at 600 and 300g per palm and improved significantly N, P, and K content. Whereas treatment with 75 and 150g nano-fertilizer gave higher values of total tannins and total phenols contents in Zaghloul fruits in both seasons. According to the current study, nano-fertilizer improved date palm yield, fruit quality and nutritional status.

¹ICAR-Centrals Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rahmankheda, PO, Kakori 226101, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, ²ICAR: IIHR- Central Horticultural Experiment Station, Aiginia, PO, DHBC, 751019, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. Corresponding e-mail: gundappa@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.55

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Abstract: The investigations on varietal (30) reaction and impact of inflorescence midge Procontarinia mangiferae (Felt) control practices on fruit retention and yield of mango variety Amrapali were carried out in the east coast region of India. Results revealed that the incidence of midge among the genotypes varied significantly (F_{29, 58} = 25.88; P<0.00). The lowest incidence was recorded on Neelgoa (16.15%) followed by Neeleshan (26.1%) and the highest in Alphanso (86.27%), Totapuri (86.42%), H-39(87.39%), Amrapali (88.69%), and Lalsundari (89.48%). Based on the relative susceptibility of the genotypes (percent damage to blossom), genotypes were grouped in different categories. Every variety retained the fruits irrespective level of plant damage to the floral bud, having diverse genetic potential the fruit weight had no correlation with fruit number. The impact studies of midge control measure in Amrapali revealed that the floral damage in untreated plants ranged between 73.69-91.37 percent and 61.47-75.47 percent in treated trees. The fruit number at the harvesting stage ranged between 2.80-4.00/ panicle and 3.1-4.20/ panicle with a fruit weight ranging from 1.10 -1.43 and 1.23-1.50 kg/panicle, respectively.It was concluded that though the percent flower damage, fruit number, and yield per panicle differed significantly in treated and untreated trees, this statistical significance may not be of great economic importance at the maturity stage as 3-4 fruits per bunch in Amrapali gives standard yield.

Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, India- 695522. Corresponding e-mail: revathysathyakumar@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.56

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Abstract: Polyploidy induction plays a significant role in hybridizing and improving orchids (Orchidaceae). Induction of polyploidy can help to restore fertility by doubling of chromosomes and thus leading to the creation of allotetraploids which can help breeders develop improved hybrids and novel types by contributing beautiful floral or growth characteristics unobtainable from the diploid forms. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effective colchicine concentration and duration of exposure for the polyploidy induction in Dendrobium crumenatum via in vivo method, thus improving the flower characteristics. For the in vivo induction of polyploidy, D. crumenatum plantlets were chosen and subjected to eight different colchicine treatments. Treatments were based on colchicine concentration (0.05 and 0.1%) and the duration of exposure of plantlets to these doses of colchicine (24, 48, 72 and 96 hrs). The morphological characters, like shoot length, diameter of pseudobulb, number of leaves and width of leaves showed treatment mean values greater than their corresponding control plantlets. After analyzing the histogram peaks of in vivo treated samples, it was observed that the highest tetraploid induction (50%) was achieved with the treatment of 0.05% colchicine for 96 hours. Moreover, the maximum mixoploids (66.67%) were obtained from two different treatments; first, with 0.05% colchicine for 72 hours and second, with 0.05% colchicine for 48 hours. These results suggest that longer treatment duration of 96 hours with 0.05% colchicine leads to higher tetraploid induction while shorter durations of 72 and 48 hours with the same concentration of colchicine are more effective for producing mixoploids. Stomatal observations exhibited a lower stomatal density, but increased stomatal size in polyploids than diploids.

¹ICAR - Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Regional Research Station, Kukma, Bhuj – 370 105 (Gujarat) India. ²ICAR - Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kukma, Bhuj – 370 105 (Gujarat) India. Corresponding e-mail: rahul2iari@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.57

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Abstract: Current emphasis on food supply, market value, and therapeutic use of underutilised crops makes Grewia tenax suitable for commercial production. Therefore, flowering biology and fruiting phenology study were carried out on field-established G. tenax plants in Kachchh, Gujarat, from February - March 2018. Flowers are scented and cream-white with yellow stamens and composed of 5 petals and sepals, an ovary and a style, 2 anther lobes and many anthers (66.33 ± 7.51). Bud initiation started in the last week of February and anthesis was observed after 6.40 ± 0.18 days of bud initiation. Flower anthesis start at 1130 h and is completed at 1330 h, with peak anthesis during 1215-1230 h in February. On an average, 15.55±0.98 and 19.55±0.98 days are required for fruit maturity and ripening. The study revealed that the fruit traits of the white cross berries, including fruit length and diameter, varied within the ranges of 4.93-6.69 mm and 4.06-5.91 mm, respectively. As there is limited information available on this species, these findings provide a foundation for further genetic research on white cross berries. This study can serve as a valuable resource for future investigations aiming to enhance our understanding of the genetic makeup of this species and potentially improve its fruit traits through breeding programs.

¹CFDT, TANUVAS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India– 600 052. ²Department of Food Processing Technology, CFDT, TANUVAS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India– 600 052. ³Faculty of Food Sciences, CFDT, TANUVAS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India – 600 052. ⁴Faculty of Basic Sciences, MVC, TANUVAS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India – 600 007. ⁵Department of Food Process Engineering, CFDT, TANUVAS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India– 600 052. Corresponding e-mail: ritanarayanan@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.58

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Abstract: Bael (Aegle marmelos) and wood apple (Limonia acidissima L) are indigenous and underutilized fruits with high potential to use in various food applications, and these are seasonal fruits and perishable making them go waste. Hence this study aimed to process their pulp into powders and analyze physical and functional properties to find their applicability in different foods. Bael and wood apple pulps were dried in a hot air oven at 65 and 60^o C for 670 and 720 mins, respectively. The bael fruit powder (BFP) and wood apple powder (WAP) yield after drying in these fruits was 33.89 and 29.62 g%, respectively. The final moisture content and water activity of the powders were 7.96±0.78, 7.34±0.72 and 0.327±0.12 and 0.314±0.17, respectively. Bulk and tapped densities values for both powders were high, resulting in higher Carr's Index and Hausner's Ratio indicating inferior flowability. The water absorption capacity of BFP (1.31±3.27g/g) was higher than WAP (1.15±3.28g). The oil absorption capacity of WAP was 101.19±1.46% and BFP was 101.86±1.85% which is higher than the water absorption capacities of both powders. The swelling capacities, solubility of BFP and WAP were 4.39±0.01, 4.15±0.02 mL/g and 97.67±0.06, 98.45±0.02%, respectively. Foaming capacities for BFP and WAP were 23.45±0.09 mL and 25.62±0.06 mL, respectively. Both fruit powders did not form strong gels even at 20%. The results showed that these fruit powders can potentially be used in fiber-enriched and other new food formulations.

¹Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, C.P. College of Agriculture, S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar- 385 506, Gujarat, India. ²Castor Mustard Research Station, S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar- 385 506, Gujarat, India. ³Department of Seed Technology, S.D. Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar- 385 506, Gujarat, India. Corresponding e-mail: dhavalp.hansaliya@gmail.com)

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.59

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Abstract: The investigation on the effect of seed priming treatment on cumin [Cuminum cyminum (L.)] seed germination and growth was carried out at Seed Technology Laboratory, Department of Genetics and plant breeding, SDAU, Sardarkrushinagar, during Rabi 2019-20. Seeds of Gujarat Cumin-1, Gujarat Cumin-2, Gujarat Cumin-3 and Gujarat Cumin-4 were were treated with five treatments viz., Control, -1.4 MPa PEG, -1.0 MPa PEG, 0.2% KNO3 and 0.4% KNO3. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (factorial concept) with three replications comprising five treatment combinations. The combined effect of pre-sowing seed treatment and varieties showed a significant effect on seed germination and growth of the seedling. The variety GC-4 was superior to the variety GC-1, GC-2, and GC-3. The analysis of data collected under laboratory conditions for the variety GC-4 and treatment T3 (-1.0 MPa PEG) combination revealed characteristics such as the highest germination percentage (80.81%), the longest root length (5.20 cm), the longest shoot length (4.61 cm), the longest seedling length (9.59 cm), the highest seedling fresh weight (216.40 mg), the highest seedling dry weight (11.81 mg), the highest seedling vigour index-I (812.47) and the highest seedling vigour index-II (952.70).

¹Pomology Department, National Research Center, 33 Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, Egypt. ²Horticultural Crops Technology Department, National Research Center, 33 Bohouth St., Dokki, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: dorriaahmed@hotmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.60

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Abstract: Mango, a highly perishable fruit, faces challenges in maintaining its quality during postharvest handling due to rapid ripening. To address this, hot water treatment (HW) has gained global recognition for its potential in enhancing the shelf life and overall quality of mango produce. This study, spanning the 2019 and 2020 seasons, focused on hot water dipping (HWD) treatments at 45 or 50°C for 5 and 10 minutes, followed by simulated shipping storage at 8±2°C and 90-95% relative humidity for three weeks, and subsequent ripening at 20°C. Using sensory evaluations through the Hedonic test, our findings after 21 days of ripening storage revealed that the HWD treatment at 50°C for 10 minutes yielded significantly higher scores for firmness, texture, and pulp color (3.49, 3.00, and 5.00, respectively) compared to untreated mangoes, which scored lower (1.15, 2.00, and 4.67). A gradual improvement in aroma and flavor scores was observed, with the 50°C, 10-minute treatment recording the highest scores (4.67 and 3.67), while control fruits exhibited the lowest taste scores (3.00 and 2.33). These results highlight the potential of HWD treatments, particularly at 50°C for 10 minutes, in enhancing mango quality and extending its shelf life.

Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala Agricultural University, India 695522, Kerala Corresponding e-mail: geetha.lekshmi@kau.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.61

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Abstract: Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) is an attractive tropical fruit due to its hairy appearance, red and yellow pericarp shades, and green-tipped hair-like spinterns. The fruits are highly perishable, non-climacteric and the browning of spintern and pericarp reduce their marketability and limit shelf life The present study evaluated the efficacy of aloe gel coating in reducing the spintern browning of rambutan fruits for extended shelf life. The study used medium-sized rambutan fruits, harvested at commercial maturity (red pericarp). After cleaning and sanitising (ozonation two ppm), fruits were dipped in aloe gel (10, 25, 50%) for five minutes and stored in CFB boxes at room temperature. Physiological loss in weight increased during the storage and 50% aloe gel lost the least weight (18.19%) and retained the total soluble solids (17.98 Brix), acidity (0.40%), moisture content (79.05%), total sugar (20.75%), reducing sugar (3.14%), ascorbic acid (22.69 mg 100g^-1), total phenols (3.48 mg 100g^-1), and antioxidant activity (68.85%). The aloe gel (50%) coated rambutan fruits packaged in ventilated polypropylene and stored under refrigerated conditions (12±10 C) had the lowest physiological loss in weight of 9.33%, the highest total soluble solids (16.96 Brix), acidity (0.30%), moisture content (80.08%), total sugar (17.67%), reducing sugar (2.84%), and ascorbic acid (19.42 mg 100 g-1) content, the lowest browning score, and the highest organoleptic qualities and shelf life.

Department of Agronomy, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: ved.prakash13@bhu.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.63

Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, G.B.P.U.A & T, Pantnagar – 263 145, U.S. Nagar. Corresponding e-mail: annusajwan30@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.47

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Abstract: The present investigation was undertaken at the Model Floriculture Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agricultural and Technology, Pantnagar. The experiment was conducted to test the different concentrations and time of application of biotic formulation, i.e., Bacillus subtilis var. amyloliquifaciens strain FZB24 (manufactured by Novozyme South Asian Pvt. Ltd. under the brand name Taegro) and abiotic formulation i.e., sodium bicarbonate and acetic acid on control of Botrytis blight of rose cv. Grand Gala under field condition and during vase life. Foliar spray of standard chemical Carbendazim 50% W.P. @ 500g/ha, 6 spray at 7 days interval was found best followed by Carbendazim 50% W.P. @ 500g/ha, 3 spray at 14 days intervals which was at par with Bacillus subtilis @ 1000 g per hectare, 6 spray at 7 days interval against incidence of Botrytis blight in field condition while, during vase life, application of treatment was insignificant. In contrast, acetic acid and sodium bicarbonate do not significantly affect disease control.

Department of Vegetable Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, P.O. Box 12613, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: ahmed.gwad.sayed@agr.cu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.64

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Abstract: The purpose of this research was to determine if salt-tolerant rootstock could be used to increase cucumber yield and quality in saline environments. Greenhouse experiments were conducted for 2020 and 2021, with five salt stress-tolerant rootstocks (Super Green (squash hybrid, Modesto seeds company, Modesto, California 95357, U.S.A.), Just (squash hybrid, American Takii seeds, California, U.S.A.), bottle gourd 1 (Legenaria siceraria, PI 491352), bottle gourd 2 (Legenaria siceraria, PI 491365), watermelon (Citrullus lanatus var. Colocynthoides), and Laurens (cucumber cultivar, Enza Zaden, Enkhuizen, Netherlands) and salt-sensitive genotypes of Luerans (scion). Specimens of these genotypes were subjected to distinct salinity levels of 0, 50, 100, and 150 mM (NaCl). The morphophysiological responses of these genotypes to salt stress were evaluated. Under normal and stressful conditions, the plant height, leaf area (LA), leaf water content (LWC), number of leaves, root dry matter, shoot dry matter, rates of leaf appearance and stem elongation, fruit yield, and quality increased significantly in grafted cucumber plants compared with non-grafted individuals (control). Similar findings were noted in the physiological properties of antioxidant enzymes, proline content, and leaf nutrient concentration (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, and Na). Grafting of Luerans on five rootstocks significantly elevated the antioxidant enzymes (catalase and peroxidase) activity level, increased proline accumulation, and reduced leaf sodium (Na) content.

Vegetable Science Division, Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), DRDO, Leh, Ladakh (UT) - 194101, India. Corresponding e-mail: ghai.anjali@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.65

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Abstract: Ladakh, a trans-Himalayan cold arid region characterized by sub-zero temperatures and lower atmospheric pressure, limits the cultivation period of crops to the summer months. Bottle gourd, a nutrient-rich Cucurbitaceae vegetable, is grown from April to September in Ladakh. However, the favorable environmental conditions for fungal plant pathogens challenge bottle gourd cultivation during this period. During a field survey of the Muth region located at an elevation of 4221 m above sea level, wilting of bottle gourd leaves was observed in August, with a disease incidence of 14% and a severity index of 5%. Isolation and characterization of the pathogen on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium identified it as Fusarium sp., with typical spores observed under the microscope. The pathogenicity test confirmed the pathogenic nature of the isolate. Amplification and sequencing of the ITS region showed high similarity with Fusarium oxysporum in the UNITE database, and the sequence has been submitted to NCBI GenBank under the accession number OP453355. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential threats of fungal pathogens to bottle gourd cultivation in Ladakh and highlight the importance of disease management strategies in high-altitude regions.

Central laboratory of Organic Agriculture, Agriculture Research Center, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: abosef5@yahoo.com .

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.66

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Abstract: We looked into bagging and spraying as potential methods for increasing the yield and quality of Manfaloty pomegranate trees. During the 2020 and 2021 seasons, 7-year-old trees were used in the investigation. They were grown in calcareous sandy soil at high temperatures. Six treatments were used to examine the effects on fruit yield and quality parameters at harvest time in the first week of September. These treatments included foliar spraying with kaolin and potassium silicate treatments, polypropylene bags and bagging with white and yellow paper. Results indicated that white paper bagging resulted in the lowest percentage of fruit cracking and sunburn compared to the control and other treatments. White paper bagging increased fruit yield, weight, length and diameter. Additionally, compared to the other treatments, the application of kaolin spray increased the biochemical contents of the fruit (TSS, total sugars, vitamin C, anthocyanin, and juice) while lowering acidity and tannins. We concluded that using kaolin spray and white paper bags could help increase the yield and quality of Manfaloty pomegranate grown under challenging conditions.

Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala, India-680656. Corresponding e-mail: geethumsasikumar@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.67

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Abstract: Presently, in India, avocado cultivation is limited and scattered in southern and north eastern region of India. Many avocado genotypes are available in Kerala, which vary widely in terms of biochemical and morphological attributes. In the present study, 27 accessions (Acc.) were collected from different parts of Kerala, including high-altitude areas and plains. Wide variability in biochemical and morphological traits was observed among accessions collected from different locations. Acc. 11 had the highest vitamin C and Acc. 15 had highest protein content. The highest fat content was recorded in Acc. 7, while the highest oleic acid was recorded in Acc. 10. Acc. 25 reported the highest flavonoid and calcium content. Genotypes collected from Wayanad recorded comparatively higher values for vitamin C, phenols, potassium and crude fibre content. Protein, total fat and calcium contents were comparatively higher in genotypes collected from Idukki. Accessions 7, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15 and 25 could be selected for future conservation, popularization and commercial cultivation based on their biochemical and morphological quality attributes.

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Department, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre (NRC), EL-Behouth St., Dokki, Giza-12622, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: rehamsabry2000@hotmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.68

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Abstract: Lemon balm (Melissa officinals) is one of the most valuable medicinal plants in herbal medicine. Bio-stimulants are likely to gain popularity as an alternative strategy for providing plants with nutrients, vitamins, and hormones that increase yield and quality. Field trials were conducted during two successive seasons, 2017/2018 and 2018/2019, to assess lemon balm's growth and essential oil response to natural plant extracts with various concentrations. Lemon balm plants were exposed to moringa leaf extract (1, 2, 3 %), pomegranate peel extract (0.5, 1, 1.5 %) and banana peel extract (1, 2, 3 %) as a foliar spray. Growth characters (plant height, fresh and dry weights /plant) and chemical contents (NPK and total carbohydrates) were recorded. Moringa extract at 3% surpassed, in most cases, other plant extracts in improving the vegetative growth traits of lemon balm. Banana peel extract was more effective in increasing oil percent than moringa or pomegranate extracts. Besides, all extracts caused increase in N,P,K and carbohydrates over control while they yielded volatile oil without significantly altering the quality.

¹School of Agriculture, Swami Vivekananda University, Barrackpore, 70121, West Bengal, India. ²Department of Fruit Science, B.C.K.V. Mohanpur, Nadia, 741252, West Bengal, India. Corresponding e-mail: tsarkarbckv@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.69

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Abstract: A total 28 traits enabled an assessment of the genetic variability of twenty-four guava genotypes. Many of these traits are significantly important and used for improvement programmes regarding fruit quality and yield. The TSS of fruit ranged from 8.57 ⁰B (China genotype) to12.19 ⁰B (Arka Kiran) and seed number/fruit 109.58 (Taiwan) to 303.67 (China genotype). Correlation studies revealed a strong positive correlation among quantitative traits related to fruit yield and quality while negative correlation between qualitative traits. Principal component analysis showed that the first three components with Eigen values could explain more than 76.99% of the total variation. PC1, PC2 and PC3 accounted for 41.15, 24.74 and 11.10%, respectively. Cluster analysis distinguished all the genotypes into three clusters/groups. The PCA and clustering analysis indicated a higher level of diversity in guava genotypes. Local cultivars such as Baruipur Local, Khaja, and Mohammad Khaja genotypes, as well as improved cultivars such as Arka Kiran, Philippines genotypes, were identified as having desirable fruit quality traits that could be used for commercialization and crop improvement.

¹Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. ²Frontier Agriculture, SOYL Precision Crop Production Division, Newbury, United Kingdom. Corresponding e-mail: mmunir@kfu.edu.sa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i03.72

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Abstract: Date palm is a cross-pollinated perennial tree since it is a dioecious plant. Although natural pollination is feasible, artificial pollination is advised for a significantly higher yield and quality. In this study, the spikelet placement method of pollination was adopted, and different number of spikelets (one, three, five, seven, and nine) were placed in the female inflorescence of three date palm cvs., Khalas, Sheshi, and Barhi. The experiment was based on a two-factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Although the highest spikelet load (nine) significantly affected all three cultivars' fruit set and yield-related characteristics, seven spikelets placed for pollination followed the higher attributes. The effect of spikelet loads alone did not significantly influence the fruit quality. All three date palm cultivars behaved independently and significantly differently for fruit set, yield, and physicochemical traits. The interaction of spikelet loads and cultivars showed that a higher spikelet load greatly influenced fruit yield and quality.

¹Institute of Agroecology and Plant Production. ²Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding and Seed Production. ³Department of Botany and Plant Ecology. Wroc?aw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Poland, Corresponding e-mail: piotr.kuc@upwr.edu.pl

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.25

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Abstract: The research aimed to demonstrate the effect of Myconate^® HB (formononetin) on the growth, weight, nutrients and active compounds in Valeriana officinalis and Salvia officinalis. The research was carried out in the experimental field on brown soil. A univariate experiment was established using the randomised block design in four replications. The study showed that the use of Myconate^® (Agrii Polska Sp. zoo.) on V. officinalis seedlings positively affected the weight of the aerial parts and roots, as well as on the content of dry matter and fiber. However, the content of total protein and nitrogen-free extracts was unfavourable. In the case of S. officinalis, the use of Myconate^® also had a positive impact on the weight of the aboveground parts and roots and on the content of total protein and crude ash in the herb, while it negatively influenced the contents of dry matter, fiber and nitrogen-free extracts. Myconate^®, however, did not affect the length of the phenological stages in the experimental plants. The percentage of essential oils increased during the vegetation period in both species in all the tested plots, while their statistically higher contents were observed from the full tillering stage in the plots sprayed with Myconate^®.

ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta, Bengaluru-560089. Corresponding e-mail: manjunath.bl@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.26

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Abstract: A field experiment to standardize the partial root-zone drying irrigation in papaya (Carica papaya L.) cultivar ‘Red Lady’ indicated that replenishing 70 % of the evaporative demand and changing the irrigation sides once in 12 days stored higher soil moisture (14.6 %) in the root zone. Irrigation meeting 60 % ER found to enhance the photosynthetic rate (13.9µ mol/m²/s) significantly, while shifting the irrigation at 16 days was found to reduce the rate (9.9 µ mol/m²/s). ABA production increased with an increase in the interval between the changing irrigation sides. Vertical growth of roots was significantly higher (67.3 cm) when irrigation was scheduled meeting 60 % pan evaporation with irrigation side changing once in 16 days. Replenishing 60 % of evaporation recorded significantly higher number of fruits (46.1/plant) and further changing the irrigation sides once in 12 days found to yield considerably more papaya fruits (53 /plant) and total yield (32.4 kg/plant) accounting to 100 t/ha. This treatment also recorded substantially higher water use efficiency (100.4 kg/ha.mm), saving 14.3 % water. Further, scheduling irrigation at 60 % ER and changing the irrigation sides at 12 day intervals was found to be more economical with higher gross returns (Rs. 10,00,000), net returns (Rs. 6,09,340) and benefit-cost ratio (2.60).

¹ICAR Research Complex for North Eastern Hill Region, Imphal 795004, Manipur, India. ²Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan 731236, West Bengal, India. ³Central Horticultural Experiment Station, ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bhubaneswar 751019, Odisha, India. Corresponding e-mail: manas.sahoo@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.27

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Abstract: An efficient shoot and root organogenesis protocol has been developed from synseeds derived from various explants of Citrus jambhiri Lush. Optimum synseeds were developed using sodium alginate (0.5-0.75%) in 1.0% CaCl₂ solution. Shoot organogenesis was examined under various basal vitamin mediums (MS Nitsch and MSB5) supplemented with various concentrations of adenine sulfate (ADS) and 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) from different explants such as cotyledonary junction, shoot tip, and nodal explants. The synseed regeneration response ranged between 60-100% among the vitamins, cytokinins and explants used. The number of shoots per synseeds was higher (13.4) in MSB5-BAP (1.5 mg L^-1), followed by 12.8 in MSN-ADS (2.0 mg L^-1), 11.2 in MSN-ADS (1.0 mg L^-1), and 10.8 in MSB5-ADS (1.0 mg L^-1) from the synseeds developed using 0.75% sodium alginate. The mean number of roots per explant was higher (4.2) in ½MSN+IAA (1.0 mg L^-1). Similarly, the mean root length was higher (5.2 cm) in ½MSN+IAA (0.5 mg L^-1) followed by 4.2 cm in ½MSN+IAA (1.0 mg L^-1). Regenerants derived from synseeds have shown no somaclonal variations, confirming that the plantlets are true-to-type to their parental progenies. The encapsulated plantlets showed >90% survivability while transferred at Kachai village, Manipur, India. The results of the present study encourage the use of various vitamin mediums and explants for large-scale propagation of C. jambhiri through synseeds.

¹Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation, Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Guntur, AP, India. ²S.R. University, Warangal, Telangana, India. Corresponding e-mail: rameshdamarla2009@gmail.com.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.29

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Abstract: The objective of the present investigation was to model the rate of cooling of apples in a fruit storage unit using forced air pre-cooling. Apples of Royal, Red, Rich-a-red and Golden Delicious varieties were procured from Shimla and Royal Delicious from the Kinnaur region of Himachal Pradesh, India. Apples were transported in refrigerated and non-refrigerated vehicles. After grading and sorting on a fully automatic machine, the apples were subjected to a cooling process. Apples were placed in perforated plastic crates and stacked in a controlled atmosphere chamber of 720 m³ capacity. Temperature profiles of apples were recorded with a programmable logic controller connected to sensors. The effect of variety, initial apple temperature, and fruit quantity per chamber on the cooling rate were investigated. Initial fruit temperature significantly affected the cooling time. The apple variety did not significantly affect the cooling time, except that slow cooling was observed for golden delicious in the last cooling stage. Varied masses of apples resulted in a proportionate increase in cooling time. Cooling times were 132, 113, 78, and 65 hours for a mass of 165, 150, 140, and 130 Metric Tons (MT), respectively. Correlation coefficients ranged from 0.970 to 0.979 for different varieties. The rate of cooling with apple mass was modeled with linear, exponential, and polynomial and found to best fit with the exponential model with R² values of 0.99, 0.96, 0.95, 0.966 for 165, 150, 140, and 130 MT, respectively. The time taken to cool 150 MT of apples was 97, 114, and 147 hours from an initial temperature of 35.2, 28.4, and 15.6^oC, respectively. The drop rate was exponential, with R² values in the range of 0.936 to 0.973.

¹Department of Agricultural Extension and Education, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran. ²Faculty of Economics and Agricultural Development, University of Tehran, Iran. Corresponding e-mail: hseinim@ut.ac.ir

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.30

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Abstract: The present study aimed at evaluating prominent factors that affect the sustainability of horticultural private extension services (SHPES) and the continuous flow of their activities from the perspective of public sector experts. The study sample consisted of 148 public sector experts who were selected through stratified random sampling. A questionnaire was utilized for data collection. Validity was confirmed by face validity, convergent validity, and content validity. The results showed that infrastructure, educational extension, and economic factors had the most positive and significant effects on the SHPES and the continuity of their activities. The result of the calculated goodness-of-fit index (0.718) revealed that the model provided an excellent fit for the data. Also, the structures and factors explained 78% of the variance of the SHPES. The present study showed how management, economic, socio-cultural, policy, infrastructure, and educational factors influence SHPES.

Department of Agricultural Economics, CARDS, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641003, Tamil Nadu, India. Corresponding e-mail: narms012@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.31

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Abstract: The present study aims at analyzing the growth performance of Horticulture in India. The paper analyzes the growth rates and decomposition analysis of horticultural crop groups’ area, production and productivity from 1991-92 to 2020-21. The study period was divided into pre-NHM (1991-92 to 2004-05) and post-NHM (2005-06 to 2020-21). The compound growth rate results show that the growth rate in area, production and productivity of horticultural crop groups are positive and statistically significant during the post-NHM period than the pre-NHM period. From decomposition analysis, area effect and yield effect are positive during the post-NHM period for all the crop groups; the interaction effect also shows positive except for fruits and flower crops. The overall performance in area, production, and productivity is quite satisfactory during the post-NHM period; greater attention needs to be given to the states where productivity has declined with marginal increments under NHM.

¹Amity Institute of Horticulture Study and Research, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India. ²Horticulture Department, Agriculture Faculty, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan. ³Amity Food and Agriculture Foundation, Amity University Uttar Pradesh, Noida, India. ⁴Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry, Indian Agriculture Research Institute, New Delhi, India. Corresponding e-mail: hakimi.ss.ku.af@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.32

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Abstract: This study was conducted under ambient condition at the research farm of the Agriculture Faculty in Kabul University, Afghanistan. The objectives were to identify suitable harvesting maturity stages for tomato crop that will result in adequate shelf life of tomato fruits for local and distant markets. The results indicated that fruits of the turning color stage treated with 6 % CaCl₂ solution had the best quality and highest shelf life (17.5 days) compared to other treatments. Whereas, based on the significant main effect the 15.38 and 14.17 days’ highest shelf life recorded for tomatoes of H₁ (turning color stage) and D₁ (dipped in 6 % CaCl₂ solution) respectively. The TSS (^oBrix) and PLW (%) increased till the end of storage life but the tomato fruits’ firmness (g cm^-2) decreased. The lowest values noted as 4.79 and 4.74 (^oBrix) TSS and 3.31 and 2.93 (%) PLW but the highest tomatoes firmness were 932.50 and 854.17 (g cm^-2) recorded all for fruits of H₁ (turning color stage) and D₁ (dipped in 6 % CaCl₂ solution), respectively. In conclusion, the turning color, pink color and light red color stage’s fruits of the Pearson variety are recommended harvesting of fruits of Pearson variety for the distant market, local market, and immediate use, respectively and the 6 % CaCl₂ solution could increase shelf life and maintain tomato quality.

Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University), Nirjuli -791109, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: asamad969@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.33

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Abstract: Piper pedicellatum C. DC. is a wild leafy vegetable belonging to the family Piperaceae and is categorized as threatened species. It is one of the widely used popular leafy vegetable in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Sikkim, locally known as Rahre, Raro or Rori. The species is rich in vitamin A, Vitamin C, minerals, dietary fibre, antioxidants, protein, and energy and is also used as an ethnomedicinal plant. An experiment was conducted to study the effect of growth regulators IBA and IAA and length of stem cuttings on propagation potential of P. pedicellatum C. DC in the Forestry Nursery of North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology during the years 2018 and 2019. The experiment revealed that the performance of stem cuttings viz., time taken for first sprouting, maximum sprout per cutting, length of sprouted shoot, number of leaves per cutting, and maximum fresh weight of shoot are found better in the treatment of T₄ (L₁ + IBA 1500 ppm), T₇ (L₁ + IAA 1500 ppm), T₁₁ (L₂ + IBA 1500 ppm) and T₁₄ (L₂ + IAA 1500 ppm), respectively. Similarly, the maximum number of roots per cutting, root length, fresh and dry weight of roots were also recorded in the treatment of T₄ (L₂ + IAA 1500 ppm) at par with T₁₁ (L₁ + IBA 1500 ppm) during both the year. The mean maximum survival rate of cuttings with a higher rooting percentage was observed in T₁₁, which is at par with T₇, T₁₄, and T₄. Although L₂ cuttings performed better than L₁ cuttings, the difference was not so prominent. Stem cuttings, irrespective of their length, treated with IBA 1500 ppm and IAA 1500 ppm showed significantly superior performance over the cuttings treated with lower concentrations of IBA and IAA. The outcome of the present study indicated that the P. pedicellatum is a promising wild leafy vegetable plant that can be exploited for conservation, domestication, and cultivation through the vegetative propagation technique, with standardization of its production technology for the adoption of commercial cultivation of the threatened species.

ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute, Karnal – 132001 (Haryana). Corresponding e-mail: R.Raju@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.35

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Abstract: Production of vegetables under protected cultivation is necessary to meet the continuous demand across the seasons. Due to the capital and labour-intensive nature of the polyhouse technology, majority of Indian farmers with small and marginal category (>85%) cannot afford it. On the other hand, 6.73 million hectare land area in India is affected by salinity, which hampers crop production hence the area under vegetable cultivation is shrinking as the majority of vegetables are sensitive to salinity stress. This study was undertaken to assess the effect of saline water drip irrigation on production of capsicum, green chilli and tomato crops in naturally ventilated polyhouse. The economic analysis revealed that the estimated cost of polyhouse construction (300 m²) with drip irrigation system was ?4,71,563 and the overall cost (cost C₃) of vegetable production under polyhouse was estimated to be ?2,15,623. Among capsicum, green chilli and tomato crops grown in the polyhouse, overall net returns over cost C₃ was highest from tomato followed by capsicum and green chilli. The economic indicators were very encouraging with positive net present value, higher benefit-cost ratio, higher internal rate of returns, and shorter payback period. The investigation also suggests the viability of saline water drip irrigation for commercial cultivation of vegetables in naturally ventilated polyhouse, which is not possible under the natural environment with saline water drip irrigation.

¹Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. ²Frontier Agriculture, SOYL Precision Crop Production Division, Newbury, United Kingdom. Corresponding e-mail: mmunir@kfu.edu.sa

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.36

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Abstract: Evaluating different germplasm resources is the basis of selecting excellent broccoli cultivars in a specific climatic condition for the fresh market and the processing industry. Agronomic traits of thirteen broccoli cultivars were studied to determine the suitable cultivars for temperate regions. Cultivars, viz. Bonanza, Sun King, Volta, De Cicco, Coronado Crown, Packman, Belstar, Kabuki, Marathon, Green Magic, Parthenon, Blue Wind and Green Sprouting were included in the study. Significant differences (P?0.05) were found in morphological, phenological, curd-related, and yield-related variables among 13 broccoli cultivars. Morphological parameters such as plant height, plant spread, and stem diameter were maximum in cultivar Marathon, whereas phenological traits such as minimum days to curd formation and total days to harvest were counted in broccoli cultivars De Cicco, Packman, and Blue Wind. Maximum curd diameter was recorded in cultivars Bonanza, De Cicco, Coronado Crown, Packman, Kabuki, Marathon, and Parthenon, whereas the highest per hectare curd yield was obtained from cultivars De Cicco, Packman, Marathon, and Parthenon. The present finding also demonstrated a significant association between different broccoli cultivars with plant height, curd weight, and yield traits. Similarly, a significant positive correlation was observed among stem diameter, curd diameter, curd weight, and curd yield parameters, and between leaf number per plant, days to curd initiation, days to curd formation, and total days to harvest parameters.

¹Pomology, Faculty of Agriculture Cairo University. Cairo University Street, Giza, Egypt. ²Horticultural Research Institute Agricultural Research Center. Horticultural Research Institute Agricultural Research Center, 9 Cairo University Street, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: esraakassem46@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.37

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Abstract: This study was conducted on a farm of Horticultural Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt, during two successive seasons (2019 & 2020) on seedling African-rose plum grafted on two rootstocks (Nemaguard and Marianna 26-24, respectively) in sandy soil. African rose seedlings were treated with vermicompost liquid fertilization as follows: soil treatment by vermicompost diluted times, foliar treatment by vermicompost diluted 10 times, double treatment of the soil as mentioned above, and foliar applications and control. The main purpose of this project was to study the effect of vermicompost liquid fertilization on the vegetative growth behavior of African rose plum seedlings grafted on two different rootstocks and reducing the use of chemical fertilizers in the long run and establishing farms that depend on organic fertilization to preserve the environment and maintain consumer health. The results showed that all vermicompost treatments increased the vegetative growth parameters and leaf mineral content of African rose seedlings compared to the control. In addition to, the double treatment of soil and foliar applications gave the highest growth parameters and leaf mineral content. The endogenous hormone is significantly affected by all treatments under study. These results explain that vermicompost fluid improves the morphological and physiological characteristics of the treated seedlings and can be applied to produce organic plums. It gradually dispense with chemical fertilization, and preserve the environment.

Viticulture Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: salwa.bedrech70@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.38

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Abstract: To determine the vines' optimum nitrogen and potassium fertilization rates of Early Sweet grape cultivar under open field and plastic cover conditions, the study was undertaken in the two periods of 2019 and 2020 with a preliminary season in 2018. Six treatments were applied in this experiment, three in an open field and three under a transparent plastic cover with different rates of (60, 45 and 30 units fed^-1) for nitrogen and (100, 75 and 50 units fed^-1) for potassium. Results showed that the vines receiving rates of N 45 units + K 75 units fed^-1 under plastic cover recorded a higher percentage of bud break followed by N 60 units + K 100 units fed^-1 treatment under plastic cover. In addition to an earlier sprout than those in the open field, they gave the highest values in term of yield and all physical and chemical parameters for reproductive growth, except for the vegetative growth where the best treatment was obtained from N 60 units + K 100 units fed^-1 under plastic cover followed by N 60 units + K 100 units fed^-1 in the open field. This result suggests that the plastic cover has a beneficial effect on decreasing the rates of fertilization due to the change in vine canopy microclimate through enhancing vegetative and reproductive growth and creating a balance between them.

Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Kashmir, Srinagar- 190006, India. Corresponding e-mail: tahir.inayatullah@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.39

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Abstract: The present investigation focused on the study of the exogenous inclusion of anti-senescence biogenic polyamines (putrescine, spermidine and spermine) and ethylene antagonist silver thiosulphate on flower longevity and postharvest performance in excised flowers of Digitalis purpurea L. At one day before anthesis stage, isolated buds of Digitalis purpurea were transported to the laboratory in distilled water. The samples were divided into five sets with one set of flower buds (i.e., control) held in distilled water. The remaining four sets were respectively supplied with 0.5, 1 and 1.5 mM of putrescine (PUT), 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mM of spermidine (SPD), 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 mM of spermine (SPM), 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mM of silver thiosulphate (STS). The inclusion of polyamines and STS in holding solutions enhanced the flower longevity of D. purpurea significantly compared to the control. The results indicated that the flower longevity of 14 days was recorded in 0.4 mM of spermine, followed by 13 days in 1 mM PUT, 12.5 days in 0.2 mM SPD and 12 days in 0.2 mM STS. This enhanced flower longevity corroborated with the higher values of soluble proteins, total sugars, floral diameter and membrane stability index. The improved flower longevity was also found to be positively associated with increased activities of various antioxidant enzymes viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and reduced activity of lipoxygenase (LOX). The flowers supplemented with different treatments retained a lower phenolic content than the control. This research concluded that polyamines and STS have a profound impact on the flower longevity of Digitalis flowers. SPM was found to be a more potential polyamine in augmenting the postharvest performance in isolated flowers of D. purpurea.

Department of Zoology¹, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Amritsar², Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004. Corresponding e-mail: rajwinder-singh@pau.edu

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.40

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Abstract: Litchi (Litchi chinensis) is an important subtropical evergreen fruit crop of Punjab and is considerably damaged by the fruit bat (Pteropus giganteus). Since no study has been done in Punjab to assess fruit damage and control of fruit bats in litchi crop, present study was conducted in litchi orchards at two different locations (six sites) Gurdaspur [Regional Research Station (PAU), villages Ranjit Bagh and Tibar] and Pathankot (villages Sujanpur, Balusa and Malikpur) each having three replications, during 2018 and 2019. Our results reported that yield loss (%) to litchi fruits by P. giganteus was in the range from 6.85 to 8.93% and damage 5.59 kg/tree having average yield of 74.09 kg/tree. The average economic litchi fruit loss was calculated to be Rs. 32,232.0/acre. This damage to litchi fruit crop was minimized by using lighting, a non-lethal and non-polluting method (LED bulbs), with one-time installation cost. It is concluded that after installation of 16 LED bulbs/acre of 30 watts at a distance of 50 feet from each other in an upward position at the height of 8 feet above tree canopy in an orchard having 72 trees planted at a distance of 25×25 feet, we can reduce fruit bat damage to a lower level and can give a net economic return of Rs. 13448.0/acre to litchi fruit growers which will increase their farm income and help in conservation of fruit bats.

¹Rajiv Gandhi Chair in Contemporary Studies on Livelihood and Food Security, ²KVK, Bandipora, ³School of Agricultural Economics and Horti-Business Management, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, ⁴Department of Environmental Studies, The Glocal University, U.P., ⁵Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Rangreth, Srinagar, ⁶Centre of Central Asian Studies, University of Kashmir, Srinagar & ⁷Demartment of Tourism Management, University of Kashmir, Srinagar. India Corresponding e-mail: bhatarshad09@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.41

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Abstract: Improved high-yielding apple varieties are important for reducing food insecurity in developing countries and improving horticultural production and productivity. The study used cross-sectional data from a survey conducted during 2021 fruit season, a probit model analysis was used to determine the probability of adopting new, improved apple varieties (NIAVs) by growers from two main apple-producing districts of Kashmir valley i.e., Shopian and Pulwama. The results revealed that the education of the respondent, extension services availed, and apple plant accessibility play significant roles in decisions regarding the adoption of new apple varieties. Moreover, farming variables like holding size is the key factor influencing the probability of adopting NIAVs in the study area. The extensive role performed by extension services, enormous emphasis on dissemination, demonstration, and growers' participatory studies and training packages to popularize and undertake new apple varieties and enhance their adoption rate is required on a large scale in the study area. The study suggests that policy intervention ought to be made to improve the educational status of apple-growing households and develop programs on a varietal package of apples that offer apple growers a variety of choices in selecting the appropriate varieties for adoption. Such programs ultimately help growers develop more profit-oriented behaviour, which will not only enhance adoption rate, profitability, and production but will also improve food & nutritional security in the long run in the region in the particular and whole valley in general.

¹Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir Shalimar, Jammu and Kashmir, India-190025. ²Baba Farid College, Bathinda Punjab. ³Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, Awka P.M.B 5025, Anambra State, Nigeria. Corresponding e-mail: s.zahoor37@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.42

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Abstract: Apple is one of the important fruits grown in different regions, including India. In India, it is mainly cultivated in temperate regions of Kashmir valley due to its well suited climatic conditions. In Kashmir, most people are directly or indirectly dependent on apple cultivation for their livelihood. Apple is considered to be Kashmir’s eye as it produces 80% share of total fruit produced in the country and is the mainstay of the economy with revenue of around Rs 1500 crores. More than seven lakh families, i.e., above 50% of the population in the valley, are associated with this industry and almost 3.5 lakh hectares of land is under apple cultivation. The area under apple fruit has increased, but the production and productivity has not improved to a satisfactory level. Adopting improved technologies plays an important role in achieving the goal of higher production and productivity in Kashmir valley. A wide gap exists between the available technologies and its actual adoption by the apple growers was reflected through poor yield at the grower’s field. This disparity was entirely due to a lack of knowledge and awareness about various innovative techniques and technologies developed at different research stations. The study was carried out in various regions of Kashmir valley that were purposefully chosen to have the most area under apple cultivation. The study used a multistage sampling procedure. The study found that the mean knowledge index of apple growers in district Shopian was 51.75 percent, followed by the apple growers in district Baramulla (46.76%) and the least mean knowledge index (41.36%) was found among the apple growers of district Budgam. However, the overall mean knowledge index from all three districts was 46.62 percent. The study also found that apple growers’ knowledge index is determined by age, experience, education, media exposure, innovative proneness, scientific orientation, and risk orientation. Furthermore, apple growers need to follow innovative techniques and technologies to increase the production and productivity of apple fruit, maximize returns, and ensure food security.

¹Department of Vegetable Science, ²Department of Plant Pathology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India.Corresponding e-mail: sk-randhawa@pau.edu

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.43

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Abstract: Root-knot nematodes of genus Meloidogyne are the most devastating plant parasitic nematodes of vegetable crops responsible for severe global economic losses. The objective of the present work was to study the diversity of Meloidogne species in cauliflower growing areas of Punjab and to identify the source of resistance against M. incognita. The root and soil samples were collected from the cauliflower growing areas and associated nematode specie(s) was identified based on perineal pattern morphology and morphometry of adult females. M. incognita sp. was found most prevalent in all the cauliflower growing areas surveyed. A total of thirty genotypes of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) was screened against root-knot nematode, M. incognita, in pots. Four genotypes viz., LSMVAR-6, PI1654, LSMVAR-2 and LS-4 were resistant to M. incognita with root galling index (RGI) less than 2.0 and reproduction factor (Rf) less than 1.0. Among others, fourteen genotypes showed hypersusceptible (RGI 2.0- 2.6; Rf 0.57-1.0) and eleven genotypes showed a susceptible reaction. The resistant genotypes identified in the present study may be utilized to incorporate resistance against M. incognita in commercial cauliflower cultivars.

¹Department of Biotechnology, Telangana University, Dichpally, Nizamabad, Telangana, 503322, India. ²Department of Biotechnology, Telangana University, Dichpally, Nizamabad, Telangana, 503322, India. ³Department of Biotechnology, Telangana University, Dichpally, Nizamabad, Telangana, 503322, India. Corresponding e-mail: pmamidala@gmail.com; pmamidala@telanganauniversity.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.44

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Abstract: Salinity adversely affects various plants’ metabolic processes, negatively influencing their productivity and crop yield. Gerbera jamesonii cv. Bolus is a commercially important ornamental plant cultivated globally throughout the year for its cut flower production in polyhouses. During polyhouse cultivation, repeated fertigation may cause salinity in Gerbera, affecting flower quality and yield, and functional alterations in the basal level of cellular antioxidative defence systems. Though several factors induce salinity in general, we focussed on NaCl as it is one of the major components of fertigation. In salt-stressed plants, monitoring altered levels of antioxidative defense systems may help better understand their physiological changes. However, little to no studies were attempted on salinity-induced oxidative damage in Gerbera till date. In the current study, we verified the salt sensitivity level of Gerbera with varying concentrations of NaCl (0-200 mM) using in vitro leaf disc approach. We measured various antioxidative enzymatic/non enzymatic defense systems besides MDA and chlorophyll content. Treatment with higher salt concentrations (above100 mM NaCl) exhibited severe bleaching in leaf discs, followed by elevated levels of H₂O₂, lipid peroxidation and proline. Besides, our study also revealed a decrease in the total chlorophyll content; activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and ascorbate peroxidase. The observed results showed that Gerbera might not tolerate higher levels of NaCl as it could be detrimental to its cellular activities. Future studies on decoding molecular networks associated with salinity stress and antioxidative defense systems may help in developing salt-tolerant varieties in Gerbera and several other ornamental plants of Asteraceae.

Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Department of PG Botany, Maharani’s Science College for Women, Mysore-570 005, Karnataka, India. Corresponding e-mail: drashoknpyati@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.45

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Abstract: Dendrobiums are highly valued in the floriculture industry and have important medicinal properties used in preparing herbal medicines in different parts of the world. Numerous anthropogenic factors are leading to the rapid loss of natural stands of germplasm. Plant tissue culture, specifically in vitro propagation, may be the only viable solution for preserving and reintroducing Rare Endangered Threatened (RET) back into the wild. An efficient protocol for in vitro seed germination and propagation through various explants of Dendrobiums was established. The protocols developed will help alleviate the pressure on the natural population under stress but also help meet its demands in pharmaceutical and ornamental industries and form the basis for conservation. A perusal of available literature reveals that micropropagation has been achieved using immature or mature seeds/embryos, protocorms, shoot tips, TLCs, leaf explants, pseudobulbs and nodal segments in Dendrobiums. This review provides a short synopsis of the advances made thus far in the in vitro propagation of ornamental and medicinal Dendrobiums.

¹ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow-226101, India. ²Advanced Computing & Research Laboratory, Department of Computer Application, Integral University, Lucknow-226026, India. Corresponding e-mail: Harish.verma@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i02.46

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Abstract: Change detection is a process of identifying and quantifying the differences between images of the same scene at different times and in mango fruit crop is still a very challenging task. The major challenge of change detection in mango is discriminating between perennial fruit crops because many of these crops have similar reflectance profiles. Accurate change detection in the mango area will help the government prepare for area expansion and conservation planning. The main aim of this study was to determine the efficient change detection method for mango fruit crop among the most commonly used change detection methods. In this work, a comparative study was conducted by using Landsat 8 OLI images of two different dates i.e. 14 February, 2015 and 25 February, 2019 of the Malihabad mango region of Lucknow district. In this paper, four change detection methods namely, Vegetation Index Differencing (VID), Log Ratio (LR), Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and Image Rationg (IR) were evaluated to detect the changes in mango crop area. To extract the mango regions, Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) images of year 2015 and 2019 were calculated and further used to retrieve the VID, LR, PCA, and IR raster images. After that, these four raster images were thresholded to annotate the ‘Positive change’, ‘Negative change’ and ‘No change’ areas; thereafter, to obtain the final change map, masking was applied to mask out the non-mango area. Change detection accuracy was calculated using ground truth data to assess performance. After conducting the comparative analysis of all four change detection methods, it was found that the highest change detection accuracy is achieved with the VID and PCA followed by LR and IR, respectively. PCA and VID methods provided higher accuracies, followed by LR to detect changes in mango crop area. It is due to these methods' capability to enhance the information on the change.

Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi- 221005 (U.P), India. Corresponding e-mail: kumarharsh12312@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.20

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Abstract: An investigation was carried out at Vegetables Research Farm of the Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, during Zaid season (Feb-May) of 2019 to evaluate 26 genotypes of muskmelon (Cucumis melo L.) for genetic diversity based on 32 morphological and 4 biochemical traits. Since any breeding program’s success depends broadly on the available genetic diversity and the rational selection of parents, the wider genetic diversity of the genotypes offers plentiful room for further improvement in available cultivars. Therefore, Mahalanobis’s D² statistic was adopted for quantitative assessment of genetic divergence and based on the relative magnitude of D² values, twelve clusters were formed. Of the twelve clusters, cluster I was largest with the nine genotypes, followed by cluster ? with seven genotypes. Among the traits studied, maximum genetic divergence was contributed by the character seed weight index (15.38%). The maximum inter-cluster distance was recorded between cluster VII and XI (106.09) while, the intra-cluster distance was highest in cluster III (46.03) which marked the presence of wide genetic diversity among the genotypes GP-150, Pusa Madhuras, MHY-3, GP-20, MM-1, Durgapur Selection, and GP-73. The inter-cluster distance was more than the intra-cluster distance indicating the presence of wide genetic diversity, among the genotypes under study.

¹ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow-226101, India. ²Department of Biosciences, Integral University, Lucknow-226026, India. ³Department of Bioengineering, Integral University, Lucknow 226026, India. Corresponding e-mail: anju.bajpai@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.21

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Abstract: Increasing salinity is a cause of concern for meeting UN sustainable development goals and needs urgent mitigation strategies. The widespread use of salinity tolerant rootstocks in salt-sensitive fruits provides long-term solutions to the harsh effects of soil salinization. Polyembryonic mango cultivar 13-1, a salinity-tolerant variety from Israel, was used to unravel initial salt adaptive mechanism by imposing a salinity screen at 200mM NaCl. Differentially accumulated proteins were separated through 2-D electrophoresis (pH gradient 4.0-7.0), and identified through properties of pI and molecular weight by annotation against Citrus isoelectric focusing database. Protein spots (309) were detected on Coomassie-stained gels and about 22 spots were found differentially expressed in control and stress. Overproduction of stress-related proteins like polygalacturonase (97 kDa/4.9PI) and alcohol dehydrogenase (38kDa/5.6PI) is linked to enhanced cell wall integrity, transpiration rate regulation and ionic maintenance in adaptability mechanism. The upregulated phenylpropanoid pathway proteins p-coumaroyl ester, Flavanone3-hydroxylase-2 and UDP-glycosyl transferase are also involved in stress alleviation through flavonoid accumulation. Glutathione S-transferase was also identified with 2.21-fold accumulation in plants exposed to salinity stress, thereby elucidating its role in oxidative stress mitigation. Cell wall and cytoskeleton metabolism-related proteins were also found to be associated with salinity adaptation in mango cv 13-1. Differential accumulation of proteins implicated in signal transduction pathway, transcription regulation and hormone signaling were also identified. Thus, role of differentially expressed proteins under initial salinity stress conditions provide new insights molecular adjustment mechanisms orchestrated by mango rootstock variety by hormone signaling, osmotic arrangements, cytoskeleton modifications, phenol accumulation and transcription regulation.

Division of Fruit Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu, Chatha, Jammu- 180009, India. Corresponding e-mail: simrandeep.kour88@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.22

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Abstract: A two-year study was undertaken in the Division of Fruit Science, SKUAST-J, to examine the effect of differential irrigation regimes as pre-harvest treatments (regulated deficit irrigation and partial root-zone drying) on the shelf life of mango grown in open field conditions. Maximum physiological weight loss (21.06% and 21.10%) and decay loss (51.00% and 52.20%) was recorded under treatment T₁₀ (no irrigation) whereas, minimum was recorded in treatment T₉. The fruit moisture was recorded maximum in T₇ (77.46 % and 77.72 %) whereas T₁₀ recorded minimum (70.55% and 70.83%) fruit moisture during 2017 and 2018, respectively. Both years recorded maximum fruit firmness in T9 (21.62 and 22.47 lb/in2) and minimum in T10 (14.61 and 15.46 lb/in2). On a mean value basis maximum fruit moisture content and fruit firmness was recorded on 0 day of storage which decreased significantly and continuously upto 10^th the day of storage. In contrast, minimum PLW content was recorded on 2^nd day of storage which increased significantly and constantly up to 10^th the day of storage and minimum decay loss content was recorded on 6^th day of storage which increased significantly and continuously upto 10^th the day of storage during 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Department of Horticulture, Sikkim University, 6^th Mile, Samdur, Tadong-737102, Gangtok, Sikkim, India. Corresponding e-mail: supadhyay@cus.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.23

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Abstract: An experiment was conducted to study the essential constituents in four major cultivars of large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.). Each sample was analysed for volatile oil content using hydro-distillation in a Clevenger-type apparatus. The essential oil content varied from 2.70 to 1.90% and highest amount of essential oil content 2.70% was obtained from variety Golsey. The composition of the essential oil was determined by GC-MS which led to the identification of 47 compounds representing 93%-99.7% of the total oil. The major components identified in the oil were 1,8-Cineole, ?-pinene, ?-Pinene, ?-Terpineol, ?-thujene, ?-terpineol, limonene, ?-terpineol, ?- terpinene and myrcene. Out of 47 metabolites analysed it was found 1,8-Cineole was the major component in the large cardamom oil. Golsey cultivar contained the highest numbers of major metabolites among the cultivars tested. Further, Ramsey cultivar was found with high percentage of 1,8-cineole.

¹Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, India. ²Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India. Corresponding e-mail: ck@via.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.24

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Abstract: A lab experiment was conducted in Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture (Affiliated to Tamil Nadu Agricultural University), Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, India during 2018-2019 in a completely randomized design to study the effect of vetiver root (Chrysopogon zizanioides) and other biochars on water quality and water nutrient status in Bore well water and Well water. The experiment consisted of five main factors and two sub-factors. The samples like vetiver root, vetiver root biochar, sugarcane bagasse, palmyrah fruit and banana peel were shade dried and dried in a hot air oven at different temperatures for uniform drying. The pyrolysis process i.e. dried samples into biochar with the recommended temperatures, was carried out in Dr. Mahalingam College of Engineering and Technology, Pollachi. Water from Bore well and well was filtered using vetiver root and different biochars. Water quality parameters such as pH, EC, TDS, potassium, alkalinity were analyzed. The analysis concludes that vetiver root biochar-treated water showed best results in pH, Electrical conductivity, TDS, Potassium and Sodium concentrations.

¹High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre (HAPPRC), H.N.B. Garhwal University, Post Box: 14, Srinagar Garhwal -246174, Uttarakhand, India. ²Department of Biotechnology (CCS), MIET, Meerut-250005 (U.P.), India.Corresponding e-mail:ankitsinghrawat333@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.03

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Abstract: Alpine plant species are perennial but have a shorter growing period according to prevailing habitat conditions that remain snow-covered during winter. In these areas, many of the species are important sources of valuable drugs. Phenological observations on Meconopsis aculeata were recorded at a weekly interval in Tungnath region of western Himalaya. Phenological studies in alpine plants are minimal, especially in Indian Himalayas thus, the present study was carried out to describe detailed phenological stages of M. aculeata in Tungnath region of the Indian Himalaya. The BBCH (Biologische Bundesantalt, Bundessortenamt, and Chemische Industrie) scale was used to characterize seven primary growth stages from seed germination to senescence, as well as secondary growth stages. These stages include stage 0 (germination phase), stage 1 (leaf development), stage 5 (Inflorescence emergence), stage 6 (flowering), stage 7 (fruit development), stage 8 (Fruit ripening) and stage 9 (Senescence). Due to the high market demand of medicinal plants in local and international markets, work on the various aspects of domestication and crop improvement is a dire need, therefore the detailed phenological growth stages of M. aculeata could be helpful and complimentary for local growers, breeders and researchers.

¹Department of Horticulture, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. ²Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak 38156-8-8349-Iran. ³Department of Plant Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran. ⁴Gene Bank Department, Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Tehran, Iran. Corresponding e-mail:swatikapoor@pau.edu

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.04

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Abstract: Iran has different environmental conditions due to its specific geographical location. Therefore, exploring essential oil and flavonoid components among medicinal plants in different areas may result in discoveries about valuable bioactive compounds. The present investigation aimed to study flavonoids profile and essential oils composition of four Lamiaceae species i.e., Stachys lavandulifolia, Teucrium polium, Thymus daenensis and Ziziphora clinopodioides from Oshtorankoh located on Zagros Mountains, Iran. A chemical study using two dimentional paper chromatography (2-DPC) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) showed that the four studied species contained flavone C and C-/O glucosides and flavonoid sulphates. The present study revealed that T. polium had high levels of many flavonoids such as apigenin, genistein, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, quercetin, rutin, and vitexin compared to the other studied plants. The results of GC/MS analysis showed that S. lavandulifolia was rich in ?-pinene (21.16 %) and 1,8-cineol (16.95 %), T. polium in ?-pinene (12.21 %) and sabinene (9.55 %), T. daenensis in ?-Terpinene (36.98 %) and p-Cymene (26.87 %), and Z. clinopodioides in piperitone (16.84 %) and 1,8-cineol (16.11 %) components.

Pomology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt, Corresponding e-mail: puii.kh@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.05

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Abstract: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of two irrigation levels [100 percent of field capacity (FC) (control)] and 30 percent FC (deficit irrigation) on vegetative growth, biochemical status, and water use efficiency of five pomegranate cultivars (Wonderful, Manfalouty, Acco, Assuity and 116) over two seasons in 2019 and 2020. The results showed that deficit irrigation reduced the dry weight of the shoots and roots, as well as the chlorophyll content of the leaves, in all the pomegranate cultivars. Meanwhile, under stress, proline content, total soluble sugars, total phenols, and peroxidase activity all increased significantly. The Manfalouty cultivar had the highest shoot and root dry weights, as well as the highest water use efficiency, proline content, and total phenols. Furthermore, when compared to other cultivars, the Wonderful cultivar had the highest chlorophyll content during both seasons. In comparison to the other cultivars studied, the Wonderful cultivar showed the limited or no significant increase in peroxidase activity. This could be due to a genotype’s variable peroxidase activity potential in pomegranate cultivars under water stress. The obtained results may indicate that Manfalouty and Wonderful cultivars are more tolerant of deficit irrigation than the other cultivars studied.

Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata. C.C. 276, 7620 Balcarce, Buenos Aires, Argentina. ? Corresponding e-mail:marcellan.olga@inta.gob.ar

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.01

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Abstract: Interspecific hybridization is an effective way to create desirable rootstocks for grafting of fruit crops such as kiwifruit. Previous studies showed that interspecific hybrids in the genus Actinidia could be obtained through in vitro embryo culture. In attempts to develop vigor-controlling rootstocks, conventional intraploid crosses between two species that differ in the vigor of their root systems-A. arguta (Issai selection) and A. chinensis var deliciosa (four male genotypes)-were successfully performed without resorting to embryo rescue. A wide variation in root architecture characteristics was detected among the hybrid progenies. The identification of hybrids with less vigorous root systems than those of A. chinensis var deliciosa further highlights the potential of the intraploid hybridization between these species to develop rootstocks with size-controlling potential for kiwifruit. Statistically significant effects of male parent on seed set (xenia), and percentage of germination and normal hybrid seedlings were also detected in this investigation.

Graduate School of Agriculture, Kagawa University, Miki, Kagawa, 761-0795, Japan. Corresponding e-mail: etimekpiken@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.06

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Abstract: This study aimed to see how the timing of fruit thinning affected the fruit quality of the peach cultivar 'KU-PP2'. In the present study. 'KU-PP2' peach trees (12-year-old) were trained to an open center system at the Kagawa University Research Farm in Japan. Fruits were thinned at intervals of 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after full bloom (DAFB) on four branches per tree, for a total of 16 branches, to determine the best fruit thinning time for high fruit quality and larger fruit size. The branches were hand-thinned at each thinning date, keeping a distance of 10 cm between the fruits. Fruit maturity was accelerated by the fruit thinning treatments. Fruit weight and size increased when the fruits were thinned at 7 and 28 DAFB. Furthermore, the highest total soluble solids were found at 7, 14 and 28 DAFB, followed by 21 DAFB, which was higher than the control. All of the thinning treatments reduced skin and fruit firmness; however, the treatments did not affect flesh firmness. In control, the fruit colour value L was highest. The fruit colour value a, on the other hand, was the highest at 7 and 28 DAFB. Furthermore, b did not differ significantly between treatments, including the control. Based on our findings, we concluded that the 7 DAFB fruit thinning treatment produced the best results compared to other treatments.

¹Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. ²Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Bhopal, India. Corresponding e-mail: vahzarrinn@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.07

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Abstract: A healthy and robust seedling is one of the benchmarks for mechanical transplantation. The investigation aimed to see how different environmental conditions affect the growth of onion seedlings. Onion seedlings (varieties Puna Fursungi and Gavraan) were grown in an open field nursery compared to a protected structure viz., low tunnel and a 50 % shade net. During the nursery’s growth period, environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and solar intensity were recorded. At 50 days after sowing, physical and mechanical properties were observed. Higher temperature was measured in a low tunnel structure, followed by shade net and open field. The shade net structure had the highest percentage of seedling survival (76.23 %), followed by the low tunnel (68.77 %) and the open field (58.37 %). Plant height was also greater in the shade net structure, followed by the low tunnel and open field conditions, respectively. This could be attributed to how plants compete for sunlight, water, aeration, and nutrition under different growing conditions. Except for plant height, all physical and mechanical properties were higher in open field conditions. Because of its adequate strength, the healthy seedling obtained from open field conditions was more suitable for mechanical transplanting.

1Pomology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt. 2Viticulture Research Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: elsharkawy25518@agr.bsu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.08

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Abstract: This study aimed to improve the micrografting technique for rapid in vitro grapevine plantlet propagation using Flame Seedless scion and Freedom as rootstock. Explants obtained in vitro were cultured in MS media containing 0.4 mg L^-1 BAP. For micrografting, six methods were used: sterile wire ties, sterile metal needle, wax, aluminum foil, gel, and callus. Data was collected on morphological and biochemical parameters in micrografts produced using various procedures. With various degrees of success, all in vitro micrografting procedures successfully produced grafts. The best results of morphological parameters were recorded in micrografting in wax method with the highest survival (83.88%), number of shoots/explants (1.77), shoot length (1.66 cm), leaves/shoot (4.55), rooting (58.20 %), root length (1.27 cm). In contrast, the callus method had the least value for these parameters. Wax and aluminum foil methods were found to be a promising alternative to traditional grapevine propagation methods in the study.

¹Department of Food Science and Technology, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, ²Punjab Horticultural Postharvest Technology Centre, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, ³Department of Livestock Products Technology, GADVASU, Ludhiana. Corresponding e-mail: omarcellan@mdp.edu.ar; marcellan.olga@inta.gob.ar

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.09

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Abstract: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of various pre-treatments viz., potassium sorbate (T2), steam process (T3) and rose-flavored syrup (T4) compared to control (T1) on the final quality of osmo-dried apple cubes. Osmo-dried apple cubes developed from each treatment had moisture content in the range of 7.3-8.6% with 0.55-0.66 water activity. Pre-treatments proved to be effective on the product as bioactive components and antioxidant activity (%) were maximally retained in rose flavored apple cubes except ascorbic acid. Higher reducing sugars were observed in steam-treated apple cubes and lowest in rose-flavored apple cubes. In terms of colour attributes, potassium sorbate-treated apple cubes retained the most brightness, but texturally, these samples had the most hardness and the least cohesiveness. In contrast, steam-treated apple cubes had the lowest hardness and highest cohesiveness. The highest overall acceptability was noted for rose-flavored apple cubes in sensory properties. Red coloration of these apple cubes resulted in reduced L and highest a values with optimum textural properties. Overall, rose-flavored syrup as an osmotic agent produced flavoured dried apple cubes of improved quality.

Department of Vegetable Crops, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: satishanandan84@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.10

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Abstract: The current study was conducted during the summer seasons of 2018 and 2019 under net house conditions at the Eastern Experimental Station of the Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University to investigate the effect of some cucurbit rootstocks on the growth, quality, yield and chemical compositions of cucumber under drought stress. The study included 12 treatments that were arranged in a split-plot design with three replicates. The main plot included two levels of water irrigation (50 or100%) and sub main plot included five rootstocks viz., 1-Bottle Gourd (Legenaria siceraria), 2-Luffa (Luffa aegyptiaca), 3-Squash (Cucurbita pepo), 4- Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) and 5-Shintoza (Cucurbita maxima × Cucurbita moschata), in addition, to control treatment (Cucumber, cv. Hayel, without grafting). The results indicated that drought stress treatment (50%) significantly reduced leaf area and fruit length compared with normal irrigation (100%). Also, no significant differences were noticed between the treatments of water regime (50 or 100%) on plant height, photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, chlorophyll readings, fruit quality (fruit weight, fruit diameter and fruit TSS), total yield and K%. On the other hand, grafted cucumber onto luffa rootstock caused a significant decrease in plant height, fruit weight and P and K% in leaves, whereas grafting onto bottle gourd significantly increased leaf area and total yield of cucumber, as compared with control.

¹Department of Horticultural Science and Agronomy, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. ²Department of Horticultural Science and Agronomy, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. ³Department of Plant Protection, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran. ⁴ Department of Agriculture, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran. Corresponding e-mail: m-noori@araku.ac.ir

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.11

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Abstract: The present study aimed to enhance the vase life, maintain quality, and reduce the percentage of infection with gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea using fungal elicitors on cut flowers of roses. Based on a completely randomized design with three replications, a factorial experiment was performed. The eight treatments were as follows: three concentrations of fungal elicitor (600, 800 and 1000 ppm), the three concentrations along with B. cinerea fungal spores, sterile distilled water (as negative control), and B. cinerea spore suspension (positive control). Vase life, cell membrane stability index, superoxide dismutase, catalase, carbohydrate content, and disease severity on the leaves were measured during the experiment. The measurements were carried out on days 3, 7 and 10 after spraying the spores. The results showed that treating rose flowers with the elicitor (1000 ppm) improved soluble carbohydrate preservation, cell membrane stability index, relative water content, catalase enzyme, and leaf superoxide dismutase, resulting in a significant increase in vase life (15.66 days) compared to the control (8.66 days) (P?0.01). Evaluating the disease index also showed that the elicitor (1000 ppm) along with B. cinerea spores caused a significant increase in vase life (12.33 days) compared to the positive control (7.66 days) (P?0.01). Finally, the disease severity in treated samples was lower than that of the B. cinerea treatment as control.

Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Lorestan University, Khoram Abad, 44316-68151, Iran. Corresponding e-mail: raji.m@lu.ac.ir

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.12

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Abstract: Chemical pesticides used against house sparrows in areas where they cause significant damage to the quantity and quality of vineyard products can pollute the environment and harm the natural ecosystem. Sunflower seeds are a favourite food of house sparrows. The goal of this project, which lasted six years (2015-2020), was to see if marginal sunflower planting could reduce the amount of damage done to the vineyard crop by house sparrows. There was no marginal planting of sunflowers around the vineyard ('Red Raisin' cultivar) in the first three years of the experiment (2015-2017), and the sparrows damaged the vineyard crop by 32, 38, and 33 percent in 2015, 2016 and 2017, respectively. The vineyard had a large population of house sparrows at first. However, in the final three years of the experiment (2018-2020), when sunflowers were marginally planted (200 m²) around the vineyard at a distance of 50 m, crop damage by sparrow beaks was 2, 4 and 2 percent in 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively. During these three years, the vineyard's sparrow population was low, but the marginal sunflower field's population was high. As a result, planting sunflowers in the margins of vineyards is an effective way to reduce the damage caused by house sparrows.

¹Department of Horticulture, Aromatic and Medicinal Plants (HAMP), Mizoram University, Tanhril-796004, Aizawl, Mizoram, India. ²Department of Pharmacy, Regional Institute of Paramedical and Nursing Sciences, Zemabawk-796017, Aizawl, Mizoram, India. Corresponding e-mail: khanalsanjaya25@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.13

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Abstract: Haematocarpus validus is a promising fruit plant with an intense red fruit pulp that can be used as a natural food color source. The species can grow in the wild in its natural state, and it has not yet been successfully domesticated on a large scale. Fruit samples of H. validus were collected from various locations for this study, and the morphology and biochemical properties of the fruit were investigated. Observations revealed that the morphological characteristics and biochemical content of fruits collected from different geographical locations differ substantially. Furthermore, the findings of this study will serve as a starting point for future scientific research into the fruit’s potential, which includes serving as a natural source of food colour.

Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Kolar, Karnataka, India. Corresponding e-mail: ahmed.rasheedy@agr.cu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.14

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Abstract: Intake of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) may be increased by consuming high-sugar meals and foods cooked at high temperatures. AGEs-induced inflammation has been linked to diabetes and degenerative diseases. Leaves from mulberry (Morus indica L) (MI) trees have been used in Chinese medicine for over 3000 years and are a functional food because of their phytochemical content. MI extract was used to substitute 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1% of wheat ?our for making MI wheat bread (MI-B). 5% of turmeric powdered bread (TM-B) was also prepared and used as a positive control. The bread’s overall acceptability was determined using a sensory evaluation on hedonic test. Further, the antioxidant capacity was assayed by using DPPH method and antiglycation effects of MI extract against the formation of ?uorescent AGEs in fortified bread samples. The overall acceptability of bread with MI extract at substitution levels of 0.5% had a good liking score. The total polyphenol content in the MI-B and TM-B were 2.01 mg GAE g^-1 and 1.54 mg GAE g^-1 on a dry weight basis. MI-B showed significantly higher antioxidant activities, followed by TM-B > control bread. When compared to TM-B, AGEs inhibit fluorescent formation by 31%. Overall, the findings support MI extract as a functional food ingredient in the bread system, providing consumers with a higher antioxidant intake by depleting AGEs load. However, the stability and reactivity of polyphenols during thermal processing should be considered before commercialization.

¹Centre for Sago Research (CoSAR), Faculty of Resource Science and Technology, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia. ²PELITA Mukah Sebakong Sago Plantation Sdn Bhd 1^st Floor, Sublot 103, Lot 424, Mukah New Township, Jalan Orang Kaya Setia Raja, PO Box 79, 96400 Mukah, Sarawak. Corresponding e-mail:ahmed2hoba@agr.cu.edu.eg

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.15

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Abstract: Sago palm (Metroxylon sagu Rottb.) is an economically valuable crop and cultivated widely in Sarawak, Malaysia, for its storage starch. Under certain conditions, such as deep peat areas, some sago palms do not develop well and become stunted, described as non-trunking sago palms. Morphologically, this type of sago palm is abnormal, leading to wastage of various resources and affecting starch production. The research objective was to understand the molecular process that affects non-trunking and starch synthesis in sago palm. Representational Difference Analysis was performed to identify the differences between trunking and non-trunking sago palm transcriptome. This subtractive hybridisation technique detects the differences in gene expression. After three rounds of hybridisation, the differentiated RDA products were cloned and 24 DNA sequences obtained were compared with the sequences in the NCBI database. Results showed that the differentiated genes in response to the non-trunking sago palm have similarities to genes implicated in plant growth, cell metabolism, and salt or osmotic stress. Some of these genes are related to growth, development and signaling involving neutralising the imbalance in plant stress. The information obtained through this work could be used to develop a database on related genes and enzymes contributing to trunking and non-trunking sago palm.

¹College of Horticulture Sirsi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India.-581401. ²Regional Horticultural Research & Extension Centre, Dharwad, Karnataka,India-580005. ³College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India-587104. ⁴ College of Horticulture, Bangalore, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India- 560065. Corresponding e-mail:ratnakar.shet@uhsbagalkot.edu.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.16

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Abstract: Cucumis melo var. acidulus, also known as Mangalore melon, has been reported to have a shelf life of more than six months. A study was conducted to assess the variability in fruit traits with shelf life for 52 culinary melon accessions at room temperature. Fruits were suspended in the air, tied with smooth plastic fibre and pseudostem banana fibre, and hung from the roof of a laboratory, with observations made on fruit weight loss, rind colour change, and fruit decay. During storage, there was a significant variation in shelf life and rind colour change among the accessions. The correlation analysis revealed a significant positive high association between shelf life and weight loss during storage (0.602), followed by fruit weight (0.544), flesh thickness (0.401), fruit length (0.359), days to harvest (0.346), peduncle length (0.332), and fruit width (0.322). Twenty six accessions had a shelf life of more than 150 days. Green rind fruits were more prone to discoloration and decay. MS30, MS28, MS79, MS74, MS78, MS39, MS74, and MS6 were identified as promising accessions for shelf life with marginal weight loss, rind colour change, and fruit traits among the accessions. Understanding the physiological and biochemical changes that occur in fruits during storage, as well as the identification of candidate genes for shelf life, will aid in the use of this trait to improve the muskmelon

¹College of Horticulture, Sirsi, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India.-581401. ²Regional Horticultural Research & Extension Centre, Dharwad, Karnataka, India-580005. ³College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India-587104. ⁴College of Horticulture, Bangalore, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India- 560065. Corresponding e-mail: ratnakar.shet@uhsbagalkot.edu.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2022.v24i01.16

Key words: Shelf life, culinary melon, rind color, storage, fruit weight loss, Mangalore melon

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Abstract: Culinary melon (Cucumis melo var. acidulus) also known as Mangalore melon is reported with extended shelf life of more than six months. A study was conducted to assess the variability in the fruit traits with shelf life for selected 52 accessions of culinary melon at room temperature. Fruits were hanged in the air tied with smooth plastic fiber and psuedostem banana fiber, hanged to the roof of a laboratory and observations were recorded on fruit weight loss, change in the color of rind and fruit decay. Significant variation in shelf life and rind color change was observed among the accessions during storage period. The correlation analysis revealed that shelf life had significant positive high association with weight loss during storage (0.602) followed by fruit weight (0.544), flesh thickness (0.401), fruit length (0.359), days to harvest (0.346), peduncle length (0.332) and fruit width (0.322). Twenty-six accessions exhibited shelf life of more than 150 days. Green rind fruits were less vulnerable for discoloration and decay. Among the accessions MS30, MS28, MS79, MS74, MS78, MS39, MS74 and MS6 were identified as promising accessions for shelf life with marginal weight loss, rind color change and fruit traits. Understanding of physiological and biochemical changes in fruits during storage period and identifying candidate genes for shelf life will help exploit this trait to improve the muskmelon.