Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, P.O. Box 91779-8974 Mashhad, Iran. Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.30

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Abstract: Over utilization of medicinal plants from wild habitat is causing genetic diversity loss of these valuable plants. In order to determine the optimum planting date and density of oregano for successful production, a field experiment was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University, Iran. The experimental design was split-plot based on randomized complete blocks with three planting dates (April 19, May 5 and May 20) as main plots and four plant densities (8.33, 10, 12.5 and 16.67 plants m^-2) were assigned as sub-plots, all of which replicated three times. Results showed that planting date had significant effects on all traits except the stem proportion and 1000 seed weight. The highest values for all traits were obtained from the first date of planting, whereas values decreased with later planting dates. Also, stem number, plant spread, fresh and dry herb yield, seed yield and essential oil yield significantly influenced by plant density. With increase in plant density, stem number in per plant and plant spread decreased. The maximum fresh and dry herb yield (10618.23 and 2934.36 kg ha^-1, respectively) and essential oil yield (42.786 kg ha^-1) were obtained at the highest plant density. In conclusion, first planting date with higher plant density caused the greater essential oil yield, fresh and dry herb yield.

Central Siberian Botanical Garden of the Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090, Novosibirsk, Zolotodolinskaya st., Russia 101.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.31

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Abstract: The effective methods of rooting and acclimatization in the sphagnum moss of in vitro propagated microshoots of commercially promising plants: Rhododendron ledebourii, Rh. hybridum cv. ‘Cunningham’s White’ and Vaccinium uliginosum cv. ‘Golubaya rossyp’ were developed for the first time. Two methods were studied: 1) rooting in vitro and acclimatization in the substrate and 2) rooting and acclimatization ex vitro in the substrate. Taking into account two factors (rooting of microshoots only in vitro conditions and only from already rooted in vitro regenerants), we have achieved 100% of rooting of bog blueberry cv. ‘Golubaya rossyp’ and 73% of plants adapted to ex vitro conditions. The method of ex vitro rooting in the substrate has been proved as effective for Rh. ledebourii, rooting of it’s shoots reached 80-90% with 87% viable plants. Rh. hybridum cv. ‘Cunningham’s White’ showed the greatest plasticity among the studied species and cultivars on ability to rooting of microshoots. All tested methods gave up to 90-100 % rooted and adapted plants of this cultivar. It was revealed that in vitro rooting microshoots, followed by acclimatization in the substrate was optimal for V. uliginosum cv. ‘Golubaya rossyp’; for Rh. ledebourii – the rooting and acclimatization in the substrate; and for Rh. hybridum cv. ‘Cunningham’s White’ - both methods were effective. From a commercial point of view, the proposed methods decrease the costs of plant production significantly through a reduction in the time and labour needed to obtain well-rooted and acclimatized Ericaceae microplants. Therefore, it could make the micropropagation of commercially promising Ericacea plants in the nursery industry both possible and profitable.

Department of Horticulture and Crop Science, School of Agriculture, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan, 11942.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.32

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Abstract: Effects of foliar boron (B) application as H₃BO₃ on yield and fruits quality of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L. var. Medjool) were investigated. The experiment was conducted on 15 years old trees during 2017 growing season. Five different B levels (0, 400, 800, 1200 and 1600 ppm) were applied in a solution of 20 liters?tree^-1 at three equal doses in May, June and July. Fruit yield and quality parameters were determined at maturity harvest stage (tamer). The results showed that foliar B significantly affected yield, bunch weight, fruit set, fruit physical characters and fruit quality. Boron application at the rate of 1600 ppm resulted in 27 % increase in fruits yield (67.7 vs. 53.4 kg?tree^-1), 16 % increase in fruit fresh weight and flesh weight (22.0 vs. 18.9 g.fruit^-1), (20.9 vs. 18.0 g fruit^-1), respectively, fruit size (49.97 vs. 45.3 mm) and fruit set (88 % vs. 81 %) compared to control. However, the lower rate of boron (400 ppm) was more effective in enhancing fruit quality indices. Total soluble solid (Brix % 75.0), fruit firmness (5.56 kg?cm^-2), glucose content (43.17 %), fructose content (39.28 %) and fruit antioxidant activity (80 %) were significantly increased as compared to control. On other hand, date syrup pH, fruit density and fruit skin separation were not affected by boron application. Overall, the results presented here recommended the use of foliar rates of boron ranging between 400 to 1600 ppm to enhance fruit yield and quality in Medjool dates.

Laboratory of Forest Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Forestry and Natural Environment, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, P.O. Box 238, 52124 Thessaloniki, Greece.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.33

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Abstract: Almond-leaved tree is one of the most commonly found native forest species in Greece, exhibiting valuable properties and thus suitable for multipurpose silviculture. Several critical factors were studied for the development of a successful micropropagation protocol of Pyrus spinosa juvenile trees. Newly immerged shoots of three-year-old plants, after their surface sterilization, were established on a modified MS nutrient medium (thiamine-HCl 1 mg L^-1, nicotinic acid 1 mg L^-1, pyridoxine-HCl 1 mg L^-1) with 5 ?? ??. Clean explants were transferred in the multiplication stage on a novel medium (Pear Medium 1), by adding 10 ?? ?? especially developed for Pyrus species. Due to poor culture development, the effect of photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) on the improvement of regeneration was studied. The exposure of explants to 10 ?mol m^-2 s^-1 for the first two weeks followed by exposure to 35 ?mol m^-2 s^-1 for another two weeks, was proved essential for the good development of cultures promoting both multiplication and elongation of explants. For further enhancement of shoot regeneration, the use of Pear Medium 1 with five different combinations of growth regulators was tested (BA, IBA). The most beneficial for the development of good quality shoots was 5 ?? ??+0.0246 ?? ??? (4.67±0.40 new shoots per explant, elongation 1.28±0.13 cm). As multiplication was mainly based on axillary branching and the production of new shoots was still relatively low, the orientation of explants (horizontal vs upright position) in relation to the medium was investigated. Regeneration of shoots almost tripled, reaching 13.67 new shoots per explant in the case of horizontal orientation after the removal of the apical part (0.2 cm). The most successful rooting procedure (rooting: 83.33±5.89 %, root no: 6.20±0.49 roots per plantlet, root length: 0.56±0.05 cm) consisted of an initial stage of root induction maintaining microshoots in complete darkness for seven days. The rooting medium was a modified MS (½ NH₄NO₃, ½ KNO₃) supplemented with 24.6 ?? ???. Microshoots were subsequently transferred to a root development stage in the same rooting medium without auxin, exposed to 10 ?mol m^-2 s^-1 for another four weeks. Successful acclimatization (87.5 %) was achieved after six weeks on perlite.

Department of Biotechnology, School of Sciences (Block-1), JAIN (Deemed -to-be University), Bengaluru-560011, Karnataka, India. Division of Floriculture and Medicinal Crops, ICAR - Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru, 560089, Karnataka, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.34

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Abstract: A simpler and more efficient protocol for mass propagation of Anthurium from somatically derived in vitro shoots through suspension culture was developed. Shoot proliferation was obtained with agar-solidified MS medium as well as liquid MS medium, at various concentration of BAP. After 45 days of incubation at 80 rpm, both the media gave best results at 8.8 �M BAP, whereas higher number (29.333�0.342) of shoots was obtained with liquid medium compared to solid medium (7.667�0.342). The matured plantlets were harvested and subjected to acclimatization after 30 days of primary and 60 days of secondary hardening and then they were transferred to field. Survival rate of plants (71.3 %) in liquid medium was higher compared to the ones from solid medium (43.0 %).

College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Texas A&M University – Commerce, P.O. Box 3011, Commerce, TX 75429.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.35

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Abstract: Zinc is an important micronutrient for both plant and human health, and dietary zinc is insufficient in many areas of the world, caused by a diet dominated by grains and vegetables grown on zinc deficient soils. Celosia argentea L. is an herbaceous annual adapted to difficult soil conditions, low soil nutrient content, and hot weather and is commonly grown as a leafy vegetable in many parts of Africa. This study was conducted to evaluate zinc fertilization of celosia at levels higher than normally recommended, but below toxic levels, to determine the effect on plant performance and dietary value. Celosia was grown in a controlled environment with four zinc fertilizer treatments (0, 50, 100 and 150 mg Zn·kg^-1). Zinc fertilization had minor effects on plant growth, with differences only found in plant height and root fresh weight with both decreasing at fertilization levels above 100 mg Zn·kg^-1. Higher zinc fertilization increased root nitrogen, leaf and root zinc, potassium and magnesium concentrations, though leaf magnesium decreased at the highest zinc fertilizer levels. At 50 mg Zn·kg^-1, zinc fertilization toxicity symptoms were unexpessed thus it can improve plant performance and provide potentially significant dietary benefits to people with limited access to zinc in their diet.

Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore 641 003, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.36

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Abstract: The wood degrading fungi Ganoderma lucidum (Leys) Karst causing Basal Stem Rot (BSR) in coconut plantation is the most destructive disease in Southern India. The control of this soil borne pathogen is particularly complex due to their occurrence in dynamic environment at the interface of the root with the soil. Hence, combinations of biocontrol agents differing in their mode of action especially with endophyte have been explored. The endophytic bacteria Bacillus subtilis EPC 5 from healthy coconut palm root showed high inhibition activity among fifty five isolated strains. Further, talc-based formulation incorporating Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf1 and Trichoderma viride Tv1 were developed and used individually, in combination to manage highly virulent, laccase producing soil borne pathogen. The result indicated that soil application of above mentioned antagonist in combination @ 100 g each enriched with organic substrate for four times per year, significantly reduced the disease severity with high nut yield at two different locations of disease endemic areas.

College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Y.S.R. Kadapa District, A.P. Citrus Research Station, Tirupati, A.P. ARS, Floriculture, Hyderabad, Telangana.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.37

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Abstract: Fifty nine chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.) genotypes were evaluated for their performance under southern zone of Andhra Pradesh at HRS Farm, Anantharajupeta, Y.S.R. Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for all vegetative, flowering and yield traits studied. Genotype Selection-5 (56.50 cm) recorded maximum plant height, and plant spread was maximum in two genotypes Chandini and Violet (51.83 cm). Genotypes Sugandha Yellow and Sugandha White produced maximum (11.67) number of primary branches/plant while least in Yellow Cherub (2.33). Earliest bud appearance was observed in genotype Violet (61.67 days), whereas genotype Meera (113.52 days) was late. The highest number of flowers/spray and spray length was produced by genotype Yellow Star and Selection-2 (41.67 and 44.87 cm), respectively. Flower diameter was maximum in Firtation (10.06 cm), however, number of flowers/plant was highest in HYDC- 7 (287). The weight of single flower and 100 flower weight was maximum in Mother Teresa (4.96 g and 495.50 g). Keeping in view of these characters, genotypes Mother Teresa, Firtation and Chrysanthemum Yellow were found to be highly suitable to grow under Rayalaseema conditions of Andhra Pradesh for loose flower production. Based on hierarchical cluster of the morphological traits, the genotypes were grouped into three. Results of principal component Analysis (PCA) were also in conformity with the results of cluster analysis.

Crop Improvement and Biotechnology, ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow- 226 101, India. Division of Plant Physiology, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow- 226 001, India. Department of Botany, University of Lucknow, Lucknow- 226 007, India. College of Bio Sciences, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow- 226 025, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.38

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Abstract: Papaya leaf curl virus (PaLCuV) of geminiviridae family is a major threat to papaya plants in the world. The major visual characteristics of PaLCuV infected plants are downward and inward rolling and curling of leaves in the form of an inverted cup and thickening of veins. Microscopic observation showed that in the healthy papaya leaf, stomata guard cell size was 19-20 µm. However, it increased significantly in infected plant leaves up to 29-30 µm. This observation suggested that stomatal density and guard cell size were changed due to puckered anatomy of leaf. SEM analysis revealed that subsidiary or accessory cells of guard cells were less turgid and the arrangement of starch grains was disturbed as compared to healthy plant leaves. Light microscopic, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses of symptomatic leaves showed the puckering leaf lamina due to presence of loosened cells in its tissues and hyper-accumulation of Ca²⁺ ions. High accumulation of Ca²⁺ in PaLCuV infected leaves as compared to healthy leaves which might be the cause of hypertrophy and thickening of veins of infected papaya leaves. Uniform trichomes/hairs/nodular structures were present in midrib of healthy leaf but were missing in infected leaf. The infected midrib showed scantly distributed floret-like structures instead of a smooth trichomes/hairs/nodular structures in midrib of the healthy leaf.

University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.39

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Abstract: Carrot is a sexully propagating, biennial root crop. Flowering related characters and germination parameters have a significant role on the root quality and productivity in the succeeding generations. Larger genetic variation exists in nature for seed and umbel characters due its out crossing behavior. In order to study, the nature of genetic variability, heritability and the association pattern, 48 open pollinated varieties were evaluated in tropical region of Karnataka, India during 2015 for 27 characters including seed, umbel and germination parameters. Both qualitative and quantitative characters were used for the study. The data was subjected to statistical analysis for genetic variability components such as genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability in broad sense (h²) genetic advance (GA) and Genetic advance as percent mean (GAM) and Pearson’s correlation. Genetic variability and heritability coupled with genetic advance as percent mean (GAM) were high for number of umbellates per umbel, bolting tendency and umbel weight. Many other characters showed low to moderate genetic variability coupled with moderate heritability and GAM. From the correlation coefficient analysis few characters viz., density of flowers in umbels, number of umbellates/ umbel, umbel shape, bolting tendency showed positive association with seed and umbel yield. Seed length and size of spines on the seeds affects the germination % negatively. Since, the present study involves maximum characters and good number of cultivars with wider genetic background; hence, detailed understanding of the genetic variability and association pattern for these characters in the reproductive phase of carrot would provide useful information for breeders as well as seed scientists.

Department of Dryland Forestry, Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resource, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia. P.O.Box 128, Shashemene, Ethiopia. Hawassa University, College of Natural and Computational Science, P.O.Box 05, Ethiopia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.40

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Abstract: This study was carried out to determine the effects of cutting position (tip, middle and basal) and different concentrations of IBA (IBA) (0, 5, 7.5 and 11g/L) on the rooting and shooting performance of Araucaria heterophylla. Two factorial experiments were conducted. Number of leaf, number of adventitious root and root length produced by cutting materials and the survival rates were measured. These parameters were significantly influenced by the interactive effect of cutting position and hormonal concentration. The interaction between tip cuttings and 11 g/L IBA concentration had higher root number, leaf number and root length as compared other interactions had not rooting and shooting performance on the cutting materials. Vegetative propagation of A. heterophylla through cuttings can be appropriately achieved by treating cuttings with IBA.

Department of Plant Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin -240003, Kwara State, Nigeria. C.G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Uka Tarsadia University, Bardoli, Surat -394 350, Gujarat India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.41

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Abstract: This study assessed the genetic diversity of six ornamental ferns in parks and gardens in Nigeria using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. Genomic DNA were extracted from the samples and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was performed using seven ISSR markers. The elcetrophoregram showed amplicon size ranged from 100bp-1Kb among the ferns. A total of 87 bands were generated with 71.26 % polymorphism and 28.73 % monomorphic bands. The average number of band per primer was 12.4 and polymorphism range was between 31.23-100 %, the highest polymorphism was obtained with ISSR2. The mean Nei’s genetic diversity was 29 % while the Shannon’s index was 43.5 %. The pair of Adiatum capilus-veneris and Pteris acanthoneura had maximum genetic distance of 0.6592 while A. capilus-veneris and A. furcans are the closest species. At genetic similarity of 78 %, the cluster analysis revealed two major groups. Group-1 comprised of four species, where P. acanthoneura is a distant member, the other three species in the group are closely related. Group-2 on the other hand had two closely related Adiantum species. The study concludes that ISSR markers are effective in the genetic study of the ferns and the genetic diversity information provided could be utilized for selection, improvement and conservation of the ornamental plants.

Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod, Kerala 621124. Division of Plant Physiology, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012. ICAR-Directorate of Floricultural Research, Pune 411005. CPCT unit, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.42

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Abstract: Vase-life is a key factor for evaluating the post-harvest quality of cut flowers that determines their marketability. Chrysanthemum is one of the top most cut flowers sold in international flower markets. In the present study, trials were conducted to improve the post-harvest life of chrysanthemum cut flowers using preservative solutions such as 5-sulfosalicylic acid (5-SSA) and aluminium sulphate (Al₂(SO₄)₃) alone or in combination with 1.5 % sucrose. Treatments using 5-SSA (100 ppm and 150 ppm) or 200 ppm Al₂(SO₄)₃ along with 1.5 % sucrose showed a significant increase in vase-life, fresh weight of the cut stems, vase solution uptake, membrane stability index of the petals and leaf chlorophyll as compared to other treatments. Among different vase solutions evaluated, T10 (200 ppm Al₂(SO₄)₃ +1.5 % sucrose) gave maximum vase life of22.3 days, followed by T8 (5-SSA 150 ppm + 1.5 % sucrose) and T6 (100 ppm 5-SSA+ 1.5 % sucrose) treatments with 20.85 and 19.85 days respectively as compared to 17.84 days in control. High concentrations of both the chemicals (5-SSA and Al₂(SO₄)₃) without sucrose showed toxicity symptoms.

Department of Soil Sciences, the National Institute of Ornamental Plants (NIOP), HSIR, AREEO, Iran. +989188664220. Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil 56199-11367, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i03.43

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Abstract: Nutrition is the cornerstone of plant production. Here, efforts have been made to study the effect of different nutrient solutions from the Netherlands floriculture companies (S1; Schreurs, S2: Florist, and S3: Research Station for Floriculture and Greenhouse Vegetables(RSFGV) on two gerbera cultivars (‘Stanza’ and ‘Double Dutch’). Total chlorophyll index (SPAD), flower harvest per plant, flower stem height, disk diameter, total carbohydrate, lignin, and cell membrane stability were significantly affected by treatments. The highest number of cut flowers was harvested in RSFGV solution which was about 24% and 50% more than Florist and Schreurs solutions, respectively. Schreurs’s solution showed the best impact on cell membrane stability, total carbohydrate, and lignin production. Flowers stem height, disk diameter, and hemi-cellulose content were significantly increased by RSFGV solution. The cultivar ‘Double Dutch’ showed the highest cell membrane stability, total carbohydrate, hemi-cellulose, lignin, and vase life. Flower stem height was highest in the cultivar ‘Stanza’. The interaction of nutrient solution and cultivar affected the studied parameters significantly, and the highest vase life was obtained in the cultivar ‘Double Dutch’ fertigated with Schreurs solution (11.4 d). Results indicated that Schreurs and RSFGV solutions could be the proper solutions for producing high-quality cut gerberas commercially.

Department of Biotechnology, Shree M and N Virani Science College, Rajkot (India) 360005.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.19

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Abstract: Effect of various plant extracts during in vitro culture of rose (Rosa hybrida L. cv. bush rose), with the objective of replacing synthetic Plant Growth regulators (PGRs) to reduce the production cost, was studied. Test extracts included sweet lime juice, orange juice, sweet corn extract, tomato fruit extract and coconut water. Significant increase in shoot multiplication (15.41±1.12 shoots/explant), shoot length (3.66±0.08 cm), fresh weight (7.48±0.71 g) and dry weight (1.68±0.075 g) was observed when coconut water (@10 % v/v) was used in the standard MS medium. Addition of tomato fruit extract in the MS medium did not show any noteworthy effect on growth in rose micropropagules. Total chlorophyll and other biomolecules varied with the change in the type and concentration of plant extract. Highest accumulation of biomolecules was recorded on coconut water (@ 10 % v/v) supplemented MS medium followed by sweet corn extract and orange juice. Although tomato fruit extract (@10 % v/v) enhanced the total chlorophyll biosynthesis but at the same time depressed the accumulation of other biomolecules. Treatment of plant extract was given in two different ways; a) incorporation in the medium prior to autoclaving (PrA) and b) post-autoclaving addition of filter sterilized extract (PoA). No significant changes were noted in growth when mode of application was changed. To know the physiological pandemonium in the cells, peroxidase and IAA-oxidase activity was noted. No abnormal changes in the activity of these enzymes were recorded in the propagules grown on different plant extracts. The total cost of synthetic 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) can be reduced upto 98 % by replacing it with natural plant extract.

Graduate School of Agronomy and Horticulture, Bogor Agricultural University, Jl. Meranti, Kampus IPB Darmaga, Bogor 16680, Indonesia. Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University, Jl. Meranti, Kampus IPB Darmaga, Bogor 16680, Indonesia. Center for Tropical Horticulture Studies, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor 16144, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.20

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Abstract: Mechanical shoot manipulations through bending and defoliation were applied on mandarin citrus cv. Borneo Prima in order to stimulate flushing and flowering during the rainy season, Oct. 2016-July 2017 in the tropical lowland of Indonesia. Four-year-old citrus trees were treated with bending, defoliation and its combination; and were replicated ten times with single tree as an experimental unit. All manipulated shoots exhibited rapid flushing, particularly of those with defoliation. Unfortunately, no flower was produced on trees treated with defoliation or its combination. Bending stimulated a larger number of flowering and fruiting trees than control. Flower drop was lower in bending, resulted in higher number of fruitset and fruitlets than control. At the generative stage, mandarin showed high C/N ratio due to low nitrogen content, irrespective of treatment. The failure to produce flower on defoliation and its combination could be ascertained by steady C/N ratio. Overall, bending could be applied to improve flowering and support sustainable mandarin production in tropical condition, especially at lowland production fields in Indonesia.

Floral and Nursery Plants Research Unit, U.S. National Arboretum, U.S.D.A., Beltsville, MD 20705, U.S.A.. Statistics Group, U.S.D.A., Beltsville, MD 20705, U.S.A;

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.21

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Abstract: Micropropagation and regeneration systems were established for the U.S. National Arboretum accession, Ulmus parvifolia ‘Pathfinder’. Experiments were done using two lines of U. parvifolia, P-6 and P-10, each derived from a different, open-pollinated seed. Because micropropagation of U. parvifolia required the addition of a cytokinin to the Driver and Kuniyuki Walnut (DKW) medium, BA, mT, and TDZ were compared. Stem cuttings cultured on DKW containing 2.4 mg L^-1mT for line P-10 or 4.8 mg L^-1 mT for both lines P-6 and P-10 produced a significantly higher number of axillary shoots than cuttings on DKW lacking phytohormones. Stem cuttings on TDZ (0.25, 0.50, or 1.0 mg L^-1) produced a significantly lower number of axillary shoots. Axillary shoots of line P-6 formed roots at a low frequency (6 %) as compared to those of P-10 shoots (58 %) when cultured on DKW with either NAA (1.0 mg L^-1) or IBA (1.0 mg L^-1). Most of the shoots, 96 % of P-6 and 99 % of P-10, survived in soil in the greenhouse. Shoots were regenerated from leaves taken from in vitro-grown plants, and most of the regenerated shoots came from leaves of line P-10 and very few from line P-6. P-10 leaves cultured on DKW containing 7.2 mg L^-1mT regenerated significantly more plants than leaves cultured on DKW lacking hormones. The frequency of regenerated shoots from leaves cultured on DKW with mT(2.4, 4.8, or 7.2 mg L^-1) that formed roots in vitro was 47, and 98 % of the shoots survived in soil in the greenhouse. This study indicates the benefit of using mT for micro propagation and regeneration from leaves of U. parvifolia.

College of Fisheries Engineering, TNJFU, Nagapattinam. Professor, Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology, Thanjavur. Deputy Director General (Agrl., Engg., ), New Delhi, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.22

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Abstract: Four different stages of ripeness have been identified (immature, mature raw, semi-ripe and ripe) in commercial grading of muskmelon. Destructive measurement (by determining firmness, total soluble solids and titratable acidity) of muskmelon ripeness is time-consuming and labour-intensive. Further, conventional visual examination procedures demand expert graders. Hence, there is need for a suitable approach to evaluate the ripeness of muskmelon; a technique that can be scaled-up to on-line applications. The objective of this study was to develop an acoustic resonance based technique to evaluate the ripeness of muskmelon. The developed system consisted of a sample holding unit, impact device, sound acquisition system, signal analyser and computer. Acoustic response parameter, stiffness coefficient was correlated with various destructive parameters. During ripening, stiffness coefficient values decreased from 5.43 x 10⁶ Hz²g^2/3 to1.47 x 10⁶ Hz²g^2/3. The proposed methodology can be efficiently modified to determine the ripeness of various other horticultural products too.

Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India. Department of Botany, Fakir Chand College, Diamond Harbour, West Bengal - 743331, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.23

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Abstract: Common mandarin and Indian gooseberry are extremely important fruits and used in several countries for their medicinal properties. Bacillus licheniformis SR-14 strain was tested in vitro for their antagonistic properties against Penicillium digitatum, the causal agent of postharvest green mold decay in common mandarin and Indian gooseberry. In dual culture bioassay as circular and semicircular patterns, the isolate quantitatively inhibits the growth of the pathogen by more than 72 and 57 %, respectively. In vitro plate assay detected that the strain produces hydrolytic enzymes like protease, chitinase and volatile compound. Treatment with the antagonist also resulted in the induction of defense enzymes like, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, ?-1, 3-glucanase and higher phenol accumulation compared to control. In vivo application of the antagonist revealed that the maximum mean disease index reached to 1.16 and 1.41 in Indian gooseberry and mandarin, which showed around 65 and 63 % reduction in disease severity, respectively when compared to control. These experiments suggest that the strain could be considered as a promising mean for the control of mandarin and Indian gooseberry postharvest green mold decay and its use may be an effective method to improve the integrated disease management strategy.

Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center, 1815 Popps Ferry Rd, Biloxi, Mississippi 39532. School of Human Sciences, Mississippi State University, Box 9745, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762. Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center, 810 Hwy. 26 West, Poplarville, Mississippi 39470.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.24

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Abstract: Data was collected from florists who passed a rigorous examination in floral design ability and maintained certification through educational updates. The purpose was to identify the current profile and challenges of leading floral designers, members of the American Institute of Floral Designers (AIFD). Survey responses indicated more than one-fourth of the participants identified as traditional retail florists, operating brick and mortar shops. Remaining respondents were either specialized, studio designers, freelance designers, teachers or other. A slight income increase was observed in those with years of experience. AIFD membership was not statistically significant in relation to income level, but those with more years of membership earned more income. Educational level was not significant for any of the variables. Age, years of membership and work experience were highly correlated.

Faculty of Agriculture, University of Mataram, Jalan Majapahit 62 Mataram, Mataram-83127, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.25

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Abstract: Growth and production of apical stem cuttings under various soil-less culture conditions for mass production of potato G₁ seed tubers was investigated. Different cutting lengths, Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) concentration, and age of mother plants from which the cuttings were taken, were evaluated for survival and growth of the cuttings. In separate experiments, successful cuttings were planted at different spacings and fertilizer rates. The highest survival rate was obtained from apical cuttings with three nodes treated with 1 ppm IAA. The best cutting growth was obtained from cuttings derived from 2 to 3 week-old mother plants. Plant height and individual leaf areas were higher at low spacing (10 cm x 10 cm), and a higher dose of NPK fertilizer (40 g/plot). The number of tubers and tuber weight per plant were higher at a spacing of 20 x 20 cm and fertilizer dose of 40 g/plot. Although higher plant density resulted in smaller tuber size, the combination of close spacing and higher doses of fertilizer resulted in the highest yield per unit area. Importantly, stock plants showed no significant decrease in plant yield after cutting. The results indicate that apical cuttings can be used for the mass-propagation of G₀ seed plants to speed up and increase the efficiency of production of G₁ seed tubers.

Indonesian Citrus and Subtropical Fruits Research Institute (ICSFRI), Jl. Raya Tlekung, Junrejo, Batu, Indonesia. School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, 4343, Australia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.26

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Abstract: Managing agri-food chains based on the value defined by end consumers provides competitive advantage but requires a thorough understanding of consumers and their value preferences. This study was conducted to identify consumer preferences for apples and to segment consumers so that findings could be used to guide domestic apple value chain development in Indonesia. Data were collected through an intercept survey of 200 apple consumers in Malang, Indonesia. Three significantly different clusters of domestic apple consumers were identified. The ‘indifferent consumers’ disregarded the importance of most attributes of domestic apples, while ‘pro–sensory consumers’ valued sensory attributes more than search attributes. ’Value–conscious consumers’ rated most of the value attributes as important in making a purchase. This study identifies the need for adopting practices along the chain that enhance particular attributes of domestic apples so as to increase value for each consumer segment.

Department of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand, Iran. Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.27

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Abstract: This study was aimed to assess the effect of salicylic acid (SA) on quality and storage life of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) and performed in two experiments including foliar application and postharvest dipping of fruits in salicylic acid solutions. In the first experiment, pomegranate trees were sprayed at concentrations of 0, 1, 3 or 9 mM L^-1. After two months of storage at 5 °C, ionic leakage, total soluble solids, and decay of pomegranate fruit was examined. The results showed that ionic leakage and fungal decay decreased and total soluble solids increased in treated fruits compared to the control. In the second experiment, fruits were dipped in SA at concentrations of 0, 1 or 3 mM L^-1 and stored at 5 °C for two months to investigate the effects of salicylic acid on chilling injury (Cl), decay, and chemical attributes of stored samples. The results revealed that postharvest application of SA significantly increased total antioxidants and decreased chilling injury and decay of treated fruits. However, it did not significantly affect total phenol, total soluble solids, total anthocyanin and colour of fruits compared to the control.

Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Oklahoma State University, 358 Ag Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.28

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Abstract: Although effect of rooting hormone in the propagation of ornamental species has been studied by many scientists, very few have contributed to understanding the effect of supplemental carbon dioxide(CO₂) in rooting of plants. With the aim of understanding the effect of CO₂ in rooting and its interaction with rooting hormone treatment, a greenhouse study was conducted. Two identical greenhouses were used in which, one was supplied with an average of 800 ppm of CO₂and the other one was at about 400 ppm (ambient) throughout the rooting period. Rooting hormone treatments were control, 1000, 3000 and 5000 ppm concentrations of Dip’N Grow. Elevated CO₂ did not promote root development when compared to ambient condition. However, increasing rooting hormone concentration significantly affected the rooting parameters. Rooting percentage was not improved under elevated CO₂. Ambient CO₂ with 5000 ppm concentration of Dip’N Grow showed greater root number.

Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, CCSHAU, Hisar-125004, Haryana.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.29

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Abstract: Brinjal is an important vegetable crop in India and its production is mainly constrained up to 30 per cent due to the seedling and fruit rot caused by fungus, Phomopsis vexans. Although carbendazim is effectively used to control the P. vexans, it is detrimental to human and environment with long term usage. Hence, the present study was conducted to identify the bio-fungicide which can be used as an alternative to carbendazim. The results revealed that the seed germination was significantly superior with Trichoderma viride, T. viride + Pseudomonas fluorescens and T. viride + T. asperellum as compared to the carbendazim in blotter method while it was at par in pot culture experiment. The T. viride resulted in significantly higher seedling length (cm), seedling dry weight (mg), SVI-I and SVI-II as compared to the carbendazim in pot culture experiments. The disease incidence was significantly low and the disease control was significantly high in T. viride and its combinations with P. fluorescens or T. asperellum as compared to carbendazim in blotter method while, at par under pot culture conditions. Therefore, T. viride (5 g kg^-1 seed) can be effectively used as an alternative to carbendazim to improve the seedling vigour and control of P. vexans of brinjal.

Coastal Research and Extension Center, Mississippi State University, 1815 Popps Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39532, United States. Former Post-doctoral Associate, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State University Extension Service, 856 Hwy. 90, Ste. B, Bay St. Louis, MS 39520.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.16

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Abstract: Ethnicity plays a strong role in niche market development, and the market for specialty Asian crops is currently under-served. As Asian populations continue to grow in the southern United States, especially along the Gulf Coast, it is important for producers to recognize this opportunity. Fruits and vegetables desired by the diverse Asian population are often completely unavailable or of poor quality due to shipping distance. This market need can be met by local growers with a greater potential return on investment greater than traditional vegetables. This paper summarizes results of variety trials of Asian vegetables conducted during 2003 -2005 growing seasons at Mississippi State University, Coastal Research and Extension Center’s Beaumont Horticultural Unit (USDA Hardiness Zone 8a). These trials evaluated yield performance of Asian varieties of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) under coastal Mississippi environmental conditions. Cucumbers: ‘Natsuhikari’, ‘Tasty Queen’, ‘Crisp Petrel’, ‘Tokiwa’, ‘White Sun’, and ‘Summer Express’; bitter melon: ‘Large Top’, ‘Taiwan Large’, ‘Japan Long’, ‘Thailand Star’ and eggplants: ‘Round Green’, ‘Orient Charm’, ‘Ichiban’, ‘Millionaire’, ‘Green Giant’, ‘Purple Ball’, ‘Kurume’, ‘Purple Excel’, ‘Ping Tung Long’, ‘Mangan’, ‘Long Green’, and ‘Orient Express’ were grown conventionally on raised beds using drip irrigation and plastic mulch. Results indicated that cucumber varieties performed well, though their yield might have been affected by environment conditions. Average total yield and fruit numbers in 2004 were 65.5 and 56.1 % higher, respectively, compared to 2005. Marketable yield of Asian bitter melon varieties ‘Large Top’, ‘Taiwan Large’, and ‘Japan Long’, were higher than ‘Thailand Star’. Total eggplant yield varied greatly among varieties. Total yield of ‘Round Green’ in 2003 was highest compared to all other cultivars.

Assesment Institute of Agriculture Technology, Malang, East Java, Indonesia. Postgraduate Program, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia. Departement of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Brawiajaya, Malang, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.17

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Abstract: Lycopene and beta-carotene content of two antioxidants in tomatoes and productivity are strongly influenced by the intensity of solar radiation received by plants. The objective of this study was to elucidate the effect of shading on production, lycopene content and beta-carotene content of tomato varieties at medium land of Indonesia. The study was conducted in the area with an altitude of 515 meters above sea level, in Malang, East Java, Indonesia. Treatments tested in this study were arranged in a split plot design. The main plot was percentage of shading (0, 25 and 50 %). The subplot was tomato varieties (Juliet, Golden Sweet, Golden Shine and Betavila). The results showed that shading or lowering the level of solar radiation received by plants could improve the maximum air humidity but it did not change the minimum humidity. Minimum air temperature dropped by 1°C in the shade treatments of 25 and 50 % compared with no shade, while the maximum air temperature dropped by 4 °C in the shade of 25 % and by 5 °C under 50 % shade. Changes in the microclimate around the plants, especially the temperature and air humidity did not only increase the growth and productivity of plants, but also increased the chlorophyll content of leaves and lycopene of tomatoes. All varieties showed that the highest production was obtained when plants were shaded by 25 % compared with no shade or 50 % shade. In addition, lycopene in tomato varieties was also influenced by the microclimate around the plant, and the beta-carotene content was influenced by varieties of tomatoes and shaded level but not due to interaction.

Departement of Agronomy, University of Zabol, Iran. Agricultural Research Institute, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i02.18

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Abstract: Rhizobium inoculation increases nutrients uptake by modification of root characteristics. This experiment was conducted in 2015 at Zabol university research farm (Chah-Nimeh) in a completely randomized design based on factorial arrangement with three replications. The first factor was five levels of phosphate: 100, 75, 50, 25 and 0 (control) kg ha^-1 and the soil inoculation consisted of two arbuscular mycorrhizal: Glomus intraradices and G. mosseae. The measured traits include number of leaves, stem dry weight, root fresh weight, shoot dry weight, stem diameter, root length, plant height, SPAD readings, root and shoot nitrogen content, essential oil percentage and essential oil yield. Results indicated that using of G. intraradices and G. mosseae have no significant effects on rosemary essential oil yield. The highest and lowest essential oil percentage rate of 2.2 and 1.6 %, respectively were as a result of taking ammonium phosphate 100 kg ha^-1 and in the control (no ammonium phosphate). On the other hand, higher shoot (1.17) and root (1.96 ) nitrogen percentage and were recorded followed by interaction between G. mosseae species and the control, respectively. The SPAD readings of rosemary increased significantly by the application of fertilizer in levels. On interaction effects, G. intraradices (M1) and application of 75 kg ha^-1 ammonium phosphate treatments had the best SPAD readings. The results of this study indicated that the inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in soil with optimal fertilizer application greatly improved rosemary growth and nutrient uptake and the effect was greater under greenhouse conditions.

Professor and Director of Pomology and Viticulture Program, Parma Research and Extension Center, University of Idaho, 29603 University of I Lane, Parma, ID 83660, U.S.A. Research Associate of Pomology and Viticulture Program, Parma Research and Extension Center, University of Idaho, 29603 University ofI Lane, Parma, ID 83660, U.S.A.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.02

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Abstract: Cluster management in table grapes is an essential cultural practice for production of high quality table grapes and this practice has not been studied in the Intermountain northwest region in the USA. Thus, the objective of this project was to determine the optimal cluster threshold for improving yield and berry quality attributes of Alborz table grape in the inland Pacific Northwest United States during 2010 through 2012. Non-thinned control vines had 71 clusters in 2010 but had 39 and 40 during 2011 and 2012, respectively. Clusters in non-thinned control vines were longer but lighter than those in the other treatments. Berries in the non-thinned control vines were always lighter in weight and smaller in size than those in the other treatments. Berries from vines with 28 clusters tended to have more uniform red color with lower overall green color while those from non-thinned control had more green color. Vines with 20 and 28 clusters tended to have greater soluble solids concentration (SSC) but those in non-thinned control and with 36 clusters had lower SSC. Overall, the cumulative yields of non-thinned control vines were similar to those with 36 clusters during two out of three years. Considering all quality attributes, between 28 and 36 clusters per vine was the optimal number for production of yield and quality attributes.

Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor 16680, Indonesia. Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Funako, Atsugi, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.03

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Abstract: Morphological variation in triploid apomicts Amorphophallus muelleri has been postulated low, here, we present for the first time macroscopic variation in floral morphology from natural and gibberellin treatments. Agamosporous A. muelleri exhibited morphological variations on 35 out of 45 floral characters. Organ variation was apparent on peduncle, spathe, stigma, carpel, and appendix; that could relate to different genetic background. It seems that gibberellin application at initial stage of flowering incresed the existing morphological variation; causing phenotypic plasticity in three characters, i.e., sheath length, disposition of second spathe and degree of limb apex shape. Present study implies that floral characters can be used as key to determine true-to-type of A. muelleri. Further study is needed to clarify the variation on apomict A. muelleri using approaches such as metabolomics and hormonal dynamic during flowering.

Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 9/621 Ha Noi Avenue. Linh Trung ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam. Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, 19 Nguyen Huu Tho, Tan Phong, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry, 140 Le Trong Tan, Tay Thanh, Tan Phu, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.04

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Abstract: Tissue culture has become a promising technique to produce biomass and active secondary metabolites in some species of medicinal plant with in short period of time. However, most of the plant growth regulators utilized as vital agents in the culture process are harmful to human bodies. In this study, Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo PLBs was subcultured on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 30 g L^-1 sucrose, 8 g L^-1 agar, and various concentrations of coconut water or banana extract to investigate the effect of these organic additives on Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) proliferation and shoot regeneration. Subsequently, the chemical composition of the material was qualitatively analyzed by standard color reactions and the methanolic extract were also tested upon DPPH radical scavenging and inhibition assay for antioxidant and antimicrobial activity assessment, respectively. The nutrient screening showed that treating 0.3 g fresh PLBs of D. officinale in medium containing 20 % coconut water produced the highest PLB biomass (2.21 g) whereas the similar culturing using 20 % banana extract generated only 1.98 g PLB biomass. The qualitative chemical tests recognized the presence of various phytoconstituents such as glycosides, flavonoids, steroids, triterpenes, phenolic compounds and saponins. The DPPH assay revealed the antioxidant activity of the methanol extract in a dose dependent manner with the IC₅₀ value of 0.84 mg mL^-1. In addition, this methanol extract showed a stronger inhibitory activity against Gram negative bacteria than Gram positive bacteria. These finding suggested that coconut water could be a potential alternative nutrient to common unhealthy regulators in the production of the biomass of interest.

Water Engineering Department, International Campus of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. Water Engineering Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.05

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Abstract: In today’s world, the growth of urban and suburban population has increasingly shifted the balance between the water demand and the available water resources. Moreover, the synchronization of maximum consumption of water in urban landscapes with the drinking water sector has caused the landscape to be a serious competitor for urban drinking water sources. This study investigates the effects of environmental variations at two locations (lake complex and city center park in Golbahar, Khorasan Razavi province, Iran), and irrigation intervals at three levels (daily, 2-day and 3-day) on some performance characteristics of urban landscape plants (height, root length, leaf relative water content, proline in lawn and mixed lawn, electrolyte leakage and stomatal conductance in lawn, mixed lawn and mixed tree) based on soil moisture measurements. Sensors were installed after calibration at depths of 0-10 cm for lawn and at depths of 0-10, 10-30 and 30-50 cm for mixed lawn and trees. The highest moisture depletion for lawn was observed in both locations due to the level of evapotranspiration in August, July, and June, respectively. In the city center park, the soil moisture percentage and soil adsorption rate at the time of irrigation as well as the rate of desorption was higher than the lake complex. In mixed lawn and tree pattern, the moisture content of the soil layers decreased with increase of depth, and the maximum desorption occurred in July and August. The effect of microclimate resulted higher lawn height value at the lake complex than the city center park, and there was no difference between the lawn and the mixed lawn. Also, with increase in irrigation interval, the height of lawn was significantly decreased. Moreover, the effect of location of irrigation and irrigation interval on root length was not significant. The relative water content percentage decreased 28 % in three-day irrigation compared to daily irrigation. For proline concentrations, only location and irrigation intervals were significant. The lower levels of electrolyte leakage indicated higher resistance of tree in similar irrigation conditions, which increased 12 percent with increase in irrigation intervals, from 1 to 3-day. The average stomatal conductance in the leaves indicated that it was less for the lawn than the tree in the same irrigation interval due to the greater resistance of the tree to drought against lawn. Upon the results, soil moisture sensors can be used as a tool in irrigation decision making which could contribute to water saving in amenity urban landscapes.

Faculty of Life and Environmental Science, Shimane University, Matsue, Shimane 690-8504, Japan. National Institute of Vegetable and Floriculture Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8519, Japan.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.01

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Abstract: The effect of planting densities on yield, plant morphology, and physiological characteristics in determinate-type cooking Suzukoma tomato were examined [high density (HD), medium density (MD), and low density (LD), corresponding to 792, 396, and 264 plants a¹¹]. Although the fruit yield per plant under HD was 0.6 and 0.5-fold lower than that under MD and LD, respectively, the yield per area under HD was 1.2- and 1.5-fold higher than that under MD and LD, respectively, because planting density under HD was 1.5- and 3.0-fold higher than under MD and LD, respectively. There were no differences among planting densities of fruit set ratio, fruit weight, marketable fruit ratio, and soluble solids content. Lateral shoot length at the first cotyledonary node and third to fifth true leaf nodes under HD was shorter than one third of those under LD. Hence, the total numbers of flowers and fruits per plant were the lowest under HD. The extent of reduced photosynthetic rates and SPAD values for the third, fifth, and seventh true leaves under HD were not so larger compared to LD, despite being extremely reduced photosynthesis photon flux density (PPFD) at a low position in the plant community. The causes of decreased lateral shoot length at intermediate nodes under HD compared to LD suggested that the concentrations of isopentenyl adenine riboside (iPR) and trans-zeatin riboside (tZR) in stems, and IAA, iPR, tZR, and trans-zeatin (tZ) in lateral shoots under HD were lower than in those under LD. From these results, it was indicated that yield per area under HD was higher than under LD due to the morhological and physiological change of the plants by light conditions in the plant community.

Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 9/621 Ha Noi Avenue. Linh Trung ward, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam. Faculty of Applied Sciences, Ton Duc Thang University, 19 Nguyen Huu Tho, Tan Phong, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry, 140 Le Trong Tan, Tay Thanh, Tan Phu, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.06

Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Centre-Kade, School of Agriculture, College of Basic and Applied Sciences University of Ghana, Legon. Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Oil Palm Research Institute- (Coconut Programme), P.O. Box 245, Sekondi-Takoradi, Ghana. School of Agriculture, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon..

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.07

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Abstract: The effect of endogenous content of cytokinin (trans- zeatin riboside, T-ZR) and auxin (indole-3-acetic acid, IAA) in coconut water from fruits at four different fruit maturity stages: liquid endosperm, solid endosperm formation stage, semi matured endosperm stage and fully matured dried fruit stage on proliferation of axillary bud initiation and development of local plantain cultivar (cv. Asamienu, Musa AAB) was investigated at the University of Ghana Forest and Horticultural Crops Research Centre, Kade. The results indicated that the IAA content decreased while the T-ZR content increased with fruit maturity. Three weeks after treatments, the highest number of well-differentiated axillary buds was obtained for suckers treated with coconut water from fruits at liquid endosperm formation stage whilst the highest number of fully developed plantlets was produced from treatments with coconut water at semi-endosperm formation stage. One month after the application of the split corm technique, the highest number of additional well-differentiated axillary buds and fully developed plantlets were produced from treatments with coconut water at the liquid endosperm formation stage. In general, treatments with coconut water from fully matured dried fruits produced the largest and the most vigorously growing plantlets.

Department of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Ketintang Campus, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, Indonesia.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.08

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Abstract: This study focused on the absorption of lead (Pb) by two species of ferns, Salvinea molesta Mitch and Marsilea crenata Presl. The aim of this research was to describe the accumulation of lead in S. molesta and M. crenata roots and leaves, and in addition, to find whether these are accumulators or excluders. Both of these ferns were grown in a hydroponic system to which there was added Pb at 0, 5, 10, and 15 ppm concentration, exposed for 7 and 14 days. After the treatment, determination of the lead amounts in the roots and leaves used the AAS method and the RGR calculation. The data were analyzed by ANOVA using SPSS Program 16 edition. The results showed that the accumulation of lead was higher in the roots than the leaves. Both of the ferns had a bioconcentration factor of more than 1 and the factor of translocation was low, i.e., less than 1. It is concluded that S. molesta and M. crenata are appropriate species for phytoremediation, especially as excluders.

Horticulture Science Department, Agriculture Faculty, Shahrood University of Technology, P.O. Box 3619995161, Shahrood, Iran. Horticultural Sciences Department University of Florida Gainesville FL 32611 U.S.A. Agricultural Biotechnology Department, Agriculture Faculty, Shahrood University of Technology, P.O. Box 3619995161, Shahrood, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.09

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Abstract: We tested the effects of bud scale removal and different application rates of gibberellin (GA₃) on bud break of dormant vegetative buds of two apricot cultivars. The shoot explants of "Jafari" and "Rajabali" cultivars were collected from one-year-old dormant branches and cultured in woody plant medium (WPM), supplemented with 2 mg L^-1 of benzyl amino purine (BAP), 0.04 mg L^-1 3-bndolebutyric acid (IBA). Treatments included three different concentrations of GA₃ (4, 6, and 8 mg L^-1), and removed and unremoved scale bud forms. The results indicated that none of the unremoved scale buds sprouted even when GA₃ treatments were used (P?0.01). The average of bud sprouting in removed scales buds was 62.77%. The maximum bud sprouting (72.5%) occurred in treatment with 8 mg L^-1 of GA₃ and removed scale buds. There was a significant difference between two apricot cultivars on vegetative dormant bud break percentage when scale removal of buds was done. The removed scale bud of "Jafari" and "Rajabali" cultivars sprouted 55.22% and 70.33%, respectively. This study showed that the scales are probably containing inhibitory substances such as abscisic acid and by removing them, bud break will occur. Also, this method provides the possibility of in vitro culturing of apricot trees in non-growing seasons (winter).

Division of Crop Improvement and Biotechnology, Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.10

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Abstract: Mango (Mangifera indica L.) encompasses of diverse varieties for different traits owing to their evolution by open pollination and natural selection processes over several generations. Phylogenetic relatedness and confirmation of hybridity of out-crossed progenies in mango are the pre-requisites for improving the precision of selection in trait based breeding. In this context, two chloroplast genes namely trnL and trnF genes localized within the chloroplast LSC region were used for sequence characterization of 8 mango varieties/hybrids to affirm hybridity and trace their inheritance. Sequence annotation and analysis revealed that both these genes were able to discriminate the 8 varieties. The hybridity of Arunika, a progeny generated from a cross between Amrapali and Vanraj, was also confirmed. Sequence level variations in the hybrids in comparison with the parents indicated that the inheritance of chloroplast genes is not strictly maternal but could be even paternal or biparental in nature. Thus, chloroplast genes which were usually thought to be markers for plant species discrimination could also apparently be used as genetic markers for hybridity confirmation at the population level.

Nam?k Kemal University, Agricultural Faculty, Biosystem Engineering Department, 59030-Tekirdag, Turkey.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.11

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Abstract: The experiment was conducted during the growing season 2014 and 2015 to evaluate the water use and vegetative growth parameters of walnut trees under different amount of irrigation water. The irrigation water was applied based on a ratio of Class A pan evaporation as 50, 75 and 100 % through drip irrigation. In the first year of the study in all treatments water was applied 8 times amounting between 58.30 and 116.59 mm irrigation water. In the second year, irrigation was applied 15 times and 95.26 and 190.47 mm of irrigation water was applied. Results revealed that the seasonal evapotranspiration in the treatments during the measurement period varied from 264.41 and 304.77 mm in 2014 and from 346.49 and 418.76 mm in 2015 depending on the irrigation treatment. The effects of different irrigation practices on the vegetative growth parameters of walnut trees were also studied. The study revealed that the amount of irrigation water applied to the walnut trees had no significant effect on vegetative growth parameters.

Defence Institute of High Altitude Research, Defence Research & Development Organization, C/o 56 APO, Leh-Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir) India-194 101. DIHAR, DRDO, C/o 56 APO, Leh-Ladakh (Jammu & Kashmir) India-194101.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.12

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Abstract: The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of two different planting materials (set and seedling) and genotypes on bulb yield, its quality and vegetative growth. The experimental material comprised of two planting material and ten genotypes. The experiments were conducted at High Altitude Research, Defence Research and Development Organization, Leh during 2013 and 2014 in Randomized Block Design with five replications. There was significant effect of planting material and genotypes on all the studied parameters. Wall Brown genotype showed highest plant survival, chlorophyll content, days to maturity, polar diameter, equatorial diameter, average bulb weight and bulb yield when grown through set among all the genotypes. The highest plant height and number of leaves, leaf area, were obtained in the genotype Brown Spanish. The highest TSS and dry matter were observed in the genotype Red Cereole. The lowest double/deformed bulbs and neck thickness was observed in the genotypes Lock Roy and Red Cereole. The results indicated that all the genotypes under set planting performed better than seedling ones.

Department of Horticultural Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran-Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.13

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Abstract: Production of healthy, vigorous seedlings is necessary for optimum growth and high yields in field and greenhouse production of peppers. Pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a warm season crop and applying cooler temperatures during seedling growth may have some benefits, but it can reduce plant growth. In present study, effects of foliar application of synthetic and organic fertilizers were evaluated on growth and quality of chili pepper seedlings under greenhouse conditions with cool temperature of 15±3ºC. Treatments were foliar application of fertilizers in a 0.2 % concentration of: 1) N20:P10:K20, 2) Biomin (an organic aminochelate fertilizer), 3) Humifolin (a humic acid based fertilizer), 4) Biomin+Humifolin, 5) a synthetic macro-micro mixture, 6) soil application of NPK (600 mg.kg^-1 of the N20:P10:K20 formulation) and 7) a no fertilizer control. Fertilizer treatments improved seedling overall growth except for plant height and stem diameter. Most growth and quality traits were best improved by foliar application of organic Biomin aminochelate followed by Humifolin fertilizer. Higher values for leaf area, leaf number, chlorophyll index, root and shoot biomass, and leaf concentration of soluble sugars, N, K, Ca and Zn, were attributed to foliar application of Biomin aminochelate and Humifolin. The mixture of Biomin+Humifolin had reduced values of those parameters indicating possible negative interaction when these two organic fertilizers are mixed. So, under cool temperature foliar feeding of organic fertilizers (aminochelate) can effectively improve nutrients status and transplant’s quality of pepper.

Precision Farming Development Centre, Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.14

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Abstract: A study was conducted to assess the effect of drip fertigation and plastic mulching on tomato at Precision Farming Development Centre farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 9 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments consisted of 3 mulching levels of black plastic mulch of 50 micron thickness, 25 micron thickness and no mulch, and 3 fertilizer levels of 80, 100 and 120 % of Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF). The results of the study showed that the different levels of drip irrigation and plastic mulching significantly influenced the plant growth parameters of tomato. Among the various treatments, black plastic mulch of 25 micron thickness and drip fertigation with 120 % RDF (240:300:300 kg of NPK/ ha) recorded maximum plant height (112 cm), earlier flowering, and fruit set and highest yield (67.41 t/ha). The highest net income and benefit cost ratio of Rs. 4,18,911/ ha and 3.66, respectively was also recorded in the black plastic mulch of 25 micron thickness along with fertigation @ 120 % RDF compared to other treatments.

Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, Maharashtra, India. Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth,, Rahuri, Maharashtra, India. State Level Biotechnology Centre, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth,, Rahuri, Maharashtra, India.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2018.v20i01.15

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Abstract: In the present study, molecular characterization of pomegranate cultivar ‘Bhagwa’ and ‘Bhagwa’ like genotypes available in Maharashtra of India was undertaken along with two other cultivars, Phule Arakta and Mridula to assess their authenticity and diversity. All the 14 ISSR primers used were found polymorphic producing a total of 171 reproducible amplicons with an average of 12.5 amplicons per primer, out of which 144 amplicons (90.28 %) were polymorphic. The similarity coefficient between the genotypes varied from 0.00 to 0.94. Maximum similarity coefficient (0.94) was observed among four different genotypic combinations and high similarity coefficient (? 0.90) was observed among 18 different genotype combinations indicating that these genotypes are least divergent from each other. The UPGMA based cluster analysis using dice similarity coefficient grouped 19 pomegranate genotypes into two major clusters. The closely related genotypes of ‘Bhagwa’ cultivar of pomegranate could be clearly differentiated from cultivars Phule Arakta and Mridula.