¹Botany Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. ²Vegetable Research Department, National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: hayam1111@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.13

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: The present study aims to explore various alternatives to alleviate the detrimental effects of salinity on tomato plants subjected to salt stress. An experiment was conducted in pots during the growing seasons of 2021 and 2022. Hybrid Super Strain B of tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) seedlings were transplanted in pots with a diameter of 0.3 m and a capacity of 15 liters, filled with washed sand. Subsequently, fresh water was used for irrigation for two weeks, after which salinity treatments were applied. To achieve targeted EC levels (control, 2000, 3000, and 4000 ppm), saline water was mixed with fresh water. Two weeks after transplantation, foliar sprays of nano-K or nano-P were administered three times during the seasons, at two-week intervals. The findings indicate that increasing salinity levels had a significant negative impact on the growth and production aspects of all plants. However, the negative impacts were mitigated by the application of nano fertilizers, particularly nano-K. The results suggest that the mitigation effects of foliar application of nano fertilizers could be attributed to the partial recovery of nutrient imbalances caused by salinity stress.

¹Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India. ²Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Kumulur, India. ³ Department of Spices and plantation crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India.⁴Mathematics, Department of Agricultural Meteorology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, India. Corresponding e-mail: saiprasanthravuri@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.14

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Capsicum annuum L., also known as bell or sweet pepper, is a globally significant horticultural crop in the Solanaceae family. India’s red and yellow colored capsicum holds 13^th rank in export. In India, color capsicum is a valuable crop, yielding 2.34 times more per square meter in protected cultivation comparing open field. Tamil Nadu contributes 16,689 tonnes on 284 hectares, comprising 5.13% of India’s total. Modern agriculture benefits from automation and robotics, especially in protected cultivation for selective, high-quality capsicum harvesting, reducing labor fatigue. In consideration to the issues like timely and repetitive harvestings and shortage of labour a study was focused to develop a robotic harvester. The study evaluated the engineering attributes of red and yellow capsicum during protected cultivation, classified into size categories A, B and C. Moisture content ranged from 83.6% to 87.12%. Capsicum dimensions spanned 57 mm to 110 mm in length, 52 mm to 98 mm in width, and 51 mm to 96 mm in thickness. Red capsicum had slightly larger arithmetic, geometric, square mean, and equivalent diameters, with sphericity ranging from 0.89 to 0.93. Surface area varied from 87 cm² to 316 cm², volume from 108 cm³ to 363 cm³, and mass from 67 g to 226 g, with red capsicum slightly larger. The highest static friction coefficient was with aluminum, at 0.61 to 0.66. Using the CIELAB model for color estimation, the significant color difference for red and yellow capsicum were 79.26 and 70.28 respectively. Moisture content was negatively correlated with aspect ratio and sphericity, and other attributes had positive correlations. This data is valuable for potential capsicum harvesting mechanization in robotics and protected cultivation.

¹Department of Vegetable Science, C.O.H., V.R. Gudem, Andhra Pradesh. ²Department of Horticulture, C.O.H., Chinalataripi, Andhra Pradesh.³Department of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh. ⁴Department of Soil Science and Agronomy, C.O.H., Parvathipuram, Andhra Pradesh. ⁵Department of agricultural statistics, C.O.H., V.R. Gudem, Andhra Pradesh. Corresponding e-mail: bsvas333@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.15

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Commercial exploitation of bitter gourd hybrids is primarily focused on yield, while limited research has been conducted on the quality aspects of this crop. The study was conducted during the Summer and Kharif seasons of 2022 to identify superior hybrids compared to the standard checks in terms of significant quality traits. A total of 21 crosses were produced by crossing seven genetically distinct parents in a half diallel mating pattern during the summer of 2022. A total of 7 parents, 21 F1 hybrids, and 2 checks were assessed using a randomized complete block design with three replications during the Kharif season of 2022. The crosses, viz., Kashi Mayuri x IC-44418 and IC-44418 x IC-68314 have shown better performance in terms of quality aspects such as TSS. On the other hand, Kashi Mayuri x Special Boldar and IC-44418 x Special Boldar were found to be superior than commercial checks, Pragathi and Monarch for vitamin-C. Significantly greater heterosis for iron content was observed in the crosses viz., Kashi Mayuri x IC-469512, IC-433630 x IC-469512, and Kashi Mayuri x Special Boldar. Charantin, known for its antidiabetic properties, is a significant quality character present in fruits. The hybrids viz., IC-44418 x IC-68314, IC-433630 x IC-68314, and IC-68314 x IC-469512 demonstrated a significant increase in charantin heterosis. The superior cross combinations identified in this study warrant further evaluation to assess their potentiality and stability for commercial release as hybrids or varieties.

¹Department of Agriculture, Central University of Technology, Free State, Private Bag X20539, Bloemfontein, South Africa. ²ARC – Vegetable, Industrial and Medicinal Plants, Private Bag x 293, Pretoria, South Africa. ³Department of Soil- and Crop- and Climate Sciences, University of the Free State, PO Box 339, Bloemfontein, South Africa. ⁴Department of Microbiology, University of KwaZulu Natal, Private Bag X540001, Durban, South Africa. ⁵Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20 Hatfield, Pretoria, South Africa. Corresponding e-mail: zkhetsha@ut.ac.za

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.16

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Plants get exposed to multiple stresses throughout their phenological growth stages. At most, these stresses are attributed to single or combined stresses like salinity, water deficits, wounding, mineral deficiencies, potting bag size, soil/root media density and type, soil pH, and the type of production system employed. Multistress factors have been widely reported to reduce the plant growth and development, strength, yield, and quality of horticultural crops globally. In the literature, reports extensively recommended the use of silicon-based biostimulants to improve the growth and development of commercial horticultural plants; however, little has been reported in South Africa on the recovery response mechanisms of beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), and kale (Brassica oleracea L.) grown under multi-stress conditions treated with silicon-based biostimulants, and using the cheaper eco-friendly production systems. In South Africa, most silicon-based biostimulant production companies reserve their novel concoctions as their company secrets; thus, many of the products are never tested in public to ascertain and monitor compliance with the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies, and Stock Remedies Act 36 of 1947 in South Africa. On the other hand, emerging farmers and smallholder growers are failing to afford existing agricultural insurance options, thereby affecting their yields against the commercially developed farmers. Although the government aids farmers, the assistance does not cover all costs associated with the multistress losses. Some farmers and growers adopted advanced production systems; however, at most, these systems are costly and rely primarily on electricity as a source of power, which is a challenge in South Africa. This paper explains various production systems used by commercial and emerging farmers, and the smallholder growers in South Africa to reduce costs related to multistress losses. Moreover, an alternative eco-organic production system that applies silicon-based biostimulant as a novel idea for commercial vegetables grown under extreme multi-stress conditions is recommended for emerging farmers and smallholder growers in South Africa. Future studies should be based on eco-friendly production systems in vegetable production in line with Sustainable Development Goals, to combat poverty and improve the livelihood of the African countries.

¹Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram- 695522. ²Deparment of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram- 695522. Corresponding e-mail: pmerinpjose@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.17

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, to evaluate the efficacy of micro irrigation and mulching on growth and yield of bhindi in rain shelter. The experiment was carried out in a split plot design with four replications. The treatment consisted of 5 main plot treatments (i₁: Surface drip irrigation, i₂: Rain hose irrigation, i₃: Sub surface drip irrigation at 10 cm, i₄: Sub surface drip irrigation at 15 cm, i₅: Sub surface drip irrigation at 20 cm) and 2 sub plot treatments (m₁: No mulch, m₂: Organic mulch). Dry banana leaves available in the area was used as organic mulch @ 10 t ha^-1. Results of the study revealed that types of irrigation had significant influence on yield and yield attributes, water productivity, water use efficiency and economics of bhindi. Sub surface drip irrigation at 10 cm depth recorded the highest fruit yield m^-2 (2.29 kg). Water productivity and water use efficiency was 45% and 27% higher in sub surface drip irrigation at 10 cm depth than rain hose irrigation. Significantly higher net returns (? 5.31 lakhs ha^-1) and B: C ratio (2.39) were observed in sub surface drip irrigation at 10 cm depth, which was on par with sub surface drip irrigation at 15 cm depth. Based on the findings of the study, sub surface drip irrigation at 10 cm depth along with organic mulching can be recommended for bhindi cultivation for obtaining higher yield, water use efficiency and economics.

¹Department of Chemistry, College of Basic Science and Humanities, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha. ²Department of Chemistry, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar 751004, Odisha. ³Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Odisha. Corresponding e-mail: pradip_callme@yahoo.co.in, nanda.spandan56@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i01.18

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: For a realistic solution, the synthesis of a cost-effective and efficient photocatalyst for the environmental need is utmost essential. Here, a simple in situ hydrothermal method that is a type of “green synthesis” since it doesn’t require harmful chemicals was used to synthesise the simple catalyst Co₃O₄/reduced graphene oxide/biochar (CBG). The Co₃O₄ nanoparticles are finely distributed over the sheets of reduced graphene oxide and biochar during the morphological examination, making the composite stable and appropriate for environmental applications. This catalyst was specifically used to create a Z-scheme heterostructure composite that significantly improves the Co₃O₄ and biochar/rGO photocatalytic performance when exposed to visible light. When it comes to dye and heavy metal Chromium (VI) degradation, the catalyst composite exhibited significantly greater catalytic efficacy compared to individual catalysts. The structural, morphological, and optical features of the CBG nanocomposite were primarily responsible for its exceptional visible light photocatalytic activity with a maximum kinetic rate constant. By optimising the catalyst ratio, the herein described technology can be used to create a promising photocatalyst for environment friendly and sustainable development.

¹Banasthali Vidyapeeth, Jaipur, Inida. ²ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow-226101, India. ³Krishi Vigyan Kendra, ANDUAT, Ayodhya, India. Corresponding e-mail: damhort73@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.40

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: The field survey conducted in Rajasthan, India, unveiled the widespread occurrence of Fusarium wilt in cumin fields that have been continuously cultivated for approximately 4 to 5 years. The incidence of this disease exceeded 30%, affecting cumin plants at all stages of growth, with severe symptoms ultimately resulting in the complete mortality of the plants. In laboratory studies, a bacterial isolate known as Bacillus licheniformis (CSR-D4) exhibited remarkable in vitro effectiveness, significantly inhibiting Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cumnini (FOC) mycelial growth by an impressive 79.85%. In controlled pot experiments, cumin plants treated with B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) displayed milder symptoms than untreated plants, demonstrating a notably higher tolerance level, with only a 15% disease incidence as opposed to 90% in untreated plants. Further analysis of defense enzymes revealed elevated chlorophyll, carotenoid, peroxidase activity levels, and proline content in cumin plants treated with B. licheniformis (CSR-D4). Field assessments confirmed the efficacy of this bacterial isolate, as it successfully suppressed wilt incidence by 60%, significantly increased crop yield by 71.16%, and promoted root and shoot growth. Notably, applying B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) did not negatively impact beneficial microorganisms, and no adverse phytotoxic symptoms were observed. This study underscores the considerable potential of B. licheniformis (CSR-D4) in managing Fusarium wilt, offering an environmentally friendly and highly effective solution to enhance the health and productivity of pea plants.

¹Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, P.O. Box 31982, 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.2023.v25i03.41

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Chrysanthemum is a short-day plant, which flowers when the night length is longer. Photoperiod and temperature are two key environmental factors that affect time of flowering. In the current research, experiments were carried out to study the flowering response of two cultivars of chrysanthemum, i.e., Crimson Glory and Snowscape under four distinct photoperiods (8, 11, 14, and 17 h d^?1), shading levels (20, 30, 40, and 60%), and temperatures (10, 15, 20, and 25 °C). A qualitative short-day response was observed in all experiments. Both cultivars took minimum time to flower when grown under 8 h d^?1, however, it was significantly delayed when photoperiod decreased. Similarly, days taken to flowering were decreased significantly when plants were grown in 30% shade, which was delayed by increasing shade level (40 and 60%). Temperature also had a significant effect on the developmental phases of flower as above (25 °C) and below (10?15 °C) 20 °C temperature delayed flowering time. The present study also confirms that per day rate of progress to flowering was higher at 8 h d^?1 photoperiod, in 30% shade level, and at 20 °C temperature. These findings revealed a prospect of plant scheduling of the flowering time of chrysanthemum cultivars grown in long-day photoperiod to extend their marketing period, as the plants remains vegetative. A steady supply of this flowering annual can also be maintained in the market by growing them under different shades. The quality of plants would also benefit from an ideal growing temperature of between 15-20 °C.

¹Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Diponegoro, Indonesia. ²Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, University of Diponegoro, Indonesia. Corresponding e-mail: eprihast@yahoo.co.id

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.42

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Vanilla is a type of spice plant with high economic value. The availability of healthy vanilla seedlings is now one of the conditions for successful large-scale vanilla cultivation. Conventional cultivation of vanilla generally uses a vegetative method (cuttings), in which the growth of roots and shoots is slow, so it needs to be accelerated. Application of the combination of plant growth regulator and biological inoculant is expected to stimulate root growth and development. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factors, namely auxin, which consisted of 4 concentration levels, namely: A0 (0 ppm), A1 (50 ppm), A2 (100 ppm), A3 (150 ppm); and T. harzianum which consisted of 4 concentration levels, namely: T0 (0 g), T1 (2 g), T2 (4 g), and T3 (6 g). Data analysis used quantitative methods. The results showed that there was no interaction between T. harzianum and auxin. The addition of T. harzianum could increase the vegetative growth of vanilla cuttings in the parameters of shoot growth time, plant height, number of leaves, fresh weight, and root length while the application of auxin affects the increased in the number of roots of vanilla cuttings.

Department of Biotechnology, Atmiya University, Rajkot (India) 360005.Corresponding e-mail: preetam.joshi@atmiyauni.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.43

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: The current work aims to provide a cost-effective and reliable micropropagation method of banana using some natural extract of unexplored potential seaweeds. We tried natural extract of eight different seaweeds (C. racemosa, Gracilaria edalis, Caulerpa paspaloides, Ulva lactuca, Sargassum tenerrimum., Caulerpa sertularioides, Sargassum wightii, Gracilaria corticata.) to check their role in in vitro growth and development of micropropagules and their potential in replacing commercial plant growth regulators (PGRs) in banana micropropagation. The in vitro developed shoots were allowed to grow on modified MS medium supplemented with different seaweed extracts and regularly subcultured on the same medium throughout the experiment. The growth and biochemical parameters were recorded and compared with micropropagules growing in a controlled environment (i.e., MS medium supplemented with/without standard PGRs). We found a significant increase in shoot length (highest in S. tenerrimum, i.e. double as compared to negative control), shoot number (highest in G. edalis, i.e., three fold as compared to negative control) and fresh weight (S. tenerrimum) of the banana micropropagules when grown under the influence of Liquid Seaweed Extract (LSE). This is comparable to growth observed in standard control conditions (i.e. positive control). However, addition of LSE of G. corticate, C. paspaloides and S. wightii did not show any noteworthy effect on shoot length, shoot number and fresh weight. Total chlorophyll and other biomolecule accumulation in test propagules varied with types and concentrations of LSE. S. tenerrimum proved to be overall good growth promoter, as it caused maximum accumulation of chlorophyll (0.202±0.02 mg g^-1) and protein (105±0.45 mg g^-1) and significant and encouraging results in phenol, carbohydrates and proline. Our results show that seaweed can be potential source of beneficial natural compounds and it can be a cheaper option in banana micropropagation technology.

Department of Postharvest and Handling of Vegetable Crops, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt.Corresponding e-mail: mona.montasser75@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.44

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: This study was conducted during 2022 and 2023 seasons to evaluate the influence of 1-MCP as sheet contained 5%, exposed to ozone gas (4 or 7 ppm), active MAP (5% O₂ + 5% CO₂ or 5% O₂ + 10% CO₂) and passive MAP as compared with untreated control on quality attributes and storability of asparagus spears (UC157 F₂) during storage at 2°C and 90-95% RH for 20 days. Results indicated that asparagus spears treated with all postharvest treatments were effective in reducing weight loss %, curvature, Phenylalanine ammonia-lays enzyme activity, discoloration, colour change, O₂ consumption and CO₂ production as well as in maintaining total chlorophyll, total phenolic and the overall appearance of spears during storage as compared with untreated control. However, asparagus spears treated with ozone gas at 4 ppm were the most effective treatment in preserving all the quality attributes of spears. Furthermore, this treatment showed the excellent appearance of spears without any discoloration and curvature till 20 days of storage while ozone gas (7 ppm), 1-MCP and active MAP (5% O₂ + 5% CO₂) treatments gave a good appearance at the same period. The gas composition inside the package treated with ozone gas at 4 or 7 ppm had high O₂ and low CO₂ %.

¹Department of Spices and Plantation Crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, India. ²Department of Plant Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics, Centre for Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, Tamil Nadu, India. ³Department of Plant Pathology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, India. Corresponding e-mail: chandrakalaraj897@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.45

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Spiny coriander (Eryngium foetidum L.) is a perennial medicinal herb commonly cultivated in tropical regions, notably in India, where it is celebrated for its culinary applications, providing garnish and flavor enhancement to a multitude of dishes while also being employed in traditional remedies for various ailments. In this study, we investigated the volatile flavor constituents of this unique plant via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and found that the essential oil content of Eryngium leaves was approximately 0.15%. GC-MS analysis of the essential oil extracted from E. foetidum leaves revealed the presence of 50 distinct compounds. Remarkably, among constituents, trans-2-dodecenal was the most abundant, representing a substantial 23.74% of the total composition, thereby playing a pivotal role in defining the unique flavor of Eryngium. With their remarkable chemodiversity, Eryngium species hold great potential for applications in various industries, including the culinary, pharmaceutical and fragrance sectors.

¹Centre of Excellence for Farmer Producer Organizations, UHS Campus, GKVK, Bengaluru, India. ²UAS Bengaluru, India. ³College of Horticulture, Bengaluru, India. Corresponding e-mail: basavarajg73@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.46

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Jasmine is one of the major commercial flower crops cultivated in all most all districts of Karnataka. Hadagali jasmine (Jasminum azoricum) grown in Huvina Hadagali taluk of newly formed Vijayanagara district has got Geographical Indication (GI) due to its unique fragrance. A large section of the farmers surrounding the villages of Huvina Hadagali cultivate jasmine as their source of livelihood. Research studies to examine the production practices, marketing and constraints associated with jasmine cultivation in Huvina Hadagali were limited. Hence, a study was undertaken to understand the production and marketing practices of Hadagali jasmine. The primary data was collected from 60 jasmine growers during 2020-21. The results of the study have shown that with the average yield of the flowers at 3,236 kg per acre, the total cost of cultivation was Rs. 2,24,069 per acre and farmers realized gross and net returns of Rs. 4,53,579 and Rs. 2,29,511 respectively. The benefit to cost ratio at 2.02 showed that the establishment and maintenance of jasmine garden was economically viable. About 70 per cent of sample farmers sold jasmine to distant markets and the trade was facilitated by commission cum wholesalers. A kilogram of GI jasmine was transformed into 20 lengths of 4-6 ft in wholesale market and are sold as strings of 1-1.5 ft in retail market at Rs.20/length. The price spread between producer and consumer in the most frequently traded channel is Rs. 280 per kg and share of the producer in consumer rupee was only 35 per cent. GI jasmine is an important source of livelihood for different value chain actors and provides ample opportunities for floriculture business. Hence, support should be extended to jasmine growers to form farmer producer organizations (FPO) which will facilitate both forward and backward linkages, explore options for value addition and promote exports to enhance farmers income.

¹LR21AGR02-Agrobiodiversity and Ecotoxicology, High Agronomic Institute of Chott-Mariam, University of Sousse, 4042, Sousse, Tunisia. ²LR21AGR03-Production and Protection for a Sustainable Horticulture, Regional Research Centre on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture (CRRHAB), 4042 Chott-Mariem, IRESA, Tunisia. ³Regional Research Centre on Horticulture and Organic Agriculture (CRRHAB), IRESA-University of Sousse; 4042 Chott-Mariem, Sousse, Tunisia. ⁴Centro de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas de Extremadura. Km. 372; 06187 Guadajira (Badajoz)- Spain.Corresponding e-mail: chokribayoudh@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.47

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Fig (Ficus carica L.) cultivation is affronting serious problems caused by biotic and abiotic stresses. Application of in vitro techniques became necessary for plant material sanitation, rapid propagation and conservation. The present study aims the regeneration of in vitro plants of local fig cultivars using different explant types. For that purpose, shoot tips, meristems and leaf segments of 3 local fig cultivars (Soltani, Zidi, Bither Abiadh) and a caprifig (Assafri) were cultivated in vitro. MS media with different concentrations of growth hormones: ?-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP), Kinetin (Kin), N6-(2-Isopentenyl)adenine (2iP), Gibberellic acid (GA₃) and Thidiazuron (TDZ) and various antioxidants were tested for explants initiation, multiplication and rooting. The combination of 0.2 mg L^-1 BAP, 0.1 mg L^-1 GA₃ and 0.1 mg L^-1 NAA was the most appropriate for the best meristem establishment rates. The highest establishment rates were obtained with explants taken in spring for Zidi (62.3%) and Bither Abiadh (96.7%) and in autumn for Assafri (100%). From shoot-tip explants, Zidi gave the highest shoot number during the multiplication step. The rates of leaf fragments regenerating adventitious shoots, reached 75.6% and 57.2%, respectively, for Soltani and Assafri on media enriched by TDZ and IBA. MS medium with 1 mg L^-1 IBA allowed the best rooting rates for Bither Abiadh and Assafri explants. Vitroplants in vivo rooting was more effective due to their high success rates and the simplicity of the method. Three months after acclimatization, the survival and success rates of the vitroplants were 80-90%.

ICAR- Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Lucknow (U.P.) – 226101, India. Corresponding e-mail: ravi.sc@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2023.v25i03.48

 Free Full-text PDF |

Abstract: Understanding the essential role of ethylene release in the long-distance transportation of climacteric fruits, like mangoes, is crucial. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between ethylene release and the postharvest ripening of mangoes. The research employed innovative ripening sachets to control the ripening process, specifically focusing on extending shelf life and enhancing quality. Dashehari mangoes exposed to ripening sachets releasing 100 ppm of ethylene exhibited improved quality attributes. The 6^th day post-treatment recorded the highest total soluble solids (TSS) at 17.37 °B and the lowest acidity at 0.23%. Ascorbic acid content and firmness were measured at 22.50 mg 100 gm^-1 and 2.63 kg cm^-², respectively. Polygalacturonase activity in mango pulp (11.80,08.56 U mL^-1 min^-1) and peel (34.00, 20.30 U mL^-1 min^-1) peaked on the 4^th and 6^th day, respectively. The peel colour L* value increases from 2^nd to 6^th day after treatment, whereas the a* and b* values increased from 2^nd to 4^th day and the a* and b* values gradually decreased on 6^th day in all the treatments except T₄. The study suggests that ripening sachets have the potential to effectively regulate mango ripening and preserving fruit quality for an extended period.