SELECTED CONTENTS

<br /> <b>Warning</b>: Undefined variable $action in <b>/home3/hortivff/public_html/abstract.php</b> on line <b>205</b><br /> Journal of Applied Horticulture Selected Contents of Year

2025 |2024 |2023 |2022 |2021 |2020 |2019 |2018 |2017 |2016 |2015 |2014 |2013 |2012 |2011 |2010 |2009 |2008 |2007 |2006 |2005 |2004 |2003 |2002 |2001 |2000 |1999 |0 |
Pooran Mal Meena*, R.K. Aggarwal, Purnima Mehta and H.C. Sharma

Department of Environmental Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, (HP), India. @E-mail: pooranmeena.evs@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.19


Key words: Mid-hill, agroclimatic indices, heat use efficiency, regression models, yield, broccoli, benefit-cost ratio
Abstract: A field experiment was conducted in the mid-hill zone of Himachal Pradesh representing the sub-humid zone to study the phenological behaviour and heat use efficiency of broccoli crop under abiotic stresses. The broccoli variety, Sakata was evaluated under three thermal environments (T1- 8th October, T2 -28th October and T3- 18th November). To expose the crop to different thermal environments, two mulching levels (M1-with black mulch and M2- without mulch) and two irrigation levels (I1- Irrigation at different phenological stages I2- rainfed conditions), during rabi season of 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Different agroclimatic indices were computed viz., accumulated growing degree days, helio-thermal units, photothermal units and heat use efficiency. The regression models were developed between the agroclimatic indices, yield and dry matter accumulation of crop. It was found that the broccoli crop sown on 28th October (the normal date of transplanting) took maximum (132) days to reach maturity. The number of days required to attain different phenological stages decreased with delayed sowing. The accumulated growing degree days requirement at the harvesting stage (921.4 ºC day) was observed maximum in timely transplanted (28th October) crop resulting in a higher yield per plot (10.4 kg) and decreased with late transplanted (18th November) crop. The crop utilized heat more efficiently under a timely sown crop. The highest heat use efficiency (HUE) was observed in the crop sown on 28th October and 8th October (27.37 and 25.35 kg/ha/°C/day), respectively. The regression models were developed between curd yield, dry matter accumulation and thermal units of the crop. The model explained 0.50, 0.44 and 0.47 variations in curd yield whereas 0.69, 0.58 and 0.63 variations in dry matter accumulation with different agroclimatic indices under different transplanted dates, mulching and irrigation levels respectively. Broccoli cultivation yielded a profit of ?5.17 lakhs/ha, demonstrating its profitability for farmers. The study highlighted that timely sowing, black mulch, and optimal irrigation significantly improved heat utilization efficiency in mid-hill sub-humid regions. Black mulch improved soil moisture and temperature, creating ideal conditions for broccoli, a thermo-sensitive crop.
J. Shankaraswamy1* and N.C. Okechukwu-Ezike2

1College of Horticulture, Mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, India. 2Imo State University, Owerri, Nigeria. Corresponding e-mail: shankara.swamy@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.74


Key words: Cassava varieties, fermentation, functional properties.
Abstract: Freshly harvested cassava varieties (NR 8082, TMS 419, TMS 4(2) and TMS 30572) were each divided into 5 portions, peeled, washed, soaked and fermented for different times (0, 24, 48, 72, 96 hours) in water. The water was regularly changed at 6-hour intervals. Both the fermented and unfermented (fermented for zero hours) tubers were mashed, bagged, de-watered (with a hydraulic press), oven-dried, milled, sieved and packaged. The zero-fermented or unfermented cassava flour represented high-quality cassava flour (HQCF). The flours obtained (HQCF and fermented odourless cassava flours) from the four cassava varieties were used to study the effect of fermentation time on quality characteristics of odourless flours from four cassava varieties comparatively. Most of the measured quality characteristics of cassava flour were affected by varietal differences. The results showed that fermentation, irrespective of cassava variety, influenced progressive increases in foaming capacity (3.76 - 4.19%), water absorption capacity (1.27-1.53g/g), oil absorption capacity (2.99~3.23g/g), emulsion capacity (40.65-46.68%), The longer the period of fermentation, the higher the level of increases for the above-stated quality parameters. However, beyond 48 hours of fermentation, the quality parameters started decreasing with an increase in fermentation time. And there were decreases in bulk density (0.74-0.72g/cm3), swelling index (1.18-1.07%), gelation temperature (71.33-68.67°C), viscosity (0.182-0.176Pa.s), wettability (11.59-7.49s) and photometric colour index (7.71-5.84) as time of fermentation increase from 0-96 hours. Therefore, cassava tubers should be fermented for 48 hours to obtain cassava flours with good functional properties.
Arshad Bhat1* Durgeshwary Kolhe2, Abid Sultan3 H.A. Malik4, Md Sarafraz Equabal5, M. Latief6, Parvaiz Rashid6 and Iqra Qureshi7

1Institute of Liberal Arts, Amity University Mumbai. 2Institute of Behavioural and Allied Sciences, Amity University, Mumbai. 3School of Agricultural Economics and Hort-Business Management, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar. 4KVK, Bandipora. 5Depatrment of Economics, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar. 6Department of Commerce and Management, Gandhi Memorial College, Srinagar.7Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture, Rangreth, Srinagar, India. Corresponding e-mail: bhatarshad09@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.75


Key words: Cash crops, production, productivity, relationships, farm inputs, farming practices
Abstract: The goal of the current study was to identify the factors influencing apricot production in India’s Ladakh region. Data was collected from 200 respondents in the Ladakh region using a pre-tested interview schedule. The data was analyzed using multiple regression modeling, along with frequency and percentage calculations, to derive the results. A significant portion of apricot growers (27.5%) were obtaining 50–60 kg of yield per tree, while the majority (60.5%) farmed apricots on just one kanal of land. Additionally, 56% of apricot growers applied farmyard manure (FYM), and 45.5% of growers used chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, reports of aphids and scale on the apricot crop accounted for over 77% and 94.5% of the cases, respectively. In addition, apricot growers reported brown rot and scab in over 88% and 94.5% of cases, respectively. In terms of dormant practices, 89% of the respondents were hoeing, while 68.5% applied Horticultural mineral oils (HMO) and 74.5% Bordeaux mixture. The results of the regression analysis showed that brown rot was found to be inversely but significantly related to apricot production, while the application of chemical fertilizers, FYM, HMO, and Bordeaux mixture was found to be positively and significantly related to apricot production. The study suggests paying extra attention to enhancing stone fruit production by establishing more connections with research and agricultural extension centers and organizations. By implementing intercropping, appropriate land division, and allocation for cash crops such as vegetables, stone fruits, and grains, farms can provide access to microcredit at the microlevel.
P. Srinivasu1, M. Kalpana1, V. Aparna2, L. Naram Naidu1 and M. Paratpararao1

1College of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem-534101, West Godavari, Andhra Pradesh, India. 2Scientist, Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-Central Plantation Crops Research Institute, Kasaragod-671124, Kerala, India. Corresponding e-mail: Psrinivasu344@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.76


Key words: Coconut, desiccation methods, pollen moisture, pollen yield, pollen viability
Abstract: The study was carried out to investigate the effect of desiccation methods on pollen moisture content, pollen yield, percent of pollen viability, pollen germination and pollen tube length of coconut varieties grown in coastal Andhra Pradesh. In this study, four different varieties were subjected to various drying methods (drying at room temperature for 12 and 24 h, oven drying at 30ºC for 12 and 24 h, and oven drying at 40ºC for 12 and 24 h). Results showed a significant difference among treatments, varieties and the interaction between the desiccation methods and varieties. Chowghat Orange Dwarf (COD) staminate flowers dried at 40ºC for 24 h had less moisture content, whereas the maximum was in East Coast Tall (ECT) staminate flowers dried at room temperature for 12 h. Although staminate flowers dried in an oven at 40ºC for 24 h yielded more pollen, pollen viability %, pollen germination %, and pollen tube length were recorded maximum in staminate flowers dried in the oven at 40º for 12 h. Minimum pollen viability %, pollen germination % and pollen tube length were recorded in staminate flowers dried at room temperature for 24 h. This study demonstrates that desiccated staminate flowers contribute to an increase in pollen quantity by reducing moisture content. The resulting pollen can be effectively utilized in breeding programs throughout the year.
Disha Chahal and Krishna Kumar*

Discipline of Geography, School of Sciences, Indira Gandhi National Open University (HQ), New Delhi-110068. Corresponding e-mail: dr.krishnakumar@ignou.ac.in, disha1chahal@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.77


Key words: Citrus, kinnow, sustainable livelihood, SWOT analysis, quantitative strategic planning matrix
Abstract: The study evaluated the current situations and emerging issues of Kinnow farming for sustainable livelihood within the Sirsa district of Haryana, India. The quantitative SWOT-QSPM approach was utilized to analyze the factors influencing Kinnow cultivation and to estimate interrelated strategies. A total of 29 factors encompassing 14 internal (7 strengths(S) and 7 weaknesses(W)) and 15 external (8 opportunities(O) and 7 threats(T)) were recognized by examining data collected through personal interviewing and using questionnaires from 100 farming households located across 10 different villages of district Sirsa with the help of purposive random sampling. Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) and External Factor Evaluation (EFE) matrices identified that favorable climatic conditions of the region for kinnow farming (S1, 3.8) and Phytophthora infection, pests attack, diseases and lack of knowledge in the specific identification of symptoms in kinnow orchards (W6, 3.6) were the most listed internal strength and weaknesses. At the same time, potential opportunities for the establishment of food processing industries (O5, 3.6), organized cold storage to deal with the perishable nature of the product (O7, 3.4) and unfair pricing/ price crash in times of bumper production (T3, 3.2) encompassed the most concerning external opportunities and subsequent threats in the region. The results further revealed that the revitalization of kinnow export (WT1, 130.85), launching of cold storage chains (WT2, 124.9) and control of diseases (WT3, 101.15) may become the competent action plans to cope with the negative aspects. The establishment of citrus estates with post-harvest facilities (SO3, 96%) and developing food processing industries within the district to enhance local employment and income opportunities (SO1, 94%) may be considered the most appropriate positive (SO) strategies to ensure prosperity and sustainable development of Kinnow farming in the Sirsa region.
Smail Acila1,2*, Wafaa Metouri1 and Assia Moume1

1Department of Biology, Faculty of Nature and Life Sciences, University of El Oued, Algeria. 2Laboratory of Biodiversity and Application of Biotechnology in the Agricultural Field. Algeria. Corresponding e-mail: smailacila@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.78


Key words: Quinoa, seed germination, seedling growth, salt stress, salt tolerance, cultivar variation
Abstract: This study investigated the impact of salt stress on seed germination and early seedling growth in five quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) cultivars. Seeds were subjected to sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations ranging from 0 to 205 mM. The Blanca de Junin cultivar exhibited superior performance, maintaining 100 % germination even at 205 mM NaCl, while Amarilla Sacaca showed the lowest germination percentage (63.75 %) at this concentration. Germination energy at 205 mM NaCl ranged from 92.5 % in Blanca de Junin to 56.25 % in Amarilla Sacaca. Seedling length reductions at 205 mM NaCl varied from 44.76 % in Blanca de Junin to 71.29 % in Salcedo. Radicle length decreased by 31.68-73.16 % under severe salt stress. The results highlight significant variability in salt tolerance among quinoa cultivars, with Blanca de Junin demonstrating robust salt tolerance during germination and seedling stages. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding salt-tolerant quinoa varieties and expanding cultivation to salt-affected regions, contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture in marginal lands.
R.L. Bhardwaj*, K. Choudhary, Kiran Hingoniya, Priyanka, Anita Sharma and Jaydeep Meena

College of Agriculture, Sumerpur-Pali (Rajasthan) 306 902, India. Corresponding e-mail: rajubhardwaj3@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.79


Key words: Aloe vera gel, coating, fruit firmness, physio-chemical properties, shelf-life
Abstract: An experiment was accomplished to examine the coating effect of calcium chloride (CaCl2) and Aloe vera gel on postharvest shelf life and physico-chemical quality of highly perishable spine gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb.) fruits. Nine possible combinations of three levels of calcium chloride (10, 20, and 30%) and Aloe vera gel (10, 20, and 30%) were used for fruit coating in three replications. Fresh spine gourd fruits, which were treated with 30 percent of CaCl2 and A. vera gel, showed significant (P<0.05) lower values of physiological loss in weight, fruit decay percent, colour development of fruits and total soluble solids. Conversely, fruit firmness, titratable acidity, organoleptic score, shelf-life duration and marketability were retained on the higher side in the same treatment. The marketability of the spine gourd fruits treated with CaCland A. vera gel at 30 percent was higher (85.63%) than those treated with the lower concentration and control. Therefore, observations suggested that by applying CaCland Aloe vera gel at 30 percent, the shelf-life of spine gourd fruit can be achieved up to 20 days with notable retention of the physico-chemical quality of fruits.
Most. Shamima Khatun, Nazrul Islam and Shormin Choudhury*

Department of Horticulture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh. Corresponding e-mail: shormin2000@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.80


Key words: Bitter gourd, pretreatment, drying method, quality attributes, antioxidant activities
Abstract: A study was conducted to determine the effect of pretreatment and different drying methods on the antioxidant activities and physicochemical properties of bitter gourd powder. The treatments used were: Un-blanched: (no treatment), hot water blanching (80oC for 5 min), potassium metabisulphite treated (KMS 0.4% for 5min) with three drying methods viz., sun dry (72 h), oven dry(65oC 24h), micro oven dry (500 w for 5 min). The result revealed that the maximum phenol content (16.44, 14.38 and 12.53 mg/100g GAE) and total carotenoid content (25.55, 22.58 and 21.41 mg/100g) was in KMS-treated micro oven dried treatment at 1, 2 and 3 months after storage respectively. However, vitamin C (20.48.19.06 and 17.93mg/100 g) and DPPH scavenging activity (90.65, 84.42 and 81.14 %) was found in KMS-treated oven-dried treatment at 1, 2 and 3 months after storage, respectively. It can be concluded that KMS-treated microwave-assisted convective drying of bitter gourd reduced loss of quality attributes while retaining better color and quality characteristics.
Boussaoudi Ibtissam1*, Brahim Mahamat Ousman2, Benkaddour Rajae3, Belhadj Youssra1, Lamarti Ahmed3 and Elmtili Noureddine1

1Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 93002 Tetouan, Morocco. 2Biology, Ecology and Health Laboratory (code: UAE/U08 Faculty of Sciences, BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco), and the National Federation Associations of Healers and Practitioners of Medicine, The Ministry of Public Health of Chad, N’Djamena, Republic of Chad. 3Laboratory of Biology and Health, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 93002 Tetouan, Morocco. Corresponding e-mail: ibtissam.boussaoudi@etu.uae.ac.ma

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.81


Key words: Bay leaves, Laurus nobilis L., conservation, in vitro and in vivo culture, Morocco
Abstract: The study explored seed germination and propagation through cutting in Laurus nobilis L. with a focus on in vitro and in vivo regeneration techniques for multiplication and sustainable conservation of diversity in the species. Seed germination was achieved through pre-soaking for 7 days, followed by cold stratification at -4 °C for 50 days. The results showed that seed imbibition greatly increased germination rates (65%), however, germination in sand (14%), and peat (12%) was less successful. Imbibed seeds had a greater seedling survival rate (40%) in peat attaining better plant height. The in vitro germination of wild Moroccan L. nobilis was accomplished by scarification of kernels with sulphuric acid (34 N). Seedlings from whole fruits had the best survival rate (33.33%), followed by kernels (25%). Micropropagation of twigs using MS media with kinetin and indole-3-acetic acid proved efficient, providing useful methods for the domestication and conservation of L. nobilis .
Greeshma Baby*, M. Rafeekher, K.B. Soni, I. Priya Kumari, C.R. Reshmi, A. Sheena and M. Abdul Rahman

Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvanthapuram, Kerala-695522, India. Corresponding e-mail: greeshmavembenickal@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.82


Key words: Echinodorus grisebachii, aquascaping, aquascaping plants, micropropagation
Abstract: A study was conducted at the College of Agriculture, Vellayani, on Echinodorus grisebachii, a common aquatic plant widely used in aquascaping. The study aimed to develop an effective micropropagation protocol for E. grisebachii. Eleven treatments were applied for surface sterilization, twenty-six media combinations were tested for the establishment and shoot induction, fourteen treatments were evaluated for root initiation, and six different hardening media were trialed. An effective protocol was successfully developed through these experiments. The stem node explant was successfully sterilized using mercuric chloride 0.05%. The shoot initiation was achieved within a week using MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg L?¹ BAP, and the best rooting was achieved in ½ MS medium containing 3.0 mg L?¹ IBA. Aqua soil was the best hardening media with the highest survival rates and enhanced shoot and leaf production. The developed micropropagation protocol has the potential for large-scale production and can help satisfy export quality and quantity.
Samah Rahmani1* and Nacer Tarai1,2

1Departement of Agricultural Science, Laboratory of Ecosystems Diversity and Agricultural Production System Dynamics in Arid Zones (DEDSPAZA), Mohamed Khider University, BP 145 RP, 07000 Biskra, Algeria. 2DSCAIARA laboratory, Mohamed Khider University, BP 145 RP, 07000 Biskra, Algeria. Corresponding e-mail: samah.rahmani@univ-biskra.dz

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.83


Key words: Capsicum annum, Ruta graveolens L., Myzus persicae (Sulzer), aqueous extract, biopesticide.
Abstract: Capsicum annum, one of the most important subsistence greenhouse vegetable crops in the Biskra region, has been destroyed by the more damaging pest M. persicae. Biological control using aqueous extracts of medicinal plants could be a viable alternative for decreasing the use of chemical products. The current study aims to assess the larvicidal activity of the aerial component of Ruta graveolens L. on green peach aphid larvae M. persicae via contact. Three concentrations with four replications were applied to M. persicae larvae, and corrected mortality was measured after 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours. The results showed that an aqueous extract of R. graveolens was effective on M. persicae sulzer at 5, 10 and 20% concentrations with a 97% mortality rate after 72 hours with the 20% dose. The value of the current work is that an aqueous extract of R. graveolens was poisonous to the green peach aphid; these findings can help to produce biopesticide.
Kiran Patnaik*, SN Dash1, PC Pradhan2, Pratichee Mohapatra1 and Pradyot Nayak1

1Department of Fruit Science and Horticulture Technology, O.U.A.T., Bhubaneswar, 751003. 2Precision Farming Development Centre, O.U.A.T., Bhubaneswar. Corresponding e-mail: kiranpatnaik71@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.84


Key words: Pineapple, fertigation, black polythene mulch, yield-attributing parameters
Abstract: The present study evaluated the effect of different levels of fertigation with and without black polythene mulch on the yield and physico-chemical characteristics of the pineapple variety “Simhachalam”. The study was conducted on plant and ratoon crops at Precision Farming Development Centre, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, India. The experiment followed a randomized block design with seven treatments replicated three times. Treatments included 100, 80 and 60 % of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) applied through fertigation with and without black polythene mulch and a control (100 % RDF applied conventionally without mulch). In the planted crop, fertigation at 100 % RDF with black polythene mulch produced the highest fruit weight without crown (1028.2 g), fruit length (18.4 cm), fruit circumference (37.5 cm), pulp weight (810.2 g), and yield (55.9 t/ha). Additionally, the 80% RDF with mulch treatment achieved the highest T.S.S (15.2 °Brix), T.S.S: titratable acidity ratio (40.1), reducing sugar (4.5%), and total sugar (12.3%). The highest benefit-cost ratio (2.17) was also recorded with 100% RDF and mulch. Similar trends were observed in the ratoon crop. Fertigation at 100% RDF with mulch resulted in the highest fruit weight without crown (932.7 g), fruit length (17.7 cm), fruit circumference (35.3 cm), pulp weight (732.8 g), and yield (46.8 t/ha). The 80% RDF with mulch treatment maintained the highest T.S.S (15.2 °Brix), T.S.S: titratable acidity ratio (33.8), reducing sugar (4.6%), and total sugar (12.1%). The benefit-cost ratio was highest (2.86) for 100% RDF with mulch. Treatments without mulch generally showed lower yields and poorer quality parameters than mulched treatments. The control treatment (conventional method without mulch) also demonstrated significantly lower performance across most parameters. These findings suggest that adopting fertigation with black polythene mulch, even at reduced fertilizer levels (80% RDF), significantly improves yield and quality parameters in pineapple cultivation, making it a cost-effective and productive approach.
Sameena1*, V. Bharathi2, B. Vidya Sagar1 and K. Sankari Meena3,

1Department of Plant Pathology, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana -500030, 2Department of Plant Pathology, Seed Research and Technology Centre, Hyderabad, Telangana-500030, 3Department of Nematology, ICAR- Indian Institute of Oilseeds Research, Hyderabad, Telangana-500030. Corresponding e-mail: sameenask30@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.85


Key words: Disease complex, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, Meloidogyne incognita, tomato, Solanum lycopersici.
Abstract: The present study focused on identifying the native virulent Fusarium sp. associated with tomato (Solanum lycopersicon Mill) cv. ArkaVikas and to investigate its synergistic interaction with root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) in inducing wilt complex in tomato under pot culture conditions. The virulent isolate was identified as F. oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici through molecular characterization. TF-4 isolate was the most virulent strain among five tested isolates, exhibiting highest wilt incidence (85%) in tomato plants. Sequential inoculation of M. incognita followed by F. oxysporum exacerbated plant damage, with maximum wilt incidence recorded at 72.50%. It’s imperative to study the role of nematodes as a predisposing factor in increasing Fusarium wilt severity in tomato.
Ngwang Mercy Veyeh1, Tofel Haman Katamssadan2,3 and Tonjock Rosemary Kinge1*

1Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Science, the University of Bamenda, P.O. Box 39, Bambili, Northwest Region, Cameroon. 2Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, the University of Bamenda, P.O. Box 39, Bambili, Northwest Region, Cameroon. 3Higher Institute of Agriculture, Wood, Water Resources and Environment (ISABEE), the University of Bertoua, P.O. Box 60 Belabo, East Region Cameroon. Corresponding e-mail: rosemary32us@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.86


Key words: Biodiversity, conservation, pure culture, spawn, wild mushrooms
Abstract: This study aimed to conserve the rich biodiversity of wild mushrooms in Abongfen Forest by domesticating selected species for year-round availability and protection from extinction. Six mushrooms collected (Laetiporus sulphureus, Phellinus sp, Inonotus obliquus, Pleurotus sajor-caju, Stereum sp. and Pleurotus ostreatus) were cultured in Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) to obtain pure cultures and mother spawn which was subsequently domesticated. Each mushroom species was cultivated in a completely randomized design with four treatments: sawdust (50%) mixed with maize cobs (50%), palm cones (100%), sawdust (100%) and beans straw (100%), all supplemented with rice brand (10%) and quick lime in eight replicates. Maize cobs were ground in an electric mill while palm cones and bean straws were reduced with a sharp knife to smaller sizes (1-3cm long) and soaked overnight in tap water. Excess water was drained using a sieve to 65% moisture content. Each portion was well mixed on a clean, cemented floor using a clean spade. 2.0 kg of each composition was filled into 25 x 15 cm polypropylene bags and sterilized in a drum for 4 hours. After cooling, each bag was inoculated with three table spoonsful of spawn, incubated at room temperature 25±2 oC and the spawn run was observed until fully colonized. The days of colonization, primordial initiation and harvesting were noted. The fruit bodies on each bag were counted and weighed (g) after harvesting to determine the yield. Pleurotus sajor-caju, Pleurotus ostreatus and Laetiporus sulphureus colonized the substrate, but only Pleurotus grew and produced fruit bodies. Mycelial colonization was higher on beans straw (31.60 ± 2.46 days). The mean diameter of pileus (24.70±0.94 cm) and, average number of fruiting bodies (4.5±1.2) and weight of fruit bodies (95.20 ± 2.58 g) were best on maize cobs mixed with sawdust. Wild edible mushrooms need to be domesticated to ensure their availability for food and medicine and to provide a source of income.
Rajeshvaridevi R. Jasani1*, S.J. Patil2, M.A. Patel3 and B.M. Tandel1

1Department of Fruit Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture, NAU, Navsari, Gujarat, India. 2N.M.C.A, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India. 3Department of Floriculture, ASPEE College of Horticulture, NAU, Navsari, Gujarat, India. Corresponding e-mail: rajeshvarijasani@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.87


Key words: Khirni, Bijamrut, cow dung slurry, cow urine, Amritpani and seed priming
Abstract: The study was conducted at the Regional Horticultural Research Station of ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, India to see the impact of organic seed priming on germination and viability of Khirni (Manilkara hexandra) seeds. The experiment following a Completely Randomized Design was implemented with four replications, featuring five diverse treatments: 3% solution of cow dung solution, 3% concentration cow urine solution, 3% Bijamrut, 3% Amritpani and water (control). The seeds treated with 3% Bijamrut for 72 hours had the highest germination and survival rates and were quickest to germinate. In addition, the best results were obtained for key growth metrics such as leaf area ratio, leaf area index, crop growth rate, emergence rate index and Bartlett’s rate index. The results show that Bijamrut is effective for both early growth and general vigour of Khirni seedlings and should therefore be considered to improve the establishment of Khirni seedlings.

View All
Google Scholar



Journal of Applied Horticulture