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K. Chaitra1, Mini Sankar1*, U. Sreelatha1, T.V. Anupama2 and P. Prameela3

1Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, 2Department of Post Harvest Technology, 3Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural University, Vellanikkara, Thrissur-680656, Kerala, India. Corresponding e-mail: drminisankar@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.59


Key words: Philodendron xanadu, soilless growing media, cocopeat, coco chips, vermicompost, perlite, vermiculite and neem cake
Abstract: The study on optimizing soilless growing media for compact growth of Philodendron xanadu was conducted at the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, India. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with five different growing media, viz., M1: cocopeat (50%) + vermicompost (30%) + perlite (10%) + vermiculite (10%), M2: cocopeat (50%) + vermicompost (20%) + neem cake (10%) + perlite (10%) +vermiculite (10%), M3: coco chips (50%) + vermicompost (30%) + perlite (10%) + vermiculite (10%), M4: coco chips (50%) + vermicompost (20%) + neem cake (10%) + perlite (10%) + vermiculite (10%) and M5: cocopeat (60%) + vermicompost (20%) + perlite (20%). The study revealed that plants grown in media M2 and M4 showed significant variations and superior performance in vegetative and root parameters. These media also exhibited the highest chlorophyll content and favorable physical and chemical properties, enhancing nutrient uptake and plant growth cost-effectively. The inclusion of cocopeat in M2 and coco chips in M4, along with organic amendments such as vermicompost, perlite, and vermiculite, provided excellent water retention, aeration, and nutrient content, promoting root and vegetative growth. Additionally, the neem cake amendment contributed to the superior performance of plants in these media. Conclusively, these growing media M2 and M4 are recommended for achieving the compact growth of Philodendron xanadu, emphasizing the potential of optimized soilless growing media for sustainable and efficient Ornamental Horticulture.
S. Rajendiran*, H.B. Raghupathi, S. Ramachandran, B.R. Raghu and R. Venugopalan

ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hesaraghatta Lake Post, Bengaluru - 560 089, Karnataka, India. Corresponding e-mail: Rajendiran.S@icar.gov.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.60


Key words: Zinc fertilization, residual effect, zinc availability, crop yield, vegetables
Abstract: Crops' response to zinc application may vary under different management systems. The objective of the current investigation was to study the effect of different levels of Zn fertilization on direct and residual availability of zinc in soil, crop yield and uptake of zinc in the chilli-finger millet-amaranthus system on an Alfisol. Field experiments were conducted during 2019-2020 in low zinc soil (0.88 mg kg-1) and treatments were as a one-time application of 5, 10, 15 and 20 kg Zn ha-1 through ZnSO4.7H2O as basal dose only for chilli; foliar application of 0.5% ZnSO4.7H2O (two times for each crop) and control (no Zn fertilization). Extractable Zn content of soil improved from 0.88 to 2.10 mg kg-1 by basal application of Zn. It also enhanced Zn concentration in crop produce resulting in higher Zn uptake. The direct effect of Zn fertilization significantly improved chilli yield in all the treatments over the control, however, the significant residual effect of yield enhancement in finger millet and amaranthus was recorded by basal application of Zn from 10 kg ha-1 onwards. By increasing the Zn doses from 10 kg to 20 kg per ha, no further significant improvement in yield was noticed with corresponding soil DTPA-Zn of more than 1.5 mg kg-1. From the results, it is obvious that onetime zinc fertilization of 10 kg ha-1 y-1 through soil could be the best option to correct Zn deficiency and improve the productivity of vegetable-based systems. If DTPA-Zn content of soil reaches 1.5 mg kg-1 and above, subsequent Zn application can be avoided.
Azza M.S. Arafa1, M.A. Darwish1, S.A.M. Khenizy2 and Ghada D. Ahmed2

1Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University. 2Ornamental Plants and Landscape Gardening Research, Horticultural Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: ghada.diab_2007@yahoo.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.61


Key words: Zantedeschia aethiopica, eucalyptus oil, cut flowers, humic acid, 8-HQC, citric acid,GA3,vase life, water uptake.
Abstract: The calla lily cut flower (Zantedeschia aethiopica cv. ‘Romance’), with a white spathe, is a significant ornamental flower. There is a growing interest in developing cost-effective and eco-friendly preservative solutions to extend vase life. The Ornamental Plants and Landscape Gardening Research Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Giza, Egypt, conducted this study in the postharvest laboratory during the 2020 and 2021 to examine the effects of various holding solutions, both individually and in combination, including distilled water (DW) as a control, eucalyptus oil (EO) at concentrations of 1 and 2 mL/L, humic acid (HA) at 25 and 50 mL/L, sucrose (Suc) at 20 g/L, 8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (HQ) at 0.2 g/L, citric acid (CA) at 0.2 g/L, and gibberellic acid (GA3) at 0.05 g/L. The results showed that all holding solutions significantly improved the measured characteristics compared to distilled water. It’s worth mentioning that putting cut flowers in a solution with humic acid at 25 mL/L, either alone or with sucrose at 20 g/L and citric acid at 0.2 g/L, made the flowers last longer, look better, and have higher flower fresh weight (IFFW%), relative fresh weight (RFW%), water uptake rate (mL), and total carbohydrate content (%). During both seasons, humic acid (50 or 25 mL/L) as a single treatment yielded the highest phenol content followed by eucalyptus oil (2 mL/L).
U. Sawant Dessai* and A.V. Joseph

Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj - 211007, Uttar Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: utkarshdessai11@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.62


Key words: Breadfruit, green leafy vegetables, organoleptic properties, papad, physico-chemical properties
Abstract: Breadfruit, a nutrient dense, large starchy fruit rich in complex carbohydrates, but low in fat and cholesterol, can be used creatively in papad making, a traditional, thin, crispy wafer like food item which enhances meals and snacks, as well as used with nutrient rich green leafy vegetables to provide a wholesome, balanced dietary option. The experiment aimed to develop value-added breadfruit papad incorporated with spinach, coriander, mint, curry (Bergera koenigii), fenugreek, drumstick and dill green leaves. The objective was to assess the physico-chemical and organoleptic properties of the breadfruit papad. The experiment was conducted in Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with eight treatments and three replications. Based on the results of the experiment, it was observed that treatment T6 (breadfruit + drumstick leaves) was found best in terms of physico-chemical properties, viz., moisture, ash, fat, protein, carbohydrate and energy. Based on sensory evaluation, treatment T3 (breadfruit + mint leaves) was found most acceptable in terms of organoleptic properties, viz., colour, taste, flavour, texture and overall acceptability. The present study demonstrated the successful incorporation of green leafy vegetables into breadfruit papad, offering a promising avenue to enhance the utilization and popularity of both breadfruit and green leafy vegetables.
D. Lava Kumar1*, B.S. Kulkarni2, P. Pavan Kumar3, B.R. Chittapur4 and K. Madhavi1

1Division of Floriculture and Landscaping, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110012. 2Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, UHS-Bagalkot, Karnataka, India-587104. 3Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, College of Horticulture, Bangalore, UHS-Bagalkot, Karnataka, India-560065. 4Department of Crop Improvement and Biotechnology, College of Horticulture, Bagalkot, UHS-Bagalkot, Karnataka, India-587104. Corresponding e-mail: lavaflori@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.63


Key words: Gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa L.), correlation, path analysis
Abstract: A study was conducted using 17 Gomphrena genotypes to investigate the relationship of yield traits and their direct and indirect impacts on flower production. Correlation studies revealed that at genotypic level, flower yield per plant recorded significant and positive connotations with number of flowers per plant (0.990) which was accompanied by traits like primary branches per plant (0.848), stem girth (0.835), plant height (0.829), secondary branches (0.812), shelf life (0.742), flowering duration (0.722), inflorescence length (0.718), plant spread in N-S direction (0.685), first flowering (days) (0.671), plant spread in E-W direction (0.667), individual flower weight (0.648), stalk length (0.606) and other traits. Path analysis disclosed that the number of flowers per plant (1.140) had the highest and positive direct impact on flower yield per single plant, followed by the days to first flowering (0.346), individual flower weight (0.217), plant height (0.189), primary branches per plant (0.168), days to 50 percent flowering (0.137), secondary branches (0.127), plant spread (0.006) and inflorescence length (0.002). These traits, especially the number of flowers per plant and primary branches plant, can be chosen as a key indicator for selection criteria along with other traits in Gomphrena breeding programme.
Mehul Chudasama*, Asifa Khan and Jyotirmoy Goyary

Department of Food Technology, Parul Institue of Technology, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat – 391760 Corresponding e-mail: mehul.chudasama29347@paruluniversity.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.64


Key words: Bhagwa variety, wine, winemaking process, fermentation duration, S. cerevisiae, anthocyanin, antioxidant capacity
Abstract: This research presented the development and evaluation of a Bhagwa variety pomegranate (Punica granatum) wine. The study monitored quality parameters and phytochemical composition throughout the winemaking process. The choice of cultivar and winemaking procedures, especially fermentation duration, significantly influenced the final wine quality and composition. The study found that S. cerevisiae can be effectively used for pomegranate wine development. Glucose and fructose levels decreased from 4.39 and 5.04 to 0.04 and 0.22100mL-1, respectively, which resulted in successful fermentation. Anthocyanin content decreased from 110 to 70 100mL-1. Gallic acid peaked at 28.65 before dropping to 18.47100mL-1. The antioxidant capacity slightly decreased from 18 to 14 mM Trolox. The research suggests future studies should aim to preserve and enhance these properties during fermentation.
K. Rajesh*, M. Abdul Kalam, M. Leelavathi, G. Sony, M. Sai Srinivas, M. Kirthy Reddy

College of Food Science and Technology, Pulivendula, Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University, Andhra Pradesh. Corresponding e-mail: k.rajesh@angrau.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.65


Key words: Ash gourd (Benincasahispida), juice, powder, freeze drying, moisture content, carrier agent
Abstract: This study was undertaken to develop ash gourd juice powder (AGP) with the assistance of different carrier agents viz., Maltodextrin (MD), Gum Arabic (GA), Soy Protein Isolate (SPI) in different proportions by freeze-drying. The carrier agents were added in 1:10, 3:20 and 1:5 (w/v) to study their effect on the physicochemical properties like moisture content, color and techno-functional properties like powder recovery, bulk density, tapped density, Hausner ratio, Carr index, swelling capacity, water and oil holding capacity, water solubility index and hygroscopicity. GA as carrier agent had reported the highest yield (16.04%) followed by samples with SPI and MD as carrier agents. AGP produced with maltodextrin (1:5) showed more lightness (L*) than MD (1:10) and MD (3:20) whereas, GA based sample at 1:5 showed more lightness (L*) than SPI (1:5). AGP samples with SPI as carrier agent showed higher moisture content (MC), bulk density (BD) and tapped density (TD) compared to GA and MD added samples. Also, the moisture content, bulk density and tapped density of dried powders decreased with an increase in carrier agents proportion. Dried AGP obtained from MD as carrier agent showed more oil holding capacity and the sample with a carrier agent showed better water holding capacity. Higher swelling capacity was observed in samples with MD (1:5) as a carrier agent than (1:10) and (3:20). Powder with MD as a carrier agent showed higher water solubility index (WSI%) with a trend of increase in carrier agent proportion. However, hygroscopicity (HY%) was higher in samples with MD compared to samples with SPI and GA. Also, the HY% decreased with an increase in carrier agent proportions. The wettability of AGP decreased with an increase in carrier agent proportion. Powder obtained through GA as a carrier agent took more time than other carrier agents like SPI and MD. Overall, the study indicated that ash gourd can be dried by using freeze dryer to protect techno-functional and physicochemical properties. Further, the nutritive composition of the samples needs to be assessed to evaluate the change in composition after freeze drying.
Dž. Fazli?1, A. Udovi?i?2, M. Valjevac2, M. He?o2, L. Kari?2, ?. Zahirovi? Sinanovi?2 and S. Murti?3*

1Department of Food Technology, University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Sarajevo - 71 000, Bosnia and Herzegovina. 2Department of Vegetable Crops, University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Sarajevo - 71 000, Bosnia and Herzegovina. 3Department of Plant Physiology, University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Sarajevo - 71 000, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Corresponding e-mail: murticsenad@hotmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.66


Key words: Hericiuma erinaceus, Ganoderma lucidum, Pleurotus djamor, Pleurotus ostreatus, nutrients, substrate, translocation
Abstract: The present study reports a comparison of the mineral composition of four selected cultivated mushrooms: lion’s mane (Hericiuma erinaceus), reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), pink oyster mushroom (Pleurotus djamor) and oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus). The levels of studied mineral elements (K, Ca, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Ni, Cr, Cd and Pb) in the substrate and mushroom samples were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy using the Shimadzu AA-7000 device. The most abundant mineral elements in the analyzed mushrooms were K and Ca, ranging between 23703.2–36721.8 mg kg-1 and 105.3–123.1 mg kg-1 dry mass, respectively. The content of heavy metals (Ni, Cr and Cd) was very low, while Pb and Co were below detectable levels. The study findings suggest that the translocation of mineral elements from substrate to mushroom fruiting bodies is strongly species-dependent.
K. Lamo1*, A.K. Sangwan2, N.P. Singh1 and M.K. Batth1

1Department Fruit Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, India, 141004. 2Dr J.C. Bakhshi Regional Research Station, Punjab Agricultural University, Abohar 152116, India. Corresponding e-mail: kunzanglamospadumpa@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.67


Key words: F1 hybrids, zygotic, nucellar, sweet orange, mandarins, inter-specific cross, leaf characters
Abstract: An investigation was carried out to examine the morphological features of molecularly confirmed putative hybrids derived from different cross combinations of sweet orange and mandarin varieties. The results revealed that phenotypic leaf characters of F1 zygotic hybrid seedlings in all the crosses had a simple type of leaf division. The shape of leaves in all the hybrids was either elliptic or lanceolate, without any clear-cut differentiation. Results indicated a significant variation in leaf lamina shape in hybrids, elliptical and lanceolate form was observed in Mosambi ×Mukaku Kishu and Jaffa × Mukaku Kishu, elliptical and obovate leaf lamina type was observed in Mosambi × W. Murcott and Jaffa × W. Murcott cross. Leaf lamina shape in hybrids of Mosambi × Clementine and Jaffa × Clementine was lanceolate and elliptical type. Leaf apex shape that dominates in Mosambi ×W. Murcott hybrids were acute and obtuse types. In Mosambi × Clementine hybrids, acuminate and acute forms were more dominant. Leaf apex that dominates in hybrids of Jaffa × Mukaku Kishu cross was acute and acuminate type. Hybrids derived from Jaffa × W. Murcott cross had acute and obtuse leaf apex. While in Jaffa × Clementine cross, hybrids had acuminate and acute as the most dominant forms. Hybrid progenies derived from all the crosses showed variation for the presence and absence of a spine. Results indicated that spiny hybrids ranged from 0 to 20.00 % whereas spineless zygotic hybrids ranged from 80.00 to 100 % in all the crosses. These potential hybrids may be recommended for commercial citriculture after thorough horticultural evaluation. The information obtained is expected to contribute to the early identification of zygotic hybrid seedlings derived from different cross combinations involving polyembryonic parents like sweet oranges. The valuable information gained from this study may help in shortening the breeding cycle and reduce the costs of the scion breeding programme in sweet oranges.
Serra Aksoy1, Pinar Demircioglu2,3, Ismail Bogrekci3

1Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Germany. 2Technical University of Munich (TUM), Germany. 3Aydin Adnan Menderes University (ADU), Turkey. Corresponding e-mail: serra.aksoy@campus.lmu.de

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.68


Key words: MobileNetV3 Small, EfficientNetV2 Small, DenseNet121, ShuffleNetV2_x1_5, image classification, fruit and vegetable diseases
Abstract: Accurately distinguishing between fresh and rotten fruits and vegetables is essential for reducing waste, ensuring food safety, and maintaining quality standards in agriculture and supply chain management. This research utilized the fruit and vegetable diseases dataset from Kaggle, which included images of 14 types of produce in both healthy and rotten states. In this study, the performance of four pre-trained convolutional neural network models was evaluated: MobileNetV3 Small, EfficientNetV2 Small, DenseNet121, and ShuffleNetV2_x1_5. Among these, ShuffleNetV2_x1_5 demonstrated the highest performance, achieving an overall accuracy of 94.61% and a cross-validation mean accuracy of 96.43% with minimal standard deviation. The model’s efficiency and robust feature extraction capabilities make it highly suitable for real-time applications in agricultural monitoring and robotics, offering a significant advancement in the automation of produce quality assessment.
R. Neelavathi* and Shibi Sebastian

1ICAR - Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tindivanam, Villupuram district - 604 102, Tamil Nadu, India. Corresponding e-mail: neelavathi@tnau.ac.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.69


Key words: Grafted brinjal, Turkey berry, rootstock, germination, wilt, yield
Abstract: Eggplant (brinjal) is commonly affected by fungal and bacterial wilt, as well as shoot and fruit borer infestations, leading to significant yield losses. This study aimed to investigate the production of brinjal grafts using wilt-resistant rootstock, specifically Turkey berry (Solanum torvum Sw.), and to evaluate the field performance of the grafted plants. The success of grafting largely depends on the quality and compatibility of the Turkey berry rootstock. To produce Turkey berry rootstock, seeds were soaked in water for 12, 24, and 36 hours before being sown in protrays filled with cocopeat and in raised beds during May and October. The highest germination rate was observed in seeds soaked for 36 hours and sown in protrays, followed closely by those sown in raised beds. Brinjal scions, 30-35 days old, were grafted onto 55-60-day-old Turkey berry rootstocks and placed in a polytunnel under a shade net. These grafted plants were then transplanted into the field alongside non-grafted plants (seedlings) to compare their performance. Results showed that grafted brinjal plants had significantly greater plant height (142.54 cm), more branches per plant (21.17), and a higher number of fruits per plant (135.31) compared to non-grafted plants. The fruit yield was also notably higher in grafted plants, with 9.11 kg per plant and 61.65 t/ha, compared to 4.82 kg per plant and 30.45 t/ha in non-grafted plants. Grafted brinjal plants exhibited an extended growing period, higher net income, and a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.36. No instances of wilt were observed in grafted plants, and they also had lower incidences of shoot borer (15.31%) and fruit borer (11.74%) infestations compared to non-grafted plants. This grafting technique has the potential to enhance brinjal yield and productivity, promoting organic farming by reducing the need for pesticides.
Suresh Bhise1, Devesh Patel1, K.B. Kamaliya2 and V.B. Darji3

1College of Food Processing Technology and Bioenergy, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India. 2Polytechnic in Food Science and Home Economics, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India. 3B.A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India. Corresponding e-mail: sureshbhise_cft@yahoo.co.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.70


Key words: Cookies, pomegranate, fiber, seed flour, shelf-life
Abstract: High-fiber cookies were developed by incorporating pomegranate seed flour (PSF) at 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, 12.5, 15.0, 17.5 and 20.0%. Among these, cookies containing 15% PSF were identified as the best in baking quality and sensory attributes, making them suitable for further shelf-life studies. A decrease in moisture content was observed in cookies stored in polypropylene (PP) and aluminum (AL) packaging materials, making the cookies dry and eventually unacceptable. Water activity was higher in the control cookies compared to those made with PSF. Under ambient conditions, the cookies made with PSF remained acceptable for up to 75 days, while the sensory panel rejected the control cookies after 60 days. The overall acceptability of the cookies decreased during storage as they hardened due to moisture loss and changes in surface texture. Cookies with 15% PSF showed no visible microbial growth for up to 90 days of storage, but sensory properties began to decline after 75 days at 30±2°C. The fiber content in the developed cookies was measured as 5.82%.
A.S. Ould Kaddour*1, R. Kouadria1, B. Lotmani2 and M. Bouzouina2

1Department of Second Cycle, Agronomic Higher School Mostaganem, Hall of Technology-Kharrouba-Mostaganem, Algeria, 27000. 2Department of Agronomic, Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, Hocine Hamadou Street, P.O. Box 300, Mostaganem 27000 – Algeria. Corresponding e-mail: a.ouldkaddour@esa-mosta.dz

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.71


Key words: Citrus limon L, Staphylococcus aureus, phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, antibacterial capacity
Abstract: An investigation was conducted to ascertain the impact of the geographical area on the biological properties of Citrus limon L., with the aim of evaluating its potential as a natural source of antioxidants and antibacterial agents. The study involved quantifying the total phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the leaves of C. limon L. collected from two Algerian regions (Chlef and Boumerdes). In vitro antioxidant activity of extract samples were assessed by radical scavenging DPPH and radical cation scavenging ABTS assays, followed by the evaluation of antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus at different concentrations (200, 300 and 500 µg mL-1) by aromatogram analyses. The results exhibited significant variation between plant provenances, with Chlef leaf sample extract being richer in total phenolic and flavonoid contents (72.51±3.05 mg QE g-1 DM, 66.13 ± 2.25 mg GAE g -1 DM, respectively). In addition to its antioxidant properties, Chlef leaf extract also showed high antibacterial activity against S. aureus. Antioxidant tests showed the higher anti-free radical capacity with 86.62 ± 1.14 % and 95.87 ± 0.21 % inhibition rate values by DPPH and ABTS tests, correspondingly. A comparable scavenging capacity of Chlef leaf extract to that of Trolox activity was detected by DPPH test, with an IC50 equal to 665.55 ± 4.19 µg TE mL-1. Besides, this sample showed higher anti-free radical activity than the reference molecule by the ABTS. Furthermore, greater sensitivity of S. aureus to Chlef leaf extract was observed, with zones of inhibition superior to 10 mm. C. limon from Chlef (leaf) can be used as a source of natural antioxidants and antibacterial activity in different fields, especially medicinal applications and agri-foods.
M.M.M. Hussein1, Amira Sh. Soliman2, Mona A. Darwish1, H.M.A. El-Bagoury1 and Yasmeen A. Shehata1*

1Ornamental Horticulture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University, Egypt. 2Natural Resources Department, Faculty of African Postgraduate Studies, Cairo University, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: Ya.shehata92@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.72


Key words: Ficus benjamina L., foliar application, NPK, GA3, BA, vegetative growth, chemical composition
Abstract: An experiment was conducted from April 2020 to July 2021 to assess the effects of foliar applications of NPK (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 g/L) alongside two concentrations of GA? and BA (150 and 250 ppm) on the vegetative growth and chemical composition of Ficus benjamina L. under greenhouse conditions. Results indicated that applying GA? or BA with NPK at 1 g/L significantly increased plant height, with GA? showing a greater effect on stem diameter than BA. BA promoted branching, and both BA and GA? at 250 ppm enhanced root length and the fresh and dry weights of leaves, stems and roots. The lognest roots were observed with NPK at 2 g/L, while NPK at 1 g/L resulted in the heaviest fresh root weight. The maximum content of carbohydrate and nitrogen was obtained with 0.5 g/L NPK and there was relatively greater accumulation of potassium in plant treated with 1 g/L NPK The GA3 was more effective than BA in increasing nitrogen and phosphorus content in plants. BA and GA? increased chlorophyll-a and -b, with the combination of BA (150 ppm) and NPK (1 g/L) yielding the highest chlorophyll-b levels. The highest carotenoid content was achieved with NPK at 2 g/L combined with either GA? or BA. Treatment with BA at 150 ppm enhanced the chlorophyll a/b ratio, while GA? at 250 ppm more effectively increased the total chlorophyll-to-carotenoid ratio. These findings suggest that foliar application of NPK at 1 g/L, combined with either BA or GA? (250 ppm), optimizes vegetative growth and enhances the chemical composition of F. benjamina L. under greenhouse conditions, promoting both growth quality and vigor.
P.M. Hasna*, M. Rafeekher, I. Priyakumari, C.R. Reshmi, N. Leno and P.P. Gopinath

Department. of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, India. Corresponding e-mail: hasna-2021-22-002@student.kau.in

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i03.73


Key words: Tuberose, Arka Prajwal, poultry manuring, drip fertigation
Abstract: A study was carried out in March 2023-January 2024 at the experimental field of the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, India, for the standardization of manuring, irrigation and fertilizer level in tuberose hybrid, Arka Prajwal under drip irrigation and fertigation. The experimental layout was carried out in a split-split plot design with four replications of 16 treatment combinations. Main plot consisted of manures, the subplot consisted of irrigation levels and the sub-sub plot consisted of fertilizer levels. Surface irrigation and manual fertilizer application were treated as control. The synergistic effect of poultry manuring, drip irrigation, and fertigation proved outstanding regarding their individual effects and control. The treatment of poultry manure along with drip fertigation of ½ N and full K at IW/CPE 0.8, recorded the highest plant height (65.62 cm) with a greater number of leaves (18.81) at the spike initiation stage. The same treatment noticed the longest spike (104.70 cm) along with greater number of florets spike-1 (47.55). However, greatest yield (89.67 g) was observed in the poultry manure treatment along with drip irrigation at IW/CPE 1 and 100% recommended dose of N and K through fertigation followed by poultry manure along with fertigation of ½ N full P and full K of recommended dose at IW/CPE 0.8. Considering overall performance, the application of poultry manure along with fertigation of ½ N and total K of recommended dose at deficit irrigation proved to be highly beneficial for growth and yield improvement in tuberose hybrid Arka Prajwal.

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