International Journal of Plant & Soil Science
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Molecular Characterization of Mulberry Germplasm through ISSR Markers
No full textInter simple sequence repeat (ISSR)-PCR is a technique, which involves the use of microsatellite sequence as primers in a polymerase chain reaction to generate multilocus markers. Twenty-four mulberry accessions were obtained from the Central Sericulture Germplasm Resource Center, Hosur, Tamil Nadu were screened using Inter simple sequence repeat technique, with eight primers. Out of eight primers, only three primers viz., UBC 807, UBC 809 and UBC 811 produced 100 per cent polymorphism in mulberry accessions. The highest Polymorphism information content value was observed with the primer UBC 807 and the lowest PIC value was observed with the primer UBC 811. The mulberry accessions A18 (MI-0685) and A8 (MI-0535) were found to be the closest at the similarity coefficient of 0.93. Mean genetic diversity and PIC were 0.35 to 0.29, respectively. The genetic similarity coefficient ranged from 0.913 A18 (MI-0685) to 0.535 A8 (MI-0535). The phylogenetic tree was obtained using the UPGMA method using the total number of amplified Inter simple sequence repeat fragments. The result from the cluster analysis indicated that the mulberry accessions MI-0017, MI-0763, MI-0663, MI-0652, MI-0349, V-1 (check variety), MI-0034 and MI-0768 were distinct from other accessions
Evaluation of Soil Physicochemical Parameters across Selected Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) Cultivars
No full textLitchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a member of the Sapindaceae family and is occasionally referred to as the “Queen of Fruits.” The exceptional flavor, scent, white aril, and eye-catching scarlet skin of litchi fruits make them incredibly popular. Its production is influenced by a variety of soil and climatic conditions, although scientific data on soil quality across different litchi cultivars is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical parameters of rhizosphere soils from nine litchi cultivars: ‘Shahi’, ‘Rose Scented’, ‘Dehradun’, ‘Dehra Rose’, ‘Ajhauli’, ‘China’, ‘Mandraji’, ‘Purbi’, and ‘Bombai’, which were collected from the ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar. At a depth of 0–20 cm, soil samples were taken, and their moisture content, water-holding capacity, pH, and electrical conductivity were measured. Litchi cultivars, especially Ajhauli (20.58%) and Dehradun (70%), had generally higher soil moisture content and water-holding capacity, while Rose Scented (8.9) and Purbi (0.59 dS/m) showed maximum pH and electrical conductivity. These specific cultivars highlight their significance in improving soil quality and promoting fruit development. These findings highlight the ecological benefits of litchi-based systems for sustaining soil health
Soil Tailored Fertilizers Boost Rice Yield & Profit in NICRA Village Farmers in Tamil Nadu, India
No full textKnowledge on soil fertility is crucial for managing the nutrients in a particular soil. Deterioration of soil fertility may be due to imbalanced fertilizer application without soil testing and continuous high-yield cropping. Under the National Innovation and Climate Change for Agriculture (NICRA) project, this study was conducted to assess the village\u27s soil fertility status and suggest the ideal fertilizer dosage. A total of 50 soil samples were collected and analyzed for different soil parameters in the Naduvananthal village of Mailam block, Villupuram district. The soil pH, available potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen, organic carbon, and electrical conductivity (EC) were analyzed. The Electrical Conductivity shows a neutral to alkaline response in the soils. The soil had low to moderate levels of organic carbon and low to moderate levels of available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The recommendations for rice nutrients were determined by taking into account the various soil properties that were observed. Given that soil fertility is low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus, and high in available potassium, this ensures that rice will absorb nutrients in a balanced manner. The recommendation for the rice crop according to the farmer\u27s practice was 130:58:75 kg NPK hectare-1 the recommendation for fertilizer based on soil testing was 150:50:50kg NPK hectare-1. This results in a reduction of up to Rs. 890 ha-1 in cultivation costs, while also maintaining balanced nutrition and increasing rice productivity with additional returns of 530 kg ha-1
Effects of Copper Sulphate on Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Cicer arietinum
No full textThe present research uses scientific methods to investigate the role of copper sulphate in the growth and germination of chickpea (Cicer arietinum) plants. The present research shows that certain concentrations of copper sulphate act as a nutrient while certain concentrations act as a poison for the plant. In the present experiment, it has also been found that all concentrations of copper sulphate have effects on the germination and growth of chickpea seeds, but its effect is observed only to a certain extent after seed germination. The present research has found that a concentration of 50 µM copper sulphate is ideal for early chickpea seedlings or seed germination. The concentration of 50 µM copper sulphate makes an unprecedented contribution to the growth and elongation of both roots and shoots. This research has shown that copper sulphate at a concentration of 50 µM has a positive effect on germination and plant growth, which plays a role as an important cofactor to produce enzymes required for important metabolic processes such as photosynthesis and lignin formation in cell walls in plants. Conversely, the present study provided clear evidence of copper\u27s dose-dependent toxicity. Concentrations exceeding this optimal level specifically at 100, 200, and 500 µM which led to a progressive and significant reduction in both shoot and root lengths. This severe growth inhibition is a direct result of copper\u27s ability to generate reactive oxygen species, which induces oxidative stress, damages cellular components, and interferes with nutrient uptake, particularly in the sensitive root tissues. These findings underscore the critical importance of a precise balance in copper fertilization for sustainable agriculture, aiming to maximize chickpea (Cicer arietinum) yield while avoiding the detrimental effects of heavy metal toxicity
Response of Rice Beans (Vigna umbellata) to Different Phosphate Fertilizer Rates, Sources and Cropping Systems Established in Western Kenya
No full textRice bean despite being an underutilized crop is a multipurpose legume crop with a potential of improving food security in western Kenya. Acidic soils with low phosphate and organic carbon levels limit its production. We investigated effects of four phosphate fertilizer levels and cropping systems on soils, agronomy and yield components of rice beans in Kaimosi Friends University College (KAFUCO), Rongo University and Siaya Agricultural Training Centre (ATC) farms in Vihiga, Migori, and Siaya Counties in western Kenya in the short rains of 2020 and long rains of 2021. The experiment consisted of twelve treatments replicated three times per site in a split-plot in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The main plots comprised of three cropping systems (monocrop, conventional and MBILI (Managing Beneficial Interactions in Legume Intercrops)) while the subplots were made up of four phosphate fertilizer levels (without fertilizer (control), inorganic fertilizer (26P+22N kg ha-1), pure organic (5P+22N kg ha-1) and combined organic and inorganic fertilizers at half rates (15.5P+22N kg ha-1). Soil analysis demonstrated that the soils had low P and % organic carbon in all the sites. There were no significant differences in Olsen P at p = .05 in all the sites. In Kaimosi, the average number of pods produced per plant was highest in the mono cropping systems (90) for treatments with mixed organic and inorganic phosphate fertilizers. Treatments with required phosphate fertilizers had the least number of days to flowering (about 75). However, days to 75% flowering in both seasons showed no significant differences in Kaimosi University and Siaya ATC farms with significant differences exhibited in Rongo University farm between the cropping systems at p= .05. The highest average rice beans yields were recorded in Rongo university farm (1.8 ton ha-1) for the treatments with mixed organic and inorganic fertilizers in the mono cropping systems. The phosphorus agronomic efficiency was highest in treatments with pure organic matter. The partial factor productivity of phosphorus was highest in the mono cropping systems. There were significant differences in harvest indices, partial factor productivity and phosphorus agronomic efficiency in all the three sites 1.8 ton ha-1. The study therefore has recommended that phosphate fertilizers are important in the rice beans production for improved yields to be realized
Assessing the Effect of Sowing Methods and Nutrient Management on Growth and Development of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
No full textIntegrated nutrient management (INM) combines multiple organic sources to ensure a balanced supply of essential nutrients, improving plant growth and resilience. Understanding the interaction between sowing methods and nutrient management in organic wheat farming is essential for optimizing crop productivity and environmental sustainability. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of different sowing methods and nutrient management strategies on the growth and development of wheat under organic farming conditions. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24. The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design with three replications and horizontal strip four sowing methods treatments viz. S1: Line sowing, S2: Criss cross sowing, S3: Line sowing with 150 % seed rate and S4: Criss cross sowing with 150% seed rate and vertical strip six organic nutrient management viz. N1: 100% RDN, N2: 75% RDN + Azotobactor + PSB, N3: 100% RDN + Azotobactor + PSB, N4: 75% RDN + Azotobactor + 4 foliar spray of 10 % Cow urine at 20 days interval, N5: 100% RDN + Azotobactor + PSB + 4 foliar spray of 10 % Cow urine at 20 days interval and N6: 125% RDN. Results indicated that CGR, RGR, and LAI increased from the early vegetative phase to the reproductive stage, then declined towards maturity due to leaf senescence and remobilization of assimilates. Among sowing methods, criss-cross sowing with 150% seed rate (S4) consistently produced the highest CGR, RGR, and LAI, highlighting the benefits of better plant distribution and canopy structure. Nutrient management significantly influenced LAI and LPR, with the highest values recorded under 125% RDN (N6) and 100% RDN integrated with biofertilizers and cow urine foliar sprays (N5). The lowest growth values were found under the lowest nitrogen level with biofertilizers (N2). The interaction effect between sowing methods and nutrient management was non-significant for all parameters, indicating independent effects. Among nutrient management treatments, applying 125% of the recommended dose of nitrogen produced superior results across most growth parameters, highlighting the importance of adequate nitrogen availability for optimum growth and canopy development. The integrated use of biofertilizers and organic foliar sprays also showed promise, often yielding values comparable to the higher nitrogen level
Microgreens: Cultivation, Nutrition, Journey to Space and Market Trends
No full textMicrogreens have gained immense popularity in recent years due to their high nutritional value, diverse flavours and adaptability to small-scale and urban farming. These tender greens, larger than sprouts but smaller than baby vegetables or greens, are packed with densely concentrated nutrients and health-promoting compounds. The aim of the paper is to cultivate, nutrition, journey to space and market trends of microgreens. They are favoured by high-end chefs and health-conscious consumers as garnishing elements in salads, soups, and sandwiches. Vegans also appreciate microgreens for their nutrient-enriched dietary value. Cultivating microgreens is feasible in small spaces, making them a viable option for urban farming. Various substrates, such as soilless, aeroponics, hydroponics, and aquaponics, are being explored for their cultivation. Microgreens are not only rich in ascorbic acid, vitamins, and micro and macro elements, but they also show promise for space exploration. Their unique properties and compact growth make them an alternative food source for astronauts. Additionally, the market for microgreens is booming, with India and North America showing promising growth. The global microgreens market is projected to reach a value of USD 2.6 billion by 2031, fueled by the increasing demand and versatile cultivation methods. With their exceptional nutritional profile and versatile cultivation options, microgreens are an attractive option for both consumers and growers, offering a bright future ahead. This review has provided a comprehensive overview of microgreens, from their historical significance to their cultivation methods, nutritional values, and potential applications in space exploration
Floristic Characteristics, Diversity and Population Structure of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del (Zygophyllaceae) in the Ouadi Rimé-Ouadi Achim Wildlife Reserve in Chad
No full textIn Chad, the Balanites aegyptiaca is a highly useful species preserved by producers in agroforestry parks, whose sustainability is under threat. The aim of this study is to assess the ecological health of Balanites aegyptiaca and associated woody vegetation in the Ouadi Rimé-Ouadi Ochim Wildlife Reserve in Chad. Data were collected using floristic surveys based on dendrometric measurements of woody species in 110 plots of 900 m2 each. Dendrometric measurements show a low density of individuals across both sites with almost zero species richness. The structure of the stands in both sites reflects a degraded stand with low regeneration potential. In the park reserve, the structure is characterised by a juvenile population, while the grazing area has low regeneration potential. In the early stages, regeneration is significant but quickly disappears under the combined effect of several mesological factors. The park reserve located in the Sahelian sector is the priority site in terms of repopulation of B. aegyptiaca. These findings suggest the urgent need to develop appropriate strategies for the sustainable management of the species in Chad
A Review Approach for Soil Carbon Sequestration through Agroforestry Systems
No full textCarbon sequestration in soils has become an important approach to offsetting climate change, improving soil fertility, and supporting sustainable agriculture systems. Agroforestry, a combined land-use system integrating trees, crops, and/or animals, has been significantly effective in increasing the stocks of soil organic carbon (SOC) attributed to its long-lived vegetation cover, extensive root systems, and ongoing litter inputs. In contrast to traditional monocropping systems, agroforestry offers long-term ecological services through soil stabilisation, erosion prevention, and nutrient cycling. This review integrates current knowledge on the mechanisms, potential, and limitations of soil carbon sequestration using agroforestry systems. The discussion highlights the ways in which agroforestry enhances soil health, ecosystem resilience, and biodiversity, as well as helps mitigate climate change by enhancing carbon sinks. In addition, the review emphasises agroforestry\u27s economic and social co-benefits to smallholder farmers, including better livelihoods, diversified income streams, and increased food security. The paper also emphasises the need for facilitative policy frameworks, financial incentives, and strong monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) mechanisms for scaling up agroforestry adoption. Lastly, research needs and future agendas are considered, among them long-term field experiments, carbon modelling strategies, and agroforestry inclusion in national climate action plans
Correlation and Principal Component Analysis of Yield-related Traits in Castor (Ricinus communis L.) Genotypes
No full textCastor (Ricinus communis L.) is a vital crop had wide range of industrial applications. It is widely used in the production of biodiesel, soaps, inks, varnishes, linoleum, and plasticizers. Understanding genetic diversity is essential for effective breeding strategies. In this study, 40 castor genotypes were evaluated using correlation, principal component analysis (PCA). Correlation analysis revealed that characters with plant height upto primary spike, effective primary spike length, number of capsules on primary spike and 100 seed weight displayed significant and positive correlation of total seed yield. PCA identified five components (with Eigenvalues >1), explaining 85.85% of the total variation. PC-I showed strong positive loadings for number of capsules to primary spike, effective primary spike length, 100 seed weight, total seed weight and number of effective spikes per plant. Considering the mean values of canonical vectors, genotypes ACI-01, ACI-26, and ACI-28 emerged as promising genotypes for use in breeding programmes