Volume 6, Number 1 (April 2005)

1. R. K. MAITI*, P. VIDYASAGAR**, SAMBHULING C. SHAHAPUR AND V. P. SINGH1 [Research trends on seed development, dormancy, germination, emergence and seedling vigour of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)_A review]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 1-13 (2005). Vibha Agrotech Ltd., 501 Sirisampada, Rajbhavan Road, Samajiguda, Hyderabad-500 082 (A. P.), India (*E-mail : maitirk@yahoo.com; ** pvsagar@sify.com).

ABSTRACT

Sunflower is an important edible oil. Several factors affect development of sunflower seed, and its emergence and seedling establishment in the field. Methods of pollination and types of honeybees influence seed production. Several biochemical processes occur during seed development in mitochondria and various enzymatic activities which are again influenced by temperature and other environmental factors. Dormancy is associated with the accumulation of ABA in the matured seed after harvest. Immature seeds may be sown to produce seedlings. Several techniques have been adopted with little success to break dormancy including scarification, hot water and the use of phytohormones. Several biochemical changes occur during germination. Priming improves seedling survival. Salinity affects germination. With an increase in salinity decreases the mobilization of lipid. Osmotic priming improves seedling emergence, besides environmental stresses affect emergence. Sunflower extracts have allelopathic effects on several crops.

2. N. K. JAIN1, S. K. SINGH2 AND B. L. POONIA3 [Optimization of N, P and K requirements for wheat (Triticum aestivum) grown in sequence with different kharif crops]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 14-17 (2005). R. A. U. Agricultural Research Station, Navgaon, Alwar-301 025 (Rajasthan), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years of 1997-2000 to work out optimum N, P and K requirement for wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol] grown in sequence with different kharif crops. Pooled results revealed that wheat grown after guar recorded the highest values of growth and yield parameters as well as seed and straw yields, closely followed by wheat grown after pearl millet. The lowest seed and straw yields of wheat were recorded when it was grown after onion. When averaged over all preceding crops, wheat was found to respond to nutrients upto 90-13.2-24.9 kg NPK/ha with the highest seed and straw yields of 4006 and 5361 kg/ha, respectively. Optimum dose of N, P and K in the ratio of 3 : 1 : 1 worked out for wheat grown in sequence with guar, cotton, onion pearl millet and pigeonpea was 146.1, 160.2, 155.4, 157.7 and 141.9 kg/ha, respectively.

 

3. DHARMENDRA SINGH1 AND VINAY KUMARI [Yield and yield attributes of seven wheat cultivars as affected by environmental conditions]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 18-20 (2005). Department of Agricultural Botany Janata Mahavidyalaya, Ajitmal, Auraiya (U. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted for two seasons crop (1999-2000 and 2000-01) with seven diverse cultivars of wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.) emend. Fiori & Paol] to understand the effect of environmental conditions on yield and yield attributes of wheat cultivars. Sowing of crop timely in season i. e. about a month and half before November was much productive or even more in comparison to later sowing of until last of November. Delayed sowing around first week of January reduced the growing season and adversely affected the grain yield. The components of grain yield were affected differently in different sowings and into the early and late sowings the matural compensation between these components balanced the effect of sowing dates, while at late sowing the grain yield suffered mostly due to drastic reduction in ear number. Further, the short duration cultivars yielded as much as the medium late types under normal to late sowing. Long duration cultivars were not superior to other types under normal sowing and these invariables yielded less than the other types at late sowing.

4. R. PRAKASH, C. BABU, R. UMA SHANKAR AND G. SENTHIL KUMAR [Kambanchamba–a suitable traditional rice variety for Cauvery delta zone]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 21-22 (2005). Department of Agronomy Annamalai University, Annamalainagar (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted during Samba (Aug.-Dec.) season of 1998 to find out the best suitable traditional rice variety for Tamil Nadu. Altogether 12 traditional rice varieties were collected from all over Tamil Nadu and raised. The fine grain traditional rice vareity Kambanchamba recorded higher growth and yield characters and yield of 3.91 t ha-1. Due to its higher dry matter production it adds more organic matter to the soil and thereby maintains soil fertility and paves the way for sustainable agriculture.

5.      K. MOHANASARIDA AND JOSE MATHEW [Seed priming on crop establishment and seedling vigour in semi-dry rice (Oryza sativa)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 23-25 (2005). Department of Agronomy Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680 656 (Kerala), India.

ABSTRACT

A field study was conducted during kharif 2000 at the Agricultural Research Station, Thrissur, Kerala to study the influence of seed priming on ensuring optimum seedling population with good vigour by mitigating the moisture stress at the early vegetative phase of semi-dry rice. The study revealed that the seedling density was consistently the highest in the treatment involving imidacloprid 0.05% (a systemic insecticide) but comparable values were recorded by NaCl 0.5%, KCl 2% and Azospirillum 2% during different periods of observation from 7 to 27 days after sowing (DAS). Imidacloprid treatment recorded the maximum plant height, root weight, dry matter production at 15 and 30 DAS and root length at 30 DAS. Azospirillum treatment resistered the widest shoot : root ratio at 30 DAS. Data pertaining to the number of tillers showed the significant influence of seed priming.

6. K. MOHANASARIDA AND JOSE MATHEW [Effect of seed hardening on growth and yield attributes and yield of semi-dry rice]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 26-28 (2005). Department of Agronomy, Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur-680 656 (Kerala), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Thrissur, Kerala during kharif season of 2000 to investigate the effect of seed hardening on the growth and yield attributes and the yield of semi-dry rice. The treatments involved hardening of seeds with nutrient solutions, plant protection chemicals, botanicals, organic manures and biofertilizer. Hardening the seeds with imidacloprid (a systemic insecticide) produced the highest yield of 5.3 t ha-1 recording a yield increase of 2.1 t ha-1 over the untreated control. Seed priming with Azospirillum slurry recorded comparable yield of 4.6 t ha-1. An appreciably higher number of panicles m-2 and filled grains per panicle contributed significantly towards the increased yield in these treatments.

7. R. K. DWIVEDI AND B. S. DWIVEDI [Nutrient management of utera linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under rice-based cropping system and residual soil moisture]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 29-31 (2005). JNKVV Tribal Agricultural Research Station, Dindori-481 880 (M. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

The experiments were conducted during 2001-02 and 2002-03 on the farmers’ fields at 10 locations covering two farmers in each of the five villages of Dindori district of Madhya Pradesh. Application of 80 : 40 : 30 kg NPK/ha+20 kg P2O5/ha to rice and 10 kg N/ha to utera crop linseed gave the maximum yield as well as net return upto Rs. 16540/ha, nearly double to that of the farmers’ practice of fertilizer management where partial dose of FYM and urea N was given to the rice crop only. The second best fertilizer treatment was 80 : 30 kg NK/ha to rice and 10 kg N+60 kg P2O5/ha to utera crop of linseed (Net return Rs. 15115/ha). Thus, it is safer to raise total net income by more than double by applying higher fertilizer dose to both the crops under residual soil moisture.

8. J. K. BALYAN AND MAHAK SINGH1 [Effect of seed inoculation, different levels of irrigation and phosphorus on nodulation and root growth development of lentil]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 32-34 (2005). MPUA & T Dryland Farming Research Station P. B. No. 62, Arjia, Bhilwara (Rajasthan), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Janta Vedic College, Baraut comprising 24 treatments with high yielding variety of lentil ‘L 9-12’. Treatment consisted of two levels of incoulation (with and without) in the main plot, three levels of irrigation (control, one and two irrigations) in-sub plot and four levels of phosphorus (0, 25, 50 and 75 kg P2O5 ha-1) in sub-sub plot. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot design in three replications. Number of root nodules, length of root and dry weight of root per metre row length at different successive crop growth stages significantly increased by seed inoculation, increasing levels of irrigation and phosphorus. Seed and straw yield of lentil was also significantly affected by seed inoculation, increasing levels of irrigation and phosphorus.

9. V. NEPALIA [Influence of weed control and sulphur on growth, yield and economics of mustard production]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 35-38 (2005). Department of Agronomy Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001 (Raj.), India.

ABSTRACT

Field experiments at Udaipur revealed that pre-emergence application of oxadiazon 0.5 kg/ha proved superior in increasing the growth and yield of mustard. Hand weeding, oxyfluorfen 0.125 kg/ha and pendimethalin 0.75 kg/ha also gave satisfactory results. Application of sulphur upto 60 kg/ha significantly increased crop dry matter, LAI and productivity of mustard. Higher net returns were obtained by controlling weeds with oxadiazon and application of 60 kg S/ha.

10. S. P. BONDE, ABDUL HAMID, G. J. BHAGAT, MOHAMMED SAJID AND D. J. JIOTODE [Consumptive use, water use efficiency and seed yield of mustard (Brassica juncea) as influenced by levels of irrigation and cycocel]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 39-41 (2005). Department of Agronomy Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola-444 104 (M. S.), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment to study the effect of irrigation and cycocel levels on growth and yield attributes of mustard (Brassica juncea) was conducted at the Farm of Department of Agronomy, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola during rabi season of 2000-01 on clay loam soil. The highest seed yield was recorded in treatment I5 (six irrigations given as pre-sowing and at vegetative, branching, 50% flowering, siliquae formation and seed filling stages) over other treatments, but was at par with treatment I1 (five irrigations given as pre-sowing and at 100 mm CPE). Water use efficiency was highest in treatment I4 (two irrigations given as pre-sowing and at 250 mm CPE), while it was lowest in I5 treatment. The highest consumptive use, absolute and relative water use rates were recorded in I5 treatment (six irrigations applied as pre-sowing and at vegetative, branching, 50% flowering, siliquae formation and seed filling stages) as agaisnt least values recorded in I4 (two irrigations given as pre-sowing and at 250 mm CPE) treatment.

11. C. BABU, G. KUPPUSWAMY, R. UMASHANKAR, N. THAVAPRAKASH AND G. SENTHIL KUMAR [Effect of phyto-hormones, biochemical and bio-fertilizer on growth of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 42-44 (2005). Department of Agronomy Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

Field experiments were conducted during kharif (June-September) season of 1998 and summer (February-May) season of 1999 at Annamalai University Farm, Annamalainagar, India to study the influence of seed soaking with gibberellic acid, Penshibao (biochemical) and Azospirillum and foliar spraying (NAA and Penshibao) on growth of sunflower. The experiment was laid in randomized complete block design with 15 treatment combinations including control. The results revealed that soaking of seeds in Azospirillum @ 1000 g/ha+GA3 45 ppm+Penshibao 100 ppm+foliar spray of Penshibao 100 ppm at 30 and 60 DAS exhibited pronounced effect on growth characters (plant height, number of leaves plant-1, dry matter production and leaf area index) in both the years. Synergistic and cumulative effect of these above treatment combinations had increased 85 and 87% seed yield of sunflower during kharif and summer seasons, respectively, over control.

12. J. KALITA, J. DEKA AND B. N. SARMA [Residual effect of fertilizer and sowing density on growth and yield of linseed grown as relay crop]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 45-46 (2005). Department of Agronomy Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013 (Assam), India.

ABSTRACT

A study was conducted at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat during 1998-99 to study the effect of NPK levels and seed rates of linseed on rice-linseed relay cropping. Among the fertilizer levels, 80 : 40 : 40 N-P2O5-K2O kg/ha showed the highest residual effect over 60 : 30 : 30 and 40 : 20 : 20 N-P2O5-K2O kg/ha by significant increase in plant height, number of branches/plant and number of capsules/plant in linseed. Increasing sowing density of 200% significantly increased the plant density of linseed over 100 and 150% sowing densities. The seed and stover yields of linseed were increased significantly due to increased NPK levels in rice as well as sowing densities of linseed.

13. SAMARENDRA BARIK* [Varietal performance of sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) crop at lower Gangetic plains of India]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 47-54 (2005). Plant Chemistry Unit, Indian Statistical Institute 203, Barrackpur Trunk Road, Calcutta-700 108, India *(e-mail : sbarik@isical.ac.in).

ABSTRACT

Performances of sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.) varieties as well as effect of application of nitrogen (N) fertilizer on the yield have been explored in West Bengal, India. For sugarbeet crop in Eastern India, only one variety Ramnoskaya 06 is being cultivated from dates back. In these experiments alongwith Ramnoskaya 06, five other sugarbeet varieties, namely, Raspoly, Solid, Maribomonova, Virtus and Mariboultramono were tested in the years 1998-2001. The performance of different varieties showed encouraging results in comparison to Ramnoskaya 06. For obtaining different yields from sugarbeet crop, six harvesting days were selected in each 20 days interval starting from 65 days of the crop and upto 165 days. Two nitrogen doses of N120 and N140 kg ha-1 alongwith fixed doses of P60 kg ha-1 and K100 kg ha-1 were selected for the experiments. Highest root yield of 51.45 t ha-1 was given by the variety Solid at 165 days of the crop with N140 kg ha-1 treatment in the second year experiment of 1999-2000. Whereas variety Ramnoskaya 06 gave highest root yield of 46.29 t ha-1 at the same growth stage with the same nitrogen dose in the first year experiment of 1998-99. Highest sugar concentration of 21.67% was given by the variety Mariboultramono at 165 days of the crop with N140 kg ha-1 and closely followed by the variety Virtus (21.17%) at the same growth stage in the second year experiment of 1999-2000. Maximum sugar yield of 10.46 ha-1 was obtained by the variety Solid at 165 days of the crop with N140 kg ha-1 in the year 1999-2000 and very closely followed by 10.12 t ha-1 with N140 kg ha-1 by the same variety at the same growth stage in the year of 1998-99. Whereas maximum sugar yield of 8.76, 8.12 and 8.13 t ha-1 was given by the earlier popular variety Ramnoskaya 06 in the years of 1998-99, 1999-2000 and 2000-01, respectively.

14. U. THAPA, M. K. PATTI, S. B. CHATTOPADHAY AND A. R. MANDAL [Growth and seed yield of onion (Allium cepa L.) cv. Sukh Sagar as influenced by growth regulator and bulb size]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 55-57 (2005). Department of Vegetable Crops Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252, Nadia (West Bengal), India.

ABSTRACT

The present investigation was carried out at Horticulture Research Station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during the year 2001-02. Treatment with larger size bulb (50-65 g) had marked influence on seed yield and yield attributing characters. The maximum seed yield of 14.17 q/ha was obtained with larger sized bulbs. Among the different growth regulators treatment of GA3 was found to be effective on growth and seed yield. The highest seed yield of 14.94 q/ha was obtained with 100 ppm GA3. Decreasing tendency with increasing the concentration of NAA was observed on all growth parameters and seed yield. The lowest seed yield of 12.42 q/ha was obtained from NAA with higher concentration (150 ppm).

15. S. S. HEBBAR1, B. K. RAMACHANDRAPPA AND H. V. NANJAPPA [Effect of drip fertigation on soil water, soil fertility and yield of field grown tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 58-63 (2005). Department of Agronomy University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore-560 065 (Karnataka), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted for two years during the rabi-summer seasons of 1999-2000 and 2000-01 in red sandy loam soil of Main Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore to study the effect of drip fertigation on soil water, soil fertility and yield of field grown tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in the semi-arid tropics. Fertigation with 100% water soluble fertilizers increased the marketable fruit yield and water use efficiency compared to soil application of fertilizer directly either with furrow or drip irrigation. Sub-surface drip fertigation was on par with surface drip fertigation in maintaining favourable soil moisture and enhancing the yield. Fruit quality parameters were not altered either by drip irrigation or fertigation except the ascorbic acid content and titrable acidity. Drip fertigation could maintain soil fertility but there was no change in soil pH and electrical conductivity.

16. G. SINGH AND J. S. KANWAR [Effect of shoot vigour on periodical change in fruit weight and size of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] cv. Shan-i-Punjab]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 64-67 (2005). Department of Horticulture Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004 (Punjab), India.

ABSTRACT

The investigation was conducted at Pujnab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to study the effect of shoot vigour on periodical change in fruit weight and size of peach cv. Shan-i-Punjab during 1999-2000. Fruits from all categories of shoots increased in weight between March 10 and May 24 to reach a final weight of 27.40 g in vigorous (mean length 75 cm), 24.10 g in medium vigorous (mean length 50 cm), 24.0 g in poor vigorous (mean length 20 cm) category shoots. The final fruit weight differences between vigorous and medium vigorous and vigorous and poor vigorous shoot categories were highly significant. However, the final weight difference between medium and poor vigorous category of shoots was not significant. No significant difference was observed in final fruit length among different shoot vigour categories but the difference in the final fruit diameter among all categories of shoots was significant. It was concluded that fruit weight and size were greatly influenced by the vigourness of the shoots in peach plant. The periods of significant increase in fruit weight and size were also different in all the shoot vigour categories.

17. R. A. BALIKAI [Management of grape mealy bug, Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) using insect growth regulator] Res. on crops 6 (1) : 68-71 (2005). U. A. S. Regional Research Station, Bijapur-586 101 (Karnataka), India.

ABSTRACT

A field trial was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Buprofezin 25 SC (Applaud 25 SC) during rabi 2000-01. Results revealed that on 10th day after 1st, 2nd and 3rd sprays, Buprofezin 25 SC @ 2250 ml/ha recorded least number of mealy bug colonies per vine (27.7, 19.3 and 8.2, respectively) and was at par with Buprofezin 25 SC @ 1500 ml/ha which in turn was at par with Buprofezin 25 SC @ 1125 ml/ha. Similarly, on 10th day after 1st, 2nd and 3rd sprays, Buprofezin 25 SC @ 2250 ml/ha recorded least number of mealy bug colonies per bunch (6.8, 2.9 and 2.0, respectively) followed by Buprofezin 25 SC @ 1500 ml/ha and Buprofezin 25 SC @ 1125 ml/ha which were at par with each other. Thus, looking to the efficacy of insecticides both on vine and bunches, the lower dosage of Buprofezin 25 SC @ 1125 ml/ha alongwith fish oil rosin soap (Meenark) @ 3125 g/ha can be recommended for the management of mealy bugs on grapes.

18. K. MURALI, K. SRINIVAS1, S. THIMMEGOWDA, V. SHANKARANARAYANA AND K. N. KALYANAMURTHY [Effect of differential irrigation on yield and yield parameters of ‘Elakki’ banana]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 72-75 (2005). Department of Agronomy University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore-560 065 (Karnataka), India.

ABSTRACT

Irrigation scheduled at an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 during vegetative stage (main crop) recorded the higher fruit yield (28.75 t/ha), followed by an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 (28.07 t/ha), 0.6 (24.89 t/ha) and the yield was lower with 0.4 IW/CPE ratio (21.89 t/ha). Similarly, irrigation scheduled at an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 during reproductive stage (main crop) recorded the higher fruit yield (27.13 t/ha) followed by an IW/CPE ratio of 0.8 (26.65 t/ha), 0.6 (25.39 t/ha) and it was lower with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.4 (24.42 t/ha). Irrigation scheduled at an IW/CPE ratio of 1.0 during vegetative stage (main crop) recorded higher number of fingers per bunch (148.40), number of hands per bunch (10.62), bunch weight (11.50 kg/plant), length of fruit (12.24 cm), fruit girth (12.62 cm), fruit fresh weight (93.55 g/finger) and fruit dry weight (30.24 g/finger) and were lower with an IW/CPE ratio of 0.4. The trend was similar during reproductive stage also.

19. A. K. PAL [Regeneration of plantlets from cutting with varying number of nodes of four foliage plants]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 76-79 (2005). Department of Floriculture & Landscaping Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252 (West Bengal), India.

ABSTRACT

An experiment was carreid out at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal, India to standardize the regeneration of plantlets from cuttings with varying number of nodes of four foliage plants. In order to study the effect of retention of number of nodes per cutting one, two and three node cuttings were used and planted in sterilized sand medium. Three nodes per cutting taken from Aglaonema commutatum ‘Treubii’, Dieffenbachia maculata, Monstera obliqua and Philodendron ‘Ceylon Gold’ had early root and shoot emergence and developed longest length of root and shoot, maximum number of root and leaf, higher percentage of rooting and also fresh and dry weight of root and shoot. On the other hand, one node cuttings were lagging behind in all parameters tested in the experiment.

20. P. V. SATYANARAYANA, T. SRINIVAS, P. RAGHAVA REDDY, L. MADHAVILATHA AND Y. SUNEETHA [Studies on variability, correlation and path coefficient analysis for restorer lines in rice (Oryza sativa L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 80-84 (2005). Agricultural Research Station, Maruteru, West Godavari District-534 122 (A. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

Sixty-six elite restorer lines of WA based Indica cyto-steriles, derived from the on-going restorer improvement programme at Agricultural Research Station, Maruteru, West Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh were evaluated for their variability with regards to yield and yield component characters. Estimates of heritability and genetic advance were also obtained, in addition to studies on character associations and path coefficients. The results revealed high variability, heritability and genetic advance for number of grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, days to 50% flowering and plant height, while test weight had recorded high variability and heritability, coupled with low genetic advance. The traits viz., number of effective tillers per plant and panicle length had recorded low heritability. Further, yield was observed to be positively associated with spikelet fertility, panicle length, number of grains per panicle and number of effective tillers per plant. Among these, panicle length and spikelet fertility were noticed to exert maximum direct effect on grain yield. High indirect effects of the different yield component traits studied were also noticed through spikelet fertility on grain yield, indicating the need for emphasis on spikelet fertility during selections for yield improvement in restorer lines of rice.

21. AMIT DADHEECH AND V. N. JOSHI [Stability for grain yield in maize (Zea mays L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 85-88 (2005). Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001 (Raj.), India.

ABSTRACT

An experiment was conducted during the kharif 2000 to study stability in 74 genotypes of sorghum (51 hybrids, 20 parents and 3 checks) under four environments. Variance due to genotypes, environments, genotype x environment interaction were found significant for grain yield, ear length, ear girth, 100-grain weight and number of grain rows per ear. Among the genotypes, regression coefficient less than unity (bi<1) and maximum grain yield was exhibited by hybrid SLT 32-3-1 x X1W 1076-1-1 followed by HP (A) 42-1-1 x X2W 3179-1-2-4, HP (A) 67-2-1 x X2W 3997-2-1-1, HP (A) 52-2-2 x X2W 3997-2-1-1 and Hyderabad 3105-3 x X2W 3997-2-1-1. As such these hybrids would show stable performance for grain yield per plant in unfavourable environments. Further, hybrid SLT 32-3-1 x X1W 1076-1-1 also exhibited above average response for all the characters under study except 100-grain weight. Maximum mean performance for grain yield contributing traits was also exhibited by this hybrid. Thus, hybrid SLT 32-3-1 x X1W 1076-1-1 appeared promising for adoption and would require large scale multilocation testing.

22. HEMLATA SHARMA, G. S. SHARMA AND AMIT DADHEECH [Heterosis for stover yield and its component traits in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 89-91 (2005). Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001 (Raj.), India.

ABSTRACT

Eighty hybrids of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) derived from 4 lines x 20 testers were evaluated for stover yield and component traits. Data were analyzed for heterosis. Significant heterotic crosses for the characters under study indicated the presence of genetic diversity among parental lines. Number of crosses exhibiting significant positive heterosis, heterobeltiosis and economic heterosis for stover yield were 48, 25 and 25, respectively. The hybrid 296A x SPV 1330 showed highest magnitude of economic heterosis (14.40%) for stover yield. It also depicted superiority for number of green leaves per plant at physiological maturity, hence, was suggested for commercial exploitation of heterosis.

23. K. SUNDARAVADIVELU1, V. R. K. REDDY AND K. RATHINAVEL2 [Heterosis and inbreeding depression in intervarietal crosses of Gossypium hirsutum L. II. Backcrossed progenies]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 92-97 (2005). Department of Botany Bharathiar University, Coimbatore-641 046 (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

In BC1 generation, the cross involving parents (MCU 8 x Acala) x Acala was found promising and showed increased mean value over F1s for six out of 10 characters viz., number of monopodia, number of sympodia, 100-seed cotton weight, lint and seed indices and fibre length. Whereas the crosses involving parents MCU 8 with GS 21, Paiyur 1, LRA 5166 and MCU 8 with Acala and HLS 72 and SVPR 1 with LRK 516 showed inbreeding depression for the traits viz., plant height, number of bolls and seed cotton yield due to negative shift of mean values over respective F1s. The cross (LRA 5166 x GS 21) x GS 21 in both BC1 F2 and BC2 generation recorded heterosis as positive shift of mean value over F1 for number of monopodia, number of sympodia, 100-seed cotton weight, lint and seed indices, fibre length and seed cotton yield, respectively. It indicates that the genetic effects of male parents used in this study were useful for obtaining suitable genotypes in the backcross progenies with that of female parents crossed.

24. S. RATNA KUMARI AND N. CHAMUNDESWARI [Studies on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 98-99 (2005). Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lamfarm, Guntur-522 034, India.

ABSTRACT

Variability, heritability and genetic advance for different physiological characters have been estimated using 25 genotypes of cotton. The phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation values were higher for number of monopodia followed by seed cotton yield per plant (g). High heritability estimates alongwith high genetic advance were observed for seed cotton yield per plant (g), chlorophyll stability index, relative water content (%) and specific leaf area (cm2/g) indicating that these characters are under control of additive gene action. The characters viz., specific leaf weight (mg/cm2) and monopodia showed high heritability with low genetic advance suggesting non-additive gene action control over them. Number of bolls per plant showed high heritability with moderate genetic advance indicating presence of both additive and non-additive gene actions. The characters plant height at maturity, boll weight and number of sympodia had shown low heritability with low genetic advance revealing that these characters are controlled by polygenes.

25. K. V. PATEL, S. VARGHESE, M. L. PATEL, U. G. PATEL, J. S. PATEL AND V. B. DARJI [Genetic variability and heritability of some characters of cotton seed]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 100-103 (2005). G. A. U. Main Cotton Research Station, Surat-395 007 (Gujarat), India.

ABSTRACT

Thirty-seven genotypes of cotton were evaluated for physical characters viz., seed index, linter percentage, hull percentage and kernel percentage alongwith oil content. The highest genotypic and phenotypic variability was observed in linter percentage followed by seed index. The broad sense heritability was 80 to 93% and genetic advance ranged from 10 to 51% for different characters. The genotype G. Cot. 67 had higher oil content (24.9%) followed by NA 920, American necteriless, Hybrid 4 and G. Cot. Desi Hybrid 7 which were at par.

26. R. P. SHARMA AND P. SINGH [Correlation and regression analysis in mustard under various weed management practices and phosphorus levels]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 104-105 (2005). Department of Agronomy Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur-313 001 (Raj.), India.

ABSTRACT

A field experiment was conducted during 1998-99 and 1999-2000 at Udaipur to study the effect of weed management and phosphorus levels on growth and yield of mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]. The results showed that the seed yield of mustard was significant and negatively correlated with all the weed parameters. While it was positively correlated with all the crop parameters. Similarly, regression analysis indicated that there was a negative linear relationship between weed dry weight and mustard seed yield. The seed yield of mustard reduced by 2.0 kg/ha with every unit (kg) increase in weed dry weight/ha. Further, each unit (kg) increase in the uptake of NPK and S by weeds resulted in reduction of about 110.23, 198.95, 50.03 and 698.28 kg seed yield of mustard/ha, respectively.

27. R. P. GNANAMALAR, P. VIVEKANANDAN AND A. MANICKAVELU [Genetic divergence in greengram]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 106-108 (2005). Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625 104 (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

A group of 59 genotypes of greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] was studied to analyse the extent of genetic divergence using Mahalanobis D2 technique. The genotypes got grouped into eight clusters based on their genetic diversity. The clustering pattern was independent of geographic distrubution. Highest inter-cluster value was observed between clusters IV and VIII. Seed yield and 100-seed weight had contributed 98% of total divergence. The varieties belonging to clusters IV and VIII having maximum statistical distance may be selected for hybridization programme as they are expected to produce good segregants.

28. R. RAMU, N. SREEDHAR AND C. LAVANYA [Study of correlation and path analysis in castor (Ricinus communis L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 109-111 (2005). Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030 (Andhra Pradesh), India.

ABSTRACT

Fifteen hybrids obtained by crossing three lines with five testers in a line x tester mating design were evaluated for character association and path analysis alongwith parents. Total number of spikes per plant, total number of capsules on main spike and seed yield per plant exhibited significant positive association with oil yield. Path analysis indicated the importance of seed yield per plant, total number of spikes per plant and oil content. These traits should be given main emphasis for evolving high yielding genotypes of castor.

29. DINESH KUMAR JAIN, S. K. JAIN, P. C. BORDIA AND A. JOSHI [Study of genetic variability and correlation in germplasm of opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 112-115 (2005). Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur-313 001 (Rajasthan), India.

ABSTRACT

Genetic variability and genotypic and phenotypic correlations were carried out in 93 genotypes alongwith three checks viz., Chetak Aphim, JA-16 and IC-42 of opium poppy. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for six characters, namely, days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering, seed yield per plant, husk yield per plant, latex yield per plant and morphine per cent indicating sufficient amount of variability in the material under study. The high genetic gain alongwith high heritability and high genetic coefficient of variation were observed in latex yield per plant, seed yield per plant, husk yield per plant and morphine per cent. Latex yield was positively and significantly associated with stem diameter, days to flower initiation, days to 50% flowering and number of effective capsules per plant. Seed yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with husk yield per plant.

30. S. KUMAR, K. S. HEERA AND T. PRABHU [Diallel analysis in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) for yield and capsaicin content]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 116-118 (2005). Department of Horticulture Agricultural College and Research Institute, Madurai-625 104 (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

An investigation was done in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) to understand the genetic architecture of yield and capsaicin content. The study included six inbreds, crossed in a 6 x 6 diallel mating design using method I, model I, to generate 30 hybrids. The six parents used were PKM 1 (P1), Palur 1 (P2), Exotic type 1 (P3), Exotic type 2 (P4), K 1 (P5) and K 2 (P6). The studies on correlation and path coefficient analysis showed that single fruit weight, number of fruits per plant and 100-seed weight are the most important component traits governing the fruit yield. By applying selection pressure on number of seeds per fruit in positive side and single fruit weight in negative side can improve the capsaicin content of fruits.

31. S. RATNA KUMARI, P. SUBBARAMAMMA AND A. NARAYANAN [Studies on the rooting pattern of rice genotypes and association of root characteristics with yield]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 119-122 (2005). Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lam, Guntur-522 034, India.

ABSTRACT

Root studies conducted with 20 rice genotypes in pot culture revealed that the root length, root weight and root : shoot ratio were associated with highest grain yield under upland conditions. The genotypes MTU 1001, WGL 3825, Erramallelu, APHR 2, MTU 1001, WGL 14399-1 and Rasi recorded highest root weight and root : shoot ratio. While APHR 2, Erramallelu, MTU 9993, MS Vari, Rasi and MTU 1001 recorded maximum root length at 35 days after sowing (DAS).

32. A. R. GAIKWAD AND K. L. DOBARIYA [In vitro morphogenetic response of some pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) genotypes]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 123-126 (2005). Department of Agricultural Botany Gujarat Agricultural University, Junagadh-362 001 (Gujarat), India.

ABSTRACT

In vitro morphogenetic response was studied using immature inflorescence and leaf sheath derived calli of eight genotypes of pearl millet viz., 81A, 405A, J-998, J-2290, J-2296, GHB-183, GHB-235 and GHB-316. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes, explants, media and their interactions for regeneration response. Hybrid GHB-316 as a genotype, immature inflorescence derived callus and MS+2.0 mg l-1 BA as a culture medium were the most responsive for achieving higher regeneration response. The calli form all the three hybrids were found earlier in shoot initiation and regenerated higher number of shoots per callus piece as compared to the calli of their respective parents indicating the presence of heterosis for these two characters. Root induction in shoots was highly dependent on genotypes and rooting media. The shoots of hybrid GHB-316 and hormone-free half strength MS medium were the best for obtaining higher rooting response. The rooted shoots were established in polythene bags filled with a potting mixture of sand, soil and FYM in 1 : 2 : 1 ratio.

33. L. J. RAVAL AND K. L. DOBARIYA [Selection indices for yield improvement in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 127-130 (2005). Department of Agricultural Botany Gujarat Agricultural University, Junagadh-362 001 (Gujarat), India.

ABSTRACT

Sixty-three selection indices involving seed yield and its five components were constructed using the discriminant function technique. The efficiency of selection increased with inclusion of more number of characters in the index. The index based on five characters viz., seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight, biological yield per plant and harvest index recorded the highest genetic advance and relative efficiency followed by an index based on four characters viz., seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight and biological yield per plant. The use of these indices is advocated for selecting high yielding genotypes of chickpea.

 

34. RAM MURTI AND A. H. KHAN [Effect of dinitroaniline herbicides on growth parameters, yield and protein contents in grain of urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper] crop]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 131-133 (2005). Department of Crop Physiology N. D. University of Agriculture & Technology, Faizabad-224 229 (U. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

A field study was carried out during kharif season at Student’s Instructional Farm of N. D. University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad with a view to evaluate the effect of two dinitroaniline herbicides on growth parameters, yield and protein content in grain of urdbean. Application of pendimethalin and fluchloralin @ 0.75, 1.0 and 1.0 kg/ha did not produce significant effect on net assimilation rate (NAR) and relative growth rate, yield and yield attributing characters and protein content in grains. However, the higher doses of herbicides were found highly effective in increasing protein content in grain than the lower dose of herbicides.

 

35. B. VIJAYAKUMARI, A. J. DIVYA AND R. HIRANMAI YADAV [Study of use of botanicals and fungicides in the preservation of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] seeds]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 134-138 (2005). Department of Botany Avinashilingam University, Coimbatore-641 043 (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

An investigation on the pre-storage treatment of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill] seeds with botanicals (arappu leaf powder, neem leaf powder, vasambu rhizome powder and turmeric rhizome powder) and fungicides (bavistin and captan) was carried out at Avinashilingam Deemed University, Coimbatore. To elucidate the effect of seed treatments, biometric observations were made 20 days after sowing the treated soybean seeds. The germination percentage, shoot length, seedling fresh weight and vigour index were more in seeds treated with arappu leaf powder compared to other treatments. Bavistin treated seeds recorded higher root length and dry weight of seedlings. With increasing storage duration, fresh weight and dry weight of the soybean seedlings increased, whereas the germination percentage, shoot length, root length and vigour index decreased.

 

36. M. P. KANDALKAR, B. M. JAMDAGNI, V. W. BENDALE AND B. B. JADHAV [Interaction of plant growth regulators and fertilizer nutrients for management of water stress in mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss]]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 139-141 (2005). Department of Botany College of Agriculture, Dapoli-415 712 (M. S.), India.

ABSTRACT

The field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 1998-99 at Research Farm, Department of Agricultural Botany, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, District Ratnagiri (Maharashtra) to study the interaction of plant growth regulators and fertilizer nutrients for management of water stress. Application of fertilizer nutrients and plant growth regulators with recommended N and P showed significant increased grain yield. The interaction of Aux. vit. complex with fertilizer mixture can lead to increasing drought tolerance efficiency in tune of 95.91% by giving a maximum yield of 618.88 kg/ha which is comparable with yield of irrigated crop (645.25 kg/ha).

 

37. SMRITI REKHA BORAH AND S. K. DUTTA [Distribution pattern of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner in terms of damaged pods in pigeonpea]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 142-144 (2005). Department of Entomology Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013 (Assam), India.

ABSTRACT

The distribution pattern of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner was assessed by sampling the damaged pods as a larval population index in pigeonpea (cv. T-21) grown in two seasons 2000-01 and 2001-02. The damaged pods were found to follow clumped distribution which was confirmed by Iwao’s patchiness regression and Taylor’s power law.

 

38. TAPAN KUMAR HATH AND BIBEK RANJAN DAS [Introduction of trap crops for the management of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner in late planted tomato under terai agroecology of West Bengal*]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 145-147 (2005). Department of Agricultural Entomology Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar-736 165 (West Bengal), India.

ABSTRACT

In an experiment conducted during 2001at Cooch Behar, West Bangal (India), possibilities of using trap crops for the management of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner in late planted tomato were explored. Results revealed that during first week of April highest percentage of fruits was damaged due to the fruit borer and it was 26.59 and 22.98% in Pusa Ruby and Abinash-II variety, respectively. Mean per cent fruit damage was 19.21 and 16.33% in the former and later variety, respectively. It was observed that both the trap crops (French bean and Tajetes erecta), used in the study, significantly reduced per cent infested fruits. Greatest reduction in infestation due to French bean was 38.05 and 40.90% in Pusa Ruby and Abinash-II, respectively, while in the former and later case 32.27 and 39.5% lower infestation was afforded due to Tajetes erecta. More number of trap crops with various planting geometry has been suggested for further studies.

 

39. G. KALAISELVI AND V. R. K. REDDY [Yield performance of the near-isogenic lines carrying different rust resistance in three Indian wheat cultivars]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 148-151 (2005). Cytogenetics Laboratory, Department of Botany Bharathiar University, Coimbatore-641 046 (Tamil Nadu), India.

ABSTRACT

Eight stem rust resistance genes (Sr24, Sr25, Sr26, Sr27, Sr28, Sr31, Sr36 and Sr38) and four leaf rust resistance genes (Lr19, Lr24, Lr26, Lr27), and two stripe rust resistance genes (Yr9 and Yr17) were transferred from alien hexaploid wheat stocks into three Indian hexaploid wheat cultivars viz., HW 2034, HW 4001 and K 8962. Yield performance of the lines was tested under artificially created rust-free condition. Chemical treated lines exhibited about 24.79 to 27.44% increase in yield over their respective untreated controls. An increase of 20.78 to 44.25% yield was noticed in all the constituted lines over the untreated controls. But when the yield per cent of the constituted lines was compared with the chemical treated controls, both increase and decrease in the yield were observed. The per cent grain yield increase ranged from 0.31 (HW 2034 x W 3353–Sr27) to 15.59% (K 8962 x RL 6081–Sr38+Lr37+Yr17) and decrease in per cent grain yield ranged from -0.20 (HW 2034 x Eagle–Sr26) to -4.27% (HW 4001 x Eagle–Sr26).

 

40. PRIYA JOHN, NARENDAR NATH TRIPATHI AND NAVEEN KUMAR [Evaluation of sesame germplasm/cultivars for resistance against charcoal rot]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 152-153 (2005). Department of Plant Pathology CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana), India.

ABSTRACT

Sesame germplasm/cultivars studied for resistance against charcoal rot caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butler (Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid) exhibited variation in their reaction to disease under high inoculum pressure. Out of the 30 germplasm tested, TLC-246, TLC-279 and TLC-281 were found to be highly resistant, whereas TLC-184, TLC-235, TLC-236, TLC-253 and TLC-270 were highly susceptible to charcoal rot.

 

41. RAKESH MEHRA AND VINOD BATRA [Evaluation of cauliflower varieties for resistance against downy mildew disease and yield]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 154-155 (2005). Department of Plant Pathology CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana), India.

ABSTRACT

Six varieties of cauliflower were evaluated for downy mildew disease caused by Peronospora parasitica (Pers. ex Fr.) Fr. and yield performance during 1995-96 and 1996-97. None of the varieties showed highly resistant reaction. However, four varieties viz., KJ-31, KT-25, KPS-1 and PSBK-1 exhibited resistant reaction. KT-9 and Pusa Snowball-1 varieties were found moderately resistant and moderately susceptible, respectively, against this disease. Resistant varieties showed significantly higher yield. Among the varieties showing resistant reaction, KT-25 gave highest yield (247.40 q/ha) followed by PSBK-1 (216.25 q/ha), KPS-1 (205.35 q/ha) and KJ-31 (193.10 q/ha). However, least yield was recorded in moderately susceptible Pusa Snowball-1 (181.15 q/ha).

 

42. HEMANTH GUPTA, B. P. SINGH1, JITENDRA MOHAN2 AND M. NARAYANA BHAT1 [Characterization of Phytophthora infestans for physiological races and virulence factors in Himachal Pradesh hills and Indo-Gangetic plains]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 156-159 (2005). Central Potato Research Institute, Shimla-171 001 (H. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

Two hundred and twenty-four isolates of Phytophthora infestans collected during 1997-99 from Himachal Pradesh hills and Indo-Gangetic plains were analyzed subsequently for physiological races during 1997-99 using 16 differentials obtained from Scottish Research Institute (SCRI), U. K. Race spectrum and their complexity were much higher in Himachal Pradesh as compared to Indo-Gangetic plains. Frequency of different races as well as the virulence factors varied from year to year. A total of 45 races comprising 2-9 genes were detected in H. P. hills as against eight races (4-7 genes) in Indo-Gangetic plains. Frequency of virulence factors 1 and 3 was highest in H. P. hills, whereas in Indo-Gangetic plains virulence factors, 1 and 7 were most dominant.

 

43. J. HEMANTHA KUMAR, K. CHANDRASEKHARA RAO AND D. RAJA RAM REDDY [Sensitivity of Colletotrichum capsici isolates (leaf spot of turmeric) to carbendazim in Andhra Pradesh]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 160-162 (2005). Department of Plant Pathology Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030 (A. P.), India.

ABSTRACT

Sensitivity of 21 isolates of Colletotrichum capsici (Syd.) Butler and Bisby (leaf spot of turmeric) collected from different turmeric growing areas in Andhra Pradesh to carbendazim was studied in vitro conditions. The test revealed that three isolates viz., Ct1, Ct2 and Ct3 were highly sensitive and were comparable with reference sensitive strains. Eleven isolates viz., Ct10, Ct11, Ct12, Ct14, Ct15, Ct16, Ct17, Ct18, Ct19, Ct20 and Ct21 were sensitive with ED50 values ranging between 1.11 to 13.62 µg ml-1. Two isolates (Ct9 and Ct13) were categorised under weakly resistant with ED50 values ranging between 29.08 to 58.52 µg ml-1. However, two isolates (Ct7 and Ct8) were moderately resistant with ED50 values ranging between 113.42 to 145.98 µg ml-1 and three isolates (Ct4, Ct5 and Ct6) were resistant with ED50 values ranging between 326.78 to 381.32 µg ml-1. All these resistant isolates originated from turmeric fields with known history of carbendazim usage.

 

44. V. V. DESHMUKH, D. J. JIOTODE, G. S. JEUGHALE AND P. U. GHATOL [Some nutritional aspects of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vignaradiatae]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 163-164 (2005). Department of Plant Pathology Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola (M. S.), India.

ABSTRACT

A laboratory experiment was conducted to study some nutritional aspects of Xanthomonas campestris pv. vignaradiatae. The study revealed that isolates grew best on yeast extracts, calcium carbonate agar and nutrient agar medium. The maximum growth was observed in 2 and 3% salt concentration. Inorganic nitrogen i. e. ammonium nitrate supported good growth and carbon source was best through fructose. Identification of the bacteria was confirmed with regard to starch hydrolysis, gelatin liquefaction H2S gas production, production of acid and gas from different carbohydrates, thermal death point and catalyst test.

 

45. K. HAZARIKA, M. F. RAHMAN AND L. C. BORA1 [Interaction of Meloidogyne incognita and Ralstonia solanacearum on jute; its effect on the resultant nematode population*]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 165-169 (2005). Department of Nematology Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785 013 (Assam), India.

ABSTRACT

Interrelationship of two soil-borne diseases causing organisms viz., root-knot nematode and wilt causing bacteria on jute were studied under screen house conditions. Expression of wilting by the host was found earlier when both organisms were inoculated, which became extensive with the increased inoculum level of the nematode in combination of the bacteria. The nematode alone retarded the plant height to a greater extent compared to its association with the bacteria. Development of the nematode population was inhibited by the presence of the bacteria with higher number of males in the resultant nematode population.

 

46. M. L. JAT, R. V. SINGH1, N. S. SOLANKI, B. S. KUMPAWAT, J. K. BALYAN AND L. K. JAIN [Rainfall characteristics and crop planning in Bhilwara region]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 170-172 (2005). M. P. U. A. T. Dryland Farming Research Station, P. B. No. 62, Arjia, Bhilwara-311 001 (Raj.), India.

ABSTRACT

The rainfall data of 42 years of Bhilwara have been statistically analysed. Onset and withdrawal of the rainy season were worked out. The study revealed that off-season tillage and primary tillage may be started from 24th week and sowing of crop may be started from 27th week. Occurrence of two consecutive dry weeks has been worked out by Markov-Chain model. The study revealed that mid-season drought may likely to occur in 34th-36th weeks and terminal drought may likely to occur in 37th week onwards.

 

47. AVTAR SINGH VIRK, J. N. KAUL, B. S. BHANGOO AND AVTAR SINGH [Influence of planting techniques and plant population on biology and pod productivity of summer groundnut varieties]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 173-174 (2005). Department of Agronomy & Agro-meteorology Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004 (Punjab), India.

ABSTRACT

Two varieties of groundnut SG 84 and M 522 were evaluated under three planting techniques and three plant population in summer at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The levels of plant population constituted a most vital factor influencing the pod productivity of groundnut planted in summer. A plant population of 222 thousand plants/ha recorded the highest yield irrespective of the variety as compared to the reduced levels of 167 (25% less) and 111 (50% less) thousands/ha. Variety SG 84 gave relatively higher pod yield than M 522, the difference being insignificant. Different planting techniques viz., flat, raised bed and ridges under the prevailing soil and climatic conditions failed to influence the pod production of groundnut.

 

48. U. C. KAR AND D. SWAIN [Induced dwarf mutant in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)]. Res. on crops 6 (1) : 175-176 (2005). All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Oilseeds (Sesamum) Orissa University of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003(Orissa), India.

ABSTRACT

Sesame ‘Dwarf mutants’ with plant height ranging from 12 to 43 cm and woody stem were induced from mutagenic treatment of sesame cv. B 67 with EMS (0.25 and 0.50%), NG (0.04%), gamma rays (700 Gy) and combination treatment of 700 Gy gamma rays irradiated seeds with EMS (0.25 and 0.75%) and NG (0.01, 0.02 and 0.04%). In these mutants the apical bud terminated to a flower, restricting further vegetative growth of stem and branches. These dwarf mutants were resistant to lodging. This could be suitable to raise a population with higher plant density and sustained water stress conditions. Such dwarf mutants would be of importance for utilization as a genetic marker in gene mapping.