Volume 9 Number 5 (September )

Effect of three insecticides on Post Embryonic development, egg production and body weight of Rhynocoris longifrons (Stal) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Reduviidae)

P.J. Edward George

Post embroyonic development time egg production rate and body weight of Rhynocoris longifrons (Stal°) were studied for three commonly used insecticides in the agro ecosystem namely monocrotophos, dimethoate and quinalphos. All of the instecticides increased and stadial period and decreased the body weight, egg production and longevity. Maximum effect of the insecticides was observed in monocrotophos treated insects which was followed by dimethoate and quinalphos applied insects. This study paves an idea that while applying the insecticides in the agro ecosystem to control insect pests, care should be taken in the selection of insecticides which will be safe to the non-target insects which is already available in the ecosystem.

Co-application of bio-organic and fly ash: strategies for managing root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita in papaya (Carica papaya) crop

This study investigates the effects of various bio-organic amendments on the growth, physiological parameters, and nematode infestation in papaya crop. Treatments included fly ash (FA) at different concentrations (10%, 20% and 30%) inoculated with 2000 juveniles of Meloidogyne incognita (MI), neem cake (NC) at 50g and 100g inoculated with MI, and Trichoderma viride (Tv) at 1g and 2g inoculated with MI juveniles. Results showed significant improvements in shoot length, root length, fresh and dry weights, and chlorophyll content in plants treated with bio-organic and FA amendments compared to the untreated inoculated control (UIC). The highest shoot length was observed in the untreated un-inoculated control (UUC) at 55 cm, while UIC had the lowest at 32 cm. Treatments with 100g NC + MI and 2g Tv + MI resulted in shoot lengths of 52 cm and 54 cm, respectively, and increases of 62.5% and 68.8% compared to UIC. Root length was significantly improved with 100g NC + MI and 2g Tv + MI, reaching 43 cm and 47 cm, respectively, representing increases of 230.8% and 261.5% compared to UIC. Chlorophyll-a content increased to 2.04 mg/g and 2.113 mg/g, while chlorophyll-b content reached 1.06 mg/g and 1.15 mg/g in treatments with 100g NC + MI and 2g Tv + MI, respectively. Total chlorophyll content was highest at 3.1 mg/g with 100g NC + MI. Nematode infestation was markedly reduced, with 100g NC + MI and 2g Tv + MI showed no egg masses and root-knot indices (GI) of 2 and 2, respectively. Overall, bio-organic amendments, particularly higher concentrations of neem cake and T. viride, significantly enhance plant growth and reduce nematode infestation, suggesting their potential as sustainable agricultural practices for managing plant parasitic nematodes.

Using wood for fuel in the North-Eastern Part of India - A review of the current situation

Ruby, Garima Tiwari

The domestic usage of fuelwood as the primary energy source has created considerable deforestation in North East India. The extraction of most fuel wood from wood is one of the principal causes of disturbance to the native forest flora of north east India. In this study, scientific journals, edited books, and other scientific databases were studied to examine fuelwood consumption trends in the North East India. A total of 162 plant species from 53 families were utilized as fuel by the natives of the region of seven sister states, along with Sikkim, according to a review of the relevant literature. Depending on their local availability, different plant species have been used as fuels in diverse locations. Schima wallichi, A. procera, and Toona ciliata were the most profound species reported in scientific literature. The FVI ranges from 22678 to 2.43 in the listed species. The accumulated data on fuelwood consumption patterns and fuelwood species utilized in the NEH could serve as a baseline for future studies and policy formulation, thus aiding in conserving the region's forest resources.

Innovative nano-solution: Biosynthesized nickel oxide nano-particles (NPs) protect carrot roots from root knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita infestation

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is a crucial horticultural crop globally, valued for its nutritional benefits and economic significance. However, it faces substantial challenges from plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne incognita, which significantly impact yield and quality. In this study, we examined the effect of Meloidogyne incognita (MI) infected carrot plants, that were treated separately with Ocimum santum leaves extract, Nickel sulphate salts and Nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO-NPs) at different concentration (10, 50, 250, 500, 750 & 1000 ppm) as a pot set experiment. The result focused on the plant physiological, growth and nematode related parameters of MI inoculated plants that were treated with 1000 ppm verses the controlled untreated one. It shows significant plant growth in shoot length increased by 35.47%, root length by 266.4%, shoot fresh weight by 724%, root fresh weight by 631.2%, shoot dry weight by 819%, and root dry weight by 560.1% and the Physiological parameters shows improvement in total chlorophyll content 115% and carotenoid content decreased by 61.26% compared to the untreated control. Substantial reduction in the activity of nematode population per soil, gall formation and eggs per egg mass indicates promising applications of green-synthesized NiO NPs at 1000 ppm as sustainable agents for managing nematode infestations in carrot cultivation, there by contributing to enhanced crop productivity and sustainability in agriculture.

Ecological Sensitivity Analysis of Maoming City based on GIS and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP)

Xiao Min Chen, Ruei-Yuan Wang

Urban ecological environment is the material basis for the survival and development of residents, and ecological sensitivity research is of great significance for understanding and protecting the ecosystem, promoting sustainable development, preventing and controlling environmental problems. With the progress of science and technology and the increasingly prominent environmental problems, the importance of ecological sensitivity research is increasing, and it has become one of the hot spots in environmental science research. In this paper, geographic information system (GIS) and analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) are used to evaluate the ecological sensitivity of Maoming City. Firstly, the spatial database of ecological sensitivity assessment is constructed by integrating 9 factors such as elevation and slope with GIS technology. Secondly, AHP method was used to determine the weight of each ecological sensitivity factor, including elevation, slope, slope direction, land use type, vegetation coverage and water environment. Finally, combined with the above data and weights, the ecological sensitivity of Maoming City was quantitatively evaluated, and divided into four sensitive areas: insensitive, low sensitive, medium sensitive and high sensitive, and the spatial distribution map of ecological sensitivity was drawn. The results showed that the comprehensive ecological sensitivity of Maoming city was high, mainly characterized by insensitivity and low sensitivity, which accounted for 69.31%.

Economic Analysis of Cost of Cultivation and Benefit Cost Ratio of Cauliflower in Response to Solid and Liquid Organic Mannure

This study evaluates the economic impact of using solid and liquid organic manures on the cultivation of cauliflower, focusing on the cost of cultivation and the benefit-cost (B:C) ratio. The experiment was conducted at technology park CTAE, MPUAT, Udaipur during Rabi season 2021-22 under controlled conditions, where different treatments involving sole and combined application of organic manures (FYM and vermicompost) and four levels of panchagavya were evaluated on cauliflower crop with three replications under factorial RBD design. The analysis involved calculating the total cost of cultivation, including inputs, labour, and other variable costs, and comparing these costs with the net returns obtained from the crop yield. The B ratio was then determined to assess the profitability of each treatment. Result showed that among organic manures application of OM3 treatment (50% RDN through FYM and 50% RDN through vermicompost) as soil application was found recorded maximum net return of Rs. 174791.08. Among different levels of panchagavya, application at 5% concentration as foliar spray gave maximum net return of Rs. 164587.74. The interactive effect of organic manures and panchagavya on net return showed that the combined application of OM3 + PG2 (50 per cent FYM + 50 per cent RDN through Vermicompost + 5 per cent Panchagavya) gave maximum net return of Rs. 206075.16 from cauliflower crop and The combined effect of organic manures and panchagavya on B:C ratio showed that the combined application of OM0 + PG2 (control + 5 per cent Panchagavya) gave maximum B:C ratio of 2.90.

Personal, socio-economic and psychological characteristics of coconut growers

Mohith K, C Narayanaswamy

The present study to know the personal, socio-economic and psychological characteristics of randomly selected 120 coconut growers from Tiptur, Turuvekere, Chikkanayakanahalli and Sira taluks of Tumkur district was conducted during the year 2022-23. Overall it was found that equal number of coconut growers (42.50 %) were in the old and middle age group respectively, while significant number of coconut growers (37.50 %) were having education upto high school, two-third of coconut growers (69.16 %) were found under the category of medium family size, while two-fifth of coconut growers (40.00 %) came under big farmers category followed by 39.16 per cent under the small farmers category and more than two-fifth of coconut growers (46.66 %) possessed medium level of farming experience. Overall it was found that significant number of coconut growers (44.20 %) belonged to medium category of information seeking behaviour, more than two-fifth of coconut growers (43.33 %) came under medium category of extension participation, two-fifth of coconut growers (40.00 %) belonged to medium category of management orientation. Among the overall coconut growers, it was disclosed that significant number of coconut growers i.e., 46.67 per cent were found equally under the medium category of risk orientation, credit orientation, innovativeness. Overall it was found that slightly more than two-fifth of coconut growers (41.67 %) were having medium level of deferred gratification, significant number of coconut growers (46.67 %) belonged to medium category of scientific orientation and significant number of coconut growers (44.17 %) belonged to medium category of cosmopoliteness.

Analysis of Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Urban Heat Island (HUI) Effect in Shantou City based on Landsat Images

Manqi Chen, Ruei-Yuan Wang

With the continuous strengthening of China's economic strength and the acceleration of urbanization, a series of urban ecological problems have also emerged, among which Urban Heat Island (UHI) is one of the more serious issues. This article takes Shantou City as the research object, based on Landsat series satellite images, uses the radiative transfer equation algorithm (atmospheric correction method) to invert the surface temperature of Shantou City, and uses the mean standard deviation method to classify the heat island effect of surface temperature. The results indicate that the area of UHI effect in Shantou is continuously increasing, and there is a phenomenon of transition from low-temperature areas to high-temperature areas. From 2008 to 2021, the UHI area in Shantou exhibited a spatiotemporal variation pattern of scattered, contiguous, and diffusive transfer.

Genetic Diversity of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas (L.) Lam) Accessions from Nigeria and Niger Based on Agro-Morphological

Utmost tropical nations regard the sweet potato( Ipomoea batatas(L.) Lam.) as their most significant chief crop. It's substantially privileged for its capability to deter disaster, improvement, and produce with many inputs. A study was carried out during the 2020 and 2021 growing time seasons in a field trial conducted at the University of Ebonyi State – CAS , to determine variability among sweet potato accessions, and identify traits that are positively and significantly associated with yield and accessions with high yield. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used to determine variability among sweet potato accessions, The results of both years combined statistical analysis indicated that the types significantly varied in terms of all yield and yield- related traits. As a result, the Umu SPO 3 acquired had the topmost values of average root storage in both the 2020 (5.2 cm) and 2021 (2.4 cm) growing seasons. In both 2020 and 2021 growing seasons and over time combined analysis, the haughtiest average root yield (2.67 Kg), and total root yield(8.89 t/ ha) were recorded for Koudakou. PCV was advanced than GCV suggesting a major environmental influence on those characters. Low heritability coupled with high, moderate, and low inheritable advance in percent of mean was observed in all characters. Traits considered in the study revealed positive and significant correlations. The grouping of accessions into two main clusters highlights genetic relationships among them. Understanding these relationships can help breeders identify potential parent lines for cross-breeding, which can lead to the development of new varieties with desirable traits.

Effect of special horticultural practices on physical and chemical parameters in fruit of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Ratna

The investigation was conducted on mango at College of Horticulture, Dapoli, Dist. Ratnagiri (MS) during the year 2020-21 to assess the effect of special horticultural practices on physical and chemical parameters in fruit of mango (Mangifera indica L.) cv. Ratna. The experiment was laid out in RBD with three replications and ten treatments viz; girdling on first fortnight of October (T1), girdling on first fortnight of November (T2), girdling on first fortnight of October and November (T3), girdling on first fortnight of October and tip pruning (T4), girdling on first fortnight of November and tip pruning (T5), girdling on first fortnight of October and November and tip pruning (T6), tip pruning (T7), removal of new shoots below old shoot (T8), smudging (T9) and control (T10). Treatment girdling on first fortnight of October and November and tip pruning resulted highest fruit weight, fruit length, fruit diameter, pulp weight, pulp stone ratio at harvest stage and ripe stage. The chemical parameter TSS, reducing sugar, total sugar, acidity, pH and ascorbic acid were non-significant at both stages.

Effect of International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) on Community-Based Development Programme on Rural Livelihood in Katsina State, Nigeria

Muntaka M., Ibrahim M., Ali A.

Rural development is a veritable tool for fighting poverty and achieving economic prosperity at the grassroots level. The major thrust of this study was to examine the effect of IFAD Community-Based Agricultural and Rural Development Programme on Rural Livelihood in Katsina State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study described the socio- economic characteristics of respondents; identified and described the basic infrastructure provided; determined the effect of infrastructure provided on livelihood of respondents; determined the satisfaction level with the infrastructure provided in the communities and identified and described the constraints to effective performance of IFAD-CBARDP in the study area. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit primary data from 278 respondents. Secondary data were the baseline data of IFAD-CBARDP. Descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test) were utilized for analyses. The findings revealed that, majorities (51%) of respondents were males, with average age of 40 years. About 97% were married, having a household size of between 5-10 persons, with about 68% of the respondent having an educational attainment of primary and secondary school. The result revealed that IFAD-CBARDP had impacted significantly (P 0.1) on the income of respondents at 10% level of probability. The programme had also recorded an increase in the number of assets and employment opportunities provided, after the first phase of the Programme implementation. Satisfaction level of respondents with the infrastructure provided was generally satisfactory. Nevertheless, low level of awareness, cultural factors and inadequate capital were the major constraints to effective performance of the Programme. It is therefore recommended that IFAD-CBARDP should be replicated in other Local Government Areas of the State for wider livelihood improvement. Programme planners and implementers should intensify awareness creation among rural dwellers and adopt the use of Community Driven Development approach (CDD) in the execution of Rural Development projects with poverty alleviation thrust as in the case of IFAD-CBARDP.

Direct sowing-Alternate Method of Transplanting Rice

Dr. M. Ganga Devi, Dr. M. Yugandhar Kumar, Dr. Shaik. N. Meera

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the major food crop in terms of production and economy and grown in all ecological regions of India. Rice is cultivated traditionally through transplanting of 20-25 days old seedling in the country. Due to unavailability of suitable technology for rice cultivation, there is a huge yield gap in rice production. Country has made target of self-sufficiency in rice production. This target can be achieved through adoption of Direct seeded rice cultivation technology of rice cultivation which also helps to adapt in the climate change scenario. Due to issues of water scarcity and expensive labour, direct seeded rice cultivation technology is adopting worldwide. To study the direct sowing of rice to overcome the difficulty of scarce and costly labor in transplanted rice, KVK Guntur has conducted an OFT in Guntur district. The study was carried out in two villages of Guntur district namely Morampudi and Kanteru villages in the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. From each selected village, 5 farmers practicing DSR and 5 farmers practicing Conventional Transplanting method during the same season were selected. The average yield was considerably high in TR (67 qtl/ha) compared to DSR (66 qtl/ha) method of cultivation. The total cost of cultivation in DSR was estimated to be Rs.47,000 per hectare. The total cost of cultivation in TR was estimated to be Rs. 53,000 per hectare. DSR with suitable conservation practices has potential to produce slightly lower or comparable yields as that of TPR and appears to be a viable alternative to overcome the problem of labor and water shortage. Despite controversies, if properly managed, comparable yield may be obtained from DSR compared with TPR.

Performance Analysis of Front-Line Demonstrations on Green Gram (Vigna Radiate l.) in Jodhpur District of Western Rajasthan

Manmohan Puniya, Desh Raj Choudhary

Pulses being rich in quality protein, minerals and vitamins are inseparable ingredients of diet of majority of indian population. Despite high nutritive value of pulses and their role in sustainable agriculture desired growth rate in production could not be witnessed. The domestic production of pulses is consistently below the targets and actual domestic requirements are also higher, due to this pulses are being imported. The Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Jodhpur-II (Phalodi) has carried out frontline demonstrations on greengram crop varieties GM-6 and IPM 205-7 covering an area of 30 ha of farmer's field to exhibit latest production technologies and compared it with farmer's practice. The study in total 50 frontline demonstrations were conducted on farmer's fields in villages viz. Kali-mali and Baori of Jodhpur district of Rajasthan state during 2020 and 2022, to demonstrate production potential and economic benefit of improved technologies comprising sowing method, nutrient management and chemical weed management and adoption of whole package of practices for crop. After sowing of seed, application of weedicide Imazethapyr 10SL as early post emergence at 50 gm a.i. per ha in 500 liters of water used for effective control of the weeds during kharif season in rainfed condition. The findings of the study revealed that the demonstrated technology recorded a mean yield of 687 kg/ha which was 23.7 % higher than obtained with farmers practices (555 kg/ha). Higher mean net income of Rs. 31285/ha with a Benefit:cost ratio of 3.05 was obtained with improved technologies in comparison to farmers practices (24710).The frontline demonstrations conducted on greengram crop at farmer’s field revealed that the adoption of improved technologies significantly increased the yield as well as yield attributing traits of crop and also the net neturns higher than the farmer’s practices. So, there is a need to disseminate the improved technologies among the farmers with effective extension methods like training and demonstrations. The farmers should be encouraged to adopt the recommended package of practices realizing for higher returns.

Rethinking Food Processing for a Sustainable Future: A Review of Innovative Nonthermal Technologies

Muneeba Naseer Chaudhary, Mudassar Hussain, Waleed AL-Ansi, Wei Luo

Agricultural innovation offers a solution to mounting pressures on the global food system, which must provide safe, nutritious, and environmentally sustainable consumable goods at increasing volumes if demands are to be met. The potential of nonthermal technologies as promising alternatives to conventional thermal treatments for sustainable food processing and preservation is discussed in this review. Here we investigate four of such emerging nonthermal technologies that include High-Pressure Processing (HPP), Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) and Irradiation, and Cold Plasma. This blog takes a deeper dive into its principles, use cases, and pros and cons. On the other hand, nonthermal technologies are energy-sparing, improve the nutritional quality of food products, and reduce loss due to processing but above all provide improved environmental performance. The energy-saving potential of these technologies can be large, while maintaining food in its original nutritive and sensory shape but with extended shelf life and lower carbon footprint. Nevertheless, scalability, cost-efficacy regulatory approval, consumer acceptance (Diaz-Ruiz Pletsch Concordet; Chellaram Barragan Maheswari), integration with the reference’s infrastructure, or optimized process parameters are themselves challenging. Developing a solution to these challenges and promoting nonthermal processing technologies are strategic priorities that will be critical for future food production... With time, advances in research and developments of this important field would give rise to the wide-scale application of nonthermal processing This review aims to provide a full overview of potential benefits entailed by each innovative technique along with its limitations as well as informing stakeholders and future directions.

Review on Effect of various feed additives on Pig production performance

This review provides an exhaustive examination of the efficacy and mechanisms of action of various feed additives in pig diets, including acidifiers, essential oils, prebiotics, probiotics, and feed enzymes. The additives' impact on growth performance, gut health, and antibiotic reduction is critically evaluated. The review elucidates the additives' mechanisms of action, encompassing antimicrobial activity, immune modulation, and nutrient digestion enhancement. A meta-analysis of the additives' effects on growth performance metrics, including average daily gain and gain-to-feed ratio, is presented. The review highlights the necessity for further research to optimize additive usage and elucidate their effects on pig production. Additionally, the importance of tailoring diets to meet the specific needs of young pigs and promoting gut health and development is emphasized. This comprehensive review synthesizes the current state of knowledge on feed additives in pig diets, providing valuable insights for researchers, producers, and industry stakeholders.

Genetic diversity of Yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) Strains by using RAPD Marker

Pawar A.S., Kunvar Gyanendra Kumar, R.P. Singh

The term ‘wine’ is applied to the product made by the alcoholic fermentation by yeast in which the sugars are converted into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Genetic similarity was calculated using Jaccard’s similarity coefficient and cluster analysis revealed two major clusters. The diversity at molecular level was analyzed with elucidian distance of 0.40. Out of ten wine yeast strains studied at molecular level, two strains showed maximum similarity i.e. 79 % between them viz. NCIM 3045 and 3200. Genetic diversity was analyzed based on data obtained by 11 RAPD primers. Most of the primers were found 85.71 to 100% polymorphic in nature.

Practice of compost use in urban farming: Opportunities and constraints in the West Region, Cameroon

Moye Eric Kongnso

Urban agriculture is an ancient economic activity that sustains urban livelihoods. Composting as an alternative method of waste treatment and compost use in urban farming has led to sustainable practices. This paper sets to examine the opportunities and barriers of compost use under the lens of the Social Practice theory. Adopting a mixed methods approach, data was collected during a questionnaire survey of 265 households purposively selected from the urban and peri-urban quarters, eleven (11) in-depth interviews with stakeholders and a focus group discussion with compost users. Quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed statistically using SPSS while qualitative data from interviews and focus group were treated using content and thematic analysis with the help of Atlas.ti. Findings revealed that compost use practices are favored by the availability of compost and technical assistance provided to farmers. Municipal compost production has increased from 60tons to 600tons per year over a period of 10 years and private composting is greatly improved. Nevertheless, small scale famers have constraints which are technical, experience and knowledge, financial, institutional and policies. Farmers in the peripheries (45%) tend to compare compost with mineral fertilizers and are reluctant to change their old practices. State extension services promote mineral fertilizers over compost but farmer-to-farmer experience sharing has informed practices. The existing regulatory landscape has not encouraged compost use and traditional practices persist. Adopting sustainable practices require policies that prioritize compost use.

Feasibility of Winter Oyster- Milky Mushroom Cropping Sequence for Year-Round Production under Assam Condition

Madhusmita Kataky, D. N. Kalita, M. Neog, R. K. Sarma

The study was carried out during kharif and rabi season of 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 at 20 numbers of farmers field having low technology mushroom house at different locations of Assam. Existing farmers practice ie. growing of winter Oyster Mushroom alone from October to February under which farmers can grow two crops per year , was taken as control for comparision of farmer’s income with tested practice that is Winter Mushroom followed by Summer Mushroom Cropping sequence . The specific objective of the study was to demonstrate the double cropping of Mushroom Farming viz. Winter Oyster Mushroom followed by Milky Mushroom. The study showed that under the tested double cropping sequence, five crops comprising three crops for Winter Mushroom (September to March)and two crops for Summer Milky Mushroom (April to August)can be grown per year. It was observed that in a 15 feet X 18 feet low technology mushroom house, 400 bags per batch can be accommodate. The winter Oyster and Milky Mushroom cropping system produced the average winter Oyster yield of 2931.6kg per year from 3 batches (400 bags/batch)and an average Milky Mushroom yield of 1240kg from 2batches (five batches in a year)compared to an average yield of 1320kg per year from 2 batches in a year (400 bags per batch) obtained at farmers practice. The percentage yield increase of Winter Oyster – Milky Mushroom cropping sequence (average of three years) over farmers practice was recorded as 216%. The economic analysis showed that growing Milky Mushroom during summer season enhance additional income to the growers who usually grow winter oyster mushroom as single crop for 5 months. Hence growing Winter Oyster Mushroom – Milky Mushroom crop sequence for the year round is a potential income generating enterprise which can be adopted by farmers and unemployment youth of Assam.

A Review on Solar Powered Maize Dehusker cum Sheller for Sustainable Agriculture

Ankita Shinde, D. S. Karale, P. K. Sahoo

Maize (Zea mays) in India ranks third in total production and productivity and fifth in total area. Since last one decade, maize cultivation area is continuously increasing to encounter the rising demand in the world. Shelling is one of the most important post harvesting operation which is used to separate the grains from ear heads and prepare its quality for the market. Maize grain harvesting consist of the dehusking operation for removal of outer cover and shelling operation for separations of grains from ear heads. This review aims to collate and present an overview of design, fabrication, and performance of a maize dehusker cum sheller consisting of feed hopper with a flow rate control device, dehusking unit, shelling unit, cleaning unit and power system. The performance of the machine was evaluated in terms of throughput capacity, dehusking efficiency, shelling efficiency, cleaning efficiency and mechanical damage. Solar power is ideally used in India due to location factor and also gives the benefit to the environment as renewable energy. Solar power operated maize dehusker cum sheller gives a significance in many rural locations of most developing countries were grid connected electricity is either unavailable or unreliable or too expensive so using of solar power is beneficial.

Coconut Oil Salve from Gamal Tree Leaves (Gliricidia sepium) as an Alternative Treatment for Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Cattle

Euis Nia Setiawati, Aang Hasanudin, Vony Armelia

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) is an infectious skin disease caused by the Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), posing a significant threat to cattle and buffalo farming. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of a salve made from gamal tree (Gliricidia sepium) leaves and coconut oil for the treatment of LSD in cattle. The study is divided into two parts: 1) the production of Gamal Leaf Oil Salve (SMDG), involving the collection of gamal leaves and the creation of a salve by mixing gamal leaves with coconut oil; and 2) the application of SMDG to cattle exposed to LSD with three concentrations: 1) 50%: 500 grams of gamal leaves in 1 liter of coconut oil (SMDG 50%); 2) 75%: 750 grams of gamal leaves in 1 liter of coconut oil (SMDG 75%); 3) 100%: 1000 grams of gamal leaves in 1 liter of coconut oil (SMDG 100%). The data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, and significant differences among treatments were further analyzed using Mann-Whitney comparisons. The results of the study indicate that the application of Gamal Leaf Oil Salve (SMDG) with a concentration of 100% resulted in the highest recovery compared to concentrations of 75% and 50% for cattle exposed to LSD. Nodules began to flatten, and ulcers started to dry on the seventh day (Day 7), where in Experiments S2 and S3, the results were relatively similar with sizes ranging from 1 to 1.5 cm, which was better than in S1 where nodule size was 1.5 to 2 cm. A concentration of 100% SMDG is safe for use as a botanical antiviral and can reduce nodule size and dry ulcers in the treatment of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) after 14 days of application.

Price Behaviour of Tomato in Major Markets of Nagpur District

Vedika S. Deshmukh, Dr. N. V. Shende, Dr. S. C. Nagpure

This research undertakes a comprehensive analysis of trends, variability, and seasonal fluctuations in arrivals and prices as well as the interrelationship between arrivals and prices of selected vegetable in kalamna, kalmeshwar and kamthi Markets of Nagpur District, Maharashtra for the year (2014-2023) by utilizing secondary data sourced from the website (www.agmarknet.nic.in).An analysis of market arrivals and prices of Tomato reveals a positive trend in arrivals and prices across all the three Nagpur District markets, Although statistical significance was only observed in two markets excluding kalamna market. Highest variability in Tomato arrivals i.e 82.04 was recorded in kamthi APMC, Nagpur while Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Market Yard, Kalamna, Nagpur saw the highest price variability i.e 86.30. In contrast lowest variability in Tomato arrival i.e 62.84 was recorded in Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Market Yard ,Kalamna, Nagpur and lowest price variability i.e 80.20 was observed in kamthi APMC, Nagpur. Highest seasonal indices for Tomato arrivals and prices observed in December and October at Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru Market Yard, kalamna, Nagpur. March and July at kalmeshwar APMC, Nagpur and December and July at kamthi APMC, Nagpur. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between arrivals and prices of Tomato in the Nagpur markets except for kalmeshwar market which shows positive correlation.

Ethnoveterinary Practice May be an Alternative to Antibiotics in Dairy Cattle

Dr. N. B. Shridhar

Ethnoveterinary practices in India have their origins in ancient times, characterized by the transmission of indigenous knowledge, beliefs, and skills related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of diseases in both animals and humans. These practices, preserved and refined over generations, have evolved into cost-effective alternatives to conventional medicine, particularly benefiting small-scale farmers. In contemporary veterinary medicine, the integration of ethnoveterinary practices presents a viable strategy for reducing the overreliance on antibiotics. These traditional methods not only support growth and productivity in livestock but also offer effective solutions for the prevention and treatment of common animal diseases. The adoption of such practices holds significant potential in addressing the escalating threat of multidrug-resistant pathogens. Many such plant based remedies are there in veterinary practice that can be used as a preliminary alternative to antibiotic use in primary health care of the animals. However, to fully harness the benefits of ethnoveterinary medicine, further research is needed to validate these practices, including studies on dosage, duration, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicity patterns including residual effects as they also do contain potent active principles.

Effect of Nitrogen Management on Microbial Population After Harvest of Maize (Zea mays L.) in typic haplustepts of Rajasthan

Ramdas Meena, S. C. Meena, Gajanand Jat

The field experiment was conducted during the kharif season of 2018-19 at the Instructional Farm (Agronomy) of the Rajasthan College of Agriculture in Udaipur, situated at an altitude of 579.5 meters above sea level, with coordinates 24º34’ latitude and 73º42’ longitude. This region falls under agro-climatic zone IVa (Subhumid Southern Plain and Aravalli Hills) of Rajasthan. The results indicated that the highest populations of bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes in the soil were observed under treatment T11, which involved 100% recommended dose of nitrogen from chemical fertilizers combined with 10 tons of FYM per hectare. This was followed by T3 (75% RDN from chemical fertilizers and 25% RDN from poultry manure), T2 (75% RDN from chemical fertilizers and 25% RDN from enriched compost), T4 (75% RDN from chemical fertilizers and 25% RDN from vermicompost), and T12 (100% RDN from chemical fertilizers), consistent across both years and in the pooled analysis.

FT-IR and GC-MS characterization of bioactive compounds from the root extract of Anacyclus pyrethrum Linn

Dr. S. P. Anand, R. Nagalakshmi, S. Karthick, S. Vanathi

Medicinal plants have long been considered for their ability to treat various human diseases owing to their potent phytochemical properties. However, isolating lead compounds from complex mixtures requires extensive knowledge, specialized equipment, and expertise. The emergence of novel diseases underscores the importance of accurately documenting the research on medicinal plants. This study focused on Anacyclus pyrethrum (L.) Lag, an ingredient in Kabasurakudineer. Although traditional and experimental evidence supports various claims regarding these plants, thorough evaluation and utilization of their potential are still necessary. Further research is required to elucidate the mode of action of these isolates. The primary objective of this study was to identify the bioactive compounds in the ethanolic root extract of Anacyclus pyrethrum using Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). FTIR analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl groups, alcohols, carboxylic acids, aromatic compounds, nitro compounds, alkyl halides, and aryl halides with major peaks at 3740.03, 3281.04, 2903.30, 1612.69, 1402.96, 1242.33, 1023.12, 658.19, and 582.88, respectively, indicating phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. GC-MS analysis identified 60 compounds, with the major constituents being 4-Decadienamide, N-Isobutyl-, (E, E)-, and (2e,4e)-N-Isobutyldodeca-2,4-Dienamide, constituting 23.03% and 17.33% of the extract, respectively. This study confirmed that the roots of Anacyclus pyrethrum (L.) contain significant natural chemical compounds, validating its traditional use in various pharmacological activities.

Plant based mounting materials use for spinning during seed crop rearing by Adopted Seed Rearers (ASRs)

Amardev Singh

Adopted Seed Rearers (ASRs) or P1 seed farmers use locally accessible plants as mounting materials for mounting the matured silkworms under the study they used viz., Dodonaea viscosa, Malotus philipansis, Bambusa nutans, Eucalyptus globulus. Based on the data analysis, significant difference was found when the matured silkworms were mounted on plastic collapsible mountages, which resulted in the highest cocoon yield per 100 dfls (85.45 Kg) and also number of cocoons per kg.

Biological control of fall armyworm Sopdoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) by using the pheromone Z7-dodecenyl acetate, Z11-hexadecenyl acetate, Z9-tetradecenyl acetate

Assiénin Hauverset N’Guessan, Achi Laurent N’Cho, Hugues Annicet N’Da

With an energy value of 86 kcal/100 g to 386 kcal/100 g, maize is a staple food for many people. In Côte d'Ivoire, maize is grown mainly in the north of the country, where it is an enormous source of income for the local population. However, maize cultivation is severely limited by parasitic constraints that affect the organoleptic quality and production of maize. These include the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, whose damage can cause up to 73% of yield losses. Today, in a sustainable agriculture and food security context, biological control constitutes an essential element. The aim of this study was to carry out biological control of the fall armyworm using the pheromones Z7-dodecenyl acetate, Z11-hexadecenyl acetate, Z9-tetradecenyl acetate. The study was carried out at the maize, millet and sorghum research station of the Centre National de Recherche Agronomique in Ferkessédougou in the north of the country. The experimental design was a total randomization, with four (4) plots containing the pheromone and one control plot. Three (3) vegetative stages of the EV 8728 maize variety sown, were monitored. The results showed a high average number of S. frugiperda adults caught (129 adults), with a low infestation rate (19.42%) and a high average number of other insects caught (162 insects caught) at phenological stage 2 of the maize. Maize yields in plots containing the pheromone ranged from 6.13 tons/ha to 6.27 tons/ha, around twice that of the control plot, which was 3.03 tons/ha. This pheromone can therefore be used to combat the fall armyworm.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on the Growth and Yield of Capsicum (Capsicum annuum L.)

Talvinder Kaur, Ashutosh Sharma, Sonika Sharma, Neha Sharma, Shivam Sharma

An experiment was conducted in the experimental Farm of DAV University, Jalandhar during kharif, 2023 to assess the combined effect of plant growth regulators and varieties on growth and yield of capsicum. The experiment comprised of four treatments of plant growth regulators, (G0 = No growth regulator (control), G1= GA3 @ 50 ppm, G2= SA @ 50 ppm, G3= MeJa @ 2mM) and three varieties (V1=PSM-1, V2= F1- hybrid, V3= Orobelle) was replicated thrice and laid out in Randomized Block Design. Among plant growth regulators, maximum growth and yield parameters were observed in GA3 @ 50 ppm. Among the varieties, V1= PSM-1 were recorded to be the best regarding growth and yield parameters. For combined effect, G1V1 gave the highest growth and yield and G0V3 gave the lowest growth and yield. The highest gross return, net returns and cost benefit ratio was significantly observed in T1 (GA3 @ 50ppm × PSM-1) following by in T5 (GA3 × F1- hybrid). So, 50 ppm GA3 may be used for capsicum cultivation.

Effect of Different Sources of Phosphorus on Nutrient Content and Uptake by Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Suraj Kumar, R.H. Meena, D.P. Singh, Vinod Saharan, Hemant Swami

A field experiment entitled “Effect of Different Sources of Phosphorus on Productivity of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and Soil Properties” was conducted during Rabi season of 2023-24 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan). The experiment included nine phosphorus sources treatments (SSP, RP with and without PSB). The experiment was set up in a randomized block design with three replications. Application of 75% RDP through SSP +25% RDP through RP + PSB (T7) significantly increased nutrient content and uptake (N, P and K) by chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and recorded highest nutrient content and uptake over control.

Assessment of Carbon Reserves in Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province, Using the InVEST Model

Na Wang, Zhixiao Lu, Fengyi Song, Xiaojin Cui, Xin Kang, Ruei-Yuan Wang

This study depends on the dynamic index of land use change and land transfer matrix, as well as the carbon module in the InVEST model. The features of land use change and carbon reserve change in Nanchang city from 2001 to 2021 were investigated, and the influence of land use change on carbon reserve was identified. The results show that, from 2001 to 2021, the area of cultivated land, water area, grassland, and bare land in Nanchang City decreased while the area of construction land and forest land increased. Under the influence of land use changes, the high-value areas of carbon reserves are mostly distributed in forest areas, including the northwest and southeast parts of Nanchang, whereas the low-value areas are mostly distributed in urban construction areas, including the central part of Nanchang, which is consistent with the current situation of urban land types. Overall, the carbon reserves of Nanchang City decreased from 2001 to 2021, primarily due to the decrease of cultivated land and the increase of construction land.

Effect of Paclobutrazol and α-naphthaleneacetic acid on Growth and Yield of Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) In Tropical Regions

Fikri Priatna Meliana, Mochamad Roviq, Eko Widaryanto

Zucchini is one of Cucurbitaceae family with a lot of vitamins and benefical for boosting immune system, preventing cancer risk and preventing inflammation. In Indonesia cultivation zucchini less than optimal so that it is necessary to apply cultivation techniques that can increase production zucchini. This Research to study effect of α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and various concentrations of paclobutrazol (PBZ) on growth and yield zucchini. The Experiments was a factorial experiment using split plot design with two factor, first factor was NAA with 2 treatment levels (with and without apply NAA) and the second factor was the concentration with 5 treatment levels (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 ppm). The observation data results were analysis of variance (ANOVA) and continued least significant difference (LSD) at 5% error level. The results showed that significant effect of NAA and PBZ on growth and yield of zucchini. There was can inhibit the vegetative organs like plant length, leaf area and stem length. Beside that, there were increasing the generative organs in the parameters number of fruits, fruit length, diameter fruit, fresh fruit weight and fruit weight per plant, harvest index and partition biomass. Effect of PBZ especially at higher concentrations can inhibited plant growth while enhancing fruit quality, where was NAA demonstrated potential in optimizing fruit development through hormonal regulation. In conclusion, the interaction of PBZ and NAA was found to influence not only zucchini fruit morphology but providing into the regulation of growth and quality in horticultural crops.

Survey and Effects of Weather Parameters on Powdery Mildew of Black Gram Caused by Erysiphe Polygoni DC

Sakshi Meena, Mahendra Kumar Meena, R.N. Bunker

Surveys were conducted during kharif 2018 in ten villages viz., Gandholi, Noorda, Joonawas, Odwariya, Banora, Malpur, Panarwa, Oda, Khandiovri and Sundara of four tehsil’s (Mavli, Salumbar, Jhadol and Kherwara) of Udaipur district. The maximum (54.67%) disease incidence was recorded in Joonawas village (Mavli tehsil) with 43.22% disease severity while, minimum incidence 25.40% with 19.54% severity from Malpur village (Salumber tehsil). Study of weather parameters in relation to powdery mildew development revealed that, the maximum disease severity (8.67-58%) was found during July 30- Sept 2, 2018. During this period the maximum temperature (29.1-30.5˚c), minimum temperature (22-22.9˚c), maximum relative humidity (82.6-85.1%), minimum relative humidity (58.6-78.3%), sunshine (1.2-3.6 hours) and rainfall (17.4-67.6 mm) was favoured for powdery mildew development.

Estimation of rice area in KWD region using geospatial tools

M. Sri Surya, M. Sunil Kumar, K. Anny Mrudhula, T. V. Sridhar, M. Pradeep Kumar

The estimation of crop areas was recognized as crucial for assessing agricultural production, supporting food security, and guiding policy decisions. In India, rice cultivation was particularly significant, especially in Andhra Pradesh, where remote sensing technologies like Landsat 9 improved the accuracy of mapping and monitoring crop areas compared to traditional field survey methods. These advancements helped optimize resource allocation, enhance market forecasting, and detect shifts in cropping patterns. The study aimed to estimate rice area in the KWD region during the kharif season of 2023 using geospatial tools. A combination of satellite imagery and ground truth data was employed. Landsat 9 data were utilized to estimate rice areas during the kharif season, and this data was processed using ENVI software. The Random Forest classification method was applied to distinguish rice areas, achieving an overall accuracy of 94.3% with a Kappa coefficient of 0.81, indicating almost perfect agreement. The total rice area in the study region was estimated at 127,565 ha, with the largest area recorded in Bapatla (12,299 ha) and the smallest in Pedanandipadu (3 ha). A 4.4% underestimation was observed when compared to the Department of Agriculture (DoA) statistics, which reported 133,402 ha.

Assessing the Introduction of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) into Ghana: The Perspectives of Agriculture Professionals in Northern Region

Mutiu Badmus, Muhammed Charmawla Abubakar, Baasit Abdul Zakari

The role of agriculture officers is essential and cannot be ignored when introducing technology such as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). However, there is no known study presently that examines agriculture officers’ perspectives of GMOs emergence in Ghana. Our study assesses agriculture officers’ perceptions on the introduction of GMOs into Ghana and its impact on food and seed security as well as officer’s level of involvement in GMOs related activities and willingness to promote it. We further solicited their views on GMOs as a successful solution to tackle farming challenges and assessed what influenced their views. Our findings revealed that 53% of agriculture officers agreed that GMOs will have positive impact on food/ seed security/sovereignty. Also, 56% said they will champion GMOs, however, 67% said there is limited information on GMOs and 74% of the respondents indicated that they have never attended or participated in GMOs related activity. We highlighted officers’ divergent views around the introduction of GMOs as a successful solution to tackle farming challenges and the key influencers include: GMOs is unsafe for human consumption, gene escape into wild relatives, and possibility of creating insect resistant and limited capacity to genetically engineered crops locally. The study recommended that there is the need for pro and anti-GMO groups to involve officers in GMO activities for effective dissemination of information on GMO to farmers or citizens.

Analysis of Spatiotemporal Changes and Driving Forces of Vegetation Coverage in Foshan City, Guangdong Province

Yongzhong Yang, Ruei-Yuan Wang

Quantitative analysis of the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics and driving forces of regional fractional vegetation coverage (FVC) is of great significance for promoting urban ecological protection and high-quality development. This study utilized the GEE platform and Landsat series remote sensing data to invert the FVC of Foshan City from 2001 to 2020 based on a pixel binary model. The spatial pattern and spatiotemporal variation characteristics were analyzed, and combined with meteorological, topographic, and land use data of the same period in the region, Sen +Mann Kendall trend analysis and parameter optimal geographic detector model were used to analyze its driving factors. The results showed that: 1. From 2001 to 2020, the overall vegetation coverage showed a slight downward trend (with a reduction rate of 2.87%), and the average vegetation coverage over the years was 51.53%, indicating that the vegetation coverage in the study area was generally at a moderate level. In terms of spatial distribution, the overall vegetation coverage shows a pattern of "high in the northwest and low in the southeast," with significant regional differences, and the types are mainly moderate and low vegetation coverage. 2. The proportion of vegetation improvement areas in the research area is 49.53%, which is larger than the area of degraded areas. 3. In the detection of driving factors, land use type is the main driving factor with an average explanatory power of 61.25%, while vegetation, topography, precipitation, and altitude are secondary driving factors; The explanatory power (Q value) of the interaction between each factor is higher than that of a single factor, showing a synergistic and nonlinear enhancement relationship between two factors.

Evaluation of Botanical - Insecticide modules against stem borer, brown planthopper and natural enemies in rice

Anand Kumar A D V S L P, Nanda Kishore M, Srinivasa Rao N, Lalitha D, Srinivas T

Field experiment was conducted at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Maruteru, West Godavari (A.P.) during fourrabi seasons of 2019-20to 2022-23 to evaluate botanical-insecticide modules against stem borer and brown planthopper. Significantly superior results were recorded in insecticides alone module, T4 (Chlorantraniliprole 0.4 G @ 1.0 g m-2, Cartap hydrochloride 50% SC @ 2.0 g l-1, Triflumezopyrim 10% SC @ 0.48 ml l-1 applied at 25, 45 and 60 DAT respectively) with 50% ROC, 33% ROC in dead hearts and white ears, respectively in case of stem borer and 94% ROC in brown planthopper population and registered the highest grain yield.Among botanical – insecticide modules, treatment, T2 (Azadirachtin 10000 ppm @ 2.0 ml l-1, Neem oil @ 10.0 ml l-1 and Triflumezopyrim 10% SC @ 0.48 ml l-1 applied at 25, 45 and 60 DAT respectively) is the best against stem borer (26% ROC in dead heart damage & 13% ROC in white ear damage) and brown planthopper (91% ROC in brown planthopper population). Further, T2 is at par with insecticides alone module (T4) in managing stem borer and BPH and recorded the grain yield (6718 kg ha-1) on par with the insecticides alone module (6824 kg ha-1).

Impact of plant parasitic nematodes & its management in Mulberry (Morus sp.) cultivation in India— A Review

Tanvi Rahman, Sahil Rahman, Kishan Kumar R, Jashwanth S

Mulberry (Morus sp.), a vital crop for India's silk industry, faces significant yield reductions (10-30%) due to plant parasitic nematodes. Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) are primary pests, compromising plant health and leaf quality. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of nematode diversity, damage, and management strategies in Indian mulberry cultivation. The review elucidates the impact of nematode infestations on mulberry growth, yield, and quality, highlighting the need for effective management. Chemical, biological, and cultural methods are evaluated for their efficacy and sustainability. Chemical treatments, while effective, pose environmental and health risks, emphasizing the need for alternative approaches. Biological control agents, such as Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens, show promise in managing nematode populations. Cultural practices like crop rotation, soil solarization, and resistant cultivars are also discussed. Integrated management strategies, combining multiple approaches, are recommended for optimal results.

Effect of Cooking Treatments on Drying Kinetics, Polyphenols Content and Antioxidant Activity of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato

Aya Kamal, Hazem Golshany

This study examines the effects of boiling, steaming, and microwaving on the drying kinetics, total polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant activity, and total carotenoid content (TCC) of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP), a vital source of beta-carotene for combating vitamin A deficiency. Results indicate that steaming preserved the highest TPC at 4.28 mg GAE/g DW, while microwaving yielded the highest TCC at 527.35 µg BCE/g DW. Antioxidant activity, measured via DPPH radical scavenging, was significantly enhanced by steaming (3.48 μmol TE/g DW) and microwaving (3.29 μmol TE/g DW) compared to boiling (1.40 μmol TE/g DW). The drying kinetics followed the Page model, demonstrating a strong fit (R² > 0.9988) across treatments, highlighting the complex moisture loss behaviors influenced by cooking methods. Boiling resulted in a 51% reduction in TPC due to leaching, while both steaming and microwaving significantly increased antioxidant activity despite some degradation of phenolic compounds during microwaving. These findings underscore the importance of cooking methods in optimizing the nutritional value of OFSP, providing practical recommendations for food preparation to enhance health benefits and address vitamin A deficiency in vulnerable populations.

Comparative Analysis of Nutritional Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Organically and Chemically Cultivated Garlic (Allium sativum)

Mayank Phate, Anil Kumar Yadav, Vikas Choudhary

Garlic (Allium sativum) is renowned for its culinary uses and medicinal properties, attributed to its bioactive compounds such as allicin and protein. Organic farming practices have been increasingly recognized for producing crops with higher nutrient content and lower environmental impact compared to conventional methods. This study aimed to compare the nutritional composition and antimicrobial properties of organically and chemically grown garlic. Nutritional analysis revealed that organic garlic had significantly higher levels of bioactive elements compared to chemically grown garlic. Specifically, organic garlic contained 161,879.31 mg/kg of protein and 13.64% allicin content, whereas chemically grown garlic had 123,047.28 mg/kg of protein and 11.25% allicin content. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the mean values of sodium (organic: 9,455.54 ppm, chemical: 5,486.90 ppm), protein (organic: 161,879.31 mg/kg, chemical: 123,047.28 mg/kg), and allicin (organic: 13.64%, chemical: 11.25%). The antimicrobial study demonstrated that organic garlic juice exhibited greater antimicrobial activity against both Salmonella typhi (p < 0.001) and Staphylococcus aureus (p < 0.01) compared to chemical garlic juice. Organic cultivation significantly enhances the nutritional and antimicrobial properties of garlic, making it a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice. These findings underscore the importance of organic farming practices for improving food quality and safety.

Effect of different fertilizer doses and spacing on performance of Pearl Millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under Tripura Agro-Climatic Condition

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of fertilizer and spacing on performance of Pearl Millet under Tripura agro-climatic condition during pre-kharif season in 2024 at the Experimental Farm of College of Agriculture, Tripura Lembucherra(23o56' N latitude and 91o10' E longitude, 160 m.s.l.) in a sandy loam soil with 12 treatment combinations (fourfertilizer level in main plot and three level of spacingin sub-plot) in a split plot design replicated thrice.Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) is 80:40:40 kg ha-1 as N: P2O5: K2O. The main plot treatments are F1: RDF 100%, F2: RDF 75%, F3: RDF 125%, F4: RDF 150%. The sub-plot treatments were S1: 30 cm X 20 cm, S2: 45 cm X 20 cm, S3: 60 cm X 20 cm. The study revealed that both the levels of fertilizer and spacing significantly influenced almost all the growth parameters, yield attributing characters, thegrain yield(kg ha-1) and stover yield (kg ha-1). The highest values of growth parameters, yield attributing characters, thegrain yield (kg ha-1) and stover yield (kg ha-1) were recorded when fertilizer applied @ 125% RDF (F3) in combination with spacing of 45cm x 20 cm (S2).

The Effect of Mulching and Planting Materials on the Growth and Yield of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Sari Variety

The production of sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L.) in Indonesia is still considered low compared to the national needs, which is approximately 2 million tons per year. Sweet potato yields can be improved by influencing both internal and external factors of the cultivation practices. The use of mulch has the potential to stabilize plants environment and growing condition. The use of different planting materials that has different characteristics and hormone contents will also influence the growth and yield of sweet potatoes. The aim of this study is to determine the interaction between the use of mulch and planting materials on sweet potatoes. The hypothesis of this research is that there will be an interaction between the two treatments, which could enhance yield. This research was conducted from February to May 2024 in Sidodadi Village, Garum Subdistrict, Blitar Regency. This study is a factorial experiment arranged based on a Randomized Block Design (RBD) consisting of 2 factors. The first factor is mulch with 3 levels: M0 (no mulch), M1 (silver-black plastic mulch) and M2 (rice straw mulch). The second factor is planting materials with 3 levels: T1 (upper shoot cuttings), T2 (middle shoot cuttings) and T3 (lower shoot cuttings). The results showed that the application of silver-black plastic mulch provided the best yield when applied together with upper shoot cuttings (28.40 tons ha-1), middle shoot cuttings (28.05 tons ha-1), and lower shoot cuttings (27.86 tons ha-1). The rice straw mulch treatment provided the best yield when applied together with upper shoot cuttings (22.53 tons ha-1) and middle shoot cuttings (21.68 tons ha-1). The treatment without mulch provided the best yield when applied together with upper shoot cuttings (25.79 tons ha-1). The choice of planting material can vary according to availability (upper, middle or lower of the shoot cutting) if using black silver plastic mulch.