Journal of Experimental Agriculture International

Advancing Agribusiness Value Chains through Farmer Producer Organizations: A Critical Review of Opportunities, Constraints and Policy Support

2026-05-27T13:17:43+00:00

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have emerged as important institutional mechanisms for strengthening agribusiness value chains and improving the socio-economic conditions of small and marginal farmers in developing economies. This review critically examines the role of FPOs in enhancing market participation, collective bargaining, value addition, and sustainable agricultural development. The study is based on a comprehensive review of secondary literature, including academic journals, institutional reports, and policy documents related to agricultural commercialization, collective action, and rural development. The findings indicate that FPOs contribute significantly to reducing transaction costs, improving access to quality inputs, strengthening market linkages, and facilitating financial inclusion for farmers. FPOs also encourage value addition, rural entrepreneurship, women’s empowerment, and climate-resilient agricultural practices. However, the review identifies several challenges affecting their long-term sustainability, including weak governance, inadequate managerial capacity, limited infrastructure, insufficient institutional finance, and policy implementation gaps. Comparative evidence from India and other developing countries further highlights the importance of professional management, digital integration, and strong institutional support in ensuring successful FPO performance. The study concludes that well-supported and efficiently managed FPOs can play a transformative role in building inclusive, competitive, and sustainable agribusiness value chains.

Biochar-based Controlled-release Fertilizers: Smart Nutrition for Sustainable Agriculture

2026-06-05T09:02:52+00:00

Biochar-based controlled-release fertilizers (BCRFs) have emerged as a smart and sustainable alternative to conventional chemical fertilizers, addressing the critical challenges of low nutrient use efficiency and environmental pollution. This review systematically synthesizes the paradigm shift of BCRFs from passive nutrient carriers to intelligent regulators in soil‑plant systems. A structured literature search was performed from January 2015 to April 2026 in Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar using keywords such as “biochar‑based controlled‑release fertilizers”, “smart nutrition”, and “nutrient use efficiency”. A two‑stage screening (title/abstract followed by full text) and systematic data extraction were employed, prioritizing studies with robust experimental designs and field‑scale validations. The findings demonstrate that BCRFs significantly enhance crop yield (by 15–30%), nutrient use efficiency (up to 58.8% for N), soil water retention, and carbon sequestration, while reducing nutrient leaching (by 69–88%), greenhouse gas emissions (up to 66% for N₂O), and cadmium accumulation in crops (by 80%). Key mechanisms include physical barrier effects, chemical interactions (hydrogen bonding, complexation), and stimuli‑responsive release (pH, moisture, temperature). Advanced formulations (e.g., ethylcellulose/soybean wax coatings, nano‑enabled carriers, high‑pressure impregnation) further improve release kinetics. However, performance varies with feedstock, pyrolysis conditions, and coating materials. Challenges remain in long‑term field validation, standardized life‑cycle and techno‑economic assessment, ecological risk evaluation, and scalable production. Future directions include multi‑stimuli responsive systems, AI‑driven optimization, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This review provides an engineering‑to‑agronomy framework to guide researchers, policymakers, and farmers toward climate‑smart deployment of BCRFs.

Yield Gaps in Rice Production: Causes, Challenges and Bridging Strategies

2026-06-06T10:30:37+00:00

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) remains the world's most critical food security crop, sustaining over half of the global population's caloric and protein needs, particularly across developing nations in Asia. Global rice production reached a record 534.9 million tonnes in 2024-25, yet persistent yield gaps between research stations and farmers' fields continue to threaten food security, especially in smallholder-dominated production systems. This review examined the concept, components, and causal factors of yield gaps in rice production at global, national, and sub-national levels, with special emphasis on India and Kerala. Yield gaps were classified into two components: Yield Gap I, arising from differences between research station and demonstration plot yields, and Yield Gap II, representing the more exploitable gap between demonstration plot and actual farm-level yields. The review identified biological, socio-economic, climatic, and institutional factors as the principal determinants of these gaps. India achieved a record rice production of 149.07 million tonnes in 2024-25 with a national yield of 2,899 kg/ha, yet significant regional yield gaps persist, particularly in Eastern India where the gap between attainable and actual yields ranges from 1.7 to 2.4 t/ha. In Kerala, paddy area declined from 8.75 lakh ha in 1970-71 to approximately 1.76 lakh ha in 2024-25, driven by land conversion, labour scarcity, and non-profitability. Integrated Crop Management, quality seed supply, adequate credit, post-harvest loss reduction, precision agriculture, and strengthened research-extension linkages were identified as the foremost strategies for bridging exploitable yield gaps in rice.

Artificial Intelligence in Agricultural Extension: Transforming Farmer Advisory Systems, Decision Support and Knowledge Delivery

2026-06-09T12:25:32+00:00

Agricultural extension services face a structural crisis characterised by acute shortages of trained advisors, declining public investment, and rapidly escalating agronomic complexity in an era of accelerating climate change. Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a prominent technological response to these challenges, offering scalable, personalised, and continuously improving advisory capabilities across multiple modalities. This critical review examines the current state of AI applications within agricultural extension, synthesising evidence on farmer advisory systems, decision support tools, and knowledge delivery mechanisms drawn from a wide-ranging body of peer-reviewed literature and authoritative institutional sources. Key applications reviewed include machine learning-based crop management decision support, deep learning-powered pest and disease diagnostics, conversational chatbot advisory platforms, remote sensing-integrated recommendation systems, and natural language processing tools designed for multilingual, low-literacy contexts. The review finds that whilst technical capabilities have advanced substantially, the translation of these capabilities into demonstrated farm-level impact — particularly for smallholder farmers in low-income countries — remains limited and inadequately evidenced. Structural barriers, including the digital divide, data governance deficits, algorithmic opacity, gendered inequalities in digital access, and inadequate public extension infrastructure, continue to constrain equitable deployment at scale. The review argues that realising the transformative potential of AI in agricultural extension requires coherent policy frameworks addressing digital infrastructure, data rights, institutional capacity, and regulatory accountability. It concludes that AI-based advisory tools are most appropriately understood as augmenting rather than replacing human extension capacity, and that inclusive design, independent evaluation, and participatory development are essential prerequisites for equitable and effective deployment.

Biochar as a Sustainable Soil Amendment: Impacts on Soil Fertility, Nutrient Dynamics, and Crop Yield: A Review

2026-06-12T07:33:57+00:00

Biochar has emerged as a promising soil amendment for improving soil fertility, enhancing nutrient availability, and increasing crop productivity under sustainable agricultural systems. Biochar is a carbon-rich material produced through the pyrolysis of organic biomass in the absence of oxygen or under limited oxygen conditions. Application of biochar improves soil physical, chemical, and biological properties by enhancing soil structure, water holding capacity, cation exchange capacity, microbial activity, and nutrient retention. Biochar also plays an important role in regulating nutrient dynamics by reducing nutrient leaching and increasing nutrient use efficiency. Several studies have reported significant improvements in plant growth, yield attributes, and crop productivity following biochar application in different soil types and cropping systems. In addition, biochar contributes to environmental sustainability through carbon sequestration and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. However, the effectiveness of biochar varies depending on feedstock type, pyrolysis conditions, soil characteristics, and application rates. This review highlights the effects of biochar on soil fertility, nutrient dynamics, and crop productivity, along with its environmental implications, limitations, and future research prospects for sustainable agriculture.

Women Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness: Pathways to Economic Empowerment and the Role of Extension Support

2026-06-13T12:47:56+00:00

Women constitute a significant yet often under recognized workforce in agriculture, particularly in developing countries like India, where agrarian livelihoods dominate rural economies. This paper examines the role of women entrepreneurship in agribusiness as a key driver of economic empowerment, gender equality, and sustainable rural development. Women actively engage in diverse agricultural and allied activities, including crop production, livestock rearing, food processing, value addition, and small-scale enterprises, contributing substantially to household income and food security. The study highlights the importance of institutional mechanisms such as Self-Help Groups (SHGs), extension services, and digital technologies in promoting women agripreneurship. SHGs enhance financial inclusion, collective action, and entrepreneurial skills, while extension services facilitate capacity building, technology transfer, and market linkages. Additionally, digital platforms, mobile applications, and e-commerce systems have improved market access, reduced transaction costs, and strengthened decision-making among women entrepreneurs. Government initiatives, including NRLM, MKSP, PMFME, and MUDRA schemes, have played a crucial role in supporting women-led agribusiness ventures through financial assistance, training, and policy support. However, several challenges persist, such as limited access to land and credit, gender-based constraints, inadequate technical knowledge, market barriers, and the digital divide.

The paper suggests strategic interventions, including strengthening extension systems, improving financial access, enhancing digital literacy, promoting skill development, and encouraging collective institutions like SHGs and FPOs. In conclusion, women entrepreneurship in agribusiness holds immense potential to drive inclusive growth, enhance livelihood security, and contribute to sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural systems.

Seed Germination Behaviour and Factors Affecting Germination in Arjun (Terminalia arjuna): A Review

2026-06-15T12:49:56+00:00

Terminalia arjuna is an important medicinal and multipurpose forest tree species widely distributed in tropical regions of the Indian subcontinent. The species possesses significant ecological, economic, and pharmaceutical importance, particularly due to its well-known cardioprotective properties. However, large-scale propagation of Terminalia arjuna is often constrained by poor and irregular seed germination caused by hard and woody fruit covering, dormancy behaviour, and environmental factors. The present review summarizes available research findings on seed germination behaviour, factors affecting germination, pre-sowing seed treatments, and nursery practices associated with successful seedling establishment of Terminalia arjuna. The review highlights the influence of seed coat hardness, moisture availability, temperature, seed storage duration, nursery media, and biotic interactions on germination and early seedling growth. Various pre-sowing treatments such as mechanical scarification, sulphuric acid treatment, hot water soaking, and application of plant growth regulators including gibberellic acid (GA₃) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) were found effective in enhancing germination percentage, reducing germination time, and improving seedling vigour. Studies also indicated that appropriate nursery media, root trainer technology, and mycorrhizal associations significantly improve seedling establishment and survival under nursery conditions. The review concludes that proper pre-sowing treatments combined with scientific nursery management practices can substantially improve propagation efficiency and establishment success of Terminalia arjuna for plantation and conservation programmes.

Vegetables are Medicines: A Review on the Role of Vegetables in Human Health

2026-06-22T09:40:39+00:00

India is the world’s most populous country and produces nearly 207 million tonnes of vegetables annually, ranking second only to China. It is paradoxical that a country with such high vegetable production potential experiences considerable post-harvest losses, which reduce per capita availability and contribute to poor access to vegetables. Poor access to, and low intake of, vegetables have led to nutritional deficiencies arising from inadequate vitamin and mineral intake, ultimately contributing to many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevalent among people, particularly adolescents. This review discusses the status of vegetable production and consumption, the contribution of vegetable groups to food and nutritional security, and the role of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids, lycopene, tocopherols, phytosterols, flavonoids, thiosulphides and glucosinolates. Vegetables, as protective foods containing vitamins and minerals, can help promote immune responses and support the physical and mental well-being of individuals. Consistent inclusion of recommended vegetables in the diet could pave the way for a drug-free system of medicine to cure many non-communicable diseases, besides contributing to vigour. India, with its vast biodiversity of vegetables, particularly tropical vegetables, has considerable scope to provide a balanced diet through the inclusion of recommended vegetables, while also adding variety to the diet. While undernutrition is viewed seriously, overnutrition is also increasing and needs immediate attention, as the country is likely to have nearly one-third of the world’s malnourished people in another 30 years. It is paradoxical that India, despite being the second-largest global vegetable producer, might have a larger proportion of people living with nutritional disorders and associated diseases. Hence, it is imperative to address post-production problems contributing to the poor availability of fresh and nutritious vegetables at affordable prices, and to strengthen supply chain management to ensure quality vegetables are available at reasonable prices throughout the year. Considering the importance of vegetables in nutritional security and their inconsistent and insufficient inclusion in daily diets as per National Institute of Nutrition recommendations, this brief review discusses the status of vegetable production and availability, the bioactive components of vegetables and their role in human health, problems associated with poor vegetable intake, and future strategies.

Impact of Different Organic Farming Packages on Growth and Yield Attributes of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

2026-05-28T07:04:54+00:00

Wheat is a major staple crop essential for global food security. Integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers improves soil health and increases wheat productivity sustainably. A field experiment was carried out at Agronomy Research Farm of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Narendra Nagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad (U.P.) during Rabi season of 2016-17 to study the response of Organic farming packages on growth, yield and quality of wheat. The experiment consisting of 9 treatments viz, T₁ (0% Control), T₂ (50% RDF), T₃ (100% RDF), T₄ (50% RDF + 50% Vermicompost), T₅ (50% RDF + 50% FYM), T₆(50% RDF+25% poultry manure) T₇(75% RDF+ 25% Vermicompost), T₈(75% RDF+ 25% FYM), T₉(75% RDF + 25% poultry manure). The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block Design (R.B.D.) with three replications on silt loam soil with low in organic carbon (0.34%), nitrogen (161.43kg ha^-1) and medium in phosphorus (14.71kg ha^-1) and potassium (240.33kg ha^-1). The growth characters like plant height, number of tillers, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index were significantly higher with the application of 75 % recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄, and T₃.The yield components like number of effective tillers, length of spike, number of grains spike^-1 were maximum with the application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄, and T₃ _.Grain yield (kg ha^-1) and straw yield (kg ha^-1) were maximum with the application of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) through inorganic sources + 25% N through poultry manure (T₉) being at par with T₈, T₇, T₆, T₄ and T₃. Harvest index and 1000 grain weight (g) were not influenced significantly due to nutrient management practices. Thus, it may be concluded that Organic farming practice of 75% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) clubbed with 25% poultry manure proved as the most suitable practice to get more yield and benefit.

Agroclimatic Zoning to Optimize Crop Suitability under Soil, Water and Terrain Constraints in Tropical Conditions of Brazil

2026-05-28T10:56:08+00:00

Agroclimatic zoning is widely used to support crop planning in tropical environments, yet the relative importance of climate, soil and terrain in determining agricultural suitability remains poorly quantified at local scales. It supports the formulation of territorial planning policies for different crops at the state and municipal levels. The objective of this work was to evaluate crop suitability across major production systems using an integrated agroclimatic zoning in northeastern Brazil. Climate indicators, including the Water Requirement Satisfaction Index (WRSI), were derived from long-term datasets, while soil and terrain variables were assessed through field surveys and geospatial analysis. Despite relatively stable climatic conditions, crop suitability is primarily constrained by soil physical limitations, water deficit and slope. Only 42.06% of the evaluated area was classified as suitable for agricultural use, with strong variation among crop groups. Perennial crops and pasture systems exhibited greater adaptability, whereas annual crops and sugarcane were more restricted due to higher sensitivity to water deficit and terrain limitations. Agroclimatic zoning maps related to annual crops, permanent crops, sugarcane, planted pasture, and forestry are presented. Given that only 42.06% of the municipal territory is classified as suitable for agricultural use, the strategic selection of crops based on this zoning becomes a valuable tool for mitigating agricultural production risks and minimizing environmental impacts. The findings showed that soil and topography can override climatic suitability in subhumid tropical systems, emphasizing the need to integrate conservation-oriented management practices to enhance water retention and reduce erosion risks. The proposed framework supports crop selection, land-use planning and risk management in water-limited tropical environments.

Effect of Plant Growth Regulators on Cuttings and Air Layering of Indian Olive (Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume)

2026-05-28T12:51:15+00:00

Indian Olive (Elaeocarpus floribundus Blume) is locally known as jalpai, a potential minor fruit crop in north-eastern parts of India. Because of the recalcitrant nature of the seed, a short period of seed viability and a hard seed coat, the present investigation was conducted to examine the rooting response of cuttings and air-layered branches of E. floribundus towards different types and doses of root-promoting plant growth regulators in combination with an auxin synergist. The cutting experiment was conducted during three planting periods, viz., mid-March, mid-July and mid-November, in a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) comprising nine treatments with three replications. Air-layering was carried out, comprising seven treatments, including a control (untreated) with three replications. Cuttings were treated with Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 1000, 2000, 4000, and 6000 ppm, where air layerings were treated with IBA and NAA solutions of 500, 1000 and 2000 ppm with p-hydroxybenzoic acid (phb) of 2000 ppm as an auxin synergist. Both the varying concentrations of IBA and NAA failed to induce growth and sprouting in the cuttings. Air layerings treated with NAA 1000 ppm+2000ppm phb and IBA 500 ppm +2000ppm phb recorded the highest 100 and 98.33% callusing per cent, respectively. Rooting response was found to be maximum 93.33 and 91.67% in IBA 500 ppm+2000 ppm phb and NAA 1000 ppm+2000 ppm phb, respectively, while minimum (60%) was recorded in the control. The present study indicates that air-layering constitutes a viable, efficient, and economically feasible method for the vegetative propagation of Elaeocarpus floribundus, particularly in taxa that are recalcitrant to propagation through conventional cuttings. The technique is straightforward, cost-effective, and readily adoptable by farmers owing to its high success rate and low mortality. Consequently, it enables the rapid multiplication of high-quality planting material within a relatively short time frame.

Impact of Farm Machinery Rental Services on Productivity, Market Participation and Net Farm Income: Evidence from Paddy Farmers in Punjab, India

2026-05-28T16:21:44+00:00

Agriculture is vital to India’s economy and livelihoods but faces labour shortages, rising food demand, and climate challenges. Mechanisation has improved productivity, yet India still needs faster technological advancement to ensure future food security. This study estimates the effects of rental services of agricultural machinery on productivity, market participation, and farm income, utilising primary data collected from 320 non-basmati paddy growers in Punjab, India. This study captures mechanisation service adoption as a dichotomous decision and adoption intensity as a latent variable and employs a conditional mixed process (CMP) model to address selection bias issues. The results show that adopting mechanisation services significantly increases productivity, market participation, and farm income, and the larger impact is associated with the higher adoption intensity of mechanisation services. Our results also reveal that mechanisation service adoption is significantly determined by dependency ratio, farm size, and education level of the household head. It was also found that young farmers and large landholders were more likely to intensify the adoption of mechanisation services. Our findings highlight the importance of agricultural mechanisation services in improving productivity and market participation, which eventually increases farm income.

Performance of Agricultural and Vegetable Crops under Kadam (Anthocephalus kadamba) Based Agroforestry System

2026-05-29T10:17:02+00:00

Agroforestry integrates trees with crops to improve sustainability, resilience, and farm income while conserving resources, and Kadam-based systems in India enhance soil health and economic returns despite some yield trade-offs. A field experiment was conducted during 2020-21 to evaluate the effect of Kadam (Anthocephalus kadamba) on growth, physiology and yield performance of agricultural crops (wheat, barley and mustard) and vegetable crop (potato) under agroforestry system. Six-month-old kadam seedlings were transplanted at 7×3 m spacing, and intercrops including wheat (HD-2967), barley (BH-393), mustard (RH-30) and potato (Kufri bahar) were grown during Rabi season. Growth parameters of kadam showed substantial increase in height (0.41-2.88 m) and basal diameter (0.64-6.31 cm) from July,2020 to April,2021. Crop performance under kadam based agroforestry and sole cropping systems indicated largely non-significant differences in plant height, chlorophyll content, photosynthesis, transpiration, and stomatal conductance. Wheat yield was slightly reduced under kadam (4.31 t/ha) compared to control (4.97 t/ha), with a benefit-cost (B:C) ratio of 1.36 and 1.57, respectively. Barley and mustard also recorded marginal yield reductions under kadam based agroforestry system. Potato exhibited minor variations in growth traits, with tuber yield of 93.88 q/acre under kadam based agroforestry system compared to control (109.29 q/acre), corresponding to B:C ratios of 0.97 and 1.13. Overall, kadam based agroforestry demonstrated compatibility with intercrops, maintaining positive net returns despite modest yield reductions. Despite modest declines in crop yields, the system maintained positive economic returns, highlighting its compatibility with intercrops. The integration of kadam, a fast-growing timber species, with food crops demonstrates potential for sustainable land use, offering ecological stability and economic resilience in diversified farming systems.

Economic Optimization of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivation through Canopy Management in a Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) Based Agrisilviculture System of Central India

2026-05-30T05:32:58+00:00

Agrisilviculture systems that integrate multipurpose trees with agricultural crops offer smallholder farmers diversified income streams; however, optimal canopy management for economic returns requires empirical quantification. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2014-15 in a 16-year-old Dalbergia sissoo DC. (Shisham) plantation at the research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (23 deg N, 79 deg E; 411.78 m a.m.s.l.), to determine the economic viability of turmeric (Curcuma longa L., var. Suroma) cultivation under four pruning intensities (P0 - no pruning, P1 - 25%, P2 - 50%, P3 - 75%) and three nutrient supply treatments (T1 - NPK fertilizer, T2 - organic manure, T3 - vermicompost), along with an open (no-tree) control. Economics were quantified as cost of cultivation, gross monetary return (GMR), net monetary return (NMR), and benefit:cost (B:C) ratio on a per-hectare basis. The maximum GMR (Rs. 2,96,047 ha-1) and NMR (Rs. 1,64,491 ha-1) were recorded under P1+T1 (25% pruning + NPK fertilizer), followed by P1+T2 (NMR: Rs. 1,55,533 ha-1). The mean B:C ratio was highest under P1 (2.14) and lowest under open condition (1.44). The integrated crop+tree system under P1 yielded approximately 2.7 times the NMR of open (crop-alone) condition, clearly demonstrating the economic superiority of managed agrisilviculture. A pruning intensity of 25% of D. sissoo canopy, combined with NPK fertilization, is recommended for economic optimization of turmeric cultivation in central India.

A Comparative Performance Evaluation of Standalone and Hybrid Forecasting Models for Cashew Nut Price Prediction in Andhra Pradesh, India

2026-05-30T08:58:24+00:00

Cashew nut (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important plantation and export crop that plays a significant role in the livelihoods of farmers and the agricultural economy of Andhra Pradesh. Accurate price forecasting is essential for better market planning and informed decision-making in the cashew sector. The present study compared standalone and hybrid forecasting approaches for predicting cashew nut prices. Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) models were developed individually, while a hybrid ARIMA–SVR model was used to capture both linear and nonlinear movements in the price series. The performance of the models was assessed using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). Although the SVR model recorded lower error values, its residuals showed significant autocorrelation, suggesting that the model could not fully capture the underlying pattern of the series. Hence, the hybrid ARIMA–SVR model, which was the next best-performing model, was considered more suitable for forecasting cashew nut prices. Further diagnostic tests such as the Box–Pierce, BDS, and Diebold–Mariano tests also supported the adequacy and predictive superiority of the hybrid model. Forecasts for the period from January to June 2026 indicated a slight declining trend in cashew nut prices. Overall, the hybrid ARIMA–SVR model provided more reliable forecasts and can support better market-related decisions in Andhra Pradesh.

Evaluation of Rhizobial Strains for Improving Biological Nitrogen Fixation and Yield in Rabi-Summer Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

2026-05-30T09:03:46+00:00

Rhizobium inoculation has been widely reported to have a positive impact on various growth parameters and yield attributes in groundnut. Moreover, the combined application of Rhizobium inoculants with chemical fertilizers has shown synergistic effects in improving pod yield and other agronomic traits. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi–summer seasons of 2022–23, 2023–24, and 2024–25 at the Agricultural Research Station, Kadiri, with the objective of evaluating different rhizobial strains for their effectiveness in improving biological nitrogen fixation and enhancing the yield of rabi–summer groundnut. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications and eight treatments, each representing a different rhizobial strain. The study focused on assessing various yield attributes, including the number of pods per plant, 100-pod weight, 100-kernel weight, shelling percentage, and sound mature kernel percentage. The results revealed that these yield parameters were not significantly influenced by the application of different rhizobial strains, indicating that the strains had a limited direct effect on these specific yield components under the given conditions. However, significant differences were observed in terms of nodulation, overall pod yield, and economic returns. Among the tested treatments, Rhizo-7 (IGR-6) and Rhizo-5 (DGR-35) emerged as the most promising and effective strains. Among the treatments, Rhizo-7 (IGR-6) recorded the highest pod yield (2739 kg ha⁻¹) whereas, Rhizo-5 (DGR-35) recorded the higher halum yield (6518 kg ha⁻¹). Rhizo-1 (DGR-23) and Rhizo-3 (DGR-25) consistently exhibited the lowest values for several key parameters, often performing even below or on par with the uninoculated control. The study highlights the importance of selecting efficient rhizobial strains to optimize nitrogen fixation and improve productivity and profitability in groundnut cultivation under specific seasonal conditions.

Hybrid Statistical Models for Forecasting of Rice Production in Karnataka State, India

2026-06-01T10:47:21+00:00

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a vital staple crop underpinning food security and agricultural livelihoods in Karnataka and across India. The current study used both linear and nonlinear time series techniques to anticipate Rice production in Karnataka state from 1962–1963 to 2021–2022. First, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was used, and the best fit was chosen using diagnostic metrics like the Coefficient of Determination (R²), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). The ARIMA (2,1,2) model was found to be the best suitable of the linear models. Advanced machine learning techniques like Time Delay Neural Network (TDNN), Nonlinear Support Vector Regression (NLSVR) and their hybrid combinations with ARIMA (ARIMA–TDNN and ARIMA–NLSVR) were used to identify potential nonlinear patterns in the data. The adoption of hybrid models was justified by the BDS test on ARIMA residuals, which verified the existence of nonlinearity. RMSE, MAE and MAPE were used to assess the model performance for the nonlinear and hybrid techniques. The most recent three years of data were used for testing, while 57 years of data were used for training in the adopted training and testing framework. In terms of forecast accuracy, the ARIMA (2,1,2)–TDNN (3–7–1) hybrid model outperformed the other models. Forecasts up to 2027–28 was also produced using the model, estimating that Karnataka would produce 4432.68 thousand tons of Rice. These findings imply that, in comparison to individual models, hybrid models that include linear and nonlinear features offer more accurate and consistent forecasts for agricultural production series.

Cereal Production and Undernourishment: A Global Correlation Analysis

2026-06-01T13:40:11+00:00

Background: Food security remains a major global challenge despite advances in agricultural productivity, with cereals like rice, wheat, and maize being central to global diets. While higher cereal yields can improve food availability, undernourishment persists due to issues like unequal distribution, poverty, and limited access to food.

Aims: To examine the relationship between cereal production and undernourishment at the global level during the period 2000–2022 and to assess whether higher agricultural productivity contributes to improved food security and reduced hunger.

Study Design: The study adopted a quantitative analytical research design using secondary data.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted using global-level data collected from international food and agricultural databases covering the period from 2000 to 2022.

Methodology: Secondary data on cereal yield (kg/ha) and prevalence of undernourishment (% of population) were collected from international databases. Cereal yield was considered as an indicator of agricultural productivity and food availability, while undernourishment represented nutritional insecurity. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarise trends and variations in the data. Pearson correlation analysis was used to determine the direction and strength of the relationship between cereal production and undernourishment. In addition, a simple Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was applied to evaluate the effect of cereal yield on undernourishment levels across countries during the study period.

Results: The findings revealed a negative association between cereal yield and undernourishment from 2000–2022. Countries with higher cereal productivity generally experienced lower levels of hunger and nutritional insecurity. Pearson correlation analysis indicated an inverse relationship between the variables, suggesting that improvements in cereal production are associated with reductions in undernourishment. OLS regression results further confirmed that increases in cereal yield contributed significantly to lowering undernourishment levels. However, differences among countries indicated that factors such as food accessibility, income levels, infrastructure, and distribution systems also influence nutrition outcomes.

Conclusion: The study concludes that increasing cereal productivity plays an important role in improving food security and reducing global hunger. The findings emphasise the need for sustainable agricultural development, efficient food systems, and equitable access to food resources to achieve long-term nutrition security.

Growth Performance, Meat Quality, Lipid Profile and Residue Status of Broiler Chickens Supplemented with Polyalthia longifolia Ethanolic Leaf Extract Powder

2026-06-01T13:44:31+00:00

Background: The withdrawal of antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in poultry production has intensified the search for safe, natural alternatives that support both productivity and meat safety.

Aim: This study evaluated the efficacy of Polyalthia longifolia Ethanolic Leaf Extract Powder (PlELEP) as a phytogenic substitute for ciprofloxacin in broiler chickens, with emphasis on growth performance, carcass traits, and comprehensive meat quality parameters.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, between January and April, 2020.

Materials and Methods: A total of 210 one-day-old Arbor Acres broiler chicks were randomly assigned to five treatments (n = 42/treatment): negative control (no additive), positive control (10 mg/L ciprofloxacin in water), and three PlELEP-supplemented groups (1, 2, and 3 g/L in drinking water). The trial lasted 42 days, with PlELEP or ciprofloxacin administered intermittently during grower and finisher phases. At slaughter, breast meat was analysed for physicochemical properties, lipid profile, and residues of antioxidants and antibiotics.

Results: Dietary supplementation with 3 g/L PlELEP significantly improved average daily gain (43.64 g) and feed conversion ratio (1.99) compared to the negative control (42.92 g; FCR = 2.14; p < 0.05), matching the performance of the ciprofloxacin group. Dietary PlELEP supplementation did not alter carcass traits. PlELEP at 3 g/L also enhanced meat quality, yielded lower ultimate pH (5.83), higher water-holding capacity (73.96%), and reduced cooking loss (28.37%) relative to controls. Furthermore, breast meat from this group exhibited the most favourable lipid profile, lowest total cholesterol (83.23 mg/dL) and triglycerides (110.55 mg/dL), highest HDL (52.14 mg/dL), and elevated endogenous phenolic (1.24 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (1.96 mg quercetin/g) content. Critically, Ciprofloxacin residues (35.33 µg/kg) were confirmed in the positive control.

Conclusion: Polyalthia longifolia ethanolic leaf extract, particularly at 3 g/L, functioned as a multifunctional, residue-free alternative to conventional AGPs, simultaneously enhancing growth efficiency, improving key meat quality attributes, and enriching nutritional and antioxidant profiles.

Agronomic and Structural Characterization of Cocoa Orchards and Growers in Main Production Area of Côte d’Ivoire

2026-06-03T11:24:46+00:00

Côte d'Ivoire is the world’s top cocoa producer, contributing about 38% of global supply and supporting its economy and farmers’ livelihoods. Cocoa production faces challenges such as low yields, ageing farms, climate change, pests, and diseases. A diagnosis of Ivorian cocoa orchard was carried out from 2015 to 2017 through a survey conducted in 16 departments representative of the three major cocoa-producing areas. The objective was to update characteristics of cocoa producers and agronomic characteristics of cocoa plantations in Côte d'Ivoire. To this end, a sample of 474 producers was surveyed during investigation. Results showed that, in terms of producer characteristics, the majority of producers are indigenous and illiterate. Concerning characteristics of orchards, results showed that most of the plantations (57.57 %) are located on former forest land and mostly use "general" plant material (70.43 %) to create plantations. Average size of plantations is 3.39 hectares, but most of producers (51.92 %) have plots ranging from 0 to 2 hectares. Fields are very often acquired through creation (48 %) and inheritance (46%). Plantations aged between 5 and 15 years were the most common in the first and second cocoa loop with rates of 40 % and 38 %. As for the third loop, more than 45% of plantations are over 30 years old. In addition, more than 50% of orchards produce between 0-250 kg/ha/year. Agroforestry systems were also observed in most of cocoa plantations visited (95%).

Knowledge of Farmers on Organic Farming in Bundelkhand Region of Uttar Pradesh, India

2026-06-03T11:36:24+00:00

The natural resources are considered as valuable assets of the nation and for their sustainable agricultural development, proper planning and management of these resources are essential. In this context, the present study was conducted in Hamirpur district of Bundelkhand region in Uttar Pradesh for assessing the knowledge of farmers regarding organic farming practices. The research applied an ex-post facto research design. A total of 120 respondents were selected from the two blocks by simple random sampling in proportion to size of the sample from selected villages. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule consisting of 22 knowledge items on various aspects of organic farming such as organic inputs, farmyard manure, vermicompost, bio-fertilizers, bio-pesticides, organic certification, disease management, alternatives to chemical fertilisers and pesticides and marketing management. The data collected were analysed by frequency, percentage, mean and ranking method. The results revealed that most of the respondents had medium level of knowledge of organic farming (81.66%). Nine per cent (9.16) respondents had high level and 9.16 per cent had low level of knowledge. The study revealed that farmers have moderate level of awareness regarding organic farming practices but there is a need for effective training, extension support and awareness programmes to improve their knowledge and adoption of sustainable organic farming technologies in the Bundelkhand region.

Optimization of Nutrient Solution Concentration and Substrate Selection for Hydroponic Basil Cultivation

2026-06-03T13:22:43+00:00

Hydroponic cultivation is gaining importance as a sustainable and efficient method for crop production under controlled environmental conditions. The present study was conducted to standardize nutrient solution concentration for different growing substrates in hydroponic basil cultivation under a naturally ventilated polyhouse at Dr. NTR College of Agricultural Engineering, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment consisted of four nutrient concentrations, viz., 900 ppm, 1000 ppm, 1100 ppm and 1200 ppm, and four growing media, namely rockwool, clay balls, perlite and vermiculite. The experiment was carried out during four different seasons to evaluate the interaction effect of nutrient concentration and growing media on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) yield. Statistical optimization and analysis were performed using Design-Expert employing a split-plot multilevel categorical factor design. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that nutrient concentration, growing media and their interaction significantly influenced basil yield (p< 0.05). The developed regression models showed high coefficients of determination (R² > 0.87), indicating good model adequacy and prediction accuracy. The results revealed that 1100 ppm nutrient concentration produced superior yield compared to other concentrations across seasons. Vermiculite performed better during summer conditions, whereas rockwool and clay balls showed improved performance during cooler seasons due to better aeration and moisture balance. The optimization study demonstrated that suitable nutrient concentration combined with appropriate growing media significantly enhanced sweet basil productivity in hydroponic systems. The study concluded that 1100 ppm nutrient concentration with suitable substrate selection can be recommended for maximizing basil yield under protected hydroponic cultivation.

Effect of Nano DAP on Productivity and Profitability of Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]

2026-06-04T12:00:27+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, to evaluate the effect of Nano DAP on productivity and profitability of mungbean (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with seven treatments and three replications. Treatments comprised different levels of recommended dose of phosphorus (RDP) with or without foliar application of Nano DAP at 25 and 40 days after sowing (DAS). Pooled results indicated that application of 100% RDP along with foliar spray of Nano DAP @ 2 ml L⁻¹ at 25 and 40 DAS significantly improved growth parameters, yield attributes and seed yield. The treatment recorded maximum plant height (53.8 cm), branches per plant (4.40), pods per plant (26.32), seeds per pod (11.95) and 100-seed weight (4.17 g). Consequently, the highest seed yield (1656 kg ha⁻¹) was obtained, which was significantly superior to other treatments but comparable with 100% RDP + single Nano DAP spray. Economic analysis revealed that the same treatment recorded higher gross returns (₹90,498 ha⁻¹), net returns (₹66,855 ha⁻¹) and benefit–cost ratio (4.28). The enhanced performance was attributed to improved phosphorus-use efficiency, better nutrient uptake and improved source–sink relationship under integrated soil and foliar nutrition. The study concluded that combined application of 100% RDP with Nano DAP foliar sprays at critical growth stages is an effective and economically viable strategy for enhancing mungbean productivity under rainfed conditions of the northern transition zone of Karnataka (Zone-8).

Decoding Yield-Related Trait Interactions through Genetic Variability and Association Analysis in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

2026-06-04T13:17:33+00:00

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is an important self-pollinated pulse crop rich in protein and widely cultivated, especially in India, contributing significantly to food and nutritional security. Despite its importance, its productivity remains low and unstable due to a narrow genetic base and susceptibility to various biotic and abiotic stresses. The present investigation was undertaken at the Pulses Research Station, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during Rabi 2024-25 in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The current study aims to evaluate genetic variability, correlation coefficient analysis and path coefficient analysis with respect to seed yield and its components in forty-eight genotypes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Eleven morphological traits of the plant, pod, and seed were observed and noted. Genotypes BG-4047 (18.58 g) followed by DC-2305 (18.47 g) andICCV231108 (15.47 g)recorded the highest seed yield per plant. High PCV and GCV were observed for characters like seed yield per plant followed by biological yield per plant and number of pods per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean was observed for number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, biological yield per plant and 100-seed weight. Highly significant and positive correlation of seed yield per plant was found with biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant, 100-seed weight, harvest index, plant height and reproductive phase duration at both genotypic and phenotypic levels. The path coefficient analysis revealed high and positive direct effects of biological yield per plant and harvest index on seed yield per plant. Path coefficient analysis revealed that the contribution of residual effects that influenced seed yield per plant was low reflecting that the traits in the study were sufficient to account for the variability in the dependent variable.

Changes in Soil Chemical Properties under Crotalaria Cultivation in the Sudanian Zones of Burkina Faso

2026-06-05T04:38:29+00:00

In Burkina Faso, over 65% of arable land is degraded, leading to significant annual losses of nutrients. To address this challenge, this study was conducted to assess the effects of two Crotalaria species on soil chemical properties and to evaluate their potential for restoring degraded soils under smallholder farming conditions. A split-plot experimental design was implemented, combining two factors: Crotalaria species as the main factor and fertilizers (organic, mineral, and their combination) as the secondary factor. Treatments included a control (T0), organic matter alone (OM), Burkina Phosphate alone (BP), and their combination (OM+BP). This study was conducted in 2023 and 2024 on two representative sites of the Sudanian zones (Noumousso in the South and Arbollé in the North). Wet scarification using a hoe (manga) was done in the sites in 2023 and 2024. Once the plots were delimitated, amendments were applied at the rates of 5 t ha^-1 of OM and 500 kg ha^-1 of BP. Soil was subsequently tilled on the same day, and 300 seeds of the species were evenly sown in the respective subplots. Plot dimensions were 38 m x 16 m, for the main plots, and 5 m x 2 m, for the subplot. Soil chemical analyses performed over two consecutive years revealed a significant improvement in soil properties: increases in pH, C/N ratio, total and available nutrients, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and base saturation rate. In the North, pH increased from 5.17 to 5.92 and CEC from 3.7 to 5.6 meq/100 g between the initial year and the second year. In the South, total phosphorus increased more than sevenfold. These results demonstrate that combining Crotalaria species with organo-mineral fertilization sustainably enhances chemical quality of degraded soils. The technology implemented in this study, which led to significant improvements in soil chemical properties over two years, could be considered an improved fallow technology.

Socio-Economic Profile and Constraints Analysis of Carrot Growers in Hosur Taluk, Tamil Nadu, India

2026-06-05T08:56:10+00:00

Background: Carrot cultivation in Hosur, a major horticultural hub of Tamil Nadu, has expanded commercially due to urban market demand, but concerns remain over stagnant productivity and inefficient resource use despite increasing cultivated area.

Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the growth performance of carrots over the last decade, analyze the socio-economic characteristics of growers, and identify production and marketing constraints in Hosur Taluk.

Study Design: A two-stage random sampling technique was adopted for primary data collection. Secondary data were analyzed using growth models.

Place and Duration of Study: Hosur Taluk, Krishnagiri District, Tamil Nadu. Primary survey: 2024-2025; Secondary data analysis: 2015-2025.

Methodology: Primary data were collected from 120 farmers. Compound Growth Rate (CGR) was calculated using the exponential function. Garrett’s Ranking Technique was used to prioritize farmer constraints.

Results: The area under carrot cultivation showed an accelerated growth rate of 7.12% per annum, while production grew at 6.85%. Productivity, however, showed a stagnant trend (-0.25%). Socio-economic results indicated a 45% illiteracy rate among respondents. "Incidence of Pests and Diseases" (Score 54.67) and "Price Fluctuation" (Score 54.95) were the top-ranked constraints.

Conclusion: Despite horizontal expansion in area, vertical growth (productivity) is limited by technical gaps and market volatility. Strengthening extension services and cold chain infrastructure is essential.

Influence of Mixed Formulation of Biostimulants on Productivity and Profitability of Sweet Corn

2026-06-05T10:57:01+00:00

Sweet corn is a high-value maize crop cultivated for its tender green cobs, superior taste, and nutritional richness. Increasing demand from consumers and the processing industry has emphasized the need for strategies that enhance crop productivity and farm profitability. In this context, biostimulants have emerged as promising inputs that can improve plant growth, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance, thereby contributing to higher yields and better economic returns in sweet corn cultivation. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2025 at the College Farm, School of Agricultural Sciences, Malla Reddy University, to evaluate the influence of a novel mixed biostimulant formulation on the agronomic performance of sweet corn (Zea mays var. saccharata L.). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and seven treatments. The treatments comprised foliar application of a mixed biostimulant formulation @ 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mL L⁻¹ in water, along with the 100% recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) and an untreated control. The results revealed that foliar application of the mixed biostimulant formulation @ 5 mL L⁻¹ significantly enhanced growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area index, and dry matter production, compared to the control and other treatments. The same treatment also recorded significantly higher cob yield (165.3 q ha⁻¹), representing a 15.35% increase over 100% RDF and a 49.30% increase over the control, along with higher stover yield and economic returns. Furthermore, the treatment recorded the highest benefit:cost (B:C) ratio of 2.44, indicating its economic viability. Therefore, foliar application of the mixed biostimulant formulation @ 5 mL L⁻¹ was effective in improving sweet corn productivity and profitability.

Intercropping of Lettuce with Mint (Mentha piperita) Fertilized with Rooster Tree (Calotropis procera) Plus Cattle Manure

2026-06-06T09:45:07+00:00

Background: Intercropping lettuce and peppermint improves crop productivity and offers environmental and economic benefits. In Brazil’s semi-arid region, combining cattle manure with green manure from native species can reduce production costs and enhance soil fertility sustainably.

Aim: The combined application of organic fertiliser sources plays a crucial role in promoting the optimal growth and development of horticultural and medicinal crops, particularly within intercropping systems.

Place of Study: The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region (UFERSA), Brazil, located at latitude 5°03′37″ S and longitude 37°23′50″ W, at an altitude of 72 m above sea level. The study aimed to evaluate the intercropping of lettuce with mint (Mentha piperita) under fertilisation with a mixture of rooster tree (Calotropis procera) biomass and cattle manure.

Study Design and Methodology: The experiment was arranged in a randomised complete block design using a 4 × 2 factorial scheme, with three replications. The treatments consisted of four application rates of a mixture of rooster tree (Calotropis procera) and cattle manure (0.0, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 kg m⁻²) combined with two cropping systems, namely monocropping and intercropping.

Mint (Mentha piperita) Evaluated Characteristics: For mint (Mentha piperita) cultivation, the following characteristics were evaluated: biomass height, green mass, number of bunches and dry mass.

Evaluation of Lettuce Crop Characteristics: plant height, number of leaves, production and dry matter mass.

Conclusions: The soil application of the mixture of organic fertilizers [rooster tree (Calotropis procera) plus cattle manure] greatly contributed to the increase in productivity, with maximum values of 760.5 and 310.96 g m^-2 for monocropping and intercropping cultivation, respectively, in the mint (Mentha piperita) and lettuce intercropping system at the dose of 3.0 kg m^-2. In lettuce cultivation, the maximum values were 893.83 and 344.30 g m⁻² for monoculture and intercropped cultivation, respectively, at the rate of 3.0 kg m⁻². The intercropping system demonstrated potential for productive use of physical space, represented by the area-equivalent ratio (AER), with a maximum value of 1.45, in the quantity of 3.0 kg m^-2 of rooster tree and bovine manure.

Efficacy of Chemical, Biocontrol Agents and Botanical Strategies for Management of Fusarium Wilt in Chickpea

2026-06-06T10:14:40+00:00

Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceri, is a major soil-borne pathogen constraining chickpea productivity. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized block design during the Rabi seasons of 2024–25 and 2025–26 at the Student’s Instructional Farm, C.S.A. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, using the susceptible chickpea cultivar JG 62. Fifteen treatments comprising four bioagents (Trichoderma harzianum, T. viride, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens), five botanical extracts at 10% concentration (garlic, neem, Lantana, eucalyptus and tulsi), five fungicides (tebuconazole 25.9% EC, propiconazole 25% EC, copper oxychloride 50% WP, carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP and tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG) and an untreated control were evaluated with three replications. Results were consistent across both seasons. Among fungicides, tebuconazole 50% + trifloxystrobin 25% WG was most effective (seed yield: 16.12 q ha⁻¹; disease incidence: 14.81%). Among bioagents, Trichoderma harzianum proved superior, while among botanical extracts, garlic extract showed best performance. These treatments were substantially superior to the untreated control, which recorded 9.19 q ha⁻¹ seed yield with 43.29% disease incidence. Fungicides provided superior disease suppression, however, Trichoderma harzianum and garlic extract emerged as viable sustainable alternatives for Fusarium wilt management in chickpea.

Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide Treatments on Seed-borne Fungal Pathogens, Germination, and Seedling Vigor in Papaya (Carica papaya L.)

2026-06-06T11:59:53+00:00

Background and Objective: Seed-borne fungal pathogens pose a significant threat to papaya (Carica papaya L.) seed quality and seedling vigor, ultimately affecting crop establishment and productivity. This study aimed to identify seed-borne fungal contaminants in papaya seeds from different sources and evaluate the effectiveness of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) treatments in managing these pathogens while enhancing seed germination, vigor, and reducing seedling mortality.

Materials and Methods: The experiment was conducted from January to June 2024 at the Department of Plant Pathology, Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU), Bangladesh, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Seeds were collected from five sources, including three farmer-stored and two commercial suppliers. Seed-borne fungi were isolated using the ISTA-recommended moist blotter method. Four concentrations of H₂O₂ (0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0%) were tested in vitro against identified fungi using the poisoned food technique. Germination percentage, vigor index, and seedling mortality were recorded to assess the physiological responses of treated seeds.

Results: Four fungal species—Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus stolonifer, Curvularia lunata, and Fusarium moniliforme—were isolated from all seed sources, with the highest prevalence found in farmer-saved seeds. Among the treatments, 3% H₂O₂ showed the strongest antifungal activity, significantly inhibiting mycelial growth of all fungi, especially Rhizopus stolonifer (91.74%). However, 1% H₂O₂ was the most effective in enhancing seed performance, recording the highest germination rate (84.67% at 15 DAS), shoot (2.76 cm) and root length (4.76 cm), and vigor index (636.72). Moreover, it significantly reduced seedling mortality to 2.26%, compared to 7.95% in the untreated control. In contrast, 3% H₂O₂ negatively impacted germination and vigor despite its strong antifungal activity.

Conclusion: Hydrogen peroxide at 1% concentration offers an effective and eco-friendly seed treatment strategy for improving papaya seed health and vigor while minimizing seedling mortality. Although higher concentrations exhibit superior antifungal effects, they may impair seed viability. These findings suggest that moderate levels of H₂O₂ can be integrated into seed treatment protocols for papaya to enhance seed quality and reduce fungal infection.

Optimizing Productivity of Pearl Millet through Precision Nitrogen Management: Determining Optimal Doses and Scheduling for Improved Growth and Yield Stability under Semi-Arid Conditions of Rajasthan, India

2026-06-09T11:41:19+00:00

Efficient nitrogen management is critical for sustaining pearl millet productivity in semi-arid regions due to low nutrient retention and high losses in light-textured soils. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum nitrogen level and scheduling strategy for improving growth and yield of pearl millet in semi-arid Rajasthan. The present investigation was carried out during the 2025–26 cropping season at the Agronomy Research Farm, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, with the objective of assessing the influence of varying nitrogen application rates and nitrogen scheduling strategies on the growth and yield performance of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.). The experiment was established using a factorial randomised block design with three replications. The treatment structure comprised four nitrogen levels (40, 60, 80, and 100 kg N ha⁻¹) in combination with three nitrogen scheduling treatments. Results indicated that increasing nitrogen levels significantly improved overall growth and yield attributes. Application of 100 kg N ha⁻¹ produced the highest values for major yield parameters; however, it remained statistically at par with 80 kg N ha⁻¹ as confirmed by Critical Difference (CD) at P = 0.05, while both were significantly superior to lower nitrogen levels. Among scheduling treatments, split application of 50% basal + 25% at 30 DAS + 25% at 45 DAS consistently improved growth and yield attributes compared to other treatments. This treatment was statistically at par with two-split application at 45 DAS but superior to single and other split applications. Based on overall performance and input efficiency, application of 80 kg N ha⁻¹ combined with three-split nitrogen application (50% basal + 25% at 30 DAS + 25% at 45 DAS) is recommended for achieving higher productivity of pearl millet under semi-arid conditions of Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Assessment of the Factors Influencing Farmers' Exposure to Adulterated Herbicides and Their Impacts on Weed Management Efficiency and Crop Production in Oyo and Ogun States, Nigeria

2026-06-09T12:17:36+00:00

Herbicide adulteration has emerged as a critical constraint to sustainable weed management and crop productivity among smallholder farmers in Southwestern Nigeria. This study assessed the socio-economic, institutional, and agronomic factors influencing farmers’ exposure to adulterated herbicides and their impact on weed management and crop production in Oyo and Ogun States. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey was conducted in the 48 cropping communities, using Cochran’s formula (n = Z²pq/e²; Z = 1.96, p = 0.982, e = 0.05). The minimum sample (385) was expanded by 30% to 500 households (250/state). Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, χ², logistic regression, t-tests, and ANOVA (p < 0.05). The findings revealed that farming was dominated by middle-aged farmers with an average age of 47.4 ± 12.1 years, indicating an ageing agricultural workforce with limited youth participation. Male farmers constituted 64.6% of respondents, while the average household size was 5.6 persons, reflecting strong dependence on family labour for weed control operations. Farmers had an average of 8.8 years of formal education, and educational attainment significantly reduced exposure to adulterated herbicides (OR = 0.832, p = 0.001), underscoring the importance of literacy in agrochemical verification and decision-making. Similarly, extension contact significantly reduced exposure (OR = 0.820, p = 0.009), whereas larger farm size increased vulnerability (OR = 1.236, p = 0.015). Membership in farmer associations showed a near-significant protective effect (OR = 0.708, p = 0.052). Glyphosate-based herbicides were used by 96.0% of respondents, while 71.6% relied on paraquat despite increasing global restrictions due to toxicity concerns. Nearly half (44.8%) of the sample size sourced herbicides from informal markets, thereby increasing exposure to counterfeit products. Herbicide expenditure accounted for 16.9% of total production costs, indicating substantial economic dependence on chemical weed control. Although 70.0% of farmers were aware of herbicide adulteration, detailed knowledge of counterfeit indicators, environmental risks, and herbicide resistance remained low. Weak regulatory enforcement, inadequate retailer quality assurance, low training participation (24.4%), and poor access to credit (31.6%) further exacerbated farmers’ vulnerability. Herbicide adulteration is both a weed management and institutional governance challenge. Strengthening regulatory surveillance, promoting certified agro-dealer systems, expanding extension services, improving farmer literacy, and introducing digital authentication technologies are essential for safeguarding weed management efficiency, reducing herbicide resistance risks, and ensuring sustainable crop production and food security in Nigeria.

Identification of Climate Smart Pigeon pea Varieties for Rainfed Alfisols of Telangana, India

2026-06-10T10:49:12+00:00

Pigeon pea is considered an important crop in rainfed and dryland agriculture. It is the most prominent crop under rainfed Alfisols. The duration of variety is a big thing need to be focused on to get more profits in unpredictable rainfall situations. In this regard, the experiment was conducted to evaluate and identify climate-smart Pigeon pea varieties with high-yielding potential suitable for rainfed Alfisols of Telangana State. The study was executed with eight varieties of different maturity duration, replicated thrice in a randomised block design (RBD) for three consecutive years (kharif, 2017 to kharif, 2019). The pooled data revealed that mid-early duration (140-160 days) varieties viz., WRGe-96 (1336 kg ha^-1, Rs. 76,668 ha^-1Rs. 45,913 ha^-1and 2.49), WRGe-97 (1271 kg ha^-1, Rs. 72,740 ha^-1, Rs. 42,312ha^-1and 2.39) and medium duration variety WRG-27 (1237 kg ha^-1, Rs.70,742 ha^-1 and Rs. 40,243 ha^-1and 2.32) performed better than that of other early (115-125 days) and medium duration (160-180 days) varieties group. Further, a few medium varieties were affected by prolonged dry spells during the terminal stages in the post-monsoon period, resulting in inferior yields. There is a highly positive correlation among the parameters. Cluster analysis showed that medium-duration varieties were similar and at par with mid-early duration varieties, and these were at par with early-duration cultivars.

Effect of Irrigation Level and Land Configuration on Beetroot

2026-06-11T12:21:41+00:00

In recent scenario of limiting water and land resources and beetroot is sensitive to water deficits broad bed and furrow planting technique is one of the new agronomic systems since its water saving and better nutrient utilization property which results in higher root yield. The present study was conducted at Main Rice Research Centre, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat during rabi seasons of 2021-22 and 2023-24 to study the effect of land configuration and irrigation level on beetroot. The experiment was laid out in strip plot design with four replications. The experiments consisting horizontal plot with three irrigation level- (IW/CPE) viz. 0.6, 0.8 and 1.0 mm and vertical plot with four land configuration viz. flat bed, ridge and furrow and broad bed furrow (BBF) methods. The experimental findings demonstrated that the cultivation of beetroot with irrigation level 1.0 IW/CPE at 60 mm depth in broad bed furrow method of land configuration (with broad bed length: 4.0 m with breadth 90 cm at spacing of 30 cm) resulted in higher plant height, root length, root diameter, root weight, root yield and net return in comparison to other irrigation levels and land configuration systems.

Optimizing Nutrient Management for Enhanced Growth and Productivity of Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.)

2026-06-12T13:16:34+00:00

Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) is a drought-tolerant perennial plant. Its starch-rich underground rhizomes are used as a valuable food source, including in the Philippines where it grows naturally and in buffer zones. This study evaluated the effects of organic, inorganic, and integrated fertilization schemes on the field performance and yield of arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea L.) under Musuan, Bukidnon conditions. The experiment followed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with seven treatments, including a control (T1), inorganic fertilizer (T2), and various organic combinations of vermicompost and broiler chicken manure (T3 to T7). Results revealed that fertilization treatments did not significantly influence arrowroot emergence, vegetative growth (plant height, leaf number, and leaf area index), or rhizome yield components. However, a significant treatment effect occurred in sucker production at 211 days after emergence, where the 2t ha⁻¹ chicken manure treatment (T4) yielded the highest average of 16.67 suckers. Total rhizome yield ranged comparably from 1.50 to 1.90 t ha⁻¹ across all treatments, indicating that arrowroot can maintain acceptable productivity under low-input conditions. Uniform emergence suggests dependence on stored reserves during early growth, whereas the general lack of significant treatment effects on yield may be attributed to environmental constraints, particularly heavy rainfall and fungal blight infestation. Ultimately, while immediate single-season yield advantages from organic amendments are limited by slow nutrient release, applying 2 t ha⁻¹ chicken manure significantly enhances vegetative sucker production and serves as a sustainable management strategy for long-term soil fertility.

Optimization of Chemical Mutagenesis Conditions with Ethyl Methanesulfonate and Screening of Mutants in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

2026-06-12T13:23:28+00:00

Background: Sesame is a globally important oilseed crop rich in antioxidants, widely valued for food, medicine, and industrial uses. EMS-induced mutagenesis is used to create genetic variation in sesame, with LD50-guided dosing helping determine effective mutation levels for research.

Aims: to assess the chemical toxicity of ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagen and to induce additional genetic variation from two sesame varieties.

Study Design: Randomized Complete Block design with 3 replications. Eight treatments resulting from the combination of two factors: Treatment duration at two levels and EMS dose at four levels.

Place and Duration of Study: The Department of Biology laboratory, Faculty of Science, from January 9^th to 17^th, 2024, and the Experimental station of the Faculty of Agronomy and Environmental Sciences, Dan Dicko Dankoulodo University of Maradi, from May 2024 to December 2025.

Methodology: In a first step, EMS was applied to seeds of the sesame variety SN303 at three doses of 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% over two incubation periods to determine the lethal dose (LD50). The treated seeds and the control were germinated in Petri dishes at room temperature in the laboratory, and germination was assessed every 2 days for up to 7 days. In a second step, the determined LD50 of EMS was used to mutagenize seeds of the variety SN303 and the exotic line PI599446. M1 generation was conducted in controlled conditions in the greenhouse, while subsequent generations were conducted in the field.

Results: Germination was strongly affected by the mutagenic treatment and decreased as EMS dose increased. The LD50 was determined to be 0.6% for 6 h incubation period and 0.5% for 12 h. A wide range of phenotypic variability was observed in the M2 generation for both SN303 and PI599446 derived populations. The highest mutation frequencies, 53 x 10^-4 and 21 x10^-4 were obtained with chlorophyll mutants for PI599446 and SN303, respectively. Agronomically interesting genotypes, namely those with aspects of shattering limitation and those with determinate growth were also obtained.

Conclusion: In this study, lower concentrations of EMS (0.5-0.6%) were more effective in inducing useful genetic variation in sesame.

Screening of Sesame Accessions for Resistance to Fusarium wilt in a Controlled Environment

2026-06-12T13:31:14+00:00

Fusarium wilt is a major constraint to sesame production in Burkina Faso, causing significant yield losses. Although synthetic pesticides are commonly used to manage the disease, their adverse effects on human health, the environment, and the development of pathogen resistance necessitate the search for sustainable alternatives. This study evaluated the response of 25 sesame accessions collected from farmers to three major pathogens responsible for Fusarium wilt: Fusarium duofalcatisporum, Fusarium proliferatum, and Fusarium thapsinum. The pathogens were cultured on sterilized sorghum grains for 21 days, and the resulting inoculum was incorporated into potting soil at a rate of 2.5 g kg⁻¹. Surface-sterilized sesame seeds were sown in 10-L pots containing the infested substrate and maintained under greenhouse conditions in a split-plot design with four replications. Seedling emergence, disease incidence, and disease severity were assessed at 14, 60, and 90 days after sowing, respectively. Significant interactions were observed between sesame accessions and Fusarium species. Disease incidence ranged from 58.75–96.25% for F. duofalcatisporum, 42.50–87.50% for F. proliferatum, and 33.75–87.50% for F. thapsinum. Disease severity varied considerably among accessions, with severity indices ranging from 36.00–94.00%, 23.50–78.50%, and 17.75–84.25% for F. duofalcatisporum, F. proliferatum, and F. thapsinum, respectively. Among the evaluated accessions, only V9 exhibited relatively low susceptibility to F. thapsinum. Overall, the results indicate that most of the tested sesame accessions are susceptible to Fusarium wilt, highlighting the need for further screening and breeding efforts to identify and develop resistant sesame varieties.

Bokashi Fertilization Improves Growth and Productivity of Cowpea Under Acidic Soil Conditions

2026-06-15T12:11:52+00:00

Background: Cowpea is a drought-tolerant, protein-rich legume widely grown in tropical regions, but its productivity is often constrained by acidic, low-fertility soils and nutrient limitations, particularly phosphorus and aluminum toxicity.

Aims: To evaluate the agronomic performance of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) cultivars grown in acidic soil under different bokashi doses.

Study Design: A randomized block design in a 3 × 5 factorial arrangement with four replications was used.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro (UENF), Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under greenhouse conditions, between October 2023 and February 2024.

Methodology: The experiment was carried out in pots using acidic soil collected from an agricultural area characterized by intensive land use. Three cowpea cultivars (‘BRS Tumucumaque’, ‘BRS Imponente’, and ‘BRS Itaim’) and five bokashi doses (0, 1, 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 g L⁻¹) were evaluated. Growth and yield variables, including plant height, stem diameter, number of pods, and grain yield, were assessed. Data were subjected to analysis of variance and regression analysis.

Results: No significant interaction between cultivars and bokashi doses was observed. Cultivar effects were significant for most evaluated traits, while bokashi doses significantly influenced all analyzed variables. Regression analysis showed progressive increases in grain yield with increasing bokashi doses within the evaluated range, with the highest productive performance observed at 7.5 g L⁻¹.

Conclusion: Bokashi fertilization improved the growth and productivity of cowpea cultivated in acidic soil, indicating its potential as a sustainable strategy for crop production under acidic tropical soil conditions. Nevertheless, the study was conducted over a single growing cycle and did not include post-harvest soil chemical analyses, which should be addressed in future research.

Awareness and Perception of Farmers towards Biostimulants in Dahegam Taluka of Gandhinagar

2026-06-16T06:38:46+00:00

Biostimulants have emerged as an important input in modern agriculture due to their ability to enhance plant growth, improve nutrient use efficiency, and increase tolerance to abiotic stress without directly supplying nutrients. In the context of Indian agriculture, where sustainability and soil health are becoming major concerns, biostimulants are gaining attention as a supportive tool for improving productivity. The present study was conducted in Dahegam taluka of Gandhinagar district of Gujarat, with the aim of studying farmers’ awareness and perception towards biostimulants. The study employed a random sampling method, and primary data were collected from the 200 farmers across selected villages using a structured schedule. The analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage to study the socio-economic profile and level of awareness, while the weighted average mean method was used to assess the perception of farmers and dealers towards biostimulants. The study focused on understanding key aspects such as farmers’ awareness, sources of information, and perception towards biostimulants in the study area. The findings provide valuable insights into the acceptance and perception of biostimulants among farmers and highlight their growing significance in the sustainable agriculture. The finding revealed that farmers belonged to the middle-income group and possessed semi-medium landholdings. Farmers had relatively high awareness and adoption levels of biostimulants, with retailers acting as the most important source of information. Benefits such as enhanced crop growth, improved stress tolerance, and better soil health were moderately, whereas weed control was perceived as less effective. Among the different product attributes, availability, quality, and effectiveness received positive responses, while the high price of biostimulants remained a major concern for farmers.

Evaluation of Seed Characters in Open-pollinated Seedling Genotypes of Litchi (Litchi chinensis L.) under Eastern Indian Condition

2026-06-16T06:45:04+00:00

Litchi (Litchi chinensis L.) is one of the most important subtropical fruit crops of the Sapindaceae family. It is highly demanded for its attractive peel colour, juicy aril and nutritional value. Lower seed weight and smaller seed size is the most important characteristic in litchi selection as smaller seed are generally associated with higher pulp recovery. In the field gene bank of ICAR-RCER, FSRCHPR in Ranchi, Jharkhand, a total of 150 Litchi seedlings of LS series of five cultivars—China, Shahi, Purbi, Desi, and Rose scented—were planted at a distance of 10X10 m. The experiment was conducted during 2023-24 and 2024-25 on 47 elite open pollinated seedling population of LS series along with all 5 parental cultivar to evaluate all seed traits. All the quantitative traits like seed length and width were measured by using digital vernier caliper where as seed weight was measured in weighing balance. Seed shape was observed visually by using DUS guideline. The multivariate analysis was done by using PAST 3 software. The considerable variability of seed traits was observed among the evaluated genotypes, seed length varies from 14.81 to 30.18 mm with average value of 22.24 mm. seed width varied from 7.39 to 19.04 mm with average value of 14.52 mm while the seed weight ranged from 0.50 to 5.38 g with average value of 2.85 g. The highest coefficient of variation was recorded for seed weight (32.99%), indicating highest variability compared to seed length (13.92%) and seed width (14.28%). The cluster analysis revealed significant variability among the studied genotypes. Majorly cluster was divided into two major groups, cluster I and cluster II and further cluster II was re-divided into three more sub-cluster, reflecting varying degree of similarity and divergence. The analysis revealed 99.99% variability from the first three principle components present among the studied traits, PC1 contributed the highest proportion of variation 79.51% followed by PC2 15.08% and PC3 5.41%. Biplot of PC1 and PC2 showed that seedling genotypes such as ICAR-RCER-LS-10/1, ICAR-RCER-LS-13/1, ICAR-RCER-LS-10/10, ICAR-RCER-LS-4/1 and cultivar Purbi were very different from each other. The multivariate analysis effectively differentiated the genotypes and promising genotypes possessing desirable traits. Lower seed weight and smaller seed size genotypes such as ICAR-RCER-LS-4/1, ICAR-RCER-LS-19/10, ICAR-RCER-LS-13/4 and ICAR-RCER-LS-7/1 were identified as the most promising genotypes for further breeding and selection process for developing cultivar with improved pulp recovery and superior fruit quality.

Assessment of Brand Preference and Farmers’ Satisfaction Regarding Homobrassinolide 0.04% W/W in Rajkot Taluka of Gujarat

2026-06-18T10:48:31+00:00

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are increasingly used in modern agriculture because they influence plant growth, crop performance and stress responses. Homobrassinolide 0.04% w/w, a synthetic brassinosteroid, is commercially used for its growth-promoting properties. In regions where soil constraints and nutrient deficiencies affect productivity, farmer satisfaction and brand preference are important considerations for market adoption. The present study assessed farmers’ satisfaction with, and brand preference for, Homobrassinolide 0.04% w/w in Rajkot Taluka of Gujarat. Primary data were collected from 200 farmers selected from ten villages through a structured schedule. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage analysis, were used to describe the socio-economic profile of respondents. The Weighted Average Mean (WAM) method was applied to examine factors influencing brand preference and satisfaction, while Garrett ranking was used to identify major constraints faced by farmers and dealers. The findings showed that effectiveness (WAM = 5.00), quality (WAM = 4.94) and past experience (WAM = 4.81) were the most important factors influencing brand preference. Farmers reported comparatively higher satisfaction with product effectiveness (WAM = 4.13) and quality (WAM = 4.08), whereas lower satisfaction was observed for price (WAM = 2.84), accessibility (WAM = 2.67) and availability (WAM = 2.58). Dealer dependency (Garrett Mean Score = 94.55), lack of technical knowledge (93.10) and high price affordability (93.02) were the major farmer constraints. Dealers identified low margin (85.37) and higher market competition (81.90) as leading challenges. The study indicates that product performance and prior use experience shape farmer preference, while affordability, technical awareness and distribution-related issues limit wider adoption.

Awareness and Adoption Patterns of Biostimulantas among Farmers in Anantapur District: A Study of Narpala Mandal

2026-06-18T10:54:24+00:00

Biostimulants are increasingly used in agriculture because of their role in supporting plant growth, improving nutrient-use efficiency and strengthening crop tolerance to abiotic stress. This study examined the socio-economic profile of farmers, their awareness of biostimulants, their adoption patterns and the factors influencing adoption in Narpala Mandal of Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh, India. A descriptive research design was adopted. Primary data were collected from 200 farmers cultivating banana, citrus (mosambi), chilli and tomato through personal interviews using a semi-structured schedule under purposive sampling. The collected data were analysed using percentage analysis, the weighted average mean and the Garrett ranking technique. The findings showed that 40.50 per cent of respondents belonged to the middle-age group, 39.00 per cent had primary education and 53.50 per cent lived in small families. Most farmers reported annual incomes above ₹5 lakhs (65.00 per cent), agriculture as their main income source (58.00 per cent), medium landholdings (35.00 per cent) and irrigated farming (75.00 per cent). Awareness of biostimulants was reported by 75.00 per cent of respondents, with agricultural input retailers serving as the main source of information (38.66 per cent). Farmers were most familiar with humic acid and fulvic acid, and 88.00 per cent recognised the role of biostimulants in improving crop growth. Adoption was moderate and was characterised by continued use, crop-specific application and repeated application during the crop season. Garrett ranking indicated that availability was the most important adoption factor, followed by product quality and brand reputation. The study suggests that improved access, practical extension support and farmer-oriented training may strengthen informed adoption of biostimulants in the study area.

Design and Development of Dual-Module IoT-Based Smart Dutch Bucket Hydroponic System

2026-06-19T07:26:02+00:00

Hydroponic cultivation offers a resource-efficient alternative to conventional soil-based crop production by enabling controlled water and nutrient delivery. This study designed and developed a dual-module Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart Dutch Bucket hydroponic system for cherry tomato cultivation under a naturally ventilated polyhouse. The system used ESP32 microcontrollers as the central processing units and the ThingSpeak cloud platform for real-time data logging and visualisation. The irrigation module incorporated capacitive substrate moisture sensors, water flow sensors and a DHT22 temperature and relative humidity sensor. Irrigation was automated using threshold-based control, in which the solenoid valve was activated when the substrate moisture level fell below 40% and deactivated when it reached 70%. The nutrient management module integrated electrical conductivity (EC), pH, nutrient solution temperature and water level sensors with dosing pumps for nutrient solution A, nutrient solution B and pH adjustment. Nutrient regulation was programmed according to crop growth stage, with EC maintained at 1.2-1.8 mS cm-1 during the vegetative stage and 2.8-3.5 mS cm-1 during the fruiting stage, while pH remained within 6.7-6.9. Sensor calibration improved measurement performance, with the maximum pH deviation after calibration recorded as 2.49%, EC deviation reduced from 7.93% to 0.35% and flow sensor deviation reduced from +/-7.0% to +/-1.0%. The calibrated system was installed within the nutrient reservoir and linked to dedicated ThingSpeak fields for continuous acquisition of environmental, irrigation and nutrient solution data. The developed system enabled remote access to real-time readings through graphical visualisation. The results indicate that the integrated dual-module approach can support automated hydroponic management while reducing dependence on manual monitoring.

Effects of Biostimulant Applications on Growth Performance, Chlorophyll Content and Biochemical Characteristics of Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica L.) Microgreens

2026-06-19T11:09:46+00:00

This study evaluated the effects of selected plant-derived biostimulants on the emergence, growth, yield, chlorophyll content, antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and colour characteristics of stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.) microgreens grown under controlled conditions. Garlic, willow, wheat and banana peel extracts were applied as natural biostimulant treatments, while distilled water was used as the control. The experiment was conducted in a climate chamber using a randomised plot design with three replications. Time to 50% emergence, time to 100% emergence, microgreen height, stem diameter, individual fresh weight, total yield, SPAD chlorophyll value, total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity and L*, a*, b* and colour index values were determined. The treatments significantly affected most of the measured growth and quality parameters. Wheat extract resulted in the earliest 50% emergence and the highest chlorophyll content, reaching 52.66 SPAD units. Garlic extract produced the highest microgreen yield (581.3 g m⁻²) and also recorded the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, with 192.54 mg GAE g⁻¹ and 80.94 μmol TE g⁻¹, respectively. Willow extract was effective in improving microgreen height, stem diameter and individual microgreen fresh weight. The control treatment generally showed the lowest performance for growth, yield and biochemical traits. Principal component analysis indicated that the first two components explained 94.68% of the total variation among treatments. Correlation analysis showed positive relationships among yield, chlorophyll content, phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. The findings suggest that garlic, willow and wheat extracts can improve specific growth and quality attributes of stinging nettle microgreens under controlled production conditions.

Integrated Crop Management Approaches on Performance of Blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.)) in Vertisols of Andhra Pradesh, India

2026-06-22T09:34:57+00:00

Pulses are nutrient-rich, low-resource crops that contribute substantially to food and nutritional security in India. Sustainable pulse productivity can be improved through integrated crop management (ICM) practices involving nutrient, weed and pest management. A field experiment was conducted during two consecutive rabi seasons (2013–14 and 2014–15) at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University, Lam, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India, to evaluate the effect of ICM practices on blackgram performance in Vertisols. The experiment included different combinations of integrated nutrient management (INM), integrated weed management (IWM) and integrated pest management (IPM), and their effects were assessed on weed growth, crop growth, yield attributes, seed yield and economics. Among the treatments, integration of INM, IWM and IPM, comprising 20 kg N + 50 kg P₂O₅ ha⁻¹, seed inoculation with Rhizobium, pre-emergence application of pendimethalin at 1 kg a.i. ha⁻¹ followed by one hand weeding at 30 days after sowing, and need-based pest management, recorded the highest pooled seed yield (1251 kg ha⁻¹). This treatment also produced the highest gross returns (Rs. 54081/-) and net returns (Rs. 28550/-). However, the highest benefit-cost ratio (1.24) was recorded under the combined weed and pest management treatment. The findings indicate that integrated management practices can improve blackgram productivity and economic returns under the experimental conditions.

Bioefficacy and Economic Evaluation of Selected Insecticides against Lablab Bug, Coptosoma cribraria Fabricius in Dolichos Bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet)

2026-06-23T09:54:13+00:00

Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) is an important pulse-cum-vegetable crop cultivated extensively in India, and the pod-sucking bug, Coptosoma cribraria Fabricius, is a major field constraint. A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2015-16 and 2016-17 at the Horticultural Garden, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, to evaluate the bioefficacy and economic returns of selected insecticides against C. cribraria. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with nine treatments and three replications. Eight insecticidal treatments and an untreated control were evaluated, and three foliar sprays were applied at 10-day intervals beginning at 50 per cent flowering. Observations were recorded at 1, 3, 5 and 7 days after spraying, and pooled analyses were used to assess pest suppression, green pod yield and incremental cost-benefit ratio (ICBR). During the first spray, profenophos 50 EC @ 400 g a.i. ha-1 recorded the highest reduction of C. cribraria over the control, with 70.97, 77.03, 86.20 and 75.22 per cent reductions at 1, 3, 5 and 7 days after spraying, respectively. Beta-cyfluthrin + imidacloprid 300 OD @ 30 g a.i. ha-1 and imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 25 g a.i. ha-1 were the next effective treatments. The highest pooled green pod yield was obtained with flubendiamide 480 SC (3316.0 kg ha-1), followed by chlorantraniliprole 20 SC (3101.5 kg ha-1) and profenophos 50 EC (2826.5 kg ha-1), compared with 1060.5 kg ha-1 in the untreated control. Profenophos 50 EC recorded the highest ICBR (1:13.72), followed by lambda-cyhalothrin 5 SC (1:7.61). The findings indicate that profenophos 50 EC was effective and economically advantageous for managing C. cribraria in Dolichos bean under the study conditions.

Evaluation of F5 Breeding Lines Derived from Pranahitha for Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance and Yield Performance

2026-05-28T16:12:04+00:00

Rice is the second most important crop in the world. There is a need to increase the production and productivity of rice to meet the demand of a growing population at an alarming rate. Biotic and abiotic stresses are the major constraints for achieving the required yield. Bacterial leaf blight represents one of the most significant biotic constraints limiting rice productivity across major rice-growing regions. The present study was undertaken to assess the phenotypic response of fifty breeding lines derived from the cross (Pranahitha//ISM/MTU1010 NIL) against this disease. The experiment was carried out under controlled glasshouse conditions at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Polasa, Jagtial. During the Kharif season of 2021, the breeding lines were artificially inoculated with a bacterial leaf blight isolate (DX-020) using the leaf clipping technique. Among the fifty F₅ breeding lines evaluated, twenty-seven lines exhibited a resistant reaction, each recording a disease score of 1. A further eight lines were categorised as moderately resistant, with a disease score of 3. Notably, the twenty-seven resistant lines also demonstrated superior grain yield performance. Consequently, these lines were selected for advancement to subsequent generations. The findings of this investigation indicate that phenotypic selection under glasshouse conditions is an effective approach for identifying bacterial leaf blight-resistant genotypes. Moreover, the high-yielding lines identified in this study are anticipated to perform favourably in field evaluations and, ultimately, under farmers’ cultivation conditions, while maintaining a satisfactory level of resistance to bacterial leaf blight.

Effectiveness of a Windrow of Lawn Clippings for Massive Yield of Eudrilus eugeniae in Côte d'Ivoire

2026-06-05T13:04:38+00:00

The valorization of agricultural organic residues produced in large quantities represented a major challenge in Côte d'Ivoire. In this context, vermicomposting, which transformed these residues into vermicompost, an organic fertilizer, constituted a sustainable solution for agriculture. However, the availability of earthworms remained a major constraint for the implementation of this process. Thus, this study, conducted in Yamoussoukro, demonstrated the effectiveness of a windrow of dry lawn clippings as an experimental system for producing significant biomasses of Eudrilus eugeniae, an epigenic earthworm species used to improve vermicompost profitability. The average temperature of 25 °C and the rainfall of 95 mm recorded between 2010 and 2019, corresponding to the favorable living conditions of Eudrilus eugeniae, made it possible to determine the implementation period of the windrow from July to October 2020. The windrow covered an area of 14 m² with a height of 10 cm and consisted of approximately 112 kg of dry lawn clippings. During the three-month experiment, 50 rainless days were recorded, which required irrigation. In total, 384 liters of water were applied in 16 irrigation events, at a rate of 24 liters every three days, in order to maintain optimal moisture conditions. At the end of the three months, 3,600 earthworms were harvested. These worms enabled the inoculation of 18 composters at a density of 200 individuals per composter. The results confirmed the feasibility of this windrow system, which was adapted to tropical conditions and accessible to smallholder farmers, with the objective of improving the fertility of market garden crops.

Optimizing Plant Density and NPK Fertilization for Sesame Yield in Ghana’s Sudan Savannah

2026-06-10T11:31:25+00:00

Background: Sesame productivity in Ghana’s Sudan savannah is constrained by suboptimal plant density and fertilizer management, highlighting the need to identify optimum plant density–NPK fertilizer combinations that maximize yield and resource-use efficiency under nutrient-limited conditions.

Aims: This study evaluated the effects of plant density and NPK (15–15–15) fertilizer application on the growth and yield of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) under Sudan savannah conditions in Ghana to identify agronomic practices for improved productivity.

Study Design: The experiment was conducted using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Treatments consisted of three plant densities (3, 5, and 7 plants/hill) under fertilized and unfertilized conditions.

Methodology: The study was carried out at the CSIR–Savanna Agricultural Research Institute, Manga, Ghana. Sesame was planted at a spacing of 60 cm × 20 cm and thinned to the target densities after emergence. NPK (15–15–15) fertilizer was applied at 25 kg ha⁻¹ to fertilized plots. Data collected included days to 90% flowering and maturity, branches per plant, plant height, capsules per plant, 1000-seed weight, grain yield, and biomass yield. Data were analyzed using GenStat, and treatment means were compared using Fisher’s LSD at 5% significance.

Results: Fertilization significantly improved sesame growth and yield across all plant densities. The lowest plant density (3 plants hill⁻¹) produced the highest grain yield and superior yield components, including branching, plant height, capsule number, and 1000-seed weight. Increasing plant density reduced grain yield and yield attributes due to greater inter-plant competition. In contrast, biomass production was highest at 7 plants hill⁻¹ under fertilization. Days to maturity were not significantly affected by either plant density or fertilizer application.

Conclusion: Sesame productivity in the Sudan savannah of Ghana is strongly influenced by plant density and NPK fertilizer management. Lower plant densities combined with balanced NPK application enhanced grain yield and yield components, whereas higher densities increased biomass production. Adopting optimal density–fertilizer combinations can improve productivity, resource-use efficiency, and farmer profitability.