Abstract: The present study was conducted at ICAR- National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune, for three years (2018-19 to 2020-21). The experiment was laid out using a Randomized Block Design, with three treatments replicated seven times. Three planting spacing were evaluated as 8 x 2 feet, 8 x 3 feet and 8 x 4 feet. The findings of the study revealed that yield and quality are affected by planting distance/ density. Higher pruning weight (0.760 kg/plant), early sprouting (11.33 days after pruning), number of bunches/vine (42.47), number of berries/bunch (106.19), higher yield (3.60 kg/vine), berry quality parameters i.e. TSS (23.49 oBrix), potassium content (948.83 ppm), carbohydrate (29.17%) and wine quality parameters like- better sweetness and higher acidity were observed in 8 x 4 feet planting distance. Shoot length (78.84 cm), average bunch weight (92.36 g), 100-berry weight (101.10 g), phenol content (0.90 mg/L), and wine quality parameters like- aromatic intensity and tannin content were higher in 8 x 3 feet planting distance. The spacing 8 x 2 feet was better for shoot diameter (5.77 mm), yield (19.06 t/ha), berry quality parameters like- acidity (6.32 g/L), juice pH (3.68), volatile acids (0.13 g/L), total acid content in wine (5.14 g/L) and wine organoleptic taste like- colour, body, alcohol, length and overall acceptability.
Sneha Rawat1, Rashmi Goswami1, Sonu Ambwani1* and Tanuj Kumar Ambwani2
1Department of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, C.B.S.H., Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, Uttarakhand, India. 2Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, C.V.A.S., Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar, 263145, Uttarakhand, India. Corresponding e-mail: sonuambwani@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Bergenia ligulate is an important ornamental medicinal plant of the Himalayan region known for its extensive biological activities, low maintenance and wide range of pharmaceutical applications. In the present study aqueous extract of rhizomes of Bergenia ligulata (BLAE) was evaluated for its in vitro immunomodulatory and antioxidant activity through lymphocytes proliferation assay (LPA), lipid peroxidation (LPO), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) assays in chicken lymphocytes. The extraction yield of the rhizome of Bergenia ligulata in water was about 8.90%. BLAE showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH free radical scavenging assay. Maximum non-cytotoxic dose (MNCD) of BLAE for lymphocyte culture was determined to be 200 µg/mL. LPA showed that BLAE enhanced lymphocyte proliferation of B cells and T cells. Treatment with BLAE significantly increased the level of GSH, SOD, CAT and decreased the level of LPO in chicken lymphocytes, thus indicating the antioxidant potential of BLAE. The efficiency of poultry production is rising due to increased global consumption of chicken over red meat, leading to industry intensification, and the focus is shifting from antibiotic growth promoters to non-antibiotic alternatives like phytogenics to combat antibiotic resistance. The study reveals significant immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties of BLAE, thus suggesting that it could be a potential feed additive in poultry production. However, further in vivo research is required to evaluate its efficacy and safety for application in commercial poultry farming.
Department of Food Science and Technology, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Pincode: 263145. Corresponding e-mail: rawatneha1225@gmail.com
Abstract: Wild apricot kernels are rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, but also high in amygdalin, which hydrolyzes to form hydrogen cyanide (HCN), a deadly compound. The purpose of this study was to lower HCN levels in wild apricot kernels by soaking them at various kernel diameters (0.34 mm to 11.66 mm) and periods (0.34 h to 11.66 h) under controlled circumstances. The soaking process was done at 30 ± 2°C, with water replaced every hour and a water-to-kernel ratio of 10:1. These conditions were optimized using Design Expert software and results indicate significantly reduced hydrogen cyanide (HCN) levels while maximizing nutritious content can be obtained. Breaking the kernels into smaller sizes (7.88 mm) and soaking for 10 hours lowered HCN levels to 36.13 mg/100 g while maintaining excellent nutritional content (21.16% protein, 47.75% fat, and 21.22% carbs) and yield (96.45%). The improved soaking process provides an effective and practical way for detoxifying wild apricot kernels while retaining their nutritional value.
A.R. Gawali* and B.B. Waykar
Department of Zoology, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad)- 431004, (Maharashtra), India. Corresponding e-mail: ashishgawali8888@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i02.36
Key words: Pollen substitute diets, medicinal plants, consumption rate, foraging activity, population strength, brood development, Apis mellifera L.
Abstract: The study aimed to develop pollen substitute diets using medicinal plants for Apis mellifera colonies to satisfy their pollen and nectar requirements during drought conditions. A full-fledged pollen substitute diet plays a vital role during the floral dearth period and helps maintain the honey bee’s health and strength from April to June 2023. Eight different pollen substitute diets were fed to 8 treatment groups of honeybee colonies. Diet-1, containing only sugar syrup (50 %) was used as a control. Pollen Diet-2 to 8 containing leaf and fruit powders of locally available medicinal plants and other contents with sugar syrup (50 %). The study parameters such as feed consumption rate, foraging activity, pollen storage, capped brood area, and population strength of bees were studied. The honeybee colonies fed with Diet-8, with mixed contents, showed the highest consumption rate, foraging activity, pollen storage, capped brood area and total strength of bees as compared to other treatment groups of colonies. The result showed high potential of a pollen substitute diet to improve the overall health of honeybee colonies under adverse conditions of nectar and pollen sources.
Robin Kumar Mahato, Jayant Chand, Sapna Soni, Divya Bera, Nikhil H Lakra, Augustine Guria, Md. Irfan Ahmad Ansari* and Pramod Rai
Department of Agricultural Engineering, Birsa Agricultural University, Ranchi, Jharkhand – 834006, India. Corresponding e-mail: irfaniitkgp2000@gmail.com
Abstract: Cold storage is an important method for storing onions in fresh and wholesome state for a longer period. Small cold storage for storing sixteen tonnes of onion at 1°C was designed to reduce post-harvest losses of onions and ensure a better return to small and marginal farmers. The polypropylene plastic mesh bags of 50 kg capacity were selected for onion storage with dimensions of 94 cm x 57 cm x 35 cm. The number of bags was found to be 3200 for storage of sixteen tonnes (16 MT) of onions. Considering 8 layers of bags stacked on wooden pallets, the stack height was obtained as 2.8 m. The inside and outside dimension of onion cold storage was was 8.3 m × 5.5 m × 4 m and 9 m × 6.3 m × 4.7 m in length, width and height, respectively with 10 stacks in 8 layers. The volume of cold storage was found to be 1802.6 m3. The construction and insulating materials selected were polyurethane sheet, PUF, polythene sheet, PCC, PVC panels, brick, etc., for floors, walls, door and roof for cooling load calculation. The cooling load was calculated considering all the possible heat sources. The total cooling load was found to be 2052770.6 kJ/day with 85.88% product heat load, 5.61% transmission heat load and 4.02% air infiltration load of total heat load. The cooling load for cooling sixteen tonnes of onions was found to be 9.5 tonnes which would be helpful in the selection of appropriate refrigeration systems by farmers and traders.
S.R. Jervin Ananth1, B.S. Manjula1*, S. Kurien1, B. Madhumitha2 and P. Ramesh Kumar3
1Division of Horticulture, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - 641114, India. 2Division of Plant Pathology, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - 641114, India. 3Division of Crop physiology and Biochemistry, Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu - 641114, India. Corresponding e-mail: manju.flori@gmail.com
Abstract: Guava is a climacteric fruit with a short shelf life (5-8 days). The rapid postharvest deterioration of guava fruits poses a major challenge in increasing longevity and retaining quality. This study examined the impact of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) infused into different biopolymer edible coatings, including beeswax, gelatin, guar gum, and xanthan gum, to extend the shelf life which is relatively unexplored in guava fruits. The results revealed that AgNPs-coated fruits exhibited significantly prolonged shelf life: beeswax-coated fruits lasted 11 days, gelatin-coated fruits lasted 9.5 days, guar gum-coated fruits lasted 7 days and xanthan gum-coated fruits lasted 6.25 days, compared to the control (4.25 days). The highest PLW (Physiological Loss in Weight) of 70.44 % was noticed in uncoated fruits and the lowest PLW of 38.73 % in beeswax + AgNPs at the 12th day of storage was noticed. The highest firmness of 24.25 kg cm-2 was observed in beeswax + AgNPs and the lowest firmness of 6.00 kg cm-2 was noted in uncoated fruits on the 12th day of storage. The highest Total Soluble Solids (TSS) content of 16.80° Brix on the 10th day was recorded in the control (uncoated fruits), but the fruits shrunk and lost consumer acceptance. On the contrary, the lowest value of 11.80° Brix was found in fruits coated with beeswax + AgNPs, but there was only a slight decline on 10th day. The fruits retained their form and shape. High vitamin C retention was observed in beeswax + AgNPs coating as 195.2 mg100g-1, but a massive reduction was observed in control as 169.6 mg100g-1 on the 12th day of observation. The observations taken on the 12th day of storage denote delayed starch conversion with a high percentage of total sugar reduction at 5.51 in beeswax + AgNPs coating. The high percentage of total sugars was observed in control as 9.22. The biopolymer coatings with AgNPs delayed fruit senescence and maintained better physiological and biochemical properties, demonstrating their potential as an effective postharvest treatment for guava fruits. This is the first study of its kind in guava using AgNPs with biopolymers. The results of the study were highly promising, opening the door for more intensive research and the need to scale up this technique to address postharvest loss of guava fruits.
U. Sharma1*, N.S. Kaler2 and S. Verma3
1Regional Horticultural Research and Training Station, Mashobra, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. 2College of Horticulture & Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India. 3Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P). Corresponding e-mail: upender.35@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i02.39
Key words: Boron, apple, front-line demonstration, extension gap, technology gap and economics
Abstract: Apple (Malus domestica) grown in the lower Spiti Valley in harsh climatic conditions is regarded as an important source of income for tribal farmers. Poor flower and fruit formation due to a lack of boron in apple orchards leads to lower productivity. Considering this issue, front-line demonstrations were conducted at farmers' orchards across various locations in the Spiti Valley from 2020 to 2021. The impact of boron foliar application on apple yield and the socioeconomic status of farmers in the region was then assessed. Front-line demonstrations demonstrated a yield increase of 21.32% and 9.14% in 2020 and 2021, respectively, over traditional practice (no boron application). Apple yield varied from 205 to 221 q ha-1 and 262 to 275 q ha-1 during 2020 and 2021, respectively, in demonstration plots. Average apple yield of 213.4 q ha-1 (2020) and 267.4 q ha-1(2021) were recorded in demonstration plots. The technology gap was 86.6 q ha-1 in 2020 and 32.6 q ha-1 in 2021. The mean extension gap during 2 years of study was 22.9 q ha-1, emphasizing the need to motivate and train farmers to adopt improved scientific practices. The technology index during the year 2020 was 20.9% and further, it reduced to 10.9% during 2021, showing higher feasibility of the demonstrated technology. Economic practices revealed higher net returns and benefit-to-cost ratios of 2.16 in 2020 and 3.53 in 2021, enhancing better awareness and adoption of improved practices, thereby increasing the socio-economic status of farmers.
Nilina James and Mridul Umesh*
Department of Life Sciences, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, 560029 Karnataka, India. Corresponding e-mail: mridul.umesh@christuniversity.in
Abstract: Rhizobacteria that promote plant growth are crucial for improving the health, growth, and yield of plants. In this study, 14 isolates were obtained and the significance of Bacillus albus NJ01 as PGPR for the improvement of growth in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) was assessed, as it showed plant growth-promoting traits like IAA, siderophores and ammonia production, phosphate and zinc solubilization, etc. Its role in increasing crop root and shoot length while avoiding the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers was also studied. The root length of tomato control plants and plants treated with bioinoculant was found to be 5.58 ± 0.15 and 7.98 ± 0.24 cm, respectively. The shoot length of control plants and plants treated with bioinoculant was found to be 8.25 ± 0.82 and 10.24 ± 0.11 cm, respectively, therefore confirming the potentiality of Bacillus albus NJ01 bioinoculant as an able PGPR for improving the growth of tomato.
R. Rashika* and P. Karuppaiah
Department of Horticulture (Floriculture and Landscaping), Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608002, Tamil Nadu, India. Corresponding e-mail: vpkhortic@yahoo.com, rashikaravi0506199@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i02.41
Key words: Dracaena reflexa cv. Song of India, media, yield parameters, quality indices, vase life, cut foliage
Abstract: The quality of cut foliage is significantly influenced by growing media, with traditional media such as red earth and sand being non-renewable and unsustainable. This study aims to determine the sustainable, eco-friendly substrates for Dracaena reflexa cv. Song of India cut foliage to increase the growth, yield, and quality. The experiment was laid out in CRBD with 9 treatments and 3 replications, utilized various combinations of garden soil, red earth, sand, farmyard manure (FYM), burnt rice husk, and cocopeat. Among the different treatments, T8 (Garden soil + burnt rice husk + FYM + coco peat at 2:1:1:1 v/v) showed the best performance in growth and yield attributes, viz., plant height, spread, leaf numbers, leaf area, chlorophyll content, root length, and fresh weight. Yield and quality characteristics like number of cut stems, visual scoring, freshness index, colour index, and vase life were also noted as high in T8. Control (T0)-Garden soil recorded the minimum across these parameters. These findings indicate that combination of garden soil, burnt rice husk, FYM, and cocopeat is the most effective and sustainable alternative for improving the yield, growth, and quality of Dracaena reflexa cv. Song of India cut foliage.
Dixit Chaudhary1*, Bharati Kashyap1, S.R. Dhiman1, Manisha Kaushal2 and Anju Sharma3
1Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture. 2Department of Food Science and Technology. 3Department of Basic Sciences, Dr. YS. Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan (H.P.). Corresponding e-mail: dixitchoudhary70@ gmail.com
Abstract: Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema x grandiflora Tzvelev) is a popular ornamental flower cherished worldwide and widely used as loose flowers in India. However, the perishability and inconsistency in the quality of chrysanthemum flowers pose marketing challenges, rendering losses to the farmers. The production of value-added products like garlands and venis can reduce postharvest losses, increase profits, and create new employment opportunities. The present study was conducted at the Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Dr. YSPUHF, Nauni, Solan to morphologically characterize eight genotypes of chrysanthemum to assess their suitability for loose flower production and then prepare value-added products from the flowers of selected genotypes for carrying out the cost analysis. The loose flowers and the value-added products were assessed for their marketability and profitability, among the genotypes evaluated for loose flower production, cv. ‘Solan Shringar’ outshined the other genotypes in terms of largest flowers, highest flower number per plant and postharvest shelf-life. For the value-added products derived from loose flowers, the highest returns on investment was observed for special garlands, followed by B:C ratio of ordinary garlands made from the cv. ‘Solan Shringar’. In comparison, the B:C ratio after selling loose flowers of the same cultivar was low. Based on these findings, it was concluded that, for maximizing profits under North-Indian conditions, cv. ‘Solan Shringar’ is recommended for loose flower production.
Tulsi Saran Ghimiray*1, Biswajit Majumdar2 and Sourav Man2
1Regional Research Station (Hill Zone), Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalimpong-734301, WB, India. 2Central Instrumentation Centre and Quality Control Laboratory, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari-736165, WB, India. 3Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, F/ Agriculture, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari-736165, WB, India. Corresponding e-mail: tulsi@ubkv.ac.in
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i02.43
Key words: Dalle Khursani, polyploid capsicum, capsaicin content, pungency, HPLC
Abstract: Dalle Khursani, a unique landrace of Capsicum sp specific to the Darjeeling-Sikkim Himalaya in India, is highly valued for its pungency. The present study evaluated the capsaicin content and pungency levels of seven accessions collected from diverse altitudinal locations. The concentration of capsaicin varied between 19.05 mg/g to 28.54 mg/g, with corresponding Scoville Heat Units (SHU) ranging from 304,863 to 456,636. The results indicated the presence of significant variations for pungency within the accessions of Dalle Khursani, which may be attributed to genetic factors with the micro-climatic factors, soil composition and water availability contributing to pungency. This study fills critical research gaps with the first quantitative evaluation of capsaicin content and pungency and identified accessions such as DK-02 and DK-03 as superior in capsaicin content, making them potential candidates for further selection and genetic improvement.
K. Divya1, J. Rajender2*, P. Lokesh Babu3, V. Ramya1 and Pushpavalli Snclv1
1Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana. 2BJR Agriculture college, PJTSAU, Sircilla, Telangana. 3Division of Plant Pathology, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, India. Corresponding e-mail: jraj.ra0680@gmail.com
Abstract: Tomato bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas species, a major concern leading to 22-44% yield losses and reduced market value in warm, humid conditions, prompted this study to investigate the disease incidence, phenotypic traits, and species profile of Xanthomonas strains in Telangana’s major tomato-growing areas. The percent disease index (PDI) of BLS ranged from 14.7% to 72.5% in the surveyed tomato fields. A total of 22 Xanthomonas strains were isolated, of which 45.45% (10 out of 22) demonstrated the ability to utilize starch and pectin. All isolates were pathogenic to tomato and were identified as X. euvesicatoria through cultural, physiological and biochemical characteristics. In vitro evaluations of bio-control agents revealed high sensitivity of the Xanthomonas isolates to Bacillus subtilis strains. Additionally, streptomycin-resistant strains were identified, underscoring the need for effective control measures to manage the disease and prevent the spread of streptomycin resistance.
S. Kaur1, S. Sharma1*, A. Kumar2*, A. Kumar3, R. Gehlot2 and V. Arya4
1School of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Regional Institute of Management and Technology, Mandi Gobindgarh, Punjab, 147301 India. 2Centre of Food Science and Technology, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, 125004, India. 3Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, 133207, India, 4Department of Vocational Studies and Skill Development, School of Agricultural Sciences, Nagaland University, Medziphema 797106, Nagaland. Corresponding e-mail: ankitnagpal1995@gmail.com
Abstract: The present investigation explores the application of starch-lipid composites to enhance the shelf life and maintain the nutritional quality of jujube fruits. The research investigates the efficacy of different concentrations of starch solutions (0.1 %, 0.2 %, and 0.3 %) combined with various edible oils (olive oil, mustard oil, and soybean oil) in preserving the physicochemical and biochemical characteristics of jujube during a 12-day storage period. Various parameters, i.e., physiological loss in weight, decay percentage, moisture content, titratable acidity, pH, total soluble solids, TSS/acid ratio, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, ascorbic acid, and total chlorophyll content, were evaluated. The results demonstrate that starch-lipid composite coatings significantly reduce physiological weight loss, decay, and moisture loss. Furthermore, these coatings preserve acidity, total soluble solids, and sugars in the fruit, along with retaining ascorbic acid and chlorophyll content. The study suggests that such edible coatings could be a valuable strategy to mitigate post-harvest losses, enhance shelf life, and maintain the nutritional quality of Indian jujube fruits.
K. Manonmani* and M. Ayyandurai
Department of Plant Pathology, Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai – 625 104, Tamil Nadu, India. Corresponding e-mail: manonmani.k@tnau.ac.in
Abstract: Avocado, a vital nutritious fruit crop, faces significant threats from various pests and diseases, with Botryosphaeria spp. emerging as a serious postharvest pathogen affecting nursery and field conditions. This pathogen was isolated from infected avocado fruits, while Trichoderma species were isolated from the avocado rhizosphere. Evaluation of Trichoderma VOCs against Botryosphaeria scharifii SE(TKD)-7 using a paired plate assay revealed substantial inhibition of pathogen mycelial growth. Trichoderma isolates T(MP)-7 and T(PD)-2 exhibited reduced mycelial growth of 2.4 cm and 3.2 cm, respectively, compared to the control, representing percent inhibitions of 73.33% and 64.44%, respectively. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated alterations in Botryosphaeria mycelium caused by Trichoderma VOCs, resulting in shorter and abnormal mycelium and the absence of spore production. Moreover, GC-MS analysis identified various antifungal compounds in Trichoderma VOCs, including octane, oxirane, hexanediol, oxalic acid, and pentane-1-ol, highlighting their biocontrol potential against fungal pathogens. These findings underscore the efficacy of Trichoderma VOCs in inhibiting pathogen growth and suggest their potential application in plant disease management strategies.
Asma Arab, Mahdi Alizadeh* and Esmaeil Seifi
Horticulture Department, Faculty of Plant Production, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources, Gorgan, Golestan, Iran. Corresponding e-mail: mahdializadeh@gau.ac.ir
Abstract: In the past decade, numerous grape genotypes have been introduced to Iran, many showing desirable traits and adapting well to the region. However, their mass propagation is limited due to their non-native status and the challenges of traditional methods. This research explored single-node cuttings (SNCs) for grapevine propagation as an alternative and compared its effectiveness to traditional hardwood cutting (HWC) techniques. The Perlette and Fakhri grape cultivars were selected and both traditional HWCs (25 cm length, 4-5 nodes) and SNCs (5 cm length, just a single node) were procured from dormant canes. The cuttings were subjected to IBA and inserted into two different rooting substrates in a greenhouse fitted with a misting system. The comparative rooting attributes were measured in both techniques. Both cuttings showed high rooting percentages (more than 95 percent), but the SNC method yielded more plants per square meter. The SNCs planted horizontally rooted earlier and more effectively. While the rooting substrate didn’t significantly impact rooting success, the perlite and coco peat mixture (6:1) was easier to manage for SNCs. Overall, we recommend the SNC approach as a creative, quick, cost-effective and efficient method for grapevine mass propagation.
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