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ThesisItem Open Access STUDY ON EFFECT OF PACKAGING MATERIALS ON SHELF LIFE OF INTACT AND ISOLATED BANANA (Musa paradisiaca L.)(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-06-20) NAZEER NAWABI; Dr. CH. Raja GoudThe present investigation entitled “STUDY ON EFFECT OF PACKAGING MATERIALS ON SHELF LIFE OF INTACT AND ISOLATED BANANA (Musa Paradisiaca L.).” was conducted at Post Harvest Laboratory, College of Horticulture, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University (S.K.L.T.S.H.U), Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the year 2018-2019. The objective of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of different packaging materials on shelf life of banana under different conditions. First and second experiment was carried out with 12 treatments in Completely Randomized Design with three replications to study effect of packaging materials on shelf life of intact and isolated banana, respectively and various physical parameters like PLW (%), fruit firmness (kg/cm2), pulp to peel ratio, color development, spoilage record during experiment, DA meter, shelf-life (16) were studied. The results revealed that, the lowest recorded PLW (%) was recorded in fruits kept in polythene covers of intact banana fruits in HDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (2.77) and isolated banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (2.02). This might be due to lower rate of transpiration, oxygen depletion, CO2 accumulation in the polythene bags reaching on equilibrium and as a result the respiratory process was slowed down at 16th days. The fruit firmness were highest firmness polyethylene bags covered recorded intact banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (4.80) and isolated banana fruits LDPE (40 microns) with1% Perforation (2.93). As a result of fruit related to the changes in the amount of pectin materials cementing the cell walls and the hydrolysis of starch, hemicellulose and cellulose in the fruit. Firmness of the fruit in terms of pressure was found to reduce with increase in storage period at 16th days. The pulp to peel ratio was recorded in polythene cover intact bananas fruits LDPE (40 microns) with non Perforation (3.50) and isolated banana fruits HDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (2.87) may be due to slow rate of ripening as well created by O2 depletion and CO2 accumulation. Reduces the transpiration loss and osmotic pressures to pulp and peel resulting in narrow ratio of pulp to peel in treated fruits Transpiration is relatively constant in mature green fruit in pulp to peel ratio as ripening advanced in the fruits at 16th days. The highest peel thickness was noticed polyethylene bags recorded intact banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 1%Perforation (2.73) and isolated banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with Non Perforation (2.45). As a result of fruit related to humidity of peel that losing of humidity of peel during the repining of fruit at 16th days. DA Meter is a new technology the maximum fruit DA meter was recorded intact banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with Non Perforation (0.92) and isolated banana fruits HDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (0.39) at 16th days. This provides a rapid non-destructive method for assessing fruit maturity from orchard to market. Being non-destructive, the DA Meter can monitor fruit maturity as it develops in the orchard to predict the optimum harvest date. DA meter maturity classes can be identified to optimize harvest timing to supply local and export markets of choice at 16th days. Fruits packed in polythene cover with LDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (18.66) intact banana fruits and isolated banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 1%Perforation (17.88) isolated banana were recorded spoilage percent during at 16days. It was recorded that, polythene bags cover the maximum shelf life of intact banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (15.33) and isolated banana fruits LDPE (50 microns) with 2% Perforation (15.70. This might be due to accumulation or maintenance of high relative humidity in the polythene bags there by reduced rate of transpiration at 16th days.ThesisItem Open Access INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT GROWING MEDIA ON GROWTH AND FLOWERING OF CHRYSANTHEMUM (Dendranthema grandiflora) CULTIVARS FOR POT MUMS(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-07-16) P. MAMATHA; Dr. A. Manohar RaoThe present investigation entitled “Influence of different growing media on growth and flowering of chrysanthemum (Dendranthema grandiflora) cultivars for potmums” was carried out at Floricultural Research Station, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Hyderabad during September 2018 to February 2019. The experiment was conducted in factorial completely randomized design comprising 18 treatment combinations with 3 replications. The treatments consisted of 9 growing media G1: soil + sand + FYM (2:1:1), G2 : soil + sand + vermicompost (2:1:1), G3: cocopeat + sand + FYM (2:1:1), G4:cocopeat + sand + vermicompost (2:1:1), G5: soil + cocopeat + sand + FYM (2:1:0.5:0.5), G6: soil + cocopeat + sand + vermicompost(2:1:0.5:0.5), G7:cocopeat + soil + sand + FYM (2:1:0.5:0.5), G8: cocopeat + soil + sand + vermicompost (2:1:0.5:0.5), G9: control ( red soil ) with two cultivars Cv. Akitha and Cv. Redstone. The growth parameters at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting, flowering, flower quality parameters were recorded and subjected to data analysis. Among different growing media G8 recorded maximum plant height (20.77, 24.03 and 28.40 cm), number of branches (3.10, 4.50 and 6.90), plant spread in N-S (13.51, 19.83 and 23.42 cm), plant spread E-W(14.04, 22.85 and 25.96 cm) at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting respectively, maximum number of fully opened flowers per pot(30.25), number of flowers per pot (49.40), maximum flower diameter(4.30) , flower longevity (17.97 days )and duration of flowering (26.62 days) but G7 recorded minimum number of days for flower bud initiation (59.37), 50 percent flowering (103.14) and 100 percent flowering (118.71). Among the treatment combinations C2G8 i.e. Cv. Redstone in cocopeat + Soil + Sand + vermicompost (2:1:0.5:0.5) recorded maximum plant height (19.93, 24.33 and 30.73 cm), number of branches (3.53, 5.07and 7.20), plant spread in N-S (14.83, 20.49 and 24.18cm), plant spread E-W(15.00, 24.03 and 28.32 cm) at 30, 60 and 90 days after planting respectively, maximum number of fully opened flowers per pot (32.17), number of flowers per pot (50.72), maximum flower diameter(4.56 cm) , flower longevity (18.73 days )and duration of flowering (27.80 days) but C2G7 i.e. Cv. Redstone in cocopeat + soil + sand + FYM (2:1:0.5:0.5), treatment combination recorded minimum number of days for flower bud initiation (49.13days ), 50 percent flowering(90.67 days) and 100 percent flowering (108.48 days). The data on economics revealed that the treatment combination C2G8 i.e. Cv. Redstone in cocopeat + Soil + Sand + vermicompost (2:1:0.5:0.5) recorded highest benefit cost ratio (4.63:1) followed by C2G7 i.e. Cv. Redstone in cocopeat + soil + sand + FYM (2:1:0.5:0.5) (4.56:1) when compared to all other treatment combination. It can be concluded from present investigation that among two cultivars Cv. Redstone responded well when compared to Cv. Akitha. The growing media G8: cocopeat + soil + sand + vermicompost (2:1:0.5:0.5) had shown significant difference in growth, flowering and flower quality attributes with highest benefit cost ratio among all other growing media.ThesisItem Open Access INFLUENCE OF GA3 AND ITS COMBINATION WITH OTHER GROWTH REGULATORS AND BIOSTIMULANTS ON GROWTH, FLOWERING AND VASE LIFE OF CHINA ASTER (Callistephus chinensis L. Nees) cv. ARKA ARCHANA(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2018-11-01) DEVISHREE R; Dr. P. PRASANTHThe present investigation entitled “Influence of GA3 and its combination with other growth regulators and biostimulants on growth, flowering and vase life of China aster (Callistephus chinensis L. Nees) cv. ‘Arka Archana’ was carried out at the Floricultural Research Station, (Agricultural Research Institute) Rajendranagar, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Hyderabad during November 2017 to April 2018. The study was carried out in two experiments; the first experiment was conducted in a Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with eighteen treatments in three replications. Two plant growth regulators viz. Benzyl adenine (BA), Salicylic acid (SA), Triacontanol (TA) and biostimulant viz. Humic acid (HA) were applied in combination with two concentrations of Gibberellic acid (GA3) i.e., 100 and 200 ppm. Between two GA3 concentrations, GA3 200 ppm showned significant effect on growth parameters at 60 and 90 DAT and recorded maximum plant height (42.41 and 61.69 cm), stem diameter (12.83 & 15.17 mm), number of branches per plant (15.71 & 19.07), plant spread in both N-S (31.16 & 40.58 cm) and E-W (31.76 & 40.38 cm) directions. GA3 100 ppm recorded lowest plant height (37.68 & 55.87 cm), stem diameter (10.10 & 12.17 mm), number of branches per plant (12.75 & 16.11), plant spread in both N-S (28.70 & 35.87) and E-W (28.04 & 35.16 cm) directions. Among flowering attributes GA3 200 ppm recorded minimum number of days taken for flower initiation (64.71) and number of days taken for 50 per cent flowering (75.49), more flower size (5.65 cm), number of flowers per plant (79.63), flower weight (3.27 g), flower yield per hectare (22.02 t) and flower longevity on the plants (13.77 days). Lowest results were recorded in GA3 100 ppm in days taken for flower initiation (65.59), days taken for 50 percent flowering (76.03), flower size (5.06 cm), number of flowers per plant (64.22), flower weight (2.69 g), flower yield per hectare (20.38 t) and flower longevity on the plants (11.21 days). Plant growth regulators and biostimulants effected growth and flowering of China aster, Humic acid at 0.5 per cent showed significant effect on growth parameters at 60 and 90 DAT and recorded maximum plant height (44.64 & 65.06 cm), stem diameter (14.39 & 16.13 mm), number of branches per plant (17.71 & 21.58), plant spread in both N-S (35.99 cm & 47.65 cm) and E-W (35.49 & 46.62 cm) directions. In flowering parameters, minimum days taken for flower initiation (61.16), 50 per cent flowering (72.15), maximum flower size (5.65 cm), flower weight (3.60 g), yield (24.25 t) and flower longevity on plants (14.30 days) were recorded in Humic acid at 0.5 per cent compared to GA3, while the lowest results were recorded in control (GA3 alone treatment) i.e., plant height (37.22 & 54.19 cm ), stem diameter (9.0 & 10.32 mm), number of branches per plant (11.93 & 15.07) and plant spread in both N-S (28.05 & 32.58 cm) and E-W (26.52 & 24.81 cm) directions. In flowering parameters, maximum days taken for flower initiation (68.52), 50 per cent flowering (80.04), less flower size (5.00 cm), less flower weight (2.57 g), lowest yield per hectare (18.72 t) and flower longevity (11.16 days) were recorded in GA3 alone treatments. The results of the experiment revealed that among the different treatment combinations, the plants treated with GA3 at 200 ppm + Humic acid at 0.5 per cent (T17) recorded maximum plant height (47.06 and 68.87 cm), stem diameter (16.48 & 19.83 mm), plant spread N-S (42.24 cm & 58.07 cm), E-W (41.84 & 57.07 cm) and number of branches per plant (18.54 & 24.03) at 60 and 90 DAT respectively. Among flowering parameters T17 recorded minimum days taken to flower initiation (58.14), 50 per cent flowering (65.26), more flower size (6.25 cm), more flowers weight (3.90 g), yield per hectare (25.67 t) and flower longevity on plants (15.80) followed by GA3 200 ppm + Salicylic acid 200 ppm and GA3 alone treatment (GA3 100 ppm- control) recorded lowest plant height (35.07 cm & 51.44 cm), stem diameter (8.36 & 10.27 mm), number of branches per plant (10.73 & 12.93), plant spread N-S (25.98 cm & 32.40 cm) and E-W (26.31 & 33.40 cm) directions at 60 and 90 DAT respectively. Among flowering parameters T9 (GA3 100 ppm - control) recorded maximum days taken to flower initiation (58.14), 50 per cent flowering (65.26), less flower size (6.25 cm), flowers weight (3.90 g), yield (25.67 t) and flower longevity (9.32 days). In the second experiment, the flower stalks were kept in three per cent sucrose solution to study the vase life of flowers influenced by growth regulators and biostimulants in three replications and eighteen treatments in Completely Randomized Block Design. Highest Water uptake (4.01 g), transpirational loss of water (12.10 g), physiological loss in weight (10.56 %), fresh weight change (75.55 %) and vase life (12.08 days) was recorded in the treatment combination of GA.3 200 ppm and Salicylic acid 200 ppm and shortest vase life was recorded in GA3 100 ppm (7.10 days). It can be concluded from the present study, that GA3 in combination with other plant growth regulators and biostimulants has synergistic effect and resulted in higher yield, net returns and post harvest life compared to GA3 applied alone on china aster cv. ‘Arka Archana’. The treatment GA3 200 ppm + Humic acid 0.5 per cent recorded maximum flower yield (25.67 t) followed by GA3 200 ppm + Salicylic acid 200 pm (23.98 t) and the longest vase life was recorded in GA3 200 ppm + Salicylic acid 200 pm (12.08 days). The highest benefit cost ratio (3.87) was recorded in GA3 200 ppm + Humic acid 0.5 per cent followed by GA3 200 ppm + Salicylic acid 200 pm (3.68) and lowest was registered in GA3 100 ppm + Benzyl adenine 100 ppm (2.65).ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF ORGANIC, INORGANIC AND BIOFERTILIZERS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF CAPSICUM UNDER PROTECTED CONDITIONS (Capsicum annum L.)(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-11-11) K. SRINIVAS; Dr. M. HANUMAN NAYAKhe present investigation entitled “Effect of organic, inorganic and bio fertilizers on growth and yield of capsicum under protected conditions (Capsicum annum L.)” was conducted during rabi season of 2018 at the Research Farm, Vegetable research station, RJNR to find out the effect of combination of organic , inorganic nutrients to maximize the productivity and economics of capsicum cultivation under protected condition. The experiment was conducted in Research farm, Vegetable research station, Rajendra nagar with a view to ascertain the effect of organic, inorganic and bio fertilizers individually or in different combinations on the growth and yield characters of capsicum crop. The soil the field was red sandy soil. It was fairly rich in organic matter and had good water percolation capacity. The source of irrigation was drip irrigation system. Rajendra nagar is situated nearby Hyderabad where there is a drastic increase in diurnal temperatures in recent times, where as, the same situation is seen in almost all regions of the state. In this situation protected cultivation is mainly being opted by the farmers all over the state where capsicum proved to be a profitable vegetable crop under protected conditions. But the cost of cultivation of capsicum under protected condition increases as the timely application of fertilizers is mandatory for the crops being grown under protected conditions. So to overcome this situation an alternative solution to RDF application to be substituted with some of the available organic sources such as FYM, Vermicompost, and biofertilizer (Azotobacter) has been used in this experiment either in combinations among themselves or with recommended inorganic sources of fertilizers The twelve treatment combinations were replicated three times in a randomized block design. The NPK fertilizers were applied as urea, SSP and MOP/ha. The seedlings were transplanted on 15.11.2018 and the first picking was started from 05.01.2019. Under growth characters height of plant and number of branches were studied. Under reproductive characters, days taken to first flowering, 50%flowering and days to fruit-set were taken. In yield characters, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight and yield per plant, per square meter and per hectare were studied. Quality of capsicum fruit measured by its ascorbic acid content and chlorophyll content in fruit. Amongst the combined application of organic-cum-inorganic nutrients, T11 having four sources of nutrients was continued to be the best with respect to growth, flowering, fruiting characters, yield, quality and economics also. The second best fertility treatment was T10 having Vermicompost 5 t/ha +Biofertilizer (Azotobactor) + 50% NPK. This was followed by T1 treatment which proved to be the third best treatment. On the other hand, the significantly lowest values of all the rcharacters was obtained from T6 and T7 treatments having half dose of FYM or vermicompost with Azotobacter CONCLUSION In view of the findings and results presented above, it may be concluded that out of the twelve treatments comprising organic-cum-inorganic sources of nutrients, the treatment T11(FYM 10 t/ha + vermicompost 2.5 t/ha + Azotobacter + 50% NPK (N50P30K40) emerged as the best treatment with respect to growth, yield, quality and economic aspects of capsicum var. Indra. SUGGESTIONS Since these results are based on one-year experiment, further trials may be needed to substantiate the results.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON EFFECT OF DIFFERENT PLANTING DATES AND CHEMICAL SPRAYS ON PERFORMANCE OF CHINA ASTER(Callistephus chinensis L.Nees) VARIETIES(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-09-05) K. MOUNIKA REDDY; Dr. A. GirwaniThe present investigation entitled “Studies on effect of Different planting dates and Chemical sprays on performance of China aster (Callistephus chinensis L.Nees) varieties” was carried at Floricultural Research Station, Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during September 2016 to April 2017. The first experiment was executed with an objective to study the performance of China aster varieties under different dates of planting for growth, flowering and seed yield .It was laid in factorial concept with randomized block design replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of six varieties planted at three different dates.The varieties of China aster viz., Arka Aadya, Arka Poornima, Arka Archana, Arka Kamini , Local pink and Local white were planted at three different dates i.e., at 1st fornight of September, October and November during the year 2016 respectively. The objective of the second experiment was to study the effect of different chemicals on seed yield and seed quality attributes in variety Arka Kamini under late planted conditions (month of December). The treatment consisted of application of three chemicals at two concentrations each viz.,. GA₃ (100 ppm,200 ppm), Maleic hydrazide (100 ppm,200 ppm),Boric acid (0.1% and 0.2%).The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with three replications. The study revealed significant differences among the china aster varieties planted at different dates. Among different dates of planting, all the varieties of china aster planted at 1st fortnight of November recorded maximum plant height(32.91cm), plant spread (24.73cm),number of branches(7.94), flower diameter(6.24cm), Average flower weight(3.11g), flower yield plant-1(97.39g),flower yield hectare-1 (10.82 t) whereas the varieties planted at 1st fortnight of October recorded maximum stalk length(16.56 cm), with maximum duration of flowering (43 days) and vase life(9.06 days). Further the seed yield plant-1 (5.58 g) and thousand seed weight (1.40 g) was also highest in this treatment. Among the different varieties Arka Archana recorded maximum number of branches per plant(8.17), number of flowers plant-1 (22.82), maximum vase life days(8.13days) and higher seed yield plant-1(5.98gm/plant) whereas Arka Poornima recorded maximum average flower weight (3.27 g),flower yield plant-1 (70.2 g),flower yield hectare-1 (7.80 t) and thousand seed weight (1.42 g). Among the interaction effects of treatment combinations i.e.,varieties and dates of planting, maximum plant height(43.13 cm),average flower weight(4.86 g),flower yield per plant(167.23 g),flower yield hectare-1 (18.58t),thousand seed weight (1.39 g) was recorded with Arka Poornima planted at 1st fortnight of November whereas the Arka Archana planted at 1st fortnight of October recorded more number of branches(9.85) and higher seed yield plant-1 (8.8g). However the ‘Local white’ planted at 1st fortnight of November and October recorded more number of flowers plant-1 (35.33). The studies on effect of chemical sprays on flowering and seed quality attributes, revealed that Gibberellic acid application at 200 ppm recorded earliest flowering (51days) and minimum days for 50 percent of flowering(62.87 days), maximum stalk length(31.60 cm), flower diameter(5.8cm),more number of flowers(46.30),maximum average flower weight(2.28g),maximum flower yield plant-1 and per hectare(105.54gm/plant,11.73t/hectare).The seed quality attributes like higher seed yield per plant (6.84g),seedling length(4.93cm),vigour index(452.9),Seedling dry weight(17.63mg) was found to be maximum in GA₃ 200 ppm . On the basis of results obtained in the present study, it may be concluded that China aster varieties Arka Archana and Arka Poornima were found to be the best varieties for semi arid tropics of Telangana while planting in 1stfortnight of November is recommended for maximum flower yield, whereas October planting is recommended for getting higher flower quality and seed yield. Chemical spray of GA₃ 200 ppm was found to be effective in attaining higher seed yield and seed quality attributes under late planted conditions (December planting).ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF NITROGEN AND WEED MANAGEMENT PRACTICES ON GROWTH, FLOWERING AND SEED YIELD OF GAILLARDIA (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) UNDER HYDERABAD CONDITIONS(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-09-03) G. PRASHAMSHA; Dr. P. PRASANTHThe present experiment was conducted at Floricultural Research Station, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the year 2018-2019, to study the Effect of different levels of nitrogen and weed management practices on growth, flowering and seed yield of Gaillardia (Gaillardia pulchella Foug.) under Hyderabad conditions. The experiment was carried out under open field condition. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) comprising of 20 treatment combinations with three replication. The treatments consisted of four nitrogen levels i.e. 0 Kg N/ha (N1), 75 Kg N/ha (N2), 150 Kg N/ha (N3), 180 Kg N/ha (N4) and five weed management practices i.e. Black and silver polythene mulch (40 microns), (T1) Paddy straw mulch (T2), Pendimethalin 1kg a.i. /ha + weeding 30 DAT (T3), Weed free control (T4), Control (without weeding) (T5). The growth parameters has increased with the increase in level of nitrogen application up to 180 kg N /ha and resulted in producing maximum plant height (63.11 cm), number of branches per plant (18.31), number of leaves per plant (492.60) and lowest plant height, minimum number of branches and leaves per plant were recorded in (N1) (0 kg/ha) treatment. Application of Pendimethalin at 1.0 kg a.i/ha + weeding 30 DAT (T3) has recorded highest (60.81 cm) plant height and minimum was recorded with (T5) control (without weeding) (48.67). Mulching with black and silver polythene (T1) mulch has recorded maximum number of branches per plant (18.65) and number of leaves per plant (533.41), while the treatment control recorded the minimum number of branches per plant (9.50) and number of leaves (387.50). The interaction effect of different levels of nitrogen and weed management practices was non-significant with regards to plant height, number of branches per plant and number of leaves at 30, 60 and 90 DAT. Among the flowering attributes the nitrogen level of 180 kg N/ha recorded minimum number of days taken for first flower bud appearance (43.53 days), number of days taken for 50% flowering (55.13 days) and increased number of flowers per plant (65.83), flower diameter (6.77 cm), average weight of 10 flowers (29.85), flower yield per plant (193.83 g), flower yield per plot (3.49 kg), flower yield per hectare (165.13 q) compared to other nitrogen levels. Mulching with black and silver polythene mulch (T1) recorded minimum number of days taken for first flower bud appearance (48.43 days), number of days taken for 50% flowering (60.38 days) and increased number of flowers per plant (63.41), average weight of 10 flowers (30.52 g), flower yield per plant (196.33 g), flower yield per plot (3.44), flower yield per hectare (164.39 q), however flower diameter was highest (7.08 cm) in control plot (without weeding) with poor quality of flowers.Interaction effect between the nitrogen levels and weed management practices was found significant for number of days taken for first flower bud appearance (41.00 days), number of days taken for 50% flowering (53.33 days) for the treatment 180 kg nitrogen per ha + black and silver polythene mulch (N4T1). Nitrogen level of 75 kg N/ha (N2) has significantly increased the number of seeds per flower (219.62), weight of seeds per flower (0.280 g), application of 150 kg N/ha has the highest test weight of seeds (1.35 mg), seed yield per plant (16.55), seed yield per plot (291.71 mg) and seed yield per hectare (13.79 kg). Mulching with black and silver polythene mulch had significantly increased the number of seeds per flower (227.70), weight of seeds per flower (0.297 mg), test weight of seeds (1.48 mg), seed yield per plant (18.52 g), seed yield per plot (333.40 mg), seed yield per hectare (15.43 kg) and germination percentage (41.38 %).Interaction effect of different nitrogen levels and weed management practices had significant effect on number of seeds per flower and germination percentage. Weight of seeds per flower recorded maximum (251.66) in nitrogen level 75 kg/ha + black and silver polythene mulch (N2T1). Germination percentage was maximum (48.88 %) in nitrogen level 180 kg/ha + black and silver polythene mulch (N4T1). Minimum weed count per square meter (15.59), dry weight of weeds (2.34 g) was observed in 180 kg N/ha. Weed control efficiency was maximum (62.70 %) in treatment 180 kg N/ha.Mulching with black and silver polythene mulch had significantly minimized the weed count (2.16) and dry weight of weeds (0.71) and maximized the weed control efficiency (94.94 %).The interaction effect of different levels of nitrogen and weed management practices was non-significant with regards to weed count, dry weight of weeds, weed control efficiency. Highest net returns (Rs. 8,92,683) and B: C ratio (3.2) were obtained in treatment 180kg N/ha and mulching with black and silver polythene mulch (N4T1) lowest net returns (Rs. 3,21,323) and B: C ratio (1.45) in treatment 0kg N/ha + control (without weeding). In view of soil parameters the interaction of nitrogen and weed management practices has significant effect on available nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and pH. Application of nitrogen at 180 kg/ha has increased the available nitrogen (110.25 kg), phosphorous (22.90 kg) and potassium (230.86 kg). pH was recorded maximum in 0 kg N/ha (7.82).Mulching with black and silver polythene mulch (T1) recorded maximum available nitrogen (123.05 kg), phosphorous (21.99 kg) and potassium (298.75 kg).Interaction of nitrogen and weed management practices had significant effect on available nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, pH and EC. Nitrogen level of 180 kg N/ha + black and silver polythene mulch (N4T1) had recorded maximum available nitrogen (148.86 kg/ha), Phosphorous (39.60 kg/ha), Potassium (397.33 kg/ha). EC (0.55 %) recorded maximum in nitrogen level 180 kg/ha + paddy straw mulch (N4T2) and pH recorded maximum (8.10) in nitrogen level 75 kg/ha + black and silver polythene mulch (N2T1). On the basis of the results of the present investigation, it can be concluded that, among the different levels of nitrogen and weed management practices, the gaillardia plants nourished with 180kg N/ha and mulched with black and silver polythene mulch resulted in effective and positive influence on vegetative growth, flowering behaviour, seed yield inturn higher B: C ratio.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON THE EFFECT OF GROWING CONDITIONS, SOWING MONTHS AND POSTHARVEST TREATMENTS ON GROWTH, YIELD, QUALITY AND STORAGE OF CARROT (Daucus carota L.) Cv. NEW KURODA(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2019-12-28) J. CHEENA; Dr. NATARAJAN SEENIVASANThe present investigation entitled “Studies on the effect of growing conditions, sowing months and postharvest treatments on growth, yield, quality and storage of carrot (Daucus carota L.)” Cv. New Kuroda” was carried out in five experiments during 2017-18 and 2018-19. The first experiment was carried out with five different sowing dates 2nd week of September, October, November, December, January and February with two growing conditions i.e. open condition and shade net (35%). In second and third experiments storage and quality of carrot was investigated under cold storage (0°C and 90 % RH) and ambient conditions. Six post harvest chemical treatments effects were evaluated in fourth and fifth experiments in cold and ambient storage conditions. The post harvest experiments were carried out at Floriculture Research Station of SKLTSHU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The storage studies were conducted for three months for cold storage and twelve days for ambient conditions. From the experiment-1, different dates of sowing has significant influence on the vegetative growth in terms of leaf length, length of taproot, root diameter, root girth, core thickness, dry matter content, root yield per plant and root yield per plot were recorded highest in October sown crop. Similarly, minimum core thickness and early harvest was also recorded in October sown crop. The quality and organoleptic parameters like cortex to core ratio, root rotting, root forking, colour, taste, appearance and overall acceptability were also recorded significantly highest sown in October month during both the years. The maximum root yield per hectare (25.54 t/ha and 25.35 t/ha) was recorded during first and second year respectively with October sowing. November sowing month also performed well for highest β-carotene, total sugars, reducing sugars, root cracking and texture. Whereas, December sowing month crop recorded maximum TSS and ascorbic acid. Among the two different growing conditions, shade conditions recorded better results during both the years of investigation for shoot growth parameter like leaf length, quality parameters like dry matter content, root cracking, root rotting, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, total sugars and also for colour, appearance and overall acceptability. Whereas the open field condition performed better for shoot growth parameter like number of leaves, root growth and yield parameters like length of tap root, root diameter, root girth, root yield per plant, root yield per plot and root yield per hectare (21.87 t/ha and 22.21 t/ha), root quality parameters like core thickness, cortex to core ratio, root forking, TSS, reducing sugars, colour and appearance during both the years of investigation. The interaction effect of October sowing and open field condition showed better results during both the years (2017-18 and 2018-19) for growth, yield and quality parameters like number of leaves per plant, length of tap root, root diameter, root girth, core thickness, dry matter content, root yield per plant, root yield per plot, root yield per hectare (30.99 t/ha and 31.20 t/ha), root rotting, cortex to core ratio, TSS, β-carotene, total sugars, colour, texture, taste, appearance and overall acceptability, whereas early harvest and highest reducing sugars were recorded in 2017-18 in October sowing in open field condition. December sowing in shade net also showed better results for ascorbic acid content during both the years of study. The treatment combination of December sowing in shade net condition gave higher net returns (Rs. 4,40,870.86 ha-1and Rs. 4,64,987 ha-1) and B:C ratio (5.27 and 5.51) during 2017-18 and 2018-19 respectively. In experiment-2, the treatment October sowing in open field condition (T2) showed better results during both the years (2017-18 and 2018-19) of study regarding physiological loss in weight, firmness, dry matter content, decay, β-carotene, TSS, reducing sugars, colour, texture, taste, appearance and overall acceptability, and total sugars in 2017-18. Whereas, the treatment November sowing in open field condition (T3) recorded maximum ascorbic acid content. The treatment combination of February sowing and open condition gave higher net returns (Rs. 6.34/kg and Rs. 6.35/kg) and B:C ratio (1.29 and 1.30) during 2017-18 and 2018-19 respectively. February sown crop which gave yield in May and after the storage period (90 days i.e August) fetches a better price in the market. From the experiment-3, after 12 days of storage at ambient condition, the treatment October sowing in open field condition (T2) showed better results during both the years (2017-18 and 2018-19) of study regarding quality such as physiological loss in weight, firmness, dry matter content, β-carotene, reducing sugars, total sugars, colour, texture, decay, shelf life and TSS and organoleptic parameters like taste, appearance and overall acceptability. In experiment-4, after 90 days of storage the treatment CaCl2 3 per cent dipping for five minutes (T5) showed better results regarding quality parameters like physiological loss in weight, firmness, dry matter content, colour, texture and organoleptic parameters like taste, appearance and overall acceptability. Whereas, the treatment H2O2 one per cent for one minute dipping (T2) showed less decay and NaOCl2 150 ppm dipping for one minute (T3) recorded high total sugars content. The treatment hot water at 500C dipping for one minute (T1) showed better results during both the years (2017-18 and 2018-19) of study with regard to β-carotene, ascorbic acid, TSS and reducing sugars. During both the years of investigation, the net returns (Rs. 2.537 and 2.539/kg) and B:C ratio (1.153 and 1.153) were higher in the carrots treated with CaCl2 treatment. The results of experiment-5 revealed that, the treatment CaCl2 3 per cent dipping for five minutes (T5) showed better results regarding root quality parameters like physiological loss in weight, firmness, dry matter content, shelf life, colour, texture and organoleptic parameters like taste, appearance and overall acceptability. Whereas, the treatment H2O2 one per cent for one minute dipping (T2) recorded less decay. The treatment (Hot water at 500C dipping for one minute (T1) showed better results during both the years (2017-18 and 2018-19) of study with regard to β-carotene, ascorbic acid, TSS and reducing sugars and total sugars.ThesisItem Open Access VARIABILITY AND POSTHARVEST STUDIES IN GERBERA (Gerbera jamesonii L.) UNDER NATURALLY VENTILATED POLYHOUSE(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2018-02-09) M. VIJAYALAXMI; Dr. A. Manohar RaoThe present investigation entitled “Variability and post harvest studies in gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii L.) under naturally ventilated polyhouse” was carried out during 2015-16 and 2016-2017 at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. A total of four experiments were conducted to estimate genetic variability and post harvest studies in gerbera. The studies were carried out in Randomized block design using 10 genotypes to estimate the genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and to study the direct and indirect effects of yield components on flower yield through path coefficient analysis. The mean performances showed that, number of flowers and its contributing characters viz., plant height (45.46 cm), early flowering (68.00 days), duration of flowering (266.10 days), flower diameter (13.50 cm), flower stalk diameter (7.68 cm), number of ray florets (176.16) and disc diameter (2.40 cm) were found to be the highest in Helix. The genotype ‘Balance’ recorded significantly maximum number of leaves (50.16). Whereas, ‘Savannah’ recorded the highest leaf area (197.92), LAI (0.2193), and length of flower stalk (60.20). Significantly the longest field life (14.16 days), maximum chlorophyll content (75.96), fresh weight of flower (18.33 g) and dry weight of flower (3.35 g) were observed in ‘Goliath’ followed by Helix. The genotype Helix produced the maximum number of flowers (32.80) followed by genotype Goliath (32.40) while the minimum in genotype ‘Montenegro’ (16.00). High PCV and GCV (>20%) were recorded for most of the characters viz., number of leaves per plant, number of ray florets, number of flowers per plant and dry weight of flower. High heritability (>60%) coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean (>20%) was observed in almost all characters except chlorophyll content, days to first flower opening, days to 50% flowering and duration of flowering indicating contribution of additive gene effects in the expression of these traits. The estimates of phenotypic and genotypic correlations revealed that, the number of flowers per plant was strongly and positively associated with the characters namely plant height, leaf length, leaf breadth, number of leaves, leaf area, LAI, number of suckers per plant, chlorophyll content, flower diameter, flower stalk diameter, length of the flower stalk, disc diameter, duration of flowering, field life, fresh weight and dry weight of flower. The result of path coefficient analysis based on correlation coefficients indicated that, the trait leaf area exhibited maximum and significant positive direct effect on number of flowers per plant followed by number of ray florets days to first flower opening, duration of flowering, fresh weight of flower, chlorophyll content, length of flower stalk, field vase life, number of suckers per plant, flower stalk diameter and number of leaves per plant. From the studies of the experiment I, it is observed that the genotype Goliath has recorded more field life of the flowers. Hence, it was used for post harvest studies by using polyamines, ethylene inhibitors and packaging for further studies. Among the polyamine treatments, spermine 1.0 mM recorded best results for almost all the parameters studied and resulted in higher vase life of 10.14 days in cut gerbera cv. Goliath compared to control (4.17 days). In the other experiment with ethylene inhibitors as holding solution, 4% Sucrose + Silver Thiosulfate @ 0.2 mM has resulted in significant increase of vase life of 10.67 days in cut gerbera cv. Goliath compared to control (4.76 days) due to their antimicrobial activity, which reduce the degree of vascular blockage, thus allowing for optimum solution uptake and reducing stem bending. The best treatments of experiment II and III were studied in combination with packaging materials during storage at ambient conditions. Among all the treatments, flower scapes pulsed with 5% sucrose + 1mM spermine and packed in plastic sleeves for whole stalk with 30% ventilation was found best for characters like physiological loss in weight, wilted flowers, percentage of faded flowers, scape bending and flower diameter. Moreover, pulsing with 5% sucrose + 1mM spermine for 24 hours markedly improved the flower quality and may be recommended for storage and transportation to nearby and distant markets.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ON GROWTH, YIELD, QUALITY AND EFFECT OF POST HARVEST TREATMENTS, PACKAGING MATERIALS ON SHELF LIFE AND QUALITY OF PAPAYA (Carica papaya L.) CV. RED LADY UNDER SOUTHERN TELANGANA(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2017-09-18) SRINU BANOTHU; Dr. A. Manohar RaoPresent investigation entitled “Studies on integrated nutrient management on growth, yield, quality and effect of post harvest treatments, packaging materials on shelf life and quality of papaya (Carica papaya l.) cv. Red lady under southern Telangana” was conducted at the P.J.T.S.A.U Horticulture Experimental Field, Agricultural University Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the year 2014 - 15 and 2015-16, respectively. The laboratory work was carried out at Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture Rajendranagar, Hyderabad for quality parameters. The present experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications. In treatment combinations involving different proportions, i.e. T1 - RDF (200 N: 200 P2O5: 250 K2O g/plant), T2 - RDF + 20 kg FYM plant-1, T3 - RDF + 10 kg vermicompost plant-1, T4 - RDF + 5 kg neem cake plant-1, T5 - RDF + 20 kg FYM plant-1 +100g Azotobacter + 100g PSB plant-1, T6 - RDF +10 kg vermicompost + 100g Azotobacter + 100g PSB plant-1, T7 - RDF + 5 kg neem cake + 100g Azotobacter +100g PSB plant-1, T8 - 75% RDF + 20 kg FYM plant-1 + 100g Azotobacter +100g PSB plant-1, T9 - 75% RDF + 10 kg vermicompost + 100g Azotobacter + 100 g PSB plant-1, T10 - 75% RDF + 5 kg neem cake + 100g Azotobacter + 100 g PSB plant-1 were tested in RBD with three replications. The results pertaining to growth parameters, physiological parameters, yield attributes and quality parameters studied in this experiment are as follows. Application of 75% RDF + 10 kg vermicompost + 100g Azotobacter + 100 g PSB plant-1 in T9 treatment recorded higher Plant height both years and pooled respectively (198.78 cm, 226.93 cm and 212.85 cm), Circumference (51.20 cm, 53.77 cm and 52.48 cm), Petiole length ( 52.09 cm, 53.77 cm and 52.93 cm) and Number of leaves (45.38, 48.31 and 46.85), Lowest days taken for first flowering (135.44 days, 143.84 days and 139.64 days), Days taken to fruit maturity (196.11 days, 205.54 days and 200.82 days), highest fruit weight (2018.00 g, 1840.24 g and 1929.12 g), Pulp thickness (2.66 cm, 2.02 cm and 2.34 cm), Fruit length (27.23 cm, 25.45 cm and 26.34 cm), Number of fruits (32.98, 31.45 and 32.22) and Fruit yield (31.34, 32.10 and 31.72 kg plant-1). Whereas quality parameters like lowest Physiological loss in weight (8.81%, 10.61% and 9.71%). Minimum spoilage (48.82%, 42.04% and 45.43%), Higher fruit firmness (8.37 kg cm-2, 8.36 kg cm-2, 8.36 kg cm-2), Higher TSS (11.08 OBrix, 10.75 OBrix and 10.91 OBrix), Higher Total sugars (10.25%, 10.99% and 10.62%), Ascorbic acid (23.63 mg/100g pulp), Lowest titrable acidity (0.13%) was recorded in same treatment T9 - 75% RDF + 10 kg vermicompost + 100g Azotobacter + 100g PSB plant-1. The data in respect to economics of present investigation reveals that the maximum net returns of Rs/- 3, 46,565 with a B: C Ratio of (2.15) was obtained with application of 75% RDF + 10 kg vermicompost + 100g Azotobacter + 100 g PSB plant-1 (T9). In experiment the effect of post harvest treatments with chemicals and growth regulators in papaya had shown the highest Shelf life (15.32 days), Higher firmness (2.03), Lower spoilage (33.49%), Higher total soluble solids in treatment CaCl2 @3.0 % (11.28 OBrix). Lowest physiological loss in weight was recorded in treatment wax emulsion @ 5.0% (14.97%) and which was on par with fruits treated with CaCl2 @ 3.0 % (15.12%). In another experiment with effect of different growth regulators and combination of different packaging materials had shown that lower fruit weight loss (16.35%) in fruits treated with CaCl2@3.0% and packed in news paper and Lower spoilage (51.56 %), Higher firmness (0.87 kg cm-2), Ascorbic acid (46.82 mg/100 g pulp), Non reducing sugars, Higher Shelf life (17.58 days) and followed by fruits treated with GA3 @200 ppm and packed in news paper (16.25 days). Whereas higher total sugars were recorded in fruits dipped in GA3 200 ppm + News paper (9.33%), Higher Reducing sugars (7.58%) recorded in fruits dipped in CaCl2 3.0% + Tissue paper (T2). Minimum titrable acidity (0.01%) was recorded in fruits dipped in CaCl2 3.0% + Tissue paper (T2) and higher total soluble solids in Control.
