Loading...
Thesis
Browse
17 results
Search Results
ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF VARIETIES AND BIOFERTILIZERS APPLICATION ON GROWTH, YIELD, QUALITY AND SHELF LIFE OF STRAWBERRY (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) IN NATURALLY VENTILATED POLYHOUSE(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-12-08) APPANI LAXMAN KUMAR; Dr. K. VANAJALATHAThe present investigation “Studies on the performance of varieties and biofertilizers application on growth, yield, quality and shelf life of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) in naturally ventilated polyhouse” was conducted at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during the year 2018-19 and 2019-20. The study was carried out in a set of three experiments, first one on performance of Strawberry varieties in naturally ventilated polyhouse, second experiment on the effect of biofertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Strawberry varieties and third experiment on effect of different packaging materials on shelf life of Strawberry varieties. In experiment one, varietal performance of Strawberry in naturally ventilated polyhouse was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with six treatments and four replications. The results revealed that, var. Winter Dawn has outperformed over all other varieties for vegetative, flowering, yield and quality parameters. The maximum plant height (25.55 cm), plant spread (35.43 cm east-west) and (38.35 cm north-south), number of runners (5.89) and minimum number of days to runner formation (140) was recorded in var. Winter Dawn. The pooled data also revealed minimum number of days to emergence of first flower (75.43), longest flowering duration (58.29 days), minimum number of days to fifty per cent flowering (103.99), minimum number of days flowering to fruit set(12.35 days), maximum fruit set (84.31%), minimum number of days to maturity (27.88 days) and total number of fruits per plant (13.03). Further, the improvement in physical parameters maximum fruit length (40.0 mm), fruit weight (15.93 g), yield per plant (207.65 g), fruit yield per plot (2.00kg) and yield per hectare (11.34 tha-1) were recorded in var. Winter Dawn. Among the evaluated varieties, var. Sweet Charlie had recorded maximum fruit diameter (3.67 cm), total soluble solids (7.30ºBrix), acidity (0.83%), reducing sugars (4.51%) and total sugars (6.17%) While, var. Winter Dawn had registered maximum ascorbic acid (47.74mg/100g), anthocyanin (63.45 mg/100), minimum albinism disorder (1.42%) and maximum benefit cost ratio (2.29) as per the pooled data. Considering the effect of biofertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Strawberry varieties, the maximum plant height (25.10 cm), plant spread (36.26 cm East-west), (36.56 cm North-south), number of runners per plant (6.60) and minimum number of days to runner formation (135.33) was recorded in var. Winter Dawn. The minimum number of days to 50 per cent flowering (88.38), maximum flowering duration (54.44), minimum number of days from flowering to fruit set (10.39), highest fruit set percentage (74.90 %), maximum fruit length(36.7 mm), maximum fruit weight (16.58 g), fruit diameter (3.40 cm), maximum total number of fruits per plant (13.56) , minimum number of days to maturity (26.18), maximum fruit yield per plant (225.13 g), fruit yield per plot (2.20 kg) and yield per hectare (12.47 tha-1) was recorded in var. Winter Dawn. In case of quality parameters, var. Winter Dawn had recorded maximum total soluble solids (7.17 ºBrix), minimum acidity (0.71%), maximum reducing sugars (4.41 %), total sugars (6.08 %) and anthocyanin (64.40 mg/100g). Similarly, var. Sweet Charlie had maximum ascorbic acid (51.57 mg/100g), total sugars (6.08 %). In case of soil nutrient availability, maximum available nitrogen (310.50 kg/ha), phosphorous (16.79 kg/ha), potassium (171.59 kg/ha) and maximum leaf nitrogen (2.83 %), phosphorous (1.11 %) and potassium (2.82 %) content was observed in var. Winter Dawn. In comparison with different biofertilizers, the application of Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria gave the highest plant height (26.07 cm), maximum plant spread (36.05 cm east-west), (35.82 cm north-south direction), maximum number of runners per plant (5.79), minimum number of days to runner formation after planting (138.83). Similarly, the pooled data revealed that minimum number of days to emergence to first flower (56.11), number of days to 50 per cent flowering (83.29), longest flowering duration (54.09), minimum number of days from flowering to fruit set (9.95), maximum fruit set (73.34 %), fruit length (37.9 mm), fruit weight (16.84 g), fruit diameter (3.42 cm), minimum days to maturity (26.96), maximum total number of fruits per plant (13.31), yield per plant (224.25 g), yield per plot (2.19 kg), yield per hectare (12.42 tha-1) and minimum albinism (2.63%) were recorded with application of biofertilizers Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (each 6 kg/ha). Fruits with maximum total soluble solids (7.06 ºBrix), reducing sugars (4.37 %), total sugars (6.05 %), ascorbic acid (50.73 mg/100g), anthocyanin (62.24 mg/100g) and lower acidity (0.74%) was noticed with application of biofertilizers Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (each 6 kg/ha). The maximum available soil nitrogen (310.62 kg/ha), phosphorous (14.83 kg/ha) and potassium (169.55 kg/ha) was registered in plots applied with Arka Microbial Consortium whereas, maximum leaf nitrogen content (3.08%), phosphorous (1.16 %) and potassium (3.04 %) was also recorded in plots treated with biofertilizers Azotobacter and Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (each 6 kg/ha). The combination of varieties and biofertilizers revealed that significantly maximum fruit weight (17.76 g),total number of fruits (14.62), fruit yield per plant (259.39g), fruit yield per plot (2.54 kg), fruit yield per hectare (14.42 t ha-1) and maximum benefit cost ratio (2.85) was observed with var. Winter Dawn and Azotobacter, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (each 6kg/ha), Whereas, minimum fruit weight (14.83 g), number of total fruits (11.03), fruit yield per plant (163.30 g), fruit yield per plot (1.58 kg) and fruit yield per hectare (8.97 tha-1) was noticed with combination of var. of Shani and No biofertilizer. The modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) was studied using different packaging materials for Strawberry varieties at ambient storage temperature (25ºC). Among packaging materials, low density polyethylene (50 microns) confirmed as most effective packaging material as compared to control. The minimum weight loss (5.47 and 5.80 %), spoilage per cent (13.31 and 13.36 %), maximum ascorbic acid (27.88 and 22.74 mg/100g) and shelf life (3.17 and 3.29 days) was recorded with low density polyethylene 50 microns compared with low density polyethylene 75 microns and control during 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. Considering different varieties, var. Winter Dawn was recorded with minimum physiological loss in weight (6.16 and 6.41%), spoilage per cent (23.37 and 22.12%), maximum total soluble solids(5.93 and 5.94 ºBrix), acidity (0.86 and 0.83 %), reducing sugars (4.67 and 4.73 %), total sugars (5.73 and 5.83 %), non-reducing sugars (1.06 and 1.09 %) and shelf life (2.62 and 2.76 days) at fourth day of storage during 2018-19 and 2019-20, respectively. As per the interactions between varieties and packaging materials, var. Winter Dawn fruits packed in punnets and covered with low density polyethylene 50 microns was recorded lowest physiological loss in weight (5.25 and 5.72 %), minimum spoilage percent (12.70 and 12.03 %), maximum ascorbic acid (33.84 and 27.45 mg/100g) at fourth day of storage during 2018-19 and 2019-20. Similarly, the treatment combination var. Winter Dawn and fruits packed in punnets and covered with low density polyethylene 50 microns recorded maximum benefit cost ratio (5.84). The var. Shani and fruits kept in punnets without any packaging material (control) combination was recorded with maximum physiological loss in weight (8.07 and 8.20 %), spoilage per cent (59.03 and 56.73 %) and minimum ascorbic acid content (14.59 and 16.76 mg/100g) at fourth day of storage during 2018-19 and 2019-20. In varietal evaluation, var. Winter Dawn (V1) has performed best among all other varieties for vegetative, flowering and yield parameters. The var. Winter Dawn biofertilizers Azotobacter, Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (each 6 kg/ha) combination (V1B3) noticed as most excellent for growth, yield and quality. The var. Winter Dawn fruits packed in punnets and covered with low density polyethylene 50 microns (V1P2) showed lowest physiological loss in weight, spoilage per cent and proved as best packing material in increasing the shelf life of strawberry fruits.ThesisItem Open Access GENETIC INVESTIGATION FOR YIELD AND YIELD ATTRIBUTES AND YVMV RESISTANCE IN OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-11-08) ULLANGULA SRAVANTHI; Dr. B. NEERAJA PRABHAKAR; Dr. Manohar Rao; Dr. P. Saidaiah; Dr. D. LAKSHMINARAYANAThe present investigation entitled “Genetic investigation for yield and yield attributing traits and YVMV resistance in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)” was undertaken in experimental farm at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad from Kharif, 2016 to Kharif, 2017. The aim of investigation was to study the genetic divergence, genetic variability, correlation, path coefficients, heterosis and combining ability for yield, yield components and YVMV resistance in okra. Genetic divergence was studied with 32 genotypes during Kharif, 2016 using Randomized Block Design (RBD) replicated twice for 13 characters viz., plant height (cm), days to initiation of first flowering, days to 50% flowering, number of branches per plant, fruit length (cm), diameter of fruit (cm), weight of fruit (g), number of fruits per plant, number of fruits per plot, fruit yield per plant (g), fruit yield per hectare (t), fiber content (%), overall YVMV PDI (%). The Mahalanobis’s (1957) D2 statistic divided 32 genotypes into six clusters. Based on this study superior genotypes viz., RHBG- 1, RHBG- 7, VRO 6, IC-42490, IC-10265, IC-111515, Arka Abhay, Pusa A-4, IC-29119 and RHBG-12 as lines and other three genotypes viz., IC-90219, IC-04328 and EC-755647 as testers were selected for hybridization programme as they were expected to result in high heterotic crosses. Genetic variability revealed a lot of variation among the genotypes. In general, the lowest difference in phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation indicates lowest environmental influence in controlling the expression of the traits. Based on genetic variability studies, high PCV and GCV and high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for plant height (cm), number of fruits per plant, number of fruits per plot and overall YVMV PDI (%) indicating the existence of wider genetic variability for these traits in the germplasm under study. Correlation ad path coefficient analysis studies revealed that fruit yield per plant exhibited high significant positive association with, plant height, fruit length, weight of fruit and number of fruits per plant indicating the importance of these traits in selection for yield. Direct selection based on these traits would result in simultaneous improvement of aforesaid traits and yield per se in okra. Path analysis studies revealed high direct effect of days to initiation for first flowering, number of branches per plant, fruit length, weight of fruit and number of fruits per plant and also recorded desirable direction with yield. Hence, the genotypes which exhibited better performance for these characters can be used in further improvement of okra. Thirtreen parental lines thus identified based on per se performance and genetic investigation methods were crossed in Line x tester during Summer, 2017. The resultant 30 direct crosses along with 10 lines, three tester parents and three checks (Arka Anamika, MH-10 and Pusa Mukhmali) were evaluated in Kharif, 2017-18 for combining ability, heterosis so as to identify promising F1 hybrids with high productivity, good fruit quality and resistance to YVMV for commercial exploitation. Appreciable heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis was found for all the traits studied in desirable direction. The maximum positive heterosis was observed in the cross Arka Abhay X IC-90219 over better parent (67.72 %), mid parent (48.27%) and the commercial check (54.05 %) for total yield per hectare. Three crosses Arka Abhay X IC-90219, IC-29119 X IC-90219 and IC-111515 X IC-04328 showed significant heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis in order of merit for fruit yield per hectare (t). The top three heterotic hybrids, manifesting significantly positive heterosis of (67.72%, 62.58% and 30.30 %), heterobeltiosis of 48.27 %, 43.34% and 10.47 % and standard heterosis of 54.05 %,49.85 %, 14.15 % over Arka Anamika; 68.44 %, 63.85 %, 24.81 % over MH-10; 66.58 %, 62.04 %,23.44 % over Pusa Mukhmali for in order of merit for yield per hectare (t). The top three heterotic hybrids manifested significantly positive average heterosis and heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis respectively for fruit yield per hectare (t). Hence, they should be considered in future breeding programme (pedigree) for multi-trait improvement. The line Arka Abhay for plant height (cm), days to initiation of first flowering, days to 50% flowering, number of branches per plant, fruit length (cm), diameter of fruit (cm), weight of fruit (g), number of fruits per plant, number of fruits per plot, fruit yield per plant (g), fruit yield per hectare (t), fiber content (%), overall YVMV PDI (%), IC-90219 for plant height (cm), days to initiation of first flowering, fruit length (cm), diameter of fruit (cm), weight of fruit (g), number of fruits per plant, number of fruit per plot, fruit yield per plant (g), fruit yield per hectare (t), fiber content (%), overall YVMV PDI (%), IC-111515 for plant height (cm), days to initiation for first flowering, days to 50% flowering, fruit length (cm), weight of fruit (g), number of fruits per plant, number of fruits per plot, fruit yield per plant (g), fruit yield per hectare (t), overall YVMV PDI (%) were identified as good general combiners. In order of merit the crosses Arka Abhay X IC-90219, IC-29119 X IC-90219 and IC-111515 X IC-04328 were identified as good specific combiners. The present study reveals good scope for commercial exploitation of heterosis in okra. The results obtained by screening the okra genotypes for resistance against YVMV disease under natural conditions recorded that out of 32 genotypes, only one genotype (IC-90219) was immune or free from YVMV disease incidence whereas four genotypes (IC-04328, IC-29119, EC-755647 and RHBG-12) were highly resistant and recorded score 1. The minimum incidence of YVMV disease was observed in two hybrids viz, IC-29119 X IC-90219 and Arka Abhay X IC-90219 recorded highly resistance (score 1), nine hybrids RHBG-1 X IC-90219, RHBG-1 X IC-04328, RHBG-7X IC-90219, VRO 6 X IC-90219, IC-42490 X IC-90219, IC-10265 X IC-90219, IC-111515 X IC-90219, IC-111515 X IC-04328, Pusa A-4 X IC-90219 recorded moderate resistance (score 2). None of the hybrids were found to be immune. The YVMV disease resistance genotypes IC-90219, IC-04328, IC-29119 and RHBG-1 with low disease incidence values can be further tested in hotspots like Autur in Tamil Nadu, Panipat, and Sagadhalpur in Haryana, Gujarath and Bhubaneswar in Odisha where actual potential of hybrid/ genotypes and disease reaction to YVMV to substantiate their potentiality. Identified promising hybrids viz., Arka Abhay X IC-90219, IC-29119 X IC-90219, can be tested further in multilocation trial to substantiate their potentiality and stability over varied agroclimatic conditions.ThesisItem Open Access EFFECT OF IRRIGATION, FERTIGATION AND MULCHING ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF MANGO (Mangifera indica L.) Cv. BANGANPALLI(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-10-04) GUVVALI THIRUPATHAIAH; Dr. A. BHAGWANA set of two experiments were conducted 1). To study the effect of different irrigation (100% ETc and 75% ETc) and mulching (with plastic mulching and without mulching), 2). To study the effect of different levels of irrigation [I1-control (farmer practice of irrigation 1200 litter at 10 days intervals); I2-75%, I3-100% and I4-125% ETc at daily intervals) and fertilization [F1-farmer practice of application of 100% (500 g) N and K through soil (fruits at marble size), F2- 50% (250 g), F3- 50% (375 g) and F4-50% (500 g) N and K were applied through fertigation in three equal split doses from fruits at marble size at 15 days intervals till fruits reached 200 g weight] along with mulching on fruit yield and quality of mango cv. Banganpalli, was conducted at Sathapur (Village), Kollapur (Division), Nagarkurnool (Dist.), Telangana state, during 2017-2019. In both experiments the statistical design adopted was randomized block design with factorial concept with five replications in 1st experiment and three replications in 2nd experiment. In both experiments fruits set per panicle (%), fruit retention per panicle (%), fruit physical properties [fruit length (cm), diameter (cm) weight (g) and fruit volume (cm3)], number days from fruit set to fruit maturity, number of fruits tree-1, fruit yield (kg tree-1) and quality attributes (ascorbic acid, TSS, sugars, fruit firmness, DA-index, respiration rate and shelf life) were recorded. In the first experiment in red sandy loam soil the increased level of irrigation (100% ETc) has resulted in 15.6% significantly yhe highest fruit yield which might be due to increased fruit set (8.58%), fruit retention (6.94%), fruit weight (405 g) and number of fruits tree-1 (194) as compared to 75% ETc. The increased fruit yield might be due to increased leaf nutrient reserves (0.86:0.20:0.96% NPK) as a result of increased NUE (78.83 kg kg-1) in the presence of high soil moisture content (12.2-14.6%). Further, the mulching treatments have resulted in significantly 23.75% highest fruit yield, which might be due to increased fruit set (9.25%), fruit retention (7.26%), fruit weight (410 g) and number of fruits tree-1 (201) when compared to without mulching. The increased fruit set, fruit retention, fruit physical parameter and fruit number may xxiii be due to increased soil moisture availability (11-14%) and nutrient absorption had lead improved leaf nutrient reserves (0.91:0.19: 0.89% NPK). Furthermore, these increased leaf nutrient reserves might have resulted in quality attributes like highest ascorbic acid (41.0 mg 100g-1), TSS (17.69 Brix), total sugars (13.48%), the maximum fruit firmness and delayed respiration rate, which has resulted in increased shelf life (12.3 days) of mango cv. Banganpalli under sandy loam soils. In red sandy loam soil condition the application of irrigation at 100% ETc along with mulching treatments has resulted in 35.83% significantly higher fruit yield which might be due to the increased fruit set (9.25%), fruit retention (7.26%), fruit weight (410 g) and number of fruits tree-1 (201) as compared to 100% ETc + without mulching. Further, the increased irrigation (100% ETc) along with mulching might have ensured higher soil moisture content (13.5-16.6%), which might have resulted in increased nutrient absorption (leaf NPK 1.11:0.21:0.91%) which ultimately resulted in increased WUE (5.54 kg m-3), NUE (89.11 kg kg-1) and BCR (2.07) as compared to 100% ETc + without mulching. Further the same treatment ensured the higher fruit quality attributes like TSS (18.12 Brix) ascorbic acid (49.00 mg 100 g-1) total sugars (15.35%), the maximum fruit firmness, DA-index and delayed respiration rate, which has resulted in significantly increased shelf life (13.7 days) of mango. Further, in red sandy loam soil the application of 75% ETc along with mulching had resulted highest fruit yield (75.8 kg tree-1) and BCR (1.76) which was on par with 100% ETc+ without mulching (68.6 kg tree-1). Hence, it was concluded that application of 75% ETc along with mulching has saved 25% water along with higher BCR without compromising the fruit quality as compared to100% ETc+ without mulching. In the second experiment under red sandy loam soils the highest irrigation level (125% ETc) has resulted in 41.22% significantly higher fruit yield due to increased fruit set (10.8%), fruit retention (11.6%), fruit weight (477 g) and number of fruits tree-1 (282) as compared to control (farmer practice of irrigation). This might be due to increased leaf nutrient reserves (1.00:0.18:0.98% NPK) which may be a result of increased WUE (6.51 kg m-3) and NUE (162.52 kg kg-1) in the presence of high soil moisture content (19-21%) as compared to control (I1). Further, the application of 100% N and K through fertigation had significantly increased the nutrient use efficiency (154 kg kg-1) as compared to farmer practice of fertilization (F1)(80 kg kg-1) in red sandy loam soils. Further, this increased NUE might have resulted in increased fruit set (10.53%), fruit retention (13.14%), fruit yield parameter like increased fruit weight (509 g) and number fruits tree-1 (303) which ultimately resulted in 48% higher fruit yield (154 kg tree-1) as compared to farmer practice of fertilization (F1). Further, the same treatment has resulted in increased leaf nutrient reserves (1.03:0.22:0.93% NPK). These increased leaf nutrient reserves might have contributed the increased fruit quality attributes like the maximum amount total sugars (14.98%), ascorbic acid (53.11 mg 100-1), the maximum fruit firmness, DA-index and delayed respiration rate, which has resulted in significantly increased shelf life (13.08 days) of mango cv. Banganpalli as compared to farmer practice of fertilization (F1). xxiv Under red sandy loam soil condition the combined application of 125% ETc and 75% N and K through fertigation along with mulching had resulted in significantly 60% higher fruit yield as compared to I1F1 (farmer practice). The increased fruit yield might be due to the same treatment has resulted higher fruit weight (549.0 g) and number of fruits tree-1 (364). This treatment also resulted in higher soil moisture content (18-20%), which might have resulted in increased WUE (8.62 kg m-3), NUE (226.50 kg kg-1) and BCR (3.77) as compared to I1F1 (farmer practice). Further the same treatment ensured higher fruit quality attributes like TSS (18.5 Brix) ascorbic acid (50.00 mg 100 g-1) total sugars (14.48%), the maximum fruit firmness (3.33 kg cm-2 on 12th day of fruit storage), DA-index (6.8 on 12th day of fruit storage) and delayed respiration rate, which has resulted in significantly increased shelf life (14.75 days) of mango cv. Banganpalli as compared I1F1 (farmer practice). Further, underwater scared condition application of 75% ETc + 100% N and K through fertigation would also give the 55% higher fruit yield as compared to I1F1 (farmer practice) in red sandy loam soils. This indicating that, in red sandy loam soils the application of 75% ETc + 100% N and K has saved 25% water along with higher BCR (3.41) without compromising the fruit quality as compared to I1F1 (farmer practice) treatment (BCR 1.88).ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON GENETIC DIVERGENCE, HETEROSIS, COMBINING ABILITY ANALYSIS AND RAPD BASED PROFILING OF GENOTYPES FOR YIELD, YIELD COMPONENTS AND QUALITY IN ASHWAGANDHA (Withania somnifera L.)(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-07-15) SRIPATHI VENUGOPAL; Dr. M. PADMAThe present investigation entitled “Studies on genetic divergence, heterosis, combining ability analysis and RAPD based profiling of genotypes for yield, yield components and quality in ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L.)” was undertaken to identify diverse parents based on morphological and molecular level, study the combining ability and heterosis for root yield and yield components in ashwagandha. Twenty nine (29) genotypes were sown in a Randomized Block Design with three replications to evaluate genetic divergence during Kharif, 2018 and Rabi, 2018-19 at Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research Station, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. On the basis of the mean performance of the genotypes for the traits studied, NMITLI- 101 was superior for yield and yield contributing characters i.e., fresh root weight per plant (27.50 g), dry root weight per plant (12.76 g), main root length (20.00 cm) and root diameter (2.36 cm). the genotypes Poshita (0.46%) and CIM-Pratap (0.44%) were found to be superior for alkaloid content in roots. The genotype Poshita recorded highest starch fiber ratio (0.43). Based on genetic variability studies, high PCV and GCV and high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded in plant height, leaf width, leaf length, days to flower initiation, fresh leaf weight per plant, dry leaf weight per plant, number of berries per plant, seed yield per plant, seed yield per hectare, main root length, number of secondary roots per plant, fresh root weight per plant, dry root weight per plant, fresh root yield per hectare, dry root yield per hectare, starch content, fiber content, starch fiber ratio, total alkaloid content indicating the existence of wider genetic variability for these traits in the germplasm under study. Correlation and path coefficient analysis studies revealed that root length, root diameter, leaf weight and days to flower initiation showed positive correlation and positive high direct effect on dry root yield per plant and these are identified as superior yield components. Hence, the genotypes which exhibited better performance for these characters can be used in further improvement of ashwagandha. The traits viz., days to flower initiation, fresh leaf weight per plant, seed yield per plant, number of berries per plant, fresh root weight per plant and root diameter were the major contributors towards divergence. Based on Mahalanobis D2 analysis, 29 genotypes were grouped into 11 clusters. The pattern of distribution of genotypes into various clusters revealed that there was no relationship between geographical distribution and genetic diversity. Greater genetic divergence between clusters X and XI followed by VI and X, suggested exploitation of these clusters by intermating genotypes in a definite breeding design to explore the fullest range of heterosis and to realize good recombinant lines. Cluster analysis using RAPD markers revealed that the 29 genotypes were grouped into 8 clusters, the diversity of these genotypes was also seen in phenotypical cluster analysis by tocher's method. Considerable genetic diversity among the 29 ashwagandha genotypes was observed at both the morphological and molecular levels, which is of importance for germplasm classification, management, and further utilization to obtain promising cultivars. Based on the above studies which were path analysis, inter cluster distances, cluster means and per se performance, genotypes RAS-7, IC-286632, MWS-218, IC-310595, AKAS-10, RAS-65, Poshita, CIM-Pratap and NMITLI- 101 were selected for hybridization programme as they were expected to result in high heterotic crosses. Six superior lines (RAS-7, IC-286632, MWS-218, IC-310595, AKAS-10 and RAS-65) thus identified were crossed with three testers including check (Poshita (check), CIM-Pratap and NMITLI-101) in Line × Tester mating design during Summer, 2019. The resultant 18 crosses along with nine parents (including check) were evaluated in Kharif, 2019 at the same location (MAPRS, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad) for heterosis and combining ability so as to identify the promising F1 hybrids with high productivity and good root quality for commercial exploitation. The analysis of variance revealed that the variance due to treatments exhibited highly significant for all the characters. In case of parents significant differences were exhibited for all the traits studied except for berry diameter. The ratios of GCA / SCA variances revealed that non-additive gene action was predominant for number of branches per plant, leaf length (cm), leaf width (cm), days to flower initiation, days to fruit formation, days to root harvest, number of berries per plant, berry diameter, seed yield per plant, seed yield per hectare, main root length, diameter of root, number of secondary roots per plant, crude fiber estimation, starch content, starch and fiber ratio, and total alkaloid content. Hence, heterosis breeding is ideal to improve these traits in ashwagandha genotypes. Additive gene action was predominant for plant height, fresh leaf weight per plant, dry leaf weight per plant, number of seeds per berry, fresh root weight per plant and dry root weight per plant. Hence, direct selection by pure line selection or progeny selection or hybridization and selection with pedigree method could be employed to improve these traits. The gca effects of the parents revealed that three lines viz., RAS-65, IC-286632 and IC-310595 and two testers NMTLI-101and Poshita were found to be promising general combiners for dry root yield per plant, Alkaloid content and most of the other traits. Hence, these inbreds are to be utilized for potential application in crop improvement programmes. Based on significant sca effects, four hybrids viz., AKAS-10 × Poshita, RAS-7 × CIM-Pratap, RAS-65 × NMTLI- 101, IC-310595 × Poshita were identified as promising for fresh and dry root yield per plant, alkaloid content and most of the other traits. Significant and standard heterosis over check Poshita for dry root yield per plant was recorded in four hybrids viz., AKAS-10 × Poshita, RAS-7 × CIM-Pratap, RAS-65 × NMTLI-101and IC-310595 × Poshita showed high and significant standard heterosis. Keeping in view of the above facts, by considering all the factors like mean performance, sca effects, standard heterosis the most promising hybrids were RAS-65 × Poshita, RAS-7 × NMTLI-101, RAS-65 × NMTLI-101 and IC-310595 × Poshita for high fresh and dry root yield per plant, high alkaloid content and high starch fiber ratio as in ashwagandha genotypes taken for the study.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON EVALUATION OF TURMERIC (Curcuma longa L.) GENOTYPES, DIFFERENT PLANTING MATERIAL, SOWING METHODS ON GROWTH, YIELD, QUALITY AND USE OF BIOCONTROL AGENTS ON RHIZOME ROT IN TELANGANA(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-08-13) B. ANITHA; Dr. M. PADMAThe present investigation entitled “Studies on evaluation of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) genotypes, different planting material, sowing methods on growth, yield, quality and use of biocontrol agents on rhizome rot in Telangana” was undertaken to identify diverse parents, for yield and yield components in Turmeric. The experiment was carried out during kharif from 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Turmeric research station, Kammarapally, Nizamabad District, Telangana. The experiment on germplasm evaluation was laid out in simple RBD where as other two experiments were conducted in factorial randomized block design data were recorded at 30-day interval up to 180 days after planting and while data on yield and quality aspects after harvesting. The correlation was observed among the growth parameters and yield components such as Primary Rhizome length, Number of mother rhizomes, Duration (Number of days), Number of rhizome clumps/plant, Number of primary rhizomes plant-1, Number of secondary rhizomes plant-1, Size of mother rhizomes (cm3), Size of primary rhizomes (cm3), Weight of mother rhizome, Weight of finger rhizome were observed to have predominant effect on fresh rhizome yield/plant. Hence, there is an ample scope in the improvement of yield by selecting a genotype having higher values of above mentioned parameters. The variability studies revealed that GCV was higher than the PCV corresponding for all the traits indicating that all characters had interacted with environment to some degree. High PCV and GCV were recorded for, weight of finger rhizomes, chlorophyll content and curcumin content indicating the existence of wider genetic variability for these traits in the genotypes under study. On the other side, PCV and GCV estimates were low for traits viz., Number of shoots/tiller, Number of leaves/ shoot, leaf disposition, leaf Petiole length (cm), leaf lamina length (cm), leaf lamina width, number of mother rhizomes, internode pattern (cm) and Number of secondary rhizomes plant-1.The variability in respect of other characters viz., plant height and duration was found to be moderate variability. Mahalanobis D2 statistics revealed that considerable genetic diversity exists within and among the four clusters. The characters rhizome length (58%) size of mother rhizomes (58%), showed that the variation among genotypes. In addition to genetic divergence, considering the mean performance and horticulturally desirable attributes, five genetically distant lines viz., Selam, Acc-94, Tekurpet, Lakadong, and Kasturi avidi, were selected as parents from cluster II, cluster III, cluster IV and cluster V for development of hybrids. Among the interaction effects between different types of varieties and different biofertilizers, Selam along with the application of Trichoderma viridae recorded significantly the highest values in different parameters at almost all growth stages. Growth characters like the plant height (158.67 cm ), number of tillers (4.67), number of leaves (15.83),leaf area (1002.97 cm2), leaf area index (334.32 cm2), biomass of the plant (992.89 g m-2), number of mother rhizomes (3.00), number of primary rhizomes (10.34), number of secondary rhizomes (17.83), size of mother rhizomes (52.25cm3), size of primary rhizomes (25.10cm3), size of secondary rhizomes (11.98cm3), fresh weight of rhizomes clump-1(232.89 g), dry weight of rhizomes clump-1 (85.37 g), rhizome yield ha-1(285.93kg ha-1), curcumin content (5.24 %), curing (20.55%), Antioxidant %(4.24%) were recorded with the Selam along with the application of Trichoderma viridae. Among the interaction effects between different types of planting material and different methods of sowing, mother rhizomes along with the Raised bed method of planting recorded significantly the highest values in different parameters at almost all growth stages. Growth characters like the plant height (160.03 cm ), number of tillers (5.83), number of leaves (13.0),leaf area (3652.73 cm2), leaf area index (1217.58 cm2), biomass of the plant (991.48g m-2), number of mother rhizomes (2.0), number of primary rhizomes (10.50), number of secondary rhizomes (17.17), size of mother rhizomes (51.85cm3), size of primary rhizomes (25.52cm3), size of secondary rhizomes (12.46cm3), fresh weight of rhizomes clump-1(239.12 g), dry weight of rhizomes clump-1 (81.14 g), rhizome yield ha-1(285.02 kg ha-1), curcumin content (5.18 %), curing (20.34%), uptake were recorded with the mother rhizomes in combination with raisedbed method of planting. In terms of B:C ratio, Application of Biofertilizers can obtain maximum B:C ratio. By practicing application of biofertilizers can ultimately increase yield and it leads to higher returns by reducing incidence of rhizome rot. use of Mother rhizomes by planting on raised bed can obtain maximum B:C ratio as well as Primary rhizomes with Raised bed can obtain optimum B:C ratio. By reducing the size of planting material can ultimately reduce only cost of planting material in turmeric.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON THE EFFECT OF POST HARVEST HANDLING TECHNIQUES ON EXTENSION OF VASE LIFE OF ROSE (Rosa hybrida L.) Cv. TAJMAHAL(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-03-24) B. SRAVAN KUMAR; Dr. A. GirwaniThe present investigation entitled “Studies on the effect of post harvest handling techniques on extension of vase life of cut rose (Rosa hybrida L.) Cv. Tajmahal” was carried out in the Post Graduate Laboratory of College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during year 2017-18 and 2018-2019. The study was carried out in seven experiments on effect of post harvest application of different floral preservatives and packaging materials on extension of vaselife of cut rose cv. Tajmahal. The data was recorded on the physical, physiological and biochemical parameters along with the microbial count. The observations were recorded on every alternate day during vase life evaluation. All the experiments were carried out in completely randomized block design with factorial concept and replicated thrice. The first experiment was conducted to study the effect of different concentrations of sucrose and stages of harvest of flowers on vase life of cut rose. The flowers were held in different concentrations of sucrose solutions with flowers harvested at two stages i.e tight bud stage and first petal unfurl stage. The study revealed that post harvest application of 6% sucrose in vase solution for the flowers harvested at tight bud stage was the best treatment and the vase life was extended up to 6.50 days under ambient conditions when compared to 4.00 days in flowers harvested at first petal unfurl stage. In the second experiment, among the different anti transpirants studied, the flowers harvested at tight bud stage and held in 6% sucrose + 4% ethyl alcohol proved to be best treatment for improving the flower quality and vase life of 8.29 days over 6.00 days in control. Flowers recorded highest fresh weight with maximum water uptake, relative water content, and diameter of flower. Further the biochemical parameters such as TSS, and anthocyanin content of petals was maximum in this treatment while the analysis of vase solution revealed minimum optical density and electrolytic leakage. The microbial count was minimum and flowers remained fresh throughout the vase life period under evaluation. In the third experiment the usage of essential oils showed promising results in improving the quality and vase life of cut roses. Among various essential oils studied, post harvest application of 6% sucrose + 75 ppm geranium on roses harvested at tight bud stage increased vase life up to 10.10 days when compared to 6.00 days untreated flowers harvested at first petal unfurl stage. Geranium oil imparted highest increase in fresh weight, water uptake TSS of petals, diameter of flower, relative water content of petals, anthocyanin content of petals, more freshness and least microbial count and electrolytic leakage over control flowers. The results of the fourth experiment revealed that the flowers harvested at tight bud stage and held in 6% sucrose + 150 ppm aluminium sulphate recorded proper water relations, increased physical parameters like TSS, diameter of flower and biochemical parameters like anthocyanin content , chlorophyll content etc. It also imparted maximum freshness with a vase life of 12.00 days followed over 6.00days in control. The study on effect of two Polyamines viz., spermine and spermidine as flower preservatives in the fifth experiment revealed that, spermine was more effective than spermidine in extending the vase life of roses. Application of spermine at 40ppm along with 6 % sucrose on flowers harvested at tight bud stage recorded highest water uptake, water balance, TSS of petals, diameter of flowers, highest anthocyanin content, chlorophyll content of calyx, maximum freshness and highest vase life of 7.61 days over 6.00 days in control . The microbial examination under transition electron microscope of the rose flowers treated with aluminium sulphate @ 150ppm and flower under control (tap water) revealed bacteria and yeast colonies at stem ends in control while there was no such embolism or bacterial cells in aluminium sulphate treated stems indicating that among the preservative chemicals used, 150 aluminium sulphate is the effective biocide in preventing bacterial embolism and increasing the vase life of cut rose cv. Tajmahal. Among the different packaging materials studied, the flowers wrapped in craft paper and packed in corrugated paper boxes with 40% ventilation recorded a least physiological loss in weight and there was maximum increase in flower size, TSS of petals and a highest storage life of 7.73 days at ambient conditions when compared to 6.00 days in control. On the basis of results obtained in the present study, it is concluded that, in order to enhance the storage life of roses at ambient conditions, the cut rose flowers of cv. Tajmahal were to be pulsed with 6% sucrose + 150 ppm Aluminium sulphate for 1 hour and transported with wrapped in craft paper and packed in cardboard paper box with 40 per cent.ThesisItem Open Access STUDIES ON EFFECT OF INTEGRATED NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT ON GROWTH, YIELD, QUALITY AND POSTHARVEST BEHAVIOUR AS INFLUENCED BY PLANT EXTRACTS, NATURAL ETHYLENE SOURCES AND PACKAGING MATERIALS ON BANANA Cv. GRAND NAINE (AAA)(Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticulture University, Mulugu, Siddipet (Dist.), College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, 2021-03-01) PULI TANUJA; Dr. K. VANAJALATHAThe present investigation “Studies on effect of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield, quality and postharvest behavior as influenced by plant extracts, natural ethylene sources and packaging materials on banana cv. Grand Naine” was carried out during 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 at Horticultural Research Station, Aswaraopet, Bhadadri District. The first experiment was carried by planting tissue culture banana cv. Grand Naine plants at spacing of 1.8x1.8m with eleven treatment combination which includes fertigation levels viz. 100 per cent, 75 per cent and 50 per cent of recommended dose of fertilizers with combination of different organics like arka microbial consortium, arka banana special, neem cake, jeevamrutham with and without bunch covering which was conducted as a integrated study for main and ratoon crop with Randomized Block Design (RBD) and replicated thrice. The second experiment was postharvest study done mainly for assessing the shelf life and ripening behaviour by using different plant extracts viz., aloe vera gel extract, neem leaf extract, ginger rhizome extract and natural ethylene sources viz., apple, sapota, papaya, tomato, banana and third experiment was carried out by taking first best three treatments of second experiment along with packaging (High density polythene bags, biodegradable polythene bags and brown paper bags) and without packaging in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. From the field study, for both main and ratoon crop fertigation along with the combination of organic nutrients influenced growth, yield and quality attributes of banana main crop. For all the growth characters like pseudostem height, pseudostem girth, functional leaves, leaf length, leaf breadth, leaf area and leaf area index and number of suckers, the results were found to be maximum in treatment which received 75 per cent fertigation with combination of all organic nutrients and minimum results were observed with Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (RDF). The flowering parameters viz. early shooting (210.70 days) less number of days (90.74 days) from shooting to harvesting and fruit parameters viz. maximum number of hands per bunch (10.17), finger length (20.38 cm), finger girth (13.88cm), finger weight (135.41g), weight of hand (4.10 kg) and highest bunch weight and total yield (28.82 kg and 86.89 t/ha respectively) obtained in treatment with 75 per cent fertigation with combination of all organic nutrients in main crop of banana. Whereas minimum number of hands per bunch (7.77) finger length (16.40cm), finger girth (8.04cm), finger weight (98.67g) ,weight of hand (2.83 kg), fruit yield (24.01kg/pl and 72.77 t/ha) was obtained with fertigation and no organic sources in main crop of banana. For the ratoon crop, maximum number of hands per bunch (10.74), finger length (18.80cm) finger girth (13.98cm), finger weight (138.09 g), weight of hand (3.94 kg), yield per plant and per hectare (28.03 kg/pl and 86.49 t/ha respectively) observed in treatment with 75 per cent fertigation with combination of all organic nutrients over all the treatments. With respect to quality parameters and benefit cost ratio the superior results were found with same treatment combination for main and ratoon crop of banana. Regarding, the effect of different plant extracts and natural ethylene sources and their interactions were found significantly differing among the treatments in main and ratoon crop. Among the different interactions treatment with combination of aloe vera gel extract and tomato in main and ratoon crop showed the lowest physiological loss in weight (1.65 and 2.32 per cent ), slowest change in fruit colour (1.16 and 1.09), no spoilage, highest firmness (3.49 and 4.58 kg/cm2), peel thickness (3.46 and 3.56 mm), pulp to peel ratio (1.99 and 2.09), highest (24.33 and 24.00) shelf life, more days of ripening (11.49 and 11.45),total soluble solids (7.99 and 7.98 0Brix), reducing, non reducing and total sugar (2.43, 7.38 and 9.02per cent and 2.32, 7.33 and 9.22 per cent),ascorbic acid (7.73 and 8.52 mg/100 g) and lowest were recorded with rhizome extract of ginger and in control on 3rd day of storage. On 18th day of storage treatment with combination of aloe vera gel extract and tomato showed the lowest physiological loss in weight (13.47 and 12.28 per cent), slowest change in fruit colour (5.71 and 4.32), spoilage (5.26 and 5.28), highest firmness (2.45 and 4.58 kg/cm2) , peel thickness (1.62 and 2.22 mm), pulp to peel ratio (3.44 and 3.40), total soluble solids (14.49 and 14.26 0Brix ), reducing, non reducing and total sugars (9.77, 9.80 and 19.57 per cent and 7.84, 10.09 and 25.77 per cent), ascorbic acid (4.21 and 4.54 mg/100 g) and lower results were noticed in rhizome extract of ginger and control in main and ratoon crop of banana respectively. The effect of different plant extracts natural ethylene sources, packaging materials and their interactions found to be significantly differing among the treatments. Among the different treatment interactions in main and ratoon crop during initial days of treatment, 1st best of second experiment with high density polythene bags showed the lowest physiological loss in weight (1.77 and 1.73 per cent ), no spoilage, highest firmness (4.55 and 3.70 kg/cm2) , peel thickness (3.91 and 3.47 mm), pulp to peel ratio (2.83 and 1.91) long ,(24.33 and 24.67) shelf life, more (11.49 and 10.86) days of ripening, total soluble solids (8.08 and 8.02 0Brix), reducing, non reducing and total sugars (2.18, 7.14 and 9.16 per cent and 2.31, 8.00 and 9.55 per cent) ascorbic acid (5.92 and 6.21 mg/100 g) on 3rd day of storage. Minimum results were observed in 3rd best of second experiment with no packaging and in control. On 18th day of storage treatment 1st best of second experiment with high density polythene bags showed the lowest physiological loss in weight (13.71 and 13.73 per cent), slowest (4.32 and 5.39) fruit colour, spoilage (3.67 and 5.19), highest firmness (3.12 and 3.70 kg/cm2), peel thickness (1.87 and 1.92 mm), pulp to peel ratio (3.56 and 3.87), total soluble solids (14.09 and 14.72 0Brix),highest (11.72, 10.49 and 22.21 per cent and 11.76, 10.37 and 22.13per cent) reducing non reducing and total sugars and ascorbic acid (4.17 and 3.43 mg/100 g) and lowest results were observed in 3rd best of second experiment with no packaging and in control. In the present study, the integrated use of organics i.e, Arka Microbial Consortium (AMC), neem cake, jeevamrutha, panchagavya and inorganic nutrients through 75 per cent fertigation along with bunch protective measures gave the good results whereas, aloe vera gel extract was found to be promising for increasing the shelf life of banana fruits and apple was found to be good ethylene source for increasing the ripening of fruits in which it can reduce the health hazards which are caused by artificial coatings and ethylene sources and the packaging materials like high density polythene found to be promising.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.
