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Open Access
Development of F1 hybrids of indeterminate tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) for protected cultivation
(Department of Olericulture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2015) Lekshmi, S L; KAU; Celine, V A
The present investigation entitled “Development of F1 hybrids of indeterminate tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) for protected cultivation” was conducted at the Department of Olericulture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, from 2013 to 2015 with the objectives of identifying superior varieties and developing F1 hybrids of indeterminate tomato suited for protected cultivation. The study consisted of two experiments conducted in the naturally ventilated polyhouse of size 50 m x 20 m located at the Instructional Farm, Vellayani. In the first part of the first experiment, 40 tomato genotypes were evaluated for two consecutive years in an RBD with three replications. As the second part, 12 commercial hybrids were evaluated. The second experiment consisted of a 9 x 9 half diallel analysis laid out in an RBD with three replications. Analysis of variance showed significant differences between the genotypes for all the characters for two crops. Pooled analysis revealed that, LE 1 recorded the highest yield (2443.43 g) and fruit weight (108.13 g) followed by LE 7. LE 53 had maximum number of fruits per plant (65.00). In the present study, genotypes had wide variation for quality parameters. Fruits of LE 14 recorded highest TSS with a mean of 5.74 ºBrix. LE 7 had maximum ascorbic acid (30.13 mg/100g) and lycopene content (13.09 mg/100g). Beta carotene value was maximum in LE 16 (184.15 mg/100g). There was minimum incidence of pests, diseases and physiological disorders under protected conditions. Among the 12 hybrids evaluated, INDAM 9802 was the highest yielder (1444.40 g) followed by F1 T 30 (1412.22 g). F1 T 30 recorded maximum fruits per plant (35.66) which was on par with F1 Queen (35.55). Genetic parameters like phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, heritability and genetic advance were studied to assess the genetic variability among the genotypes. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were observed for characters like truss per plant, fruits per truss, fruit weight, fruits per plant, yield per plant and yield per plot. Path analysis revealed highest positive direct effect for fruit weight (0.3956), truss per plant (0.3558) and fruits per plant (0.3381). Based on D2 analysis the 40 genotypes were grouped into eight clusters. Cluster I was the largest with twenty four genotypes followed by cluster II with ten genotypes. Diallel analysis was carried out using nine parents selected based on genetic divergence and per se performance. The parents were crossed in a diallel fashion excluding reciprocals to obtain 36 F1 hybrids. The study revealed that P5 x P9 had the highest yield (3114.03 g) which was on par with P6 x P8 (3074.37 g) and P1 x P5 (3077.58 g). P1 x P5 had the maximum fruits per plant (103.93). The magnitude of relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis varied considerably. For yield, relative heterosis ranged from -32.40 to 92.72, heterobeltiosis from -47.14 to 89.54 and standard heterosis from 2.91 to 160.95. The σ2gca and σ2sca ratio indicated that non-additive gene action was predominant for all traits. Among the nine parents, P9 (LE 1), P5 (LE 20) P1 (LE 2), and P2 (LE 7) were superior for yield and yield attributes. The estimates of sca effects indicated that P5 x P9 (LE 20 x LE 1), P6 x P8 (LE 39 x LE 38) and P1 x P5 (LE 2 x LE 20) were the most promising hybrids for protected cultivation. The present study revealed that the genotypes LE 1 and LE 7 and the hybrids INDAM 9802 and F1 T 30 were superior for yield and yield attributes under protection. Based on the mean performance, standard heterosis and sca effects the three potential crosses viz., P5 x P9, P6 x P8 and P1 x P5 could be adjudged as suitable indeterminate tomato hybrids for protected cultivation.
Open Access
Standardization of processing methods for production of quality white pepper.
(Department of Processing Technology,College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2011) Shameena Beegum, P P; KAU; Vasanthakumar, K
The research entitled “Standardization of processing methods for production of quality white pepper”was conducted at the Department of Processing Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani . The study was undertaken with the objective of producing good quality white pepper using improved processing methods. The experiment was divided into three parts viz., chemical method of white pepper production, microbial fermentation method and organoleptic evaluation of the resultant products. The experiment was laid out in CRD with three replications. Seven promising bleaching agents were selected for the chemical experiment. Berries with calcium hypochlorite, calcium hydroxide, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, sodium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, benzoyl peroxide and the conventional retting (control) constituted the eight treatments. Effects of these treatments on the physical and chemical properties of white pepper berries were analysed. All the physical properties except sizes of berries were significantly influenced by the treatments. Treatment with sodium perborate recorded maximum specific gravity followed by sodium hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide. The highest value for 1000 berry weight was reported from berries treated with sodium hypochlorite. Treatment with calcium hypochlorite and sodium hypochlorite had registered a significantly higher value for 1000 berry volume. Calcium hypochlorite treated berries were having the highest yield. Berries produced by conventional retting process (control) found to be superior in volatile oil, oleoresin, piperine and non volatile ether extract and treatment with calcium hypochlorite was on par with control in all chemical parameters. Residual level of bleaching agents was found to be in a safe range for consumption. The microbial fermentation work was consisted of, isolation of organisms through enrichment culture technique, evaluation of available cultures and standardization of retting process for white pepper production. Seven isolates of bacteria IsB1 to IsB7 and eight fungal isolates IsF1 to IsF6 were obtained. Evaluation of isolates was done by assessing the pectinolytic and cellulolytic activities. The isolates IsF1 and IsF3 were also capable for degrading pectin. Degradation of cellulose was maximum in IsF3, Ay1 and Mycophyta. Bacterial isolates did not produce any zone for both asparagine and MP-5 media. Compared to bacterial isolates fungal isolates was faster in retting. Isolate IsF3, Ay1and Mycophyta were the most promising and recorded 100 percentage retting without any damage by third day itself. Amongst all the isolates, considering the retting process and quality of the product, the isolates IsF3 and Ay1 were found to be the most superior. Berries treated with sodium perborate recorded maximum over all acceptability for Organoleptic qualities eventhough it resulted poor chemical qualities. Amongst all the eight treatments, considering quality parameters and quality of developed product, treatment with calcium hypochlorite was found to be the most superior. The above study could be concluded with the findings that, prolonged retting period can be shortened to three to four days using microbial fermentation method with promising isolates IsF3 and Ay1. While opting for a better colour, bleaching with a promising chemical bleaching agent like calcium hypochlorite (0.2%) can be recommended.
Open Access
Development of nendran banana chips with enhanced shelf life and quality
(Department of Processing Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2014) Sonia, N S; KAU; Mini, C
The present investigation entitled “Development of Nendran banana chips with enhanced shelf life and quality” was conducted at Department of Processing Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, with the objective to evaluate and compare the effect of natural antioxidants in delaying rancidity of banana chips during storage and to explore the possibility of developing flavoured chips. Nendran banana chips were prepared in unrefined coconut oil by incorporating two types of antioxidants viz., processing waste and flavour imparting substances in fresh and dried forms at 0.01 and 0.02 % concentrations, either by presoaking slices in antioxidant solution before frying or by directly adding to frying oil. The prepared chips were analysed for physical, chemical and sensory quality parameters. Banana chips prepared by addition of 0.02% fresh banana peel to frying oil recorded the least moisture (6.45%), oil uptake (30.65%), peroxide value (4.70 meq. O2/ kg) and free fatty acid (FFA) value (3.08 mg KOH/ g) along with highest integrity (84.45%) and iodine value (8.76) indicating superior quality. Of all the flavor imparting substances tried, chips prepared by adding 0.02% dried curry leaf powder to frying oil had lowest moisture (5.30%), oil uptake (31.40%) peroxide (6.50 meq. O2/ kg) and FFA value (3.02 mg KOH/ g) along with highest integrity (85.90%) and iodine value (6.73). Both these treatments recorded highest sensory parameters too, hence selected for further storage study. Banana chips prepared using fresh banana peel and dried curry leaf powder were stored in low density polyethylene pouches, tri-layered laminated pouches and under modified atmospheric packaging (MAP) in laminated pouches for three months to evaluate the shelf stability. Chips prepared with 0.02% dried curry leaf powder and packed under MAP in laminated pouches showed low moisture (6.90%), least hardness (4.86 N), toughness (1.90 Ns), FFA value (5.24 mg KOH/g), peroxide value (7.87 meq. O2/ kg), highest iodine value (10.27), yellowness index (109.86), crispness (5.12) and higher mean rank value for sensory parameters throughout storage period. Highest antioxidant activity (12.61 ± 1.31 %) was also recorded by this treatment. When the possibility of development of flavoured banana chips was explored, chips prepared by addition of 2% dried garlic powder was acceptable to the sensory panel. The study revealed that preparation of Nendran banana chips by addition of 0.02% dried curry leaf powder into frying oil and storing under modified atmospheric packaging system in laminated pouches can ensure a shelf life of three months.
Open Access
Evaluation of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.var botrytis) for southern Kerala
(Department of olericulture, College of agriculture, Vellayani, 2013) Shruthy, O N; KAU; Celine, V A
The present investigation on “Evaluation of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis) for southern Kerala” was conducted at the Department of Olericulture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, during the period October 2012 to March 2013. The objectives were to identify tropical cauliflower varieties suitable for plains of southern Kerala and to study the influence of date of planting on yield and quality. The experiment was laid out in the field in split plot design with four dates of sowing as main plot and 12 varieties of cauliflower as sub plot treatments with five replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant difference among sowing dates, varieties and their interactions for all the characters studied. Among the sowing dates, November 1st sowing recorded highest curd and yield characters. Highest net curd weight was recorded for November 1st sowing (361.69 g) followed by October 1st sowing (336.57 g). Sowing on November 15 resulted in early curd initiation whereas that on October 1 resulted in early curd harvest. Better plant height, leaves per plant, gross plant weight, leaf length, leaf breadth and leaf size were also exhibited by November 1st sowing. No significant differences were observed between different sowing dates for quality characters like protein, vitamin A and vitamin C. Least incidence of physiological disorders, pest and diseases were observed on November 1st sowing. Among the varieties, NS 60N was the highest yielder (454.02 g) based on yield characters. Curd depth, curd diameter and curd size index were also highest for NS 60N followed by G 45. Earliest among the varieties was Himshort followed by NS 60N and the late varieties were Pusa Sharad and Pusa Hybrid-2. Himpriya-60 exhibited highest plant height, leaves per plant, gross plant weight, leaf length, leaf breadth and leaf size. Significant differences were observed among treatments for all quality characters except vitamin C. The interaction effects were significant for all the characters studied. Yield characters were best for NS 60N (629.33 g) sown on November 1st. Best curd characters were exhibited by October 1st sowing of Pusa Hybrid 2 followed by November 1st sowing of NS 60N. Himpriya-60 sown on November 1st recorded highest plant height, leaves per plant, gross plant weight and leaf size. Himshort sown on October 1st was the earliest. Least incidence of physiological disorders, pest and diseases were observed on November 1st sowing. No significant differences were observed between different sowing dates for quality characters like protein, vitamin A and vitamin C. Variability among genotypes for all the characters was studied using phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance. Correlation and path analysis studies revealed high positive correlation of plant height, number of leaves, leaf size, days to curd initiation, curd depth, curd size index and stalk length to yield. Selection index values were worked out based on discriminant function analysis and found that NS 60N was the best. The study identified two high yielding varieties namely NS 60N and G 45 as promising and November 1st sowing as the best sowing time for cultivation in southern Kerala.
Open Access
Farmer and consumer behaviour towards organic vegetables
(Department of rural marketing management, College of cooperation, banking and management, Vellanikkara, 2015) Divya Vijayan; KAU; Ushadevi, K N
Organic farming is one of the several approaches found to meet the objectives of sustainable agriculture. The need for organic farming in India arises from non sustainability of agricultural production and the damage caused to ecology through the conventional farming practices. Organic farming practices are based on a maintaining harmonious relationship with nature aiming at the protection of the environment. India being an agriculture based on country has vast opportunities to go ahead in the field of organic farming. However, Currently, India ranks 10th among the top ten countries in terms of cultivable land under organic certification. The total area under organic certification is 4.72 million ha (APEDA 2013-14). This signals that potentials are huge and still it has to move forward. The study entitled “Farmer and Consumer Behaviour towards Organic Vegetables” was conducted with the main objectives to study the behaviour of farmers towards organic vegetable farming, to identify the barriers in the adoption process of organic vegetable cultivation and the constraints in marketing of organic vegetables; to examine the consumers behaviour towards organic vegetables and to identify the determinants of consumer behaviour towards organic vegetables. The study covered three districts representing central Kerala. The districts selected were Thrissur, Palakkad and Ernakulum based on the prominence of vegetable cultivation. Three blocks were selected from each district namely Pazhayannur block of Thrissur district, Elevanchery block of Palakkad district and Moovattupuzha block of Ernakulum district based on purposive sampling and expert opinion of field scientist. Thirty conventional farmers (10 each) from the three selected blocks were selected based on purposive sampling. Six organic farmers certified by INDOCERT were also selected for the study. Twenty consumers from each block were selected as sample respondents through snow ball sampling. Thus the total sample respondents consists of 30 conventional vegetable farmers, 6 certified organic vegetable farmers and sixty vegetable consumers. The objectives of the study were analysed with the help of statistical tools like Percentage analysis, Indices, Rank order scale, Likert scale of summated rating, One way ANOVA, Chi-square, Kendall’s coefficient, Kruskal Wallis test and probit model. Farmer behaviour towards organic vegetable farming is analyzed based on the variables like area under vegetable cultivation, major crop cultivated, mode of sale by farmers, interest in organic farming, and attitude and satisfaction level of farmers. The major crops cultivated by selected farmers include cowpea, snake gourd and bitter gourd .The study revealed that average area and productivity of crops from conventional farming is more. But the net income of organic farmers is more than the conventional farmers. All the selected conventional farmers prefer to sell their vegetables through VFPCK whereas organic farmers prefer direct sale. Majority of the farmers expressed their interest in organic farming but they are willing for only partial conversion by gradually reducing chemical application. The analysis of the attitude of the farmer respondents shows that both conventional farmers and organic farmers have highly favorable attitude towards to the statements related to fertility of soil, environmental friendly, health protecting and the quality of vegetables. Organic farmers have highly favorable attitude towards market demand, practical feasibility and low financial risk and premium price. . But the conventional farmer’s attitude is moderately unfavorable to market demand, practical feasibility and low financial risk. The result of ANOVA shows that there is no difference in the attitude of farmers in three districts. Based on the satisfaction index, study found that certified organic farmers are highly satisfied towards market demand, cultivation practices, availability of inputs, availability of labour and price of organic vegetables whereas, they are highly dissatisfied towards technical assistance provided and institutional support system for organic vegetable cultivation. The major barriers identified by the conventional farmers include disease, pest and weather related losses, high cost of production, huge capital investment, high labour cost, lack of knowledge of organic farming practices and organic certification procedures. On the other hand organic farmers identified pest related production loss, difficulties in getting organic certification, huge investment and lack of institutional support as the major barriers in adoption of organic vegetable cultivation. Major environmental barriers identified by all the selected farmers are the cultivation practices of neighbour farms and non suitability of land. Lack of organic marketing networks and competition with non-organic vegetables are perceived as marketing barriers by conventional farmers. Consumer behaviour towards organic vegetables is analyzed mainly based on their preference, awareness, attitude and satisfaction towards organic vegetables. Consumers have partial awareness towards various features of the organic vegetables. Majority of the consumers have complete awareness regarding availability, quality, nutrient value, health aspects, environment friendliness and price of the organic vegetables. However, they are not at all aware about standards fixed for organic vegetables and its labeling. There is no significant difference in the awareness level among district as per the result of ANOVA. Majority of the respondents (61.67 percent) preferred organic vegetables. Reasons for preference to organic vegetables are lower residues, better value for money followed by hygiene and eco friendly attitude of consumers. Kendall’s W shows perfect agreement among the consumers in the ranking of the variables. The study found that all the selected consumers have highly favorable attitude towards the quality of organic vegetables. They have moderately favorable attitude towards shelf life, nutritional value, environmental friendliness and chemical free features of organic vegetables whereas they have highly unfavourable attitude towards price of the organic vegetables. ANOVA shows difference in the attitude among the consumers of three districts. Based on the Kruskkal Wallis test the differences are mainly on perishability nutritious value conservation of environment and pest free nature of organic vegetables. The level of consumer satisfaction towards organic vegetables revealed that they are moderately satisfied with taste, nutrient value, freshness, eco friendliness, shelf life, value for money and source of information. However they are moderately dissatisfied with price, availability and marketing channels. ANOVA shows significant difference in the level of satisfaction in three districts. Based on Kruskal wallis, the differences are mainly on price, quality, availability, marketing channels, source of information and authenticity of organic nature. The important factors which influence the consumer behaviour towards organic vegetables are price, chemical and pesticide free, eco friendly vegetables, health aspect, availability of vegetables and distance to the market. Value for money and quality factors like nutrient value, more calories, hygiene, taste and freshness are also influencing them to certain extent. Study also revealed that consumer attitude towards organic vegetables is not determined by demographic nature of consumers whereas age is a determinant of the consumer satisfaction towards organic vegetables. Further, study points out that age and education are the determinants of consumer preference towards organic vegetables. As a whole, we could able to conclude that a complete change from conventional farming to organic farming practices is not practically feasible in the present agricultural scenario. The study found that the farmer’s attitude towards organic vegetable cultivation is indifferent. The farmers are not ready for complete change of their farming practice to organic farming especially due to their perception regarding huge investment, low yield and uncertainty in market demand. Moreover, consumers have also expressed their concern about high price of the organic vegetables. The limited in number of certified organic vegetable farmers also shows the reluctance of conventional farmers to enter into organic vegetable farming. Therefore it may be suggested that policy makers may encourage good agricultural practices among farmers by following judicious chemical application rather than focusing on purely organic farming practices. Government may also take measures to provide institutional support by conducting training programme awareness campaign and also by extending financial support. Moreover, the NGO’s, consumer organizations, farmer groups and Kudumbasree units can also come forward to encourage organic vegetable cultivation. It may be suggested that certification of organic products should not be entrusted with private agencies as it practiced now. Government or agencies in the public domain like Kerala Agricultural University can be competent authority for organic certification which will make organic certification accessible for small and marginal farmers.
Open Access
Standardization of organic manuring in kasthuri turmeric (Curcuma aromatica salisb)
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices,College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2012) Bhende Siddhesh, Shamrao; KAU; Jessykutty, P C
A study entitled "Standardization of organic manuring in kasthuri turmeric (Curcuma aromatica Salisb.)" was carried out at the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, during 2010-2011 to formulate a cost effective organic manurial recommendation for commercial cultivation of kasthuri turmeric. The experiment was laid out in RBD with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of different doses and combinations of three organic manures viz., FYM, vermicompost and neemcake plus a combination of microbial inoculants viz., Azospirillum, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), Trichoderma and Pseudomonas. The treatments were M1 d (T1) - FYM 40.0 t ha-1 + mi, M2 d (T2) - Vermicompost (VC) 25.0 t ha-1 + mi, M3 d (T3) - Neemcake (NC) 6.0 t ha-1 + mi, M1 d/2 (T4) - FYM 20.0 t ha-1 + mi, M2 d/2 (T5) -Vermicompost 12.5 t ha-1 + mi, M3 d/2 (T6) - Neemcake 3.0 t ha-1 + mi, M4 d (T7) - FYM 20.0 t ha-1 + VC 6.25 t ha-1 + NC 1.5 t ha-1 + mi, M4 d/2 (T8) - FYM 20.0 t ha-1 + VC 3.125 t ha-1 + NC 0.75 t ha-1 + mi and M0 d0 (T9) - Absolute control with no organic manures and microbial inoculants. The results revealed that application of different organic manures along with microbial inoculants significantly influenced the morphological characters, biochemical and physiological parameters, nutrient uptake, dry matter production and ultimately the yield and yield attributes in kasthuri turmeric. A general improvement in the soil physical, chemical and biological properties was noticed in the experimental plots, after the experiment. Treatment M2 d recorded significantly superior values for plant height, leaf area, rhizome and root characters followed by M3 d and M4 d and M1 d. No significant difference in tiller production was noticed by the treatments but highest number of leaves was recorded in M3 d/2. Highest fresh and dry rhizome yield was produced by M2 d. Equivalent yield was also obtained from M3 d. Significantly superior yields compared to control were also registered by M4 d, M1 d, M2 d/2 and M4 d/2. All these treatments recorded significantly lesser crop duration than control. All treatments except M3 d/2 and M1 d/2 were equally effective in giving better dry matter production than control. M2 d affected the biomass accumulation most favourably, followed by M3 d, and M4 d.In the case of leaf area index, M4 d was found to have the most significant influence throughout the crop growth period followed by M2 d. In all other treatments also significant increase in the leaf area index over control (M0 d0) was noticed. All treatments recorded significantly superior harvest index than control. In the case of biochemical characters like volatile oil, non volatile ether extract and starch M2 drecorded the highest values followed by M3 d and M4 d and same treatments recorded lower crude fibre content also. However, no significant difference in leaf chlorophyll and rhizome curcumin content was noticed among the treatments. After the experiment an improvement in the soil physical and chemical properties was recorded in all plots. A general reduction in soil bulk density and an increase in the water holding capacity of the soil was recorded in all plots after the experiment. However, a significant difference among the treatments was not noticed. Soil pH range of the experimental field remained same after the experiment (6.38-6.59), while an increase in the electrical conductivity was noticed in all the treatments.An increase in organic carbon was noticed in all treatments including control (M0 d0) after the experiment. General increase in available N, P and K was noticed in all plots with highest values in higher doses of organic manures (M3 d, M2 d, M1d and M4 d) applied plots. Highest N uptake was observed with full dose application of vermicompost, neem cake and combination application (M2 d, M3 d and M4 d). Significantly superior P uptake was noticed with full dose application of organic manures (M1 d, M2 d and M3 d) with the combined application recording the highest value (M4 d). Lower dose of organic manures though with microbial inoculants, recorded lower uptake of P. Application of organic manures like neemcake and vermicompost along with microbial inoculants either singly or in combination (M1 d, M2 d, M3 d and M4 d) had significant influence on the uptake of K, as observed from the present study. Pest and disease incidence was observed very less in present experiment. The treatment M3 d was found the best treatment for reducing the phytopathogenic bacterial population in the soil. Maximum reduction of pathogenic fungal population was found in the treatment M3 d/2 whereas, in the case of actinomycetes it was observed in the treatment M2 d/2. Throughout the growth stages, all treatments recorded significantly superior root colonization than control. At 2 and 4 MAP, M1 d recorded significantly superior root colonization, but at 6 MAP, M3 d/2 recorded significantly superior value. In the cost benefit analysis, highest net income was obtained from M3 d (Rs. 4, 67,935 /-) followed by M2 d (Rs. 4, 16,796 /-) and M4 d (Rs. 4, 05,390 /-). Treatment M3 d recorded the highest B: C ratio (3.05) followed by M3 d/2 (2.92). Better B: C ratios were also observed with treatments M4 d/2, M1 d/2, M4 d, M1 d and M2 d/2 (2.57, 2.55, 2.53, 2.49 and 2.43 respectively). M2 d recorded a B: C ratio of 2.37. Economic analysis revealed that, treatments M3 d, M3 d/2 and M4 d/2 recorded the higher B: C ratios. Hence, treatment M3 d (Neemcake 6.0 t ha-1 + mi) can be considered as the best cost effective organic manurial recommendation for kasthuri turmeric cultivation.
Open Access
In vitro production of microrhizomes in curcuma aromatica salisb
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices,College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2012) Shameena, S; KAU; Reghunath, B R
Investigations on “In vitro production of microrhizomes in Curcuma aromatica Salisb.” was carried out at the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices and Department of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram during 2009-2011. The objective of the study was to standardize the method(s) for in vitro production of microrhizomes in Curcuma aromatica Salisb. so as to utilize them for rapid propagation and conservation of germplasm. The investigations were carried out in two phases viz., (i) In vitro shoot multiplication and (ii) Microrhizome production. IISR accession of Curcuma aromatica from the germplasm collection of the Department of Plantation crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani was used for the study. For in vitro shoot multiplication rhizome bud sprouts was used as explants. Sprouted rhizhome bud of C. aromatica treated with Bavistin 0.2 per cent for 30 minutes and mercuric chloride 0.1 per cent for 12 minutes registered the highest survival percentage (87%). Murashige and Skoog’s medium supplemented with BA and NAA and agar 6.5 per cent was optimum for shoot multiplication. Maximum number of multiple shoots (12.4), and the longest shoot (6.03 cm) was obtained in 5 mgl-1 BA and 0.10 mg l-1 NAA. For in vitro rooting, the shootlets produced in vitro were transferred to rooting media where half strength MS medium with IBA 0.2 mg l-1 favoured best rooting with regard to percent of cultures initiating roots (100%), number of roots (15.4) and root length (6.4 cm). Mixture of coir pith compost and vermi compost (1:1 v/v) was identified to be the best potting medium for planting out and acclimatization, registering 100 per cent survival rate. The in vitro multiplied tissue cultured plants were successfully established in the field. The plants were healthy and vigorous with cent per cent field survival and were morphologically uniform. 85 For microrhizome induction, three to four cm long shoots generated from in vitro shoot multiplication cultures were used as explants. Microrhizome formation was found to be controlled by the concentrations of cytokinins and sucrose as well as photoperiod during the culture. BA 5.0 mg l-1 was identified as the best hormone for microrhizome induction with regard to number of microrhizome per culture vessel (4.8), fresh weight (247 mg) and dry weight (65 mg) of microrhizomes produced. Different concentration of growth regulators on microrhizome production showed that the number of shoots producing microrhizomes range between two to five. Among the different levels of sucrose, 70 g l-1 was most effective for microrhizome induction as indicated by earliness in induction (37 days), maximum percentage (92 %) of cultures with microrhizome and highest number (5.5) of microrhizome per culture vessel. But maximum fresh weight (260 mg) and dry weight (70 mg) microrhizome was noticed at higher concentration of 80 g l-1. With regard to various durations of photo period used for microrhizome induction, eight hours light was found better than others with respect to percentage (92 %) of cultures with microrhizome, number (5.5) of microrhizome per culture and fresh (220 mg) and dry weight (56 mg) of microrhizome. Harvested microrhizomes from in vitro culture were germinated both in vitro and ex vitro. During in vitro germination, regeneration of microrhizomes was independent of size and weight and registered 83.3 per cent regeneration and survival. But in ex vitro germination, regeneration of microrhizomes was dependent of size and weight and larger microrhizomes (>150 mg) registered highest regeneration percentage (91.6 %) and survival percentage (75 %). With regard to growth parameters larger microrhizomes (>150 mg) performed better both under in vitro as well as ex vitro conditions. They recorded maximum shoot length (30 mm), highest rate of shoot growth (10 mm week-1), maximum fresh weight (160 mg) of shoot and dry weight (40 mg) of shoot during in vitro germination and highest rate of shoot growth (10 mm week-1), maximum shoot number (20 mm), maximum root number (4.0), maximum shoot length (39 mm), maximum root length (4.1 cm), maximum fresh weight (200 mg) of shoot and dry weight (50 mg) of shoot during ex vitro germination.
Open Access
Standardization of techniques for better rooting and growth of orthotropic shoots in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.)
(Department of plantation crops and spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2014) Nimisha, Mathews; KAU; Sulekha, G R
The present study on “Standardization of techniques for better rooting and growth of orthotropic shoots in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.)” was carried out at the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2012- 2014. The objective of the study was to standardize techniques for profuse rooting and vigorous growth of orthotropic shoots of black pepper so as to produce quality planting material. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design consisting of 10 treatments with 3 replications. All the treatments were tried using 2 node and 3 node semi hardwood cuttings of orthotropic shoots of black pepper. The treatments consisted of IBA (500 ppm and 1000 ppm), common sugar solution (1 per cent, 2 per cent and 3 per cent), AMF, Azospirillum 15 per cent and Psuedomonas 15 per cent. Solarized potting mixture enriched with Trichoderma was used for all the treatments including control and PGPR Mix -II was drenched uniformly in all treatments except absolute control. In the experiment with 2 node cuttings, T7 (Azospirillum 15 per cent) was found to be superior for most of the growth characters like minimum number of days for sprouting and number of days for 50 per cent sprouting . The same treatment recorded the highest value for height of sprouted cutting, length of leaf, breadth of leaf and leaf area. But the maximum values for number of leaves, petiole length, internodal length, root volume and number of roots was recorded in T2 (IBA 1000 ppm). In experiment with 3 node cuttings, T2 registered minimum number of days for sprouting, number of days for 50 per cent sprouting, highest values for height of sprouted cutting, number of leaves, petiole length, number of roots and root volume. The anatomical characters when studied, leaf cuticle thickness was highest in 2 node cuttings treated with T5 (common sugar solution 3 per cent) and in 3 node cuttings treated with T6 (AMF). The number of vascular bundles in leaf was found highest in T2 (IBA 1000 ppm) for both 2 node and 3 node cuttings. But the number of vascular bundles in root was highest in T1 (IBA 500 ppm), both in the case of 2 node and 3 node cuttings. For stomatal frequency, T7 showed maximum value in both the cases. The treatment T8 (Psuedomonas 15 per cent) recorded highest value for total dry matter production in both the experiments. The biological properties of potting mixture (after the experiment) showed that, AMF colonization and spore count was maximum in T6 for 2 node and 3 node cuttings .The observation on total actinomycetes load was highest in T7 in both the experiments. The treatment, T7 showed the highest percentage of success in the establishment of 2 node orthotropic cuttings which was on par with T1 and T2. With 3 node cuttings also T7 and T1 showed highest percentage success in the establishment of cuttings. From the results, it can be concluded that 2 or 3 node cuttings with Azospirillum 15 per cent or IBA 1000 ppm or IBA 500 ppm were found to be the best treatments for better rooting and growth of orthotropic shoots in black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) when planted in solarized potting mixture enriched with Trichoderma. However, 2 node cuttings are preferred because the availability of orthotropic shoots are scarce in black pepper.
Open Access
Growth and yield analysis of aloe (Aloe vera L. Burm.f.) under different organic nutrient regimes
(Department of plantation crops and spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2014) Dipin, M N; KAU; Jessykutty, P C
The study entitled “Growth and yield analysis of aloe (Aloe vera L. Burm.f.) under different organic nutrient regimes” was carried out during 2012-14 in the Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture Vellayani, to analyse the effect of different organic manures and biofertilizers on growth, yield and quality of Aloe vera, to assess the relative efficiency of organic manures and biofertilizers as substitutes for inorganic fertilizers and to compare the economics of cultivation of different treatments. The experiment was laid out in RBD with sixteen treatments and three replications. The treatments included adhoc organic POP recommendation of KAU (2011), NPK dosage followed by commercial growers in Tamil Nadu and different combinations of three organic manures (FYM, neem cake and vermicompost) and biofertilizer as PGPR mix 1 and an absolute control (without manures and fertilizers). The study showed that, application of 37.5kg N in the form of FYM and.neem cake in 2:1 ratio along with PGPR mix I (T11 - 75 per cent N of FP as [FYM (50 per cent N) + .neem cake (25 per cent N)] + PGPR mix I) was significantly superior in increasing the morphological parameters (plant height, number of leaves, leaf width, thickness and weight) of aloe. Significantly superior fresh leaf yield (4.74 kg plant-1 year-1) and latex yield (18.91 g plant-1 year-1) was registered by T11. Application of chemical fertilizers (T3) recorded lesser yields compared to organic manure applied plants. Growth analysis carried out at different growth stages also revealed the superiority of T11. Significant improvement in gel quality was noticed for T11 and T14. Significant improvement in soil quality in terms of nutrient availability and microbial load was obtained by the combined application of organic manures and PGPR mix 1 in which, PGPR mix 1 can be used as N substitute to a maximum level of 25 per cent. Among the sixteen treatments tried, T11 (37.5 kg N/ha in the form of FYM and neem cake in 2:1 ratio along with PGPR mix 1) was the best cost effective treatment (B: C ratio 1.8) for getting highest yield and gel quality in aloe.

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