Theses

Browse

Search Results

Now showing 1 - 9 of 45

Open Access
Extraction and utilization of anthocyanin pigments from jamun ( Syzygium cumini L. )
(Department of Processing Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Naresh, N; KAU; Sheela, K B
The project entitled “Extraction and utilization of anthocyanin pigments from jamun (Syzygium cumini Skeels.)” was undertaken at the Department of Processing Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during 2013-15. The objectives of the study were standardization of method of extraction of anthocyanin pigment and evaluation of pigment stability to pH, light, temperature, storage conditions and in processed products. Method for extraction of anthocyanin pigments from jamun was standardized. Among the four extraction methods compared, highest content of anthocyanin (61.07mg/100g), recovery per cent (13.75), colour hue (1.30) and colour intensity (1.13) were obtained for acidified solvent extraction method (20% ethanol + 0.5% citric acid). The effect of light and storage conditions on pigment stability was evaluated. Storage in amber coloured bottles under refrigerated conditions was found to be best for anthocyanin pigment due to lesser degradation of the pigment compared to that stored under ambient conditions. The effect of temperature on the anthocyanin content was studied at 70, 80 and 900 C and anthocyanin content was measured at intervals 30 minutes, 45 minutes and one hour of incubation at each temperature. Anthocyanin content decreased from an initial value of 61.25mg/100g to 50.24mg/100g one hour of heating at 900 C. The effect of pH on stability of anthocyanin pigment was studied at different pH ranging from 2.5 to 7 and incubating it for different intervals from one hour to 20 days at room temperature. Anthocyanin content was found to decrease with increase in pH and the least decrease was found at pH 2.5. Anthocyanin content was found to decrease from an initial value of 61.25mg/100g to 34.28mg/100g 20 days after incubation at a pH of 7. Least changes in pH were observed in RTS beverage prepared with 0.3% citric acid and 0.01% ascorbic acid and stored at refrigerated condition (T10). Acidity of the RTS beverage followed an increasing trend during storage, greatest change in acidity was observed in T8 (product coloured with synthetic colour). Ascorbic acid was found to decrease with increase in duration of storage, minimum changes in ascorbic acid was observed in RTS beverage prepared with 0.4% citric acid and 0.02% ascorbic acid and stored at refrigerated condition (T14). RTS beverage stored under refrigerated conditions retained colour throughout the storage period as compared to ambient condition where there was a greater loss of the colour. Addition of ascorbic acid was found to hasten the colour degradation of the beverage under ambient conditions, but under refrigerated conditions there was not much change in colour. Pigment stability in mixed fruit jam was also studied by storing the prepared product under ambient and refrigerated conditions for a period of three months. pH of the mixed fruit jam followed a declining trend during storage, least change in pH was observed in T1 (control under refrigerated condition) during storage. There was no significant change in the colour of the mixed fruit jam stored under refrigerated conditions. A slight darkening of the colour was seen in the bottles stored at ambient condition. Guava RTS beverage and mixed fruit jam was organoleptically evaluated by selected panel of judges. The products kept under refrigerated conditions recorded highest scores for flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability compared to those kept at ambient conditions three months after storage.
Open Access
Seed invigoration to overcome dormancy in ash gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.)
(Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Shobha, K V; KAU; Rose Mary, Francies
An experiment ‘Seed invigoration to overcome dormancy in ash gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.),’ was conducted during 2014-2016 in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikkara, Thrissur, following a completely randomized design with 16 treatments and three replications. The experiment aimed to elucidate the effect of seed invigoration on dormancy in ash gourd, to ascertain the anatomical changes in seed coat on seed treatment and to assess the storage potential of treated seeds under ambient conditions. Seed invigoration was resorted to by soaking seeds of variety KAU Local in water (hydro priming) for 24 hours, thiourea (0.5%) for 24 hours, KNO3 (0.4%) for 24 hours, KNO3 (0.7%) for 24 hours, KH2PO4 (10-1 M) for 24 hours, vinegar (pH 3.7) for 2 hours, polyethylene glycol 6000 (-0.5 MPa) for 24 hours, salicylic acid (60 ppm) for 12 hours, salicylic acid (60 ppm) for 24 hours, kinetin (10 ppm) for 12 hours, kinetin (10 ppm) for 24 hours, CaCl2 (50 mM) for 12 hours, CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours, Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1) for 12 hours, Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1 ) for 24 hours. Untreated seeds served as control (T16). Both treated and untreated seeds, dried to < 8 per cent moisture content were packed in polythene bags (400 guage) and stored under ambient conditions upto ten months. The seed quality parameters viz., germination, germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, mean time to germination, vigour indices I and II, and electrical conductivity of seed leachate were recorded at monthly intervals during storage. Seed microflora as well as histochemical studies to analyse the changes occurring in the dimensions of embryo and proportions of different fractions of seed coat were assessed at bimonthly intervals. Results pointed out the existence of significant differences in the impact of various invigoration treatments on the seed quality and histochemical parameters observed both within 35 days of invigoration as well as during storage. Majority of the seed invigoration treatments were effective in breaking dormancy in ash gourd. Dormancy was first broken in seeds treated with KH2PO4 and kinetin. In the above treatments germination reached above 60 per cent (the minimum standards for seed certification (MSCS) prescribed for ash gourd) on the 11th day after invigoration (DAI). Dormancy in untreated seed was broken only on the 35th day after extraction. However, seed invigoration with salicylic acid, vinegar and PEG 6000, proved to be detrimental. Seed invigoration also helped in extending the viability of seeds. Germination in seeds treated with CaCl2 for 24 hours, was found to be retained above MSCS for seven months during storage, whereas, in untreated seeds, germination above 60 per cent was observed for two months only. Seeds treated with salicylic acid failed to germinate by 35th DAI while those treated with vinegar and polyethylene glycol (PEG) failed to attain MSCS throughout the period of study. The viability of seeds treated with kinetin or CaCl2 for 12 hours and those treated with Pf for either 12 or 24 hours was found to be retained for six months of storage. Germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, vigour indices I and II in both treated and untreated seeds, increased by 35th DAI and marginally decreased over the period of storage. In all the invigoration treatments, the above mentioned parameters were invariably higher than that of untreated control. However, the performance of seeds treated with salicylic acid, vinegar and PEG 6000 was lower than the untreated seeds. Invariably, the germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, vigour indices I and II were high in seeds treated with CaCl2 for 24 hours followed by treatment with Pf for 12 hours and CaCl2 for 12 hours. The mean time to germination, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, the thickness of seed coat and its component layers as well as the microbial infection of seed was also observed to be low in these treatments. High and significant positive correlation was found to exist between germination and speed of germination, coefficient of velocity of germination, vigour indices I and II. It became evident that germination in ash gourd will be strongly affected with an increase in thickness of total seed coat or its outer layerthe testa. The thickening of seed coat owing to the thickening of testa will be accompanied with an obvious decrease in germination, germination index and coefficient of velocity of germination, vigour indices I and II. Results thus indicated that poor germination in seeds of ash gourd may be due to water impermeable seed coat (physical dormancy) mainly resulting from thickening of the outer layer (testa). Such dormancy in ash gourd can be best overcome by seed invigoration with CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours. In addition, enhancement of seed viability, seed quality and seedling performance over storage was also achieved. Seed treatment with CaCl2 (50 mM) or Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1), for 12 hours were found to be the next best to treatment with CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours. Hence, these can also be recommended for breaking dormancy and maintaining high seed quality in ash gourd.
Open Access
General combining ability of selected black pod disease resistant cocoa(Theobroma cacao L.)hybrids
(Department of Plantation Crops, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Varsha Babu; KAU; Suma, B
Cocoa originated in the Amazon riverbasin of South America. The cultivation of cocoa had extended from Mexico to Costa Rica and over the time it had spread to Caribbean and other parts of South America (Wood and Lass» 1985). It was introduced to India during 1979. The generic name Theobronia was derived from two greek words 'Theo' means god and 'hroma' means food, hence known as '"food of god". The beans are the only source for chocolate. Cocoa is affected by many biotic and abiotic stresses. Among the biotic stresses Phytophthora pod rot is the most serious one affecting cocoa, leading to a total of 64% yield loss (Adomako, 2007). Therefore the control of black pod is a major challenge for cultivation of cocoa. The farmers adopt several measures to control the disease of which the use of copper based fungicides is the most predominant one (Tan and Tan, 1990). Although it is reasonably effective, their indiscriminate use poses serious environmental issues. To overcome this situation breeding for resistance to black pod is the most economical, environmental friendly and effective control method (Iwaro et al., 2004). Hence an organized breeding progianmiewas initiated at Cocoa Research Center (CRC), KAU, Vellanikkara during 2005 for the development of varieties resistance to black pod disease and high yield. Twenty five hybrids showing considerable level of resistance after 6 years of screening were selected for the present study. The morphological evaluation ot these hybrids were earned out based on eight qualitative and eight quantitative characters.Variability was observed among the hybrids for all the qualitative characters and quantitative characters. Among the hybrids, hybrid H22 recorded the highest pod weight (724g) and total wet bean weight per pod (176.98g). Tlie husk thickness and number of ilat beans were lowest for hybrid H16 (0.86 cm) and HII (1.40). Self incompatibility was assessed by self pollinating 100 flowers per hybrids. Twenty two hybrids turned to be self incompatible, one self compatible and rest with insufficient number of flowers. Out of 22 self incompatible hybrids eleven were selected for further study based on their yield (No. ol pods/ tree/ year). They were crossed with tester (G.I 5.9) in top cross model and only four yielded fruits. Seedlings were raised in the nursery and observations were recorded in the third month. The analysis of variance of top cross showed significant variation for two characters. The characters like height, diameter, chlorophyll and number of leaves did not express any significant difference. HD2is considered as an indicator of initial vigour and it is found to be directly correlated to the final vigour.The significant value for variance (p Vs c) for HD2 indicated substantial difference between the parents as agroup and their hybrid progenies as another group. This shows that the average hetero.sis is significantly high. Seven hybrids out of selected eleven did not yield any pod on cross pollination, progenies developed from open pollinated pods of these hybrid.s were evaluated to predict the performance of the parent. Progenies expressed high HD2 value. Based on this, these parents can be considered as superior ones. However this has to be confirmed further by crossing them with another tester. Nursery screening for Phytophthora resistance of top cross progeny and open pollinated progeny of all eleven selected hybrids were done at two weeks interval for three months. Lab screening for disease resistance was carried out in semi translucent leaves from all the progenies raised through top cross and open pollinated method along with control for eight days by providing artificial inoculation and percentage of infection was calculated. No disease incidence was noticed in any progenies indicating high GCA for this character. H 17 found to be superior combiner can be evaluated in comparative yield trial. H4, HIS and H8 were selected as superior ones based on the performance of open pollinated progeny which has to be further evaluated with another tester.
Open Access
Development of tropical gynoecious lines in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
(Department of Olericulture, College of Horticulture, vellanikkara, 2016) Karthika, A K; KAU; Pradeepkumar, T
The present study ‘Development of tropical gynoecious lines in (Cucumber sativus L.) was carried out at Department of Olericulture, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural university, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during August - November 2014 and February - May 2015 to evaluate the F1 hybrids and their F2 population for identifying stable tropical gynoecious lines of salad cucumber. Twelve hybrids produced by crossing gynoecious line EC 709119 with selected tropical monoecious parents were evaluated for gynoecy under rainshelter. Observations on important quantitative and qualitative characters were recorded. These hybrids were selfed to generate F2 population. F2 population was evaluated for expression of gynoecious character, viz., days taken for female flower anthesis, node at which first female flower emerged and total number of female flowers. The data was subjected to analysis of variance and variability among the genotypes was calculated. Most of the characters exhibited high heritability except for fruit parameters like fruit length, fruit girth and flesh thickness. For gynoecy F2 population from the cross EC 709119 x IC 538186 was observed as the most promising one. This population took only minimum days to form female flower and took minimum number of nodes to form female flower with highest number of female flowers and minimum male flowers. Sex ratio was estimated for parents, F1 hybrids and F2 population. Some of the parents having high sex ratio failed to transmit the same to its hybrid progenies. Among the parents, IC 538186 exhibited highest sex ratio. The highest sex ratio among the F2 population was for EC 709119 x IC 538186. Two populations viz., EC 709119 x IC 527427 and EC 709119 X IC 538186 exhibited a sex ratio of more than 2. The 4 F2 population evaluated for gynoecious trait were classified into monoecious and gynoecious character and tested for goodness of fit based on chi square test with monohybrid ratio of 3:1 being monoecy dominant over gynoecy. Out of the 4 populations, 2 populations were found to express significant value and fit in 3:1 ratio for dominant monoecious trait. The other 2 populations failed to fit in the 3:1 ratio. Bitterness was an important quality character which was absent in most of the parents except three of them during initial harvest. The crosses involving parents prone to bitterness were found to be bitter during later harvest, though all crosses were free of bitterness during initial stage. During later harvests, five parents were found to be bitter. Downy mildew incidence on parents and F1 hybrids were analyzed and Percentage of Disease Intensity (PDI) was estimated. Among parents, IC 538186 exhibited minimum infection and falls under the category of moderate resistance. Hybrid, EC 709119 x IC 538186 exhibited minimum infection and falls under the category of moderate resistance. Among 12 F2 populations, EC 709119 x IC 538186 produced maximum number of true gynoecious plants whereas eight F2 populations failed to produce even one true gynoecious plant. This population also exhibited moderate resistance against downy mildew disease and could be selected for developing true breeding stable gynoecious line for future breeding programme. Present investigation proved the scope of developing tropical gynoecious line from temperate lines by crossing with potential-monoecious lines and making selection in advance segregating generations for gynoecy.
Open Access
Quality evaluation of KAU red rice (oryza sativa L.) varieties
(Department of community science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Revathy, G Nadh; KAU; Aneena, E R
The present study entitled " Quality evaluation of KAU red rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties was conducted with the objective to assess the effect of parboiling on the physical, biochemical, nutritional, cooking and organoleptic qualities of KAU red rice varieties. The study also aimed to assess the suitability of these rice varieties for the preparation of selected traditional food products. Milling per cent among raw red rice varieties varied from 62.76 per cent (Aathira) to 76 (Ezhome-4) per cent and in parboiled samples ranged from 67.66 per cent (Aiswarya) to 77.33 (Ezhome-4) per cent. The highest milling per cent was observed in Ezhome-4 both raw and parboiled samples. An increase in milling per cent was observed in all the varieties after parboiling. Among red rice varieties head rice recovery ranged from 49.32 per cent (Aiswarya) to 59.15 per cent (Ezhome-4) per cent in raw samples. In parboiled samples the highest head rice recovery was observed in Ezhome-4 (62.86%) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (53.66%). There was no significant variation among red rice varieties in thousand grain weight and were comparable with Jyothi. In parboiled samples an increase in thousand grain weight was observed. Among raw red rice varieties volume weight ranged from 13.87mm3 (Aathira) to 11.84mm3 (Aiswarya). The highest volume weight in parboiled samples was observed in Aathira (14.17mm3) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (11.93mm3). Among red rice varieties the highest L/B ratio 3.24 and 2.98 was observed in control variety Jyothi both raw and parboiled samples. All the selected varieties were of lower grain length than control variety Jyothi. All varieties showed an increase in major physical quality parameters after parboiling. In raw red rice varieties the highest bulk density of 0.72g/ml was observed in varieties Aathira and Ezhome-4. In the case of parboiled samples highest bulk density was observed in Kanchana (0.66g/ml). Water absorption index in raw red rice flour was found to be highest in Aiswarya (25.61) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (22.46). In parboiled rice flour the highest water absorption index was observed in Aathira (23.71) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (22.04). In raw red rice flours, water solubility index in the range of 0.45 (Aathira) to 0.57(Ezhome-4). The highest water solubility index of 0.61 was observed in Ezhome-4 in parboiled samples and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (0.54). The highest syneresis per cent was observed in Samyuktha after 12th day of study in both raw and parboiled samples. In raw samples Samyuktha showed a low gelatinisation temperature index. Varieties Ezhome-4, Aathira, Jyothi, Kanchana and Aiswarya showed intermediate gelatinisation temperature index. In parboiled samples, all six varieties shown intermediate gelatinization temperature as the grains were swollen and collar incomplete and narrow. The cooking time taken by the rice varieties varied from 20.33 minutes (Samyuktha) to 27 minutes (Ezhome-4) in raw samples. In parboiled varieties, cooking time increased which varied from 28.33 minutes (Samyuktha) to 37.66 minutes (Aiswarya). In raw red rice varieties water uptake was in the range of 8.71ml (Ezhome-4) to 7.39ml (Samyuktha). In parboiled samples an increase in water uptake was observed with the highest in Ezhome-4 (12.80ml) variety and lowest in Samyuktha (8.83ml) variety. Volume expansion in raw samples ranged from 5.43 (Ezhome-4) to 4.38 (Aiswarya). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 5.70 (Jyothi) to 4.77 (Samyuktha). The highest amylose content of 24.90 per cent was observed in Aathira and the lowest was in Samyuktha (23.23%) in raw red rice varieties. Among parboiled rice varieties highest amylose content was observed in Ezhome-4 (24.54%) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (23.03%). Gel length of different raw samples ranged from 62.21mm (Kanchana) to 55.76mm (Ezhome-4). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 51.33mm (Aiswarya) to 24.66mm in control variety Jyothi. In raw samples grain elongation ratio was varied from1.47 (Samyuktha) to 1.79 (Aiswarya). No significant variation in grain elongation ratio was observed. A decrease in grain elongation ratio was observed in parboiled samples with the highest in Kanchana (1.61) and the lowest in Samyuktha (1.43). The highest moisture content in raw rice was observed in Aiswarya (12.5%) and the lowest was in Jyothi (10.5%). The highest moisture content in parboiled samples was observed in Aiswarya (11.56%) rice variety and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (9.70%). In raw samples starch content was varied from 70.50g/100(Aiswarya) to 65.83 (Jyothi). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 67.43g/100g (Ezhome-4) to 62.40g/100g (Kanchana). Among raw red rice varieties highest protein was observed in Ezhome-4 (5.50g/100g) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (4.70g/100g). The highest protein content in parboiled samples was noticed in Samyuktha (3.75g/100g) rice variety and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (3.12g/100g). The fat content of different raw samples was in the range of 0.24/100g (Samyuktha) to 0.35g/100g (Aathira). Among parboiled samples the highest fat content was observed in Aathira rice variety (0.48g/100g) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (0.31g/100g). In raw samples highest fibre content of 0.31g/100g was noticed in Ezhome-4 and Samyuktha. The control variety Jyothi obtained lowest fibre content in both raw and parboiled samples. The highest thiamine content in raw rice varieties was reported in Aiswarya (0.08mg/100g) and the lowest of 0.06 was recorded in control variety Jyothi and Samyuktha (0.060mg/100g). In parboiled samples the highest thiamine content was observed in control variety Jyothi (0.087mg) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (0.070mg/100g). The calcium content of raw rice varieties was determined and found that the highest calcium content was observed in Kanchana (5.76mg/100g) and the lowest was in Aiswarya (4.90mg/100g). The highest calcium content in parboiled samples was reported in Kanchana (6.06mg/100g) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (5.50mg/100g). Among raw red rice varieties the highest zinc content was observed in Aathira (1.32mg/100g) and Kanchana (1.32mg/100g) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (1.09mg/100g). In parboiled rice varieties, the highest zinc content was noticed in Samyuktha (1.35mg/100g) and the lowest was in Jyothi (1.25mg/100g). In both raw and parboiled samples highest iron content of 0.61mg/100g and 0.65mg/100g was observed in control variety Jyothi and the lowest of 0.39mg/100g and 0.43mg/100 was observed in Kanchana rice variety. The phosphorus content of raw red rice varieties was estimated and found that the highest value was observed in Aiswarya (131.96mg/100g) and the lowest was in Aathira (127.60mg/100g). In parboiled samples the highest was reported in Aiswarya (132.60mg/100g) and the lowest of 129.93 was observed in Aathira variety. The highest in vitro digestibility in raw rice varieties was observed in Aathira (79.06%) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (72.46%). The highest starch digestibility in parboiled samples was noticed in Aathira (76.16%) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (70.06%). The bran oil content of rice varieties was assessed and found that among raw red rice varieties the highest oil content was noticed in Samyuktha (2.10g) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (1.26g). In parboiled samples the highest oil content was observed in Aathira (2.16g) and the lowest was in Aiswarya (1.86g) and control variety Jyothi (1.86g). From organoleptic evaluation of products it was found that all the selected varieties were suitable for table rice. Rice variety Kanchana was found to be the most suitable variety for the preparation of idli. For the preparation of idiyappam Ezhome-4 was found to be the most suitable variety. From the present study it was found that quality attributes of selected red rice varieties were comparable with control variety Jyothi. All the varieties showed an increase in physical quality parameters after parboiling. All the selected red rice varieties are suitable for the preparation of traditional food products. The information on grain quality characteristics can be utilised to popularise these red rice varieties specifying the product suitability.
Open Access
Standardisation of nursery management practices in pachotti (symplocos cochinchinensis (lour.) s. moore)
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2018) Ajil, M S; KAU; Deepa, S Nair
The study entitled “Standardisation of nursery management practices in pachotti (Symplocos cochinchinennsis (Lour.) S. Moore)” was carried out in the Department of Plantation Crops and spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani durng 2017-18. The objective of the study was to evaluate the propagation efficiency of different propagules viz., seeds, stem cuttings and root cuttings and to standardise the potting media for the nursery plants of pachotti. The propagules viz., seeds, stem cuttings and root cuttings for the study were sourced form Jawaharlal Nehru tropical Botanical Gardens and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram and from Wayanad district. The seeds were subjected to in vivo and in vitro germination studies. In in vivo study, among the pretreatments tried, viz., physical treatments, chemical priming and bio priming, only physical treatment of scarification (with sand paper) responded with a very low germination of 2 per cent. The germination commenced after two months of the treatment. Other in vivo pretreatments as well as in vitro treatments did not give any germination. In vegetative propagation, stem cuttings were exposed dto hormone/chemicals (auxins, phloroglucinol and salicylic acid (SA) pretreatments for two hours before planting. When pretreated with SA @ 10 and 20 mg L -1, at three months after planting, the hardwood cuttings responded with 30 pere cent survival, whith a shoot length of 2.99 mcm and 3.62cm, respectively. The semihardwood cuttings pretreated with SA@ 20 mg L-1 responded with 23.33 per cent survival with a higher shoot length of 3.72 cm. Both the hardwood and semi hardwood cuttings pretreated with SA 20 mgL-1 had on par values with respect to shoot length. Root cuttings were pretreated with different concentrations of various types of auxins. Root cuttings pretreated with IAA @ 250 mg L -1, after three months of planting responded with 33.33 per cent survival with a shoot length of 5.73 cm. Though root cuttings had slightly higher survival percent and shoot length, hardwood cuttings were selected for the valuation of potting media due to better availability and ease in procurement. The three month old hardwood cuttings pretreated with SA @ mgL-1 were then transplanted to ten different potting media comprising of two basal media viz., soil:coipith compost :cowdung (1:1:1) (B1) and soil : soirpith compost : vermicompost (1:1:1) (B2), and each in combination with biofertilisers @ 5g plant -1 viz., PGPR (Plant Growth Promotng Rhizobacteria) Mix I, Azospirillum, PSB (Phosphorus Solubilising Bacteria ) and AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi). At fourth month after transplanting, B2 in combination with biofertilisers were found to be significantly superior to B2, B1 and B1 in combination with biofertilisers with respect to morphological parameters. B2 +PGPR Mix I recorded highest shoot length (11.50 cm) and number of leaves (10.50) which was on par with B2+Azospirillum, B2+PSB and B2+AMF; the highest number of branches (1.92) was observed in B2+ Azospiriillum which was on par with the treatments , B2+ PGPR Mix I, B2+PSB and B2+AMF. The fresh and dry weight of shoots were the highest (21.35 g and 4.78 g respectively) in B2 +PGPR Mix I which was on par with B2+ AMF. B2+ AMF recorded highest values (4.77 cm, 0.30 mm, 3.28 g and 0.0092 g, respectively) with respect to root growth parameters viz., root length, root girth , fresh and dry weight of roots. The physiological parameters, leaf area index (1.36) and leaf area duration (34.63 days) were the highest in B2+ PGPR Mix I which was on par with B2 in combination with other biofertilisers. The phytochemical analysis indicated that carbohydrate content (80.9 mg g-1) of plant tissue was the highest in B2+PGPR Mix 1, which was on par with B2+PSB, B2+Azospirrillum and B2+AMF. Chlorophyll content was found to the highest (1.20 mg g-1) in B2+ Azospirillum which was on par with B2+PGPR Mix I. The same treatment recorded the highest soluble protein content (20.31mg g-1) and it was on par with B2 in combination other biofertilisers. The nutrient analysis of plant tissue showed that nitrogen (2.22 percent ) and potassium (2.15 per cent ) content was significantly higher in B2+ Azospirillum. B2+PSB Recorded higher phosphorus content (0.26 per cent) among the treatments. The study indicated that nursery plants in the potting media B2 in combination with biofertilizers gave better performance with respect to morphological parmeters, physiological parameters, phytochemicals and plant nutrients. Among the various potting media tried, B2+AMF recorded significantly higher plant growth potential (0.522) followed by B2 + PGPR Mix I (0.428). In the study, hardwood cuttings were identified as the preferred planting material for the nursery establishment of pachotti. The cuttings could be treated with salicylic acid @ 20 mg L-1 for initial establishment of nursery plants. The preferred potting media for transplanting the established cuttings for raising the nursery plants of pachotti is Soil : Coirpith compost : Vermicompost (1:1:1) +AMF (5g/plant).
Open Access
Evaluation of garlic (Allium sativum L.) genotypes in the high ranges of Idukki district of Kerala
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Shibana, S N; KAU; Jalaja, S Menon
Garlic (Allium sativum L.), an important foreign exchange earner, is used as a spice or condiment throughout the country. India ranks second in area and production of garlic in the world. In Kerala, garlic cultivation is confined to Devikulam block of Idukki district and it is cultivated commercially in Kanthalloor and Vattavada panchayats. Singapore, Mettupalayam and Malapoondu are the major local cultivars prevalent in this area. Information on the performance of improved garlic varieties in the high range of Kerala is lacking. Hence, the present study was undertaken with an objective to evaluate the performance of various garlic genotypes for yield and quality in the Kanthalloor panchayat of Idukki district. The experiment was conducted in farmers’ fields of Kanthalloor panchayat during first crop season from May-September 2017. Nine released varieties like Yamuna Safed, Yamuna Safed-2, Yamuna Safed-3, Yamuna Safed-8, Yamuna Safed- 9, Bhima Omkar, Bhima Purple, AAS-2, Ooty-1 and one local cultivar were evaluated for biometric characters and biochemical parameters. In all genotypes, stem colour was yellowish green. Anthocyanin pigmentation at the base of pseudostem was noticed in all genotypes except Yamuna Safed-9, Bhima Omkar and local cultivar. The local cultivar was early in germination (8 days) and also recorded a higher value of Visual Index of Dormancy (80.89%). The field survival per cent at two months after planting was high in Yamuna Safed-9 (97%), Yamuna Safed- 3 (96%) and AAS-2 (96%). At two months after planting, local cultivar recorded highest plant height, leaf width and neck thickness, whereas number of leaves per plant was highest in AAS-2. At the time of harvest Yamuna Safed-3 recorded highest plant height, number of leaves per plant and neck thickness but the leaf width was high in local cultivar. The genotypes AAS-2 and local cultivar had shortest duration of 95 days. White coloured bulbs were observed in Yamuna Safed, Yamuna Safed-8 and Bhima Omkar. In all genotypes bulbs were oval in shape in longitudinal section. The skin colour of clove was cream in general, but it was purple in Yamuna Safed-9 and Bhima Purple and pink in AAS-2. Invariably the clove flesh colour was yellow in all genotypes evaluated. Single clove bulbs were observed in genotypes Yamuna Safed-8, Yamuna Safed-2 and Yamuna Safed (79.16%, 25.17% and 22.26% respectively) which indicate that these genotypes were poor in clove differentiation in the agro ecological situations of Kanthalloor during first crop season. The genotypes local cultivar and Yamuna Safed-3 recorded a high fresh bulb weight (15.66g and 15.31g respectively). The variety AAS-2 recorded highest number of cloves per bulb (16). The number of cloves per bulb in Yamuna Safed-3 (14.47) was on par with AAS-2. The variety Yamuna Safed-3 recorded highest estimated yield per hectare (5.96t) followed by local cultivar and Ooty-1 (4.48t and 4.47t respectively). Fresh bulb weight showed highly significant positive correlation with leaf width, plant girth, plant height, leaf length, equatorial diameter, polar diameter and clove length. The genotypes were grouped into five non-overlapping clusters based on yield and yield attributing characters. The genotypes Yamuna Safed-3 and local cultivar, the high yielders fall in cluster 2 and it has the least distance to cluster 5 which includes Ooty-1. But considering the important yield and quality aspects in trade i.e. yield, fresh bulb weight, clove weight, essential oil content and pungency the local cultivar was found to be the promising genotype over Yamuna Safed-3. But when the genotypes were ranked considering the important yield and quality aspects in trade, the local cultivar was found to be the promising genotype over Yamuna Safed-3.
Open Access
Survey, characterization and evaluation of clove (Syzigium aromaticum (L) Merr. and Perry) accessions
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2018) Avinash, M; KAU; Sreekala, G S
The present study entitled “Survey, characterization and evaluation of clove (Syzigium aromaticum (L) Merr. & Perry) accessions” was taken up with the specific objective to characterize and evaluate clove accessions based on morphological and biochemical parameters. The Survey was carried out in the major clove growing plantations of Trivandrum, Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala and Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, as these districts harboured the major clove population. Twenty varied accessions were tagged as BRC-1, BRC-2, BRC-3, BRC-4, MRC- 5, MRC-6, MRC-7, MRC-8, AMC-9, AMC-10, AMC-11, AMC-12, AMC-13, MMC-14, MMC-15, BLC-16, BLC-17, BLC-18, MGC-19 and ANC-20 based on the name of the estates/location from where the trees were identified. Twenty one qualitative and thirty four quantitative characters were recorded. Qualitative characters included tree, leaf, bud, flower, fruit and seed characters. Considerable variation was noticed among the accessions for the qualitative characters namely canopy shape, branching pattern, colour of young leaf, colour of mature leaf, leaf lamina shape, leaf apex shape, bud forming season, bud clustering habit, bud size, colour of hypanthium, petal colour, sepal colour, colour of stigma, fruit shape and seed shape. Few characters like leaf arrangement, position of flower, colour of peduncle, mature fruit colour, ripe fruit colour and seed colour were non variable characters among the accessions evaluated. Bivariate analysis of major qualitative characters revealed major association between canopy shape and branching pattern; colour of young leaf and petal colour, sepal colour and colour of stigma; colour of mature leaf and bud size; and fruit shape and seed shape. The multivariate qualitative clustering using UPGMA method resulted in 13 clusters, at default 80% similarity. Quantitative characterisation of bud, flower, fruit, seed and quality parameters summarised based on the descriptive statistics revealed wider range of variability in number of inflorescence per m2 and single bud weight fresh and dry. The quality parameters assessed among the accessions revealed eugenol as the main constituent with a content range of 54.29 to 70.77%. GC MS analysis of the bud oils of the elite clove accessions exhibited 25 constituents, the major being p-eugenol, eugenyl acetate, β-caryophyllene, β-cubebene and α-humulene. The principal component analysis undertaken reduced the thirty two quantitative characteristics to two principal components accounting for 88.8% of total variation. Stem girth at 45 cm height, and single bud weight, fresh and dry; displayed high correlation with the first axis while number of inflorescence per m2 highly influenced the second axis indicating that these characters have an important role in clustering of clove accessions. A score plot generated based on the first two principal components using Minitab version 18 identified fourteen clusters. The parallelism between qualitative and quantitative clusters resulted in intuitive perceived quantitative characterisation, which tells the extent to which one can conceive the quantitative characters of clove based on easily identifiable qualitative characters. The linkage of characters analysed based on the biplot of component loadings revealed strong positive association between all the quantitative characters measured except girth at 45 cm height, number of branches, number of inflorescence per m2, single bud weight (fresh), single bud weight (dry) and fresh bud yield per tree. A near zero correlation was observed between number of inflorescence per m2 and single bud weight (fresh) and single bud weight (dry) as indicated by the perpendicular of the vectors. The results of the study indicated that by observing the qualitative characters and the minimum data set characters in the bearing season, one can optimally sort out the ideotype clove accessions. Identification of an ideotype using existing data revealed accessions BRC-1, MRC-5, MRC-6 and BRC-3 as ideotypes and thus can be suggested as elite accessions for further study and breeding work.
Open Access
Standardisation of grafting in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) and watermelon Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)
(Department of Olericulture, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Akhila, A N; KAU; Sarah, T George
The present study entitled ‘Standardisation of grafting in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.))’ was undertaken with the objectives of identifying the best rootstocks for grafting bitter gourd and watermelon, comparison of two grafting methods namely, hole insertion grafting (HIG) and tongue approach grafting (TAG) and evaluation of various cucurbitaceous rootstocks on survival, growth and yield of bitter gourd and watermelon. Bitter gourd (var. Preethi) and watermelon (var. Sugar Baby) were used as the scion materials for standardisation of grafting. Six different rootstocks namely ash gourd, bottle gourd, smooth gourd, pumpkin, oriental pickling melon and self rootstocks were used in the study. Grafting experiments were laid out in completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications and 25 plants per replication. Field experiments were laid out in randomised block design (RBD) with three replications and three plants per replication. Based on days taken for germination and days to attain graftable size, sowing of rootstock and scion seeds were adjusted so that they attain grafting stage uniformly. Criteria for rootstock and scion to attain graftable size was based on hypocotyl thickness of stock and scion and its suitability for grafting operation. Pumpkin (9.99 days) and bottle gourd (10.43 days) took lesser number of days to attain graftable size due to larger diameter of hypocotyls (7.17 mm and 9.93 mm respectively). Even though OP melon took less number of days for germination, days taken to attain graftable size (17.57 days) was more due its slender hypocotyl (3.13 mm). To confirm the best stage of rootstocks for grafting, three age groups viz., 5-7, 10-12 and 15-17 days old rootstocks were used for grafting scions of age group 7-10 days. For ash gourd, smooth gourd and OP melon, optimum age group was from 10-12 days after germination while bottle gourd, pumpkin and bitter gourd had no significant difference in graft success among the age groups studied and all the age groups performed equally well. Grafting was not successful when watermelon was used as rootstock in all the three age groups. In terms of graft success, in HIG, for bitter gourd the best rootstock was smooth gourd (80.00 %) followed by pumpkin (77.00 %), bottle gourd (75.00 %), ash gourd (66.00 %), OP melon (56.00 %) and self rootstock (48.00 %) and for watermelon the best rootstock was bottle gourd (75.00 %) followed by smooth gourd (73.00 %), pumpkin (66.00 %), ash gourd (50.00 %) and OP melon (46.00 %). In TAG, graft success was not significant among the rootstocks in both bitter gourd and watermelon. On comparing the two grafting methods in terms of final graft success, HIG was superior to TAG. In bitter gourd and watermelon final graft success was 67.00 per cent and 62.00 per cent respectively for HIG while for TAG graft success was 15.17 per cent and 14.60 per cent respectively. Grafting done during the months of June, July and August gave higher graft success compared to May, September and October. Relative humidity had highly significant positive correlation with graft success while temperature had highly significant negative correlation. Anatomical studies of graft union revealed formation of necrotic layer in response to wound repair and proliferation of cells of rootstock and scion which is the stage prior to callus formation. Since the graft success and survival were very poor in tongue approach grafts, only hole insertion grafts were evaluated in the main field for studying the performance of various rootstocks. In bitter gourd, self rooted plants had highest survival rate (100.00 %) in the main field followed by plants grafted on smooth gourd (84.44 %) and bottle gourd (77.78 %). Plants grafted on bottle gourd showed earliness in terms of days to first male flower (28.45 days) and female flower (31.45 days) and days to first harvest (44.33 days) among the grafts and they were on par with self rooted control plants. Vine length, growth rate and number of primary branches were high in seedling plants and they were on par with plants grafted on smooth gourd. Plants grafted on ash gourd had fruit length of 21.03 cm which was on par with control plants. Among the grafts, highest fruit girth of 17.60 cm was noted in plants grafted on bottle gourd which was comparable to fruit girth of control plants (17.73 cm). Highest flesh thickness of 1.33 cm was noted in plants grafted on bottle gourd and self rooted control. Number of harvests per plant (10.67), crop duration (110.67 days) and total yield (3.30 kg) were higher in plants grafted on smooth gourd compared to self rooted control plants. In organoleptic evaluation, fruits obtained from plants grafted on bottle gourd was the most accepted one with a total score of 20.00, closely followed by fruits from grafts on pumpkin rootstock. Fruits were less bitter in grafts on bottle gourd and pumpkin compared to other grafts. In watermelon, survival rate was highest in plants grafted onto bottle gourd (79.99 %) followed by plants grafted on ash gourd (77.78 %) and smooth gourd (77.78 %). Least number of days to first female flower was noted in seedling plants (40.67) which was on par with plants grafted on ash gourd (42.33 days). Lower node to first female flower appearance was noted in control plants (21.00) followed by plants grafted on bottle gourd (22.97). The period of graft success did not coincide with the actual planting season of watermelon in Kerala and therefore the performance of grafts in the field was very poor. There was severe vine decline during reproductive stage of watermelon crop. Further research should focus on screening of rootstocks for pest and disease resistance, optimisation of graft healing conditions for year round production of grafted seedlings and optimisation of grafting time in watermelon such that it coincides with planting season in Kerala.

Theses

Browse

Thesis Type

Type

Author

Date

Subject

Search Results