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ThesisItem Open Access Evaluation of bush dolichos bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet] for yield and quality(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2020) Maneesha, P K; KAU; Sarada, SThe present investigation entitled “Evaluation of bush dolichos bean [Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet] for yield and quality” was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, from June 2019- December 2020 to evaluate the adaptability of bush dolichos bean in Kerala based on growth, yield and quality. The experimental material consisted of 25 bush dolichos bean genotypes. The experiment was laid out in RBD with two replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the twenty five genotypes for all the characters studied. Among the genotypes, HA- 4 recorded the highest plant height of 65.75 cm. The variety HA-3 recorded the highest plant spread of 48.95 cm. The highest number of primary branches plant-1 was recorded by HA-4 (5.70), Arka Jay (5.65) and HA-3 (5.55) were on par with it. HA-4 recorded the highest leaf area of 13.35 cm2. Earliest flowering was observed in the genotype VRBSEM- 15 (22.95 days), while first flower appearance was late in HA- 4 (67.00 days). Fifty percent flowering was earliest in VRBSEM- 15 (25.95 days). The highest number of racemes plant-1 was recorded in HA-4 (6.46) and the longest raceme in the variety Arka Jay (34.35 cm). Arka Sambram was the earliest to harvest (61.30 days) followed by Arka Soumya (61.80 days), which were on par. The highest per centage of pod setting was recorded in HA-4 (14.85) followed by HA-3(14.50), which were on par. Co (Gb) 14 recorded the highest pod length (10.63 cm), pod girth (2.60 cm) and pod weight (6.75 g). Among the twenty five genotypes, nineteen genotypes exhibited light green pod colour, five dark green pod colour and one reddish green pod colour. The highest number of pods plant-1 was found in HA-4 (47.75). The seed colour of eleven genotypes was red, eight pale white, three white, two black and one light brown. The highest number of seeds pod-1 was in Co (Gb) 14 (4.35), which was on par with Arka Jay (4.25) and VRBSEM- 8 (4.25). Co (Gb) 14 recorded the highest weight of 100 seeds (35.45 g). The highest yield of 152.87 was recorded by Co (Gb) 14 which was on par with Arka Jay (148.82g) and HA-4 (148.52g). The highest yield plot-1 of 3.057 kg was recorded by Co (Gb) 14. Two genotypes, viz., Arka Jay (2.976 kg) and HA-4 (2.970 kg) were on par with it. Co (Gb) 14 recorded the highest crude protein and fibre content of 21.40 and 2.050 per cent respectively. The cooking quality of all the twenty five genotypes were found to be good. Incidence of leaf webber and anthracnose disease was noticed. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV) were observed for the characters like days to first flowering, pod setting, pod length, pods plant-1, yield plant-1, yield plot-1 and fibre content. High estimates of heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for the yield components. Yield plant-1 had a significant positive correlation at genotypic and phenotypic level with raceme length, plant height, pod length, primary branches plant-1, number of racemes plant-1, plant spread, days to first flowering, pod girth and pod weight. Path coefficient analysis revealed that raceme length (0.9760) exerted the highest positive direct effect on yield plant-1 followed by number of racemes plant-1, primary branches plant-1, plant height, pod girth and pod weight. The genotypes were ranked based on selection index score considering the characters viz., plant height, primary branches plant-1, number of racemes plant-1, raceme length, pod girth and pod weight. HA-4 recorded the highest selection index score of 136.72. Based on the mean performance of the genotypes for various characters and selection index score, the top ranking genotypes HA-4, Co (Gb) 14 and HA-3 were found suitable for growing under Kerala conditions.ThesisItem Open Access Evaluation of biostimulants in growbag culture of organic Amaranthus (Amaranthus tricolor L.)(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2020) Sherinlincy, A; KAU; Refeekher, MThe study entitled “Evaluation of biostimulants in growbag culture of organic Amaranthus (Amaranthus tricolor)’’ was conducted in the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani in order to evaluate the effect of biostimulants under different application methods in growbag cultivation of organic amaranthus. Amaranthus variety Arun was raised in seed bed and transplanted 21 days after sowing to growbags. Experiments were laid out in CRD with two factors replicated thrice for evaluation of biostimulants and method of application. Foliar application and wick fertigation were the two methods of application under the study for which wick fertigation were installed using pvc pipes and glass wool wicks were used. Biostimulants such as humic acid (3%), humic acid fulvic acid mixture (3%), moringa leaf extract (3%), vermiwash (3%), cow urine (ten times diluted), salicylic acid (50 mgL-1) were compared with RDF (0.22:0.11:0.11 g/plant) and distilled water (control) at weekly intervals. Humic-fulvic acid mixture @ 3% through foliar application significantly increased the height of plant (85.83 cm), leaf length (15.08 cm) and leaf width (6.80 cm). Vermiwash @ 3% through wick fertigation exhibited the highest number of leaves per plant (118.83). Humic – fulvic acid mixture @ 3% through foliar application was also effective in increasing the branches per plant (11.66) while distilled water through wick fertigation recorded least number of branches per plant (4.66). Longest root length (34.16 cm) was recorded when humic acid @ 3% were applied through foliar application compared to control (18.66 cm). Late bolting was recorded with humic acid @ 3%, humic-fulvic acid mixture @ 3% and RDF through foliar application. Earlier bolting was recorded in salicylic acid @ 50 mgL-1 through wick fertigation. Application of salicylic acid @ 50 mgL-1 through wick fertigation significantly increased the leaf/stem ratio (0.50) which was at par with vermiwash @ 3% through wick fertigation (0.45). The total fresh weight of leaves per plant was significantly higher (225.85g) for humic – fulvic acid mixture @ 3% followed by RDF and humic acid @ 3%. At first, second and third harvest, significantly higher yield per cutting was recorded in ten times diluted cowurine (30.64g), RDF (171.62 g), humic – fulvic acid mixture @ 3 % (170.73g) through foliar application respectively while the lowest was recorded by distilled water through wick fertigation. Humic – fulvic acid mixture @ 3% through foliar application also recorded highest yield per plant (646.01 g) compared to distilled water through foliar application (180.72 g). Humic acid @ 3% through foliar application enhanced vitamin C content (98.20 mg100g-1) while ten times diluted cow urine through wick fertigation recorded the lowest vitamin C (57.14 mg100g-1). Oxalate content was observed low for moringa leaf extract @ 3% through wick fertigation with 0.69 mg. Moringa leaf extract @ 3 % through foliar application enhanced the carotenoid content (7.38 mg100-1g). Ten times diluted cow urine through foliar application produced highest calcium content (3.70 mg100-1g). Biostimulants as well as method of application had no significant effect on stem girth and soil parameters such as soil pH, EC, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. In conclusion, biostimulants and foliar method of application was found to be effective for improving growth, yield and quality of amaranthus in growbag organic cultivation. Among the biostimulants, humic – fulvic acid mixture @ 3% produced the highest plant height, leaf length, leaf width, branches per plant, fresh weight of leaves, yield and B:C ratio (1.35) compared to control (0.22).ThesisItem Open Access Performance of beet root (Beta vulgaris L) for growth yield and quality(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2020) Arya, P J; KAU; Sarada, SThe present investigation entitled “Performance of beet root (Beta vulgaris L.) for growth, yield and quality” was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, during October 2019 - February 2020 to evaluate the adaptability of beet root in Kerala based on growth, yield and quality. The experimental material consisted of 30 beet root genotypes, including twenty two varieties and eight hybrids. The experiment was laid out in RBD with three replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the twenty two varieties and the eight hybrids for all the characters studied. Among the varieties, Tetra recorded the highest plant height of 38.32 cm and among hybrids, Ragini was the tallest (31.07 cm) and Remo (30.77 cm) was on par with it. The variety Ruby Queen (Pradham Seeds) recorded the highest number of leaves (13.45). BV 21 (12.96) and Tetra (12.65) were on par with it. Among hybrids, Remo (9.79) recorded the highest number of leaves, Red Star (Sakura) (9.70) was on par with it. Madhur recorded the highest root length of 7.43 cm among varieties and Red Star (Sakura) (7.41 cm) among hybrids. The variety Madhur recorded the highest root diameter of 5.33 cm and Ruby Queen (Tokita) (5.25 cm), Detroit Dark Red (5.16 cm) and Mahyco Lal ӀІ (5.15 cm) were statistically on par with it. The hybrid Red Star (Sakura) recorded the highest root diameter of 5.50 cm, which was on par with Ragini (5.32 cm). Among varieties, Madhur recorded the highest root weight (118.05 g), root: shoot ratio (4.42) and yield per plot (5.68 kg) and among hybrids, Red Star (Sakura) recorded the highest root weight (91.27 g), root: shoot ratio (3.61) and yield per plot (4.27 kg). The varieties, Madhur, Tetra and Ruby Queen (Tokita) were early with a crop duration of 96 days, while the hybrids, Red Star (Sakura), Red Horse and RK 777 were early with a crop duration of 98 days. T.S.S content was the highest for the variety K 5340 (15.70 0B) and hybrid RK 777 (14.50 0B). The highest carotenoid content was recorded for Mahyco Lal II among varieties (1.50 mg 100g-1) and Red Horse among hybrids (1.74 mg 100g-1). Madhur recorded the highest total sugars (6.45 %) and non reducing sugars (6.03 %) among varieties, while Red Star (Sakura) among hybrids (6.50 % and 6.04 % respectively). Among varieties Crimson Globe recorded the highest reducing sugars (1.00 %) and RK 777 (1.00 %) among hybrids. Sensory evaluation revealed the superiority of the variety Madhur and the hybrid Red Star (Sakura) for appearance, colour, taste and overall acceptability over other varieties and hybrids. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation (PCV and GCV) were observed for the characters leaf breadth, foliage weight, root weight, root: shoot ratio and yield per plot of varieties. For hybrids, high PCV and GCV was observed for root length, root weight, root: shoot ratio and yield per plot. For both varieties and hybrids, high estimates of heritability coupled with moderate to high genetic advance as per cent of mean were recorded for all the yield components, indicating additive gene action. Root weight had a significant positive correlation at genotypic and phenotypic level with leaf breadth, root length, root diameter, root: shoot ratio and yield per plot, both for varieties and hybrids. Path coefficient analysis of varieties revealed that root: shoot ratio (0.687) exerted the highest positive direct effect on root weight followed by root length, foliage weight, plant height and root diameter. Root diameter (3.094) exerted a maximum direct effect on root weight of hybrids followed by root: shoot ratio, leaf breadth, leaves per plant and leaf length. The varieties were ranked based on selection index score considering the characters viz., plant height, foliage weight, root diameter, root length, root weight and root: shoot ratio. Madhur recorded the highest selection index score of 192.52. The hybrids were ranked based on selection index score considering the characters viz. leaves per plant, leaf length, leaf breadth, root diameter, root weight and root: shoot ratio and Red Star (Sakura) recorded the highest score of 148.90. Based on the mean performance of the varieties and the hybrids for various characters and selection index score, the top ranking varieties Madhur, Tetra, Mahyco Lal ІІ and Ruby Queen (Tokita) and the hybrids Red Star (Sakura), Ragini, Red Horse and F 1 Kingdom were found suitable for growing under Kerala conditions.ThesisItem Open Access Evaluation of dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet) accession (Pole type) for yield and quality(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2020) Nidhin Raj; KAU; Anitha, PDolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) is a multi-purpose crop cultivated in both tropical and sub-tropical conditions. The tender pods rich in protein, fibre, iron and calcium are used as vegetable and dried seeds as pulse. Tender leaves are cooked and consumed as vegetable. The pole types are photosensitive in nature preferring short days and comparatively cool season for flowering. Despite of its multi-utility and multiple benefits, its cultivation is done in limited area only. Thus, there is a huge scope to expand cultivation to non-conventional regions which would assure nutritional and income security for the farmers. The efforts for genetic enhancement of this crop also has been limited. In this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives of determining the genetic variability, genetic divergence and character associations among dolichos bean accessions for yield and yield contributing traits and to evaluate the accessions for quality. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during September 2019- April 2020. The dolichos bean accessions were catalogued as per the NBPGR Minimal Descriptor for Characterization and Evaluation of Agri-Horticultural crops (2000). The flower colour varied from white to purple. The pod colour varied from light green, green to purple. Green pods with purple border were observed in LP-2, LP-12, LP-19, LP-31, LP-32 and LP-35. Purple pods were observed in LP-11, LP-17 and LP-22. The pod shape varied from straight, intermediate to curved. Based on the reaction to bacterial wilt disease, the accessions were categorized into susceptible and resistant. The accessions, LP-1, LP-5, LP-6, LP-9 and LP-14 were highly susceptible and showed 100 per cent bacterial wilt incidence. The analysis of variance of the 25 accessions showed significant differences among them for all traits under study. Genetic parameters like GCV, PCV, heritability, GA and GAM were estimated to study the nature and extent of variability. High GCV, PCV, heritability and GAM were exhibited by the characters green pod yield/plant, number of seeds/pod, pod length, pod girth, pod weight, number of pods/plant and total phenols which indicated the presence of high variability and additive gene action for these traits. Hence, these traits can be improved through selection. Quality traits viz., iron, calcium, total phenols, and phytic acid exhibited close association between PCV and GCV. In addition, moderate to high heritability and GAM were observed indicating that phenotypic values were a true measure of the genotype and the improvement of these traits is possible through selection. Green pod yield per plant was significantly, positively correlated with number of pods per plant, number of harvests, duration of the crop, calcium and crude protein. Further, green pod yield per plant was positively correlated with number of pods per cluster, pod length, pod weight and pod girth. However, these correlations were not significant which indicated their independent nature with respect to yield. Path coefficient analysis of yield and its component characters revealed that the highest direct positive effect on green pod yield per plant was exhibited by number of pods per plant followed by days to first flowering, pod weight, number of seeds per pod and duration of the crop. Hence direct selection of accessions based on these traits would improve yield. From the present study, accessions viz., LP-2, LP-13 and LP-34 could be selected as promising ones based on these traits. Twenty five accessions of dolichos bean were grouped into six clusters based on D2 values. Cluster VI had highest number of accessions (8) followed by cluster III (6). Cluster I and II had four accessions each. There were two accessions in cluster IV and one accession in cluster V. Inter cluster distance was maximum between cluster IV and cluster V. Hence, superior hybrids could be obtained by hybridization among the accessions present in these clusters. Sensory evaluation was conducted in the cooked pods to score the accessions based on their appearance, colour, flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability. LP- 31, LP-28 and LP-13 were superior in sensory qualities. The selection criteria for dolichos bean was fixed by taking the characters such as green pod yield per plant, number of pods per plant, pod weight, days to first flowering and overall acceptability of sensory evaluation and the accessions LP-28, LP- 13, LP-12, LP-2 and LP-35 were identified as the most promising ones based on this.ThesisItem Open Access Breeding for yellow vein mosaic virus (YVMV) resistance in OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2020) Alphy, Mathew; KAU; Pradeepkumar, TOkra is one of the most important vegetable crops grown in India for its tender green fruits. The cultivation of okra is constrained by various pests and diseases. Among the diseases, Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (YVMD) is the most dreadful disease which affects both the quality of fruit and yield adversely. It is a viral disease caused by Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV) and is transmitted by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci). The only practical solution to this problem is development of resistant or tolerant varieties. The resistant varieties released in the past became susceptible due to the development of new strains of virus or due to the recombination in the virus strain. In this background, the present study entitled “Breeding for Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (YVMV) resistance in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]” was undertaken with the objective of evaluating and identifying resistant varieties/lines of okra against YVMV for augmenting effective resistant breeding programme in okra. The present study was carried out at Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during the period of 2018-2020. The experimental material consisted of 34 genotypes of okra which were sown in randomized block design with two replications. Out of 34 genotypes, 30 were collected from NBPGR Regional station, Akola. Remaining genotypes included Arka Anamika and KAU varieties namely Aruna, Salkeerthi and Susthira. The genotypes were evaluated for their qualitative and quantitative characters and described based on the NBPGR Minimal Descriptor for Characterization and Evaluation of Agri-Horticultural Crops (2000). All the 34 genotypes were evaluated under natural conditions for the selection of resistant/tolerant ones. The disease reaction of genotypes to Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease (YVMD) were evaluated based on the parameters viz., percent disease incidence, percent disease severity and coefficient of infection. Based on the values of coefficient of infection, the genotypes were classified as resistant, susceptible and highly susceptible. The results revealed the presence of highly resistant to highly susceptible genotypes in the present study. Six genotypes (EC 305645, EC 305651, EC 305674, IC 13995, IC 14845 and Arka Anamika) were grouped as highly susceptible, 27 genotypes as susceptible and Susthira as highly resistant. Among the genotypes evaluated, Susthira showed resistance to YVMD at all stages of crop growth under field conditions. Resistance of Susthira was further confirmed under protected conditions using vector transmission method. Hence, Susthira can be used as a source of resistance for developing YVMD resistant/tolerant varieties. The extent of variability present in the germplasm were studied using the parameters viz., phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability and genetic advance. High heritability and genetic advance were observed for the characters viz., plant height, internodal length, number of fruits per plant, number of seeds per fruit, crop duration, number of ridges per fruit, 100 seed weight, average fruit weight, number of harvest, days to first symptom appearance, yield per plant and coefficient of infection of YVMD at 80 and 90 days after sowing. The results of correlation and path coefficient analysis revealed that the characters viz., plant height, average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, crop duration and number of harvest had positive correlation and positive direct effect on yield. Hence, direct selection using these traits would enhance yield. Organoleptic evaluation of all the 34 genotypes were also done. The results revealed the superiority of genotypes IC 15027, IC 15540 and EC 305647 with respect to sensory qualities. The selection of superior genotypes were done based on the characters viz., number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, fruit length, yield per plant and overall acceptability of organoleptic evaluation. The genotypes viz., IC 15027, IC 15540, EC 305647, EC 305650 and EC 305642 were found superior for these characters even though they were susceptible to the disease. Hence, these genotypes can be crossed with Susthira for developing high yielding YVMD resistant varieties.ThesisItem Open Access Breeding for resistance to fruit fly (Zeugodacus spp.) in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo(L.)var.conomon Mak.)(Department of vegetable science,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2020) Silpa, Ramachandran.; KAU; Anitha, P“Breeding for resistance to fruit fly (Zeugodacus spp.) in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo (L.) var. conomon Mak.) ABSTRACT Melon fruit fly (Zeugodacus spp.) is one of the major pests in cucurbits and it causes a loss of 32-100 per cent depending upon seasons and prevailing climatic conditions. The developing resistant varieties either by selection from germplasm lines or through backcross breeding is an economical way to reduce fruit loss in oriental pickling melon. Keeping this in view, the present investigations entitled “Breeding for resistance to fruit fly (Zeugodacus spp.) in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo (L.) var. conomon. Mak.)” was undertaken to identify sources of resistance to fruit fly infestation form germplasm; to incorporate fruit fly resistance into high yielding genotypes and to study the genetics of inheritance. Two separate experiments were designed for the study. Fifty three oriental pickling melon accessions were catalogued as per Minimal Descriptor of Vegetable Crops- Cucumis melo (L.)- NBPGR (2000). High variability was observed for all the morphological traits except flower colour. Oblate followed by globular and elongate were the predominant fruit shapes. White, creamy white, white with orange shade were observed for flesh colour. Fruit taste was sour, sweet; none of the accessions had bitterness. The traits viz., node of first female flower, vine length, number of seeds per fruit, number of fruits per plant, days to last harvest and percentage of fruit fly infestation exhibited high GCV, PCV, heritability and GA which indicated that these traits were highly heritable and could be improved through selection. Yield per plant was positively, significantly correlated with number of branches per plant, fruit diameter, fruit girth, fruit length, fruit weight, seed cavity length, seed cavity breadth and number of fruits per plant. High heritability was exhibited by all these traits. Therefore, simultaneous selection for these traits would improve yield. Significant negative correlations to fruit fly infestation were observed for traits viz., fruit diameter, fruit rind thickness, flesh thickness, marketable yield per plant, days to fruit fly infestation after anthesis. These traits exhibited high heritability hence, direct selection of higher mean values would improve yield and fruit fly resistance. Mahalanobis D2 analysis grouped the 53 accessions into 8 clusters. Cluster I had maximum number of accessions (12) followed by cluster II (9). The maximum inter cluster D2 value was between cluster VI and cluster V. Cluster mean for yield contributing traits were high in cluster V which consisted the promising accessions viz., CM022, CM045, CM047 and CM051. Cluster mean for fruit fly resistance contributing traits were high in cluster IV and cluster VI, where the promising accessions with respect to fruit fly resistance viz., CM012, CM033, CM034 and CM056were distributed. Two species of fruit fly were identified viz., Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Zeugodacus tau during the crop seasons. Hybridization was undertaken to incorporate fruit fly resistance into high yielding accessions from wild as well as resistant genotypes. Accessions viz., CM022, CM033, CM045, CM047, CM051, CM060, CM061 and CM062 selected as female parents; fruit fly resistant genotypes (Cucumis melo var. agrestis (W-10), Cucumis melo var. agrestis (W-51), Cucumis melo ssp. callosus and CM033) were selected as male parents. Thirty one F1’s were evaluated for morphological characters and resistance to fruit fly. High variability was observed for all the morphological traits except flower colour. Oblate followed by elliptical and elongate were the predominant fruit shapes. White, creamy white, white with orange shade were observed for flesh colour. Fruit taste was sour, sweet and bitter. Based on yield, quality, absence of bitterness and resistance to fruit fly, four F1’s were selected viz., CM045 x CM033(3.04kg) (Cross I), CM061 x CM033 (3.26kg) (Cross II), CM051 x Cucumis melo ssp. callosus (2.34kg) (Cross III), CM033 x Cucumis melo ssp. callosus (1.96kg)(Cross IV) for generation mean analysis. Generation mean analysis revealed that earliness traits were predominantly determined by dominance (h) gene effects coupled with duplicate epistasis. Hence improvement of earliness in flowering, fruiting and harvesting may be achieved by heterosis breeding. Yield contributing traits were governed by additive x additive (i), additive x dominance (j) and dominance x dominance (l) coupled with duplicate epistasis which indicated that hybridization followed by selection is appropriate. Fruit fly resistance traits were largely determined by additive x additive (i), additive x dominance (j) and dominance x dominance (l) effects coupled with duplicate epistasis. Selection and or hybridization followed by selection can be used. Number of fruits per plant, fruit rind thickness (Cross I), fruit girth (Cross II), fruit diameter (Cross II & III), day to last harvest (Cross III) exhibited complementary epistasis with significant additive (d), additive x dominance (j) and dominance x dominance (l) gene effects revealed that selection from segregating population could improve these traits. Correlations of biochemical traits of six generations to fruit fly infestation revealed that lower content of total soluble solids, total soluble sugars, total sugars; higher content of crude protein, total phenols, silica and tannins favoured resistance to fruit fly infestation. Evaluation of sensory qualities of fresh, cooked fruits of six generations in four crosses revealed that highest overall acceptability for fresh, cooked fruits was in CM045 (P1) Cross I and CM061 (P1) CrossII. The present investigations revealed that high variability was observed for all the morphological traits and resistance to fruit fly in oriental pickling melon accessions. Two species of fruit fly viz., Zeugodacus cucurbitae and Zeugodacus tau were identified during the crop seasons which infested different accessions. High heritability was observed for yield and fruit fly resistance. Fruit diameter, fruit rind thickness and flesh thickness exhibited high heritability, significant positive correlations with yield and significant negative correlations with fruit fly infestation. Simultaneous selection based on these traits would improve yield as well as fruit fly resistance. High magnitude of fruit rind thickness, flesh thickness and days to fruit fly infestation after anthesis along with hairiness on stem and fruit contributed to fruit fly resistance. High crude protein, total phenols, tannins and silica content of fruits contributed resistance to fruit fly whereas, high sugars, total sugars, total soluble solids favored fruit fly infestation. Generation mean analysis revealed that selection from segregating generations, heterosis breeding would be appropriate to improve yield along with fruit fly resistance.ThesisItem Open Access Characterization and evaluation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) accessions for yield and quality(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture,Vellanikkara, 2019) Anitta Judy, Kurian; KAU; Anitha, PDrumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.), belonging to the family Moringaceae is one of the most useful tree with a variety of potential uses. Large variability exists in drumstick since the crop is cross pollinated and naturalized in many areas. The study entitled “Characterization and evaluation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) accessions for yield and quality’’ was conducted during January to December 2018. Twenty five accessions were catalogued based on IPGRI minimal descriptors (2013). Data on morphological, quantitative and biochemical characters were recorded for one calendar year (2018) for further analysis. Tree shape varied from upright to spreading. Grey coloured barks were recorded in majority of accessions except in VKMo 3, VKMo 4 and VKMo 8 which had white bark colour. All accessions produced pale green coloured young shoots with purple tinge. Foliage density at flowering period varied from sparse, medium to dense. Leaflet shape varied from ovate, oblong to elliptical and leaf apex from obtuse to acute. Both secondary and tertiary flowering branchlets were observed. Flowers produced in all the accessions had triangular shaped, polysepalous nature, pale green coloured calyx; corolla having triangular shape, polypetalous nature and cream colour. Fresh fruit pulp colour was white in all accessions. Taste of fresh fruit pulp was palatable in all flowering types except VKMo 3, VKMo 6, VKMo 11, VKMo 13 and VKMo 29, which were bitter in taste. Out of twenty five accessions, three were leafy types viz. VKMo 32, VKMo 35 and VKMo 38. Two peaks of flowering viz. January- April and September- November were observed in VKMo 2, VKMo 7, VKMo 12, VKMo 15, VKMo 16 and VKMo 17. Accession VKMo 3 recorded highest tree height (7.68 m) and trunk girth (65.8 cm). Accession VKMo 10 recorded highest fruit length (89.50 cm), fruit girth (6.72 cm) and number of ridges/fruit (10.50). Highest fruit weight was recorded in VKMo 9 (160.00 g). Accession VKMo 6 recorded highest number of seeds per fruit (21.20). Highest number of fruits/tree was recorded in VKMo 2 (22.21) and total fruit yield/tree in VKMo 3 (1775.54 g/tree). Estimation of biochemical characters in leaves, flowers and fruits revealed that leaves are rich sources of these biochemical characters followed by flowers and fruits, except for iron. Highest iron content was recorded in flowers, followed by leaves and fruits. Significant, positive correlation was observed between fruit yield per tree and fruit weight (0.613); fruit yield per tree and number of fruits per tree (0.896). Significant positive correlation was recorded between protein and beta-carotene (0.424); beta-carotene and phenol (0.462); protein and phenol (0.466). Significant, positive correlation was observed for beta-carotene content with rainfall (0.640) and number of rainy days (0.603). Calcium content showed a significant, positive correlation with mean temperature (0.585). Trunk girth (0.0266), fruit length (0.029), tree height (0.074), number of seeds per fruit (0.195), fruit weight (0.639) and number of fruits per tree (0.977) exhibited direct positive effect on yield. Principal component analysis for the quantitative characters revealed that, first three principal components accounted for 88.1 per cent of the total variation and was contributed by number of seeds per fruit, fruit girth, trunk girth and tree height. Clustering of the accessions resulted in formation of five clusters. Principal component analysis on biochemical characters revealed that, first two principal components accounted for 64 per cent variance and was contributed by iron, calcium, protein and vitamin C. Clustering of the accessions resulted in formation of six clusters. Overall ranking of drumstick accessions for important quantitative and biochemical characters revealed that the performance of accession VKMo 7 (87) was superior followed by accession VKMo 9 (91). Organoleptic evaluation revealed that accession VKMo 29 ranked superior for overall acceptability. Incidence of leaf eating caterpillar (Noorda blitealis) on drumstick accessions showed that seven accessions viz. VKMo 5, VKMo 11, VKMo 17, VKMo 30, VKMo 35, VKMo 36 and VKMo 38 possess tolerance to leaf eating caterpillar.ThesisItem Open Access Standardisation of grafting in bitter gourd (Momordica charanita L.)(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture,Vellayani, 2019) Aiswarya, V Dev K P; KAU; Rafeekher, MThe study entitled "Standardisation of grafting in bitter gourd{Momordica charantia L.)" was conducted in the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2017-2019 in order to identify suitable rootstocks, standardise grafting techniques and evaluate growth and performance of grafts in bitter gourd. The study was conducted in two parts. Standardisation of grafting in bitter gourd using four rootstocks was done in part I and evaluation ofthe grafted bitter gourd for growth, yield and quality was attempted in part II. Bitter gourd scion (Preetlii) and four rootstocks (sponge gourd, pumpkin, bottle gourd and bittCT gourd) were raised in protrays. Separate experiments for each roolstock, were laid out in CRD, replicated thrice for standardization of grafting. Growth regulators (alar and cycocel) at two different concentrations /.e.,10 mgL"' and 50 mgL*' were sprayed at second leaf stage forreducing seedling height of rootstocks and then grafted using three methods (hole insertion grafting, one cotyledon grafting and cleft grafting). Alar @10 mg L*' reduced plant height(7.50 cm) and enhanced diameter (2.97 mm) in sponge gourd rootstock. Faster graft union(4.11 days) was recorded forfiole insertion grafting withhighest success percentage (77.07 %). Spraying of cycocel @ 50 mg L ' resulted in the highest success percentage of 56.44 per cent. Combination of cycocel @ 50 mg L"'+ hole insertion grafting recorded highest success percentage of 86.67 when bitter gourd grafted onto sponge gourd. Though cycocel @ 10 mgL"'and 50 mgL"'improved the diameter of pumpkin rootstock, alar@ 10 mgL"' and 50 mgL'reduced the height ofthe rootstock. New leaf emerged faster (3.51 days) in hole insertion grafting but one cotyledon grafting recorded the highest success percentage (68.60 %). Cleft grafting not only took more days for graft union but also recorded least success percentage (11.20 %). Though alar @ 10 mgL*^ alar@50 mg L'* and cycocel @10 mg L'' were equally effective to improve success percentage but the combination of alar @ 10 mg L'^ + one cotyledon grafting recorded the highest success percentage of 81 per centwhen bitter gourd was grafted onto pumpkin. Application of alar @ 10 mg L'onto bottle gourd rootstock improved diameter (4.65 mm) and @ 50 mg L"'reduced height (12.61 cm). Among the grafting methods, graft united faster (3.69 days) in hole insertion method, while success percentage was tlie highest (86.40 %)for one cotyledon grafting. Growth regulator had no role in days taken for graft union and could not improve success percentage over distilled water. Application of alar @ lOmg L*' cycocel @ 10 mg L*' and 50 mg L*' were equally effective in reducing the height of bitter gourd rootstock. Alar @ 50 mg L"\ cycocel @ 10 mg L'and @ 50 mg L ' improved the diameter of the rootstock. Among grafting methods, hole insertion grafting exhibited faster union (3.57 days) with highest percentage of success (68.13 %). Cycocel @ 50 mg L"' recorded the highest percentage success among growth regulators. Based on the results of part I, grafts produced by cycocel @ 50 mgL*^ + hole insertion grafting in sponge gourd, alar @ 10 mgL'^ + one cotyledon grafting in pumpkin, distilled water (control) + one cotyledon grafting in bottle gourd and cycocel @ 50 mg L*^ + hole insertion grafting in bittergourd were selected and planted in main field along witli non grafted control in randomised block design replicated four times for evaluating growth, yield and quality of grafted bitter gourd. All grafts exhibited lower establishment over non grafted control.Bitter gourd grafted onsponge gourd andbottle gourd rootstocks as well asnon grafted control had similar vine length. Inlemodal length was more in non grafted control (6.00 cm). More branches were produced when bitter gourd and sponge gourd were used as rootstocks.Pumpkin rootstock produced longer primary root, higher root volume and root weight. Early appearance of first male and female flowers at lower nodes was also recorded in bitter gourd grafted on pumpkin rootstock. Though grafting did not significantly influence number of male flowers, the number of female flowers was higher in non grafted control and bitter gourd grafted on sponge gourd. Non grafted control, bitter gourd grafted on sponge gourd, bottle gourd and bitter gourd rootstock exhibited on par sex ratio.Non grafted control, bitter gourd grafted on pumpkin and bitter gourd recorded early harvest but bitter gourd grafted on sponge gourd and bottle gourd rootstock extended duration of the crop. Non grafted control and bitter gourd grafted on sponge gourd rootstock recorded more fruits per plant and yield per plant. Non grafted control, bitter gourd grafted onto bitter gourd and bitter gourd grafted on to sponge gourdexhibited on par fmit length. Bitter gourd grafted onto pumpkin, bitter gourd grafted onto sponge gourd, non grafted control and bitter gourd grafted onto bitter gourd had similar flesh thickness. Bottle gourd and bitter gourd rootstock enhanced fruit weight (181.50 g). Grafts did not differ for fruit girth, vitamin C content and organoleptic properties. Nongrafted control recorded highest B:C ratio (1.67)followed by sponge gourd (1.50). In conclusion, grafts of bitter gourd variety Treethi' can be produced with highest success percentage by cycocel @ 50 mgL'' + hole insertion graftingusing sponge gourd as rootstock, alar @ 10 mgL"' + one cotyledon grafting using pumpkin as rootstock, one cotyledon grafting without growth regulator using bottle gourd as rootstock. Among these grafts, sponge gourd as rootstock produced longest vine, more branches, longer crop duration, on par female flowers, sex ratio, fruits per plant and yield per plant compared to control. However, cultivation of non grafted plants recorded higher B:C ratio which necessitate further evaluation of biotic and abiotic tolerance of grafts for benefitting farming community.ThesisItem Open Access Rootstock evaluation and grafting studies in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2019) Sadanand Kumabar; KAU; Narayanankutty, CThe present investigation was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Mannuthy and Centre for Hi-Tech Horticulture and Precision Farming, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during the year 2018-2019 with the objective to evaluate ten available rootstocks comprising of Surya, Haritha, SMI, SM2, SM3, SM116, SM398, Solanum sisymbrifolium, Sokmum torvum KAUl, Solanum torvum TNAUl for resistance to bacterial wilt in both field evaluation and artificial Inoculation and to study the field performance of grafted brinjal plants on bacterial wilt resistant rootstocks. In the field trials Solanum sisymbrifolium was highly susceptible to bacterial will with 96.6% wilt incidence whereas SM398 (40% PDI), SM2 (40% PDl), SMI (23.3% PDI), Solanum torvum KAUl (16.6% PDI) and Solanum torvum TNAUl (20% PDI) were found moderately resistant to bacterial wilt. Genotypes such as Surya, Haritha, SM3 and SM1I6 found highly resistant to bacterial wilt even when spot planted with susceptible check genotype Pusa Ruby which showed 100 percent wilt incidence. The PDI in check genotype Pusa Ruby ranged from 86.67 per cent to 100 per cent. Solanum sisymbrifolium spot planted with Pusa Ruby took minimum number of days to wilt incidence (23.40 days) whereas SM398 took maximum days to will (32.3 days). Under artificial inoculation the genotype Solanum sisymbrifolium exhibited 73.33 per cent will incidence along with the susceptible check Pusa Ruby which exhibited 86.6 per cent wilt incidence and both the genotypes were classified as susceptible to bacterial wilt. All other genotypes viz,, Surya, Haritha, SM 1, SM2, SM3, SM 116, SM398, Solanum torvum KAU1 and Solanum fon'um TNAUl did not show any wilt incidence under artificial inoculation and were resistant to bacterial wilt. Solanum sisymbrifolium took more number of days to wilt (16.81 days) when compared to the susceptible check Pusa Ruby (9.77 days). The root dip method recorded highest PDI in both susceptible genotype Solanum sisymbrifolium (86.67%) and the susceptible check Pusa Ruby (100%) when compared to media drenching and stem injection methods and the number of days to wilt incidence was also the lowest in root dip method (11.70 days) followed by stem inoculation (12.25 days) and media drenching (26.50 days). Significant differences were observed with respect to plant height, plant spread, stem girth, number of primary branches, fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, average fruit weight, yield per plant, total phenolic, dry matter, number of wilted plants, root length and root spread among ail the rootstocks used when compared to non-grafted control and all the grafted plants produced significantly better performance for all the above parameters irrespective of the rootstocks used. Maximum yield per plant (6.69 kg), number of fruits per plant (94.80), plant spread, stem girth, number of primary branches, fruit lengtli (22.22 cm), root length (63.65 cm) and root spread (87.05 cm) were recorded when cullivar Haritha was used as a rootstock. The highest plant height, fruit girth (10.97 cm) and average fruit weight (78.00 g) were recorded on SMI 16 rootstock. Highest dry matter content was found in fruits of grafted plants of SM398 (11.12%) and the total phenolic content was the highest when SM3 (113.30 mg/l OOg) was used as rootstock. Maximum numbers of wilted plants were observed in non-grafted control. The perfonnance of non-grafted control plants was poor for all the above characters studied. Grafting did not significantly influence earliness, duration of the crop or number of harvests or total soluble solids content of fruits in brinjal. It had no significant effect on incidence of other pests on the crop except for bacterial wilt. From above studies it could be summarised that spot planting could be used as an effective tool for screening brinjal genotypes against bacterial wilt. Grafting technology could be successfully utilised in brinjal not only for bacterial wilt resistance but also for obtaining higher productivity. Haritha was found to be best rootstock for grafting in brinjal as it recorded significantly higher yield per plant, number of fruits per plant, plant spread, stem girth, number of primary branches, fruit length, root length and root spread followed by SMI 16 rootstock which recorded the highest plant height, fruit girth and average fruit weight.
