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Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur
The history of agricultural education in Kerala can be traced back to the year 1896 when a scheme was evolved in the erstwhile Travancore State to train a few young men in scientific agriculture at the Demonstration Farm, Karamana, Thiruvananthapuram, presently, the Cropping Systems Research Centre under Kerala Agricultural University. Agriculture was introduced as an optional subject in the middle school classes in the State in 1922 when an Agricultural Middle School was started at Aluva, Ernakulam District. The popularity and usefulness of this school led to the starting of similar institutions at Kottarakkara and Konni in 1928 and 1931 respectively.
Agriculture was later introduced as an optional subject for Intermediate Course in 1953. In 1955, the erstwhile Government of Travancore-Cochin started the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Mannuthy, Thrissur for imparting higher education in agricultural and veterinary sciences, respectively. These institutions were brought under the direct administrative control of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Animal Husbandry, respectively. With the formation of Kerala State in 1956, these two colleges were affiliated to the University of Kerala. The post-graduate programmes leading to M.Sc. (Ag), M.V.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees were started in 1961, 1962 and 1965 respectively.
On the recommendation of the Second National Education Commission (1964-66) headed by Dr. D.S. Kothari, the then Chairman of the University Grants Commission, one Agricultural University in each State was established. The State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) were established in India as an integral part of the National Agricultural Research System to give the much needed impetus to Agriculture Education and Research in the Country. As a result the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) was established on 24th February 1971 by virtue of the Act 33 of 1971 and started functioning on 1st February 1972. The Kerala Agricultural University is the 15th in the series of the SAUs.
In accordance with the provisions of KAU Act of 1971, the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, were brought under the Kerala Agricultural University. In addition, twenty one agricultural and animal husbandry research stations were also transferred to the KAU for taking up research and extension programmes on various crops, animals, birds, etc.
During 2011, Kerala Agricultural University was trifurcated into Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and Kerala Agricultural University (KAU).
Now the University has seven colleges (four Agriculture, one Agricultural Engineering, one Forestry, one Co-operation Banking & Management), six RARSs, seven KVKs, 15 Research Stations and 16 Research and Extension Units under the faculties of Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering and Forestry. In addition, one Academy on Climate Change Adaptation and one Institute of Agricultural Technology offering M.Sc. (Integrated) Climate Change Adaptation and Diploma in Agricultural Sciences respectively are also functioning in Kerala Agricultural University.
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ThesisItem Open Access Halogenation of rice seeds to prolong storability(Department of seed science and technology, College of horticulture,Vellanikkara, 2015) Suganya, S; Rose Mary FranciesAn experiment on the effect of halogens and packing materials on paddy seeds was undertaken at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikkara, Thrissur with seeds of rice variety Jyothi pertaining to rabi 2013-14, summer 2013-14 and kharif 2014. The experiment aimed to standardize the optimum dose and mode of application of halogens and elucidate the impact of seed treatment with halogen and the packing material on seed quality and longevity. The experiment was conducted as completely randomized design involving two factors (packing material and halogenation dose) with two replications. Treatments comprised of a combination of a packing material either jute bag (P1) or polyethylene bag of 400G (P2) with seed halogenation (T) at different doses. Observations recorded on germination, seedling shoot and root length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index I and II, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, seed moisture content and seed infection were statistically analyzed and results interpreted. Seed quality and longevity during storage were found to be significantly influenced by packing material, dose of halogen and the interaction effects of packing material and dose of halogen throughout the storage period. Irrespective of halogenation, seeds of all the three seasons stored in polyethylene bags (400G) were significantly superior to that in jute bags with respect to germination and other seed quality parameters like seedling length, seedling dry weight, seedling vigour index I and II, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, seed moisture content and infection by seed microflora at the end of storage. Seeds of rabi and summer 2013-14 stored in polyethylene bags (400G) retained viability above minimum seed certification standards (MSCS) (80%) for eleven and eight months compared to eight and four months in case of jute bags respectively. Hence, results pointed out that there was definite advantage in storing seeds in polyethylene bags (400G) over storing them in jute bags both with respect to seed qualities and prolonging seed longevity. Seeds halogenated with calcium oxychloride (CaOCl2) in combination with carrier calcium carbonate (CaCO3) @ 3g each/kg of seed (T5) recorded significantly high germination, seedling shoot length, seedling dry weight and seedling vigour index I and II. It also recorded the least electrical conductivity, moisture content and seed infection at the end of storage irrespective of the packing material and season of seed production. In addition, T5 prolonged seed viability above MSCS for a period of twelve and nine months compared to nine and six months in untreated seeds (T1) in rabi and summer 2013-14 respectively. Results thus proved the superiority of halogenation at T5 (CaOCl2+CaCO3@ 3g each/kg seed) in retaining seed qualities and prolonging seed longevity during storage. T3 (CaOCl2 @ 6 g/kg seed) that exhibited lower seed deterioration next to T5 retained viability above 80 per cent for nine and seven months in rabi and summer 2013-14 respectively, is adjudged the next best halogenation dose. The interactive effect of packing material and seed halogenation indicated that, seed treated with CaOCl2 through carrier CaCO3 @ 3g each /kg of seed (T5) and stored in polyethylene bags of 400G (P2) i.e., treatment combination P2T5, exhibited significantly higher seed qualities at the end of storage in all three seasons. P2T5 had also retained viability above MSCS for longer period both in rabi and summer 2013-14 (fourteen and ten months respectively) compared to untreated seeds packed in jute bag (P1T1) (eight months and six months respectively). Among the various combinations, P1T5 (CaOCl2+CaCO3 @ 3g each/kg seed and packing in jute bag) was found consistent in all three seasons with respect to maintain seed quality parameters at the end of storage. Seeds in P1T5 had retained viability above MSCS for eleven and eight months in rabi and summer 2013-14 respectively, indicating its advantage over untreated seeds packed in jute bag (P1T1). Hence, halogenation with calcium oxychloride through carrier calcium carbonate (T5) and packing in jute bags is also a viable option for prolonging seed longevity. Considering the above, it can be concluded that, to maintain higher seed quality and prolonging viability during storage, it is best advisable to store rice seeds in moisture vapour proof polyethylene bags (400G) at ten per cent moisture after treating with halogen calcium oxychloride along with carrier calcium carbonate @ 3g each/ kg of seed i.e., P2T5 followed by P1T5 (CaOCl2+CaCO3 @ 3g each/kg seed and packing in jute bag).ThesisItem Open Access Initial viability and crop yields in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp)(Division of Seed Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, 1980) Mohan Kumar, B; KAU; Agarawal, P KAn investigation was conducted at the Division of Seed Technology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi to study the effect of loss of viability on growth and yield of cowpea and to find out whether the deleterious effects due to loss of viability could be compensated by increasing the plant population per unit area. The treatments comprised of four levels of germinations (72, 63, 48 and 39 per cent) and two plant populations (20 and 40 plants/m2). The field experiment was laid out in a 4 x 2 factorial randomized block design with three replications. The crop was sown on 22nd of March, 1980 and harvested on 19th of July, 1980. The findings are summarized below: 1. In order to create variability in germination percentage accelerated ageing treatment was given. During accelerated ageing, seed deterioration was maximum between 2nd and 3rd week after treatment. There was no deterioration during the first week. The length of root, shoot and their dry weight did not vary much until 3rd week after treatment. However, there was a drastic reduction in these attributes during the 4th week. 2. The rate as well as total field emergence were inversely related to the seed deterioration. 3. Leaf area decreased with seed deterioration at the final phase of crop growth. Similarly the low population density was superior to the high one. 4. Regarding leaf dry weight, the control and the low population density were significantly superior to other treatments at the time of harvest. 5. Germination levels 72 and 63 per cent had significantly more stem dry weight per plant. Similarly the low population density registered higher dry matter accumulation in the stem. 6. The germination levels exerted no significant influence on plant height except at the final stage when control recorded the highest value. The effect of planting densities on height was also not markedly evident at any of the stages. 7. The low population density had invariably higher number of branches per plant at various stages of observation. Regarding the effect of germination levels, they were not statistically different. 8. Appearance of first flower was significantly earlier in the plants from deteriorated seed lots. The population density had no marked bearing on this aspect. 9. Total dry matter yield was highest in the plants from the maximum deteriorated seed lot during the early stage. However, at later stages the control plants accumulated maximum dry matter which was on par with the 63 per cent germination level. 10. Relative growth rate was least in the maximum deteriorated seeds in the beginning. But control registered the least value during the period between 45 and 103 days after sowing. The 63 per cent and 48 per cent germination levels were having significantly higher values at this stage. 11. The various yield components were not significantly influenced by the germination levels. However, population density had a marked bearing on the pod dry weight per plant and the dry weight of pod covers. 12. The low population density tended to increase the leaf nitrogen content at the final stage. However, the interaction effects were significant on the 45th day after sowing, with maximum leaf nitrogen content in the low population- 63 per cent germination combination. 13. With regard to stem nitrogen content, the control and 63 per cent germination level were significantly superior to other deteriorated lots at the final phase of crop growth. Similarly the plants of high density planting had remarkably more stem nitrogen than the low density. 14. Neither the germination level nor the population density did significantly influence grain nitrogen content. 15. Nitrogen uptake followed the same trend as that of total dry matter yield except in the case of total nitrogen uptake per hectare with reference to the population density. From this study, therefore, we may conclude that the four germination levels can be grouped into two distinct categories considering the loss of viability- yield relationships in cowpea. The control and the 63 per cent constitutes the first group, where no deleterious effects of seed deterioration was noted. The 48 and 39 per cent germination levels forms the second group where a significant reduction in terms of various growth attributes and dry matter yield was observed. This would, then, mean that the use of old seeds would not have a significant effect on yield, provided that viability is around 60 per cent and appropriate compensatory seed rates are used to allow for that fraction of seed population which is non- viable.ThesisItem Open Access Seed quality enhancement in okra and oriental pickling melon with film coat(Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Reshma, P K; KAU; Dijee BastianAn experiment on ‘Seed quality enhancement in okra and oriental pickling melon with film coat’’ was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during 2016-18 to standardise the optimum dose and effect of polymer coating on okra and oriental pickling melon seeds and to evaluate the storage potential of polymer coated seeds under ambient storage condition Seeds of okra variety, Arka Anamika and oriental pickling melon variety Mudicode local were used in this study. Polykote and Hitron were the polymers used. Seeds were treated with polymers either alone or in combination with plant protection chemicals. Performance of treated seeds was compared with untreated control. The polymer treatments comprised of both polymers at two doses Viz. Polykote @ 5 ml per kg of seed, Polykote @ 10 ml per kg of seed, Hitron @ 5 ml per kg of seed and Hitron @ 10 ml per kg of seed. A combination of plant protection chemicals such as fungicides, carbendazim-mancozeb (2g per kg of seed), insecticide- bifenthrin (0.1%) and biocontrol agent – Trichoderma viride (4g) were used. Polymer coated seeds were packed in 700 G polyethylene bag and stored under ambient conditions. Seed quality parameters were recorded at bimonthly intervals for a period of sixteen months. With the advancement of storage period, germination declined irrespective of the treatments in both the seeds. Throughout the storage period, performance of treated seeds was found to be superior over control. In okra, at the end of the storage period of sixteen month , higher germination per cent (60.67 %) was recorded in seeds treated with Polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) followed by Hitron (5ml) + carbendazim-mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) (54.00%), while lower values were recorded in untreated control (28.67%). All the treatments except untreated control maintained MSCS (Minimum Seed Certification Standards) of 65 per cent germination up to ten months of storage. The seeds treated with Polykote (5ml) + carbendazim-mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) per kg seed, Polykote (10ml/kg seed), Polykote (10ml) + carbendazim-mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) per kg seed, Hitron (5ml/kg seed), Hitron (10ml) + carbendazim-mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) per kg seed retained germination per cent above MSCS up to twelve months of storage whereas, the best treatment Polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) maintained MSCS up to fourteen months of storage. Similarly in the case of quality parameters like vigour indices and dehydrogenase activity, seed treatment with polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) found to be superior. In case of electrical conductivity of seed leachate a higher value was observed in untreated control while the least was recorded in seed treatment with polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) per kg of seed. In OP melon, the effect of polymer film coating on seed quality parameters followed the same trend as that of okra. Higher per cent of germination noticed in seed treated with polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%). These treatments retained germination per cent above MSCS till fourteenth month. Electrical conductivity of seed leachate was least in seeds treated with polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) per kg of seed compared to untreated control. Microflora infection was found to be lower in polymer treated seeds when compared to control in both the crops. The major microorganisms observed were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus. The results indicated that seed treatment with polymers was highly effective for enhancing the storage life of okra and OP melon. The polymers along with plant protection chemicals help to retain viability and storability of seeds. Among the treatments, polykote (10ml) +carbendazim- mancozeb (2g) + bifenthrin (0.1%) showed best results which may be recommended for pre storage seed treatment. Seed treatment with polymers therefore provides a cheaper and safe method to enhance seed viability and seedling performance under ambient storage condition.ThesisItem Open Access Impact of foliar application of nutrients and growth promoters on seed yield and quality of okra(Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Nishidha, C T; KAU; Rose Mary, FranciesExperiments to assess the impact of foliar application of secondary nutrients, micronutrients growth promoters on growth, fruit and seed yield of okra variety Arka Anamika, and the influence of storage environment on quality and longevity of the seed thus produced were conducted at College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, during 2016-2018. The field experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 18 treatments. The dosage of micronutrients and secondary nutrients to be applied as foliar nutrition in the experimental plot were fixed based on the soil test data. As the soil of the experimental plot was found to be deficient in secondary nutrients viz., magnesium and sulphur as well as in micronutrients; zinc and boron, the treatments were designed to augment the required secondary and nutrients through foliar application. Foliar application of 0.75% ZnO, 1% MgO, 0.2% Pseudomonas Fluorescens (Pf), 0.2% Salicylic acid (SA), 0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix (SVM), 0.1% H3BO3, 0.5% Sulphur (s), 0.75%ZnSO4 and water (control:C), was done either once at 25 days after sowing (T1: 0.75%ZnO-1, T3:1% MgO-1, T5:0.2% pf-I, T7:0.2%SA-I, I,T9:0.5% SVM-I,T11:0.1%H3BO3-I, T13:0.5% 0.5%S-I, T 158:0.75% ZnSO-I and T 17:C-I) or twice at 25 DAS and 45 DAS (T2:0.75% ZnO-II, T4:1% MgO-II, T6:0.2%PF-II, T8:0.2%SA=II, T10:0.5% SVM-II,T12 :0.1%H3BO3II,T14:0.5%SII,T16:0.75%ZnSO4-II and T18:C-II,during the cropping period and observation on growth and yield parameters were recorded at appropriate stages. Results revealed the existence of significant differences in most vegetative and reproductive traits in okra, following foliar application of various nutrients and growth promoters. However, no significant difference was observed with respect to plant height at 30 days after sowing (DAS) and 60 DAS, days to flowering pollen viability (%), seeds per pod, shrivelled seeds per pod (%) and seed yield per pod (g). Considering the impact of various nutrients and growth regulators, it may be concluded that foliar application of micronutreint mixture (0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix) or 0.75% ZnSOS4 or 0.1% H3BO3 twice during the crop growth was advantageous. Foliar application of micronutrient mixture (0.5% Sampoorana KAU vegetable multimix) twice, exerted high positive influence on the vegetative growth and reproductive traits in okra seed crop except per cent of hard seeds and test weight. The treatment had registered the highest fruits per plant and the least per cent of flower shedding. Two-time foliar application of 0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix was more advantageous than its one-time application. Although high in saleable seed (%) as well as test weight and low in hard seed per cent, the plant stature at both 45 DAS and 75 Das, chlorophyll content in leaves, number of branches and fruits per plant, fruit length and seed density were comparatively low in one-time application of 0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix. The flower shedding was also application of comparatively high in one time application of vegetable multimix. One- Time application of 0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix was found next best to two-time application of 0.5% Smpoorna KAU vegetable multimix or 0.75% ZnSO4 and 0.1% H3BO3. Foliar application of 0.75% ZnSO4 twice and 0.1% H3BO3 twice were comparable to each other. The treatments were on par with respect to plant height at 75 DAS, chlorophyll content in the leaf, flower shedding (%), number of fruits per plant, fruit lengh, per cent hard seeds and saleable seeds, test weight of seed and seed density. Application of 0.75% ZnSO4 twice exhibited a highly beneficial effect on reproductive traits of seed crop. The highest saleable seed per cent was registered in this treatment. Low percent of flower shedding and hard seeds as well as high number of fruits per plant and fruit length were observed in this treatment. In spite of the low plant stature at both 45 and 75 DAS and chlorophyll content, all the reproductive traits viz., number of fruits per plant, fruit length, saleable seed per pod (%)test weight and seed density in treatment 0.1% H3BO3twice i.e., at 25 DAs and 45 DAS was of high magnitude. In addtiion, the treatment had regidstered lower percent of flower shedding and hard seed. High test weight coupled with high seed density indicates good grain filling. Administering plant growth promoting rhizobacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens twice via foliar sprays can also be recommended to reduce per cent of hard seeds and obtain high saleable seed per pod (%). However, it did not improve the plant stature at early stages (45 DAS) and number of branches, chlorophyll content in leaves and seed test weight or lower the occurrence of hard seeds per pod (%). Seed storge experiments were laid out following a Completely Randomized Desigh (CRD) with eighteen treatments (T1 to T18) and three replications (R1 to R 3) under three storage conditions. The study was done using the seeds extracted from the pods harvested at physiological maturity from each of the 18 treatments in Experiment I. Seeds were stored under three storage conditions viz., shelled seeds under refrigerated storage (S1), shelled seeds under ambient storage (S2) and unshelled pods under ambient storage (S3). The foliar application of nutrients and growth promoters in okra significantly influenced the seed the elemental composition of seeds except for iron and sulphur content. It was observed that the foliar application of boron, zinc, and magnesium increased the content of respective elements in the seed. Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix (0.5%) was beneficial in increasing the boron, manganese, copper calcium and magnesium content of seed. Next to the micronutrient mixture, it was also evident that the content of boron, manganese magnesium and calcium content of seed was enhanced through spray of salicylic acid. Before storage, the foliar application of nutrients and growth promoters was found to exert a significant influence on the seed quality indices (Germination per cent, seedling vigour index I and seedling vigour index II). Results of storage studies indicated that, as storage period increased the seed quality decreased irrespective of the storage environment. The rate of seed deterioration was found to be maximum when the seeds were stored in unshelled pods. Hence, it can be summarized that compared to storing seeds with i unshelled pods, ambient storage and cold storage conditions are beneficial in prolonging longevity and maintaining higher seed quality parameters during storage. Although, the results point out that foliar application 0.5% Sampoorna KAU vegetable multimix twice positively influenced seed quality during storage, a conclusive evidence as to the best foliar treatment that positively impacts seed quality parameters can be drawn only from the study of seed quality parameters over prolonged storage (>6 Months). Further evaluation of seed quality under ambient and refrigerated storage environment over a longer storage period would also help delineate the impact of these treatments as well as environment on seed longevity and quality during prolonged storage.ThesisItem Open Access Impact of pre-storage seed invigoration in ash gourd (benincasa hispida (thunb.) cogn.)(Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Athmaja, S; KAU; Rose Mary, FranciesA study to elucidate the effect of seed invigoration on viability and quality of seeds in ash gourd variety KAU Local was conducted at College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, during 2016-2018. The impact of seed invigoration on seed viability and seed quality parameters under ambient (S1) and refrigerated storage (S2) was assessed following a completely randomized design with seven invigoration treatments (I1 to I7) and three replications. Seeds were separately invigorated using CaCl2 (50 m M) for 12h (I1), CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24h (I2), kinetin (10 ppm) for 12h (I3), kinetin (10 ppm) for 24h (I4), KH2PO4 (10-1 M) for 24h (I5), Pseudomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1) for 12h (I6). Untreated seeds (I7) served as control. Both treated and untreated seeds were dried to < 8 per cent moisture content and packed in polythene bags (700 gauge). The seed quality parameters were recorded immediately after treatment and subsequently at monthly intervals for a period of 10 months, while, germination of stored seeds was assessed up to 14 months after storage (MAS). At bimonthly intervals, quantification of lipid peroxidation, sugar and amino acids leached out from the seeds and the seed micro flora infection was also done. Seed quality during storage and seed longevity were found to be significantly influenced by storage environment, invigoration treatment and their interaction throughout the storage period. The results revealed that germination and other seed quality parameters such as germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, vigour indices I and II, in both treated and untreated seeds decreased progressively over the storage period. However, there was an increase in mean time to germination, time taken for 50 per cent germination, allometric index, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, seed infection per cent, leachate of sugar, amino acid and lipid peroxidation, towards the end of storage period. Germination of seeds stored under the refrigerated storage was lower than that under ambient storage in the initial storage period (upto 3 MAS). Henceforth, refrigerated seeds exhibited significant superior germination than that under ambient storage till the end of storage period (14 MAS). Germination of seeds under refrigeration was retained above 60 per cent (the minimum seed certification standards required for ash gourd) for 13 MAS compared to 5 MAS in ambient stored seeds. The study thus revealed that irrespective of seed invigoration treatments, to prolong seed longevity and maintain seed quality, storing seeds under refrigeration is advantageous over ambient storage. Irrespective of storage environment, priming induced early germination. The seed quality parameters of the invigorated seeds before storage were found to be superior to untreated seeds. The invigorated seeds had also exhibited a germination per cent above 80 at 1 MAS, while, the germination in untreated control (I7) during the corresponding period was below the MSCS. Seeds invigoration with calcium chloride for 12h (I1) and 24h (I2) recorded significantly high germination and other seed quality parameters during the storage period of ten months. Owing to the significant superiority of seeds invigorated with I1 (CaCl2 50mM 12h) and I2 (CaCl2 50mM 24h) with respect to germination in the initial period of storage (up to 4 MAS), superior seed qualities during storage as well as retention of germination above MSCS for 8 MAS, seed invigoration with CaCl2 50mM before storage can be advocated to help retain seed qualities and prolonging seed longevity during storage. The interaction between storage condition and invigoration treatment on germination and other seed indices pointed out that it was most advantageous to treat seeds with CaCl2 50mM for 12h (I1) before storing under ambient conditions. If provision for refrigerated storage is available, bio-priming with Pf 1x10-6 cfu.ml-1 for 12h (S2I6) or priming with CaCl2 50mM for 24h (I2), kinetin 10 ppm for 12h (I3) or kinetin 10 ppm for 24h (I4) or KH2PO4 10-1 M for 24h (I5) would be most advantageous. Analysis of the impact of pre-storage seed invigoration treatment on seed longevity subsequent to retrieval of seeds from refrigerated storage revealed that, irrespective of the storage period under refrigeration, the seeds were found to retain viability above MSCS for a minimum period of one month after retrieval from refrigerated storage. Viability retention of invigorated and untreated seeds during further periods of thawing was unpredictable. It was also evident that none of the treatments could help retain seed viability above MSCS for five months after retrieval from refrigeration. Results also revealed that seed invigoration with CaCl2 50mM 12h (I1) is advantageous, if one or two months of ambient storage after retrieval from cold storage is unavoidable. Hence, considering the impact of storage environment, invigoration treatment and their interaction on seed longevity and quality, as well as their influence on seed longevity during thawing, it can be summarised that seed invigoration with CaCl2 50mM for 12h (I1) or 24h (I2) would be beneficial.ThesisItem Open Access Optimizing planting time, seed extraction and seed storage in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo var. conomon Mak.)(Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2017) Nagendra, M S; KAU; Dijee BastianAn experiment titled ‘Optimizing planting time, seed extraction and seed storage in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo var. conomon Mak.)’, was conducted in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, using variety ‘Saubhagya’ with the objective to ascertain the optimum time of sowing to maximize seed yield, and to standardize the seed extraction method and seed storage conditions. Sowing was taken up at monthly intervals starting from August’16 up to February’17 to ascertain the optimum time of sowing. Results indicated that crops raised in the months of August and September recorded higher seed yield and yield related parameters like fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, fruit yield per vine, number of seeds per fruit, fresh weight and dry weight of seeds per fruit. Early emergence of female flower was observed in crops sown in the months of December, January and February. Vivipary was also seen in December (6.54 %), January (5.34 %) and February (4.70 %) months of sowing. The study suggests August sowing as the ideal time for seed production as yield attributes like fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, fruit yield per vine, number of seeds per fruit, fresh weight and dry weight of seeds per fruit were high. Seed extraction influences the seed quality and its storability. A crop was raised in June 2016 and fruits harvested from the crop was used for extraction. Various methods of seed extraction were employed viz., hand extraction method, fermentation and acid (HCl) extraction method (various concentration and exposure time). Examination of quality parameters of the freshly extracted seeds revealed that extraction with conc. HCl 25 ml/ 1.5 litre of water for 30 minutes recorded the highest germination per cent, vigour indices and other quality parameters. Acid seed extraction may be recommended when immediate sowing is required. The extracted seeds were dried to less than 8 per cent moisture and packed in polyethylene covers of 700G and stored under cold and ambient conditions for a period of eight months. Observations on seed quality parameters were recorded at monthly intervals. Irrespective of the extraction methods followed, a higher germination and seedling vigour coupled with a significant reduction in mean germination time, time taken for 50 per cent germination and electrical conductivity of seed leachates was observed in seeds stored under cold storage compared to seeds stored under ambient conditions. Seed extraction through fermentation method recorded the highest germination, shoot length, root length and seedling vigour indices under both storage conditions followed by hand extraction method. Under ambient conditions, seeds extracted from fermentation method sustained germination above Indian minimum seed certification standards (MSCS) which is 60% for a period of four months. Under cold storage, seeds extracted by fermentation method maintained MSCS till the end of the storage period (8 MAS) while in other treatments it was maintained only for 5 MAS. Over the storage period the value of electrical conductivity of seed leachates, mean germination time and time taken for 50 per cent germination was least in fermentation method indicating early emergence and better field stand. Freshly extracted seeds were devoid of seed microflora infection. However, at the end of the storage period microflora infection was highest in hand extraction and lowest in acid treatments. The organisms observed were Aspergillus niger and A. flavus From the study it can be concluded that seed storage under cold conditions is beneficial for prolonging the seed longevity. Fermentation and hand extraction of seeds is advisable to retain the seed quality and prolong seed viability during storage.ThesisItem Open Access Effect of seed protectants against pulse beetle on viability, vigour and health of cowpea seeds(Department of Seed Science and Technology,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Libi, Antony A; KAU; Rose, Mary FranciesExperiments to assess the effectiveness of seed protectants against cowpea pulse beetle (Callosobruchus spp.)and their impact on seed quality and seedling vigour of selected cowpea varieties were conducted at College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during 2014-2016. Separate experiments were conducted for both Lola and Kanakamony varieties following a completely randomized design with 13 treatments and three replications. Seeds were treated with seed protectants viz. neem oil, castor oil, coconut oil, sweet flag rhizome powder, neem leaf powder, paanal leaf powder, karinotchi leaf powder, neem kernel powder, diatomaceous earth, rice husk ash, Beauveria bassiana and spinosad. Untreated seeds served as control. Both treated and untreated seeds were dried to nine per cent moisture content were stored under ambient conditions for a period of 13 months. The seed quality parameters like germination, speed of germination, seedling vigour indices, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, mortality of adult pulse beetles, number of eggs laid by beetle, egg hatchability and seed infestation were recorded at monthly intervals. Seed microflora infection per cent were recorded at start and end of storage period.The results revealed that germination and other seed quality parameters in both treated and untreated seeds decreased progressively over the storage period.However, irrespective of the variety, the seed protectants significantly enhanced the viability and quality of treated seeds. The quality of treated seeds was higher than that of untreated seeds for most part of the storage period. The germination in untreated seeds was retained above 75 per cent (the minimum seed certification standards (MSCS) required for cowpea) for eight months while it was retained for nine months in all treated seeds. The rate of decrease in seed germination and quality was slower in semitrailing variety Kanakamony compared to trailing variety Lola. In both the varieties, the germination was lower in untreated seeds in comparison to the treated seeds. Germination, speed of germination, seedling growth parameters and vigour indices were invariably high in seeds treated with neem based seed protectants viz., neem kernel powder, neem leaf powder and neem oil. Among the neem based botanicals used, seed treatment with neem kernel powder maintained higher germination and seed quality parameters viz., seedling shoot length, seedling root length, seedling dry weight and seedling vigour index I and II during storage. Similarly, the electrical conductivity of seed leachate and per cent infection by seed microflora was found to be consistently low in seeds treated with neem based botanicals, vegetable oils and spinosad.The efficacy of seed protectants against pulse beetle was evaluated at monthly intervals by recording weight of infested seed, seed infestation, mortality, fecundity and egg hatchability in twenty five seeds drawn randomly from each replication. The results revealed that all the seed protectants used were effective against pulse beetle during the initial period of storage and were significantly superior to control over the period of storage.Among the seed protectants evaluated, highest mortality of adult beetles,lowest fecundity, egg hatchability and seed infestation were recorded in seeds treated with spinosad followed by oils viz., neem oil, coconut oil and castor oil as well as other neem based botanicals. Seed treated with spinosad offered protection against pulse beetle for up to seven months of storage as evident from the cent per cent mortality of adult beetles, complete suppression of egg hatchability as well as low seed infestation in both varieties. Seeds treated with neem oil, castor oil, coconut oil, neem kernel powder and neem leaf powder recorded cent per cent mortality of adult beetles for five months of storage in both varieties. No seed infestation was recorded in seeds treated with neem oil, castor oil and coconut oil for up to five months of storage while a similar protection was offered by neem leaf powder and neem kernel powder for up to four months of storage. Spinosad was found to be the most effective in controlling pulse beetle infestation throughout the storage period. Based on the impact of seed protectants on seed viability, seedling performance as well as protection against pulse beetle infestation in cowpea, seed treatment with seed protectants viz., spinosad or neem based products (neem kernel powder, neem leaf powder and neem oil) or as oils (coconut oil and castor oil) can be recommended to be most effective in enhancing seed viability (by a period of one month over control), higher seed and seedling performance and protection from pulse beetle infestation and infection by microflora in cowpea. Among the above Spinosad can be recommended as the best seed treatment for cowpea if it can ensured that the treated seeds would be used only for seed purpose. However, in case the stored pulse seeds are meant for use as food, feed and seed, treatment with coconut oil could be recommended in place of neem based products since neem based botanicals are reported to cause sterility in humans and animals.ThesisItem Open Access Halogenation for improvement of storage Life of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds(Department of Seed Science and Technology,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Navya, P; KAU; Dijee, BastianAn experiment ‘Halogenation for improvement of storage life in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds’ to standardise the optimum dose and mode of halogenation of chilli seeds and to evaluate the storage potential of halogenated seeds under ambient storage condition was conducted in Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during 2014-16.Seeds of two chilli varieties Ujwala and Anugraha were utilized for the study. Calcium oxy chloride (CaOCl2), iodine crystal (I2) and potassium iodide (KI) were the halogens used. Seeds were treated with halogens either alone or in combination with a carrier (CaCO3). Performance of treated seeds was compared to untreated control (T1). The halogen treatments comprised of each halogen at two doses viz.CaOCl2 @ 2g per kg of seeds (T2), CaOCl2 @ 4g per kg of seeds (T3), Iodine crystal @ 50mg per kg of seeds (T4), Iodine crystal @ 100mg per kg of seeds (T5), KI @ 50mg per kg of seeds (T6) and KI @100mg per kg of seeds (T7). In addition, seeds were also treated with a combination of halogen and carrier (CaCO3) in equal proportions (T8 to T13). After dry dressing the seeds with halogen or halogen carrier combination it was packed in 400G polyethylene bag and stored under ambient conditions. Seed quality parameters were recorded at monthly intervals for a period of 14 months. With the advancement of storage period, germination (%) declined irrespective of the treatments in both the varieties. Irrespective of the varieties throughout the storage period, performance of treated seeds was found to be superior over control irrespective of the varieties. In var. Ujwala, at the end of storage (14th month) high germination per cent was recorded in seeds treated with iodine crystal + CaCO3 @ 50mg each per kg of seeds followed by CaOCl2 +CaCO3 @ 4g each per kg of seeds. Seed treatment with CaOCl2 @ 2g per kg of seeds and CaOCl2@ 4g per kg of seeds were found to be the lower.Combination treatments such as iodine crystal + CaCO3 @ 50mg per kg of seeds , CaOCl2 + CaCO3 @ 2g each per kg of seeds, CaOCl2 + CaCO3 @ 4g each per kg of seeds and KI+ CaCO3 @ 50mg each per kg of seeds retained germination per cent above Minimum seed certification standards(MSCS) till 9th month of storage while in untreated seeds viability was retained only upto 5th month. Similarly in the case of parameters like vigour indices and dehydrogenase activity, seed treatment with iodine crystal + CaCO3 @50mg each per kg of seeds and CaOCl2 +CaCO3 @ 4g each per kg of seeds were found to be superior. In case of electrical conductivity of seed lechate a higher value was observed in untreated control while the least was recorded in seed treatment with Iodine crystal + CaCO3 @ 50mg each per kg of seeds. In var. Anugraha, high germination per cent was recorded in seeds treated with CaOCl2 + CaCO3 @ 2g each per kg of seeds, iodine crystal + CaCO3 @100mg each per kg seed and iodine crystal + CaCO3 @50mg each per kg of seeds. These treatments retained germination per cent above MSCS till 12th month of storage where as untreated seeds were viable only upto 9 months. Electrical conductivity of seed lechate was least in seeds treated with CaOCl2 + CaCO3 @ 2g each /kg of seeds compared to the highest value in untreated control. Microflora infection was found to be lower in halogenated seeds when compared to control in both the varieties. The major organisms observed were Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Pencillium sp. The results indicated that seed treatment with halogens was highly beneficial in enhancing the storage life of chilli. Iodine crystal with carrier @50mg each per kg of seeds and CaOCl2 with carrier @ 2g each per kg of seeds may be recommended. Seed treatment with halogens therefore provides a cheaper method to enhance seed viability and seedling performance under ambient storage condition.ThesisItem Open Access Amelioration of subsoil acidity by calcium sources in laterite soils of black peper garden(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry,College of Horticulture, Vellakikkara, 2008) Deepa K, Kuriakose; KAU; Suresh, P RSoil acidity is a major problem in humid tropical regions due to high rainfall and temperature. Hydrogen and aluminium are the major ions responsible for soil acidity. Historically, soil scientists and agronomists have addressed the problem of soil acidity and recommend amelioration by conventional liming and ploughing. Black pepper, an important and widely used spice around the globe, is cultivated widely in our state. In Kerala, this crop is grown in laterite soils, which poses many soil related stress of which soil acidity is a major one. The productivity of pepper is very low in these tracts, and lower compared to other places. High exchangeable Al and low Ca content in subsurface horizons act as barriers for the root growth of black pepper towards lower layers. The effect of conventionally surface applied liming materials like CaCO3, Ca(OH)2 will be confined to the top layer alone. While in materials like Phosphogypsum, Ca is soluble and can move to lower depths and offer possibility of ameliorating subsoil layers. Isotopic techniques are useful for a quick and reliable means of studying the movement of ameliorants through the soil and also to examine the distribution of active roots at lower depth of soil column without destroying the plant. With this background, an investigation was carried out at College Of Horticulture, Vellanikkara about the subsoil acidity amelioration in laterite soil of black pepper garden using three calcium sources- CaCO3, Ca(OH)2 and Phosphogypsum. The whole study was conducted as 5 experiments using the soil collected from the pepper garden, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara. Analysis of soil sample revealed that the exchangeable aluminium content was 69 ppm at the subsoil layer is in significantly higher concentration than the surface. On the basis of this an incubation experiment using three calcium sources, lime, slaked lime and Phosphogypsum was done and the results revealed that lime is more effective in increasing the pH while Phosphogypsum is effective for reducing the exchangeable Al in soils. In continuation to this soil column study using PVC columns filled with soil layers simulating field condition revealed that liming at 1 LR level was better for good plant growth. The effect of three sources on ameliorating subsoil acidity was evaluated by measuring the root activity of pepper plants grown in the columns by isotopic method. For this 32P was applied at a depth of 50 cm depth and the counts on leaf after a period of 8 days were taken as an indication of presence of active roots at 50 cm depth. The counts obtained from the leaf sample of black pepper revealed that count rates increased with increase in level of application of liming materials. In soil columns treated with phosphogypsum, significantly higher counts were noticed which indicates better root growth at subsurface layer of the PG treated columns. This result was confirmed by performing a leaching experiment in PVC columns using 45Ca labelled ameliorants. Radio assay and autoradiography done on this experiment also proved that, in Phosphogypsum, Ca is highly mobile compared to CaCO3 and Ca(OH)2. In order to understand the response and tolerance level of Al on pepper plants specifically on roots a solution culture experiment was also done by growing rooted plants in Hoagland solution containing different levels of Al. Solution culture experiment proved that the pepper root tolerates an Al concentration of 5 and 10 ppm and beyond this level plants die off and roots decay. How ever at 5 ppm level of Al profuse root growth was noticed. The anatomical observation of the roots were also done and some modification in the tissue orientation is noticed. On the basis of this investigation it can be concluded that 1. A sub surface zone with high concentration of exchangeable Al exists in laterite soil of the pepper garden of College of Horticulture. 2. Phosphogysum offers a potential option for ameliorating the subsoil layers and to promote root growth of black pepper to deeper soil layers. 3. Some promoting effect on black pepper root growth is noticed at 5 ppm Al, in solution culture. On the basis of these observations it is suggested that further investigations are needed on other soil types and also to validate by field trials. The acidic nature of PG at the zone of its application has to be contained by blending this material with CaCO3 or Ca(OH)2. The biochemical responses of the black pepper plant to exposure to Al, needs to be studied in detail by elaborate experiments.