ISAH Indian Journal of Arid Horticulture
The Indian Society for Arid Horticulture (ISAH) is a registered society (Registration No. 128/B/03-04) under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, since 2003-04. The journal viz., Indian Journal of Arid Horticulture was launched in 2006 and continues to expand by featuring climate-resilient crop studies, advanced irrigation techniques, and community outreach research relevant to arid and semi-arid horticulture. The ISAH publishes two issues of the ISAH Indian Journal of Arid Horticulture annually. This journal serves as a platform for disseminating original scientific research on various aspects of arid and semi-arid horticulture, including crop improvement, crop production, plant physiology, plant protection, post-harvest technology, natural resource management, and social sciences.
Artificial pollination in date palm: a review
One of the most crucial and time-consuming agronomical procedures in date cultivation is pollination, which is necessary to achieve the required yield. Fruit growth, quality, and yield are greatly impacted by date palm pollen (DPP), which is also highly influenced by pollen structure, viability, and germination capacity. In commercial farming, pollen management involves keeping pollen under refrigeration and combining it with different adjuvants to reduce the amount of pollen needed for pollination. Pollination success is further influenced by female flowers and their receptivity, therefore careful monitoring is essential to notice the timing of anthesis of the female inflorescence. Mechanized tools have made the tedious act of pollination easier, and pollination techniques have improved with time. In addition to aiding in pollination, pollen is also used as a secondary food source for a number of illnesses, including male infertility. The significance of pollen, how to utilize it and potential issues during cultivation are all covered in this article
Date palm, Pistillate Receptivity, Pollination, Pollen storage.
Copyright (c) 2026 ISAH Indian Journal of Arid Horticulture
Performance of parthenocarpic cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under polyhouse condition as influenced by organic amendments
The study revealed that various treatment combinations of biodynamic, silica and Dashparni imparted significant effects on growth, yield and quality parameters of cucumber var. Nagene grown under protected cultivation. Out of various treatments, the treatment T10 (BD 500 @75g/ha + BD 501 @2.5g/ha+ Silica @1% + Dashparni @10%) was found superior for most of parameters studied i.e. vine length at 30 DAS (1.67 m), 60 DAS (2.67 m), final harvest (3.63 m), leaf area (509.17cm²), days to first anthesis (26.07), days to first harvest (36.07), fruit weight (131.70 g), fruit volume (130.57 cc), fruit length (18.43 cm), fruit diameter (3.63 cm), number of branches (6.13), number of fruits per vine (31.43) yield per vine (4.20 kg), yield per square meter (10.07 kg) and yield per acre ( 40.30 t), whereas least performing treatment was found to be T1 i.e. control.
Cucumber, BD 500, BD 501, Dashparni, Silica, Biodynamic.
Integrated nutrient management in arid zone fruit crop production - a review
The indiscriminate use of chemical pesticides along with improper nutrient management is deleterious to the plant health, environment and human being. The quality attributes of different fruits are badly affected due to indiscriminate application of inorganic agro-chemicals which results in quality deterioration with less consumer preference and low returns to the growers. It also causes soil health deterioration and disturbs the soil microorganisms. Such practices are also common among the fruit growers. Due to these practices, the plants also become susceptible to several biotic and abiotic stresses. Therefore, it is a holistic approach based on usage of all possible sources of plant nutrients in an integrated manner is considered as alternative source to maintain soil fertility and plant nutrient supply for sustaining the desired crop productivity.
INM, fruit yield, quality, soil fertility and crop productivity.
Post-harvest management of sapota: a review
Sapota (Manilkara achras) is a tropical fruit tree that grows slowly and is evergreen. When fully mature, it is commonly eaten as a dessert fruit and is grown commercially in several countries, including India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Venezuela, and Mexico. However, because of its short shelf life and highly perishable nature, sapota has limited availability in the market. The main challenge in post harvest management of sapota is its quick ripening, which significantly reduces its shelf life. To address this issue, various techniques and technologies have been explored, such as the use of chemicals, plant growth regulators (PGRs), packaging materials, wax coating, and irradiation. This review aims to explore post-harvest solutions that can increase the availability of sapota fruits in the market for longer periods and maintain their quality throughout storage by extending their shelf life. By improving the shelf life of sapota through pre-harvest treatment and various storage applications, this study seeks to reduce post-harvest losses, increase availability, and ensure the economic sustainability of this horticultural crop.
Edible coating, packaging, post-harvest life, quality, sapota
Effect of pre-harvest spray of calcium chloride and calcium nitrate on shelf life of aonla (Phyllanthus emblica L.) cv. NA-7
The studies on shelf life of aonla was conducted at Research Farm and Laboratory Horticulture, Regional Research Station, Bawal. The selected plants were sprayed with calcium nitrate and calcium chloride @ 1.0 and 1.5 % at 10 and 20 days before harvest. After harvesting uniform fruit from different treatments were stored at room temperature. The fruit were analyzed for PLW, decay loss, TSS, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid during storage period. Lowest PLW and decay loss was recorded in the fruit sprayed with calcium nitrate @ 1.5% before 20 days of harvest. TSS increased up to 6th day of storage, while titratable acidity and ascorbic acid decreased continuously during storage. Highest TSS, lowest titratable acidity and maximum ascorbic acid content was recorded in fruit of calcium nitrate sprayed (1.5%) plants at 20 days of storage however, lowest B: C ratio was observed in control.
Calcium chloride, calcium nitrate, aonla, pre-harvest spray, shelf life.
Feasibility of banana (Musa paradisiaca L.) cultivation under Banswara district conditions of Rajasthan
An experiment was conducted at seven locations denoted as AF1 , AnF1 , AnF2 , LF1 , MF1 , SF1 and IF1 respectively to study the feasibility of banana cultivation under Banswara district conditions of Rajasthan which are very much milder than that in the desert regions in further north and north-west Rajasthan and also commensurate with the required environmental conditions for banana. For this, phenology of banana cv. Grand Naine was studied by observing the growth pattern. At harvest the vegetative parameters such as range of leaf area varied from 1.21 m2 (IF1 ) to 5.52 m2 (AnF1 ) per plant, number of functional leaves varied from 5.03 (IF1 ) to 10.03 (AnF1 ), pseudostem height from 131.18 cm (IF1 ) to 203.37 cm (AnF1 ), pseudostem girth from 39.65 cm (IF1 ) to 59.38 cm (AnF1 ). Likewise, yield and yield attributing characters were also observed such as peduncle length from 33.96 cm (IF1 ) to 45.01 cm (AnF1 ), bunch weight from 8.42 kg (IF1 ) to 17.06 kg (AnF1 ), number of hands per bunch from 6.56 (IF1 ) to 8.76 (AnF1 ), number of fruits per hand from 10.63 (IF1 ) to 14.04 (AF1 ), fruit length from 12.68 cm (IF1 ) to 16.11 cm (AF1 ), fruit diameter from 2.37 cm (IF1 ) to 3.35 cm (AnF1 ), fruit weight from 90.75 g (IF1 ) to 118.30 g (AF1 ) and estimated yield per hectare from 25.98 t (IF1 ) to 52.65 t (AnF1 ). The study of crop duration had shown values which varied from 292.74 (AnF1 ) to 307.03 days (IF1 ) for shooting, fruits attained the physiological maturity after flower emergence from 105.84 days (AnF2 ) to 114.34 days (IF1 ) and plants completed their life cycle in 398.63 days (AnF2 ) to 421.37 days (IF1 ). The parameters pertaining to quality of fruits were also studied such as TSS (ºBrix), titrable acidity (%) and organoleptic rating which ranged from 11.57 (IF1 ) to 14.48 (AnF2 ), 0.126 (AnF1 ) to 0.196 (SF1 ) and 6.95 (IF1 ) to 7.64 (AnF2 ), respectively. The results of the experiment proved that Banswara conditions are ideally suited for banana cultivation and the yield and quality of the fruits was at par with those of other locations in the country where banana cultivation is commercially practiced.
Investigating the biochemical makeup of various bael (Aegle marmelos Correa.) cultivars under semi-arid condition of Madhya Pradesh
The present study was carried out to investigate the biochemical properties of various Bael (Aegle marmelos Correa.) cultivars under Semi Arid Condition of Madhya Pradesh during 2021-22. The experiment has seven cultivars of the bael i.e. Goma Yashi, NB-5, NB-7, NB-9, NB-17, CISH-1 and CISH-2 to assess the biochemical properties of fruits and to indentify the superior. The study analyzed with Randomized Block Design. The results revealed that the different varieties of bael exhibited considerable variation for biochemical attributes. Significantly highest total soluble solid (39.22°Brix) and lowest acidity (0.30%) was recorded in the cultivar Goma Yashi. Significantly higher reducing sugar (4.95%) and total sugar (20.03%) was recorded in the cultivar NB-9 while non-reducing sugar (15.66%) was relatively higher in the cultivar CISH-1.
Bael, Aegle marmelos, Cultivar, Biochemical and Semi arid
Standardization of juice concentration for preparation of phalsa nectar and changes during storage
The experiment on preparation of phalsa nectar was conducted at Regional Research Station, Bawal. The ripe fruit of phalsa were harvested, sorted and blended with 0.5 litre water per kilogram fruit. It was heated to 70ºC and filtered to extract juice. The required amount of juice, sugar and citric acid were added to fix the concentration of juice (20.0, 22.5 and 25.0 %), TSS (15ºB) and titratable acidity (0.3%). After preparation of nectar, it was pasteurized and stored for 90 days to study the changes during storage. The TSS of the nectar increased up to 30 days of storage later on it decreased significantly. Titratable acidity and ascorbic acid content in nectar decreased with increase in storage period. However, sensory rating increased up to 60 days of storage and thereafter it was at par with 60 days of storage. Ascorbic acid content increased with increase in juice concentrations in nectar. Ascorbic acid content in all the concentrations of juice decreased with the increase in storage period. However, sensory rating decreased at 25% juice concentrations in the nectar. Overall, the phalsa nectar was rated as “moderately liked” or better by consumers and remained acceptable for up to 90 days of storage.
Titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, nectar, phalsa, storage, TSS.
Standardization of pit size and organic filling mixture for raising tissue cultured date palm in hot arid region of western Rajasthan
The study aims to provide comprehensive guidelines for optimizing pit size and the composition of filling mixtures, thereby fostering the growth, root development and overall health of tissue cultured Barhee date palm cultivars. The experiment was undertaken in 2019- 2021 at the ICAR-Central Institute for Arid Horticulture research farm located in Bikaner, Rajasthan, India. Fully hardened tissue-cultured saplings of the Barhee cultivar of date palm were planted with a spacing of 5 x 5 m in the month of July. Different planting pit sizes (1.0 m x 1.0 m x 1.0 m, 0.75 m x 0.75 m x 0.75 m, and 0.50 m x 0.50 m x 0.50 m) and filling mixtures of field soil, clay and FYM (1.0: 1.0:1.0, 2.0:0.5:0.5, 0.5:2.0:0.5 and 0.5:0.5:2.0) were used as treatment combinations for evaluating the growth of plants. The results indicated that tissue-cultured plants of the Barhee cultivar raised in a pit size of 1 m3 with a filling mixture of field soil, clay, and FYM in the ratio of 0.5:0.5:2.0 performed better.
Thar Mahima: an improved cultivar of muskmelon identified for arid region
The ‘Thar Mahima’ cultivar of muskmelon along with nine genotypes including checks was evaluated at ICAR-CIAH, Bikaner for 3 consecutive summer years (2016, 2017 and 2018) replicated thrice. The experiments were conducted following the recommended package of practices for muskmelon cultivation. From the results, it is evident that ‘Thar Mahima’ cultivar showed promising performance with respect to first fruit picking (75-80 DAS), high TSS (11.58-11.80%), fruits weighing 780-900 g with 2.8-3.2 cm thick flesh having salmon orange colour, 0.30 0.48 cm thick rind and small seed cavity (2.8-3.2 cm). It produced 4-5 fruits per plant which were round and attractive with netted surface having sutures.
Impact of systematic improvement in jamun (Syzygium cuminii Skeels) cultivars on yield and quality of fruits
Jamun (Syzygium cumini) is a promising fruit crop for cultivation in central Gujarat due to its high adaptability to diverse environmental conditions and appreciable fruit yield. The genetic diversity and climate factors can influence tree growth, yield and quality attributes of jamun. This study aimed to assess the effects of genotype and year effect on the performance of four cultivars of jamun under rainfed conditions in central Gujarat (India). Experiments were carried out during 2020–2021 and 2021–2022. The experimental design was a randomized block design with three replications. Results revealed that the tree growth, fruit yield and fruit quality parameters were significantly affected by genotype while the year had a significant effect on plant growth characters only. In general, CISHJ-37 recorded the higher tree height, spread and stem girth over the years in comparison to other cultivars. However, fruit weight and pulp content were found stable over the years as not significantly affected by the year’s effect. Goma Priyanka and CISHJ-37 recorded the higher fruit and pulp weight while higher pulp (%) was recorded in CISHJ-42 during both the years. However, Goma Priyanka recorded significantly higher yield/tree during both the years followed by CISHJ-37 while least was observed in CISHJ-42. Similarly, higher TSS and acidity were recorded in Goma Priyanka and CISHJ-37 compared to Konkan Bahadoli. The “genotype” factor significantly affected fruit yield and quality attributes. The results indicate that, under rainfed conditions, high yielding improved cultivars like Goma Priyanka and CISHJ-37 can be profitable in central Gujarat.
Antifungal susceptibility and characterization of Alternaria alternata causing leaf spot disease on Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. in India
Leaf spot is destructive disease of Aloe vera and the disease incidence during 2021-22 was varying 50-100%. The symptoms initially appeared as minute circular, water-soaked lesions on the adaxial surface of leaves, which later developed into depressed dark brown to black necrotic spots. The associated pathogen was isolated in pure culture on PDA exhibited rapid growth, initially light grey to olive green, which gradually turned dark brown to black with abundant sporulation. The colony surface typically showed concentric zonation, while the reverse side of the plate appears dark brown to black pigmentation. Further, ITS region was sequenced, and based on morphological and molecular sequences the pathogen was identified as Alternaria alternata. The pathogen found highly sensitive to the fungicides Difenoconazole under In-vitro conditions, and was found to be the most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth of the test pathogen Alternaria alternata.
Leaf spot, muriform conidia, sequencing, Alternaria, fungicides, In-vitro
Economic status of agriculture labour: A case study of Rajasthan
The study was conducted to examine the socio-economic status of agricultural labours, analyze wage and employment patterns, assess income and expenditure patterns, and investigate gender discrimination among agricultural labour in Rajasthan. The collected data revealed that the socio-economic status of agricultural labour was below the average compared to workers in other sectors. The highest level of employment was generated through crop harvesting activities. Annual employment in agriculture averaged 214 days. The average wage rate was ₹ 332.64 in the agricultural sector and ₹ 406.73 in the non-agricultural sector. The total annual family income and total family expenditure were ₹ 194,957 and ₹ 157,857, respectively.
Socio-economic, agricultural labour, employment
Compatibility evaluation of Trichoderma species with plant extracts under In-vitro conditions
The present study evaluated the compatibility of botanical insecticides with three Trichoderma species, T. hamatum, T. harzianum and T. asperellum to assess their suitability for integrated disease management. Seven botanicals marigold, karanj, lantana, parthenium, datura, periwinkle and neem were tested at 5% and 10% concentrations. All botanicals exhibited high compatibility with T. hamatum and T. asperellum, with mycelial growth ranging from 64.17 mm to 88.50 mm and growth inhibition below 30%. For T. harzianum, most botanicals at 5% concentration were compatible, while karanj, datura, neem and lantana at 10% showed moderate compatibility, with growth inhibition ranging from 33.15% to 44.26%. These findings suggest that botanical insecticides, particularly at lower concentrations, can be safely integrated with Trichoderma spp. without compromising their growth, offering a promising approach for sustainable crop protection.
Trichoderma, plant extract, compatibility, mycelial growth
Survey on the prevalence of fungal diseases and it’s impact on the cultivation of fig (Ficus carica L.) in Purandar region of Maharashtra
The study evaluated the frequency of fungal infections in fig and their economic implications across 100 orchards in the Purandar region, Maharashtra. Rust-related pathogens (Cerotelium fici or Phakopsora sp.) were the most common disease, appearing in 75% of assessed farms, with 25% reporting concomitant infections such as leaf blight and mite infestations. Economic analysis indicated that 50% of farms suffered substantial income loss, with an average market disruption score of 3.25 on a 5-point scale. According to regression analysis, yield was more strongly predicted by farm size (β = 2.517) than by years of expertise (β = 0.228). The research underscores the pressing necessity for rust-resistant cultivars, comprehensive disease management, and focused extension initiatives to guarantee the enduring viability of fig farming in the Purandar region.
Ficus carica, Purandar, disease survey, fungal diseases, economic impact
Jodhpur Jeera-1: High seed yielding variety of cumin for Rajasthan
Jodhpur Jeera-1 (MCU-105) is a newly developed high-yielding cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) variety developed through pure line selection from a local germplasm collection (GP-205) at Dr. B.R. Choudhary Agricultural Research Station, Mandor, Agriculture University Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The variety was evaluated under the AICRP on Spices at five locations across Rajasthan and Gujarat for three consecutive years (2021-22 to 2023-24). In multi-location coordinated trials, Jodhpur Jeera-1 recorded a weighted mean seed yield of 566 kg/ ha, registering a 22.8% yield advantage over the national check variety GC-4 (469 kg/ ha). The variety possesses a superior essential oil content of 4.34%, which is 3.6% higher than that of GC-4 and is characterized by a tall, erect plant type with abundant branching and compact umbels. It matures in 118–138 days, placing it in the medium maturity group. Under natural field conditions, Jodhpur Jeera-1 exhibits moderate resistance to both Fusarium wilt and Alternaria blight, recording a mean blight disease incidence of 26.0% compared to 34.4% in GC-4, along with lower infestation by aphids and thrips. The variety was recommended for commercial cultivation in irrigated, timely sown rabi conditions of Rajasthan in 2025.
Jodhpur Jeera (JJ-1), cumin, seed yield, essential oil content
Effect of foliar application of elicitors on growth and yield of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)
A field experiment was conducted during 2024-25 at farmer’s field to study the effect of foliar spray of elicitors on growth and yield of turmeric. The experiment was laid out in RBD with seven treatments replicated thrice. Application of salicylic acid (100 ppm) at 150, 180 and 210 days after planting (DAP), consistently produced maximum plant height (103.39 cm), number of leaves (15.82), leaf length (60.48 cm) and leaf width (16.24 cm). Yield attributes viz., total rhizomes (26.15), number and weight of mother rhizomes (2.95; 186.12 g), number and weight of primary rhizomes (10.12; 199.53 g), number and weight of secondary rhizomes (11.40; 58.07 g), yield per plant (443.72 g) and dry recovery (26.17%) were recorded highest with salicylic acid (100 ppm) sprayed at 150, 180 and 210 DAP. Therefore, salicylic acid at 100 ppm is recommended to improve growth and yield of turmeric.
Turmeric, chitosan, jasmonic acid, potassium silicate, salicylic acid
Effect of exogenous application of plant growth regulators on vegetative growth and flowering of guava cv. Allahabad Safeda
The experiment was conducted during 2024-25 at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur, to evaluate the influence of exogenous application of plant growth regulators on vegetative growth and flowering of the guava cv. Allahabad Safeda. Foliar application of 200 ppm gibberellic acid proved most effective in enhancing the tree height (0.63±0.01 m), tree spread (1.57±0.04 m E-W and 1.25±0.06 m N-S) and canopy volume (10.36±0.34 m³). The increase in stem diameter was greatest with 1500 ppm CCC (1.89±0.01 cm). The total chlorophyll content was greatest (2.32±0.12 mg/g) with 2 ppm brassinosteroids. Gibberellic acid (200 ppm) not only hastened the days to first flowering (27.20±0.32 days) but also accelerated the progression to 50% flowering (53.13±0.81 days). The highest fruit set (78.33±0.26%) and fruit retention (60.33±1.53%) and the highest number of flowers/ shoot (7.55±0.04) were recorded with 200 ppm gibberellic acid. The lowest fruit drop (39.67±1.53%) was also recorded in the treatment 200 ppm gibberellic acid. Overall, 200 ppm gibberellic acid was most effective in promoting vegetative growth and flowering in guava.
Guava, growth traits, flowering traits, brassinosteroids, CCC, GA3
Influence of plant spacing on yield and yield components of improved onion varieties in Mersa District, North Wollo, Ethiopia
This study evaluated the effects of plant spacing and variety on growth and yield of onion in Mersa District, North Wollo, Ethiopia. Treatments consisted of a factorial combination of three improved varieties and six planting spacing arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Analysis of variance revealed that the interaction of spacing and variety significantly affected most growth and yield parameters. The highest marketable bulb yield (44.57 t/ ha) was obtained from the Nafis variety at 10 cm × 5 cm spacing. Maximum yields of Adama and Bombay Red were recorded at 20 cm × 3 cm spacing. The widest spacing produced the lowest yields across all varieties. Results indicate that optimal spacing is variety-specific; closer spacing favored higher productivity, particularly for Bombay Red and Adama, while Nafis performed well across moderate to close spacings. These findings provide practical recommendations to improve onion productivity under similar agro-ecological conditions.
Onion, plant spacing, varietal performance, bulb yield
Medicinal herbs cultivation to ensure a sustainable supply of quality raw herbal drugs: A review
Geographical Indications (GIs) are closely associated with product quality, as the agroecological conditions of a region impart unique characteristics to agricultural commodities. These distinctive quality traits facilitate the filing and registration of GI products. India, being one of the world’s mega-biodiversity regions, possesses a rich diversity of medicinal plants. However, the increasing demand for herbal medicines has led to destructive harvesting practices, threatening the natural populations of these valuable species. Therefore, the protection and promotion of GIs can play a significant role in branding and marketing region-specific products, thereby enhancing the economic prosperity of local producers and manufacturers. In addition to supporting regional economic development, GI registration also strengthens export potential. Among the GI-tagged horticultural commodities, spices, medicinal, and aromatic crops together constitute less than 25% of the total share. Although GI registration in the horticulture sector has progressed considerably over the years, medicinal and aromatic crops still possess very few GI tags, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, documentation, and registration efforts in this sector.
Raw drug, GI registration, medicinal crops, quality, region-specific
Present status and future prospects of Ber ( Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.)-A review
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk.) is one of the hardy fruits that can be profitably cultivated in arid and semi-arid conditions, where most other fruit trees fail to grow due to lack of irrigation and other environmental constraints. It is mainly cultivated for its fresh fruits and rightly called as poor man’s apple due to its high nutrition al value i.e. higher protein (0.8 g), β-carotene (70 IU), vitamin C (50-100 mg) and medicinal value. In North India, ber flowers in the month of August-September. It mainly produces heavy flowers in the auxiliary cymes on maturation, and current season’s growth with very high fruit set percentage. It can be processed to prepare various value added products i.e. murabba, pulps, jam, candies and beverage. The best method of commercial propagation is by budding and the widely adopted is shield budding (T or I budding). Recently success in micro propagation of ber has also been achieved and the best explant for in vitro micro propagation is stem from mature tree. Due to its ability to withstand adverse climatic conditions, it is truly a “desert apple” or “king of arid fruits” and can be profitable grown by farmers of arid and semi-arid regions of India.
Ber, budding, species, rootstock, scion and micro propagation.
Economically important underutilized fruits suitable for arid eco-system-A review
The climatic conditions of western Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat are characterized by low and erratic rainfall, high thermal oscillation, and harsh weather. As a result, much of the land is barren, making it suitable for the cultivation of arid fruits that are currently underutilized. Some examples of these underutilized fruits include Kair (Capparis deciduas L.), Karonda (Carissa carandas L.), Khejri (Prosopis cineraria), Pilu (Salvadora oleoides), Tamarind (Tamarindus indica), Wood apple (Feronia limonia L. Swingle), Cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica), Nagphani (Opuntia elatior Mill.), and Dansara (Rhusmysorenis Heneex Wight & Arn.). These fruit crops grow naturally and have been utilized by local communities for a long time due to their nutritional value and resilience to harsh climatic conditions. This review focuses on the underexploit ed fruits with the potential to thrive in such environments, discussing aspects such as value addition, post-harvest management, and future prospects for these crops.
Arid eco-system, me dicinal value, underutilized fruit. Minor arid fruits
Ziziphus nummularia (Burm. f.) Wight & Arn.: A versatile array of fruits from the Indian Thar Desert-A review
The recognition of diversity among plant species highlights the importance of utilizing neglected and underutilized plants, which play a crucial role in ensuring food security, providing livestock feed, generating income, and meeting the energy re quirements of rural communities. This approach promotes sustainable food security by diversifying our food sources, rather than depending solely on staple crops, which can create a limited food supply and increase vulnerability. Although dietary diver sification and the supply of essential micronutrients like vitamins and minerals hold significant promise for reducing risks in agricultural production systems, they’re main underexplored in research and development. This neglect may result in genetic erosion. Ziziphus nummularia is a plant species whose entire structure-fruits, leaves, branches, and roots-holds considerable economic value in rural communities. For instance, ripe fruits are consumed fresh, leaves serve as fodder, thorny branches are used for fencing farm boundaries, and wood is utilized for fuel and the creation of local agricultural tools, in addition to its applications in traditional medicine. In addition, this plant is capable of thriving under environmental pressures such as high temperatures, significant wind speeds, and low moisture availability, making it appropriate for cultivation in regions with adverse natural conditions, such as deteriorating land and limited water supplies. The limited research conducted on Z. nummularia has further complicated efforts to develop superior varieties within this species. In the future, it is crucial to conduct studies that fully leverage the potential of this species. This article is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of Z. nummularia, with the intention of inspiring researchers to explore this crop, which is vital in India and other arid and semi-arid areas around the world.
Seed priming and environmental effects on germination and seedling vigour in Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)
Aonla, an important indigenous minor fruit crop, is highly valued for its rich nutrient content. However, the increasing demand for its planting material remains unmet due to poor seed germination and seedling growth. Thus, there is an urgent need to standardize techniques to improve seed germination and seedling development. The current study aims to overcome seed dormancy and to enhance germination in aonla seeds. An experiment was carried out at the College of Horticulture, Venkataraman nagudem from January 2022 to May 2022, using a Factorial Randomized Block De sign with three replications, comprising 16 treatment combinations. Aonla seeds were treated with GA3 at concentrations of 300, 500, and 700 ppm for soaking periods of 12 and 24 hours under shade net and polyhouse, along with a control treatment that involved soaking in water for 24 hours. The results indicated that the combination of seed priming with GA3 @ 500 ppm for 24 hours and polyhouse conditions recorded the best outcomes, with minimum number of days to germinate (7.93 days), number of leaves (29.30), seedling diameter (6.36 mm), root length (17.50 cm) and number of roots per seedling (36.00) and survival percentage (89.32%). This study will help boost the commercial cultivation of aonla, providing significant benefits for growers.
Aonla, seed priming, gibberellic acid, growing condition, polyhouse
Influence of weed control treatments on available soil nutrient and plant growth parameters of guava (Psidium guajava L.)
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different weed control methods on soil health and growth parameters in guava cultivation. In this study, 9 years old guava plants of cultivar L-49 at CCSHAU, Hisar were selected during the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. A total of twenty-one treatments were applied on guava trees. Soil and leaf nutrient levels were assessed along with growth parameters including plant height, canopy spread, chlorophyll content anwwd leaf area. Among herbicides, glyphosate (1.26 kg/ha) + carfentrazone (20 g/ha) resulted in the highest levels of N (261.77 and 263.86 kg/ha), Zn (6.79 and 6.80 mg/kg), and Fe (2.26 and 2.28 mg/kg) and glyphosate (1.26 kg/ha) + oxyfluorfen (100 g/ha) led to the maximum levels of P (30.20 and 31.27 kg/ha) and K (298.67 and 299.66 kg/ha) respectively. The maximum leaf area (52.21 cm2 and 54.56 cm2) and the greatest increase in plant spread (ranging from 6.12% to 7.15%) were recorded in the treatment with glyphosate (1.26 kg/ ha) combined with carfentrazone (20 g/ha). The highest increases in plant height were observed with the application of glyphosate (1.26 kg/ha) combined with carfentrazone (20 g/ha) and glyphosate (1.26 kg/ha) combined with oxyfluorfen (100 g/ha), with percentage increases ranging from 6.91% to 7.05% and 6.90% to 7.07%, respectively. Additionally, manual weeding and mulching also resulted in better growth parameters, including increased plant height and canopy spread.
Herbicides, guava, weed free, soil nutrients, leaf area
Screening of Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) genotypes for fruit rot resistance
Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) is a hardy dryland horticultural crop with high export potential and significant economic benefits. However, fruit rot, caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides Penz, is one of the major diseases that can lead to substantial losses in yield. The study revealed that all 30 genotypes were infected by the disease. The Attached Fruit Culture (AFC) method showed that a higher number of genotypes exhibited a highly susceptible reaction when inoculated using the Mycelial Bit Inoculation Method (MBIM) compared to the Micro Droplet Inoculation Technique (MDIT). In the MBIM method, the genotypes Vrudheshwar-3, Verul-2, Karkhel, Vrudheshwar-4, Vrudheshwar-2, Telgaon Local, Humnabad Local, and Dhanagarawadi-3 exhibited moderate resistance. In the MDIT method, Vrudheshwar-3, Verul-2, and Karkhel showed resistance to the disease. Additionally, under natural field conditions, Vrudheshwar-3, Verul-2, Karkhel, Humnabad Local, Dhanagarwadi-3, and Vrudheshwar-4 were recorded as resistant to fruit rot disease.
Custard apple, fruit rot, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, AFC, MBIM, MDIT
Effect of NPK and sulphur on yield of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis L.)
A field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm of the Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute in Durgapura, Jaipur, during the Rabi season of 2019-20. The study included four levels of NPK (0%, 60%, 100%, and 120% of the recommended dose) and four doses of sulphur (0, 20, 40, and 50 kg/ha), result ing in a total of 16 treatment combinations. These treatments were tested using a randomized block design with three replications. The results indicated that the application of 100% of the recommended dose of NPK, along with sulphur @ 40 kg/ha, was the most effective treatment combination for the cauliflower crop. This combination resulted in an average curd weight of 431.81 g, a total curd yield per plot of 122.68 kg, and a total curd yield of 213.24 q/ha.
Cauliflower, NPK, sulphur , growth and yield
The shot hole borer (Ambrosia beetle): Deciphering component in wilt complex as an emerging issue in pomegranate-A review
Ambrosia i.e. shot hole borer beetles are beetles of the weevil subfamilies Scolytinae and Platypodinae (Coleoptera, Curculionidae), which live in nutritional symbiosis with ambrosia fungi. The beetles excavate tunnels in preferably wilted dead, stressed plants and little bits in healthy trees in which they cultivate fungal gardensas their sole source of nutrition. The shot hole borer, Xyleborus fornicatus severely affected pomegranate as this pest occurs sporadically in Ahmednagar. Life cycle from egg emergence to adult life of this pest was completed in 34 days with 13:1 female to male ratio. The symbiotic fungus Fusarium euwallaceae is associated with Euwalla ceae fornicatus causing branch dieback once introduced. Beetle play key role in the mechanical transmission of wilt pathogens. Because of haplodiploidy nature there is no need to find mates, brother-sister mating increases the chances of colonization and therefore, one or a few individuals are sufficient to establish a new population. As deciphering component, the wilt incidence reported from 0 to 46.3 per cent of survey report in Bagalkote followed by Belgavi in Karnataka and stated that the in festation of shot hole borer alone was not noticed. Furthermore, association of shot hole borer and nematode results in higher per cent disease incidence. Maintaining healthy trees by reducing physiological stress is the first recommendation for long term control. If growers maintain optimal condition the ubiquitous amborsia beetle will be in consequential. Pasting of geru with and drenching of emamectin benzoate at 2 g + propiconazole 1 ml per litre water in infested plant will be effective remedy for the management of pest with symbiotic fungal inoculum.
Ambrosia beetle, Fusarium wilt, pomegranate, shot hole borer, symbiosis
Studies on weather parameters, screening of cultivars and efficacy of fungi cides on Alternaria alternata causing leaf spot in bael (Aegle marmelos)
Thirteen bael cultivars were evaluated for resistance to Alternaria leaf spot disease. Three cultivars were classified as resistant, nine as moderately resistant, and one as moderately susceptible. The disease prevalence was influenced by weather conditions, particularly temperatures ranging from 27.60°C to 35.75°C, relative humidity between 58.00% and 80.40%, 7.80 hours of daily sunshine and 1.50 mm of rainfall. The disease spread rapidly after seasonal rains, peaking during the 35th meteorological week with 60.60% intensity under temperatures of 24.95°C to 31.80°C and relative humidity of 74.05% to 90.25%. Among all the treatments, Propiconazole (@ 0.1%) was the most effective, reducing disease intensity (7.78%) and 71.41% disease control followed by Difenconazole (@ 0.1%) 10.69% disease intensity and 60.35% disease control, respectively.
Bael, Alternaria al ternata, epidemiology, screening, management
Effect of foliar application of biofertilizers on productivity and quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.)
This study examines the impact of foliar biofertilizer applications on the yield and quality parameters of guava (Psidium guajava L.) variety L-49. The results revealed significant improvements in both yield and quality parameters of guava with biofertilizer applications compared to the control. Among the treatments, T7 (Trichoderma viride 10%) emerged as the most effective, significantly enhancing yield and quality parameters compared to the control (T1 ). T7 recorded the highest number of fruits per plant (96.50), with increases of 50% over the control, which is at par with Trichoderma viride 5%, Pseudomonas 10% and Pseudomonas 5%. Trichoderma viride at 10% exhibited the highest yield (21.95 kg/plant), with increases of 99% over the control, which is at par with Trichoderma viride 5%. It also demonstrated superior fruit dimensions, weight (226.99 g), and pulp percentage (96.29%), reflecting enhanced productivity. In terms of fruit quality, T7 achieved the highest TSS (12.80 °Brix), TSS: acid ratio (39.03), ascorbic acid content (234.60 mg/100g), and sugar content (9.60%), while maintaining balanced acidity (0.328%).
Biofertilizer, Trichoderma, productivity, quality and guava