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Water-soluble fertilizers provide a very effective and adaptable method of managing nutrients, which has completely changed contemporary agriculture methods. These fertilizers allow for exact control over the distribution of nutrients to crops because they are made to dissolve easily in water. This trait improves crop quality and production by facilitating better nutrient uptake. Farmers now have an easier time fertilizing their fields since water-soluble fertilizers are easy to apply and can adapt to a variety of irrigation schemes. They are a sustainable option in modern agriculture because of their decreased negative effects on the environment and less fertilizer waste. The increasing worldwide need for food has made the planned application of water-soluble fertilizers an indispensable instrument for attaining maximum agricultural productivity and guaranteeing food security amidst population growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study on soil carbon dynamics provides valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices, optimizing crop productivity and environmental sustainability in maize-based cropping systems. The present study aimed to find out the soil characteristics and carbon dynamics in maize-based cropping systems in the Western zone of Tamil Nadu, India. Soil samples from six cropping systems were analyzed for bulk density, sand, silt, clay content, pH, available nutrients (N, P, K, Zn), total organic carbon (TOC), oxidizable organic carbon fractions, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and carbon pools. The distribution of oxidizable organic carbon fractions varied among cropping systems and soil depths. The easily decomposable and moderately labile fractions were highest in the maize-black gram system, while the recalcitrant fraction showed variations across cropping systems. The active carbon pool (Cf1 + Cf2) was highest at 2.53 g kg-1 in the maize-blackgram system, while the passive carbon pool (Cf3 + Cf4) was also highest at 3.79 g kg-1 in this system. The study also assessed the carbon stock and microbial biomass carbon. TOC content decreased with depth, with the highest values observed in the topsoil. The maize-black gram system had the highest TOC content at all depths. MBC content followed a similar pattern, with the highest values in the topsoil and the maize-black gram system. These findings provided insights into the soil characteristics and carbon dynamics in maize-based cropping systems in the study area. The long-term integration of maize cultivation with blackgram demonstrated significant enhancements in organic carbon levels, TOC content, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and both passive and active carbon pools characterized by rapid turnover rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil carbon mineralization is vital for carbon sequestration but affected by factors like soil type and residue quality. Understanding the process and factors is still incomplete, including the interplay between soil properties and organic residues and the need for accurate kinetic models. Research faces significant challenges in describing carbon mineralization dynamics. The present study aimed to investigate carbon mineralization in three soils located in Tamil Nadu, India (S1, S2 and S3) that possess distinct textures. The study also focused on the effects of five different plant residues (Rice, maize, sugarcane, cotton and turmeric) on carbon mineralization in these soils. Incubation experiments were conducted for 150 days, and CO2 evolution was measured at different time intervals of 7, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 days. The performance of three kinetic models (Zero order model, exponential kinetic model and first order model) was also evaluated in predicting carbon mineralization using experimental data. The results showed that the rate and extent of carbon mineralization varied significantly among the different soils and residues. The highest carbon mineralization was observed in rice (989.02 µg C/g/day) and maize (966.53 µg C/g/day) residue, while the lowest was in sugarcane (752.09 µg C/g/day) residue. Among the kinetic models, the first-order kinetic model provided the best fit for all treatments (R² =0.98). The findings suggest that soil texture and residue quality play crucial roles in carbon mineralization. The first order kinetic model can be useful for predicting carbon mineralization in different soil-residue systems. These results have implications for managing soil carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a potential indicator of soil quality and ecosystem sustainability. The present study aimed to evaluate SOC pools under major cropping systems of Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu. The composite samples were collected from two depths (0-15 and 15-30 cm) by stratified random sampling and were analysed for pH, EC (Electrical conductivity), C fractions, inorganic carbon and permanganate oxidisable carbon by standard procedures. The SOC content under different land use was in the order of Forestry > Rice – pulses > Rice – cotton > Sugarcane > Uncultivated. The mean SOC content of the study area was 12.58 Mg ha-1, where the majority of the area falls under low to medium rating of SOC. Hence, cultivation practices should incorporate activities that increase SOC to maintain soil quality. SOC was positively correlated with fractions of carbon – CVL (r = 0.37**), CL (r = 0.65**) and CLL (r = 0.58**), indicating changes in land use would affect the carbon dynamics of the ecosystem. The root biomass, aeration status, microbial activity, nutrient reserves and inherent soil characteristics influenced SOC to decrease with depth. The PCA analysis revealed that the variation in carbon dynamics of the study area was influenced by SOC, CLC, CLL and non-labile carbon due to differences in land management practices. Therefore, such soil management practices will be a powerful tool to sequester carbon, which supplements climate change mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to study the impact of water logging and addition of organic amendments on green house gas (GHG) emissions in a saline soil. The treatments comprised of water levels maintained at three levels viz., complete saturation, 10 cm and 15 cm below the soil surface. Organic amendment at the rate of 7.5 t ha-1 was added. Gas samples were collected at periodic intervals and analysed. The results revealed that CO2, N2O and C2H2 emissions were lowe under a water logged condition and were found to be higher at water levels 10 cm / 15 cm below the soil surface. There was an increase in emissions from 100 to 400 mg kg-1 at 7 days after incubation (DAI). Methane emission was found to be higher in completely saturated soil. Soils at 10 cm water level and amended with the organic material registered a higher value of soil microbial biomass - C of 1320 mg kg-1. Emissions of GHG were enhanced with the addition of organic material. This suggests that lack of C substrate is the dominant limitation for GHG emissions on saline soil. Lower q CO2 values in water logged soils indicate low microbial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pot culture experiment was carried out with the redgram var. CO(Rg)7 at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The soil used for the experiment was red, calcareous, sandy loam which belongs to the soil series Palladam (TypicUstropept). The experiment soil was medium in available N (285 kg ha-1), high in available P (26.75 kg ha-1) and K (287 kg ha-1). The soil was deficient in DTPA-Fe (4.80 mg kg-1), DTPA-Mn (0.25 mg kg-1), DTPA-Zn (0.15 mg kg-1), DTPA-Cu (0.22 mg kg-1), and sufficient in hot water soluble B (0.75 mg kg-1). The experiment was laid out with eleven treatments in a completely randomised design (CRD) replicated thrice to study the effect of foliar application of multinutrients on the yield, quality, uptake and soil nutrient status of redgram. In the treatments of foliar application with different combinations of complex, micronutrient and chelated micronutrient fertilisers at different stages, application of 0.5% KNO3 + 2% DAP + micronutrient spray along with soil application of 100% recommended dose of NPK (T7) recorded the maximum value of yield attributes. Quality parameters such as seed protein content and seed total free amino acid content were enhanced by the foliar application of 0.5% KNO3 + 2% DAP + micronutrient spray. Application of 100% RD NPK and foliar spraying of 0.5% KNO3 + 2% DAP + micronutrient recorded the highest macro and micro nutrient uptake which was followed by the treatments that received 100% RD NPK and foliar spray of 0.5% MAP + 0.5% KNO3 + micronutrients and 100% RD NPK and foliar spray of 0.5% KNO3 + 2% DAP + chelated micronutrients. Availability of N, P, K, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B contents in soil at different stages was significantly influenced by the various foliar applications. The Chlorophyll 'a', 'b' and total chlorophyll contents were found to be the highest in the treatment that received 100% RD NPK + foliar spray of 0.5% KNO3 + 2% DAP + micronutrients (T7). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field trials were conducted in agroforestry system involving multipurpose tree species and fodder crops to assess the biomass production in Acacia leucopholea, Ailanthus excelsa, Tectona grandis, Gmelina arborea, Erythrina indica, Pongamia glabra and Thespesia populenea based silvipasture system. The results revealed that A. leucopholea + Cenchrus Ciliaris gave the highest LER of 1.13. Under 15 years old A. excelsa plantations, fodder cow pea recorded the highest fodder yield of 7.08 t ha-1 with LER value of 0.84. Desmanthus virgatus was found to be a compatible fodder crop for teak plantations of 10 years old and guinea grass recorded the highest green fodder yield of 3.91 t ha-1under pungam based silvipasture system. In all the silvipastoral systems, irrespective of the tree component, grass fodder recorded the highest RYT followed by legume fodder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cultivation of green leafy vegetables is crucial for improving our nation's nutritional security. Challenges like limited arable land and excessive fertilizer use have become significant concerns on cultivating in open field. To address these issues, vertical farming technology, with a focus on space optimization and hydroponic integration to manage fertilizer use, is gaining attention. This experiment aims to determine the best growing media and nutrient solutions for palak in an A-framed vertical unit. Three growing media were tested: coir pith (M0), Rockwool (M1), and a 1:1 mix of coir pith and vermiculite (M2). Various combinations of water-soluble fertilizers [Ca (NO3)2, MAP, and SOP] were used for each crop's nutrient recipe preparation. Optimal yields were achieved when palak were grown in a coir pith and vermiculite mix with nutrient concentrations of 60:50:60 ppm. Despite high yields, green leafy vegetables face rapid spoilage and storage challenges. The study examined factors affecting post-harvest quality, including storage conditions (ambient at 35 ± 5°C, refrigerated at 5 ± 5°C), packing substrates (low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene covers), and gas compositions with modified atmosphere packaging. Results showed that refrigerated storage with low-density polyethylene packing and a gas composition of 6% O2, 5% CO2, and 89% N2 (G2) resulted in the least deterioration in physiological attributes and overall visual quality. This study highlights the potential of vertical farming technology, precise nutrient management, and advanced post-harvest techniques for sustainable production and preservation of green leafy vegetables to meet our nation's nutritional security needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted in two different agro-climatic zones during kharif 2011 at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai and Wetlands, TNAU farm, Coimbatore to study the effect of customized fertilizers on yield and soil properties of lowland rice ecosystem. Two formulations of customized fertilizers viz., N: P: K mixture (CF I) and N: P: K: Zn mixture (CF II) have been developed based on the blanket recommendation (BR) of straight fertilizers being followed in Tamil Nadu. Three levels of CF I and CF II viz., 50%, 75% and 100% of RDF were compared with 100% RDF through straight fertilizers. The results revealed that application of 100% RDF in the form of CF II increased the productive tillers (21 nos.), panicle length (27.70 cm) and number of filled grains per panicle (203 nos.). Application of 100% RDF in the form of CF II recorded the highest grain yield of 6878 kg ha-1 followed by the application of 100 % RDF in the form of CF I + 25 kg Zn SO4 ha-1 ( 6622 kg ha-1). Per cent increase in yield of 22.2 per cent over the application of straight fertilizers was recorded due to the application of 100 % RDF in the form of CF II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted in two different agro-climatic zones during kharif 2011 at Tamil Nadu Rice Research Institute, Aduthurai and Wetlands, TNAU farm, Coimbatore to study the effect of customized fertilizers on yield and soil properties of lowland rice ecosystem. Two formulations of customized fertilizers viz., N: P: K mixture (CF I) and N: P: K: Zn mixture (CF II) have been developed based on the blanket recommendation (BR) of straight fertilizers being followed in Tamil Nadu. Three levels of CF I and CF II viz., 50%, 75% and 100% of RDF were compared with 100% RDF through straight fertilizers. The results revealed that application of 100% RDF in the form of CF II increased the productive tillers (21 nos.), panicle length (27.70 cm) and number of filled grains per panicle (203 nos.). Application of 100% RDF in the form of CF II recorded the highest grain yield of 6878 kg ha-1 followed by the application of 100% RDF in the form of CF I + 25 kg Zn SO4 ha-1 (6622 kg ha-1). Per cent increase in yield of 22.2 per cent over the application of straight fertilizers was recorded due to the application of 100% RDF in the form of CF II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 50 genotypes were evaluated during Kharif 2022 in three different locations in Tamilnadu, India. The data on seed yield per plant was subjected to AMMI and GGE biplot analysis for stability study. The IPCA values explained 100% and 98.8% variation in AMMI and GGE biplot respectively. Results from both analyses inferred that the genotypes viz., Mash 114, Mash 1008, VBN (Bg) 4 and VBN 10 were stable across the environments with high mean seed yield per plant. Hence these varieties can be utilized for cultivation in varied environments of Tamilnadu. Besides, the genotypes; MASH 1008, MASH 114, VBN (Bg) 4, VBN 8, VBN 10 and VBN 11 were found to be resistant to MYMV based on the field screening at National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Over the years, the excessive P fertilizer application to crop fields resulted in the build up of insoluble phosphorus pool in soil known as legacy phosphorus. This represents a vast and largely untapped resource in soil. The current study was conducted to evaluate the potential of some P activators (Phosphorus solubilising bacteria, phytase, humic acid, farmyard manure) on increasing the plant availability of legacy P in calcareous soil. Methods: A field experiment was conducted with maize hybrid COH(M) 6. The P activators were combined and applied along with the different doses of P fertilizer (100%, 75% and 50% soil test dose of single super phosphate). Result: Farmyard Manure (FYM) application with Humic acid (HA) showed the increased Olsen P under 100% and 75% of P application. The phosphorus activation response of FYM+HA applied plots showed a higher value than other treatments. The maize yield and P uptake obtained with FYM and HA were statistically comparable at 100% and 75% soil test dose of P. The findings have illustrated that even the reduced amount of P fertilizer application can support the crop growth due to the release of legacy P if they are applied along with P-activators such as FYM and HA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cropping system involves proper management of inputs in a synergistic manner. Latest advancements in cropping system has resulted in including new rewarding crops in an appropriate manner with higher efficiency in utilization of resources. This ultimately effects the farmers with higher gross returns. Considering this fact, proper cohesion of nutrients/resources is essential to maintain an optimum fertility in the soil. This involves precise integration of synthetic chemicals, organics and biofertilizers; so that these practices may not incur a deterioration in soil health. Thus, this review projects the techniques of efficient pre-requisites in a cropping system for achieving higher productivity in a eco-friendly manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiment conducted at Rice Research Station, Tirur, Tiruvallur District of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University aimed to evaluate the performance of rice-based cropping sequences of cucurbits in the district. Five cropping sequences were evaluated for Rice - Rice - Ashgourd, Rice - Rice - Muskmelon, Rice - Rice - Cucumber, Rice - Rice - Pumpkin and Rice - Rice - Watermelon. The study focused on the post samba season (December - March), when water scarcity results in low yields for rice cultivation. Instead of leaving the land as fallow during this season, cucurbits were raised to increase income. The results indicated that watermelon, cucumber and muskmelon were suitable for cultivation during the post samba season, with good economic returns. Rice - Rice - Watermelon recorded the highest yield of 26.10 t/ha with a BCR of 2.66 followed by Rice - Rice - Muskmelon (yield; 25.05 t/ha and BCR: 2.30) and Rice - Rice - Cucumber also showed good results with a yield of 20.4 t/ha and BCR of 2.19. Overall, the experiment's findings suggested that cultivating short duration cucurbits in the rice cropping sequence during the post samba season could help farmers to generate additional income instead of leaving the land as fallow. This information could be beneficial for farmers in Tiruvallur district, as it provides an alternative income source and maximizes the land's productivity during the low-yielding season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Weeds are the major biological constraint in okra due to its slow initial growth and wider row spacing. Due to severe crop weed competition, weeds removed considerable amount of nutrients from the soil. Competition exists between the crop and weed for nutrients results in nutrient deficiencies in crop. Hence the present experiment is formulated to assess the effect of stale seedbed, mulching and mechanical weeding on nutrient availability, nutrient uptake by crop and weed in okra. Methods: Experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala during Rabi 2020-21. Design adopted for the study was RBD with two factors. The first factor was seedbed preparation (S) and the second factor was weed management (W). Stale seedbed (S1) and normal seedbed (S2) were the two different seedbed preparation methods and dried banana leaf mulch @10 t ha-1 alone (W1), dried banana leaf mulch @10 t ha-1 fb wheel hoe weeding at 30 and 45 DAS (W2), dried banana leaf mulch @10 t ha-1 fb hand weeding at 30 and 45 DAS (W3), wheel hoe weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAS (W4), hand weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAS (W5) and weedy check (W6) were the six different weed management options tried. Soil samples were collected after the harvest of the crop to determine the nutrient availability. Weed samples at 30 and 60 DAS and plant samples at harvest were analyzed to determine the NPK content and respective uptake of nutrients were calculated by multiplying the nutrient content with DMP. Result: Stale seedbed significantly enhanced the dry matter production and nutrient uptake by okra at harvest and lowered the nutrient removal by weeds at 30 and 60 DAS. Compared to non-stale, stale seedbed recorded significantly higher fruit yield. Among the weed management, wheel hoe weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAS, recorded the lowest total weed dry weight at 30 and 60 DAS and resulted in the highest NPK uptake by crop and fruit yield. Uncontrolled weed growth resulted in a loss of 81.33, 18.16 and 50.84 kg N:P:K ha-1 at 30 DAS and 102.09, 57.90 and 55.31 kg N:P:K ha-1 at 60 DAS, respectively. Nutrient removal by weeds was the lowest in wheel hoe weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAS and the highest in weedy check. It could be concluded that, wheel hoe weeding at 15, 30 and 45 DAS was the best option for the management of weeds, higher nutrient availability and uptake and yield in okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cowpea is a leguminous crop of indeterminate growth habit and continues to produce flowers throughout its life cycle. In order to realize the genetic yield potential of cowpea, nutrient requirements of later formed flushes also needs to be met. Hence the present study was formulated to assess the effect of foliar application of water-soluble macro nutrient fertilizers viz., NPK 19:19:19 and potassium nitrate and micronutrient fertilizers viz. zinc sulphate and solubor for yield maximization in bush vegetable cowpea. Methods: The field experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram, during Rabi 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 13 treatments in three replications. The treatments comprised of recommended dose of conventional fertilizers (RDF) NPK 20:30:10 kg ha-1 as control and RDF + foliar application of water-soluble fertilizers 19:19:19 (0.5%) and potassium nitrate (0.5%) with zinc sulphate (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%) in twelve different combinations. Result: Results revealed that compared to RDF alone, RDF + foliar application of water-soluble macro and micro nutrient fertilizers at 45 DAS significantly improved the dry matter production, number of pods per plant and pod weight and recorded a yield enhancement of 22 to 55 per cent. Among the treatments, RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS recorded the highest dry matter production per plant (39.51 g), pods per plant (30.88 no.), pod yield (7410 kg ha-1), net return (82651 Rs ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.26). The treatments, RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%) at 45 DAS; RDF + foliar application of 19:19:19 (0.5%), zinc sulphate (0.05%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS; and RDF + foliar application of potassium nitrate (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS also recorded comparable number of pods per plant, green pod yield, net return and B:C ratio. Considering the highest green pod yield, net return and B:C ratio, RDF + foliar application of NPK 19:19:19 (0.5%) and solubor (0.025%) at 45 DAS could be recommended for yield maximization in bush type vegetable cowpea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental stresses such as low soil moisture and soil nutrient deficiency are among the main causes of low crop productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. Soilless cultivation is intensively used in protected agriculture to improve control over the growing environment and avoid uncertainties in the soil’s water and nutrient status, leading to better result in water use efficiency, while maintaining the quality of the yield. Therefore, this study was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, An Najah University, Palestine, during 2016-17 growing season to investigate the effects of three soilless culture systems compared to agricultural soil growing media on yield and water use efficiency of lettuce crop under greenhouse cultivation. Four different growing media were investigated; pure soil serves as a control, pure volcanic tuff (VT), peat moss perlite mixture (2:1 v/v) and the nutrient film technique (NFT) (hydroponic) and their effect on the growth and productivity of lettuce were monitored. Results showed no significant differences in lettuce crop fresh weight and total fresh weight produced per unit area (m² ) within the different growing media tested. In contrast, the different growing media significantly influenced the water use efficiency (WUE) values. Peat moss-perlite mixture and the nutrient film technique (NFT) media resulted in the highest WUE and can save water remarkably, with an irrigated water saved ranging from 94 to 123%, respectively. Overall, results suggest that the NFT hydroponic system is the most efficient system for water-saving and water use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attention to intercropping for sustainable agriculture is increasing, and scientific studies on intercropping have also grown in recent years. Agroforestry Systems, which combine annual crops with trees, are used widely in semiarid regions to reduce wind erosion and improve the efficiency of resources such as water and nutrients. Field experiments were conducted at Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited Farm, Mondipatty, Tamil Nadu, to study the compatibility of intercropping systems in the Dalbergia sissoo-based Horti-silvicultural system for two years during 2016 and 2017. The experiments were conducted in a split-plot design with four replications. The main plot treatments were M1: Cassava M2:Chillies and the subplot treatments were five nutrient management packages viz., S1: Untreated control, S2: 100 % Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (Cassava: 90: 90: 240 and Chillies: 60: 80: 80),S3: 125 % Recommended Dose of Fertilizers (Cassava: 112.5: 112.5: 300 and Chillies: 75: 100: 100), S4:150 % (Cassava: 135: 135: 360 and Chillies: 90: 120: 120) Recommended Dose of Fertilizers, S5: Soil Test Crop Response studies - Integrated Plant Nutrient Supply System -based recommendation (as per soil test value). The results indicated that the Horti-Silvicultural system of growing Cassava and Chillies along with D. sissoo performed well. It was observed that statistically significant (p = 0.05) higher yields of 17.8 tha-1 and 1.6 tha-1 were recorded in Cassava and Chillies, respectively, in treatment S5, where the fertilizer was applied based on the Soil Test Crop Response studies - Integrated Plant Nutrient Supply System. In addition, the soil fertility status was also sustained in this plot. The fertilizers applied to the intercrops have contributed to the nutrient requirement of the tree crop and thereby reduced the cost of cultivation in the agroforestry system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the food production for the growing world population has needed application of highly sustainable and efficient inputs to produce more food per unit of land. Hence, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu has produced Water soluble fertilizers (WSF) in its maiden attempt and it is necessary to optimize on different crops. Small onion is one of the most important vegetables in the Indian diet and it has high demand but low productivity. To enhance crop productivity and quality of small onions, the application of TNAU-WSF was taken up. A field experiment was laid out in a Randomized block design (RBD) incorporating 8 treatments comprising of application of RDF at100% NPK as TNAU WSF, soil test based application of 75%, 100%, 125% NPK ha-1 as TNAU-WSF with soil application of sulphur (S) and foliar spray of TNAU Liquid multi micronutrient (LMM) and without S and TNAU LMM and absolute control. Each treatment was replicated thrice with onion (CO 4). Soil test based application of 125% NPK ha-1 as TNAU-WSF with sulphur (S) and TNAU LMM recorded significantly higher in plant height (54.01 cm), the number of leaves per bulb (8.56), leaf greenness (67.5 SPAD), root length (5.42 cm), polar bulb diameter (4.38 cm), equatorial bulb diameter (2.72 cm) fresh bulb weight (74.21 g), bulb yield (1751 t ha-1) and quality attributes like total soluble solids (TSS) (14.78 °Brix), ascorbic acid content (15.34 mg 100 g-1), pyruvic acid content (2.27 µmol g-1). However, soil test based application of 100% NPK ha-1 as TNAU-WSF was found to be an ideal rate to attain the economic target yield of the onion crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aggressive water stress and low productivity of rice are driving the exploration for location specific feasible agronomic management practices to increase water productivity and yield potential in rice farming. Field experiments were conducted to study the rice production using modified methods of irrigation and integrated nitrogen management, at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Tamil Nadu, India during Kuruvai (June-October) and Navarai (Jan-April) rice growing seasons of 2016 and 2017. Two irrigation regimes viz., alternate wetting and slight soil drying (when soil moisture content reaches 75% level of the field capacity) and alternate wetting and acute soil drying (when soil moisture content reaches 50% level of the field capacity) and four nutrient management practices viz., RDF as control, 50% N through legume based green leaf manuring (GLM), 50% N through non-legume based GLM and 50% N through mixture of legume and non-legume based GLM (1: 1 ratio). The results reveled that irrigation management involving alternative wetting with acute soil drying along with 50 per cent of recommended dose of nitrogen (60 kg/ha) as mixture of legume and non-legume GLM (1: 1 ratio) and remaining 50 per cent of nitrogen as inorganic source registered the higher values of plant height of 101.76 and 97.11 cm, number of tillers/m2 of 438.10 and 384.64, DMP of 11.34 and 11.39 t/ha, root volume of 22.07 and 18.39 cc, LAI of 5.32 and 4.71 and CGR of 15.26 and 14.56 mg/m2/day during Kuruvai and Navarai seasons, respectively. Therefore, this treatment combination is used for wet spot-seeded rice cultivation in coastal regions of Tamil Nadu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A suitable cropping system seem to be the possible solution to meet the continuous increase in demand for food, stability of income and diverse requirement of food grains. Selection of suitable cropping system for conservation of resources has prime importance now a day. The cropping systems selected in study have higher potential of production along with incorporable residues during winter. The residues of cotton, castor and mustard crops (Crops in selected cropping systems) have more potential to feed nutrients to soil as compared to burning. So incorporation of such crop residues in to soil helps to recycle the nutrients to correct their deficiencies. Farmyard manure is being used as major source of organic manure in field crops. Thus to maintain the soil health, integrated nutrient management approaches involving FYM and mineral source need to be standardized. So there is need to find out agronomically efficient and economically viable cropping system which can perform better for increasing productivity and profitability with association of conservation of natural resources. Methods: The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three replications. Sixteen treatment combinations comprising of four cropping system treatments viz, C1: Cotton-Summer Pearlmillet, C2: Greengram + Kharif Castor (Relay), C3: Greengram - Mustard - Summer Pearlmillet and C4: Greengram - Rabi Castor and two residue incorporation treatments viz, R0: No residue incorporation and R1: Residue incorporation as well as two fertilizer doses viz, F1: 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer and F2: 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 25% RDN through FYM were evaluated in the study. Result: Cotton - summer pearlmillet cropping system found significantly superior by recording higher pearlmillet equivalent yield, system productivity and system profitability while, total weed count/m2 and total weed dry weight were found the lowest under greengramkharif castor (relay) cropping system. Residue incorporation secured top position by recording significantly the highest pearlmillet equivalent yield, system productivity and system profitability as well as lowest total weed count/m2 and total weed dry weight. Application of 75% RDN through inorganic fertilizer + 25% RDN through FYM recorded significantly highest pearlmillet equivalent yield, system productivity and system profitability. In case of weed count and weed dry weight, 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizer found significantly superior by recording lowest total weed count/m2 and total weed dry weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) is an important concept in the evaluation of crop production systems. With emerging nutrient deficiencies under intensive agriculture, there is a need to improve NUE. One of the approaches to enhance it is by judicious use of fertilizers (adequate rate, effective source, methods and time of application) as well as inclusion of organic manures. Organic nutrient sources are very effective but as their availability is not sufficient to meet the nutrient demand, we have to integrate both organic and inorganic sources of nutrients together in order to achieve higher NUE. Common measures of NUE include Partial Factor Productivity (PFP), Agronomic Efficiency (AE), Apparent Recovery Efficiency (RE), Physiological Efficiency (PE) and Internal Utilization Efficiency (IE). Mineral Fertilizer Equivalent (MFE) is another parameter that can be used to assess short term release of nutrients (mainly nitrogen) from organic nutrient sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indian agriculture is suffering from low crop productivity and poor sustainability as its land suffers from varying degrees of soil fertility depletion. There exists a wide gap between amount of nutrients removed by crops and added through fertilizers resulting in reduced yields is due to mineral deficiency. Besides, there are issues of poor fertilizer response and reduced fertilizer use efficiency. Therefore, the holistic approach should be soil-climate-crop specific. It is essential to supply both macro and micronutrients to cater the needs of the crop. As Indian soils are deficit in supplying nutrients especially nitrogen and zinc, customized fertilizer is one option, being a multi-nutrient carrier of both macro and micro nutrients, is tailored to meet the region, soil, crop specific needs designed through specialised smart fertilizer technology, manufactured through systematic granulation process. These, customized fertilizer boost crop yields and arrest soil fertility deterioration over long run in a sustainable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the key atmospheric gas that controls the earth's greenhouse effect, and forests play a major role in abating the atmospheric CO2 by storing carbon as biomass. Therefore, it is vital to understand the role of different forests in regulating the spatiotemporal dynamics of atmospheric CO2 concentration. In this study, we have used eddy covariance (EC) tower-based atmospheric CO2 concentration measurements and satellite-retrieved column average CO2 concentration of 2018 to understand the diurnal and seasonal dynamics of atmospheric CO2 concentration over the sub-tropical forest in the foothills of northwest Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. EC study revealed that the CO2 concentration over the forest canopy peaks during mid-night to early morning and drop to a minimum during the afternoon. On a monthly scale, peak atmospheric CO2 concentration was observed during July in both the sites, which was a result of more release of CO2 by the forest ecosystem through ecosystem respiration and microbial decomposition. Enhanced photosynthetic activities during the late monsoon and post-monsoon resulted in the decrease of atmospheric CO2 concentration over the forest ecosystem. Among the meteorological variables, rainfall was found to have the highest control over the seasonal variability of the atmospheric CO2 concentration. Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) satellite-retrieved column average CO2 (XCO2) was also examined to comprehend its reliability on an ecosystem scale. The OCO-2 retrieved XCO2 value was higher than the EC carbon flux tower-measured atmospheric CO2 concentration, which might be due to differences in the vertical resolution of the CO2 column and scale difference. However, the monthly atmospheric XCO2 retrieved from OCO-2 strongly adheres with the ground-measured monthly pattern. Our study highlights that forests with varying functional traits within the same climatic conditions show variability in the regulation of atmospheric CO2 concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field study was conducted to quantify the effect of moisture stress on nutrient uptake and post-harvest available soil nutrient status of rice in Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during Kuruvai (July-November) 2019 and Navarai (December-March) 2019-20 seasons. Nine treatments, viz., Moisture stress at panicle initiation stage for 10 days (T1), 15 days (T2), 20 days (T3) and 25 days (T4), moisture stress at flowering stage for 10 days (T5), 15 days (T6), 20 days (T7) and 25 days (T8) along with control - maintaining saturation (T9) were tested under randomized complete block design with three replications. Moisture stress was imposed by withdrawing water and not irrigating in the defined period. The result showed that significantly higher total drymatter production and N, P and K nutrient uptake (grain, straw and total) during both the seasons were observed in T9 treatment than all other moisture stress imposed treatments. The least uptake of N, P and K in grain, straw and total was recorded in T4 and was statistically at par with T3. There was reverse trend on post-harvest soil nutrient status (NPK). The study revealed that moisture stress was more sensitive during panicle initiation stage than flowering stage, which directly influenced the uptake of nutrients in rice and there was a reverse trend on post-harvest soil available nutrients (NPK). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur to study the influence of seed polymer coating with micronutrients and foliar spray on seed yield of chickpea. The experiment consisted of seventeen different seed polymer coating and foliar spray treatments with various combinations of ZnSO4, boron, ammonium molybdate, FeSO4 including control. Among the different treatments imposed, seed polymer coating (@ 6 ml/kg) of chickpea seeds with the combination of ZnSO4 + Boron + Ammonium molybdate + FeSO4 (each @ 2 g/kg) of seed along with two foliar sprays (0.5 % + 0.2 % + 0.1 % + 0.5 %, respectively, ZnSO4 and FeSO4 in EDTA form) at an interval of 10 days during flowering stage (50 and 60 DAS) recorded significantly higher leaf area index, chlorophyll content, plant height, effective root nodules plant-1, pods plant-1, seed yield compared to all other treatments and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) is the key atmospheric gas that controls the earth's greenhouse effect, and forests play a major role in abating the atmospheric CO 2 by storing carbon as biomass. Therefore, it is vital to understand the role of different forests in regulating the spatiotemporal dynamics of atmospheric CO 2 concentration. In this study, we have used eddy covariance (EC) tower-based atmospheric CO 2 concentration measurements and satellite-retrieved column average CO 2 concentration of 2018 to understand the diurnal and seasonal dynamics of atmospheric CO 2 concentration over the sub-tropical forest in the foothills of northwest Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. EC study revealed that the CO 2 concentration over the forest canopy peaks during mid-night to early morning and drop to a minimum during the afternoon. On a monthly scale, peak atmospheric CO 2 concentration was observed during July in both the sites, which was a result of more release of CO 2 by the forest ecosystem through ecosystem respiration and microbial decomposition. Enhanced photosynthetic activities during the late monsoon and post-monsoon resulted in the decrease of atmospheric CO 2 concentration over the forest ecosystem. Among the meteorological variables, rainfall was found to have the highest control over the seasonal variability of the atmospheric CO 2 concentration. Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2 (OCO-2) satellite-retrieved column average CO 2 (XCO 2 ) was also examined to comprehend its reliability on an ecosystem scale. The OCO-2 retrieved XCO 2 value was higher than the EC carbon flux tower-measured atmospheric CO 2 concentration, which might be due to differences in the vertical resolution of the CO 2 column and scale difference. However, the monthly atmospheric XCO 2 retrieved from OCO-2 strongly adheres with the ground-measured monthly pattern. Our study highlights that forests with varying functional traits within the same climatic conditions show variability in the regulation of atmospheric CO 2 concentration.

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A laboratory experiment was carried out in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur to study the effect of seed polymer coating with micronutrients and foliar spray on the resultant seed quality parameters of chickpea. Among the seventeen different treatments, resultant chickpea seeds obtained from treatment polymer coated seeds (each@ 6 ml/kg of seed) along with the combination of micronutrients viz.,ZnSO4 + Boron + Ammonium molybdate + FeSO4 ( each @ 2 g/kg of seed ) and two foliar sprays (0.5 % + 0.2 % + 0.1% + 0.5 %, respectively, except ZnSO4 and FeSO4 in EDTA form) at an interval of 10 days during flowering stage (50 and 60 days after sowing) recorded significantly highest hundred seed weight (25.9 g), germination (97.00 %), speed of germination (18.50), shoot length (8.43 cm), root length (19.80 cm), seedling dry weight (43.30 mg) and seedling vigour index (2738) compared to all other treatments and control (23.6 g, 92.05 %, 13.74, 5.48 cm, 16.30 cm, 34.00 mg and 2004, respectively) and hence above treatment combinations can be used in order to produce good quality seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil Test Crop Response based fertilizer prescription equations for desired yield target of rainfed maize were developed under Integrated Plant Nutrition System (STCR-IPNS) on Irugur soil series (Typic Ustropept) of Tamil Nadu. On farm testing of fertilizer prescription equations are essential to demonstrate the effectiveness of technology delivery to the stake holders in need. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the targeted yield model through field experiments at six locations in Dindigul district, Western Zone of Tamil Nadu. The treatments included control, blanket recommendation, soil test crop response (STCR) based fertilizer dose for the yield targets of 4.0 to 6.0 t ha-1, STCR-IPNS based fertilizer dose for the yield targets of 4.0 to 6.0 t ha-1 and farmer's practice. In all the six locations, the per cent achievement of the targeted yield was within ± 10 per cent variation proving the validity of the equations for prescribing integrated fertilizer doses for rainfed maize. The highest mean grain yield was recorded in STCR-IPNS - 6.0 t ha-1 (5013 kg ha-1) recording an increase of 52.2 per cent over blanket recommendation. The highest per cent achievement, response ratio and B:C ratio of 97.2,17.47 and 2.28, respectively were recorded in the yield target of 5.0 t ha-1 under STCR-IPNS. The post-harvest soil available NPK indicated the build up and maintenance of soil fertility due to soil test based fertilizer recommendation under IPNS. The fertilizer prescription equations developed for rainfed maize under IPNS can be recommended for red non calcareous soils of Tamil Nadu for achieving the yield target of 5.0 t ha-1 with sustained soil fertility and it can be extrapolated to other agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu on similar and allied soil types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Comunicata Scientiae is the property of Comunicata Scientiae and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Soil microorganisms, especially rhizobacteria, play a key role in soil phosphorus (P) dynamics and the subsequent availability of phosphate to plants. Utilization of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria as biofertilizers instead of synthetic chemicals is known to improve plant growth through the supply of plant nutrients, and may help to sustain environmental health and soil productivity. The main purpose of this study was to identify new phosphate-solubilizing bacteria isolated from runner bean rhizosphere. Ten out of 25 isolated bacterial strains solubilized Ca3(PO4)2 in qualitative and quantitative P-solubilization. The strain that exhibited the highest potential to solubilize Ca3(PO4)2, was selected for further determination of the mechanisms involved in the process. The medium pH was measured, organic acids released in the culture medium were identified by HPLC analysis, and the acid and alkaline phosphatase activities were determined. Our results showed that strain R7 solubilized phosphorous through the production of various organic acids such as lactic, isocitric, tartaric and pyruvic acids, and that it can be used as a potential biofertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To maintain grassland productivity and limit resource depletion, scarce mineral P (phosphorus) fertilizers must be replaced by alternative P sources. The effect of these amendments on plant growth may depend on physicochemical soil parameters, in particular pH. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of soil pH on biomass production, P use efficiency, and soil P forms after P amendment application (100 mg kg−1 P) using poultry manure compost (PM), rock phosphate (RP), and their combination (PMRP). We performed a growth chamber experiment with ryegrass plants (Lolium perenne) grown on two soil types with contrasting pH under controlled conditions for 7 weeks. Chemical P fractions, biomass production, and P concentrations were measured to calculate plant uptake and P use efficiency. We found a strong synergistic effect on the available soil P, while antagonistic effects were observed for ryegrass production and P uptake. We conclude that although the combination of PM and RP has positive effects in terms of soil P availability, the combined effects of the mixture must be taken into account and further evaluated for different soil types and grassland plants to maximize synergistic effects and to minimize antagonistic ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]