Category: Vegetable Science

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Effect of Different Phosphorus Levels on Growth and Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Genotypes

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is a widely grown legume food crop of the tropics and sub-tropics. The crop is well adapted to poor fertility and low rainfall conditions. It is grown widely throughout the year for all forms tender pods, dry seeds, green manure and cover crops both as sole and inter crop. It improves soil fertility and physical structure and considered as a suitable crop in rotation even in dry lands.

Cow pea pods are good source of fibre, minerals, calcium and vitamins particularly vitamin A and vitamin C. The nutritive value of cow pea grain, leaves and haulm is very high. The crude protein content ranges from 22 to 30 % in the grain and leaves on a dry weight. However, there is insufficient research work on impact of phosphorus levels on cow pea genotypes under this agro-climatic region. Hence, the present study was conducted.

pic 1.#Cow pea during flowering in research plot

Legumes are phosphorus loving plants. They require phosphorus for growth and seed development and most especially in nitrogen fixation which is an energy-driving process. (Sanginga et al. 2000), but this is not achievable in the tropics because of low soil fertility and poor farming practices. Soil phosphorus or depletion of the phosphorus through cultivation. For sustainable food production to meet the increasing population in developing countries, the need for phosphorus fertiliser application is expected to increase (Brynes and Bumb, 1998).

However, even when phosphorus fertiliser are applied to replenish soil fertility, about 70 to 90 % of the phosphorus fertiliser are adsorbed and becomes locked in various soil Phosphorus compounds of low solubility without giving any immediate consideration to crop production (Holford, 1997). Phosphorus although not required in large quantities is critical to cow pea yield (particularly for improved photo period-insensitive cultivars) because of its multiples effects on nutrition. It not only increases seed yields but also nodulation (Singh et al ,2011).

Pic 2.# During weeding operation in cow pea

Some researchers also reported that phosphorus application influences the content of other nutrients in leaves and seed because of its multiple effects on plant nutrition Shilpa, (2013).

Multiple effect of phosphorus fertiliser is recommended to cow pea for;

  • Helps in nodule formation
  • Biosynthesis of chlorophyll
  • Nitrogen fixation it can fix up to 11-20 kg N/ha
  • Increase protein content.

Effect of geno-types and phosphorus levels on growth and growth attributes shows Rawati genotype was recorded maximum plant height (108.53 cm)and number of branches per plant(23.73).Baramasi genotype produced highest number of leaves per plant(87.6) with application of 40kg P2O5/ha. Maximum total dry matter accumulation (3746.41 kg/ha) observed by SB-2. In case of yield and yield all attributes show superior results in geno-type Baramasi with application of 60 kg P2O5/ha. Pod yield (5199.99 kg/ha) and seed yield (1303.72 kg/ha).

pic 3.#Cow pea crop on research plot with different treatments of doses of P2O5/ha.

Chlorophyll a and b content (0.98 mg/g) in leaves was present maximum in Baramasi var. with 60 kg P2O5/ha and chlorophyll content in pod (0.59 mg/g) was maximum in Baramasi with application of 40kg P2O5/ha. Ascorbic acid (1.63 mg/100g) content in pods of cowpea was recorded highest in geno-type SB-2.

Generally, as a legume crop protein content in cowpea seed is 22-25% and here Baramasi gave highest protein (21.37%) content with the application of 60 kg P2O5/ha (24.87%). Nutrient content of NPK in seed (%) was recorded in genotype Baramasi with 60kg P2O5/ha with highest Nitrogen (3.42%) in seed. Phosphorus content (3.12%) and potassium content(2.03%) in seed was recorded highest in genotype Rawati with 60 kg pP2O5/ha. Increasing phosphorus levels increases micro nutrients and heavy metals are reduced with similar results were reported by  (Ayeni 2017).

pic.4#Measuring pod length of three geno-types with different phosphate levels

Finally I can conclude with my research work  genotype Baramasi is giving highest yield with increasing application of phosphorus levels showing maximum effect on growth, development and yield with the application of 60 kg P2O5/ha respectively.

So It can be recommended to our farmers with application of 60 kg P2O5 per hectare will provide them highest yield in case of cowpea at Gajapati district of Odisha’s agro-climatic conditions.

Yerramsetty Sudha Rani

M.Sc. Horticulture(Vegetable Science)

MSSSOA,CUTM,Gajapati ,Odisha

Email: sudhayerramsetty081@gmail.com

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Evaluation Of Fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum-Graecum) Cultivars In Relation To Herbage And Seed Yield Under Prayagraj Agro-Climatic Condition

Fenugreek is an annual legume, diploid (2n=16) belongs to Fabaceae family originated in Central Asia. It was named Trigonella, from the Latin language that means “little triangle” due to its yellowish-white triangular flowers. Fenugreek (Trigonellafoenum-graecum) commonly known as “methi” is cultivated throughout India and other parts of the world for leafy vegetables, spices, medicinal purposes. Being a leguminous crop, it also increases the fertility of soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. It has been estimated that each year fenugreek fixed about 283 kg Nitrogen per hectare (Saxena and Ahmed,1983).

Although fenugreek is a dual-purpose crop, in our country, it is mainly cultivated as seed spices crops. The total area occupied by seed spices in our country is 84.77 lakh hectares. Out of this fenugreek is cultivated in about 0.30-lakh hectares of land producing 30,000 tonnes of seed. Out of which 3,000 tonnes are exported to countries like Saudi Arabia, Japan, Sri Lanka and the U.K. Peter (1999) reported that an income of Rs12 crore from the export of fenugreek product.

Prayagraj to situated at an elevation of 78 m from sea level at 25.85oN and 81.150E longitude comes under the subtropical region of India, due to its climatic conditions it experiences only local variety(Mundera). The winter temperature some time falls as low as 1-20C during December-January. While summer temperature rises as high as up to 46-470C in the month of May-June. The average rainfall is about 1000-1100 mm during the rainy season. The soil of the Prayagraj is clay loam which is enriched with nutrients and also good for the cultivation of most of the vegetable crops. And thus this soil type provides a suitable environment for the growth of microorganisms and suitable for the use of bio-fertilizers. Being a sub-tropical region, it experiences a hot dry summer with a maximum temperature of 480C.

Pic.1:#Local varieties of fenugreek seeds available in India

Fenugreek seeds contain a substantial amount of fiber, phospholipids, glycolipids, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linoleic acid, choline, vitamin A, B1, B2, C, nicotinic acid, niacin, and many other functional elements. Fenugreek seeds are a rich source of fiber (50-65 g/100g) mainly non-starch polysaccharides. Medicinally, fenugreek fiber is capable of moderating human glucose metabolism. The aroma of fenugreek seeds attributed to the presence of volatile oils. It is one of the oldest medicinal plants, its seeds, leaves, and even the whole plant are used to prepare powders and extracts for medicinal use. Fenugreek had been applied to embalm mummies and in incense in ancient Egypt.

Pic.2 :#Fenugreek Plants at flowering stage at Central Research Farm,Department of Hort.,SHUATS,Prayagraj,Uttar Pradesh

Seeds of fenugreek were traditionally used as a remedy for diabetes in many Asian and African civilizations. Cancer is one of the leading causes of mortality all around the world. Many reported studies have shown the protective effect of fenugreek seeds in experimental models of cancer using cell lines or experimental animals.

Raw and roasted fenugreek seeds added to a mixture of straw and concentrate in the ratio 60:40 resulted in both cases in higher in vitro gas production and lower methane emissions. It was concluded that 2% of raw or roasted seeds of fenugreek had the potential to reduce methane emissions from ruminants and to improve DM digestibility (Rejil et al., 2007). Fenugreek green leaves are one of the most ancient medicinal herbs containing β-carotene (19 mg/100 g), ascorbate (220 mg/100 g) (Thomas et al., 2011), fiber, iron, calcium, and zinc even more than the regular food items (Muralidhara et al., 1999).

Pic.3 :#Kasuri Methi at Central Research Farm,Department of Hort.,SHUATS,Prayagraj,Uttar

Kasuri Methi is morphologically different from other methi varieties. The scientific name of Kasuri methi is “Trigonella corniculata”. It provides numerous health benefits and is a regular feature in vegetarian cuisine. Kasuri Methi is generally used as a condiment for flavoring various curries and sabzis. Regular consumption of Kasuri methi helps keep cholesterol levels in check. Dry leaves of Kasuri methi are rich in protein, iron, and vitamin A and widely used as spice and herb in food preparation. It helps in relieving gastric, digestion, and intestine related problems.

Pic.4 :# Different farmer’s varieties of fenugreek taken under the research trial after harvesting

Fenugreek leaves help in keeping the body’s blood lipids at the normal levels. It helps in controlling the metabolism of glucose and hence prevents type-2 diabetes. Kasuri methi helps to reduce platelet formation which in turn prevents blood clotting in the heart. Helps fight against kidney problems as well as mouth ulcers and boils. Kasuri Methi is used in different parts of the country as an ingredient for herbal tea. Applying a paste out of fenugreek powder helps to get rid of skin blemishes. Dried fenugreek leaves are known for delaying the premature graying of the hair. By applying it externally and thoroughly massaging it over the scalp, Kasuri Methi can help the scalp and follicles retain their pigmentation.

Pic.5 # Harvested farmer’s varieties of fenugreek under the research trial

This study will be undertaken to estimate the herbage and seed yield of fenugreek varieties from Southern India. However, fenugreek is commonly grown in Prayagraj region, but southern cultivars have not experimented. Through this varietal trial, other varieties that may have higher yield potential will be evaluated, which may also significantly increase farmer’s income. The seed also has a higher commercial value which will add to farmer’s income significantly, as farmers’ practice is to get herbage yield only. Thus the evaluation of different varieties from Southern India is necessary to identify the best varieties in terms of herbage as well as seed yield. So the proper evaluation of varieties is essential for understanding potentially for large-area production of both herbage and seed under the Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions.

Imandi Santhoshi Reshma Madhuri

M.Sc. Horticulture(Vegetable Science)

SHUATS, Prayagraj,Uttar Pradesh

email@reshma.imandi@gmail.com

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The Concept of Organic Kitchen Garden by Abhinavakrishi Research Organisation Sambalpur Odisha

Ashutosh Chattar
MSc Floriculture student
OUAT, Bhubaneswar

Importance of kitchen Garden

Kitchen garden is advice to grow vegetables on a small plot of land. It is delightful hobby and can be pursued at homes or in school. Develop a taste for kitchen gardening and it will stay in your life.

The importance of a kitchen garden is great and manifold. A kitchen garden ensures an inexpensive, regular and handy supply of fresh vegetables which are basic to nutrition. The green vegetables contain vitamins and minerals which protect us against diseases. Lack of vegetables, particularly the green leafy vegetables, leads o malnutrition which causes diseases like anemia and night-blindness. Dark green leafy vegetables such as Palak and brown vegetables like carrots prevent blinding malnutrition.

Kitchen garden also helps us to solve our food problem. Apart from green and leafy vegetables, we can also grow several roots and tubers like potato, suran, goradu etc. which are similar to cereals and provide us heat and energy. These roots and tubers can be substituted to cereals.

Kitchen garden prevents pollution of air. It purifies the air through the plants. Plants breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen which is vital for our life,

In order to preserve health and prevent malnutrition, we should develop a kitchen garden; grow fresh and clean vegetables and make them a part of our daily diet.

Nutritional requirements of farming family

They supply nearly all of the vitamins and minerals required for good health. Vegetable contains fibre and a few of them, such as legumes, are great a source of plant protein. Vegetables have little or no fat, no cholesterol and are low in calories. Vegetables are nutrient dense.

Nutritional value of leafy vegetabls

Green leafy vegetables are vital for growth and good health as they contain all important nutrients.

In India, a wide range of greens are consumed. The most popular ones being Spinach, Amaranth, Gogu, Fenugreek, Drumstick leaves, Mint etc.,

Leafy vegetables are particularly rich in mineral nutrient and iron. Iron deficiency leads to anaemia, a common health problem among pregnant and lactating women and also children.

Inclusion of greens in daily diet would help prevent anaemia and promote good health.

Green leafy vegetables are also a rich source of Calcium, Beta carotene and Vitamin C.

In India, nearly 30,000 children under five years of age go blind every year due to  Vitamin A deficiency. Carotene in greens gets converted in the body to form Vitamin A which prevents blindness.

To preserve Vitamin C content in greens, prolonged cooking should be avoided, as this nutrient, which keeps gums in good condition is lost on overcooking.

Greens also contain some of the B-Complex Vitamins

Some Vegetable  crops variety and special characters for kitchen Garden

Nutritional and Medicinal properties of Drumstick

Drumstick pods and leaves are a storehouse of essential nutrients, whereas the leaves are the most nutrient part of the plant and one of the finest sources of calcium, iron, zinc, selenium and magnesium.  Fresh pods and seeds are a great source of oleic acid, a healthy fatty acid which is known to promote heart health. Moringa leaves is unique among all the greens as it is heaped with a good amount of protein about 9.8 gram of protein per 100 grams. Dry powdered leaves are an amazing source of good quality essential amino acids.

Drumstick is also referred as Moringa Oleifera. Phytonutrients are present in Drumsticks for preventing various conditions such as cancer, asthma, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, anemia, obesity and the phytonutrients improve immune system. The powdered leaves of drumstick also have health benefits related to allergies, stomach disorders, edema, eye protection, diabetes cure, hair care, healthy skin, bone health, cardiovascular health, wound healing.   It is also rich in antifungal and antibacterial properties that help to fight against infections.

Nutritional properties of Root vegetable

Cowpea:kashi kanchan

This is dwarf and bush type (height 50-60 cm), photo-insensitive, early flowering (40-45 days after sowing) and early picking (50-55 days after sowing) variety suitable for growing in both spring-summer and rainy seasons. Pods are about 30-35 cm long, dark green, soft, fleshy and free from parchment.

Palak:all green

Leaf colour of this spinach variety is lush green. Variety has good tolerance to diseases.

Radish:pusa chetki

Roots flesh is crispy with mild pungency. Roots are pure white in color. The shape is long, cylindrical. It is grown as a summer and monsoon crop from April September. Root length is 30 to 35 cm.

Cucumber:pusa udaya

Suitable for cultivation both in spring-summer and rainy seasons. Maturity 50-55 days. Average Yield 155 q/ha, which is 28% higher over check (Poinsette).

Bottle gourd:pusa Naveen

Fruits cylindrical, straight and free from crooked neck.  Average weight 550 g.

Drumstick:pkm-1

Plants grow to a height of 4-6 m and come to flower in 90-100 days after planting. The first harvest starts 160-170 days after planting and on an average each tree bears 200-225 fruits / year. Pods are 65-70 cm long with 6.3 cm girth and 150 g weight. Fruits are green coloured and highly pulpy.

Okra:Arka Anamika

 Plants tall well branched. Fruits lush green, tender and long. Fruits borne in two flushes. Purple pigment present on both sides of the petal base. Green stem with purple shade. Fruits free from spines having 5-6 ridges, delicate aroma. Good keeping and cooking qualities. Resistant to Yellow vein mosaic virus Duration 130-135 days. Yield 20 t/ha.

Chilli:pusa jwala

The most popular hot pepper grown all over India and used in most popular spicy foods in India. This long thin wrinkled chilli which ripen from light-green to red when ripe. If you love hot chilli then this one surely needs your attention. This will be your favorite and won’t stop growing anymore! I assure you the beautiful aroma of this green chilli will stay in your mind for a long time!

This is an ideal chilli for flavouring Indian curries. So taste your own Indian food at home!

They are very easy to grow & easy to maintain. This plant will continuously produce chilli for 5/6 months each year. Best time to sow seeds after frost. Seeds need minimum 20°C to germinate. With a proper care in frosty time this will survive up to 3 years.

Soak the seeds in water for a few hours before planting and sow them in 5mm deep in a sunny, well-drained position. Sow them indoor in warmer condition and transfer outside when mature enough to survive. Germinates between 3-5 weeks, depending on the weather condition.

Onion:Agrifound dark red

Bulbs are dark red,globular round in shape, 4-6 cm in size withtight skin and moderately pungent.Keeping quality of bulbs is good. They contain 130B total soluble solids, 14-15%dry matter and12.

Cauliflower:kashi Gobhi-25 Indian/tropical cauliflower, November maturity (first fortnight of November around 25 °C temperature). White compact and hemispherical curd free from riceyness, leafiness and fuzziness. Marketable curd weight 600-700 g and yield 25-28 t/ha.