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This study investigated the diversity among five introduced fig (Ficus carica L.) germplasm in Bangladesh, focusing on their morphological and physicochemical characteristics. The primary goal was to assess morphological variations, including their genetic potential for future improvement, and to examine their biochemical properties. The findings demonstrated significant variations in plant growth attributes, leaf characteristics, fruit traits, sensory attributes, and biochemical properties among the genotypes under study. Notably, two genotypes, Khurtamoni (KH) and Brown Turkey (BT), emerged as exceptional performers based on their combined pomological and nutritional characteristics compared to Golden Riverside (GRS), Egyptian‐2 (E‐2), and Saudi Yellow Arabia (SYA). However, KH displayed outstanding growth characteristics, excellent fruit attributes, including a remarkable fruit yield of 65.67 fruits per plant, and exceptional nutriomedicinal properties with a total phenolic content (TPC) of 8.03 mg GAE/100 g FW, a total flavonoid content (TFC) of 31.084 mg QE/100 g FW, and an IC50 value of 85.39 μg/ml. Besides, BT excelled in terms of taste, texture, juiciness, and various nutritional parameters with an ascorbic acid content of 4.4 mg/100 g, a TFC of 28.348 mg QE/100 g FW, and an IC50 value of 83.685 μg/ml. The genotype ranking, taking into account both morphological and biochemical characteristics, reveals the following order: KH > BT > GRS > SYA > E‐2 as per the principle component analysis. Consequently, the study identifies KH and BT as promising candidates for fig cultivation and breeding in Bangladesh due to their exceptional attributes. Furthermore, the genotype ranking offers valuable guidance for selecting germplasm for breeding programs and promoting sustainable fig cultivation in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] In order to provide a scientific basis for improving yield and quality of pear through nutrient optimization management in China, the current situation of farmers' conventional fertilization management and yield in pear producing area was clarified, and the effects of different nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5) and potassium (K₂O) fertilization measures on the yield and quality were studied. [Methods] The data of 112 journal articles published from 1992 to 2022 on the effect of optimal fertilization on pear yield and quality were integrated and analyzed to study the relationship between pear yield and N, P₂O, and K₂O application rates under conventional and optimal fertilization, and targeted fertilization suggestions were put forward for the main pear producing areas based on the yield effects. [Results] From a national perspective, the average yield of pear was 31 thm and the average amounts of N, P2O5 and K₂O application rates were 453,235 and 320 kg.hm² under conventional fertilization, while the nutrient inputs were relatively high and there were large differences between the main production areas. Compared with conventional fertilization, optimizing N, P2O5 and K₂O fertilization increased fruit soluble sugar content by 5.5%-7.3%, fruit shape index by 1.5%- 1.6%, and vitamin C content by 3.0%-3.4%, and decreased total acid by 3.6%-7.3% and peel firmness by 1.4%-2.2%. Meanwhile, reducing N, P2O5 and K₂O to a certain extent was helpful to increase the yield and quality of pears. Based on this, the appropriate application intervals of N, P2O5 and K₂O could be proposed for each main production area: the optimal input in the western producing area were 292.9-390.5 kg-hm-2, 113.1-169.6 kg.hm² and 71.0-106.4 kg.hm¯², respectively; the optimal inputs in the Yangtze River Basin producing area were 289.0-385.3 kg.hm², 221.7-277.1 kg.hm² and 158.7-238.0 kg.hm², respectively; the best inputs in the Circum-Bohai Sea producing area were 228.1-342.2 kg.hm², 113.9-170.8 kg.hm² and 261.6- 348.8 kg.hm², respectively; the best inputs of the old Yellow River producing area were 258.7-388.1 kg.hm²,164.1-218.8 -2 kg.hm², and 330.1-440.1 kg.hm², respectively. [Conclusions] Optimized fertilization could synergistically improve the yield and fruit quality of pear, and the targeted fertilization recommendations based on this will also help to achieve efficient, green and sustainable development of the main pear producing areas in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-stimulants are gaining importance for elevating the stagnated yield level resulting from continuous use of chemical fertilizers (CF) in many crops, however, their use in pomegranate have not been fully explored. Two years of field experiments were conducted on a 5-years old pomegranate cv. Bhagwa orchard to investigate the effects of different combinations of commercial bio-stimulant products namely, microbial-based product A containing consortium of Rhizophagus spp. (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract-based granular formulation D (30 kg ha−1) and liquid formulation B (625 and 1250 ml ha−1) through soil application as well as wettable granular formulation, C (1 and 2 g l−1) and liquid formulation, E (1 ml l−1) through foliar sprays along with chemical fertilizers on soil fertility, trees' nutrition, fruit yield and quality of pomegranate. Results showed that integrated use of CF and bio-stimulants significantly increased the number of bisexual flowers. However, the combination of microbial-based product A (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract based liquid formulation B (625 ml ha−1) in soil and foliar spary of seaweed extract based wettable granular formulation C (1–2 g l−1) with CF resulted in production of the highest fruit yield (increased by 41.97–51.61%) with 23.08–33.38% increase in the exportable grade fruit and improved quality attributes viz. ascorbic acid, anthocyanin, non-reducing sugar, protein, and mineral content of fruits through enhancement in soil fertility and trees' micronutrient status compared to only CF. These doses combinations of bio-stimulants along with CF gave rise to the highest benefit–cost ratio of 2.10–2.34:1 and hence can be recommended for sustainable pomegranate cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of wild kiwifruit (Actinidia callosa var. strigillosa) fruit samples from North Sikkim district of Sikkim state of Northeast India resulted in the identification of six promising female accessions, viz. SKNLA-11, SKNBC-01, SKNBC-02, SKNLC-02, SKNLC-07, and SKNZM-02. These selections exhibited significant variation in performance across desirable horticultural traits. Morphological parameters, including fruit weight (3.69–6.33 g), length (18.76- 26.71 mm), diameter (16.26- 19.76 mm), size (length × diameter) (342.56- 495.20 mm2), length-to-diameter ratio (1.03–1.57), stalk length (13.31–18.56 mm), and fruit yield (2.50- 8.50 Kg/vine), were assessed. Biochemical characteristics such as total soluble solids (17.20 −17.76 °B), titratable acidity (0.84–1.19%), total sugars (9.52–10.60%), reducing sugars (7.14–8.30%), non-reducing sugars (1.87–2.68%), sugar-acid ratio (8.26–11.33), ascorbic acid (31.20–41.60 mg/100g), and total phenols (33.31–94.88 mg GAE/100g) were examined. Sensory evaluation was carried out by a panel of judges, rating flavour (6.00–8.00), texture (5.40–8.20), aroma (5.80–8.50), taste (6.00–8.00) and overall acceptability (5.90–7.88) on a scale of 1 to 9. Notably, SKNBC-01, SKNLC-02, and SKNBC-02 excelled in overall acceptability. These selected accessions displayed significant variation in bloom date, anticipated harvest date, and harvesting period (in days). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out to determine the genetic variability parameters and character associations in thirty-two chilli genotypes. Based on mean performance, 11 genotypes were observed to be superior for marketable green fruit yield than the standard check varieties 'Him Palam Mirch-2' and DPCH-40-2. High to moderate estimates of PCV and GCV with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance were observed for marketable green fruits/plant, marketable green fruit yield/plant, total green fruits/plant and average green fruit weight. Marketable green fruit yield/ plant had positive and significant association with average green fruit weight, marketable green fruits/plant, total green fruits/plant, percent marketable green fruits/plant, ascorbic acid and capsaicin content. In view of direct and indirect contribution of component traits, selection on the basis of total fruits/plant and average green fruit weight would be a paying preposition for evolving high yielding genotypes for marketable green fruit yield. The present findings could be useful in selecting superior genotypes to achieve genetic gain and yield advantage in chilli breeding programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a large portion of the tropics, there is a demand for the development of hybrid chilies (Capsicum annuum L.) with high pungency, antioxidant vitamins, and tolerance to chili leaf curl virus, and anthracnose. Six genetically diverse parents were crossed in half-diallel fashion to develop 15 F1 hybrids to assess the level of heterosis, combining ability and gene action for 17 quantitative traits. The inheritance of most traits was apparently controlled by non-additive gene action. "Bidhan Chili 4" recorded the maximum, significant, GCA effects in a desired direction for PDIs of leaf curl virus and anthracnose along with commercially important traits. The maximum extent of heterobeltiosis was for oleoresin content followed by ascorbic acid and capsaicin contents, PDIs of chili leaf curl virus and anthracnose, and fruit yield per plant. The hybrids "Bidhan Chili 4 × Chili 38-Ragi" and "Pant C 1 × Bidhan Chili 4" could be isolated on the basis of their average performance, heterosis manifested in them, and SCA effects. Such hybrids could make a difference by meeting the horticultural requirements, high yield, disease tolerance and pungency, of commercial chili growing zones in the tropics. Hybrid vigor is available for commercial production of chili hybrids. A different approach from hybrid vigor is to isolate pure lines from segregating generations of potential heterotic F1s to increase fruit yield, quality attributes, and resistance to the chili leaf curl virus and anthracnose disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the yield and some quality characteristics of 20 beef tomato lines at the F6 stage. As a result, the total yield, average fruit weight, fruit length, and fruit width of the lines varied between 6.60-14.93 t/da, 200.80-384.00 g, 53.68-75.05 mm, and 71.95-98.29 mm respectively. Furthermore, it was found that the fruit flesh firmness values of the tomato lines used in the study varied between 0.41-1.32 kg/cm²; brix values between 6.10-9.60%; vitamin C values between 20.03-25.57 mg/100 g; total phenolic contents between 13.28-30.72 mg/100 g; lycopene contents between 4.69-9.68 mg/100 g and beta-carotene contents between 0.83-2.17 mg/100 g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was carried out in Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during April to June of 2022 to find out the best cultivars of this region. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments each replicated thrice. The ten years old seven cultivars (Cricket Ball, PKM-1, PKM-2, PKM-3, CO-1, CO-2 and CO-3) are planted in a square system in a spacing of 5×5 m². The maximum fruit weight was found in CO-1 (73.86 g) and followed by CO-2 (73.53 g). The longest fruit length and dimension were observed from CO-2 (7.00 cm and 5.07 cm respectively). The maximum pulp contains in the cultivar is CO-2 (69.58 g) followed by CO-1 (68.96 g). The maximum value of TSS was found in CO-2 (25.17 °Brix) followed by Cricket Ball (21.22 °Brix) and CO-3 (20.28 oBrix). The lowest acidity was recorded in CO-2 (0.12%) followed by CO-3 (0.16%) and CO-1 (0.20%). The cultivar CO-2 registered the highest values of ascorbic acid (62.85 mg 100 g-1), total sugar (16.78%), non-reducing sugar (6.44%) and TSS: acid ratio (209.72). It can be concluded that CO-2 appeared to be the best variety based on the fruit's physical and quality attributes. As this experiment was carried out based on a limited number of varieties, more research was required on the existing germplasm of India. That might be supported in sapota's future production, processing, and marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon fruit has a high nutritional value and significantly varies between pollination-constant astringent (PCA) and pollination-constant non-astringent (PCNA) persimmons. The astringency type affects sugar, flavonoids, and tannin accumulation and is well known in persimmon fruit. However, the impact of the fruit astringency type on ascorbic acid (AsA) accumulation is limited. In this study, typical PCA varieties ('Huojing' and 'Zhongshi5') and PCNA varieties ('Yohou' and 'Jiro') of persimmon fruit were sampled at four developing stages (S1–S4) to provide valuable information on AsA content variation in PCA and PCNA persimmon. Persimmon fruit is rich in ascorbic acid; the AsA content of the four varieties 'Zhongshi5', 'Huojing', 'Jiro', and 'Youhou' mature fruit reached 104.49, 48.69, 69.69, and 47.48 mg/100 g. Fruit of the same astringency type persimmon showed a similar AsA accumulation pattern. AsA content was significantly higher in PCA than PCNA fruit at S1–S3. The initial KEGG analysis of metabolites showed that galactose metabolism is the major biosynthetic pathway of AsA in persimmon fruit. There were significant differences in galactose pathway-related metabolite content in developing PCA and PCNA fruit, such as Lactose, D-Tagatose, and D-Sorbitol content in PCA being higher than that of PCNA. Combined gene expression and WGCNA analyses showed that the expression of the GME (evm.TU.contig4144.37) gene was higher in PCA-type than in PCNA-type fruit in S1–S3 and exhibited the highest correlation with AsA content (r = 690 **, p < 0.01). Four hub genes, including the DNA methylation gene, methyltransferase gene, F-box, and Actin-like Protein, were identified as potential regulators of the GME gene. These results provide basic information on how astringency types affect AsA accumulation and will provide valuable information for further investigation on AsA content variation in persimmon fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brinjal is a widely grown vegetables. A pot experiment was conducted to study the effect of farmyard manure (FYM), Zn and B application on fruit yield, their uptake and ascorbic acid contents of brinjal where two levels of FYM (no FYM and 5 Mg ha−1), four levels of Zn (no Zn, 5 kg Zn ha−1 as basal, 10 kg Zn ha−1 as basal and 5 kg Zn ha−1 as basal + foliar spray of Zn twice @ 0.5% ZnSO4.7 H2O) and three levels of B (no B, 1 and 2 kg B ha−1) were applied in a factorial controlled randomized design. Zn @ 10 kg ha−1 through basal and soil + foliar application enhanced the fruit yield over Zn @ 5 kg ha−1 and control. Foliar spraying of Zn and basal applied Zn enhanced the Zn uptake in fruits to 2.0–2.25 fold, while 2 kg B ha−1 application enhanced the uptake by B of two-fold irrespective of FYM application. A higher B use efficiency was recorded with 1 kg B ha−1 application than 2 kg B ha−1. Basal application of Zn and B, in addition to the foliar spray of Zn, is recommended to correct Zn and B deficiency in brinjal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of micronutrients namely zinc (Zn) and boron (B) with or without farmyard manure (FYM) on growth, yield and quality parameters viz. ascorbic acid and carotene content of tomato was evaluated. A field experiment was conducted with graded doses of Zn (soil and soil + foliar application) and B (soil application) application with or without FYM for the two consecutive years (2012 and 2013). Results revealed that application of Zn and B significantly enhanced fruit yield and different growth parameters as well as plant tissue concentration of Zn and B in tomato. The highest increase in fruit yield over control (27.6%) was observed with the conjoint application of Zn (soil + foliar), B (2.0 kg ha−1) and FYM. Soil application of Zn at higher doses (10 kg ha−1) as well as its application through both soil + foliar method has an edge over control or its application at comparatively lower doses in increasing the fruit yield of tomato. Results further revealed that combined application of Zn and B can significantly increase the important quality parameters viz. carotene and ascorbic acid content in tomato. Such increase in carotene content to the tune of 25 and 35% and ascorbic acid content to the tune of 7 and 30% over control were observed with soil + foliar application of Zn and 2 kg ha−1 B, respectively. Therefore, optimization of Zn and B doses can improve the yield and quality of tomato as well as helps in correcting the micronutrients malnutrition vis-à-vis nutritional disorders in humans by enriching the antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The bitter gourd fruit yields are not at a desirable level due to maleness. Maleness is one of the biggest difficulties with bitter gourd, reducing fruit yields substantially. On the other hand, plant stages are the most important consideration for PGR application because of their sensitive responsiveness. Therefore, it is necessary to determine how bitter gourd plants respond to plant growth regulators, namely PGR0 (control: application of water as control treatment), PGR1 (GA3-Gibberellic acid, 100 mgL−1), PGR2 (NAA-Naphthalene acetic acid, 100 mgL−1), and PGR3 (MH- Maleic hydrazide, 100 mgL−1) at three application phases, S1: soaking of seeds; S2: four-leaf; and S3: flower bud in terms of vegetative development, male–female flower sex alteration, and fruit features including bioactive compounds. Results: Physiological, floral and yield characteristics of bitter gourd exposed significant changes by GA3 and MH at various stages. The number of leaves plant−1, the fresh mass of the plant, and the fresh mass of fruit and fruit dry matter content were enhanced remarkably for MH application at the seed soaking stage except for plant height and the number of branches plant−1. MH increased the number of female flowers plant−1, the number of fruits plant−1 and the yield at the 4-leaf stage of application. PGRs substantially influenced the quantity of sugar, chlorophyll, total carotenoids, protein, and water content at various phases of their application but not on ascorbic acid, TSS, or total phenol concentration. Conclusions: For sex expression and yield attributes, 100 mgL−1 MH at the 4-leaf stage would be effective in bitter gourd. Exogenous NAA showed a considerable dual influence on plant development and antioxidant enzyme activity in bitter gourd fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted comprising of four widely divergent genetic materials of tomato viz. BCT- 111 rin possessing specific mutant genes and CLN B, Patharkutchi, BCT-53 are normal lines without possessing specific genes in Central Research Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India during autumn-winter (2018‒19 to 2019‒20) aimed to evaluate genotype level variation due to rin gene in both homozygous and heterozygous condition for different characters. Three hybrids viz. BCT-111 rin×CLN B, BCT-111 rin×Patharkuchi, BCT-111 rin×BCT-53 were developed involving BCT-111 rin and normal 3 genotypes. The seven genotypes including the parental lines and hybrids exhibited wide range of variations in different traits namely, plant height (84.59‒106.94 cm), number of days to first flowering after transplanting (25.7‒41.26), number of flower clusters plant-1 (18.21‒25.69), number of flowers cluster-1 (5.73‒8.48), number of fruits plant-1 (49.22‒76.02), fruit weight (37.89‒97.50 g), equatorial diameter (24.71‒52.60 mm), polar diameter (26.00‒47.81 mm), locule number fruit-1 (2.48‒3.96), pericarp thickness (4.94‒6.84), fruit yield plant-1 (2.93‒4.07 kg), total soluble solids (3.95‒6.21° brix), total sugar content (1.43‒3.47%), reducing sugar (1.21%‒2.58%), titratable acidity (0.36%‒0.64%), ascorbic acid content (25.66‒34.76 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight), lycopene content (0.38‒4.16 mg 100 g-1 fresh weight) and β-carotene (0.24‒0.60 µg 100 g-1 fresh weight). In the genotype possessing the ripening inhibitor rin gene in homozygous condition, fruit did not ripe and lycopene biosynthesis was severely reduced. However, in heterozygous condition, lycopene biosynthesis was almost normal which amply justified the possibility of utilizing the genotype possessing ripening inhibitor rin gene for development of commercial hybrids of tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An imbalanced nutrients status in the nutrient solution, i.e. poor nutrition of the plant, is often responsible for the low quantity and quality of strawberry fruit. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of different ratios of potassium to magnesium (K/Mg) (T1, 2:1, T2, 4:1, T3, 6:1 and T4, 8:1) on fruit yield and quality of strawberry cv. Albion under hydroponic conditions. Different K/Mg treatments did not have a significant effect on fruit yield and quality attributes such as ascorbic acid and total soluble solids. The highest fruit yield was obtained when plants were exposed to a 4:1 ratio (i.e. T2). Fruit quality attributes such as total anthocyanin, total antioxidant, total phenolic, total flavonoids, total chlorophyll, calcium, Mg, and K concentrations in the leaves and antioxidant enzymes activities were significantly affected by the K/Mg treatments. The highest total phenolic (925 mg/100g FW) and total flavonoids (163 mg/100g FW) were observed when plants grown in the presence of a 4:1 ratio (i.e. T2). Whereas, the highest antioxidant activity (89.2%) was detected in plants exposed to the 8:1 ratio (T4). The highest activity of guaiacol peroxidase (2.88 and 2.78 unit/g FW), ascorbate peroxidase (2.11 unit/g FW), and catalase (2.23 unit/g FW) were observed in T3 and T4, T4, and T4 treatments, respectively. It can be concluded that among the tested treatments, the 4:1 ratio of potassium:magnesium is optimal for the strawberry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To optimize the nutrient supply of strawberry, fertilization was reduced as much as possible on the premise of satisfying the elements needed for strawberry growth. This study put forward a modified nutrient solution formula (NM) by adjusting the ratios of N/K, K/Ca, NO3--N/NH4+-N in vegetative growth, flowering and fruiting, and fruit expanding stages based on Yamasaki strawberry nutrient solution formula (NY). Taking the NY as the control group, the NM was verified with elevated-grown 'Ssanta' strawberry using three different substrates (Vulcanics-added substrate, Horticultural substrate, Commercial substrate) in greenhouse. The results indicated that under the NM treatment, strawberry plants had better photosynthesis in the vegetative growth stage and flowering and fruiting stage, and the first crop yield and total crops yield per plant also increased by 20%. Although the vegetative growth stage was longer, it entered the full fruiting stage earlier so that the maturity stage was advanced one week. Compared to strawberries grown in horticultural substrate irrigated with NY, the fruit yield per plant of ‘Ssanta’ strawberry grown in horticultural substrate irrigated with NM increased by 26%, and the sugar-acid ratio and vitamin C content of primary fruits reached 10.6 and 74.1 mg/100g, improving by 41% and 34% respectively. Therefore, the NM based on the growth stage can optimize the element needs of strawberry in all growth and development stages and maintain the substrate's pH stability, improving the yield and quality of 'Ssanta' strawberry under substrate cultivation. Therefore, it is recommended to use the horticultural substrate irrigated with the modified nutrient solution for the ‘Ssanta’ strawberries cultivation elevated in greenhouse to improve the economic benefit of strawberry cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponic-producing selenium (Se)-biofortified vegetables in a greenhouse is a convenient and effective way to provide Se-enriched food and overcome hidden hunger. CO2 fertilization is commonly implemented to increase vegetable yield in greenhouse production. However, this application accompanies decreased mineral concentrations in the edible parts. Here we investigated the effects of [CO2] and Se supply on the growth, gas exchange, and cucumber fruit quality. A hydroponic experiment with two CO2 concentrations ([CO2]) (C1: 410, and C2: 1200 μmol mol−1) and four Se supply levels (Se0: 0, Se1: 0.125, Se2: 0.250, and Se3: 0.500 mg Se L−1) was carried out. A low level of Se supply (Se1: 0.125 mg Se L−1) protected the photosynthetic pigments and stimulated the stomatal opening, especially under [CO2] fertilization. It leads to a higher net photosynthesis rate (Pn) and transpiration rate (Tr) than other Se treatments. The most significant changes in dry weight, fruit yield, and soluble sugar concentration were also obtained in Se1 under CO2 fertilization due to the enhanced CO2 fixation. Meanwhile, the Se concentration in fruit was 0.63 mg kg−1 FW in C2Se1, with the highest Se accumulation and use efficiency. According to the recommended dietary allowance of 55 μg Se day−1 for adults, an intake of 87 g of cucumber grown in C2Se1 is sufficient. Because of the improved Tr and better root structure in Se1, the uptake of mineral nutrients through mass flow and interception was well maintained under CO2 fertilization. So, the concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, and Mn in cucumber fruits were not significantly decreased by elevated [CO2] in Se1. However, the concentrations of soluble proteins, S, Mg, Fe, and Zn in cucumber fruits in C2Se1 were lower than those in C1Se1, which was mainly attributed to the dilution effects under CO2 fertilization. Therefore, a selenite supply of 0.125 mg Se L−1 was found to be the optimal dosage for producing Se-enriched cucumber fruits with high yield and better qualities under CO2 fertilization (1200 μmol mol−1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic tomato cultivation is growing all over the world due to its healthy functional properties and environmental concerns. Recently, some new varieties with increased functional properties, particularly high lycopene, have been developed. However, few were assessed under organic farming systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate physico-chemical properties and the main bioactive compound contents, as well as lipophilic, hydrophilic and total radical scavenging activities of a recently developed high lycopene tomato variety homozygous for hp-2dg genes (HLT-F71) grown under organic conditions for two non-consecutive years (2019 and 2021) compared to the ordinary control 'Nemador' variety. The lycopene, β-carotene, total phenol, flavonoid, vitamin C, radical scavenging activity and tocopherols were analyzed by using spectrophotometric and HPLC methods, respectively. The high lycopene content variety presented suitable marketable yield, average fruit weight, pH, titratable acidity, firmness and higher °Brix, pulp color than the control. Additionally, it has significantly higher lycopene, β-carotene, total phenol, flavonoid, vitamin C and particularly considerable α-tocopherol contents, as well as radical scavenging activity. The high lycopene tomato variety with hp genes proved to be an effective sustainable variety for enhancing tomato fruit yield and functional properties even under organic grown conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was carried out at Thirumaraiyur village, Sattankulamtaluk, Thoothukudi district, to study the effect of organic amendments with the recommended dose of fertilizers on the growth and yield of watermelon in Ther isoil (red sand dunes) during the year 2017 and 2018. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with Factorial concept (FRBD). There were three factors as organic amendments with 6 treatment combinations for each factor, which were assigned at random in each plot with three replications. The recommended dose of fertilizers in treatments was two levels 75 and 100 percent. Among the treatment combinations, the tank silt application @ 100 t ha-1 with 100 per cent recommended fertilizer as 200:100:100 kg of NPK ha-1 through Fertigation at 7 days interval (A1N5) produced the maximum number of branches (10.67), longest vine (362.0 cm), number of fruits plant-1 (2.57), the weight of fruit (5.27 kg), fruit yield (68.77 t ha-1), total soluble solid (TSS) 10.94%), ascorbic acid (8.08 (mg 100g-1), gross return (4,09,320/ha), B:C ratio (2.45), uptake of NPK 41.51, 3.93 and 31.94 kg ha-1, respectively) compared to other treatments. Significant built-up of organic carbon (0.52%), available N (253.47 kg ha-1), P (16.40 kg ha-1) and K (218.40 kg ha-1) were registered with the application of tank silt application @ 100 t ha-1 with 100 per cent recommended fertilizer as 200:100:100 kg of NPK ha-1 through Fertigation at 7 days interval (A1N5). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recombination of commercially available hybrids could produce desirable segregants that act as sources of new alleles for tomato breeding. Seven commercial single cross (SC) hybrids of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) were crossed in a half diallel fashion to obtain 21 double cross hybrids (DC) to estimate combining ability, mode of gene action and extent of heterobeltiosis for fruit yield, processing qualities and tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) disease severity traits. Predominance of non-additive gene action occurred in the control for all characters except for total soluble solids (TSS) content in fruit that was conditioned by both additive and non-additive gene action. Improvement of most traits in DC hybrids over SC hybrids occurred. Maximum heterotic effect in DC hybrids was for vitamin C content followed by lycopene content, fruit yield per plant, titratable acidity content, number of fruit per plant and percent disease index of ToLCV. Two good combiners, 'PAN-1286' and 'Devi' among SC hybrids were identified based on general combining ability effects and average performance. Commercial exploitation of DC hybrids, 'TO-1458 × L-37' and 'NS-501 × TO-1458' following multilocational testing in the tropics and subtropics might be useful. High yielding, ToLCV disease tolerant DC hybrids could be exploited in segregating generations to identify elite multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The guava fruit plants produce heavy fruit yield during summer season but these plants then produce very little fruit yield during winter season due to low carbohydrates. To increase guava fruit production during winter season, this experiment 'effect of nitrogen doses (0, 75, 150 and 225 kg ha-1) and timing (September, October and November) on fruit quality of guava in winter' was conducted at farmer field of village, Gher Khan, District, Haripur during 2017-2018 with the objectives to optimize the appropriate dose of nitrogen and timing of application for growth and fruit quality of guava crop in winter. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with split plot arrangement and three replications. The experimental results revealed that highest ascorbic acid (207.59 mg 100g-1) was recorded in guava fruit tree treated with nitrogen in September. Trees treated with nitrogen in November produced fruits with maximum fruit firmness (1.90 kg cm-2) and titratable acidity (0.35%). Regarding nitrogen doses, maximum TSS-acid ratio (39.72%) and ascorbic acid (212.42 mg 100g-1) were observed in trees treated with 225 kg N ha-1. Maximum ascorbic acid (217.76 mg 100g-1) and reducing sugar (5.85%) were recorded in trees fertilized with 150 kg N ha-1 while maximum non-reducing sugar (4.80%) and TSS (10.55 oBrix) were observed in trees treated with 75 kg N ha-1. Interaction between nitrogen doses and its time of application significantly affected fruit firmness of guava fruit while TSS, ascorbic acid, TSS-acid ratio, reducing and non-reducing sugar was found non-significant. It is therefore concluded from results that optimum dose of urea as a source of nitrogen should be applied during the month of September at the rate of 150 kg ha-1 to guava fruit trees for better quality fruit production of winter season guava under the climatic condition of Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunhwa, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is low due to incorrect or use of no magnesium (Mg). An experiment was conducted from October to March 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 to determine the effective dose of Mg to improve yield and quality, and assess nutrient uptake and use efficiency of tomato. Treatments were magnesium at 0 (control), 4, 8, 12, or 16 kg·ha−1. Application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg produced the most fruit per plant (41.1), heaviest fruit (74.3 g), and greatest fruit yield (69.7 t∙ha−1). Vitamin C content in fruit was best (39.6 mg/100 g) with application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. The same treatment had the highest β-carotene (26.1 µg·g−1), improved fruit firmness (1.06 kilogram-force), and had better protein content (18.8%) in mature tomato fruit. Uptake of nutrients was best with 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. Recovery use efficiency of Mg was highest with 8 kg·ha−1 Mg. The best gross margin (48.6%) and benefit-cost ratio (3.11) was with 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. Application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg appears to improve the quantity, quality, and economics of tomatoes. Regression analysis indicated application of Mg @ 11.3 kg·ha−1 could be optimum to improve the yield of tomatoes under controlled field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• It is an annual type having densely foliaged with dark green broad leaves (54.5 cm long and 35.2 cm width), possessing drought tolerance.The plants grows up to 405.6 cm and spreads 330.2 cm (E-W) and 390.4 cm (N-S) (Table 1). • It is a comparatively late flowering and late maturing comes to harvest during March-May. Each plant produces about 314 fruits in a year, and its yield potential of 53–54.7t/ha. It is superior in fruit size and yield (185.6%) over PKM-1 (Table 3). • No fled infestation of leaf eating caterpillars and pods are least affected by fruit fly resulting higher per cent of marketable pods (20 and 30%) as compared to the commercially popular varieties like PKM-1 and PKM-2, respectively (Table 4). • This variety suits for table/export purpose due to uniformly parrot green and very long pod having more flesh content with seeds uniformly spaced. • It has high protein (9.3 g), vitamin A (9783IU) and vitamin C content (246 mg) per 100 g of fresh edible pods. It also have recorded highest antioxidants contents and activity viz. total phenols, total flavonoids, DPPH, FRAP and CUPRAC in pods as well as leaves as compared check (Table 7 & 8). • The proposed genotype recorded highest dry matter (85.84%), protein (10.25 mg/100 g), nitrogen, potassium, calcium (438.38), sulphur (4397.18), iron (44.6), zinc (3.79), manganese (20.55) and Cu (1.15) in (mg/100 g dry leaves powder) as compared to check(Fig 1, Table 5 & 6). The drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) variety Thar Harsha is an annual type having densely foliaged with dark green broad leaves (54.5 cm long and 35.2 cm width). The plants grows up to 405.6 cm and spreads 330.2 cm (E-W) and 390.4 cm (N-S). The fruiting in Thar Harsha starts late (March to May) as compared to PKM-1 (February-March). Each plant produces about 314 pods in a year, and its yield potential of 53–54.7t/ha. It is superior in pod size and yield (85.6%) over PKM-1. It has high protein (9.3 g), Vitamin A (9783IU) and Vitamin C content (246 mg) per 100 g of fresh edible pods. It have recorded comparatively higher antioxidants contents and activity viz. total phenols (657.69 and 36.23 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoids (406.28 and 298.46 CE mg/100 g), DPPH (29.07 and 21.53 µmol TE/g), FRAP (66.37 and 34.41 µmol TE/g)and CUPRAC (99.07 and 44.64 µmol TE/g) in leaves and pods, respectively. The variety Thar Harsha recorded comparatively highest dry matter (25.52 and 20.69%), protein (20.25 and 9.33 mg/100 g), nitrogen (3868.03 and 3653.16), phosphorus (187.91 and 113.60) potassium (1714.12 and 942.33), Calcium (4318.38 and 1983.15), Sulphur (4397.18 and 2038.49), Iron (44.6 and 32.76), Manganese (3.79 and 1.21), zinc (20.55 and 12.14) and Cu (1.15 and 0.83) in (mg/100 g dry powder) leaves and pods, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tomato is commonly treated as "Protective Food" as it contain high amounts of several nutritive compounds especially carotenoids such as lycopene and â carotene (Provitamin A), flavonoids, phenolic acids and ascorbic acid and minerals like calcium, iron and phosphorus. Development of high yielding varieties, genetic improvement and best selection are the basic outcome of a superior breeding programme. Therefore, a study was conducted out to analyze the combining ability for yield and yield contributing traits of tomato genotypes. Methods: This study analyzed the general combing ability (GCA) and specific combing ability (SCA) of tomato (Lycopersicon esculantum Mill.) including different breeding lines and landraces, which were grown during three seasons (March 2020, September 2020 and March 2021) with row to row and plant to plant spacing of 60 x 45 cm in randomized block designs (RBD) having three replications at the Agriculture research farm of Choudhary Chhotu Ram (PG) College, Muzaffarnagar U.P, India. Morpho-metric data were recorded on five competitive randomly selected plants in each line for sixteen traits. Result: Number of fruit per plant and fruits yield was governed by non-additive gene action suggesting the advancement of the generation for selection to improve these traits. The parents floradade, arka meghali and EC-164563 were estimated to be best combiners for the inclusion in further breeding programs. The cross EC-620406 x EC-528360, a product of good combiners was best performing and can be used to obtain superior recombinants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful seed production depends on the variety, the environment, and the agricultural practices. Limited information is available on the effects of green podpicking treatments on the production of seeds. Therefore, two-season field experiments were conducted in 2019 and 2020 to study the effects of four green fruit picking treatments (no green fruit picking ‘T1’, first two pickings ‘T2’, first 4 pickings ‘T3’, and first 6 pickings ‘T4’) and six varieties (Pusa Sawani ‘V1’, Emerald ‘V2’, Eskandarany ‘V3’, Baladi Assiut ‘V4’, Beghera Iraqi ‘V5’, and NOKH-1002 “F1 hybrid okra ‘V6’) on okra growth and seed yield and quality. The results of the experiment showed that okra plants of T1, followed by those treated with T2 had higher number of dry pods/plant, weight of pods/plant, and seed weight (kg/feddan), seed vitamin C, and pH in both seasons. Plants of T3 were significantly taller than T1 in both seasons. There were differential responses of the studied varieties to the picking treatments. Plants of ‘Eskandarany’ with no pickings, followed by ‘Emerald’ with two pickings always had higher number of dry pods, weight of pods/plant, and seed weight (kg/feddan). We can conclude that okra plants with no green fruit picking, as compared to two, four, and six fruit pickings, can be the best option for seed production due to the observed higher number of dry pods, weight of pods/plant, seed yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass proliferation and accumulation of the green macroalga Ulva reticulata are problems in coastal areas and affect other ecosystems, such as those involving seagrasses. In the absence of any intervention, the decomposition of these macroalgae over time can disrupt the balance of recipient ecosystems. Attention has been given to the potential use of U. reticulata as a supplier of nutrients for crop species such as tomatoes as a possible solution to the buildup of this unusable seaweed species, which is usually left to decompose in affected seagrass ecosystems; this is the case in the Merambong seagrass meadow in the Sungai Pulai estuary in Gelang Patah, southwestern Johor, Malaysia. We analyzed the macro- and micronutrient contents in U. reticulata to determine nutrient availability. We also performed greenhouse studies to test the effects of crude extracts from dried U. reticulata-Extract "A" and fresh U. reticulata-Extract "B" on plant growth, total yield, and quality vine-ripened fruits. Compared to other seaweed extracts used as plant growth promoters, U. reticulata extracts have higher nitrogen (N), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) contents. The application of 30% Extracts "A" and "B" and 50% Extracts "A" and "B" significantly affected tomato plant height. However, extract concentrations that promoted plant height and hastened flowering and fruiting did not increase total fruit yields. Both treatments that positively affected tomato plant height and hastened flowering and fruiting resulted in increased contents of total soluble solids (TSS), beta-carotene, lycopene, ascorbic acid and total titratable acidity (TTA) in the vine-ripened fruits. Agronomically, the application of 5% Extracts "A" and "B", 10%-20% Extracts "A" and "B", and 50% Extract "A" doubled the total yield compared to those of the control, and 40% Extract "A" resulted in the highest total fruit yield. In general, tomato plants responded well to Extract "A" than Extract "B" and presented good total fruit yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bombai' is a popular litchi variety of West Bengal but susceptible to fruit cracking which reduces the market price. Till now numbers of research trial conducted in litchi with different chemicals but reports on impact of application of brassinolide in reduction of fruit cracking maintaining quality attributes are limited. Therefore, an experiment was conducted during January-May of 2019-20 at the Experimental Farm of Horticultural Research station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidayala, Nadia, West Bengal, India to evaluate the effect of different dose of brassinolide on fruit yield, quality and reduction of cracking in litchi. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design comprising five treatments of brassinolide [T1: Brassinolide (0.5 mg l-1), T2: Brassinolide (1.0 mg l-1), T3: Brassinolide (1.5 mg l-1), T4: Brassinolide (2.0 mg l-1) and T5: Control (water spray)] with four replication/treatment. The solutions were applied two times; first before anthesis and another at 15 days after anthesis. Result revealed that brassinolide increased the number of fruits per panicle and significantly increased individual fruit weight, length, diameter, and yield. Among different treatments, brassinolides at 1 mg l-1 (two-time application i.e., 15 days before and after anthesis) is identified to be superior considering all qualitative aspects i.e., maximum fruit weight (26.40 g), fruit length (5.15 cm) and yield (95.88 kg plant-1). This treatment also exhibited maximum TSS (21.22°Brix), total sugar (14.11%), ascorbic acid (37.42 mg 100 g-1) and anthocyanin (23.13 mg 100 g-1) content with minimum (9.12%) fruit cracking. The control treatments registered minimum values for all parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out at Vegetable Research Station, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana State, India during kharif (June-October, 2014), rabi (October-February, 2014-15) and Summer (February-May, 2015) to assess the performance of genotypes in terms of yield as well as quality across seasons under wide range of environments through phenotypic stability studies. Thirty brinjal genotypes were evaluated for yield and quality parameters under three environments comprising of three different seasons. The portioning of environments + (genotypes × environments) mean squares showed that environments (linear) differed significantly and were quite diverse with regards to their effect on the performance of the genotypes for fruit yield and quality traits. A perusal of stability parameters indicated two genotypes C3 and P6 showed stable performance for earliness, C3 for days to first fruit harvest and C3, C10, C16, C21, P1 for days to last fruit harvest hence these genotypes were adapted to all types of environments. Among the stable hybrids, five hybrids C3, C11, C13, C16 and C21 were significantly more yield plant-1 and more number of marketable fruits plant -1 over the best check Chhaya. Whereas, for ascorbic acid content 5 hybrids i.e C2, C4, C11, C14 and C18 to be stable over the check Utkarsha. C3 was showed stable performance over best check Chhaya for the trait fruit and shoot borer infestation on shoots and four hybrids C3, C11, C13 and C21 were found to be stable for the trait fruit and shoot borer infetstation on fruits over the best check Chhaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) was conducted at PAU, Ludhiana with the objective of developing hybrids possessing combined resistance to late blight and leaf curl virus diseases along with desirable horticultural characteristics. The experimental material which included 32 F1 hybrids (developed by line × tester method), 12 parental lines (8 lines and 4 testers; including susceptible check Punjab Chhuhara) and standard check NS-524 were all planted in randomized complete block design with three replications. The values of s2SCA/s2GCA were more than unity for all the traits except average fruit weight and ascorbic acid content, indicating the predominance of nonadditive gene effects. Cross combinations CLN-154 × LBR-12 and CLN-154 × LBR-21 recorded significant heterosis over better parent and check for fruit yield and other quality characteristics. Artificial and natural screening was performed for all the experimental material against late blight and leaf curl virus diseases respectively. Out of 32 hybrids, crosses namely CLN-154× LBR-12, CLN-154 × LBR-21, PVB-1 × LBR-10, PVB-4 × LBR-12 and CLN-104 × LBR-10 were identified for combined disease resistance against late blight and leaf curl virus, in relation to desirable horticultural characteristics particularly fruit yield, average fruit weight, pericarp thickness, dry matter, titrable acidity and ascorbic acid content with fair amount of heterosis. Hence, the hybrids which displayed good potential in yield with acceptable performance of qualitative traits, along with combined disease resistance could be utilized for commercial exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of soilless substrate-based versus soil cultivation on overall fruit quality and yield in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) were studied using the tomato cv. Zhonghua Lvbao. Experiments for tomato soilless cultivation were carried out under greenhouse conditions. Plant growth, fruit quality and yield, and physiologic traits were observed. RNA-seq and RT-PCR, as well as metabolomic analyses were performed to examine the expressed genes and metabolites under soilless substrate cultivation. The results showed that the plant height, stem diameter, and chlorophyll contents of tomato under substrate-based cultivation were increased by 37.3%, 19.8%, and 15.3%, respectively, compared with soil cultivation system. Leaf photosynthetic and transpiration rates, stomatal conductance, and root vitality of tomato, under substrate-based cultivation, increased by 29.0%, 21.2%, 43.9%, and 84.5%, respectively, compared with soil cultivation. The yield reached 7177.5 kg/667 m2, and the relative yield increased by 10.1%, compared with soil cultivation. The contents of total soluble sugar, soluble solids, and vitamin C increased by 35.7%, 19.7%, and 18.2%, respectively, higher than those of soil cultivation in tomato fruits, while nitrate content and titratable acid decreased by 29.4% and 11.8%, respectively. Therefore, substrate-based-cultivation can increase production and improve tomato fruit quality and taste. We examined the expressed genes and metabolites to explore the molecular mechanism of plant growth and overall fruit quality improvement in substrate-based cultivation. A total of 476 differentially expressed genes were identified by transcriptomes profiling, of which 321 and 155 were significantly up- and down-regulated, respectively. The results of metabolomics analysis showed that 441 metabolites were detected, where 24 and 36 metabolites were up- and down-regulated, respectively. By combining analyses of transcriptomic and metabolic groups, genes and metabolites related to the fruit quality were mainly concentrated in the vitamin B6/ascorbic acid/aldonic acidmetabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolic pathways. Therefore, substrate-based cultivation can elevate vitamin and soluble sugar contents and the expression of fruit flavor related genes, which lays an initial background for exploring the mechanism of substrate-based cultivation, in order to improve the quality of tomato in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty five chilli genotypes were evaluated in a randomized block design at College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University, Hyderabad, Telangana state, India during Kharif, 2019 for seven months and at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Regional station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during Rabi 2019-20 for seven months to estimate genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as % of mean of seventeen yield and yield related traits. For all the traits studied, the magnitude of PCV was higher than corresponding GCV. High Phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation estimates were recorded for plant height, plant spread, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits plant-1, fruit weight, fruit yield plant-1, fruit yield plot-1, ascorbic acid, capsaicin content and capsanthin content indicating the existence of wider genetic variability for these traits in the genotypes studied. High heritability was recorded for the traits Days to first flowering, Fruit length, Fruit diameter, No. of fruits plant-1, Fruit weight, Fruit yield plant-1, Fruit yield plot-1, Ascorbic acid, Chlorophyll content, Capsaicin content and Capsanthin content. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as % mean indicates existence of additive gene action which was observed in fruit length, fruit diameter, number of fruits plant-1, fruit weight, fruit yield plant-1, fruit yield plot-1, ascorbic acid, chlorophyll content, capsaicin content and capsanthin content. Hence these traits can be improved by direct selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present experiment was performed at fruit orchard of Horticultural Research Station, Bahawalpur during 2016-18 to explore optimum concentration of urea causing deblossoming and defoliation in summer crop, subsequently improving fruit quality and production in winter crop of guava cv. ‘Surahi’. Five treatment combinations containing different concentrations of urea applications viz 0% (T0 =control), 09% (T1 ), 12% (T2 ), 15% (T3 ) and 18% (T4 ) which were applied twice fortnightly when summer crop attained 50% blooming. Percentages of flower drop, fruit drop, fruit set and defoliation as well as fruit weight, fruit length & diameter, total soluble solids, acidity, total sugars, ascorbic acid and yield per plant were recorded. Significant differences among treatment combinations were recorded in effect on each parameter during both years of study. Results from combined analysis of two-years data indicated that 15% urea spray on summer crop produced the highest yield (64.83 kg/plant), heavier fruit (203 g), bigger fruit size (length 9.3 cm & diameter 7.5cm), higher TSS (15o Brix), total sugars (7.1%) with minimum acidity (0.65%) in winter crop because of higher flower (75.5%) and fruit drop (41.5%), defoliation (25.8%) and less fruit set (17.7%) compared to non-target summer crop. High concentration of urea (18%) ranked 2nd with respect to fruit and yield parameters of winter crop but it led in flower dropping (80%), fruit dropping (46.8%), defoliation of summer crop (33%) and ascorbic acid (164.4 mg/100g pulp). Urea spray @ 15% proved the best for deblossomig and defoliation of summer crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The strawberry is an important commercial crop, the improvement of its yield and quality is an imperative task. OBJECTIVE: The present research aimed to study the effect of colored netting and foliar application of amino acids on the physiological characteristics of strawberries subjected to different irrigation intervals. METHODS: The study was carried out as a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three factors including colored net at 4 levels (no netting, green, red, and yellow netting), organic acids at 4 levels (control, humic acid, glutamine, and arginine), and three levels of irrigation intervals (2, 4, and 6 days) in the greenhouse of Lahijan Agricultural Research Station, Iran. RESULTS: The results showed that the highest leaf number, shoot weight, chlorophyll and carotenoid content were related to yellow netting. The highest fruit yield, anthocyanins, and flavonoids were observed in the treatments of no-netting, green netting, and red netting, respectively. Data for the effect of organic acids showed that the glutamine-treated plants exhibited the highest yield, the humic acid-treated plants displayed the highest anthocyanin and carotenoid content, and the arginine-treated plants demonstrated the highest vitamin C content. The irrigation interval of 6 days caused to the lowest leaf number, flower and fruit number, shoot weight, fruit yield, and carotenoid content. Data for the trilateral effect of 'netting×organic acid×irrigation' showed that the highest flower number and fruit yield were obtained from 'green netting×glutamine×4 days', the highest anthocyanin content was obtained from 'green netting×humic acid×2 days', and the highest chlorophyll content was obtained from 'green netting×control×6 days'. The treatment of 'yellow netting×control×2 days' was related to the highest flavonoid content. CONCLUSIONS: The application of colored nets provides the strawberry with more optimal vegetative and reproductive growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the response of banana to boron (B) fertilization, two field experiments (main and a confirmatory trial) were conducted during 2018 and 2019 seasons in B deficient soils (Typic Rhodustalf) of Theni district, Tamil Nadu, India. The treatments consisted of soil and foliar application of boron replicated thrice in a randomized block design using banana cv. Nendran as the test crop. The results of field experiments revealed that banana plants responded well to soil and foliar application of B compared to control (recommended NPK alone). Among the treatments, soil application of 10 g borax plant−1 each at 3rd, 5th and 7th month after planting (MAP) in combination with recommended NPK in B deficient soils increased the availability of B in soil, its uptake by plants and also B fractions in soils than the rest of the treatments which ultimately resulted in an increase in pseudostem height, pseudostem girth, leaf area index, chlorophyll, and dry matter production. Similarly, soil application of boron enhanced finger length, finger girth, individual finger weight, and bunch weight of banana and the cumulative effect of these yield attributes favorably increased the fruit yield of banana (33.85 t/ha), which was 25% higher than control. Banana fruit quality traits, namely, total soluble solids, total sugar, ascorbic acid, and starch content, were also favorably influenced by B application. Thus, the results clearly indicated that soil applied B recorded comparatively higher banana yield than foliar application and control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current experiment was done during the 2018 and 2019 seasons on 'Ewais' mango trees (Mangifera indica) grown in Research Station, El-Nubaria district, Egypt, to study the impact of spraying ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) and irrigation time on vegetative growth, yield and fruit quality. All experimental plants have been received the same care, i.e. control of pests & weeds, fertilization, and irrigation until the 1st week of October. The irrigation was adapted to apply 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week to control leaves damage due to low temperature after this period and the treatments included: (T1) Water spraying at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at the same time after four weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week (Control). (T2) Spraying with NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at the same time after four weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan /week. (T3) Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at 1st week of December after eight weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week. (T4) Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at 1st week of January after twelve weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week. All treatments received the same quantity of irrigation water, approximately 4000 m3/feddan/year. Results: All treatments (T2, T3 & T4) had a significant influence on vegetative growth, fruiting behavior (fruit set % & the yield), and the fruit quality compared with the control (T1). The significant was not only the fruit physical characteristics (weight, dimensions, volume, and specific gravity) but also the fruit chemical characteristics (total soluble solids % (T.S.S.), acidity %, T.S.S / acid ratio and vitamin C (L- ascorbic acid)). Conclusion: Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November plus start normal irrigation program at 1st week of November or December or January after 4 or 8 or 12 weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week (T2, T3, and T4) increased the vegetative growth, i.e. length of terminal shoots, No. leaves / terminal shoots & leaf area as well as the fruiting behavior such as fruit set percentage, No. fruits per tree & the tree production (kg/tree) and improved the fruit characteristics not only the fruit physical parameters but also the chemical properties in comparing with the untreated trees. During the two seasons, spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November plus start normal irrigation program at 1st week of January after 12 weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week (T4) is recommended since; it is the only treatment with the superiority effect on studied parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A greenhouse experiment was conducted at GKVK Bengaluru, Karnataka during 2013 to decide the best dilution of distillery spentwash to be utilized as a foliar spray for tomato crop. Results revealed that a foliar application of 1:5 dilution of distillery spentwash resulted in higher growth parameters compared to other dilutions. Based on greenhouse experiment results, a two year field experiment was conducted in a farmer's field at Mandya district, Karnataka during 2013 and 2014. Pooled analysis of two years of data (2013 and 2014) revealed that at 60 DAT, the treatment which received 100% RDF + 5 sprays of distillery spentwash at 1:5 dilution recorded significantly higher plant height (110.2 cm), SPAD meter reading (22.9) and higher fruit yield (7.14 kg plant−1 and 78.9 t ha−1) compared to other treatments. Lower plant height, SPAD reading and yield were recorded in the 100% RDF + water sprays (5 times). Also, significantly higher ascorbic acid content (54.2 mg 100–1) and lycopene content (14.0 mg 100–1) of tomato fruits were determined in the treatment receiving 100% RDF + 5 sprays of distillery spentwash at 1:5 dilution. After harvest of tomato crop, soil properties were higher in treatment which received 100% RDF + 5 sprays of undiluted distillery spentwash; but soil pH was higher in the treatment that received water spray. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study investigates the effects of humic acid concentration, its application methods as well as nitrogen ratios on the morphological, yield and biochemical characteristics of strawberry cv. Paros, during 2014–2015 in Ardabil Province, Iran. The study has been conducted within the framework of a double split plot randomized complete block design with three replications and density of 10 plants per replications. Different nitrogen levels (50, 100 and 150 kg ha−1) were examined in the main plots while application methods of humic acid (foliar and soil) and its different concentrations (0, 2, 4 and 6 kg ha−1) were considered in the subplots and sub-sub plots, respectively. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that the interaction effects of different concentrations of nitrogen, humic acid and its application methods are significant on most of the measured variables at 5% probability level. Mean comparisons showed that the highest values for the leaf area, fruit yield, chlorophyll a, carotenoids and titratable acidity are associated with the combined treatments of nitrogen and humic acid with concentrations of 100 kg ha−1 and 4 kg ha−1, respectively. In three-way interactions, the highest shoot and root biomass and total chlorophyll content were obtained from the application of 100 kg ha−1nitrogen and 4 kg ha−1 foliar humic acid, while the highest nitrogen and protein contents of leaf and root were achieved upon applying 2 kg ha−1 foliar humic acid and 150 kg ha−1 nitrogen. Moreover, the highest amounts of ascorbic acid and total soluble solids were found at a concentration level of 100 kg ha−1 nitrogen along with applying 2 and 6 kg ha−1 foliar and soil humic acids, respectively. Finally, the best results of most of the studied traits were observed at 100 kg ha−1 nitrogen and 4 kg ha−1 foliar humic acid application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Moringa oleifera Lam. (drumstick) belongs to the family Moringaceae that is originated from sub-Himalayan tracts of Northern India distributed worldwide in the tropics and sub-tropics. Immature pods and fresh leaves are widely used as vegetable and are rich source of minerals and vitamins. In the present work, we made an attempt to develop and use a set of RAPD-SCAR marker for the identification of superior germplasm of M. oleifera from the accessions collected from South India. Initially, 120 trees were surveyed based on total fruit yield, and single fruit weight from Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu states of India; 23 plants had 50% higher fruit yield and single fruit weight than average and were selected as Candidate Plus Trees (CPTs). On the basis of morphological and biochemical analysis, CPT17 was selected as elite germplasm. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis of CPTs indicated 89.61% polymorphism among 23 CPTs. These markers could be used in marker-assisted selection and breeding programs in M. oleifera. Further, an attempt to develop a set of RAPD-SCAR marker for the identification of superior germplasm of M. oleifera was made. RAPD primer OPA-19 (CAAACGTCGG) revealed a unique band (1500-bp) in CPT17. The specific RAPD band was recovered from the gel, cloned, and sequenced. BLAST analysis of the CPT17 specific sequences revealed that no considerable similarity with known protein. Based on these unique characterized sequences, specific primers for CPT17 were designed. Specific amplification profile of this primer proved it as a SCAR marker (F2R2) for CPT17 genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted during two successive seasons of 2018 and 2019 on Balady Mandarin trees, 20 years old budded on sour orange rootstock and planted at 5×5m apart. Grown at the productive farm located at Shandawel Island, Sohag governorate. This experiment aimed to study the effect of active dry yeast, ascorbic acid, vitamin B complex and their combination on yield components, alternate bearing and fruit quality of Balady Mandarin cultivar grown under Sohage conditions. The obtained results showed that using of active dry yeast at 10g/l (as soil application) as single application or in combination with ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex at 1g/l from each (foliar application) caused a pronounced increasing of fruit numbers, fruit weight (g) and yield (kg). The later also improved fruit quality in terms of TSS%, TSS/acid ratio as well as total sugars, vitamin C content and reducing total acidity of Balady Mandarin fruits. According to results of the current study it could be concluded that using active dry yeast at 10g/l (as soil application) as single treatment or in combination with spraying ascorbic acid (1g/l) plus vitamin B complex (1g/l) three times on the first week of May, July and September led to improve both yield and fruit quality of Balady Mandarin Cultivar under Sohage environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wide range of components, including amino acids, small peptides, and osmoactive substances (proline, glycine betaine), makes protein hydrolysate a promising biostimulant type, encouraging plant productivity both under smooth or adverse environmental conditions. Plantbased biostimulants can boost growth, yield, quality, and bioactive compounds in a variety of crops. The present study examined the effects of an enzymatic protein hydrolysate formulation (Activeg) applied different times (3, 6, or 9), compared to an untreated control, on production and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) 'miniplum' fruits grown in a greenhouse during the autumn-winter season. This study was carried out at the University of Federico II, Department of Agriculture (40°49' N, 14°20' E). A randomized complete block design was used to distribute the experimental treatments in the field; the obtained data were analyzed using ANOVA. The biostimulant applied 3 or 6 times led to the highest yields, whereas 6 or 9 sprayings enhanced fruit firmness, dry residue, soluble solids and antioxidants. The biostimulant treatment repeated 6 times resulted in the best overall tomato performances in terms of fruit yield, quality and antioxidant content, in the autumn-winter season, which suggests the chance to reduce the chemical fertilizer input, thus contributing to the vegetable crop system sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted at Horticultural Research Station, Bahawalpur, Pakistan to evaluate eight Ber varieties viz Pak-White, Umran, Anokhi, Sufan, Bahawal-Seedless, Yazman, Aakash and Moon under Cholistan climatic conditions during 2017-19. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 3 replications (2 plants of each variety planted at plant to plant and row to distance of 25 feet in square system during 2010 and nourished with same cultural practices). Data were recorded on tree height, stem girth, leaf length, leaf width, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight, stone weight, pulp ratio, total soluble solids, vitamin-C and yield per plant. From averages of 3 years, maximum tree height (7.8m), stem girth (1.9m), stone weight (2.3g), Vitamin-C (121mg/100g pulp) and yield were obtained by Pak White variety. Maximum leaf length (9 cm) and fruit diameter (3.7cm) was attained by Yazman variety. Maximum leaf width (6.1cm), pulp ratio (99%) alongwith minimum stone weight (0.1g), total soluble solids (12oBrix), Vitamin-C (98mg/100g pulp) and maximum yield (108kg/plant) were recorded by Bahawal Seedless. Umran had maximum fruit length (5.2cm) and Anokhi led in TSS (19oBrix). All varieties performed well under Cholistan condition and showed potential to be grown on marginal land for better economic return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Triacontanol mitigating the adverse effects of salinity stress. • Triacontanol mitigating oxidative stress. • Triacontanol promotes essential elements uptake and limits harmful ions accumulation. • Triacontanol application improves leaf water relations. Salt stress is a significant factor that leads to various detrimental effects on pomegranate trees. This study was undertaken with the primary objective of developing a treatment strategy aimed at mitigating the adverse impacts of salinity in fields, and its negative reflections on the post-harvest quality of pomegranate fruit. At the commencement of the study, we utilized response surface methodology (RSM) to assess a range of triacontanol (TRA) concentrations along with different spray frequencies. Our investigation revealed that applying 10 and 20 µM TRA three times proved to be the most effective treatments. Accordingly, the effect of these concentrations was studied in depth. The treatment with TRA at concentrations of 10 and 20 µM demonstrated significant positive effects. TRA effectively mitigated the harmful impacts of salinity, preserved the plant's nutrient and antioxidant content, and led to an increase in productivity. Moreover, TRA treatments had a notable effect on enhancing post-harvest storability of fruits during storage at 5 ̊C and 90 % RH for 12 weeks. TRA treatments resulted in higher concentrations of mineral nutrients (N, P, K, and Ca), porphyrin concentration, relative water contents, activities of CAT, POD, and SOD, glycine betaine, proline, amino acids, total phenolics, and total carbohydrates, additionally, TRA treatments led to increased fruit weight and fruit yield compared to the control group. Moreover, TRA treatments attained lower hydrogen peroxide, membrane permeability, malondialdehyde, Na, and Cl compared with control. Indeed, the positive effects of TRA treatments extended to fruit storability. TRA treatments resulted in a notable decrease in the percentage of decay, weight loss, and softness. Furthermore, TRA treatments demonstrated efficacy in preserving TSS, husk color, ascorbic acid, and anthocyanin content in the arils. These combined benefits highlight the potential of using TRA as a practical and effective method to alleviate salt stress and enhance pomegranate fruit storability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Eight cultivars belong to Prunus domestica L., P. insititia L. and Prunus × rossica Erem. were evaluated under Serbian conditions. • Twenty-four main agronomical and pomological traits were investigated. • Cultivar had the greatest influence on the tested traits, followed by year and interaction cultivar × years, respectively. • The best productivity had 'Metlaš', whereas superior fruit physico-chemical traits and antioxidant activity had 'Timočanka', 'Crvena Ranka' and 'Durancie'. • Multivariate analysis can be a very useful tool for segregating plum cultivars with the best yielding, fruit physico-chemical properties and antioxidant activity. From 2017 to 2022, tree growth, yield components, fruit quality attributes and antioxidant capacity of autochthonous and rare plum cultivars of different genetic origin were investigated. The research was carried out in the environmental conditions of Serbia in orchard where intensive horticultural measures were applied. The results showed a wide variability of the examined parameters among cultivars and among plum types. The 'Olenka' plum had the most vigor trees, whereas 'Saint Julien' had dwarf trees. The Serbian autochthonous plums 'Metlaš' and 'Crvena Ranka' had the best yield components (Y, CY, YE). 'Timočanka' had the highest FW and fruit size, whereas 'Metlaš' and 'Saint Julien' had the weakest fruit physical characteristics. Unexpectedly, 'Saint Julien' had the highest content of soluble solids, both ripening and sweetness indexes and RS. The highest and similar content of TS was found in the fruits of 'Crvena Ranka', 'Timočanka' and 'Obilnaya'. 'Crvena Ranka' and 'Obilnaya' had the highest content of N-RS. The Czech autochthonous cultivars 'Durancie' and 'Chrudimská' had a similar and highest content of vitamin C, while the highest TPC and TFC were found in the fruits of 'Metlaš' and 'Olenka', respectively. The highest amount of anthocyanins had 'Obilnaya', whereas the lowest had 'Saint Julien'. Fruits of 'Durancie' had the highest TAC, followed by 'Timočanka' and 'Obilnaya', whereas fruits of 'Olenka' had the poorest antioxidant power. Considering their overall performances, evaluated plums can be grown in production orchards for different purposes or can be an alternative to the leading commercial cultivars in similar ecological conditions. Also, they can be used for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Entropy weight method was used to determine the best water saving method for mango. • Sugarcane leaf mulching was significantly increased fruit yield and IWUE. • Sugarcane leaf mulching decreased the titratable acid by 31.3%. • Sugarcane leaf mulching with 50% ETC had the best fresh fruit quality. Rational application of field-management technology can not only improve mango (Mangifera indica L.) fresh fruit yield and quality but also improve irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE). However, few studies have involved the simultaneous use of mulch and irrigation-management techniques in hot and dry environments to achieve a relatively good level of performance. We used the entropy weight method (EWM) to explore an optimal mulching and irrigation-management technology for mango production in a dry hot environment. Three irrigation levels [FI, 100% mango evapotranspiration (ET C); DI 75 , 75% ET C ; DI 50 , 50% ET C ] were designed with (SM) and without (NM) sugarcane leaf mulching in 2018 and 2019 in a dry hot environment. The results showed that the photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, leaf water-use efficiency, and carboxylation efficiency in the SM treatment were 12.5% to 83.7% higher than those in the NM treatment in both years. Compared with the NM treatment, the SM treatment increased the fresh fruit yield and IWUE by 45.7% and 49.7% in 2018 and by 46.1% and 63.2% in 2019. The solid-to-acid ratio and sugar-to-acid ratio in the SM treatment were 48.5% and 50.4% higher than those in the NM treatment, respectively, but the titratable acid content decreased by 31.3%. Compared with FI, DI 75 increased carotenoid content, total soluble solids, solid-to-acid ratio and sugar-to-acid ratio by 8.4%–40.7%, while it reduced titratable acid by 22.8%. Compared with FI, DI 50 reduced fresh fruit yield by 24.3% and 21.9% in 2018 and 2019, respectively, while it increased IWUE by 13.6% and 17.7%. The fresh fruit yield of SMDI 75 was the highest, which was 1.42 and 1.44 times that of NMFI in both years, respectively. A comprehensive evaluation by EWM also showed that the SMDI 50 treatment had the highest comprehensive scores of mango yield, quality and water-use efficiency, which could provide a basis for the scientific management of mango fertiliser in dry and hot areas of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Selection of seven thermotolerant Italian tomatoes genotypes. • 'Lampião' and 'Fascínio' showed the highest plant production and number of fruit. • 'Candieiro' contains the highest lycopene and ascorbic acid contents. • 'Vedete' fruit is the best source of β-carotene. • The tasters preferred 'Fascinio' due to its aroma and flavor. High temperature is a limiting factor for the production and quality of tomato fruit, especially during the summer in tropical regions, when the cultivation must be carried out in a protected environment due to heavy rainfall. Thus, there is a need to identify cultivars adapted to these climatic conditions. In this study we aimed to carry out the selection of thermotolerant cultivars, adapted to protected cultivation, to combine characteristics of high yield, fruit quality, and consumer acceptance through principal component analysis (PCA). 'Fascínio', 'Lampião', 'Vedette', 'Tytanium', 'Candieiro', 'Mariana', and 'Shanty', grown under high temperatures (36 °C), differed in yield, physicochemical parameters of fruit (soluble solids, titratable acidity and ripening index), bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, lycopene, and β-carotene), and sensory analysis. According to the PCA, 'Fascínio' stood out due to its high yield characteristics (68.32 t ha−1), with a higher prevalence of large (38.6%) and medium (54.9%) fruit, sweeter fruit (4.33 °brix), and were preferred by the consumer, in addition to having thermotolerance and adaptation for the greenhouse. 'Candieiro' presented with the highest content of bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid: 45.31 mg/100 g and lycopene: 2.73 mg/100 g), attributes that add value to the fruit and may fulfill the needs of more demanding consumers. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]