Search

The article presents the results of a three-year field study that was conducted in Poland to evaluate the yield and quality of seeds and oil from traditional (SAM) and canola-quality white mustard (SAC) in response to different N fertilizer rates (0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg ha–1). Seed yields were 25% higher in SAM than SAC. The seeds of SAC contained more crude fat (by 3%) and crude fiber (by 6%) than the seeds of SAM. In turn, the seeds of SAM were a richer source of total protein (by 7%). The content of glucosinolates (GSLs) was 8–10 times lower in the seeds of SAC than SAM. The seeds of both mustard cultivars were most abundant in γ-tocopherol (γ-T) (90–94%). The seeds of SAC were characterized by a higher content of γ-T and a lower α-T/γ-T ratio than SAM seeds. White mustard oil contained mostly MUFAs (69–75%). However, C22:1 accounted for more than 50% of MUFAs in the oil SAM. In the oil SAC, the proportion of C22:1 did not exceed 6%, whereas C18:1 accounted for nearly 85% of total MUFAs. Nitrogen fertilization induced a significant increase in seed yields (by 33%), a decrease in crude fat content (by 3–4%), and an increase in total protein content (by 4%), and crude fiber content (by 7%). Nitrogen decreased GSL levels by 31% in SAM seeds. In SAC, N fertilization induced differences in the qualitative composition of GSLs, but did not affect the total GSL content of seeds. Higher N rates increased the content of α-T and γ-T, the α-T/γ-T ratio, and total T content. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the content of C18:3 in the seeds of the SAM. In SAC, the application of N decreased the content of C18, C18:1, and C18:3, and increased the biosynthesis of C18:2, C20:1, and C22:1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) can offer an alternative for staple food considering its tolerance to abiotic stresses and high seed quality. However, its cultivation in temperate regions has not been successful due to its photoperiod sensitivity and low seed yield. This study investigated the agronomical performance and quality traits of 48 accessions for cultivation in northern Europe. We conducted two-year field trials and phenotyped traits related to phenological development, plant architecture, yield components, seed quality, and disease resistance. The major determinants of seed yield in this study were days to flowering, days to maturity, thousand-kernel weight, and panicle density, while downy mildew susceptibility and stem lodging showed a negative correlation with seed yield. We developed a selection index to enable simultaneous selection based on different important agronomical traits. We evaluated the stability of different accessions over the two years of the experiment. Finally, we provided a list of 10 selected accessions that can be directly integrated and serve as new crossing parents in quinoa breeding programs for temperate regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Equidistant plant arrangements have shown positive impacts, in the United States over the last century, on soybean (Glycine max L.) yield and seed quality by reducing intraspecific plant competition and enhancing early canopy cover. This study aims to (i) assess the effects of equidistant versus non‐equidistant plant arrangements on soybean yield and seed quality across different regions in the United States; (ii) explore the effect of modified soybean plant canopy resulting from different plant arrangements on yield and seed quality. In 2021 and 2022, 13 trials were conducted in Kansas, Mississippi, and South Dakota. The treatments consisted of three equidistant plant arrangements of 13 cm × 13 cm, 15 cm × 15 cm, and 20 cm × 20 cm (620,000, 430,000, 242,363 seeds ha−1, respectively), and a non‐equidistant with 38 cm of row space (321,236 seeds ha−1). Soybean yield and yield components were collected, and canopy coverage (%) was monitored throughout the growing season. Overall, there is no evidence of any advantage of equidistant over non‐equidistant arrangements in soybeans. Yield differences related to spatial arrangement were observed in only three trials: the non‐equidistant increased yield compared to the 20 cm × 20 cm equidistant arrangement (lowest density) in two trials, while the 13 × 13 and 15 × 15 patterns (highest density) showed higher yield compared to the 20 cm × 20 cm arrangement in one trial. Furthermore, seed quality remained constant across spatial arrangements in the 13 trials. In contrast to prior research, our study found no correlation between canopy coverage development and yield improvement. The tested equidistant arrangement while promising did not provide substantial evidence of yield improvement relative to the non‐equidistant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted in the mid-hills region of Himachal Pradesh, India, during April, 2019-January, 2020, to evaluate various insect management strategies, including eco-friendly approaches, against Tuta absoluta and other pests on tomato crop. Six treatment modules were compared to untreated control plants. Among all treatments, T4, which included lambda cyhalothrin, indoxacarb, rynaxypyr and novaluron, was most effective, recording the lowest number of Tuta absoluta larvae (0.43) and leaf mines (0.75) plant-1. This treatment also showed the lowest populations of aphids (10.49), serpentine leaf miners (0.83), and fruit borers (1.28) plant-1. T4 significantly enhanced growth and yield parameters, with the highest number of flower clusters (7.73), fruits (29.36), healthy fruits (23.23) plant-1, seeds fruit-1 (87.73), 1000-seed weight (2.76 g), and seed yield (5.32 g plant-1, 63.84 g plot-1, 149.35 kg ha-1). Seed quality was also superior in T4, showing maximum germination (87.25%), seedling length (16.14 cm), dry weight (1.88 mg), seedling vigor indices I and II (1,412.57 and 164.71), and germination after accelerated ageing (75.25%). The enhanced performance can be attributed to the collaborated action of eco-friendly chemicals, which effectively reduced pest populations, allowing the plants to utilize their energy for growth and seed development. This study underscores the importance of integrated use of pest management strategies in optimizing tomato production, seed yield and quality, highlighting the possible benefits for agricultural economies. This study identifies an effective eco-friendly approach using specific insecticides to control Tuta absoluta and improve tomato yield and seed quality while minimizing environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Drought stress enhances cumin oil attributes, increasing essential oil percentage. • Synthetic cumin surpasses parental genotypes due to genetic mixing. • Enhanced drought tolerance observed in synthetic cumin, indicating superior resilience. • Synthetic cumin yields 27.84 % and 84.03 % more under different conditions. • Superior oil quality detected in synthetic cumin over parental genotypes. Climate change has intensified drought stress in plants, altering the chemical composition of medicinal plant seeds. Addressing the impact of drought stress is crucial, particularly for species like Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.), a valuable aromatic medicinal plant. Developing drought-tolerant varieties and comparing the quantity and quality with parent genotypes is essential. This study aimed to investigate the effects of drought stress on the quantitative and qualitative traits of cumin seeds, including the content and amount of oil and essence, essence chemical composition, fatty acids, and oil body number in a synthetic cumin variety compared to selected parent genotypes over two cropping seasons. Drought stress significantly decreased seed yield, essence yield, oil yield, and oil body number, while increasing essence and oil percentages and oil body size. The synthetic variety outperformed parent genotypes across all studied traits under both normal irrigation and drought stress conditions. The improvement in seed yield of the synthetic cultivar, compared to the average yield of the parental genotypes under normal irrigation conditions and drought stress, was estimated to be 27.84 % and 84.04 %, respectively. Linoleic (53.08–60.03 %) and oleic (28.67–31.52 %) acids were identified as primary fatty acids in cumin. Under drought stress, the synthetic variety showed increased Polyunsaturated fatty acids (31.77 %), while parent genotypes exhibited a decrease. In drought stress condition, the synthetic variety consistently displayed higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids, and superior fatty acid indices (AI = 0.06, TI = 0.35, h/ H = 26.57 and HPI= 12.63), indicating enhanced oil quality compared to parent genotypes. Among the essential compounds, the synthetic variety recorded the highest amount of Cuminaldehyde under both normal (64.58 %) and drought stress (71.03 %) conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the trade‐offs between improving turfgrass performance and seed production capacity would improve acceptance and accelerate the release of new perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) cultivars. An experiment was designed to measure the turfgrass quality, seed yield, and component traits among 20 perennial ryegrass entries grown in turfgrass and seed production swards at two locations in Minnesota, a seed production region of the United States. Turfgrass quality scores, when averaged across collection dates, were not strongly correlated with seed yield at either location. However, data from several individual turfgrass quality rating dates were moderately correlated with seed yield at both locations (p < 0.100). Within the dates that correlated with seed yield, turfgrass component traits were regressed against quality scores. Crown rust severity, color, and density were important in the first year, and winter injury and texture were important in the second year. Plots with more fertile tillers were associated with higher seed yield and lower turfgrass quality (p < 0.050), but there was no relationship between entries in the two growing environments for fertile tiller production (p > 0.250). Entries that exhibited a faster vertical growth rate in turfgrass swards tended to mature earlier in seed plots, a trait that was correlated with higher seed yield (p < 0.001). However, the vertical turfgrass growth rate was not directly correlated with seed yield (p > 0.800). Few tradeoffs between the growing environments were found under the growing conditions and germplasm employed. Core Ideas: Turfgrass quality and seed yield in perennial ryegrass need to be maintained for successful cultivar release.Twenty populations were grown in seed production and turfgrass environments to determine potential tradeoffs.Few tradeoffs between the environments were found under the growing conditions and germplasm employed.Future work is needed to determine genetic correlations between turfgrass performance and seed production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights experimental and field studies of the scientific problem of increasing the yield of soybean seeds by optimizing the main elements of growing technology. Improved standards for the depletion of major biological nutrients during the formation of units in soybean crops make it possible to specify the standards of foliar fertilization to obtain the planned levels of yield and removal of these elements from the soil. The obtained results are of practical importance, as they contribute to optimizing the nutrition of soybean plants due to the use of foliar fertilizers Ecoline Legume. This helps to increase seed yield to the level of 2.0–2.5 tons per hectare. The researchers also conducted a generalization and analysis of scientific results in the field of soybean yield management through foliar feeding. In addition, scientific publications on the influence of liming, application of organic, mineral and microfertilizers on the physicochemical and agrochemical properties of the soil were analyzed. The cultivation of soybeans and the rational application of foliar fertilization are economically beneficial methods, and in this case, the use of foliar fertilization Ecoline Legume to approximately neutral reaction of the soil environment contributed to obtaining the highest levels of conditional net profit and profitability. This confirms the high energy efficiency of soybean cultivation

Introduction: Environmental conditions play a prime role in the growth and development of plant species, exerting a significant influence on their reproductive capacity. Soybean is sensitive to high temperatures during flowering and seed developmental stages. Little is known about the combined environmental effect of temperature and CO2 on seed yield and quality and its future generation. Methods: A study was conducted to examine the effect of temperature (22/14°C (low), 30/22°C (optimum), and 38/30°C (high)), and CO2 (420 ppm (ambient; aCO2) and 720 ppm (elevated; eCO2)) on seed yield, quality, and transgenerational seedling vigor traits of soybean cultivars (DS25-1 and DS31-243) using Soil-Plant-Atmospheric-Research facility. Results: A significant temperature effect was recorded among yield and quality attributes. At high-temperature, the 100-seed weights of DS25-1 and DS31-243 declined by 40% and 24%, respectively, over the optimum temperature at aCO2. The harvest index of varieties reduced by 70% when exposed to high temperature under both aCO2 and eCO2, compared to the optimum temperature at aCO2. The seed oil (- 2%) and protein (8%) content altered when developed under high temperature under aCO2. Maximum sucrose (7.5%) and stachyose (3.8%) accumulation in seeds were observed when developed under low temperatures and eCO2. When the growing temperature increased from optimum to high, the seed oleic acids increased (63%), while linoleic and linolenic acids decreased (- 28% and - 43%, respectively). Significant temperature and CO2 effects were observed in progenies with the highest maximum seedling emergence (80%), lesser time to 50% emergence (5.5 days), and higher seedling vigor from parents grown at low-temperature treatment under eCO2. Discussion: Exposure of plants to 38/30°C was detrimental to soybean seed yield, and eCO2 levels did not compensate for this yield loss. The high temperature during seed developmental stages altered the chemical composition of the seed, leading to an increased content of monounsaturated fatty acids. The findings suggest that parental stress can significantly impact the development of offspring, indicating that epigenetic regulation or memory repose may be at play. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many parts of the world, solar radiation has decreased during the past 50 years due to industrialisation‐induced elevations in air aerosols which has negatively impacted crop productivity. Climate change threatens rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) production due to shade stress caused by reduced light radiation. However, studies on how shade affects photosynthetic mechanisms in rapeseed (leaves and pod wall) are not well documented. Understanding the mechanisms of shade on yield formation in rapeseed is important for breeding shade‐tolerant rapeseed varieties and optimising agricultural management practices in low‐light areas. Therefore, this study assesses the impacts of 'global dimming' simulated by shading at a specific period on rapeseed's photosynthetic behaviour, yield and seed quality. A two‐factor split‐plot design was arranged with three shading treatments (CK, FS and PS) and two hybrid genotypes (Chuannong and Zhongyouza) of rapeseed. We observed that shading at the flowering stage (FS) significantly inhibited the leaf area index, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency and enzymatic activities of both genotypes. Besides that, shading at pod development stage (PS) substantially declined the pod photosynthetic characteristics and transportation of carbohydrates towards economic organ (seeds) which directly decreased the yield of rapeseed. We found that PS treatment remarkably declined the oil content of both genotypes. According to the results, the photosynthetic capacity of rapeseed pod wall had a greater impact on yield and seed quality than leaves. Therefore, improving the photosynthetic capacity and material transport efficiency of the pod wall is a potential measure to increase the yield of rapeseed under shade stress. This study provides a new insight into the effects of shade on rapeseed production and provides a valuable reference for rapeseed breeding techniques to develop high‐yielding genotypes by enhancing the photosynthetic efficiency of rapeseed pod wall in low‐light conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article highlights experimental and field studies of the scientific problem of increasing the yield of soybean seeds by optimizing the main elements of growing technology. Improved standards for the depletion of major biological nutrients during the formation of units in soybean crops make it possible to specify the standards of foliar fertilization to obtain the planned levels of yield and removal of these elements from the soil. The obtained results are of practical importance, as they contribute to optimizing the nutrition of soybean plants due to the use of foliar fertilizers Ecoline Legume. This helps to increase seed yield to the level of 2.0-2.5 tons per hectare. The researchers also conducted a generalization and analysis of scientific results in the field of soybean yield management through foliar feeding. In addition, scientific publications on the influence of liming, application of organic, mineral and microfertilizers on the physicochemical and agrochemical properties of the soil were analyzed. The cultivation of soybeans and the rational application of foliar fertilization are economically beneficial methods, and in this case, the use of foliar fertilization Ecoline Legume to approximately neutral reaction of the soil environment contributed to obtaining the highest levels of conditional net profit and profitability. This confirms the high energy efficiency of soybean cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article describes the formation of seed yields and seed quality depending on the timing of sowing and seeding rates. On average, over three years, seed yields significantly decreased when sown at late sowing dates compared to the optimal date of September 25. The influence of the "sowing time" factor on seed yield was the largest and amounted to 86.6%, while the influence of the "seeding rate" factor was insignificant and amounted to only 4.3%. It was found that the germination energy and germination rate of seeds did not change significantly depending on the sowing date and seeding rate of winter wheat: when sown at the optimal time of September 25 with a seeding rate of 3 mln/ha, the germination energy was 96%, germination rate was 96%, and when sown later on October 5, these indicators were the same, and when sown on October 10, they were 92 and 95%, respectively. Depending on the seeding rates, the yield of winter wheat varied, but no significant difference was found within each sowing period. Seed quality -- germination energy and germination rate -- did not change significantly depending on the sowing date and seeding rate of winter wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study sought to determine the effects of foliar fertilization (FF) on both the quantity and quality of maize grains using principal component analysis (PCA). This chemometric approach enabled the selection of the best foliar treatment model for enhancing maize yield and quality. The results were analyzed via PCA, providing valuable insights into identifying the FF recipe with the greatest influence on maize grain production and quality. These field experiments were run during the time period 2020–2022 in the university's experimental field. Seven experimental variants with three repetitions were tested, including a control group and various FF formulations labeled V1 through V7, each with different chemical compositions. FF applications were conducted during specific vegetative phases of the maize, respectively, in stages 15–16 BBCH (5–6 unfolded leaves) and 20–22 BBCH (10–12 unfolded leaves), with application rates varying from 2 to 6 Lha1 according to the product's chemical properties. The application of FF treatments positively impacted both the production and quality of maize grains, as evidenced by specific quality indices such as moisture, protein, lipid, carbohydrate, fiber, and mineral content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urdbean leaf crinkle disease (ULCD) is one of the most devastating biotic stress factors which is responsible for drastic yield loss in urdbean [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. The etiology of ULCD is still unknown and there are conflicting reports on its transmission through seed, insect vectors, grafting and infected sap. Methods: Per cent seed transmission of ULCD had been studied during kharif, rabi and summer during the year 2019-2020 under natural and insect proof conditions. The effect on yield and seed quality parameters due to ULCD infection was studied. Urdbean cultivar VBN 8 was used in the present study. Result: The per cent seed transmission of ULCD was recorded ranging from 52.88 to 71.64% under natural conditions. In the insect proof glasshouse condition, the seed transmission was 83.62%. All the yield and seed quality parameters were adversely affected upon ULCD infection. The reduction in yield was recorded as 64.36% over the uninfected healthy plants. In ULCD infected seeds, the germination was reduced (84%) as compared to healthy seeds (92%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica carinata is an important and native oilseed crop in Ethiopia. The seed oil from B.carinata attracts global attention for its various industrial applications, mainly due to its high erucic acid levels and its superior agronomic traits. Since the demand for high erucic acid from oilseed brassica has been increasing in the world market due to its wider applications in bio-industries, the breeding target of B. carinata has recently been focused on enhancing its erucic acid. Several high erucic acid B. carinata genotypes have been screened from the pre-breeding activities. Such genotypes, however, need to be tested for their stable performance, for their erucic acid level, and other desirable traits under different environments. The aim of this study was to identify high erucic acid B. carinata genotypes with stable performance in multiple desirable traits. Thirty-two B. carinata genotypes were grown in a randomized complete block design with three replications at three locations for two years. The genotypes were evaluated for nine desirable traits related to seed oil quality (erucic acid and oil content), seed yield, and other agronomic traits. The results showed that the proportion of genotype by environment interaction (GEI) was clearly observed in erucic acid, which led to a stability and mean performance analysis for selecting the most stable and best-performing genotypes for the desired traits. For such an analysis, we used the multi-trait stability index (MTSI) along with the weighted average of absolute score BLUPs (WAASB). As revealed from the MTSI, five genotypes (G13, G18, G10, G22 and G5) were identified as the most stable in erucic acid, oil content, seed yield, and other agronomic traits. The selected genotypes showed on average 45.7% erucic acid, 3185 kg ha−1 seed yield and 45.1% oil content with 4.3%, 25.8% and 6.9% positive selection gain, respectively. The negative selection gain of phenological traits and the plant height of the selected genotypes revealed their early maturity and their lower probability of being affected by lodging. Our findings demonstrated MTSI can be used to select high erucic acid B. carinata with a set of desirable traits, which would facilitate breeding efforts in developing novel and high erucic acid B. carinata varieties. Our results also showed that MTSI is an effective tool for selecting genotypes across different environments due to its unique ability to select multiple traits simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Broadening the genetic base of canola (Brassica napus) is needed to develop improved hybrid cultivars. Wide genetic diversity is present in its parental species B. rapa and B. oleracea. In the case of B. rapa , the yellow sarson type from Asia is genetically distinct from all other types. Aims: The objective of this research was to investigate the prospect of using yellow sarson to improve the performance of hybrid canola cultivars. Methods: Inbred B. napus canola lines derived from an B. napus × B. rapa interspecific cross, and their F1 hybrids with the B. napus parent, as a tester, were compared on agronomic and seed quality traits; the inbreds were also evaluated for genetic diversity by using molecular markers. Key results: Seed yield of the hybrids was significantly greater than the inbreds and the B. napus parent and exhibited more than 15% mid-parent heterosis (MPH). Genetic diversity did not show significant correlation with seed yield in the inbred population; however, it showed a positive correlation with MPH. Inbred yield as well as MPH showed a positive correlation with hybrid yield. For other traits, the performance of the inbreds showed a significant positive correlation with the performance of the hybrids; the average MPH for these traits was low or close to zero. Conclusions: The yellow sarson gene pool showed great potential for use in the breeding of hybrid canola. Implications: The knowledge gained and germplasm developed from this research can be used by breeders and researchers to develop improved canola cultivars. To improve yield in canola, a wider gene pool is needed. We demonstrated that seed yield can be improved in inbred as well as hybrid canola using genes from the genetically distinct oilseed yellow sarson, a related species from Asia. The knowledge gained and germplasm developed from this research can be used by breeders and researchers to develop improved canola cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Jaipur during two consecutive rabi seasons of 2018–19 and 2019–20 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management and seed priming on seed yield and quality in quinoa. Experiment was laid out in a split plot design with twelve treatment combinations comprising four nutrient management practices i.e. no fertilizer (NM0), N45P23K30+2% FeSO4 (NM1), N45P23K30+2% DAP (NM2); and NC125+VC1250+PSB10+KSB10+AZ10 (NM3) as main-plot treatments and three pre-sowing seed priming technologies i.e. no seed priming (SP0), 1.5% Trichoderma harziannum (SP1) and, 20% Pseudomonas fluorescence (SP2) as sub-plot treatments. Results showed that application of NM2 and SP1 exhibited significantly higher plant height (19.5 and 7.2%), number of branches (40.5 and 11.6%), seed weight (12.9 and 4.6%), total dry matter (TDM) (30.5 and 3.9%), chlorophyll content (47.4 and 3.8%) and crude protein content (27.6 and 1.8%) over control. Cumulative effect of these parameters was exhibited in terms of highest yield potential (24.64 and 23.14q ha−1) (28.5 and 9.4% higher) and excellent seed/seedling quality and energy parameters along with highest net return (₹61974 and 55501 ha−1) and B:C ratio (2.55 and 2.22) over control. A positive significant correlation for seed yield was also observed with plant height (0.983), seed weight (0.990), TDM (0.955), chlorophyll content (0.950), protein content (0.946) and seed/seedling quality parameters. Overall, application of N45P23K30+2% DAP spray at pre-flowering stage along with pre-sowing seed priming with 1.5% Trichoderma harziannum is recommended as suitable strategy to improve yield and quality in quinoa under semi-arid conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The new generation special fertilizers have been introduced exclusively for foliar feeding and fertilization. The increased supply of nutrients and good response by plants resulted in enhanced translocation of nutrients to reproductive structures. Therefore, it is planned to study the effect of different nutrients as a foliar spray for growth, yield and seed quality parameters of hybrid pigeon pea. Methods: The experiment on effect of foliar spray of nutrients, growth regulators on seed yield, quality in hybrid pegionpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp] was conducted at Seed Farm, College of Agriculture, Vijayapura, Karnataka during kharif 2019-2020. The treatment consisting of foliar spray of control (T¹), 1% Pulse magic (T2), 1% 19:19:19 (T3), 0.2% Borax (T4), 50 ppm NAA (T5), 1% Pulse magic + 1%19:19:19 (T6), 1% Pulse magic+0.2% Borax (T7), 1% Pulse magic+50 ppm NAA (T8), 1% Pulse magic+1% 19:19:19 + 0.2% Borax (T9), 1% Pulse magic + 1% 19:19:19 + 50 ppm NAA (T10), 1% Pulse magic+1% 19:19:19 + 50 ppm NAA+0.2% Borax (T11). Foliar spray was taken at flower initiation and peak flowering stage. Result: The results revealed that, foliar application of Pulse magic @1% +19:19:19@1%+ NAA@50 ppm + Borax@0.2% recorded higher number of branches (10.60), number of pods per plant (239.33), number of seeds per plant (5.75), test weight (12.18g), hybrid seed yield per plant (48.17g), hybrid seed yield per plot (1188.83g), hybrid seed yield per ha (1499kg/ha) and seed quality parameters viz: seed germination (93%), shoot length (15.08 cm), root length (18.67 cm), seedling vigour index(2649), lower electric conductivity (0.59 dSm-1) and protein percentage (22.18 %) respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) fertilization significantly affect seed yield and quality in Brassica oilseed crops. The effect of N and S management on the crop parameters (plant height, stem-base diameter, and number of branches), yield (seed yield components, seed and straw yields, harvest index—HI), and the quality of the seeds and oil (crude fat—CF, total protein—TP, crude fiber—CFR, fatty acids profile—FA, acid detergent fiber; and neutral detergent fiber) of oilseed radish (Raphanus sativus L. var. oleiformis Pers.) was analyzed in the study. The effect of N and S fertilization was evaluated in a field experiment in Bałcyny (north-eastern Poland) in 2020–2022. The experiment had a split-plot design with two factors and three replications. The first factor was the N rate (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 kg ha−1) and the second factor was the S rate (0, 15, 30 kg ha−1). Nitrogen fertilization stimulated stem elongation and branching. The average oilseed radish (OSR) seed yield ranged from 0.59 to 1.15–1.25 Mg ha−1. Seed yields increased significantly, up to 90 kg N ha−1 and 15 kg S ha−1. The N fertilizer use efficiency (NFUE) of OSR decreased with a rise in the N rate (from 4.22 to 2.19 kg of seeds per 1 kg N). The application of S did not increase NFUE. The HI ranged from 10% (0–30 kg N ha−1) to 12% (60 kg N ha−1). The contents of CF, TP, and CFR in OSR seeds (kg−1 dry matter—DM) were 383–384 g, 244–249 g, and 97–103 g, respectively. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the CF content (by 5%) and increased the contents of TP (by 5%) and CFR (by 16%) in OSR seeds. Sulfur fertilizer applied at 30 kg ha−1 decreased the CF content (by 2%), but it did not alter the content of TP or CFR. Oilseed radish oil contained 68–70% of monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs) (erucic acid accounted for 2/3 of the total MUFAs), 24–25% of polyunsaturated FAs (PUFAs), and 6–8% of saturated FAs (SFAs). Nitrogen fertilization increased the proportions of SFAs and PUFAs in OSR oil. Nitrogen rates of 60–90 kg ha−1 increased the contents of alpha-tocopherol (α-T), beta-tocopherol (β-T), and gamma-tocopherol (γ-T) in OSR seeds by 32%, 40%, and 27%, respectively. Sulfur fertilization increased the content of PUFAs and decreased the content of MUFAs in OSR oil, while it increased the contents of α-T (by 15%) and γ-T (by 19%) in OSR seeds. Proper N and S management in OSR cultivation can improve crop productivity and the processing suitability of seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Background: Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) is a prominent seed crop grown in most of the northern part of India. It is also grown in different cropping systems where sowing time differs as per availability of vacant field prior to preceding crop. Being a rabi season (winter) crop its physiological as well as morphological developments are markedly influenced by temperature condition. Methods: An investigation was carried out during rabi season of 2010-11 and 2011-2012 at Oilseeds Research Farm, Kanpur (UP) with 4 sowing dates (30th Sept. 11th 21st, 31st Oct.) and 5 genotypes (Kranti, Maya, PAC-437, PBR-357, Rohini) of mustard on sandy loam soil under irrigated condition to study different physiological and yield attributing characters. Result: The results shown that among the sowing dates, 11th October registered the highest values of specific leaf weight (SLW), Crop Growth rate (CGR) estimated at 60-90 DAS, seed yield and oil content. The early sowing at 30th Sept. registered significantly lowest seed yield (1880 Kg ha-1) and seed oil content (38%). In case of genotypes, PAC-437 registered highest values of SLW (29.60 mg cm-2), NAR (113.3 mg dm-2 day-1), RGR (26.7 mg g-1 day-1), CGR (0.94g plant-1 day) at 60-90 DAS, seed yield (2079 kg ha-1). The interaction effect of sowing date X genotypes was found significant in most of the cases. Thus, the results concluded in Indian condition specially the northern part, 11th October proved to be the optimum sowing time of mustard. As far as the genotype is concerned, Kranti perform well of this date of sowing while PAC-437 proved its superiority over other genotypes as well as different sowings date of October month. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

The performance of seven Urochloa grass genotypes (three worldwide cultivars cv. Basilisk, cv. Piata, cv. Xaraes and four landrace cv. Adamaoua1, cv. Adamaoua2, cv. North1 and cv. North2) subjected to two cutting regimes (mid‐June cut and mid‐July cut) was evaluated for regrowth characteristics, seed yields, seed quality and herbage production in 2020 and 2021 cropping seasons at Wakwa, Ngaoundere, Cameroon. This divergence in harvesting practices raises concerns regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of forage utilization, as well as the potential impact on livestock productivity and sustainable farming systems. A split plot design with five replications and a 1‐year‐old sward was used for the study. In both years, genotypes were significantly different for plant height and tiller numbers at 12 weeks after cutting (P ≤ 0.007). In 2020, the dry matter yield (DMY) ranged between 8.78 t/ha (cv. Piata) and 12.75 t/ha (cv. Xaraes) for June cut regrowth and between 7.69 t/ha (cv. Piata) and 10.26 t/ha (cv. Xaraes) for July cut regrowth. In 2021, DMY ranged between 6.06 t/ha (Adamaoua2) and 13.95 t/ha (cv. Xaraes) for the June cut and between 6.55 t/ha (cv. Adamaoua2) and 10.47 t/ha (cv. Basilisk) for the July cut. For flowering behavior and seed yields, Basilisk flowered earliest while cv. Xaraes flowered latest. In 2020, seed yields were 74.80 kg/ha and 107.72 kg/ha for June cut and July cut regrowth, respectively, whereas in 2021, seed yields were 331 kg/ha and 431 kg/ha for June cut and July cut regrowth, respectively. cv. Adamaoua1 produced the highest seed yield in both years. The cutting regimes evaluated in this study were indifferent for DMY and seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black gram is a leguminous plant species. This pulse crop has been grown on the Indian subcontinent for a long time. Black gram a drought-resistant crop that grown both in the summer and the winter, usually in rotation with rice but occasionally in mixed farming. The objective of this research was to (i) quantify the short-term effects of high minimum temperature and enriched night CO2 (HMT and enCO2) on yield contribution factors and (ii) quantify seed quality parameters employing biochemical analysis. Methods: An investigation was carried out during summer 2021 and 2022 to evaluate the effect of high minimum temperature (ambient+3°C) and enriched night CO2 (600 ppm) (HMT and enCO2) on yield and seed quality parameters of black gram (Vigna mungo) under soil plant atmospheric research (SPAR) and ambient condition at Agro Climate Research Centre, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu with ten treatments which were replicated thrice. Result: Black gram yield and quality parameters were significantly (p=0.05) reduced under HMT and enCO2. Pooled data from two successive summer seasons revealed that stress from (i) 50 to 56 DAS (Days after sowing), the number of flowers dropped per plant significantly increased by 24% and pod setting percent decreased by 19.9% (ii) 43 to 49 DAS, grain yield and biomass/plant decreased by 25.4% and 16.2%, respectively. Seed quality parameters revealed that stress during 50 to 56 DAS, seed protein, total sugar content, polyphenols, calcium and iron decreased by 19.4%, 23.7%, 16.2%, 29.6% and 30.2%, respectively. The proline and phytic acid were statistically reduced by 53.9% and 59.1%, respectively stress during 50 to 56 DAS. Stress from 64 to 70 DAS, seed moisture content was significantly decreased by 32.1%. Overall, black gram yield and seed quality was negatively affected on two treatments: stress imposed from 43 to 49 DAS (T7) and stress imposed from 50 to 56 DAS (T8) (50% flowering to pod filling stage). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two field trials were conducted in Northern Thailand from 2018 to 2020 to determine the best manual harvesting method for maximizing seed yield and seed quality of two Urochloa ruziziensis cultivars, cv. OKI-1 and cv. Br-203. Four manual seed harvesting methods were implicated in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The four methods were as follows: knocking seeds from seedheads into a nylon net receptacle and collecting them once every day (T1); knocking seeds from seedheads into a nylon net receptacle and collecting them once every three days (T2); allowing ripe seeds to fall into a nylon net sheet that was stretched as a receptacle beneath the seedheads and collecting seeds once every five days (T3); and covering the tied seedheads with a nylon net bag and collecting seeds once every five days (T4). The highest pure seed yield was obtained from T3 in cv. Br-203 (333.11 kg/ha), as well as the highest trend in cv. OKI-1 (534.67 kg/ha). T3 produced 22–46% and 11–27% more pure germinated seed yields than the other methods in cv. Br-203 and cv. OKI-1, respectively. As a result, T3 was recommended for higher seed yield, convenient seed harvest, and reduced manual seed harvest time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paspalum guenoarum is a warm‐season perennial grass, with a caespitose growth habit. The species is native to southern Brazilian grasslands and has been used in interspecific hybridizations because of its high palatability, resistance to trampling and grazing, and cold tolerance. Previous studies reported improvements in forage production and the nutritive value of hybrid material. However, there are limited data about seed production and seed quality of these hybrids. The aim of this study was to quantify the optimal time to harvest seed of three Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum hybrids (08Q01, 104026, and 105052). Seed yield and seed quality were determined. Hybrids were harvested at 10, 20, and 30 days after flowering and evaluated for the components of seed yield, vigor, and viability. The optimum time to harvest was 20 days after the beginning of flowering. A >50% yield reduction, due to seed shattering, occurred when harvesting was delayed beyond 20 days. Harvesting <20 days after flowering resulted in a high percentage of empty spikelets and seeds with low vigor and viability. About 75% of the seed shattering took place 10–20 days after flowering, and for the 104026 and 105052 hybrids, >50% of seed was during this period. Hybrid 105052 had superior seed yield (2380 ± 280 kg ha−1) and similar seed quality. These two characteristics, among others, are the most important ones when recommending a new commercial cultivar for release. Core Ideas: Native grass seeds are vital for sustaining livestock productivity in southern Brazil.There is a gap between seed yield and seed quality due to the harvest time in Paspalum hybrids.Delayed harvesting can halve seed yield, while early harvesting affects seed quality.Hybrids of Paspalum plicatulum × P. guenoarum are promising candidates for commercial cultivars due to seed traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) is considered an orphan/underutilised grain legume with high yield and nutritive potential. It is variable in flower and seed coat (testa) colour and this variation could possibly be used as a biomarker in phenotypic selection for yield and quality traits. Three phenotypes differing in flower/testa colour (white flower‐white to creamy testa and white hilum [TWHW], slightly blue banner and wing colouration‐white to creamy testa and coloured halo around hilum [TWHC] and blue banner and wing colouration‐spotted testa and coloured halo around hilum [TSHC]) were tested over two growing seasons, under rainfed, Mediterranean conditions. They differed only in the number of seeds per pod; the phenotype TWHW had the lowest number (2.2 seeds pod−1). The seed yield per plant (SY) was highly correlated with the number of pods per plant and was higher under wetter and warmer conditions during the reproductive period (April–May). The three phenotypes showed no difference in tolerance against bruchid (Bruchus tristiculus) infection (F2,8 = 0.14, p >.05), which was higher in the most productive growing season (6.44%, F1,4 = 14.8, p <.05). In the phenotype TWHW, three seed classes (intact, bruchid‐damaged, parasitoid‐damaged seeds) were tested for SY, quality traits and tolerance to bruchids. Though insect damaged seeds showed significant reduction in emergence rates (from −57% up to −91%), there were no differences in SY (19.11–24.53 g plant−1, F2,8 = 0.86, p >.05) and yield components (seeds per pod, 1000‐seed weight, number of pods per plant). However, seeds of plants derived from parasitoid‐damaged seeds had higher concentration of the neurotoxin ODAP (4.92 mg g−1, F2,8 = 8.76, p <.01). On the other hand, seeds of plants derived from bruchid‐damaged seeds showed higher percentage of damaged seeds by the endoparasitoid Triaspis thoracica (2.25% vs. 0.67%–1.00%, F2,8 = 5.47, p <.05). Concluding, flower and testa colour cannot be used as biomarkers of seed yield and quality in grass pea, but it seemed that a tripartite interaction (grass pea–bruchid–endoparasitoid) may occur that affects ODAP concentration and the susceptibility of seeds to insect damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is to develop agrobiological fundamentals for intensifying the cultivation of innovative varieties of winter wheat in the conditions of the Right-Bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine, considering soil-climatic conditions and agrotechnical factors. The goal is to implement competitive innovative cultivation technologies for high-quality seed production of new environmentally adaptable soft winter wheat varieties with high genetic potential. Research methods include field evaluations of competitive winter wheat varieties, laboratory analysis to determine seed similarity and germination rates, and statistical data analysis. The variability of seed quality depends on various environmental factors and the complex of genetic traits of the variety. Decreased seed viability due to low temperatures, excessive rainfall during maturation, and non-compliance with technological elements can be explained by changes in the Nitrogen content of seeds, especially protein nitrogen, which disrupts metabolic processes in embryo cells. Intensive cultivation technologies have led to the highest seed and yield qualities of soft winter wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As in other soybean‐producing regions in the United States, planting date and maturity group (MG) are two of the most important factors, along with variety selection and timely harvest, that can set the stage to optimize soybean yield potential in Louisiana. Limited data are available on the effect of these factors along with harvest timing on soybean seed quality. Field studies evaluated the influence of planting date, MG, and harvest timing on soybean yield and seed quality at the Louisiana State University AgCenter Northeast, Macon Ridge, and Dean Lee Research Stations in 2018–2020. Soybean yield was optimized when MG 4 and 5 soybean varieties were planted between mid‐April and mid‐May. Earlier and later planting dates did not result in maximum yield. Planting date effects on seed quality, however, were negligible. Greatest soybean quality was obtained when planting relative maturities (RM) 5.4–6.0 soybean; however, as indicated in the planting date study, yield was not maximized. Planting RM 3.0–4.4 soybean varieties in Louisiana resulted in lower seed quality. Soybean varieties within RM 4.5–5.3 resulted in acceptable seed quality and maximum yield in Louisiana, assuming plants are harvested at the optimum harvest timing (when seed reaches 13% moisture) and not delayed 14–28 days. Core Ideas: Soybean yield in Louisiana was maximized using maturity groups 4 and 5.Soybean yield in Louisiana was maximized with planting between mid‐April and mid‐May.Soybean varieties within relative maturities 4.5–5.3 resulted in acceptable seed quality and maximum yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionEnvironmental conditions play a prime role in the growth and development of plant species, exerting a significant influence on their reproductive capacity. Soybean is sensitive to high temperatures during flowering and seed developmental stages. Little is known about the combined environmental effect of temperature and CO2 on seed yield and quality and its future generation.MethodsA study was conducted to examine the effect of temperature (22/14°C (low), 30/22°C (optimum), and 38/30°C (high)), and CO2 (420 ppm (ambient; aCO2) and 720 ppm (elevated; eCO2)) on seed yield, quality, and transgenerational seedling vigor traits of soybean cultivars (DS25-1 and DS31-243) using Soil-Plant-Atmospheric-Research facility.ResultsA significant temperature effect was recorded among yield and quality attributes. At high-temperature, the 100-seed weights of DS25-1 and DS31-243 declined by 40% and 24%, respectively, over the optimum temperature at aCO2. The harvest index of varieties reduced by 70% when exposed to high temperature under both aCO2 and eCO2, compared to the optimum temperature at aCO2. The seed oil (- 2%) and protein (8%) content altered when developed under high temperature under aCO2. Maximum sucrose (7.5%) and stachyose (3.8%) accumulation in seeds were observed when developed under low temperatures and eCO2. When the growing temperature increased from optimum to high, the seed oleic acids increased (63%), while linoleic and linolenic acids decreased (- 28% and - 43%, respectively). Significant temperature and CO2 effects were observed in progenies with the highest maximum seedling emergence (80%), lesser time to 50% emergence (5.5 days), and higher seedling vigor from parents grown at low-temperature treatment under eCO2.DiscussionExposure of plants to 38/30°C was detrimental to soybean seed yield, and eCO2 levels did not compensate for this yield loss. The high temperature during seed developmental stages altered the chemical composition of the seed, leading to an increased content of monounsaturated fatty acids. The findings suggest that parental stress can significantly impact the development of offspring, indicating that epigenetic regulation or memory repose may be at play.

Reduced grain and seed nutrient content in crops grown under elevated CO2 concentrations (eCO2) have raised concerns about future food security. Studies have reported that different seed elements responded differently to eCO2. Additionally, the nutrient response to eCO2 varied across species and cultivars. This study investigated the response of seed quality in two soybean cultivars (HS93‐4118 and Loda) previously shown to have different yield responses to eCO2. We show that seed quality responded differently to eCO2 for the two cultivars and that elements were differentially impacted. The strongest declines under eCO2 were observed for Al, Ca, Fe, and Se while P and Mn were unaffected. Seed protein content increased under eCO2 for the two cultivars. Oil content, however, showed a negative relationship with yield and declined under eCO2. Using path analysis, we show that eCO2 reduced the seed content for some elements through increasing seed yield, effectively diluting the elemental concentrations, while other elements were reduced in a yield‐independent manner. Despite the decline in the seed concentration for some elements, the overall yield per hectare of elements, protein, and oil under eCO2 increased because of greater seed yield. We quantified the economic impact of altered seed composition and show that the decline in oil content with increasing soybean yield at eCO2 could adversely impact profits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable variation among soybean genotypes has been observed in growth and yield adaptations to tropical environments. However, the response to daylength and, hence, different growth durations are confounding factors in most studies. In this study, we conducted field experiments in a tropical environment with daylength treatment to compare the crop performance of temperate and tropical cultivars with different daylength sensitivities in terms of biomass production, seed yield, and apparent seed quality. A tropical cultivar, 'Tanggamus', which has been highly productive in Indonesia, was grown for two years in a field at Bogor, Indonesia (lat. 6.5° S) with four cultivars from temperate regions. The proposed long-day treatment (LD) decreased the negative effects of short daylength in low-altitude areas on the vegetative growth and yield of soybean cultivars from temperate regions. With LD, the differences in the yield and above ground dry weight between temperate cultivars and 'Tanggamus' was less than without LD. However, the ratio of wrinkled seeds of temperate cultivars with LD was higher than that of 'Tanggamus'. There were differences in the seed-filling rate and the growth rate of pod plus seed during latter half of the seed-filling period between them, indicating a higher ability in the supply of assimilates to seeds under high-temperature conditions during the seed-filling stage. These results suggest that temperate cultivars remain to be improved in biomass and seed production under environments with higher temperatures than the climate where they are cultivated, and that 'Tanggamus' will be worth utilizing in breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Treatment of plants with mineral-organic concentrates has developed intensively in recent years. Fertilizers containing, among others, humus, L-amino acids, vitamins, chelates and metal complexes, macro-, micro- and meso-elements, organic matter and humic acids from the top organic layer of leonardite coal have a positive effect on plant growth and quality and seed yield. An experiment was conducted between 2019 and 2022 at the University of Agriculture in Kraków, in which the impact of mineral-organic concentrate on the seed yield and quality of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) 2N Bokser (Hodowla Roślin Grunwald Ltd. Grupa IHAR, Grunwa, Poland) was determined. As part of the experiment, plants were sprayed with a mineral-organic product in three different doses: 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 L·ha−1. The following parameters were examined: the number of generative shoots, the length of the flag leaf, seed yield, germination capacity and the weight of one thousand seeds. It turned out that the application of the concentrate with 3 L·ha−1 and 2 L·ha−1 led to a significant increase in the number of generative shoots and in seed yield, compared to control. In addition, seed germination capacity of fertilized plants was higher, with the greatest increase after the application of 3 L·ha−1. Moreover, the average weight of one thousand seeds was significantly higher in fertilized plants, compared to the control, and the largest increase was recorded in response to the highest dose. The results indicated a positive effect of the organic-mineral concentrate on perennial ryegrass development parameters and seed quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the potential of nanotechnology in improving redgram (pigeonpea) cultivation. It discusses how nanotechnology can enhance seed germination, crop productivity, disease management, nutrient delivery, and storability in redgram. The article also highlights the use of nanoparticles in seed storage and their potential benefits for human health. Overall, nanotechnology shows promise in revolutionizing redgram production and contributing to sustainable agriculture. However, further research and collaboration are needed to fully understand the environmental impacts and cost-effectiveness of nanotechnology in redgram agriculture. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Seed quality of fenugreek is determined by its primary metabolites and an alkaloid diosgenin. Apart from these fenugreek seeds contains total oil, saponins, carbohydrates, protein and major nutrients. Seeds are bitter in taste due to presence of an alkaloid “trigonelline”. In India, major cultivated area of fenugreek is still dependent on conserved moisture and moisture stress conditions reduces its productivity. Methods: A field experiment was carried out in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications during Rabi 2016-2017. Performance of ten fenugreek genotypes was evaluated on the basis of seed quality parameters under normal and water stress condition. Seed samples from both normal and water stressed plant were used for quality analysis in laboratory. Analysis of different quality parameters was done by using standard methods and protocol. Result: Water stress was found to increase seed total oil, saponins and diosgenine content in all the genotypes. Genotypes RMt-1, RMt-305 and RMt-143 were able to accumulate significantly higher total oil and diosgenine content in normal as well as water stress conditions. Water stress condition induced more saponins synthesis in genotype RMt-361 and RMt-351 while crude protein and total carbohydrate declined in all the genotypes. The minimum decrease in crude protein and carbohydrate due to water stress was recorded in genotype RMt-351 and genotypes Hisar Sonali respectively. Moisture was found to decrease in all the genotypes under influence of water stress conditions, minimum (13.75%) being observed in genotype RMt-305. Maximum seed yield was recorded in genotype RMt-361 both under normal as well as water stress conditions. Genotype RMt-1 had least reduction in yield under water stress condition (3.54%). Results suggested that a significant genotypic variation in seed quality parameters of fenugreek genotypes induced through stress may be utilize to introduce novelty of different purpose for developing new cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for soybeans as one of cereal commodities increases every year, however, to meet the production and demand level is still challenging in Indonesia. One of the causes of low soybean production is stress during cultivation, lack of nutrients, or poor quality of soybean seeds. One solution is to increase seed protection by coating the seeds with an environmentally friendly biological seed coating. This study aims to obtain the best biological seed coating for increasing soybean seed viability, vigor, and yield. The research was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture Experimental Station of Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor from August to November 2021. Two sets of experimental design were employed in this study, a Completely Randomized Design for the viability and vigor parameters in laboratory, and a Randomized Block Design with four replications for evaluation of the yield components in the field. The experiment was carried out with a combination of soybean cultivar and biological seed coating. The cultivars used in this study were Anjasmoro cv. (yellow) and Detam-4 cv. (black) and the biological seed coatings were B. subtilis, Trichoderma sp., and Rhizobium sp. Post-hoc test after F-test used Least Significance Different (LSD) with a significant level of 5%. The results showed that the application of the three biological seed coatings was not significantly affect seed physiological traits. However, the seed coating treatments increased the number of seeds per plant and seed weight per plant in yellow soybeans. Meanwhile, the application of B. subtilis and Rhizobium sp. in black soybeans increased the number of seeds per plant and the weight of seeds per plant. The best biological seed coating in this experiment was B. subtilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean red crown rot (RCR) is caused by the soilborne fungal pathogen Calonectria ilicicola. It causes root rot, leaf senescence, early defoliation, plant wilting and even death, often resulting in a severe reduction in seed yield and quality. C. ilicicola is an extremely difficult pathogen to control owing to its wide host range and long survival in soil and plant debris. Currently, no practically effective fungicide for this pathogen is available. Breeding for resistance is considered the most effective and environmentally acceptable means of disease management, but no C. ilicicola‐resistant soybean variety has yet been identified. Given this situation, it is necessary to promote our understanding of the mechanism of RCR incidence and the development of a comprehensive and sustainable RCR management strategy urgently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alfalfa, a crucial forage crop, encounters substantial challenges in seed production in semi-arid regions due to drought and soil salinization. To address this challenge, a five-year field experiment was conducted in northwestern China to evaluate the effects of subsurface drip irrigation (SSDI) at different drip line depths and with different irrigation time treatments on alfalfa seed yield, yield components, irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) and seed quality. The study indicated that SSDI at a depth of 10 cm resulted in a 48% increase in seed yield compared to surface drip irrigation and also obtained the highest IWUE with minimal soil disturbance. While irrigation during the branch, full bloom and pod set stages led to increasing for seed yield and IWUE, it was susceptible to climatic fluctuations during the growth period. Random forest modeling revealed that the timing and quantity of irrigation were key factors that determined yield components and seed yield. Climatic factors, specifically temperature and precipitation, played a significant role at each location. Irrigation time could have an effect on seed size, chlorophyll, and protein concentration analyzed by multispectral imaging. Linear discriminant analysis modeling indicated no significant difference in overall seed quality among the different irrigation time treatments, but prolonged seed maturation for the optimal irrigation time treatment. Therefore, installing the irrigation line at a depth of 10 cm and ensuring irrigation during the branching and full bloom stages were essential, while irrigation at the pod set stage was optional, for significantly improving the seed yield of alfalfa. RF model combined with the meteorology and irrigation management factors could determine key factors for the effect on seed yield. This research would provide valuable theoretical and practical insights for alfalfa seed production in semi-arid regions.

This study sought to determine the effects of foliar fertilization (FF) on both the quantity and quality of maize grains using principal component analysis (PCA). This chemometric approach enabled the selection of the best foliar treatment model for enhancing maize yield and quality. The results were analyzed via PCA, providing valuable insights into identifying the FF recipe with the greatest influence on maize grain production and quality. These field experiments were run during the time period 2020–2022 in the university’s experimental field. Seven experimental variants with three repetitions were tested, including a control group and various FF formulations labeled V1 through V7, each with different chemical compositions. FF applications were conducted during specific vegetative phases of the maize, respectively, in stages 15–16 BBCH (5–6 unfolded leaves) and 20–22 BBCH (10–12 unfolded leaves), with application rates varying from 2 to 6 Lha1 according to the product’s chemical properties. The application of FF treatments positively impacted both the production and quality of maize grains, as evidenced by specific quality indices such as moisture, protein, lipid, carbohydrate, fiber, and mineral content.

Rising temperatures impact different developmental stages of summer crops like mung bean, particularly during the crucial seed-filling stage. This study focused on twomung bean genotypes, categorized as heat-tolerant [HT] or heat-sensitive [HS]. These genotypes were grown in pots in an outdoor natural environment (average day/night temperature 36°C/24.3°C) until the onset of podding (40 days after sowing) and subsequently relocated to controlled-environment walk-in growth chambers for exposure to heat stress (42°C/30°C) or control conditions (35°C/25°C) until maturity. For all measured attributes, heat stress had a more pronounced effect on the HS genotype than on the HT genotype. Heat-stressed plants exhibited severe leaf damage, including membrane damage, reduced chlorophyll content, diminished chlorophyll fluorescence, and decreased leaf water content. Heat stress impeded the seed-filling rate and duration, decreasing starch, protein, fat, and mineral contents, with a notable decline in storage proteins. Heat stress disrupted the activities of several seed enzymes, inhibiting starch and sucrose accumulation and consequently decreasing individual seed weights and seed weight plant-1. This study revealed that heat stress during seed filling severely impairedmung bean seed yield and nutritional quality due to its impact on various stress-related traits in leaves and enzyme activities in seeds. Moreover, this research identified potential mechanisms related to heat tolerance in genotypes with contrasting heat sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study was aimed to identify the optimum harvest time in hybrid Maize COHM 8 for better seed yield and quality. Seed ability to produce vigorous seedlings is a significant characteristic of any productive crop. The ideal harvest time is one of the factors that contribute to high seed vigor. Methods: In this proposed study hybrid maize crop was raised at Agricultural Research Station, Veppanthattai, Perambalur District, Tamil Nadu during 2021-22 and seeds were harvested at five days intervals starting from 40 days after tasseling and evaluated for its vigour through cold test, accelerated aging test, seed leachate test etc in addition to germination test. Result: The seed moisture content was optimum in the seeds harvested at 50 days after tasseling. In the cold test, seeds harvested at 50 days after tasseling performed better (germination of 90%) than other days of harvest, whereas seeds harvested at 40 days after tasseling (germination of 50%) resulted least compared to other days of harvest. The vigour test and accelerated aging test revealed that seeds harvested at 50 days after tasseling reached germination of 90%, the required minimum germination as per the Indian minimum seed certification standards (IMSCS) on the 3rd day of accelerated aging against germination of 48% with seeds harvested after 40 days. Hence it can be concluded that seeds could be harvested between 50-55 days for the maize hybrid COHM 8. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, soybean (Glycine max L.) is an important protein-and oil-rich crop. Farmers much attention to ordered high seed quality, which is associated with many important agronomical traits and can arise in a 30% increase in crop yields. By boosting germination, the seed coating technique increment yield, and seed quality. Moreover, seed coating is a desirable option as a tool for boost establishment of crops by speeding up difficulties that systems of agriculture face. The purpose of the experiment was to contrast the efficacy of seventeen natural compounds seed coating treatments namely (T1) Control seed without coating, (T2) Seed coated with arabic gum, (T3) Water only, (T4) Indole butyric acid IBA 100 ppm, (T5) Kaolin 6%, (T6) Glycine betaine 100 ppm, (T7) Sorbitol 1%, (T8) IBA+ Kaolin, (T9) IBA+GB, (T10) IBA+ Sorbitol, (T11) Kaolin + GB, (T12) Kaolin + Sorbitol, (T13) GB + Sorbitol, (T14) IBA + Kaolin + GB, (T15) IBA + GB + Sorbitol, (T16) Kaolin + GB + Sorbitol, (T17) IBA+ Kaolin + GB + Sorbitol. Results revealed that high chlorophyll content and crop growth rate were achieved when seed coating with T15 and T17. The tallest plants were recorded at T6 while T8 and T14 achieved the heaviest seed weight, 100 seed weight, and number of pods per plant. T12 achieved a high number of seeds per plant. T8 recorded high seed yield per feddan, high germination percentage, and seedling dry weight, while T17 recorded the longest seedling length. T5 recorded high protein content and T15 achieved high carbohydrates and oil content. Thus, seed coating technologies enhance seed performance, and improve crop establishment, for sustainable agricultural systems. All seed-coating compounds are safe for both the environment and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field experiment was conducted during kharif 2020 at Seed Technology Research Centre, GKVK, Bengaluru to study the influence of nano-fertilizers on crop growth, seed yield and quality in groundnut. The experiment was laid under RCBD design with three replications and ten different doses of nano-fertilizer seed treatments (Nano P and Nano Zn + Fe). Among the treatments studied, the treatment [75% Zn + Fe (soil application) + seed coating of nano Zn + Fe @ 125 ml ha-1 (100% seed coating)] (T6) recorded highest growth and yield parameters viz., field emergence (94.66%), plant height at 30 DAS (8.2 cm) and harvest (32.01 cm), number of pods per plant (26.9), pod yield (14.85 q ha-1), shelling (75.00%) and SMK (88.40%) compared to control (83.63%, 6.27 cm, 25.90 cm, 14.7, 10.87 qha-1, 70.00% and 82.00%, respectively). Additionally, highest net returns (Rs.53568 ha-1) and B:C ratio (2.25:1) was noticed in the same treatment. The application of Zn + Fe in nano form enhanced the efficiency of nutrients and contributed to higher growth and yield. Hence, there is a possibility of enhancing the yield and net monetary returns of groundnut by treating the seeds with nano Zn + Fe @ 125 ml ha-1 (100% seed coating). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop production in dry areas is strongly affected by water shortage. In these regions, the application of water-absorbent materials is a useful strategy for sustainable crop production. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of two water preservative materials (WPM) on the growth and yield of sesame under two irrigation regimes. The experiment was carried out as factorial based on a randomized complete block design with three replications, during 2018 and 2019. Experimental factors were water availability levels (100 and 50% of sesame water requirement as normal and deficit irrigation, respectively) and application of WPM, including control (no-WPM), 125 kg ha-1 super absorbent polymer (SAP), 6200 kg ha-1 Zeolite (Z1), 11200 kg ha-1 Zeolite (Z2), SAP+Z1 and SAP+Z2. At the end of both growing seasons, vegetative growth parameters, yield components, seed and biological yields, water use efficiency and seed quality indices (oil and protein contents) were measured. The highest and the lowest amounts of vegetative parameters were obtained at SAP+Z2 under normal irrigation and control under deficit irrigation, respectively. Yield component indices were improved significantly by all WPM especially SAP+Z2 at both levels of irrigation. The highest seed yield was recorded by SAP+Z2 under normal irrigation (1304 and 1481 kg ha-1, for the first and the second growing seasons, respectively). The highest oil yield (749 and 843 kg ha-1, for the first and the second growing seasons, respectively) was gained at SAP+Z2 under normal irrigation, while its lowest value (125 and 136 kg ha-1, for the first and the second growing seasons, respectively) was obtained with no-WPM under deficit irrigation. Similar trend was observed for protein yield. Overall, despite yield reduction, deficit irrigation improved water use efficiency. Moreover, WPMs were useful to improve growth and yield of sesame under both irrigation regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carrot (Daucus carota L.) seed quality is affected by umbel position due to uneven maturation of carrot seeds produced in different umbel orders. However, keeping this in view, we tested whether seed quality could be improved with the suppression of tertiary umbels under exogenous auxin application. Using auxin-producing bacterial isolates, i.e., Bacillus sp. MN54, Enterobacter sp. MN17, Pantoea sp. MN34, and Burkholderia phytofirmans PsJN, the arrangements of carrot umbel order were evaluated in terms of quality carrot seed production. The results revealed that auxin production by plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria showed significant differences among measured growth indices, yield, and seed quality attributes. The selected endophytic strains co-applied with auxin via foliar application improved all growth- and yield-related traits, as well as the enzymatic activities of carrots. Noticeably, MN17+L-tryptophan and MN34+L-tryptophan effectively minimized the number of tertiary umbels by increasing the number of secondary umbels. Furthermore, treating with PsJN+L-tryptophan and MN34+L-tryptophan resulted in reduced conductivity of seed leachates and malondialdehyde levels in primary, secondary, and tertiary umbel seeds. These findings collectively indicate the potential of the foliar application of PsJN+L-tryptophan and MN34+L-tryptophan to effectively alter umbel arrangement, leading to improved yield and seed quality. This study implies that carrot seed producers can consider employing specific PGPB strains, particularly MN34+L-tryptophan, to suppress tertiary umbels and achieve higher yields of high-quality carrot seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During kharif 2020 and 2021, an investigation was conducted to investigate the role of plant growth regulators as foliar spray on okra seed yield and quality. The experiment was laid out in RBD with three replications and eleven treatments. Foliar sprays were done at 15 and 30 DAS. Observations on various plant growth parameters, yield attributing characters, seed yield, seed storability and quality were recorded. Harvested seeds were stored in poly bags for a period of twelve months to study the storability of seeds. Results revealed that treatment with Cycocel 250 ppm recorded highest germination percentage (83.37%) followed by GA3 150 ppm (80.50%) whereas control plot recorded (73.00 %) of germination one year after storage. The rate of decrease in germination was (8.09%) with Cycocel (250 ppm) as compared to control (15.02%). The lowest increase in seed moisture content was recorded with Cycocel (250 ppm) (3.43%) followed by GA3 (150 ppm) as compared to control (4.98%). Up to twelve months of storage the progressive decline of Vigour Index -I and Vigour Index -II was demonstrated with Cycocel (250 ppm), GA3 (150 ppm) and NAA (200 ppm) with a decreased rate which expressed their potentiality as effective growth regulators. The electrical conductivity increased with a very decreased rate in Cycocel (250 ppm) (255.77%) followed by GA3 (150 ppm) (324.11%) and NAA (200 ppm) (384.31%) as compared to control (583.98%). Hence Cycocel (250 ppm) may be considered as best plant growth regulators increasing yield, seed quality and storability of okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After wheat and rice, maize is one of the most significant cereal crops worldwide. However, high-quality seed materials are prerequisites for stable yields, and low-quality maize seeds significantly contribute to low yields and deteriorate over time. Therefore, the present investigation aims to investigate the effects of seed quality and hybrid types on maize germination by emphasizing seed viability and vigor and their impact on maize crops' overall performance and productivity. The study was separately conducted in the laboratory and on a field experiment plot under the Department of Crop Production, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, in spring 2022. Nine parental lines, six hybrids, and a controlled hybrid were tested in this study. The studies were laid out using a complete randomization design (CRD) and a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in the laboratory and in the field. The results of the study showed that there was a statistically significant difference between genotypes and number of days and their interaction in seed vigor. The parental lines showed better performance in terms of germination percentage and radicle elongation, whereas single-cross hybrids (SC) produced better plumule length. The radicle and plumule length also expanded significantly as incubation days increased. In field evaluations, as expected, hybrid lines produced better performance than parental lines, and SC hybrids were more prevalent than the other hybrids. In addition, the number of rows per ear, number of kernels per ear, 1000-kernel weight, and ear weight directly affected the final grain yield. However, further research is needed on new approaches that can assist researchers in advancing their work by considering biotic and abiotic factors to address seed-quality issues and enhance yield production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Burkina Faso, the sesame sector is still relatively unorganized, with poor quality seeds that are unsuitable or outdated farming practices and noncompliant with recommended technical itineraries. This situation is very worrying and needs to be rectified. For this reason, we undertook this study to highlight the impact of the seeding method on the physiological, morphological, and agronomic performances of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties grown in Burkina Faso. The experiment was conducted at the Gampèla agropedagogical station located at 12°25′N, 12°22′W from Ouagadougou. Varieties S-42, 32-15, Wollega, and Humera were grown in strips (broadcast seeding) and in randomized complete blocks (row sowing). Row seeding favored plant growth and development for all varieties. Seed yield per plant for row seeding was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than for broadcast seeding. In terms of 1000 seed weight, there was a decrease in the Wollega variety (2.42 g) in the broadcast seeding group compared with the row seeding group (3.13 g). The seeding method had no effect on the other varieties. The seeding method also had no significant influence on the lipid and protein contents of the seeds. When sown in rows, varieties S-42 (25.7 g/kg), 32-15 (20.64 g/kg), and Wollega (17.33 g/kg) accumulated more K than the broadcast seeding groups. For the Humera variety, the seeding method had no effect on K. Na accumulation in leaves was statistically equal for all varieties in both broadcast and row seeding. Variety 32-15 accumulated more Mg when sown broadcast (5.95 g/kg) than when sown in rows (3.85 g/kg). On the other hand, the varieties S-42 (3.13 g/kg), Wollega (4.21 g/kg), and Humera (3.12 g/kg) accumulated less Mg when broadcast than when sown in rows (S-42 (4.37 g/kg), Wollega (5.68 g/kg), and Humera (5.73 g/kg)). Thus, seeding in rows is recommended to obtain better vegetative development and higher capsule and seed yields for all varieties. Both of the seeding methods deliver the same lipid, protein, and Na contents for all varieties. Broadcast seeding is recommended for better Mg content for variety 32-15, and row seeding is recommended for better K content for varieties S-42, Wollega, and 32-15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]