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One of the major challenges for potato producers is to maximize its yield and quality by properly managing the nitrogen fertilization. An experiment was conducted under North-Western Indian conditions during two consecutive years with two potato varieties, i.e. Kufri Surya and Kufri Sadabahar under five nitrogen levels (0, 75, 150, 225, and 300 kg/ha) in a randomized block design (factorial) with three replications. The results revealed that most of the growth parameters and NPK uptake by haulms were maximum at 300 kg/ha nitrogen level that was statistically at par with nitrogen level 225 kg/ha, while for yield parameters and NPK uptake by tubers, nitrogen level 225 kg/ha was the best with the highest value. It depicts that crop yield parameters are negatively affected by the nitrogen dose of above 225 kg/ha. So far the variety is concerned, Kufri Sadabahar was significantly better for all the noted growth and yield parameters as well as NPK uptake by tubers and haulms than the variety Kufri Surya. Regarding the soil fertility behaviour after harvest of the crop, higher left over nitrogen in soil was recorded for the highest applied nitrogen dose, whereas phosphorus and potassium left over in soil was recorded more where no nitrogen was applied (control plot), which was closely followed by 75 kg/ha nitrogen level. The results provide useful recommendations for the improvement of nitrogen fertilization rate for these two varieties in sub-tropical region of north western India in Haryana state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Plant-derived nanovesicles have emerged as potential agents for combating tumors. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of Panax notoginsengderived nanovesicles (PnNVs) on the proliferation and migration of squamous cell carcinoma. Additionally, we explored the relationship between plant tuber size and the physical properties, composition and bioactivity of these nanovesicles. Methods: We isolated PnNVs from Panax notoginseng tubers of varying sizes: small-sized (s_PnNVs), medium-sized (m_PnNVs) and large-sized (l_PnNVs), and evaluated for size, potential, and morphology. Cellular uptake efficiency was assessed using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. The ability of different PnNVs to inhibit oral squamous cell carcinoma cells was evaluated using plate cloning, CCK8 assay, and scratch healing assay. Off-target metabolomics was used to compare metabolic compounds of different PnNVs. Results: Our findings revealed that s_PnNVs exhibited lower potential but had the highest cellular uptake efficiency, whereas m_PnNVs were characterized by the smallest size and lowest cellular uptake efficiency. Notably, m_PnNVs demonstrated the most effective inhibition of squamous cell carcinoma growth and migration. Compositional analyses showed that PnNVs were rich in proteins and contained lower levels of RNA, with l_PnNVs having the highest protein content. Furthermore, untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed a significant increase in the expression of specific antitumour-related metabolites in m_PnNVs compared to s_PnNVs and l_PnNVs. Conclusion: Overall, our results underscore the influence of plant tuber size on the bioactivity of the nanovesicles from which they are derived, emphasizing its importance for experimental design and study reproducibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato tuber shape, size, and specific gravity are important agronomic traits in the russet market class of potatoes with an impact on quality, consistency, and product recovery of processed foods such as French fries. Therefore, identifying genetic regions associated with the three traits through quantitative trait locus/ loci (QTL) analysis is a crucial process in the subsequent development of markerassisted selection for use in potato breeding programs. QTL analysis was conducted on a tetraploid mapping population consisting of 190 individuals derived from the cross between two russet-skinned parents, Palisade Russet and the breeding clone ND028673B-2Russ. Field data collected over a 2-year period and used in the QTL analyses included tuber length--width and width--depth ratios that were obtained using a digital caliper. The width--depth ratio provided an assessment of the "flatness" of a tuber, which is of importance in potato processing. To cross-validate the accuracy and differences among tuber shape measurement methods, a trained evaluator also assessed the identical tubers based on 1--5 scale (compressed to long) visual assessment method. Furthermore, the weights of analyzed tubers and specific gravities were also collected during the phenotyping process for each mapping clone. A major tuber shape QTL was consistently observed on chromosome 10 with both the length--width ratio and visual assessments. On chromosome 4, a significant QTL for tuber shape from the visual assessment phenotypic data was also detected. Additionally, a tuber shape-related QTL on chromosome 6 was also detected from the length--width ratio data from 2020. Chromosome 2 was also identified as having a significant QTL for the width--depth ratio, which is of importance in influencing the flatness of a tuber. One significant QTL for tuber weight (i.e., tuber size) was observed on chromosome 5, and a significant QTL for specific gravity was found on chromosome 3. These significant and major QTL should be useful for developing marker-assisted selection for more efficient potato breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In potato production, optimum tuber size is important to maximize crop value and hence growers target different tuber sizes at harvest to meet the localized market demand as produce size affects the pricing. Normally medium sized and large sized tubers get premium rates as compared to small tubers in the market, however, small sized tubers of specific varieties are also liked for some specific purposes and therefore get premium rates. In the changing food habit scenario, tubers weighing 20-40 grams specially packed and marketed as "baby potatoes" attract consumers. Baby potatoes are valued by consumers for freshness, taste, size and shape. Baby potatoes are consumed worldwide in a variety of dishes through various culinary methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato tuber shape, size, and specific gravity are important agronomic traits in the russet market class of potatoes with an impact on quality, consistency, and product recovery of processed foods such as French fries. Therefore, identifying genetic regions associated with the three traits through quantitative trait locus/loci (QTL) analysis is a crucial process in the subsequent development of marker-assisted selection for use in potato breeding programs. QTL analysis was conducted on a tetraploid mapping population consisting of 190 individuals derived from the cross between two russet-skinned parents, Palisade Russet and the breeding clone ND028673B-2Russ. Field data collected over a 2-year period and used in the QTL analyses included tuber length–width and width–depth ratios that were obtained using a digital caliper. The width–depth ratio provided an assessment of the “flatness” of a tuber, which is of importance in potato processing. To cross-validate the accuracy and differences among tuber shape measurement methods, a trained evaluator also assessed the identical tubers based on 1–5 scale (compressed to long) visual assessment method. Furthermore, the weights of analyzed tubers and specific gravities were also collected during the phenotyping process for each mapping clone. A major tuber shape QTL was consistently observed on chromosome 10 with both the length–width ratio and visual assessments. On chromosome 4, a significant QTL for tuber shape from the visual assessment phenotypic data was also detected. Additionally, a tuber shape-related QTL on chromosome 6 was also detected from the length–width ratio data from 2020. Chromosome 2 was also identified as having a significant QTL for the width–depth ratio, which is of importance in influencing the flatness of a tuber. One significant QTL for tuber weight (i.e., tuber size) was observed on chromosome 5, and a significant QTL for specific gravity was found on chromosome 3. These significant and major QTL should be useful for developing marker-assisted selection for more efficient potato breeding.

The purpose of this research is to improve the physical properties and fertility of soil to improve production of shallot. The research method used is a randomized block factorial design with 3 replication. The first factor was application of liquid fertilizer (N) consisting of 3 levels (N0: 0 cm3/L water; N1: 1.5 cm3/L water; N2: 3 cm3/L water). Second factor was cattle manure (A) consisting of 4 levels, namely: A0: 0 g; A1: 40 g cattle manure; A2: 80 g cattle manure; and A3: 120 g cattle manure. The results shown treatment with liquid fertilizer has a significant effect on plant height at weeks after planting (WAP). The study showed that treatment with liquid fertilizer has a significant effect on plant height, tuber weight per clump, and tuber weight per plot, but didn’t not have a significant effect on number of leaves and number of samplings of the shallot plants. Treatment with cattle manure has a significant effect on plant height, tuber weight per clump, tuber weight per plot, and tuber diameter, but does not have a significant effect on number of leaves and number of saplings of the shallot plants. It can be concluded that the higher the application of liquid fertilizer, up to 3 cm3/L , the higher the growth and production of shallot plants, and the higher the application of cattle manure, up to 120 g/plot the higher the growth and production of shallot plants.

Abstract Background The allelopathic effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves applied as organic manure in tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) production on associated weeds was investigated in the guinea savanna of South West Nigeria, during the 2014 (September - November) and 2015 (June - August) wet seasons. Methods Five Moringa leaves rates (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t/ha) and three tuber sizes (0.28 g, 0.49 g and 0.88 g dry weight) were laid out in the main plot and sub-plot, respectively in a split-plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design and replicated three times. Results Parameters measured, which include, weed cover score (WCS), weed density (WD) and weed dry matter production (WDMP) were significantly (p

It is possible to realise the maximum genetic potential of modern potato varieties by improving the elements of agricultural technology, in particular, optimising plant nutrition, which determines the relevance of this study. The purpose of the study was to substantiate the specific features of potato productivity formation depending on the elements of growing technology in Forest-Steppe conditions. Field studies were conducted during 2019-2021 on chernozem soils. The features of growth and development of potato varieties of various ripeness groups Laperla, Granada, and Memphis in Forest-Steppe conditions are examined. It is established that the yield of potato seed tubers of the varieties under study varies depending on the dose and method of fertilisation, the fraction of planting tubers, and varietal characteristics. The highest indicators of individual productivity of potato plants of the Laperla, Granada, and Memphis varieties were formed when locally applied in rows N45R45K45 against the background of semi-rotted manure, phosphorus-potassium fertiliser, and the use of seed tubers with a fraction of >60 mm. As a result of the action of the factors under study, the number of stems in the bush and under it increased. A strong direct correlation was established between the number of stems in the bush and the number of tubers (r=0.78), with a coefficient of determination of 61.0%. The maximum yield of potato tubers of the examined potato varieties (29.7-41.1 t/ha) was obtained by local application of N45R45K45 against the background of semi-rotted manure and phosphorus-potassium fertiliser, depending on the size of seed tubers by the largest transverse diameter. It was identified that the use of tubers with a fraction of >60 mm for planting the potato varieties under study is irrational since the consumption of seed material exceeds the yield growth indicators. It was determined that Laperla, Granada, and Memphis tubers with a fraction of 28-60 mm are optimal for planting potato varieties of different ripeness groups. The research results can be used to adjust the elements of agricultural technology of seed potatoes, obtain high-quality planting material, and conduct profitable agribusiness

The konjac plant (Amorphophallus oncophyllus Prain.) contains high glucomannan with many benefits. This experiment aimed to study effect of paclobutrazol dose and seedling size on the growth and yield of konjac plants. The research was arranged factorially based on a Completely Randomized Design with two factor. The first factor (paclobutrazol dose) consisted of P0: 0.0 g/plant, P1: 0.05 g/plant, P2: 0.10 g/plant, P3: 0.15 g/plant, P4: 0.20 g/plant. The second factor (seed size) consisted of U1: 20-50 g/seed, U2: 100-150 g/seed, U3: 200-250 g/seed. Observation parameters included plant height, canopy diameter, stem diameter, stem sturdiness, number of buds, weight and diameter of tubers. Results showed that paclobutrazol dose of 0.20 g/plant had a significant effect on stem sturdiness, weight and diameter of the tubers. The maximum of tuber weight obtained by paclobutrazol application of 0.2 g/plant was estimated to be 1,533 g with tuber diameter of 167 mm. Small size seed (20-50 g) produced the largest number of buds and did not differ markedly from those of medium size seed (100-150 g). Large size seed (200-250 g) produced the best konjac plants in term of canopy diameter, stem sturdiness, weight and diameter of tubers.

Background: The allelopathic effect of Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves applied as organic manure in tiger nut (Cyperus esculentus L.) production on associated weeds was investigated in the guinea savanna of South West Nigeria, during the 2014 (September - November) and 2015 (June - August) wet seasons. Methods: Five Moringa leaves rates (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t/ha) and three tuber sizes (0.28 g, 0.49 g and 0.88 g dry weight) were laid out in the main plot and sub-plot, respectively in a split-plot arrangement fitted into randomized complete block design and replicated three times. Results: Parameters measured, which include, weed cover score (WCS), weed density (WD) and weed dry matter production (WDMP) were significantly (p<0.05) influenced in both years by Moringa leaf. In 2015, WCS, WD and WDMP significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 25–73%, 35–78% and 26–70% on Moringa leaves-treated plots respectively. There were significant (p<0.05) interactions between quantity of Moringa leaves incorporated and tuber size. The bigger the tuber and the higher the quantity of Moringa leaves incorporated the lower the WCS, WD and WDMP. Conclusions: Consequently, application of 10 t.ha− 1 Moringa leaves and planting of large or medium-sized tubers were recommended for optimum weed suppression in tiger nut production in South West Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivation in double-cropping systems requires planting whole seed tubers of cultivars with a short dormant period (50–70 days). We used the cultivar 'Saebong' to determine the ideal seed tuber size for double-cropping. Whole tubers were categorized as small (10–20 g), medium (30–40 g), and large (50–60 g), and their dormancy characteristics were assessed at six dormancy stages. As seed tuber size increased, the dormancy period decreased and the sprouting rate of tubers increased. Plant hormone content analysis showed that abscisic acid (ABA) levels were negatively correlated with tuber size throughout dormancy. In contrast, gibberellin (GA3) and zeatin levels were positively correlated with tuber size during sprouting, suggesting that the faster dormancy release in larger tubers is due to lower ABA during dormancy and higher GA3 and zeatin during sprouting. Additionally, we examined tuber quality and yield characteristics using the same tuber size categories. Medium and large tubers showed higher sprouting rates, more eyes per tuber, higher starch content, and longer sprouts than those of small tubers. Moreover, our field test showed that the sprouts of medium and large tubers emerged earlier than sprouts of small tubers, resulting in longer stems and a higher ground cover rate. Medium and large seed tubers produced 4.30–4.70-fold greater marketable yields than small tubers. Thus, medium and large whole seed tubers are ideal for double cropping, and larger seed tubers exhibit faster dormancy release than their smaller counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A mathematical model for predicting the peeling efficiency of a cassava peeler was developed using a dimensional analysis based on Buckingham' s pi theorem. The model was validated using data from experimental studies which revealed a maximum coefficient of determination of R2 = 0.8366 between the measured and predicted values. The developed model proved appropriate in estimating the peel removal efficiency for a cassava peeler by up to 83.66%. There was no significance difference between the experimental and predicted values at a 0.05 significance level.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of the rates and timings of prohexadione-calcium (prohexadione-Ca) application on shoot growth, tuber yield, and quality of two potato cultivars (Agata and Mondial). An experiment with each cultivar was carried out in a greenhouse using a randomized block design with four replications. Treatments consisted of a control and single or sequential foliar applications of prohexadione-Ca at the rate of 50 or 100 g ha-1 (50 g ha-1 applied once, 50 g ha-1 applied twice, 50 g ha-1 applied three times, 100 g ha-1 applied once, 100 g ha-1 applied twice, and 100 g ha-1 applied three times). Prohexadione-Ca application changed the distribution pattern of tuber size in both cultivars. A rate of 100 g ha-1 prohexadione-Ca was applied three times between the stages of tuber initiation and tuber bulking, making the haulm length of the plants short for a long time. Prohexadione-Ca application did not alter the tuber yield and quality of the cultivar Agata, but 50 g ha-1 applied three times or 100 g ha-1 applied twice increased tuber yield in the cultivar Mondial. Only in the cultivar Mondial, 50 g ha-1 prohexadione-Ca applied three times increase tuber dry matter, starch, and protein contents.

The article presents the results of study of potato varieties and hybrids collection in the conditions of Kirov region, including varieties of modern Russian and foreign collections, interspecific hybrids of VIR, Falenskaya selection station and other scientific institutions for 300-350 samples annually. The study was conducted in contrasting weather conditions in 2017-2019. Sources of high productivity (705…887 g/bush): 129-10, Effekt (Russia), Lukawa (Czechoslovakia), Zorachka, Uladar (Belarus), Colomba (Netherlands) and others, and large potato tuber (100…140 g): Bellarosa (Germany), Lilea (Belarus), Irbitsky, Krepysh (Russia) were revealed. Due to big epiphytotic of late blight in 2017 varieties with high field resistance of foliage to late blight were revealed (7-9 points): Kufri Anara (India), Suzorye, Ragneda, Alpinist (Belarus), Gubernator, Skazka, Effekt, Vdohnovenie, Fritella, Legenda, 90-5-30, 55-03 (Russia); 387110.4, 678019 (Peru) and others. In 2019 samples with high late blight resistance of tubers were selected (9 points): Lilea (Belarus), Udacha, Ognivo, Lubava Legenda, 122-29, 90-6-2, 194-00, 591-97, 55-03, 56-09, 172-11, 6-1, 39-10, 132-07 (Russia), 389746.2, 678019 (BL-22), 678009 (BL-1.10) (Peru). Varieties of field resistance to viral diseases were selected: Lukawa (Czechoslovakia), Yanka, Ragneda, Zorachka, Charaunik (Belarus), Franzi, Albina, Kolomba, Sofia (Germany), Lazar, Skazka, Mayak, Udacha, Krasavchik, Charodey), Zolsky, Matushka, Nayada, Sudarynya, Kolobok, 42-7-40, 112-04, 184-05, 28-06, 48-224-10, 455-08, 431-08, 142-09, 5-7К, 1-13К, 218-12, 286-08, 40-14К, 16-25-1К, 16-29-33К, 56-09, 289-13. Assessment of starch content allowed to select varieties and hybrids with starch content above 20%: Bashkirsky, Zolsky, Lazar (Russia), Uladar, Vektar Belorussky, Manifest, Zhuravinka, Zdabytok (Belarus) and others. Hybrids 268-09 and 289-13 combined high starch content and high late blight resistance. The most valuable source material for potato breeding in the Kirov region are varieties and hybrids with a complex manifestation of warnings: Bellarosa, Albina, Sofia (Germany), 129-09, 40-14, 7-2В, 5-7 К, 268-08, 141-14, 289-13, 455-08, 56-09, 149-14, Kamensky, Irbitsky, Debryansk, Effekt (Russia), Kolamba (Netherlands), Zorachka, Сharaunik, Uladar, Altair, Lilea (Belarus), Lukawa (Czechoslovakia).

A mathematical model for predicting the peeling efficiency of a cassava peeler was developed using a dimensional analysis based on Buckingham' s pi theorem. The model was validated using data from experimental studies which revealed a maximum coefficient of determination of R2 = 0.8366 between the measured and predicted values. The developed model proved appropriate in estimating the peel removal efficiency for a cassava peeler by up to 83.66%. There was no significance difference between the experimental and predicted values at a 0.05 significance level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamics of plant populations are highly influenced by light-dependent growth features and patterns of reproduction when overwintering. Vallisneria spinulosa is a common submersed macrophyte and has been widely used in lake restoration projects. The relationship between reproduction when overwintering and regrowth in the following year is not well known and may vary with light intensity. In this study, reproduction and plant growth of V. spinulosa were tested at three light intensities (high, moderate and low, i.e. 50%, 15% and 7% of full sunlight, respectively) for 1 year. Asexual reproduction by forming winter tubers in the sediment was found to be of greater significance for population maintenance than sexual reproduction. Plant biomass and ramet number remained unchanged between October and June in the following year at both 15% and 7% of full sunlight, suggesting that the light requirement for population maintenance is low. At high light, plant biomass, ramet number and tuber biomass were higher and plants tended to form a larger number of small-sized than large-sized tubers. Small-sized tubers featured a high nitrogen content and germinated early, while large-sized tubers were characterised by a high carbon content and germinated later in spring. Thus, there probably is a trade-off between the germination schedule and carbon and nitrogen contents, depending on tuber size. Large numbers, high nitrogen content and early germination of small tubers at high light supported fast establishment of V. spinulosa populations in spring. Our study highlights the importance of asexual reproduction as contributing to a high competition and expansion capacity for V. spinulosa populations, making it a valuable species to focus on for lake management and restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum chacoense is a wild relative of potato (Solanum tuberosum) that is of interest because of its many desirable traits, but it exhibits variations in tuber dormancy across accessions. The objective of this study was to determine an appropriate gibberellic acid (GA3) concentration and soak time treatment to encourage sprout development across four accessions of S. chacoense (A, B, C, and D) from the 174 accessions of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Potato Genebank. Twelve treatments were created by using four concentrations of GA3 (0, 50, 100, and 150 μg·mL−1) across three soak periods (5, 45, and 90 minutes). Small (average weight, 1.4 g), medium (2.6 g), and large (5.6 g) tubers were distributed among all treatments. Percentage of tubers sprouted, time to sprouting, sprout length, and sprout number per tuber were analyzed to determine the effectiveness of GA3 treatments on dormancy breaking. GA3 concentrations of 50, 100, and 150 μg·mL−1 partially broke dormancy within accessions B and C. None of the tested treatments were effective for breaking dormancy in accession D within 46 days after treatment. Accession A showed weaker dormancy, thus producing a similar percentage of sprouted tubers across all GA3 treatments. Soak time had no significant effect on all parameters measured. Larger tubers produced greater sprout number per tuber and percentages of sprouted tubers. Soaking tubers in 50 μg·mL−1 of GA3 may be an effective treatment for S. chacoense accessions with mild dormancy, but alternative methods to break dormancy may be required for S. chacoense accessions with stronger dormancy.

Aim: Plant-derived nanovesicles have emerged as potential agents for combating tumors. In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effects of Panax notoginseng -derived nanovesicles (PnNVs) on the proliferation and migration of squamous cell carcinoma. Additionally, we explored the relationship between plant tuber size and the physical properties, composition and bioactivity of these nanovesicles., Methods: We isolated PnNVs from Panax notoginseng tubers of varying sizes: small-sized (s&#95;PnNVs), medium-sized (m&#95;PnNVs) and large-sized (l&#95;PnNVs), and evaluated for size, potential, and morphology. Cellular uptake efficiency was assessed using confocal microscopy and flow cytometry. The ability of different PnNVs to inhibit oral squamous cell carcinoma cells was evaluated using plate cloning, CCK8 assay, and scratch healing assay. Off-target metabolomics was used to compare metabolic compounds of different PnNVs., Results: Our findings revealed that s&#95;PnNVs exhibited lower potential but had the highest cellular uptake efficiency, whereas m&#95;PnNVs were characterized by the smallest size and lowest cellular uptake efficiency. Notably, m&#95;PnNVs demonstrated the most effective inhibition of squamous cell carcinoma growth and migration. Compositional analyses showed that PnNVs were rich in proteins and contained lower levels of RNA, with l&#95;PnNVs having the highest protein content. Furthermore, untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed a significant increase in the expression of specific antitumour-related metabolites in m&#95;PnNVs compared to s&#95;PnNVs and l&#95;PnNVs., Conclusion: Overall, our results underscore the influence of plant tuber size on the bioactivity of the nanovesicles from which they are derived, emphasizing its importance for experimental design and study reproducibility., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Chen, Huang, Zhang, Lin, Xie, Li, Wang, Lu and Zheng.)

A field experiment was conducted at a private forest at Kalyanpur, Chitwan from March to January of 2018/2019 to evaluate the effect of different tuber size and nutrient source on the yield of yam (Dioscorea spp.). The experiment was laid out in a factorial Randomized Complete Block Design (factorial RCBD) with two factors i.e. tuber size viz small tuber size (

This study evaluated the effects of the rates and timings of prohexadione-calcium (prohexadione-Ca) application on shoot growth, tuber yield, and quality of two potato cultivars (Agata and Mondial). An experiment with each cultivar was carried out in a greenhouse using a randomized block design with four replications. Treatments consisted of a control and single or sequential foliar applications of prohexadione-Ca at the rate of 50 or 100 g ha-1 (50 g ha-1 applied once, 50 g ha-1 applied twice, 50 g ha-1 applied three times, 100 g ha-1 applied once, 100 g ha-1 applied twice, and 100 g ha- 1 applied three times). Prohexadione-Ca application changed the distribution pattern of tuber size in both cultivars. A rate of 100 g ha-1 prohexadione-Ca was applied three times between the stages of tuber initiation and tuber bulking, making the haulm length of the plants short for a long time. Prohexadione-Ca application did not alter the tuber yield and quality of the cultivar Agata, but 50 g ha-1 applied three times or 100 g ha-1 applied twice increased tuber yield in the cultivar Mondial. Only in the cultivar Mondial, 50 g ha-1 prohexadione-Ca applied three times increase tuber dry matter, starch, and protein contents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants grown in stony soils have better developed root systems and higher crop yields. The roles of physical and chemical effects of stony soils on plant growth have been published, but the roles of soil microbiota have not been investigated. In this study, Tetrastigma hemsleyanum plants were cultivated for 2 years in stony soils and the same soils after removing rock fragments (non-stony soils). The composition of bacterial community and the tuber transcriptome were analyzed, using multiple bioinformatics methods. Compared with non-stony soils, stony soils supported a significantly different bacterial community, which was associated with larger tuber size of T. hemsleyanum. Stony soils had greater bacterial diversity, co-occurrence network complexity, and greater abundance of bacterial taxa belonging to Actinobacteria, Rokubacteria, Rhizobiales, Desulfarculaceae, and Chthoniobacteraceae than the corresponding microbiota in non-stony soils. The differential soil bacterial communities between stony and non-stony soils may be mainly driven by soil physicochemical properties, such as available S, organic matter, and pH. The discriminatory bacterial taxa of soils shaped the bacterial communities of rhizosphere soil, and tuber surface soil (TS), which was strongly correlated with tuber size parameters. In addition, the potential functions of the discriminatory bacterial taxa in TS corresponded closely with gene pathways of the host, like phytohormone biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and biotic stress resistance, which are crucial for the initiation and development of tubers. These results not only help us to better understand the role of stony soils in improving plant growth but also provide a reference for increasing tuber yield through the use of microbial inocula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compact and dry soils impede root growth and restrict plant water availability, respectively, potentially causing leaf water deficit. Although both stresses likely co‐occur in the field and limit yield, little is known about their combined impact on plant growth and physiology over a whole season, especially in a tuberous crop like potato. Field‐grown potato (Solanum tuberosum L. var. 'Maris Piper') was exposed to factorial combination of deficit irrigation (watering when soil moisture deficit reached 60 vs. 25 mm) and soil compaction (compacted with heavy machinery vs. uncompacted), with plant growth and leaf physiology measured weekly. Shoot growth was restricted by adverse soil conditions, while leaf water status, photosynthesis rates and leaf abscisic acid (ABA) levels did not vary significantly between treatments. Across all treatments, final yield was linearly correlated (R2 = 0.71) to mid‐season shoot biomass. Compared to well‐watered plants growing in loose soil, soil compaction, deficit irrigation and their combination decreased final tuber yield similarly, by 23%–34%. Surprisingly, tuber size distribution was more dependent on irrigation management than on soil strength. Plants exposed to deficit irrigation produced more, smaller potatoes than their respective control. Thus, low soil water availability and/or compact soil caused these field‐grown potatoes to restrict shoot growth rather than limit leaf gas exchange. Further research is needed to understand the role of hormonal signalling in regulating tuber growth when plants are exposed to compact and dry soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low yield is crucial bottleneck for potato production in Bangladesh. The application of vermicompost may enhance the yield of potato. The experiment was consisted of two factors, i.e., Factor A: - Vermicompost level (Vm1-4): Vm1: 0 t ha-1, Vm2: 3 t ha-1, Vm3: 6 t ha-1 and Vm4: 9 t ha-1; Factor B:- Tuber size (T1-5): T1: 5-10 g, T2: 10-20 g, T3: 20-30 g, T4: 30-40 g and T5: > 40 g. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design with three replications. Vermicompost had significant effect on most of the yield contributing parameters investigated under present study. Results revealed that yield parameters increased with increasing vermicompost level irrespective of tuber size. Among the twenty (20) treatment combinations, vermicompost at the rate of 9 t ha-1 with tuber size > 40 g produced the maximum yield (31.33 t ha-1) that was 53.53 % higher than that of control with 3273.01 $ of monetary advantage. Therefore, present study suggests that potato growers may use vermicompost for increasing yield of potato in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress can seriously reduce the tuber yield of potato (Solanum tuberosum). Early maturing cultivars are usually less affected by heat than late cultivars, which is explained by the avoidance of long exposure to summer temperatures due to the short growing time of early maturing cultivars. To determine whether there are other mechanisms involved in heat tolerance of early cultivars, we conducted correlation analysis between field earliness and growth performance of 50 potato cultivars under both heat-stressed (HS, day/night 35 °C/28 °C) and control conditions (CK, day/night 22 °C/18 °C). We classified the 50 cultivars into 8 scales of earliness and grouped them into early, intermediate and late groups based on the information on field plant maturity in Canada. We found that cultivars known to be early in the field grew similar to late cultivars under heat stress in the greenhouse in terms of traits evaluated, such as chlorophyll content and plant height. Compared with late cultivars, the early cultivars did not show any sign of early maturity under heat stress conditions. The HS/CK ratios of chlorophyll content, plant height, and largest tuber weight (tuber size) were all significantly greater in early cultivars than in late cultivars. Tuber size and field earliness were negatively correlated in CK but positively correlated under heat stress. Clearly, in addition to avoidance, other mechanisms (such as pleiotropic effects of earliness genes) were involved in the better performance of early cultivars under heat stress. These results indicated that the cultivars reprogramed their plant maturity and development under heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical desiccants are commonly used to regulate tuber size, strengthen skin, and facilitate harvest for potato (Solanum tuberosum) production. Glufosinate is labeled for potato vine desiccation; however, limited data are available. Saflufenacil, a protoporphyrinogen oxidase–inhibiting herbicide, is an effective desiccant in other crops. Field research was conducted to evaluate glufosinate and saflufenacil as desiccants applied to ‘Dark Red Norland’ potato. Desiccants consisted of diquat, glufosinate, saflufenacil, glufosinate plus carfentrazone, and glufosinate plus saflufenacil applied at three timings, DESIC-1, DESIC-2, and DESIC-3, when size B potatoes averaged 43%, 31%, and 17% of total potato weight. Potato vine desiccation was more difficult at DESIC-1 and DESIC-2 because of immature vines. Diquat was the most effective desiccant 7 days after treatment (DAT), desiccating potato vines 88% at DESIC-1 7 DAT. Glufosinate alone desiccated potato vines 65% at the same timing; however, carfentrazone and saflufenacil added to glufosinate increased vine desiccation 8% and 16% compared with glufosinate alone, respectively. Vine desiccation by all treatments ranged 99% to 100% at 14 DAT. Desiccant and timing effects on skin set were determined using a torque meter before harvest. Skin set resulting from all desiccants and timings ranged between 1.88 and 2 lb-inch, and no significant differences were observed. No significant differences in yield were noted among desiccants. This research indicates that glufosinate and saflufenacil are suitable alternatives to diquat for potato vine desiccation; however, safety of saflufenacil applied to potatoes before harvest has not been determined.

The storage of yield of potato depends on quality of potato tuber. During storage the respiration process and evaporation are the cause of natural loss of potato tuber biomass. In our experiments, the loss of mass depended on variety, tuber size, and place of growing. During first day of storage, the natural loss of biomass of cv. «Rosara» was 2,9-3.1%, and cv. «Udacha» – 1,9-6,3%.

The study of genetic diversity of germplasm is the first priority for genetic improvement of crop species, but the information on genetic diversity for traits related to yield is limited in Jerusalem artichoke. The objectives of this study were to determine genetic variations in tuber number per plant, tuber size, tuber width, tuber length and days to maturity in Jerusalem artichoke genotypes and to identify superior genotypes for these characters under different water regimes. A strip-plot design with 4 replications for 2 years was used in this study. Three water treatments were assigned as factor A (W1 = 100%, W2 = 75% and W3 = 45% of the crop water requirement) and forty Jerusalem artichoke genotypes were assigned as factor B. Data were recorded for tuber number per plant tuber size, tuber width, tuber length, days to maturity and plant height. The differences among water regimes and Jerusalem artichoke genotypes were significant for all characters. Genotypes contributed to the largest portions of total variations in most characters except for tuber length. The genotypes with high tuber number per plant in all drought levels and years were JA92, HEL246 and JA15, whereas HEL65, HEL231, HEL53 and JA89 had a high tuber width across water regimes and years. JA70, JA 36, JA 46, HEL 65 and JA 97 had high performance for the tuber length across water regimes and years, whereas HEL65, JA76, HEL253, HEL53, HEL62, HEL231 and HEL335 had high performance for tuber size across water regimes and years. These genotypes should be useful in future breeding programs for drought tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of genetic productivity potential of five leading varieties in Montenegro (Kennebec, Agria, Aladdin, Tresor and Riviera) was conducted during 2010 and 2011 in the municipalities of Žabljak region, on mountainous black soil at 1,500 meters of altitude. The highest number of tubers was found in a parcel planted with Tresor and Aladdin-8.5, while the lowest number of tubers was found in Kennebec-6.8 tubers per plant. Comparing to other tested varieties, Kennebec had a significantly lower number of tubers. On average, Kennebec and Tresor had the largest tubers (96 and 91 g), and differences found were statistically very significant. The biggest tuber yield was measured in Tresor-32.5 t/ha, while the lowest tuber yield was in Agria and Riviera (24.0 and 25.2 t/ha). Tresor had significantly higher tuber production comparing to other varieties.

Knowledge on phosphorus (P) response of main potato cultivars is essential to rational fertilization management and maximize yield, mainly in tropical soils that usually have low P availability. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of P fertilization rates (0, 125, 250, 500, and 1000 kg PO ha) on leaf nutrient concentrations, tuber yield and size distribution, as well as applied P-use efficiency (APUE) in the potato cultivars Agata and Mondial. The results indicated that it is not necessary to evaluate the P-nutritional status and adjust P recommendations on a cultivar basis because P fertilization resulted in similar increases in the leaf P concentration of both cultivars, and the cultivars responded to the same P rate (500 kg PO ha). However, Mondial had a higher APUE and was more responsive than Agata to the same P rate. A leaf P concentration of 2.9 g kg was superior to 2.5 g kg as the lower limit of the P sufficiency range for Agata and Mondial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irrigated processing potato production is an important part of southern Alberta's agricultural economy. A 12-year (2000-11) study compared conservation (CONS) and conventional (CONV) management for potato in 3- to 6-year rotations which also included dry bean ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.), sugar beet ( Beta vulgaris L.), and soft wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.). Oat ( Avena sativa L.) and timothy ( Phleum pratense L.) were added to the longest rotation. Conservation management included reduced tillage, cover crops, feedlot manure compost addition, and solid-seeded dry bean. Averaged over 12 years, a 5-year CONS rotation (potato-wheat-sugar beet-wheat-dry bean) resulted in 18 % higher marketable tuber yield than a 3-year CONV rotation (potato-dry bean-wheat). Reduced incidence of potato early dying was also found with CONS management. Results indicate that integration of CONS management practices led to yield and disease control benefits without negatively impacting tuber quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bu çal ışmada, tam otomatik patates dikim makinas ı nda yumru büyüklü ğ ü ve dikim ünitesinin farkl ı titreş im durumlar ı n ı n s ı ra üzeri yumru da ğı l ı m ı na etkileri incelenmi ştir. Denemelerde Marfona patates çe şidi kullan ı lm ışt ı r. Denemeler 3 farkl ı yumru büyüklüğ ü ve farkl ı dikim ünitesi titre ş im durumlar ı nda dü ş ük ve yüksek titre şim ile titreş imsiz yap ı lmış t ı r. S ı ra üzeri yumru da ğı l ı m ı nda da ğı l ı m ı n varyasyon katsay ı s ı , boş luk ve ikizlenme oranlar ı incelenmiştir. Bu ara şt ı rman ı n sonucunda; yumru büyüklü ğ ü ve titre ş im durumunun s ı ra üzeri yumru da ğı l ı m ı n ı etkilediğ i görülmüştür.

Remusatia vivipara is an epiphyte of possibly ornamentally and medically important plant, but flowering is rare in fields. The present experiments were conducted to study the influences of different concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) and tuber sizes on the flower initiation, inflorescence characteristics and vegetative growth in R. vivipara. GA3 concentration as low as 25 mg L-1 could induce flowering. The results of a binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the flowering was significantly associated both with GA3 concentration and tuber size. However, comparing with the non-GA3 treated tubers, different GA3 concentrations did not significantly affect flowering. The result also showed no significant effect induced by GA3 treatments on the number of days to flower. In contrast, the Wald statistic revealed that both tuber size (2.51-3.00 cm) and tuber size (3.01-3.50 cm) made more significant contributions to the prediction of flowering. Tuber diameters above 3.01 cm with 100 mg L-1 GA3 treatment could bring all plants to flower. Results of canonical discriminant analysis and ANOVA tests indicated that there were no differences for all inflorescence characters (inflorescence length, male zone length, sterile zone length and female zone length) among different concentrations of GA3 tested. On the contrary, significant differences among the tuber diameter classes for all inflorescence characteristics measured were markedly evident. Generally, sizes of almost all inflorescence characteristics increased with increasing tuber sizes. When considering vegetative characters, significant differences in the fresh and dry weights of bulbil stolon were found between treated and untreated tubers. Although there was a trend of increase in weights with increasing GA3 concentrations, but this was not statistically significant. Our results for R. vivipara showed the induction of flowering by GA3 only influence of flower initiation, but no effects on inflorescence and vegetation characteristics. The present study also revealed that large tuber size made more significant contributions to the prediction of flowering, and the magnitude of inflorescence characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eleven potato strains namely FD70-1, SH-704, SH-701, FD 61-3, FD 51-5, N 2002-1, SH-692, FD 69-1,FD 63-1, Asterix and Sante were tested at four locations of Punjab, Pakistan at Potato Research Institute, Sahiwal during 2010-11. On the basis of emergence, the genotype SH-704 (88.9%) exceeded all other strains. Maximum resistance/tolerance was also shown by this strain against scab and cracking diseases. Maximum and minimum percentage of Rhizoctonia was 3 and 0% on the strains sante and FD-631. On an average SH-701 showed the minimum % age (11.6) of small size tubers, and FD 63-1 showed maximum % age (14.1) of ration size tubers. Regarding tuber yield FD-70-1 (32.2 t/ha), FD 69-1(31.2 t/ha), SH-701 (28.1 t/ha), SH-692 and FD 63-1 each gave significantly higher yield (27.6 t/ha) than standard strains Asterix and Sante. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have increased the productivity and yield of potato ( Solanum tuberosum) by developing a novel method to enhance photosynthetic carbon fixation based on expression of a polyprotein ( DEFp) comprising all three subunits (D, E and F) of Escherichia coli glycolate dehydrogenase (Glc DH). The engineered polyprotein retained the functionality of the native Glc DH complex when expressed in E. coli and was able to complement mutants deficient for the D, E and F subunits. Transgenic plants accumulated DEFp in the plastids, and the recombinant protein was active in planta, reducing photorespiration and improving CO2 uptake with a significant impact on carbon metabolism. Transgenic lines with the highest DEFp levels and Glc DH activity produced significantly higher levels of glucose (5.8-fold), fructose (3.8-fold), sucrose (1.6-fold) and transitory starch (threefold), resulting in a substantial increase in shoot and leaf biomass. The higher carbohydrate levels produced in potato leaves were utilized by the sink capacity of the tubers, increasing the tuber yield by 2.3-fold. This novel approach therefore has the potential to increase the biomass and yield of diverse crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research on the relationship between an irrigated potato's quality and potassium chloride (KCI) application. The study examined the rate and timing of the KCI treatment while analyzing its implications for the potatoes particularly its yield, quality, and nutrient status. The researchers believe that future studies should use soil and petiole testing to determine yield responses.

The productivity of potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) systems may be strongly influenced by rotation. A field study consisting of six rotations (potato with canola (PC), wheat (PW), canola-wheat (PCW), oat-wheat (POW), wheat-canola-wheat (PWCW), and canola underseeded to alfalfa-alfalfa-alfalfa (PCAA)) arranged as an RCBD was established on a clay loam in Manitoba, Canada in 1998 and monitored for twelve years to determine effects on potato yield and quality. Higher yields for canola-containing rotations were evident in three years ( P < 0.10), but not beyond 2005. From 2007 onward, 2-year rotations produced a markedly lower yield than other rotations. Yields of 3- and 4-year rotations were similar, although PCW and PCAA were most frequently among the higher-yielding rotations. Overall, PC had a lower specific gravity than other rotations. Results suggest 3- and 4-year rotations, particularly PCW and PCAA, helped maintain productivity. Two-year rotations of PC and PW were not sustainable due to declining yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Involvement of gibberellin in the regulation of size and shape of different plant organs (leaf, floral stem, and tuber) were studied in colored Zantedeschia cv. ‘Calla Gold’ (CG). The effect of gibberellin on allometric relationships between these organs was also examined. Tubers were dipped in solutions of GA3 (0.6 mM) or of the gibberellin biosynthesis inhibitor Uniconazole (3.4 mM) prior to storage, prior to planting, or twice—before storage and before planting. The effects of the growth regulators were followed in plants grown in pots in a screen house under 50% shade. Tuber weight was reduced by both GA3 and Uniconazole, but by different processes. GA3 increased the number of the floral stems per plant, but did not affect floral stem length or blade and petiole length. Uniconazole reduced the proportion of flowering plants, and inhibited leaf and stem elongation. Co-application with GA3 canceled the inhibitory action of Uniconazole on leaf and peduncle elongation. This suggests that gibberellin is involved in the regulation of organ elongation, despite lack of direct effect of exogenous GA3 application. Linear positive relationships were found across the different treatments between tuber weight vs. leaf area, petiole length vs. blade length, petiole length vs. floral stem length, and blade length vs. floral stem length. The constancy in size relationships suggests that the action of the growth regulators on the growth of the different organs were according to intrinsic allometric relationships among them. The differential action of GA3 on flowering and on stem and leaf elongation is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In French Mediterranean wetlands, the combined effects of predation of tubers by wildlife and grazing of aboveground tissue by livestock on the recovery capacities of Bolboschoenus maritimus (L.) Palla are not well known. A container study was conducted that applied tuber harvests at varying levels (20%–90%) and shoot clipping (with or without). Response to harvesting and clipping was recorded as changes in total biomass, number, and mean mass of tubers (calculation of variation indexes). Bolboschoenus maritimus failed to recover from even the lowest tuber harvesting level of 20% and the total number of tubers and biomass decreased. A significant decrease in mean tuber mass over time and approximately no production of new tubers accounted for this absence of compensatory response. The harvesting level had a linear effect on the variation indices of total number of tubers and mean tuber mass. By separating the relative effect of shoot clipping from that of tuber harvesting alone, the results showed that clipping had an additive effect on mean tuber mass, reducing it by about 20%, without any effect on tuber number. The absence of compensatory response under our experimental conditions suggests that clonal plant regrowth partially depends on post-disturbance environmental conditions in the growing season, in our case, dry conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]