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This field experiment aimed to study the positive effect of some herbicides (Atlantis, Tonic + 2.4 D, Granstar + Tonic, and control, on weed plants to improve the growth and yield of three wheat varieties (Hasad, Wafia, and Rezan) under the rain-fed condition of both locations. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design, arranged according to a split plot with three replicates. At the Grdjan location, herbicide treatment caused a significant reduction in the number of weeds at sampling (100 DAS) compared with the control treatment by 87.98%. While, at the Qaladze location, the reduction values in the number of weeds by herbicides at sampling (120 DAS) was 60.77%. At the Grdjan location, herbicide treatment significantly decreased flag leaf area as compared with the control treatment. However, at the Qaladze location herbicides significantly increased, plant height and a number of grains spike-1, whereas significantly reduced the flag leaf area biological yield and wheat grain yield, compared with the control treatment. At the Grdjan and Qaladze locations, the Rezan variety surpassed the Hasad and Wafia varieties in plant height, spike length, number of grains spike-1, 1000-grain weight, wheat grain yield and biological yield. The interaction among Granstar + Tonic application with the Rezan variety increased plant height and wheat grain yield at the Qaladze location. The interaction among Tonic + 2.4 D treatment with Rezan increased the number of grains spike-1 1000-grain weight and harvest index.

Weed control in winter wheat crops is an important issue. There is a risk of increasing populations of certain weed species that are resistant to some of herbicides used for winter wheat crops. This could be controlled by a combination of agronomic, mechanical, chemical, and biological methods. After introducing winter wheat into the rotation and improving tillage, the weediness of regular black soils with perennial root and emerged weeds were significantly reduced. The formation of nodal and rudimentary roots had a significant effect on the productivity of winter wheat under different soil moisture conditions. The highest yield of winter wheat was obtained when sown at the optimum time, with higher stem density and ear productivity due to better grain fullness. We studied what effects did the tillage methods have on the aggregate state of the soil in relation to weed development in winter wheat crops, finding that the structural and aggregate composition of the soil played an important role in winter wheat crops, influencing both the development of the crop root system and the water-physical balance of the chernozem, as well as naturally influencing the course of erosion processes in the experimental plots, and having a universal dynamic in terms of adaptation of aggregation and disaggregation processes. Prolonged mechanical stress on soil can cause destruction of its structure. For instance, continuous ploughing or moldboardless tillage with little or no manure application may permanently reduce soil fertility by increasing humus mineralisation. Subsequently, these factors may cause a significant decline in the soil's structural and aggregate composition, resulting in larger amounts of dusty particles smaller than 0.25 mm and cloddy particles larger than 10–12 mm. The soil's structural condition before sowing winter wheat in early September, on average for 2011–2016, indicates increased dispersion of the tilth layer (0–10 cm) in the experimental variants where shallow disc tillage of 10–12 cm was applied. Increase in the number of clods larger than 10 mm in the areas where moldboardless tillage had been applied can be attributed to significant soil drainage. The soil's aggregate state was rated as good, with 8.7% in the 0–10 cm soil layer and 1.7% of clods > 10 mm in the 0–30 cm layer. In 2014–2016, it was rated as satisfactory, with 7.4% and 9.8% of clods > 10 mm, respectively. Shallow disc cultivation resulted in slightly worse indicators: 6.6% and 8.3% of clods > 10 mm in soil layer 0–10 cm and 0–30 cm, respectively, in 2011–2013; and 7.2% and 6.9% of clods > 10 mm, respectively, in 2014–2016. In general, the parameters of optimal structural condition were positive. The tillage method used had a considerable effect on weed growth and development, particularly for those with a root and rhizome structure. It also affected the prevalence and development of pests and diseases in winter wheat. Agrotechnical methods of weed control do not guarantee complete destruction of weeds. Mechanical moldboardless tillage to the depth of 14–16 cm and disc tillage to the depth of 10–12 cm left the fields with 4.1 to 8.8 annual weeds per square meter and 1.3 to 3.3 specimens of harmful root weeds such as Convolvulus arvensis, Lactuca tatarica and Cirsium arvense. Mechanical moldboardless tillage to the depth of 14–16 cm and disc tillage to the depth of 10–12 cm left the fields with 4.1 to 8.8 annual weeds per square meter and 1.3 to 3.3 specimens of harmful root weeds such as Convolvulus arvensis, Lactuca tatarica and Cirsium arvense. Post-harvest residues (4–5 t/ha) can provide almost complete protection against weeds by covering the soil surface. However, pests and diseases may spread more easily due to preservation of fungal spores on the surface of plant residues and preservation of pest larvae in the straw and soil. The distribution of weed seeds in the soil was altered when the rotational tillage of common chernozems in winter wheat cultivation technology had been replaced with energy–saving minimum tillage (shallow flat-cutting disc tillage). This resulted in the concentration of most of the weed seeds (85–90%) in the upper soil layer (0–10 cm).

Relevance. Innovations in modern greenhouse complexes necessitate the creation of new technological cucumber hybrids for them, an important component of which is their comprehensive assessment in production conditions.Materials and methods. In 2023, experiments were conducted in the Krymsk (Krasnodar Territory) SC “Gavrish” with 9 new parthenocarpic hybrids of cucumber F1 smooth type in 2 repetitions of 10 plants each. Hybrids were grown in a winter greenhouse under light culture conditions in winter-spring and summer-autumn rotations. The technology of growing the crop is maintained in accordance with the requirements adopted in the V light zone. The assessment of economically valuable features was carried out according to generally accepted methods.Results. The early and total yields, marketability of the grown hybrids in two crop rotations, the degree of their resistance to real powdery mildew and adaptability of cultivation in crop rotations have been established. A comparative assessment of the potential of new hybrids with the generally accepted F1 analogue of Meva in the region has been carried out.Conclusions. The new parthenocarpic smooth-fruited cucumber hybrids of GC “Gavrish” F1 Metreng, Model 4560/19, Model 166/20 can act as an import substitution.

The anatomical, physiological, and environmental changes of plants can alter the production of essential oil. The present study aims to characterize the profit and chemical constituents of Lavandula dentata L and Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oils (EO), grown under conditions of stress by solar, water and soil radiation. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used in triplicate. The biomass analysis showed that in both plants, the best results were obtained when it was subjected to lighting, shading and 100% fertilization, but there was the lowest profit of EO. The portion that had the lowest biomass, showed the highest profit of EO. In the EO of Lavandula dentata L there were as major compounds: nerol, linalol and Myrcene, respectively, as the product with the lowest profit, eucalyptol stood out, followed by camphor and fenchone. The EO of Rosmarinus officinalis L with the lowest profit showed alpha-pinene as the major constituent, followed by camphor, 1.8 cineol, alpha-Terpinolene and linalol, and the EO with the highest profit was caryophyllene. The constituents of the EO showed different results when comparing the products obtained from the highest and lowest profit, both qualitatively and quantitatively, which shows that plants under different stress conditions affect the production of these secondary compounds, which may indicate differences in pharmacological actions.

Garlic cultivation holds significant importance in Brazil. However, research on garlic crops is currently limited and outdated, highlighting the necessity for new studies, particularly focused on enhancing weed management and optimizing the use of agricultural inputs. This study aimed to assess the extent of yield losses attributed to weed interference and the specific periods during which weed interference impacts garlic crop yields in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. The experiments were conducted in Curitibanos, Santa Catarina State, Brazil, during 2019 and 2020, using the garlic cultivars Chonan and Ito, respectively. A randomized block experimental design was employed, consisting of 16 treatment groups with four replications. The design incorporated a 2×8 factorial arrangement, involving two weed management strategies (coexistence and control) and eight crop-weed coexistence periods (0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 130 days after crop emergence – DAE). The study evaluated the weed community and recorded data on the number of bulbs, bulb diameter, as well as total and commercial bulb yields of garlic crops. The results indicated average losses of 24.3% in total bulb yield and 28.9% in commercial bulb yield. Critical periods for effective weed control were identified as 6 to 126 DAE in 2019, 5 to 126 DAE in 2020 for total yield, 3 to 126 DAE in 2019, and 5 to 126 DAE in 2020 for commercial bulb yield. Consequently, it is imperative to maintain garlic crops weed-free throughout most of their growth cycle.

The wet (rain, snow, fog, sleet, dew) and dry (transport of aerosol, particles and gases) deposition of acidic substance in environment results due to human, automobile, fossil fuel burning and industrial activities. Acid deposition is worldwide environmental degradation problems and in recent years these acidic materials are increasing at alarming scale in the environment both in developed and developing countries, including Pakistan. Some scientific literature survey reports suggest that plant growth and agriculture yield decrease due to consequence of acid rain. In addition, acid rain is found responsible for producing toxic effects on the morphological parameters of agricultural crop. The evidence collected from last more than fifty years showed the common significant effects of acid rain on seed germination percentage, seedling height, root hair and structure, alteration in leaf anatomy, size and area, stomatal structure, size, pollen germination, photosynthetic pigments and physiological changes in herbs, shrubs and trees. Still, little is known on the impact of acid rain on plant growth. This study was aimed to review the effects of acid mist on growth performances of some selected plant species. This review is contributed with the help of literature survey, research work published on the impact of acid rain on the plant growth.

Context: Knowledge gaps exist for the interference of Avena ludoviciana and Argemone mexicana in chickpea grown in eastern Australia. Aims: This research aimed to examine the effect of different interference levels of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana for their potential to cause yield loss in chickpea. Methods: Experiments were conducted in a randomised complete block design with five weed infestation levels of both weeds (none, low, medium, high, and very high) in three replications. Key results: Infestations of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana at 15 and 17 plants m−2 caused an 83 and 48% reduction in chickpea yield, respectively, compared with weed-free situations. Based on the regression model, a 50% yield reduction of chickpea occurred at 10 and 17 plants m−2 of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana , respectively. Based on the modified hyperbolic model, maximum seed production of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana in chickpea at an infestation level of 1 plant m−2 was estimated at 366 and 7800 seeds m−2, respectively. At crop harvest, seed retention of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana was greater than 50 and 90%, respectively. Conclusions: A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana infestation in chickpea caused a substantial reduction in crop yield. High seed retention in A. mexicana and A. ludoviciana in chickpea suggests the possibility to manage these two weeds through harvest weed seed control. Implications: The information generated from this study could help in strengthening integrated weed management in chickpea. Knowledge gaps exist for the interference of Avena ludoviciana and Argemone mexicana in chickpea in Australia. About 50% yield reduction of chickpea occurred at 10 and 17 plants m−2 of A. ludoviciana and A. mexicana , respectively. High seed retention in A. mexicana and A. ludoviciana in chickpea suggests the possibility to manage these two weeds through harvest weed seed control for strengthening integrated weed management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlled-release fertilizers have been increasingly used. This study aimed to evaluate and adapt new technologies applied via soil for sustainable coffee production, in order to generate information that contribute to the technical innovation of the crop for the Vale do Ribeira region. The experiment was set at UNESP, in Registro – SP. The experimental design was in randomized blocks. The experiment consisted of eight treatments with four replications, with plots of six plants. Four doses (200, 300, 400 and 500 kg ha-1) of a mixed fertilizer 20-05-20 were used, with controlled release in six months, intended for coffee trees in formation and production, compared to the dose of 500 kg ha-1 of the conventional mixed fertilizer 20-05-20, ammonium sulfate and calcium nitrate with boron, in addition to a control treatment, which did not receive NPK fertilization. The cultivar used was ‘Obatã IAC 1669’ in 3.0 x 0.6 m spacing. The following characteristics were evaluated: number of plagiotropic branches, number of nodes of plagiotropic branches, stem diameter, plant height and yield, in two harvest periods, besides the surface chemical characteristic of the soil. Increasing the dose of the slow-release fertilizer leads to greater plant growth; the coffee plant presents a highly responsive behavior to the increase in fertilizer doses in relation to nitrogen, and the use of the slow-release fertilizer Agroblen (20-05-20) 100% and ammonium sulfate + SS + KCl allows greater yield.

A field experiment was conducted at Bangladesh Agricultural University farm, Mymensingh, Bangladesh, during the Boro season, 2017 with six different K fertilizer rates: 0, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 kg ha-1 to determine the optimum rate of potassium (K) fertilization for the improved yield of a specific rice variety in the irrigated ecosystem under floodplain area. Compared with no K fertilizer, adding K increased the rice grain and straw yields significantly, with all other yield contributing components, except 1000-grain weight. The highest yield of grain (7.07 ton ha-1) and straw (8.48 ton ha-1) were recorded in recommended fertilizer dose (RFD) of NPS + 50kg K treatment, which were statistically identical with RFD of NPS + 40 kg K. Rice grain and straw yields due to the different treatments increased by 18.65% to 53.74% and 18.67% to 53.78%, respectively over control. K content and uptake through grain and straw were significantly influenced by applying different levels of K. These results specified that the use of 40 kg K ha-1 had better performance on the grain and straw yields. Therefore, we conclude that the application of 40 kg K ha-1 along with the RFD of NPS for BRRI dhan29 cultivation is the best option for higher yield in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain soil.

Sunflower is sensitive to boron (B) and zinc (Zn) deficiency when grown on deficient soil, A field experiment was conducted to determine the main and interactive effects of soil applied Zn and B on total production of sunflower at Agronomic Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. Experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBI) with factorial arrangement using three replications with net plot size of 6 m x 4.5 m. The soil application of variable levels of Zn (0, 10, 20 and 30 kg ha-1) and B (0, 1, 2 and 3 kg ha-1) in the form of zinc sulphate and boric acid, respectively were applied at time of sowing. All other agronomic and plant protection practices were kept uniform. The data regarding growth, yield and quality parameters were noted by using standard procedures. Results showed that Zn @ 20 kg ha-1 and B @ 3 kg ha-1 significantly increased the number of plants per plot at harvest, stem diameter, head diameter, number of achenes per head, 1000-achene weight, biological yield and days to maturity, achene yield kg per, harvest index, leaf concentrations or Zn at heading stage, leaf concentrations of B at heading stage (ppm), achene oil content (%), achene protein contents as compared to control. This study concluded that higher growth and yield of sunflower can be achieved by application of Zn at 20 kg ha-1 and B at 3 kg ha-1 under Faisalabad conditions.

The physiological mechanisms of shade tolerance and trait plasticity variations under shade remain poorly understood in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Twenty-five genotypes of rice were evaluated under open and shade conditions. Various parameters to identify variations in the plasticity of these traits in growth irradiance were measured. We found wide variations in specific leaf weight (SLW) and net assimilation rate measured at 400 µmol m−2 s−1 photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD; referred to as A 400) among the genotypes. Under shade, tolerant genotypes maintained a high rate of net photosynthesis by limiting specific leaf weight accompanied by increased intercellular CO2 concentration (C i) compared with open-grown plants. On average, net photosynthesis was enhanced by 20% under shade, with a range of 2–30%. Increased accumulation of biomass under shade was observed, but it showed no correlation with photosynthetic plasticity. Chlorophyll a / b ratio also showed no association with photosynthetic rate and yield. Analysis of variance showed that 11%, 16%, and 37% of the total variance of A 400, SLW, and C i were explained due to differences in growth irradiance. SLW and A 400 plasticity in growth irradiance was associated with yield loss alleviation with R 2 values of 0.37 and 0.16, respectively. Biomass accumulation was associated with yield loss alleviation under shade, but no correlation was observed between A 400 and leaf-N concentration. Thus, limiting specific leaf weight accompanied by increased C i rather than leaf nitrogen concentration might have allowed rice genotypes to maintain a high net photosynthesis rate per unit leaf area and high yield under shade. Plasticity in photosynthesis and specific leaf weight (SLW) are traits that allow shade-tolerant rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes to alleviate yield loss under shade. This was achieved by a reduction in SLW with increased intercellular CO2 concentration (C i). Leaf nitrogen did not influence photosynthesis rate under shade, but an accumulation of biomass was associated with yield. Limiting SLW with increased C i is the principal strategy to alleviate loss in photosynthesis and yield under low light intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays L.), a major multipurpose crop for food, feed and energy is extremely susceptible to environmental perturbations and setting off the major factors for limiting maize yield. Generally, plant yields are reduced and significantly lost to adverse environments and biotic strains. To ensure the safety of living cells under unfavourable circumstances, polyamines (PAs) play an important role in regulating the response under both abiotic and biotic stresses. It is the relative abundance of higher PAs (spermidine, Spd; spermine, Spm) vis-à-vis the diamine putrescine (Put) and PA catabolism that determines the stress tolerance in plants. Climate changes and increasing demands for production of maize have made it pressing to improve the stress tolerance strategies in this plant and it is imperative to understand the role of PAs in response to various environmental perturbations. Here, we critically review and summarise the recent literature on role of PAs in conferring stress tolerance in the golden crop. The responses in terms of PA accumulation, their mechanism of action and all the recent genetic manipulation studies carried out in PA metabolism pathway, ameliorating range of abiotic and biotic stresses have been discussed. As PA metabolism under stress conditions does not operate singly within cells and is always linked to other metabolic pathways in maize, its complex connections and role as a signalling molecule have also been discussed in this review. Maize (Zea mays L.), a major multipurpose crop for food and energy, is susceptible to environmental alterations. As a part of survival strategy, maize responds to different environmental stresses by changing its physiology and biochemistry equations in the cell. Polyamine metabolism is one such ways by which maize overcomes various environmental stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium wilt (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli) is one of the most common diseases in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) crop, and the most viable alternative for its control is the use of resistant cultivars. However, the number of “carioca” cultivars, the most important commercial group in Brazil, which has a good level of resistance to this disease, is still low. To obtain populations with a higher degree of resistance, seven parents with different levels of resistance to Fusarium and which produce carioca grains were crossed in a complete diallel design. The 21 segregating populations obtained were evaluated in the years/generations 2012/F3, 2013/F4, and 2014/F5 in experiments in Santo Antônio de Goiás, GO, in the winter crop season (sowing in May), together with the check cultivars BRS Notável (resistant) and BRS Cometa (susceptible) in an area naturally infested with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. phaseoli, under a center pivot irrigation system. Reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight were evaluated. Additive and non-additive effects contributed to control of reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight. The statistically negative general combining ability ( ) estimates for BRS Notável (-0.51), CNFC 15872 (-0.20), IPR Juriti (-0.18), and BRSMG Talismã (-0.13) indicate that these parents are recommended for obtaining populations more resistant to Fusarium wilt. Among them, cultivar BRS Notável also showed a statistically positive estimate for grain yield (87.90). Among the parents recommended for resistance to Fusarium wilt, cultivars IPR Juriti (0.99) and BRS Notável (0.23) are those that most contributed to obtaining populations with larger-sized beans. Cultivar BRS Notável is the most promising parent for participation in new crossing blocks, showing non-zero estimates for all traits, favoring an increase in resistance to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight. Populations BRS Notável / CNFC 15872, BRS Ametista / BRS Notável, BRS Notável / BRSMG Talismã, and BRS Ametista / BRSMG Talismã showed good mean values for reaction to Fusarium wilt, yield, and 100-seed weight and at least one parent with a good general combining ability estimate for resistance to Fusarium wilt. These four populations are promising for obtaining lines with superior performance for resistance to Fusarium wilt, yield, and larger-sized grains.

Potassium (K) participates in critical processes in sunflower cultivation, such as osmotic regulation and translocation of photosynthesis. However, the absorption or accumulation of this nutrient occurs differently owing to edaphoclimatic factors or between cultivars. The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional efficiency of sunflower cultivars as a function of different dosage K dosages in a semiarid region. To this end, two experiments were conducted in 2016 and 2017. The treatments consisted of five dosages of K at 0, 30, 60, 90, and 120 kg ha-1 K2O and four sunflower cultivars, Aguará 6, Altis 99, Multissol, and BRS 122. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replications and subdivided plots. The characteristics evaluated were agronomic efficiency, physiological efficiency, recovery efficiency, utilization efficiency, and accumulation of total K in the plant. Sunflower cultivars responded to K dosages in the two crops, with variations in efficiency parameters. Crop 2 showed better nutritional efficiency compared to crop 1. Aguará 6 showed greater nutritional efficiency than the other two crops. The use of dosages between 75 and 91 kg ha-1 of K2O provided better efficiency in K usage for the cultivars.

Context: Establishment of true heterotic pattern in maize germplasm can increase the efficiency of hybrid breeding. Heterosis is dependent on the genetic diversity of parents and the extent of dominance at different loci. Estimation of genetic diversity through use of molecular markers is routine practice in maize breeding. Aims: The present study was designed to test whether simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to yield-contributing traits are more reliable for heterotic grouping than random SSRs. Methods: Diallel crosses developed among 19 inbred lines were evaluated at multi-locations. The genotypes were also grouped using polymorphic random (50) and linked (47) SSRs. Key results: The crosses generated with lines belonging to different heterotic groups of linked SSR markers did not reveal any superiority over the crosses of the diallel set. By contrast, mean performance of inter-heterotic group crosses generated on the basis of random markers was superior to that of intra-heterotic crosses. Specific combining ability effects did not reveal any significant association with genetic distance of random or linked markers. Conclusions: The lack of improved efficiency of linked markers over random markers can be attributed to factors including the quantitative nature of the trait, genotype × environment interactions, genetic background of germplasm in which the markers are expressed, and multiple alleles. Implications: Markers linked to yield-contributing traits are no more reliable for heterotic grouping than random markers. Establishment of true heterotic pattern in maize germplasm can increase the efficiency of hybrid breeding, and therefore, it is useful to compare efficiency of SSRs linked to yield-related traits with that of random SSRs for heterotic grouping. Mean performance of inter-heterotic group crosses generated on the basis of random markers was superior to that of intra-heterotic crosses. Specific combining ability effects did not reveal significant association with genetic distance of random or linked markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was undertaken during the spring growing season of 2020 at the experimental farm Qalamurtga- Erbil with GPS reading of (Latitude 36o 20ʹ 53.81" N, altitude 44o06ʹ 20.76 ") to study the effect of three Niger cultivars (Bengalnuglue, Karal and Animax), two plant density (45 and 60cm) between rows and three levels of humic acid (0 ,350 and 700) mg L-1 on Niger (Guizotia abyssinicia Cass.) growth, yield and its component and yield using factorial RCBD with three replicates. The results indicated to recording the highest seed yield values (547.46 ,549.04 and 664.74) kg ha-1 for Animax cultivar, 45cm distance between rows and spraying of 700mg L-1 humic acid respectively. The combination between Animax cultivar – 45cm distance between rows -700mg L-1 humic acid (C3 × G1 × HA2) recorded the highest value for seed yield kg ha-1 which was (759.06) kg ha-1.

Soybean is one of the most important leguminous crops due to its high oil and protein content with a significant role in nutrition. Micronutrients for soybean growth and development are very important and foliar fertilization is used to overcome environmental stress and help soybean plants to fill their nutritive needs. The research was carried out in 2020 by the Soybean Breeding Laboratory from the Agricultural Research and Development Station in Turda, Romania. Foliar fertilization had both positive and negative effects for 1000-grain weight and yield however, quality traits do not seem to be influenced by applying supplement of microelements during the vegetation period. The research suggests that genotype is the determining factor in the efficiency of foliar fertilization. In this sense, the present experiment will continue to bring answers regarding the effects of foliar fertilizers on some soybean genotypes.

Crop productivity is limited by several environmental constraints. Among these, micronutrients availability to plants plays a key role in agricultural crops production. Boron is an important micronutrient for crops and it significantly aids in a grain setting. Soil applied boron become unavailable to plant due to fixation in soil sites and cause nutrients deficiency in plants, immature grain settings, and yield reduction. Thus, the aim of this work was to quantify the impact of the foliar application of boron gradients on the yield and growth of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Five treatments were studied, which included; T1= Control (0% B), T2 = 0.5% B, T3 = 1% B, T4 =1.5% B, and T5 =2% B. The results indicated that foliar application of B significantly increased the yield and growth traits in barley. However, 2% foliar application of B showed the highest value for all studied traits including; plant height (5.6%), number of tillers per plant (2.4%), spike length (32%), weight gain per spike (6.2%), seed index (6%), grain yield (10%), and biological yield (4%). Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the foliar application of B at 2% can be used to improve the growth and yield in barley.

ABSTRACT Phosphorus (P) is an important nutrient for obtaining high yields and has been the one that most often limits production. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance of onion cultivars as a function of phosphate fertilization. The experiments were installed at the Rafael Fernandes Experimental Farm, of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region, Mossoró-RN, Brazil, from July to October 2016 and from June to October 2017. The design used was randomized blocks, in a 2 x 6 factorial scheme, with four replicates. The treatments consisted of the combination of two onion cultivars (IPA11 and Rio das Antas) and six P doses (0, 60, 120, 180, 240 and 300 kg ha-1 P2O5). The economical doses of P, associated with the maximum marketable yields of onion were estimated at 212.45 and 207.65 kg ha-1 of P2O5, respectively for the cultivars IPA 11 and Rio das Antas. In general, the cultivar Rio das Antas was more productive than IPA 11, in the two growing periods.

Context: Salinity is a major cause of yield loss in wheat globally. Aims and Methods: To investigate the potential of silicon to minimise the effect of salinity in wheat, experiments were conducted using outdoor pots subjected to seven salinity treatments. Silicon (as potassium silicate K2SiO3) was applied as both a priming agent and foliar spray. Selected response functions were used to quantify wheat response to salinity as affected by silicon application. Key results: Concentration of chlorophyll a , chlorophyll b and carotenoid decreased by 4.2, 3.6 and 1.4 mg/g FW respectively with increasing salinity up to an electrical conductivity of 14 dS/m. Increasing salinity levels increased maximum variable chlorophyll fluorescence yield in a dark-adapted state and decreased the photochemical quenching coefficient, the nonphotochemical quenching coefficient, non-photochemical quenching, actual quantum yield of PSII electron transport in the light-adapted state, and the apparent photosynthetic electron transport rate. The maximal efficiency of PSII photochemistry in the dark-adapted state was not significantly influenced by salinity. The response functions showed that the salinity threshold value and the salinity at which a given trait was reduced by 50% (EC50) were 5.7 and 12.1 dS/m, respectively. Conclusions: The combined treatment of silicon (priming × foliar spray) was found to be the most effective, increasing salinity threshold value and EC50 by 32 and 2% respectively. Implications: These findings give insight into the effects of salinity on wheat and demonstrate the potential of silicon applications to promote crop health in saline environments. Salinity is amongst the most significant environmental factors responsible for substantial losses in agricultural production worldwide, and it is one of the serious problems confronting sustainable agriculture in irrigated production systems in arid and semiarid regions. Productivity of wheat in salt-affected regions due to saline ground water and soil can be improved by use of supplemental nutrition such as silicon. The improved silicon-derived benefits in wheat will be helpful to develop a more sustainable cropping system in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biodegradable films are a valuable and sustainable alternative to plastic films for mulching soils since they avoid the environmental and economic problems related to plastic removal and disposal. Nevertheless, the fast degradation of such materials could make them unsuitable for mid- to long-term use. In a field experiment, the agronomic performance of a biodegradable mulching film (MB) was compared to that of conventional low-density polyethylene (LDPE) film for two consecutive lettuce cycles (winter and spring). In the conditions of this trial, MB showed good resistance to atmospheric agents, with a reduction of its integrity and mechanical properties only after six months. The effects on soil temperature and lettuce yield did not differ from those obtained with LDPE films. The effect on harvest timing was the same as that with LDPE in the spring cycle, while in the winter cycle, the harvest was delayed by about five days compared to LDPE. Mulching films reduced nitrate accumulation in leaves mainly during the winter cycle. However, the effect needs to be further explored with experiments in different pedoclimatic conditions that consider the effects of mulching on nitrification and nitrate-reductase activity that could be affected by changes in soil temperature and moisture. Highlights - Biodegradable mulching films (MB) showed good mechanical resistance in the medium-long term (2 consecutive lettuce cycles). - Decrease in integrity and resistance to tearing became significant after 150-170 days. - The effect of MB on lettuce yield quantity and quality was comparable with that using low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films. - The effects of both mulching films on leaf nitrate content need further research in different pedoclimatic conditions. - MB can be recommended since it reduces the economic and environmental costs of removal and disposal of LDPE films.

The question of the spray volume for applying agrochemicals to plants has and still demands studies to continuously search for guiding parameters for technicians due to the several variables involving application technology. This experiment aimed to determine the best spray volume for applying pesticides with a boom sprayer to soybean (Glycine max) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) crops. The experiment had a completely randomized blocks design with five treatments and five replications. In soybean (crop year 2011/12), the treatments were the control (no pesticide application) and spray volume applications of 50, 100, 150, and 200 L ha-1. For wheat (crop year 2012), the treatments were the control and spray volumes of 75, 100, 125, and 150 L ha-1. The variables analyzed were the yield components. The study concluded the need for applying foliar fertilizers and performing the chemical control of diseases and pests in soybean and wheat crops. The spray volumes of 50 L ha-1 for soybeans and 75 L ha-1 for wheat were satisfactory for spraying agrochemicals with a ground bar sprayer on plants.

This study was aimed to investigate the response of some wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) landraces to three irrigation sources, freshwater (FW), well water (WW), and treated municipal wastewater (TMW), regarding the impact on growth, yield, and grains elements contents. The results showed that the various wheat landraces irrigated with treated wastewater were significantly taller (117.3 cm) with multi tillers (22 tiller plant-1), had maximum spikes per plant (2.6), and longer weighty spikes (14.5 cm & 12.1 g). Landraces L1(Burr), L2 (Baldy Burr), C7 (Yecora Rojo), had maximum tillers, L4 (Alssamaa Burr), L5 (Bahaal Burr), L7 (Yecora Rojo) had more spikes per plant and the longer weighty spikes were recorded in L5 Baldy Burr, L1(Burr), heavy spikes were reported in L5 (Bahaal Burr) and L1(Burr). Moreover, these landraces had the highest yield per plant and 1000 grains weight (49.8 g, 12.5 g) respectively. The N, P, K, and Mg contents were increased under TMW, and their levels in landraces and cultivars in order are 3>L2>L4>L5>L1>C6>C7. Even Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn levels were higher in various landraces irrigated with TMW, however, L3, L2, and L4 had maximum contents of all microelements. TMW irrigation enhanced growth, yield, and grain quality in terms of essential elements. The irrigation of landraces L1, L4, L5 with TMW may be a feasible alternative for sustainable wheat production and safe water in arid regions such as Saudi Arabia.

Context: Heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) has been suggested as an effective biomarker to assess heat stress in livestock. Milk sampling being a non-invasive procedure in cows, the detection of HSP70 in milk would be beneficial for heat-stress studies in cows. Aims: The objective of the present study was to optimise an ELISA system to detect HSP70 in cow's milk and to assess its application in quantifying HSP70 in milk collected during two different weather conditions (hot and mild) and from two production groups (low and high yielding). Methods: Foremilk samples were collected from 48 Holstein-Friesian cows under two different weather conditions (hot, n = 25 and mild, n = 23) and from two production groups (low yielding, n = 15 and high yielding, n = 33). Milk HSP70 was measured using a newly optimised, competitive in-house ELISA. The assay validation parameters (i.e. dilutional linearity, parallelism, recovery rate, intra-assay and inter-assay precision) were computed. Key results: The minimum detection limit and the sensitivity range of the ELISA were 125 ng/mL and 125–4000 ng/mL respectively. The HSP70 concentrations in cow's milk ranged from 536.88 to 1532.04 ng/mL. There were weak negative correlations (P < 0.05; n = 48) between HSP70 concentration and milk yield, calculated on either a per cow per day (r = −0.39), per cow per am or pm milking (r = −0.29), or per cow per quarter (r = −0.35) basis. Estimated marginal mean (EMM) HSP70 mass (HSP concentration × milk yield) in milk was higher during hot weather than during mild weather in all three of the above yield calculations (P < 0.0001). An increased (P < 0.05) EMM HSP70 mass was found in high-yielding group compared with low-yielding group when yield calculation was based on per cow per quarter. Conclusions: A sensitive ELISA system was optimised to quantify HSP70 in cow's milk. Higher milk HSP70 masses were found in milk samples collected during hot weather and from high-yielding cows. Implications: The assay of HSP70 in milk is a useful tool for non-invasive detection of heat stress in cows. Further studies to measure HSP70 in milk samples collected from the same individual cows during different seasons would be needed to better explain and to confirm these findings. Heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels in body fluids have been measured to assess heat stress in many animal species. The HSP70 is yet to be detected in cow's milk and this study optimised a sensitive enzyme immunoassay (ELISA) to quantify HSP70 in cow's milk. The HSP70 masses were higher in cow's milk samples taken during hot weather and collected from high-yielding animals. The assay of HSP70 in milk would be a useful tool for non-invasive detection of heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The move towards higher production of quality crops with alternative land use systems i.e. agri-horticulture system in combination with adequate supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sulphur and improved varietal selection can solve the problem of lower productivity. Consequently, the present study illustrated that selection of crop varieties according to land use system with balanced nutrients supply can optimize the crop production in sustainable manner. The study showed that the performance of crop with different varietal selection was influenced by the different levels of nutrients supply. The growth and yield parameters were significantly affected with the application of 60, 30, 30, 30 kg of N, P2O5, K2O and S/ha and produced significantly higher seed yield (675 kg/ha) as compared to 40, 20, 20, 20 kg of N, P2O5, K2O and S/ ha and 20, 10, 10, 10 kg of N, P2O5, K2O, and S/ha among various fertility levels.

This research is related to the performance evaluation of twelve Coffea arabica cultivars in Vale do Ribeira Paulista, in order to generate consistent information for the technical recommendation for cultivation in the region. The experiment was set in February 2018, at the Experimental Campus of the São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” - UNESP in Registro, SP, Brazil, in a spacing of 3.00x0.60 m, in a randomized block design with three replications. The following parameters were evaluated: stem diameter, number of plagiotropic branches, plant height, number of internodes of plagiotropic branches, length of the first plagiotropic branch, incidence of brown spots and phoma leaf spot, infestation by leaf miner and yield. The results showed a good adaptation of all cultivars to growing conditions in Vale do Ribeira Paulista, with higher and faster vegetative development of large coffee cultivars. The productive potential of cultivars in the first harvest was similar to the performance of the same cultivars in traditional growing regions, with emphasis on ‘Arara’ and ‘Catucaí Amarelo 24/137’, with about 55 bags ha-1 of processed coffee. There was no incidence of rust disease in the experimental evaluation period, unlike other biotic agents such as leaf miner, phoma-spot and brown eye spot.

Garlic is quite common in all climatic zones of the Ukraine, but the increase in production of this valuable crop is largely extensive, due to the increased area. The phenotypic variability of morphometric features and the adaptive capacity of varieties and collections of garlic of winter of different ecological and geographical origin are analyzed. As a result of studying the variability of biometric indicators, it was founded that the greatest differences between varieties by indicators of leaf width – V=15.6 % (over the years 17.1–22.8 %), height of scape – V=28.2 % (over the years 17.4–29.3 %) and number of air bulbs in inflorescence – V=68.3 % (over the years 67.0–70.8 %). It is noted that using the modern intensive cultivars of Lubasha and Khando provides the formation of winter garlic yield at the level of 16.0–18.9 t/ha (+5.3–8.2 t/ha) and the use of promising variety samples No. 1, 5, 6, 13, 19 and No. 21 will provide yield at the level of 14.6–19.4 t/ha (+3.9–8.7 t/ha). It was found that the intensive cultivars of winter garlic of Lubasha (Total Adaptive Capacity=2.42), Dushes (Total Adaptive Capacity=4.63) and Khando (Total Adaptive Capacity=5.70) were the most adaptable. The most adaptive variety samples were No. 6 (Total Adaptive Capacity=6.29), No. 13 (Total Adaptive Capacity=4.12), No. 5 (Total Adaptive Capacity=3.22), and variety samples with high breeding value of the genotype should be used for further breeding and high phenotypic of the yield stability. The results obtained will allow qualitative selection and evaluation of initial forms for further breeding for adaptability and to create cultivars for specific soil and climatic conditions.

A field experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma to investigate the effect of brewery spent grain on the growth and yield of sorghum. Treatment consisted of five rates of brewery spent grain (BSG) (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 t/ha). The experiment was a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates. Sorghum variety (ABS 4540 AMZU) was used as a test crop. The parameters measured included: plant height, leaf area, number of leaves/plant at 3, 6 and 9 weeks after planting (WAP). Whole plant dry matter yield and grain weight were also determined. The results obtained showed that BSG treatments had significantly (P

The winter rye, as well as to other crops of continuous sowing which effectively suppress weeds in organic farming possesses a special role. This culture is sensitive to the competition of weeds only at early stages of development. Starting from phase of shooting it acts as an important factor of counteraction of a weed invasion in the field. The problem of our researches consisted of studying the contamination degree of a winter rye crops which was grown up without use of fertilizers and means of plants protection, depending on main ways of tillage in a crop rotation. On the basis of 3-year-old observations it was established that at prolonged use of moldboardless main ways of tillage the contamination of crops at a seedling stage of a winter rye significantly grew – by 55.1 % at usual and for 36.7 % at small moldboardless tillage in comparison with moldboard tillage. At the same time, the air-dry mass of weeds was higher on 27.7 and 43.0 % concerning control, respectively. For harvesting period of culture on option of usual moldboardless tillage to depth 18–20 cm quantity of weeds for 46 %, and on option of small moldboardless – for 30.2 % was higher, than on plowing. The greatest contamination by weeds of crops for observation years is recorded at continuous moldboardless tillage on depth of 18–20 cm. The analysis of group structure showed significant dominance of the wintering and winter weeds over other groups irrespective of a main tillage way, though the increasing tendency of summer late and rootstock weeds part at usual moldboardless is traced. The winter rye successfully competed with weeds. Phytosanitary inspection of fields did not record oppression of culture before grain-harvesting works. On the best areas of soil fertility which were created at prolonged use of usual and small moldboardless main ways of tillage the productivity was higher on 1.7 and 3.9 c/hectare or 9.3 and 21.2 %, respectively in comparison with control. Perspectives of further researches are connected with specification of a winter rye productivity models which is grown up in the system of traditional and organic farming.

Understanding the relationship between durum wheat genotypes and soil biochemistry under salt stress plays a key role in breeding for yield superior genotypes. Thus, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN), the activity of three selected enzymes including dehydrogenase (D-ase), alkaline phosphatase (Alk-ase) and protease (P-ase), and available phosphorus (available P) and nitrogen (available N) were assessed. Two landraces and two improved varieties were tested under two salinity levels of water irrigation (0.3 and 12 dS m–1). Soil sampling was carried out at five durum wheat growth stages. The soil biota-genotype interaction seems to affect the biological (MBC, MBN, and enzymatic activities) and chemical (available P and N) traits. The microbial activity of rhizospheric soil was higher at the tillering and flowering stages. Under saline conditions, ‘Maali’ (improved variety) and ‘Agili Glabre’ (landrace) showed the best belowground inputs (e.g., MBC, MBN, enzymatic activities, available P and N) and grain yield (GY) performance. Under the same conditions, four soil biochemical indicators of GY of tolerant genotypes (i.e., ‘Maali’ and ‘Agili Glabre’) were determined as: available N, P-ase, available P, Alk-ase, and D-ase. Stepwise analysis revealed that predictive variables depended on growth stages. Overall, MBC, available N, Alk-ase, and P-ase were the variables that contributed mostly to predicting GY in saline environments. In conclusion, the results suggested a specific interaction between plant genotype roots and soil microbes to overcome salt stress. Thus, soil biological components should acquire more importance in plant salinity tolerance studies. Highlights - Salt-tolerant durum wheat genotypes showed greater microbial activities in the rhizosphere. - Microbial enzymatic changes depended on the interaction plant genotype × soil salinity. - The MBC/MBN ratio and dehydrogenase strongly correlated with grain yield under salinity. - MBC, available N, and alkaline phosphatase as predictors of grain yield at 12 dS m–1. - Tillering and flowering could be key stages of durum wheat salinity tolerance.

Soybean is currently one of the most important agricultural crops being used in human and animal nutrition, as a raw material for industry but also has agro-phyto-technical importance because it contributes to the raising of soil fertility by fixing atmospheric nitrogen by symbiosis between soybeans and Rhizobium japonicum bacteria, which forms root-nodules. To achieve the aims, a poly-factorial experience has been placed during the period 2015-2017 at ARDS Turda, with the factors: Factor A - the tillage system (a1 the classical tillage system by plowing with the return of the furrow and a2 the minimum tillage system, chisel variant; factor B- the fertilization (b1-N20P20K0 100 kg/ha, applied simultaneously with sowing, b2-N20P20K0 100 kg/ha, applied simultaneously with the sowing + N20P20K0 100 kg/ha, applied in the 4-6 leaves phenophase, b3-N20P20K0 100 kg/ha applied simultaneously with sowing + N30 100 kg/ha, applied in the 4-6 leaves phenophase and b4-N20P20K0 100 kg/ha applied simultaneously with sowing + N20 100 kg/ha, applied in the 4-6 leaves phenophase, factor C-climatic conditions in the experimental years (c1-2015; c2-2016; c3-2017). The soybean variety studied was Malina TD. Following the application of the minimum tillage system, the yield decreases with a significant difference of 86 kg/ha compared to the conventional tillage system. A very significant influence in the yield of superior quantitative yields is fertilization, in the three variants where the supplementary fertilization was applied, there were obtained very significant yield increases of over 199 kg/ha compared to the control variant which produced a yield of 2373 kg/ha.

The influence of cutting roots on the growth and fruiting of ‘top group’ plum cultivars (‘Topfirst’, ‘Topfive’, ‘Toptaste’, ‘Tophit’ and ‘Topend Plus’), under the pedoclimatic conditions of Sînmihaiu Almasului, in the centre of Transylvania, Romania, in 2017-2018, was studied. The trees were grafted on Saint Julien rootstock, trained as Zahn Spindel and the orchard had a density of 1000 trees/ha. Roots were cut twice, at 40 cm distance from the trunk, in an angle of 45° and 30 cm depth, as followed: first time in the autumn during the fall of leaves, on one side of the row and the second time in spring, at blooming time, on the other side of the row. The measurements were done each year after the leaves have been fallen. There were made observations on some growth parameters (length of shoots, height of trees, trunk sectional area, the fruits and vegetative branches ratio) and fructification (average yield for 2017-2018 period, and was determined the productivity index). The treatments influenced the shoot growth, height of the trees, cumulative yield, trunk cross sectional area, the ratio of the yield to a trunk sectional area, with differences statistically assured. Root pruning reduced the average length of shoots. The longest shoots, in mean values, gave the unpruned root variant (131.0 cm). Root pruning decreased the average length of annual growth (51.1 cm). The biggest average trunk cross sectional area with the unpruned root system was obtained (58.7 cm2). Also root pruning influenced the height of the trees. The best cumulative yield was obtained in the variant of root pruning system (28.75 t/ha) followed by the unpruned root system (25.87 t/ha). Finally, root pruning increased productivity. The biggest value was registered in ‘Tophit’ in the root pruned variant (0.73 kg/cm2). The lowest value of productivity index was obtained in the unpruned system.

Phosphate fertilization is indispensable for carrot cultivation, as it contributes to plant development, formation of marketable roots and higher yields. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the production and nutritional efficiency of carrot cultivars under phosphate fertilization. The experiments were carried out from July to November 2016 and from June to October 2017, at the Rafael Fernandes experimental farm, District of Alagoinha, Mossoró, RN, Brazil. The experimental design was in randomized blocks, in a 4×4 factorial scheme with 4 replicates. The treatments consisted of the combination of carrot cultivars (Brasília, Planalto, Suprema and Nativa) with phosphorus (P) doses (0, 90, 180 and 270 kg ha-1 P2O5). The characteristics analyzed were: P content in the diagnostic leaf, plant dry matter, plant height, marketable and total yields, and the classification of cultivars for efficiency and response to phosphate fertilization. The increments promoted by phosphate fertilization were 64% in plant height, 444% in dry matter and 284% in marketable yield. The maximum marketable yield was obtained with doses from 186.8 to 243.5 kg ha-1, depending on the cultivar. The Native cultivar was classified as more efficient in the use of P.

The introduction of new avocado cultivars into producing countries of the Southern Hemisphere may extend the offer period of fresh fruit for export. The ‘Gem’ (‘3-29-5’) avocado is known for extending the marketing period of ‘Hass’-like avocados. This study aimed to evaluate the horticultural performance of ‘Gem’ avocado trees between the 4th and 6th years after planting (2016-2018), in a commercial orchard in the Central-Western region of the State of São Paulo, Brazil. ‘Gem’ avocado trees grafted onto seedling rootstocks were evaluated regarding tree size, shoot growth, flowering, and fruit yield, quality and maturation. In the evaluated biennium, the trees showed a strong upright growth habit and compact tree size. Flowering occurred mainly in indeterminate inflorescences. Fruit yield varied between 106.89 to 116.89 kg tree-1, and 75-91% of the fruit classified within size counts 12 (306 to 365 g/fruit) to 18 (211 to 235 g/fruit), and reached physiological maturity in late June, but could be picked until October, i.e, four to eight months later than ‘Hass’. ‘Gem’ is a new alternative for extending fruit offer of late-maturity avocado cultivars and allowing higher profit to the farmers.

Studies addressing the interaction of different spatial arrangement in soybean are needed in order to achieve management that leads to higher grain yield associated with rational seed use. The objective of this work was to evaluate the yield components and productivity of an undetermined growth type soybean as a function of different row spacing and plant densities. The treatments consisted of three row spaces (0.25, 0.35 and 0.45 m) and three plant population densities (30, 40 and 50 plants/m²). There was no interaction of row spaces and plant population on soybean yield. Regarding the overall spacing average, the grain yield of the population of 30/m² plants was higher than the productivity of the populations of 40 and 50/m² plants. The largest populations reduce plant sizes due to greater competition between plants. In addition, smaller populations promote higher individual plant yields due to the increase components of the production. This characteristic is defined as the ability of the plant to change its morphology and yield components in order to adapt to the conditions imposed by the spatial arrangement.

The Transylvanian Plain has a particular aspect, as the hilly areas are predominant and here the soil erosion phenomena through levigation are frequently encountered. The effect of water availability on yields has been thoroughly researched, being one of the main limitative factors of the winter wheat yields. Starting from these considerations, during the agricultural years 2012-2018, a bi-factorial yield test was performed at Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS) Turda, for a period of seven years. The study explored the influence of the water status under the influence of two tillage systems and the climatic conditions specific for this area on winter wheat yields. In the field conditions of Turda during experimental interval, the soil tillage system had a rather small impact on the winter wheat yields. In the conventional system (CS) a reserve of accessible water is preserved better during the spring period, this being attributed to a better infiltration into the soil of winter precipitation (snow). In the conservative system (NT), the observed trend suggests that restoration of the ground water reserve is more difficult than in the CS but the loss of water in the CS is just as fast.

Soil and plant macro nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium considered key nutrients for all kinds of the fruit crops, and proper fertilizer management is key factor for better crop growth and fruit yield. Current field experiment was laid out,to investigate the influence of various rates of NPK fertilizer on the sprouting days and overall growth of phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.).c.v Mera" under Lasbela climate conditions at Wayaro experimental farm Uthal during year 2016-2017. The field study was conducted in randomized complete block design (RCBD) included four treatments such as T1 (without fertilizer or 0 NPK), T2 (200 g plant-1), T3 (300 g plant-1) and T4 (400 g plant-1) with four replications. The results were indicated that T4 was increased days taken to sprouting (54.1%) and fruit yield plant-1(30.5%), while, days taken to flowering (36.5%) and days taken to fruit setting after flowering (13.2%) were decreased over the T1 (control) treatment. However, T2 and T3 were non-significant with each other but enhanced days taken to sprouting and fruit yield plant-1 as compared to T1. Conclusion of present study are that plant nutrition and balance fertilizer application according to plant needs and proper stage is most important factor for plant better growth and fruit yield under field experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periods of high temperature and an expected increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration as a result of global climate change are major threats to wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production. Developing heat-tolerant wheat cultivars demands improved understanding of the impacts of high temperature and elevated CO2 on plant growth and development. This research investigated the interactive effects of heat stress and CO2 concentration on pollen viability and its relationship to grain formation and yield of wheat in greenhouse conditions. Nineteen wheat genotypes and a current cultivar, Suntop, were heat stressed at either meiosis or anthesis at ambient (400 µL L–1) or elevated (800 µL L–1) CO2. Elevated CO2 and heat stress at meiosis reduced pollen viability, spikelet number and grain yield per spike; however, increased tillering at the elevated CO2 level helped to minimise yield loss. Both heat-tolerant genotypes (e.g. genotype 1, 2, 10 or 12) and heat-sensitive genotypes (e.g. genotype 6 or 9) were identified and response related to pollen sensitivity and subsequent impacts on grain yield and yield components were characterised. A high-throughput protocol for screening wheat for heat stress response at elevated CO2 was established and meiosis was the most sensitive stage, affecting pollen viability, grain formation and yield. Changing climate poses a threat to Australian wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production. Hence, there is a priority for breeding heat-tolerant wheat varieties. In this study, several heat-tolerant wheat genotypes were grown in simulated warmer climate and elevated CO2 and analysed for pollen viability, grain formation and yield. We established a protocol where pollen viability is an important trait for screening heat-tolerant wheat progenies for sustainable wheat yield at projected climate change conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Efficient water management in agriculture is an important part of the general programme on water resources preservation. This study is devoted to the determination of the effects of soil processing system and mineral fertilization on the water use efficiency and productivity of grain corn (Zea mays Linnaeus, 1753). The trials were conducted in 2017–2018 on irrigated land in the South of Ukraine. The field experiments were carried out on the experimental plots of the Institute of Irrigated Agriculture of the NAAS in four replications. We studied the following agrotechnological parameters and their combinations: Factor A – primary tillage type and depth within different tillage systems in the short crop rotation (grain corn – grain sorghum – winter wheat – soybean); Factor B – application rates of mineral fertilizers (N0P0, N120P60, N180P60). We established that the highest yield of grain accompanied by the best water use efficiency was provided by the cultivation technology with disk cultivator tillage on the depth of 8–10 cm within the differentiated tillage system in the crop rotation under the maximum nutritive background of N180P60. This agrotechnological variant resulted in a corn grain yield of 14.51 and 14.59 t/ha in 2017 and 2018 years of the study, respectively. The coefficient of water use efficiency, which is the relation of the water used by the crop to the yield, in this variant was the lowest – 39.6 and 42.0 mm/t in 2017 and 2018, respectively, which indicates the optimum response of corn grain to watering. The worst indexes of water use efficiency and corn productivity were determined in the experimental variant with disk cultivator tillage on the depth of 12–14 cm within the subsoil tillage system within the crop rotation under non-fertilized conditions. We determined that strengthening of the crop nutrition under the rational tillage system in crop rotation is helpful in optimization of the crop water use in the irrigated conditions of the South of Ukraine, which is very important in the current conditions of freshwater scarcity.

The article presents the results of studies about the effectiveness of spring barley crop cultivation with modern retriever preparations in the background of mineral fertilizers carried out in 2013–2017 on the southern bleak soils in the Ukrainian Steppe. That the options for plant nutrition significantly influenced the growth and development of spring barley varieties. So the plants were distinguished by their maximum height during the cultivation on the background of mineral fertilization and the extracorporeal fertilization of crops during the vegetation period with the Escort – bio. The processes of accumulation of crude top soil mass by spring barley plants in 2013–2017 depended on a number of factors, in particular from the weather and climatic conditions of the year, the background of nutrition, and they were the most intensive in the period of the phase of the plants’ output in the tube to the earing earing. For the cultivation of spring barley, variety Aeneas by the accumulation of raw biomass of plants in the years of research was a bit more intensive than the Adapt and Stalkerverieties. On average, over the years of research, in the control of raw biomass of plants variety Aeneas in the phase milk grains –1013 g/m2, which is 49–118 g/m2 or by 4,8–11,6 % which is more compared to the raw mass of plants of the Adapt and Stalkerverieties. The same situation was observed in the variants of the experiment. The largest amount of raw top soil mass was formed by plant Aeneas vаriety. The mineral fertilizer yield for pre-sowing cultivation in a dose of N30P30 and post-root crop fertilization with Escort-bio – 1632 g/m2 in the phase milk grains. The maximum yield of barley varieties in all years of research was formed for cultivating by the applying a moderate dose of mineral fertilizers and foliar application of crops with Organic D2 and Escort-bio. Thus, on average, over the years of research and in terms of the factor, the grain yield was 3,37–3,41 t/ha, which exceeded its level by fertilized control at 0,71–0,75 t/ha or 26,7–28,2 %, and in the background of making only mineral fertilizers – at 0,4 t/ha or 15,4 %. On average, duringthe years of research and by the factor of nutrition, the highest yield of the grain was formed by the plants of the Aeneas variety – 3,36 t/ha, which exceeded the Stalker variety by 0,21 t/ha or 6,3 %, and according to the Adapt variety – by 0,32 t/ha or 9,5 %.

Photosynthesis is one of the fundamental processes influencing crop growth and productivity. In order to understand better the basis of variation in net photosynthetic rate (PN) and yield potential in rice, two backcross populations derived from Swarna × O. nivara were studied. Gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence measurements were taken at flowering stage and data on yield traits at harvest. PN was significantly correlated with stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, mesophyll conductance, carboxylation efficiency, yield per plant (YLDP), and dry mass in both populations. Ten introgression lines (ILs) showed higher PN than their parents. IL 230S showed highest PN with increased YLDP than the remaining ILs. Single marker analysis showed RM514 and RM48 was positively associated with PN and YLDP in popA, whereas RM204 and RM122 in popB. The first 4 principal components contributed 92 and 93% to the total genetic variation in each population, respectively.

Some plants do not demand a lot of chilling hours, but methods to overcome dormancy promote more vigorous and productive plant. This study aimed to assess hydrogen cyanamide and nitrogen fertilizer with different concentration to growth and production in ‘Roxo de Valinhos’ fig tree. Two crop cycles (2015/2016 and 2016/2017) was performed in São Manuel city, São Paulo State, Brazil. Phenological and productive data was evaluated in a 2 x 5 factorial (Product x Concentration), organized in randomized complete block design, with three trees by plot. The factor products had as level hydrogen cyanamide and nitrogen fertilizer and the factor concentrations was constituted by 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4%. Furthermore, the following data was evaluated: number of days for budbreak, number of buds per plant, harvest period, branch length and diameter, leaf number, leaf area, number of fruits per plant, fruit mass, production and yield. Results indicated that both products anticipated the sprouting and promoted a higher number of buds overcome the dormancy. Plant production was higher in both cycles when the products were used (2.1 and 2.7, respectively). At last, hydrogen cyanamide showed better outcomes due to the higher number of fruits and production.

Figs consumption date back to the beginnings of civilization. Currently, consumers have become more demanding about quality of fruits, and figs are then highly indicated, since it is rich in nutrients, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. Although there is only one commercial fig cultivar that is commonly grown in Brazil, different cultivars should be considered for the diversification of fig production with regards to their yield and fruit quality. This research aimed at evaluating growth, yield, physicochemical characteristics and bioactive compounds of figs grown in Brazil. Then, four cultivars (Roxo de Valinhos, White Genova, PI-189 and Troyano) were studied to determine canopy volume, productive efficiency, soluble solids - SS, pH, titratable acidity - TA, SS/TA ratio, sugars, ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, pigments and antioxidant activity. The cv. White Genova presented the highest canopy volume, while ‘Roxo de Valinhos’, ‘PI-189’ and ‘Troyano’ performed the greatest productive efficiency. The cvs. Roxo de Valinhos, White Genova and Troyano produced fruits with higher content of SS, reducing sugars and SS/TA ratio, while the fruits of ‘PI-189’ and ‘Roxo de Valinhos’ contained the highest levels of antioxidant activity. PCA enabled to differentiate the studied cultivars, which evidenced that PI-189 was the most different of all.