Subjects -> GARDENING AND HORTICULTURE (Total: 37 journals)
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- In vivo Studies on the Effect of Warburgia ugandensis Crude Extracts
Against Bacterial wilt in Tomato Authors: Oliver Libese Lideke, Eric G. Mworia, Cynthia N. Mugo Mwenda Pages: 1 - 16 Abstract: Tomato plants are susceptible to Ralstonia solanacearum, a pathogen responsible for bacterial wilt, a severe soil-borne disease with no available cure. Warburgia ugandensis crude extract has shown biocontrol capabilities against pathogenic fungi and bacteria in animals, but data on its effectiveness in plants is limited. The current study was done to evaluate the in vivo efficacy of W. ugandensis crude extracts against R. solanacearum in tomato plants. W. ugandensis leaf and stem bark crude extracts were obtained using ethanol, methanol, hexane, and dichloromethane. The obtained crude extracts were tested against R. solanacearum in tomato at the greenhouse in triplicate. The data collected on bacterial wilt incidence, severity, stem diameter, height, and the number of branches and fruits set were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) at a 5% significance level. Tukey’s test was employed to determine significant differences between means at the same significance level. Tomato plants established in soil inoculated with R. solanacearum and treated with dichloromethane crude extract of W. ugandensis stem bark showed no sign of bacterial wilt disease and were comparable to the positive control. Tomato plants established in soil inoculated with R. solanacearum but treated with W. ugandensis leaf ethanol crude extract had the highest average height of 62.50 cm which was similar to positive control. Tomato plants grown in R. solanacearum-inoculated soils and treated with methanol crude extracts from W. ugandensis stem bark produced a significantly higher average number of fruits, 22.00, compared to those treated with crude extracts from other solvents. The study proposed that W. ugandensis crude extract has the ability to be used as antibacterial biocontrol against R. solanacearum. Further research is important to determine the bioactive compounds against R. solanacearum. PubDate: 2024-06-10 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3324 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Delving into Chemical Control Options for Bacterial Canker (Clavibacter
michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in Tomatoes: An In-vitro Study Authors: Monteiro F. P., Valmorbida J., Mallmann G., Ogoshi C., Wamser A. F., Lins Jr J. C., Hahn L. Pages: 17 - 26 Abstract: The 2022/2023 tomato crop witnessed the emergence of Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis in a tomato field, leading to symptoms resembling bacterial canker. Identification of the suspected bacterium, C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, utilized specific primers (CMM5 and CMM6) for PCR reaction, resulting in a 614 bp fragment. Several fungicides and bactericides were tested for their ability to control bacterial growth in Petri dishes. Fungicides and bactericides that completely inhibit the bacterial growth in Petri dishes included benzalkonium chloride (250 mg a.i./L), copper oxychloride (1680 mg a.i./L with 1000 mg metallic copper/L), copper hydroxide (2764 mg a.i./L with 1800 mg metallic copper/L), fluazinam (500 µL a.i./L), difenoconazole + pidiflumetofen (200 + 120 µL a.i./L), cuprous oxide (1344 mg a.i./L with 1200 mg metallic copper /L), mancozeb + famoxadone (1000 + 100 mg a.i./L), mancozeb (4000 mg a.i./L) and metiram + pyraclostrobin (2200 + 200 mg a.i./L). The packaged dose of casugamycin (60 µL a.i./L) failed to completely inhibit C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis growth, necessitating doses exceeding 140 µL a.i./L for complete inhibition. Only at a dosage of 140 µL a.i./L was there no observable growth on the Petri dish containing YDC. Label doses of casugamycin did not prevent the growth of any bacteria, albeit partially controlling Clavibacter and Pectobacterium populations. At the dose of 140 µL a.i./L, the sole bacterium that proliferated was Xanthomonas hortorum pv. gardneri. The other bacteria were included in this study focusing on Clavibacter solely to understand the effect of certain products on other important bacteria in tomato cultivation. The active ingredients, difenoconazole + pidiflumetofen (200 + 120 µL/L active ingredient) and fluazinam (500 µL/L active ingredient) effectively suppressed C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis growth. The study indicates that various tested fungicides and bactericides were effective in curbing C. michiganensis subsp. michiganensis growth under laboratory conditions. Nonetheless, efficacy may fluctuate based on dose and specific product used. Further research, including field trials, is imperative to evaluate product efficacy under real-world conditions and devise comprehensive management strategies for tomato bacterial canker control. PubDate: 2024-06-11 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3325 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Assessment of Endogenous Soil Fertility to Update Fertilization of Maize
(Zea mays L) Crops in the Savannah Region of Togo Authors: Mouhamadou Lare, Jean Mianikpo Sogbedji Pages: 27 - 36 Abstract: The diagnosis of soil fertility is a prerequisite for the formulation of balanced and site-specific fertilizer recommendations. Macro elements (nitrogen – N, phosphorous – P and potassium – K) based nutrient omission trials were conducted in the districts of Oti, Tandjoare, Tone and Kpendjal of the Savannah region. The objective was to assess endogenous soil fertility under maize cropping to further develop updated site-specifique fertilization schemes for the crop. A total of twenty-five producers were selected in the region (eight in Tandjoare, seven in Tone, five in Oti and five in Kpendjal) for the study in a paticipatory approach. The approach was participatory in order to involve the end user in the exercise. A randomized complete block design was adopted with five fertilization treatments including N0P0K0 (T1), N0P60K70 (T2), N120P0K70 (T3), N120P60K0 (T4) and N120P60K70 (T5) kg ha-1 for the trial. The unit plot size was 100 m2 (10 m x10 m). Grain yield, yield response to nutrients and Agronomic Efficiency (AE) were determined. Genstat Edition 12th was used to discriminate means.The average yields were 0.56, 0.83, 3.18, 3.44 and 4.57 Mg ha-1 respectively for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 in Tandjoare, 0.32, 0.52, 1.06, 2.39 and 3.02 Mg ha-1 respectively for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 in Tône, 1.01, 1.35, 2.56, 3.16 and 4.39 Mg ha-1 respectively for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 in Oti and 0.39, 0.75, 1.54, 2.33 and 3.31 Mg ha-1 respectively for T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 in Kpendjal. The ranking of yield data by fertilizer treatment indicates that all three macronutrients (N, P and K) are required for maize production in the Savannah region, with a priority ranking of N>P>K. The results also showed that the best Agronomic Efficiency is obtained when all macronutrients are supplied in all four districts. The results of this diagnostic will be used as a basis for formulating balanced, site-specific fertilizer recommendations for intelligent, environmentally-friendly agriculture. PubDate: 2024-07-10 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3327 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Production of Biofuels from Agricultural Waste
Authors: Francis Mekunye, Peter Makinde Pages: 37 - 49 Abstract: Agricultural waste represents a largely untapped resource that could be utilized for the production of biofuels through various conversion pathways. As the global demand for renewable and sustainable energy grows, biofuels offer solutions to mitigate climate change impacts while improving waste management. This review analyzes using agricultural residues and by-products as feedstocks for biofuel production through biological, thermochemical and chemical conversion processes. The different types of lignocellulosic biomass available from agricultural activities are discussed, along with their compositions. While agricultural waste has advantages like wide availability and low cost, challenges relating to heterogeneous composition, pre-existing contamination and seasonal availability must be addressed. Fermentation, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis and gasification are examined as established routes for converting agricultural waste into liquid biofuels and biogas. Pretreatment methods, enzyme production pathways and synthesis of fuels like ethanol, butanol and diesel substitutes are outlined. Environmental benefits of biofuels from waste, including greenhouse gas mitigation and recycling of soil nutrients, are evaluated against fossil fuel alternatives. Case studies on operational plants and feasibility studies provide insights into technical and economic viability at scale. Challenges regarding feedstock logistics, conversion efficiency, commercial scale-up and sustainability assessment are identified for future research focus. In conclusion, the review finds that agricultural waste is a promising renewable resource for biofuel production when integrated with appropriate thermochemical, biochemical or anaerobic digestion technologies. While the field is advancing, further improvements in areas such as feedstock supply, pretreatment technologies, and demonstration of sustainability will be critical to realize the full potential of this emerging bioeconomy sector. The review recommends steps to accelerate commercialization and policy frameworks to incentivize waste-to-energy solutions. PubDate: 2024-07-15 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3328 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Optimizing Spacing and Nutrient Sources for Enhanced Yield and Quality of
Summer Onion (Allium cepa L.) Authors: Farjana Akther, Md. Nazrul Islam, Tahmina Mostarin, Md. Hassanur Rahman Pages: 50 - 57 Abstract: Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a crucial crop in Bangladesh, but current winter-only cultivation fails to meet national demand. This study aims to optimize summer onion production through proper plant spacing and nutrient management. The field experiment was conducted during the period from March to June 2016 in the Horticultural Farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka to find out the effect of spacing and nutrient sources on yield of summer onion. The experiment consisted of two factors: Factor A: Three levels of spacing. Viz., S1: 10 cm x 15 cm, S2: 15 cm x 15 cm, and S3: 20 cm x 15 cm. Factor B: Four levels of nutrient sources. viz., F0: (control); F1: Vermicompost (7 t/ha); F2: Mustard oil cake (6 t/ha) and F3: Inorganic fertilizer (N-110 + P-50 + K-125 Kg/ha). There were 12 treatment combinations. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Results indicated that 15x15 cm spacing significantly enhanced plant height, bulb diameter, and yield, achieving 22.03 t/ha. Vermicompost (7 t/ha) yielded the highest plant height, bulb size, and overall yield (20.61 t/ha). Combined treatment of 15x15 cm spacing with vermicompost resulted in the highest yield (24.06 t/ha). These findings suggest that optimized spacing and organic nutrient application can significantly improve summer onion production, potentially reducing dependency on imports and enhancing food security in Bangladesh. PubDate: 2024-07-27 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3329 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Agronomic Advances and Challenges of Chia Production in Kenya: A Review
Authors: Moses Njoka, Cynthia Mugo Mwenda, Peter Masinde, Richard Kirigiah, Victor Kemboi Pages: 58 - 74 Abstract: Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is an annual tropical plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family. In Kenya, Chia has gained significant attention in recent years due to its nutritional benefits and increasing demand in the local and global market. This review aims to explore the potential of chia production in Kenya as a source of income for farmers. The review highlights the agronomic requirements of chia, including soil, water, and climate conditions, as well as practices necessary for successful cultivation. Chia production is becoming a favorite enterprise for most farmers in Kenya due to its ease of management and short growth period. However, a seamless production has been encountered by several challenges, including scarce information regarding its agronomic management practices, poor yielding varieties, emerging pests and diseases, and poor harvesting and post-harvesting techniques. The growing demand for chia globally presents an opportunity for Kenyan farmers to tap into this market and generate income through export. Chia, has the potential to become a new golden crop for Kenyan farmers, contributing to food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. However, to realize this potential, there is a need for investment in research, extension services, and market linkages to support chia production, improve agronomic practices, and create a sustainable market for the crop. PubDate: 2024-07-31 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3330 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
- Turmeric Cultivation and Medicinal Benefits: Special Reference to
Kandhamal District of Odisha, India Authors: Harchand Tudu, Srikanta Pradhan, Tanushree Das, Bikram Keshari Das Pages: 75 - 90 Abstract: This study delves into the production methods and therapeutic properties of turmeric (Curcuma longa), a perennial herbaceous plant widely known for its culinary and medical uses. It covers various aspects including cultivation techniques, bioactive substances responsible for its healing properties and health benefits associated with its consumption. The cultivation section emphasizes optimal agro-climatic conditions, soil preparation, planting techniques, and post-harvest procedures essential for successful turmeric farming. The study also explores the medicinal properties of turmeric, focusing on bioactive compounds like curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Additionally, it highlights turmeric's potential in treating inflammatory diseases, cardiovascular illnesses, and neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The study also delves into organic and sustainable farming practices to address challenges faced by turmeric producers, emphasizing fair-trade practices and biodiversity preservation for long-term sustainability. PubDate: 2024-08-02 DOI: 10.9734/ajahr/2024/v11i3331 Issue No: Vol. 11, No. 3 (2024)
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