This study examined the effects of cultivar and rooting hormone concentration on growth of three basil varieties (Mrs. Burns Lemon, Red Rubin, and Aroma 2) propagated through cuttings. Aroma 2 had the greatest root mass but shortest height, while Mrs. Burns Lemon was tallest but had lower root mass than Aroma 2. Root mass was similar for plants treated with 0-0.3% indole-3-butyric acid rooting hormone. Aroma 2's greater root-to-shoot ratio suggests it may require less irrigation and be more drought tolerant. Results can aid development of sustainable basil production methods with reduced synthetic hormone and irrigation use.
Criteria for the Selection of Vegetable Growth-Promoting Bacteria to be appli...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
In order to define which are the most important criteria for the selection of plant Growth-Promoting bacterial strains of the Hibiscus sabdariffa L. crop (Roselle), bacterial strains isolated from the roots of Roselle plants of two varieties (Creole and Spider) were used, collected in the community of Río de los Peces, municipality of Candelaria Loxicha, Oaxaca and seeds of the same varieties. To characterize the varieties, the following were determined: total germination percentage (TGP), germination speed (GS), the root length(RL), the stem length (SL), the dry root biomass (DRB), the dry stem biomass (DSB) and the chlorophyll content (CC). Three types of LED lamps were used to illuminate the seedlings. The seeds inoculated with cells of six selected bacterial strains were grown in a greenhouse to determine: the stem length (SL) at 3, 45 and 65 days after sowing (das). The treatments were distributed under a completely random design and comparison of means (Tukey, p = 0.05). The TGP, DSB and DRB parameters were not useful in the selection process of the strains that promoted plant growth to a greater degree. The GS and SL to be considered safe criteria or not, what is important is the relationship of what happens at the time of germination and development of the seedlings in the laboratory and greenhouse. The SL of the plants in the greenhouse showed differences between strains, but not regarding the control and also only observed in the first days of development (3 das). The CC did not prove to be a good selection criterion either. The lamp composed of 15% white light, 27% blue light and 58% red light was the one that most promoted root growth.
Flowering, Yield and Fruit Quality of Balady Mango Seedling trees as influenc...AI Publications
The present study was conducted to investigate some flowering, yield and fruit quality (fruit physical and chemical properties) measurements of twelve years old Balady mango seedling trees grown in clay- loamy soil under surface irrigation system of private orchard located at Esna district, Luxor Governorate as affected by Parlatoria oleae infestation rate during two successive experimental seasons through duration from early September 2016 till mid August 2018 years. Data obtained during both (2016/2017) and (2017/2018) seasons revealed that dates of first, full bloom and harvesting took place earlier in the uninfested trees (control) as compared to the analogous measurements of either slightly or severely infested ones. Moreover, two yield parameters i.e., number and weight (kg.) of mature fruits harvested per each individual tree were obviously decreased by both P. oleae infestation rates as compared to those of the uninfested trees (control). As for the impact on both fruit physical and chemical characteristics, the uninfested trees exhibited an obvious improve in (average fruit dimensions, volume and weight) and (total soluble solids, total soluble solids / acidity ratio, total sugars, reducing sugars and sucrose contents) associated with lower total acidity %. On the other side, the heavily P. oleae infested trees showed significantly the highest reduction in all studied yield and fruit qualities measurements, except with total acidity %, whereas the trend took the other way around as compared to the free and slightly infested trees. Besides, P. oleae was more active through autumn months particularly during October and November of 1st and 2nd seasons, respectively. However, the reverse was true during winter months whereas the least values of P. oleae total population density were detected in both seasons, regardless of infestation rate. Concerning, the relationship between the differences in reduction % in a given desirable parameter from one hand and different infestation rate from the other estimated values of the simple correlation and regression coefficient pointed out the highly significant positive relationship between the increase of one insect per leaf and the increase in reduction of all tested yield and fruit qualitites measurements, except total acidity percentage.
Comparative Effect of Root Pruning and Pythium irregulare on Water Use Effici...Premier Publishers
A pot experiment was conducted in a glasshouse to compare the effects of root pruning and Pythium irregulare on water use efficiency (WUE) of wheat under drought conditions. The results showed that Pythium had no effect on transpiration (3.35 l) and grain yield (7.4 g) when compared with controls. The transpiration of root pruned plants was less than in controls between the time of root pruning and the start of the drought treatment. Root pruned plants had significantly higher transpiration than controls during the drought. Root pruning treatment significantly (P < 0.05) decreased total grain weight, grain number, WUE and harvest index. The extra water available in the root pruned pots at the end of experiment was not enough to bring the grain yield and WUE up to controls. Root pruning possibly did more than just restrict the ability to uptake all water. This experiment showed the importance of the stage at which root damage occurs and how it affects total WUE.
Dormancy breaking and the influence of gibberellic acid on the early growth o...Innspub Net
The purpose of this study was to determine the appropriate methods of breaking seed dormancy, level of water uptake, and the influence of gibberellic acid on the early growth of Tamarindus indica seedlings. The scarification methods used included: concentrated sulphuric acid (H2SO4), manual scarification, flaming, hot and cold water treatments. The experiments were conducted in the laboratory on Petri dishes and in potting media. GA3 was used to optimize the production of seedlings by spraying the solution on the foliage. The treatment for 10 minutes with Conc. H2SO4 gave the maximum germination percentage and water uptake (80.41%). GA3 enhances the growth of the seedlings by increasing the height, the number of leaves and stem girth at eight weeks after sowing. In conclusion, all the scarification treatments applied to the seeds of T. indica proved effective. The ten (10) minutes treatment with concentrated H2SO4 was the best treatment for breaking seed dormancy of T. indica. And gibberellic acid enhanced early and fast seedling growth as it increase height, number of leaves and stem girth of T. indica.
Criteria for the Selection of Vegetable Growth-Promoting Bacteria to be appli...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
In order to define which are the most important criteria for the selection of plant Growth-Promoting bacterial strains of the Hibiscus sabdariffa L. crop (Roselle), bacterial strains isolated from the roots of Roselle plants of two varieties (Creole and Spider) were used, collected in the community of Río de los Peces, municipality of Candelaria Loxicha, Oaxaca and seeds of the same varieties. To characterize the varieties, the following were determined: total germination percentage (TGP), germination speed (GS), the root length(RL), the stem length (SL), the dry root biomass (DRB), the dry stem biomass (DSB) and the chlorophyll content (CC). Three types of LED lamps were used to illuminate the seedlings. The seeds inoculated with cells of six selected bacterial strains were grown in a greenhouse to determine: the stem length (SL) at 3, 45 and 65 days after sowing (das). The treatments were distributed under a completely random design and comparison of means (Tukey, p = 0.05). The TGP, DSB and DRB parameters were not useful in the selection process of the strains that promoted plant growth to a greater degree. The GS and SL to be considered safe criteria or not, what is important is the relationship of what happens at the time of germination and development of the seedlings in the laboratory and greenhouse. The SL of the plants in the greenhouse showed differences between strains, but not regarding the control and also only observed in the first days of development (3 das). The CC did not prove to be a good selection criterion either. The lamp composed of 15% white light, 27% blue light and 58% red light was the one that most promoted root growth.
Flowering, Yield and Fruit Quality of Balady Mango Seedling trees as influenc...AI Publications
The present study was conducted to investigate some flowering, yield and fruit quality (fruit physical and chemical properties) measurements of twelve years old Balady mango seedling trees grown in clay- loamy soil under surface irrigation system of private orchard located at Esna district, Luxor Governorate as affected by Parlatoria oleae infestation rate during two successive experimental seasons through duration from early September 2016 till mid August 2018 years. Data obtained during both (2016/2017) and (2017/2018) seasons revealed that dates of first, full bloom and harvesting took place earlier in the uninfested trees (control) as compared to the analogous measurements of either slightly or severely infested ones. Moreover, two yield parameters i.e., number and weight (kg.) of mature fruits harvested per each individual tree were obviously decreased by both P. oleae infestation rates as compared to those of the uninfested trees (control). As for the impact on both fruit physical and chemical characteristics, the uninfested trees exhibited an obvious improve in (average fruit dimensions, volume and weight) and (total soluble solids, total soluble solids / acidity ratio, total sugars, reducing sugars and sucrose contents) associated with lower total acidity %. On the other side, the heavily P. oleae infested trees showed significantly the highest reduction in all studied yield and fruit qualities measurements, except with total acidity %, whereas the trend took the other way around as compared to the free and slightly infested trees. Besides, P. oleae was more active through autumn months particularly during October and November of 1st and 2nd seasons, respectively. However, the reverse was true during winter months whereas the least values of P. oleae total population density were detected in both seasons, regardless of infestation rate. Concerning, the relationship between the differences in reduction % in a given desirable parameter from one hand and different infestation rate from the other estimated values of the simple correlation and regression coefficient pointed out the highly significant positive relationship between the increase of one insect per leaf and the increase in reduction of all tested yield and fruit qualitites measurements, except total acidity percentage.
Comparative Effect of Root Pruning and Pythium irregulare on Water Use Effici...Premier Publishers
A pot experiment was conducted in a glasshouse to compare the effects of root pruning and Pythium irregulare on water use efficiency (WUE) of wheat under drought conditions. The results showed that Pythium had no effect on transpiration (3.35 l) and grain yield (7.4 g) when compared with controls. The transpiration of root pruned plants was less than in controls between the time of root pruning and the start of the drought treatment. Root pruned plants had significantly higher transpiration than controls during the drought. Root pruning treatment significantly (P < 0.05) decreased total grain weight, grain number, WUE and harvest index. The extra water available in the root pruned pots at the end of experiment was not enough to bring the grain yield and WUE up to controls. Root pruning possibly did more than just restrict the ability to uptake all water. This experiment showed the importance of the stage at which root damage occurs and how it affects total WUE.
Dormancy breaking and the influence of gibberellic acid on the early growth o...Innspub Net
The purpose of this study was to determine the appropriate methods of breaking seed dormancy, level of water uptake, and the influence of gibberellic acid on the early growth of Tamarindus indica seedlings. The scarification methods used included: concentrated sulphuric acid (H2SO4), manual scarification, flaming, hot and cold water treatments. The experiments were conducted in the laboratory on Petri dishes and in potting media. GA3 was used to optimize the production of seedlings by spraying the solution on the foliage. The treatment for 10 minutes with Conc. H2SO4 gave the maximum germination percentage and water uptake (80.41%). GA3 enhances the growth of the seedlings by increasing the height, the number of leaves and stem girth at eight weeks after sowing. In conclusion, all the scarification treatments applied to the seeds of T. indica proved effective. The ten (10) minutes treatment with concentrated H2SO4 was the best treatment for breaking seed dormancy of T. indica. And gibberellic acid enhanced early and fast seedling growth as it increase height, number of leaves and stem girth of T. indica.
Allelopathic effects of weeds extract on seed germination of Trachyspermum co...Innspub Net
Seed germination stage is one of the most basic growth stages in medicinal plants that may be adversely affected by the chemicals released from other plants in the soil environment. The present study was performed to investigate the allelopathic effects of weeds, including (Xanthium strumarium, Amaranthus retroflexus and Chenopodium album) as common weeds in medicinal plant's farms, on seed germination parameters, total dry weight and allometry coefficient of Trachyspermum copticum L., Foeniculum vulgare and Cuminum cyminum L. in laboratory conditions. Treatments included extracts of all organs of three weed species, applied on the seeds of the medicinal plants at three concentrations of zero (distilled water), 50 and 100% by volume. The results showed that the extracts of mentioned weed species had a significant inhibitory effect on germination characteristics of the studied medicinal plants. The greatest negative impact on seed germination was recorded for the extract of Amaranthus retroflexus, but Trachyspermum copticum L. showed a better resistance to the extract of Amaranthus retroflexus as compared to Foeniculum vulgare and Cuminum cyminum. Get the full articles at: http://bit.ly/1NaHI5u
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI)inventionjournals
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of computer science and electronics. IJESI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Engineering Science and Technology, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Scientists Urge Lawn Owners to Diversify Plant Species Used For LandscapingMabel_Berry
According to the National Science Foundation, America's lawns may be becoming "biological deserts." Homogenized lawn plants and the use of non-native plants species to populate residential and commercial greenscapes may have a detrimental effect on biodiversity.
Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) Cultivars throu...AI Publications
Two weeks old rooted cuttings of three commercial hybrid varieties; Triple plus, Temptation and Campairo were grown on cocopit substrate media with five replications on randomized complete block desigh (RCBD) in greenhouse condition at Mendel School Research Farm,Hwacheon. Transplanting was done on June 9, 2013 with spacing of 30 cm between plant and 45 cm between rows. Plants were trained as single stem and harvesting of the fruits were done upto 2.5 meter height. The major objective of this experiment was to evaluate their performance on stem cuttings. On the basis of overall characteristics, Triple plus showed superior performance; early flowering, higher plant uniformity, vigorous plant, higher leaf density, less powdery mildew infection, distinct stem pubescence, earlier fruit set, bigger size of fruits with thicker flesh, higher yield of fruits in tons per hectare and per plant, as compared to other cultivars has been selected and recommended for commercial cultivation through stem cuttings. It was followed by Temptation. Beside this, stem cuttings is an alternative planting materials in all the tested cultivars where apical branches during pruning could be used as alternative planting materials for tomato cultivation.
Using Ecological Utility to Define Native Plants NENHC 2017Richard Gardner
One of the least understood concepts in phytoecology is ecological utility in relationship to the definition of a native plant. Presently, native plants are domesticated, hybridized and otherwise altered without thought to the destruction this tampering does to ecological utility and hence ecosystems. By altering the chemical, physical and phenological properties of native plants, “scientists” intent on “saving”, “improving” or commercializing these plants are creating non-native plants which can drive dependent species to extinction. The resultant cascade through an ecosystem can be catastrophic
Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal status on some medicinal plants of Go...inventionjournals
Medicinal plants are important for our existence that supplies us many components for drug formulation. In nature the plant of particular kind invades with so many microorganisms. Among them one beneficial one is Va-mycorrhizal fungi. It helps in various ways to promote growth and yield of biomass better in natural habitats. So, to promote growth in garden or manmade environment application of VA-fungi as biofertilizer is beneficial. In this study 41 medicinal plants have been studied and application of VAM fungi inocula on Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. have been done. Monsoon showed highest colonization percentage followed by winter and summer where as spore density showed highest during winter followed by summer and monsoon.
Effect of Transplanting Age on the Growth and Yield of Green Pepper (Capsicum...BRNSS Publication Hub
A field experiment was conducted at the research farm of the Department of Crop Production and
Landscape Mangement of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ebonyi State University, Abakiliki, in Southeasthern
Agro-ecological zone of Nigeria for a period of 8 weeks to study the effect of transplanting age on
growth and yield of green pepper, laid out in a randomized complete block design in four replicates.
The agronomical characteristics that were measured were as follows: Plant height, number of leaves per
plants, days to 50% flowering, number of fruit per plot, and weight of fruit per plot (kg/plot). The result
of the field trial showed that transplanting age had a significant effect only on plant height at 8 weeks
of age of transplanting. The other vegetative parameters such as number of branches, number of leaves,
and 50% flowering and field component such as number and weight of fruits were not affected by the
transplanting age. Therefore, the best age to transplant green pepper is from 1 to 7 weeks, for optimum
performance.
Allelopathic effects of weeds extract on seed germination of Trachyspermum co...Innspub Net
Seed germination stage is one of the most basic growth stages in medicinal plants that may be adversely affected by the chemicals released from other plants in the soil environment. The present study was performed to investigate the allelopathic effects of weeds, including (Xanthium strumarium, Amaranthus retroflexus and Chenopodium album) as common weeds in medicinal plant's farms, on seed germination parameters, total dry weight and allometry coefficient of Trachyspermum copticum L., Foeniculum vulgare and Cuminum cyminum L. in laboratory conditions. Treatments included extracts of all organs of three weed species, applied on the seeds of the medicinal plants at three concentrations of zero (distilled water), 50 and 100% by volume. The results showed that the extracts of mentioned weed species had a significant inhibitory effect on germination characteristics of the studied medicinal plants. The greatest negative impact on seed germination was recorded for the extract of Amaranthus retroflexus, but Trachyspermum copticum L. showed a better resistance to the extract of Amaranthus retroflexus as compared to Foeniculum vulgare and Cuminum cyminum. Get the full articles at: http://bit.ly/1NaHI5u
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI)inventionjournals
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of computer science and electronics. IJESI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Engineering Science and Technology, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online.
Scientists Urge Lawn Owners to Diversify Plant Species Used For LandscapingMabel_Berry
According to the National Science Foundation, America's lawns may be becoming "biological deserts." Homogenized lawn plants and the use of non-native plants species to populate residential and commercial greenscapes may have a detrimental effect on biodiversity.
Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) Cultivars throu...AI Publications
Two weeks old rooted cuttings of three commercial hybrid varieties; Triple plus, Temptation and Campairo were grown on cocopit substrate media with five replications on randomized complete block desigh (RCBD) in greenhouse condition at Mendel School Research Farm,Hwacheon. Transplanting was done on June 9, 2013 with spacing of 30 cm between plant and 45 cm between rows. Plants were trained as single stem and harvesting of the fruits were done upto 2.5 meter height. The major objective of this experiment was to evaluate their performance on stem cuttings. On the basis of overall characteristics, Triple plus showed superior performance; early flowering, higher plant uniformity, vigorous plant, higher leaf density, less powdery mildew infection, distinct stem pubescence, earlier fruit set, bigger size of fruits with thicker flesh, higher yield of fruits in tons per hectare and per plant, as compared to other cultivars has been selected and recommended for commercial cultivation through stem cuttings. It was followed by Temptation. Beside this, stem cuttings is an alternative planting materials in all the tested cultivars where apical branches during pruning could be used as alternative planting materials for tomato cultivation.
Using Ecological Utility to Define Native Plants NENHC 2017Richard Gardner
One of the least understood concepts in phytoecology is ecological utility in relationship to the definition of a native plant. Presently, native plants are domesticated, hybridized and otherwise altered without thought to the destruction this tampering does to ecological utility and hence ecosystems. By altering the chemical, physical and phenological properties of native plants, “scientists” intent on “saving”, “improving” or commercializing these plants are creating non-native plants which can drive dependent species to extinction. The resultant cascade through an ecosystem can be catastrophic
Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal status on some medicinal plants of Go...inventionjournals
Medicinal plants are important for our existence that supplies us many components for drug formulation. In nature the plant of particular kind invades with so many microorganisms. Among them one beneficial one is Va-mycorrhizal fungi. It helps in various ways to promote growth and yield of biomass better in natural habitats. So, to promote growth in garden or manmade environment application of VA-fungi as biofertilizer is beneficial. In this study 41 medicinal plants have been studied and application of VAM fungi inocula on Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don. have been done. Monsoon showed highest colonization percentage followed by winter and summer where as spore density showed highest during winter followed by summer and monsoon.
Effect of Transplanting Age on the Growth and Yield of Green Pepper (Capsicum...BRNSS Publication Hub
A field experiment was conducted at the research farm of the Department of Crop Production and
Landscape Mangement of the Faculty of Agriculture, Ebonyi State University, Abakiliki, in Southeasthern
Agro-ecological zone of Nigeria for a period of 8 weeks to study the effect of transplanting age on
growth and yield of green pepper, laid out in a randomized complete block design in four replicates.
The agronomical characteristics that were measured were as follows: Plant height, number of leaves per
plants, days to 50% flowering, number of fruit per plot, and weight of fruit per plot (kg/plot). The result
of the field trial showed that transplanting age had a significant effect only on plant height at 8 weeks
of age of transplanting. The other vegetative parameters such as number of branches, number of leaves,
and 50% flowering and field component such as number and weight of fruits were not affected by the
transplanting age. Therefore, the best age to transplant green pepper is from 1 to 7 weeks, for optimum
performance.
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Effect of different amino acids on the morphology and bio-chemical attributes...Innspub Net
Amino acids have become a crucial part of feed for better growth and yield of Solanaceous vegetables. Economically accessible Amino acid stimulants can enhance the fertilizer absorption and maximize the uptake of water and nutrients. The experimental trial was carried out to find the impact of foliar feeding of Ezabian and Imino-x on flourishment and production of green chilli (Capsicum frutescens L.). Experiment was designed according to Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Moreover, seven treatments and four replications will be considered. Each treatment will contain ten plants. Vegetative, reproductive and biochemical parameters of chilli Wonder Hot, variety will be observed for data collection. Results revealed that Maximum plant height (63.5cm), highest fruit weight (5.39g), highest TSS value (11.51 Brix°) and highest pH value (5.68) was observed in T6 while T6 had maximum number of branches (28), highest value of fruit length (12.49cm), maximum fruit yield/plant (1113g), maximum fruit yield/ hectare (51.15tons), highest fresh root weight is 8.18, highest dry root weight 5.88, highest fresh shoot weight 77.7, highest dry shoot weight 33.57, highest value of 100 seeds weight (0.325g), and maximum chlorophyll concentration (75.68). However, highest concentration of Titratable acidity (0.3593g/L), maximum value of electrical conductivity (3.98S/m) highest value of fruit firmness (7.1 lb) as compared to other treatments Hence, it was concluded that foliar application of Ezabian and Imino-x @ Ezabian20mL+Imino-x20mL per liter of water increased yield characters up to maximum and this dose can be recommended to farmers to get more yield and profit.
The experiment was conducted at the experimental farm and laboratory of Institute of
Sustainable Agrotechnology, University Malaysia Perlis, Padang Besar, Perlis, Malaysia, with the objective
toinvestigate the inhibitory and stimulatory effects of aqueous extract of mungbean on seed germination and
seedling growth of three crop species, mungbean, sweet corn and okra. Different treatments of mungbean
aqueousextracts (vegetative fresh, vegetative after 2 weeks drying, vegetative after 4 weeks drying, flowering
fresh, flowering after 2 weeks drying, flowering after 4 weeks drying, flowering fresh, flowering after 2 weeks
drying, flowering after 4 weeks drying, maturity fresh, maturity after 2 weeks drying, maturity after 4 weeks
drying and water as control) were used to test their effect on the test species. The experiment was randomly
distributed and according to Completely Randomized Design(CRD) with five replicates. The results showed the
fresh vegetative aqueous extract of mungbean had a significant effect (stimulatory) on germination percent and
growth parameters such as number of root, root length and shoot height, of the three crop species. The study
revealed that the aqueous extract of mungbean have different effects (inhibitory and stimulatory) on the
seedlings and the mode of action depends on the associated plant species.Our results suggest that the aqueous
extract of mungbean from the different growth stages and drying periods have an allelopathic effect.
Use of Cover Crops in Organic Sweetpotato Production to Improve Yield: A Case...CrimsonpublishersMCDA
Organic Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) production in the United States has become more popular due to consumers’ concern regarding food safety. Growers, however, are challenged by many issues in organic production, including weed control that was often cited as the number one factor contributing to yield reduction. This report described a case study conducted on an organic farm in central Missouri, USA where cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) or rapeseed (Brassica napus I.) were planted as cover crops. The two crops were terminated by either tilling a couple of times or mowing followed by crimping prior to Sweetpotato transplanting. This case study demonstrated that tilling the cover crops rather than mowing and crimping resulted in significant weed control especially in the early part of the growing season. This suppression also resulted in up to three times the root tuber production, compared to the untreated control where no cover crops were planted. Between the two crops, cereal rye appeared to produce a higher yield in terms of tuber counts. This case report suggests that tilling cover crops prior to Sweetpotato transplanting can benefit organic Sweetpotato production.
Growth and yield adaptability of selected varieties of strawberry (Fragaria x...Innspub Net
This study aims to evaluate the growth adaptability, yield performance and Pest infestation on three introduced strawberry varieties at Bataan namely; Sweet Charlie, Festival and Summer Princess. Evaluation test was based on the Plant height, Number of Runners, Days to flower, Number of fruit bears, Weight of fruit per pot, Computed Yield and Pest degree infestation. This was conducted at the Greenhouse Nursery of BPSU, Abucay Campus. In terms of growth adaptability, Sweet Charlie obtained the most prominent character followed by Festival variety and Summer Princess. On the yield performance, all varietal tested are comparable to each other, However, Summer princess revealed as least in growth adaptability, study shows that, summer princess yielded better than the two remaining varieties tested under greenhouse condition. Thus, summer princess variety is a more noticeable and promising variety that can tribe in Bataan condition. On Insect and Disease assessment, most prevalent insects found are Cutworm and Aphids while on diseases, Anthracnose fruit rot and Angular leaf spot were observed these are caused by fungi. Further studies may focus on the cultural management practices, field test to find out more promising cultivars that will thrive best to Bataan, Sensory evaluation is also recommended.
Phytochemical Screening and Antimicrobial Effects of Leaf and Root Extracts o...inventionjournals
Crotalaria brevidens (slenderleaf) leaves and shoots are used as food and have medicinal properties when consumed by human beings. It also acts as an agent in promotion of suicidal germination of striga, a parasitic plant that is a major problem weed for maize and millet growers. In view of its medicinal importance, and there being increased tolerance of many microorganisms towards known antibiotics, there is a need to establish the anti microbial properties of extracts obtained from its roots, stem, leaf and other body parts against pathogenic microorganism. Even though this plant is reported to have immense medicinal value in treating stomach related ailments, malaria and many other tropical diseases, before this study little was known about the antimicrobial potentials of its roots, stem and leaves against three candidate microorganisms namely; Candida albicans, staphylococcus aureus and E. coli. This study was thus initiated to investigate (1) the antimicrobial effects of slenderleaf on Candida albicans, staphylococcus aureus and E. coli, and (2) establish the presence of phenols, steroids, glycosides, saponins, quinones, tannins, terpenoids and flavonoids in its crude leaf and root extracts. The plant roots and leaves used during these studies were collected, shade dried and blended to obtain a fine powder. Ethanol was used as the solvent to extract the pure components by dissolving 25g of leaves and 6g of roots separately in 150ml of ethanol in each case. After seven days, the extract was filtered and the filtrate put in a rotary evaporator to obtain a pure solid sample of the extract. A stock solution was made with 3g of the leaf extract that resulted by dissolving in 40ml distilled water making a concentration of 75mg/ml. the stock was diluted to 3.75mg/ml, 11.25mg/ml, 18.75mg/ml and 37.5mg/ml as 5%, 15%, 25% and 50% respectively. A control with distilled water (0%) was used. This was then replicated thrice to minimize variability and arranged in a completely randomized design. The screening of antimicrobial activity of crude extracts was done by measuring the zone of inhibition using agar diffusion method. Data obtained were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means separated and compared using least significance difference (LSD) at (p<0.05). There was a clear zone observed around the discs impregnated in the extract and transferred to the inoculated petri dishes. High inhibition was observed on Escherichia coli at a concentration of 37.5mg/ml. phytochemical screening showed presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, anthraquinones, phenols, terpenoids and cardiac glycosides as secondary metabolites. The crude extracts obtained in these studies clearly indicated antimicrobial properties against the three tested microorganisms, and therefore there is need to determine the main active components for studies that may lead to the discovery of new natural drugs.
Effectiveness of organic substances in the control of powdery mildew (Sphaero...Innspub Net
Powdery mildew (Sphaerotheca fuligenia) is an economically important disease of cucurbits requiring sustainable means of management. A field experiment was set up to evaluate the effectiveness of cattle milk, sodium bicarbonate, dilute acetic acid and garlic in controlling powdery mildew in butternut (Cucurbita moschata pepo). The trial was laid out as a randomized complete block design with 3 replicates and 6 treatments. The treatments were applied at the following concentrations; 1. Cattle milk at 100ml/liter of water, 2. Dilute acetic acid at 6ml/litre of water, 3. Bicarbonate of soda at 10g/litre of water, 4. Garlic at 20g/litre of water, 5. Tubuconazole in the form of folicur at 0.5ml per liter of water and 6. Control which was not sprayed. A significant difference (P<0.01) was recorded at 60days after planting with respect to disease incidence and milk had the lowest incidence of 12.9% and the highest incidence of 37.3% was recorded in the control treatment. Milk and sodium bicarbonate managed to suppress both disease incidence and severity. This study confirms the fungicidal properties of milk and sodium bicarbonate, garlic, and dilute acetic, suggesting their use as fungicides for disease control for sustainable powdery mildew management. Get the full articles at: https://goo.gl/A2g1tv
Effect of time and proportion of leaf harvest on pest, forage and root yields...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Dearth of knowledge exists regarding the leaf harvest intensity and frequency thresholds that support optimum forage and fresh storage root yields in Sierra Leone. A study was carried out to assess the effects of leaf harvesting time and proportion on Cylas puncticollis infestation, growth and yield of sweet potato in the inland valley swamp and upland ecologies of Njala. Treatment combinations comprised of two varieties ("Kabia" and "Gbanie"), four leaf harvest regimes: 0, 30 60 and 90 days after planting (DAP); and four-leaf harvest intensities (0, 25, 50 and 100%). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Data collected included Cylas puncticollis severity on vines and storage roots, root dimensions and numbers, fresh foliage and storage root yields. The results revealed that leaf harvesting twice at 25 and 50% contributed more to optimum forage and storage root yields and related attributes of sweet potatoes compared to other treatments. The present study suggests that good agronomic management of sweet potato that supports optimum forage and storage root yields should be selected to meet the dual purpose for which it is grown. These findings serve as good guide for incorporation of leaf harvesting time, proportion of leaf harvest in germplasm assessment and new population development objectives.
Pesticidal efficacy of crude aqueous extracts of Tephrosia vogelii L., Allium...researchagriculture
Cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae L.) is one of the most problematic pests in smallholder vegetable production, causing significant yield losses in heavy infestations. Current control strategy focuses on use of synthetic pesticides that consequently lead to decimation of natural enemies, development of insect resistance and resurgence and upset biodiversity. Botanical pesticides have been used widely in smallholder farmers but not much documented literature exists on efficacy of these products. A field trial was done to assess the efficacy of crude aqueous extracts of Tephrosia vogelii, Allium sativum and Solanum incanum in controlling Brevicoryne brassicae in Brassica napus production. The trial was laid in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with five treatments replicated four times. The five treatments used in the experiment were T. vogelii, A. sativum, S. incanum, dimethoate and control. Wingless adult female aphids were inoculated three weeks after transplanting of seedlings. Spraying and data collection were done weekly for four weeks. Data was collected on aphid nymph and adult counts on the third leaf from the aerial plant part of randomly selected plants from each treatment for 24 hours after the application of treatments and total plant fresh weight per each treatment. There were significant differences (p<0.05)><0.05) on the yield of rape. It was concluded that T. vogelii, S. incanum and A. sativum aqueous crude extracts have some pesticidal effects on aphid in rape production.
Article Citation:
Shepherd Mudzingwa, Simbarashe Muzemu and James Chitamba.
Pesticidal efficacy of crude aqueous extracts of Tephrosia vogelii L., Allium sativum L. and Solanum incanum L. in controlling aphids (Brevicoryne brassicae L.) in rape (Brassica napus L.)
Journal of Research in Agriculture (2013) 2(1): 157-163.
Full Text:
http://www.jagri.info/documents/AG0040.pdf
Pesticidal efficacy of crude aqueous extracts of Tephrosia vogelii L., Alli...researchagriculture
Cabbage aphid (
Brevicoryne brassicae
L.) is one of the most problematic
pests in smallholder vegetable production, causing significant yield losses in heavy
infestations. Current control strategy focuses on use of synthetic pesticides that
consequently lead to decimation of natural enemies, development of insect
resistance and resurgence and upset biodiversity. Botanical pesticides have been used
widely in smallholder farmers but not much documented literature exists on efficacy
of these products. A field trial was done to assess the efficacy of crude aqueous
extracts of
Tephrosia vogelii
,
Allium sativum
and
Solanum incanum
in controlling
Brevicoryne brassicae
in
Brassica napus
production. The trial was laid in a randomized
complete block design (RCBD) with five treatments replicated four times. The five
treatments used in the experiment were
T
.
vogelii
,
A
.
sativum
,
S
.
incanum
,
dimethoate and control. Wingless adult female aphids were inoculated three weeks
after transplanting of seedlings. Spraying and data collection were done weekly for
four weeks. Data was collected on aphid nymph and adult counts on the third leaf
from the aerial plant part of randomly selected plants from each treatment for
24 hours after the application of treatments and total plant fresh weight per each
treatment. There were significant differences (p<0.05)><0.05) on the yield of rape. It was concluded that
T. vogelii
,
S
.
incanum
and
A
.
sativum
aqueous crude extracts have some pesticidal
effects on aphid in rape
production.
The Studies of Effect of Bio Fertilizers Rhizobium, Phosphobacteria, and Root...IIJSRJournal
A pot culture experiment was carried out and to the find out the effect of Rhizobium, Phosphobacteria and Root Nodule extract on the vegetative growth and biochemical changes in Black gram and Maize. The Black gram and Maize is vegetative parameters such as seed germination, shoot and root length, leaf fresh weight, leafs dry weight, shoot and root dry weight had analyzed and biochemical studies of both Black gram and Maize was carried such as total chlorophyll content, leave soluble protein and in vivo nitrate reductase activity. Among microbial inoculants, the Rhizobium + PB mixer was found most effective in terms of seed germination, shoot and root length, leaf fresh weight, leafs dry weight, shoot and root dry weight and also showed increase total chlorophyll content, soluble protein and nitrate activities in both Black gram and Maize.
Genetic characterization of morphological and yield traits in ten genotypes of Celosia argentea L. was evaluated
at the Research Farm of the Department of Botany, University of Ibadan, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out
in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The results of analysis of variance carried out on
early morphological characters of C. argentea L. at 3, 4, and 5weeks after sowing showed significant
(p<0.05 /><0.01) effects except for number of leaves per plant and leaf width at 3 and 5 weeks after sowing,
respectively. The replicates in blocks produced varying observable effects on the genotypes while genotype x
replicate showed significant variation on morpho-agronomic and yield traits except number of days to flowering
at 50 days and fruit length at maturity. Also, from the result of the mean separation, it is shown that
NG/MAY/09/015 performed the best for plant height at flowering, leaf length at flowering, leaf width at
flowering, and root biomass. NG/SA/07/213 produced the highest mean values of number of flowers per plant,
leaf biomass and pod weight at maturity. The highest values of number of primary branches and fruit length at
maturity (FLM) were observed for NG/TO/MAY/09/015, while NG/AO/MAY/09/015 had the highest for pod
weight at maturity. The result of principal component axis also showed that Prin 1 accounted for highest Eigen
Vector of 38.62% from the total variation. NG/MAY/09/015 (R2) genotype produced the highest Eigen Vector
of 6.705 from Prin 1. The correlation result showed that plant height had a significant positive association with
seed weight at maturity, pod weight at maturity, number of primary branches and fruit length at maturity, while
similar association existed between leaf biomass, number of primary branches and pod weight at maturity, as
well as between plant height at flowering and pod weight at maturity. Again, the number of primary branches is
also positive and significantly correlated with plant height, root biomass and leaf length. Furthermore, the
results of dendrogram and minimum spanning tree revealed variations in genetic relatedness and distance,
respectively, which exist among the population of the C. argentea L.
ABSTRACT- In the present study, sandwich method was used to study the allelopathic interactions of Ipomoea carnea
on two test weed seeds i.e. Amaranthus spinosus and Cassia fistula. Pot experiments were also conducted where
Ipomoea extracts were applied on germinated seedlings in bags and the effect was observed after regular application of
Ipomoea extract as a weedicide. Both methods showed inhibition of the weeds with respect to growth of seedlings.
However, the results were more significant in Sandwich method as compared to Spray Bioassay, indicating the
allelopathic properties of Ipomoea carnea are more significant on un-germinated seeds compared to grown plantlets.
HPTLC analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenols, tannins and terpenoids in Ipomoea carnea. Since all the
four phytochemicals were present in Ipomoea carnea, these could be responsible for allelopathic properties of Ipomoea
carnea on Amaranthus spinosus and Cassia fistula.
Key-words- Ipomoea carnea, Allelopathy, Weedicide, HPTLC
Selection of Drought Tolerant Mutant of Amaranthus Cruentus L. in Green HousePremier Publishers
Water deficit is one of the significant environmental factors limiting plant production. This stress occurs during drought period. The aim of this study was to select gamma irradiation-induced drought tolerant mutant drought lines during vegetative stage. Seeds of the reference cultivar were gamma irradiated using the gamma irradiated facility at the IAEA to induce genetic variation. Four selected lines based on their high biomass (L2, L17, L18 and L23) and the reference cultivar (L0) were grown under four irrigation frequencies: 2, 4, 8 and 12 days with 200 ml as standard water regime for 24 days after transplanting. Completely randomized block design with 3 repetitions was applied. Data related to Relative Plant Height Growth, Relative Leaf Number Growth, Relative Shoot Fresh Mass Growth and Relative Root Length Growth were determined. The results indicated a significant effect of water deficit on all considered parameters by limiting the growth. Reduction observed were less accentuated in lines L2. Line L2 showed a significant difference for root growth indicating the adaptability of drought. Based on drought tolerant index, L2 was the most tolerant. At this stage, lines L2 appeared to be the most promising for the creation of new drought-tolerant amaranth varieties.
Selection of Drought Tolerant Mutant of Amaranthus Cruentus L. in Green HousePremier Publishers
Water deficit is one of the significant environmental factors limiting plant production. This stress occurs during drought period. The aim of this study was to select gamma irradiation-induced drought tolerant mutant drought lines during vegetative stage. Seeds of the reference cultivar were gamma irradiated using the gamma irradiated facility at the IAEA to induce genetic variation. Four selected lines based on their high biomass (L2, L17, L18 and L23) and the reference cultivar (L0) were grown under four irrigation frequencies: 2, 4, 8 and 12 days with 200 ml as standard water regime for 24 days after transplanting. Completely randomized block design with 3 repetitions was applied. Data related to Relative Plant Height Growth, Relative Leaf Number Growth, Relative Shoot Fresh Mass Growth and Relative Root Length Growth were determined. The results indicated a significant effect of water deficit on all considered parameters by limiting the growth. Reduction observed were less accentuated in lines L2. Line L2 showed a significant difference for root growth indicating the adaptability of drought. Based on drought tolerant index, L2 was the most tolerant. At this stage, lines L2 appeared to be the most promising for the creation of new drought-tolerant amaranth varieties.
Similar to Root Hormone Concentration influence on Ociumum basilicum Cultivars Thesis- Stephanie Petrakos 3-30-16-signed (20)
Selection of Drought Tolerant Mutant of Amaranthus Cruentus L. in Green House
Root Hormone Concentration influence on Ociumum basilicum Cultivars Thesis- Stephanie Petrakos 3-30-16-signed
1. INFLUENCE OF CULTIVAR AND ROOTING HORMONE CONCENTRAION ON
SHOOT GROWTH AND ROOT MASS OF BASIL (OSIMUM BASILICUM)
BY
STEPHANIE PETRAKOS
Submitted to the Honors Program for the graduation requirement of
SUMMA CUM LAUDE HONORS
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA
College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
MAY 2016
________________________________
Student Signature: Stephanie Petrakos
Contact: spetrakos@ufl.edu
________________________________
Thesis Advisor Signature: Dr. Brian J. Pearson
Contact: bpearson@ufl.edu
________________________________
Co-Thesis Advisor Signature: Dr. Jeremy Lichstein
Contact: jlichstein@ufl.edu
________________________________
Departmental Honors Coordinator Signature: Dr. Leslie Paul Thiele
Contact: thiele@ufl.edu
Stephanie Petrakos
2. 2
Abstract
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a popular aromatic herb cultivated primarily for its culinary
attributes. Recent increased demand for this crop has prompted a need for an improvement in
production technique aimed at enhancing yield and improving production efficiency. The aim of
this study is to measure and record growth of three popular basil cultivars during propagation
and identify optimal root hormone concentration for these cultivars. A secondary objective of
this work is to identify cultivars with enhanced root:shoot ratios that may be produced under
reduced irrigation regimes and possess enhanced drought tolerance. Three basil cultivars (Mrs.
Burns Lemon, Red Rubin, and Aroma 2) were chosen for the study and seventy-two cuttings
from each cultivar were taken and treated with 0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.8% indole-3-butyric acid
rooting hormone. Two weeks after vegetative clones were propagated, plant height was recorded
and root mass was measured. Mrs. Burns Lemon was significantly taller than Aroma 2 cultivars.
However, the root mass of Aroma 2 was greater than Mrs. Burns Lemon and Red Rubin. Greater
root:shoot ratios associated with Aroma 2 suggests lower irrigation needs during production and
enhanced drought tolerance for this cultivar. Root mass was similar amongst plants treated with
0%, 0.1%, and 0.3% indole-3-butyric acid. Results from this work aid in the development of
sustainable or reduced-input production strategies with specific aim at reductions in reliance on
synthetic plant hormone and irrigation use.
3. 3
Introduction
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a popular, aromatic herb prized for its superior flavors and
aromas. Essential oils extracted from its fresh leaves and flowers are used as additives in
pharmaceutical, household, cosmetic, and culinary products (Loughrin and Kasperbauer, 2003).
In addition to these uses, basil is also cultivated for its neutraceutical properties. Basil can be
used as a stomachic, antihelminthic, antipyretic, diaphoretic, expectorant, carminative, stimulant,
and pectoral (Sahoo et. al, 1997). Despite the diverse applications of basil and its essential oils,
basil is an important culinary herb, marketed fresh, frozen, or dried. (Jayasinghe et. al, 2003).
Basil is often dried post-harvest rather than sold fresh (wet) to aid in storage and transport
(Bekhradi et al., 2014). However, recent interest in fresh, localized food products, has increased
demand for wet, recently harvested basil. In order to satisfy increased demand for fresh basil,
production methods which maximize production need to be established.
Although traditional basil production practices are well established, producers have
recently investigated new methods to reduce plant production time and meet consumptive
demands (Purcino et al., 2012). Despite traditional soil-based cultivation from seed, soilless basil
production utilizing clonal propagules within protected greenhouse environments has grown in
popularity. Advantages of greenhouse production include precise control of environmental
conditions, nutrient availability, and irrigation. However, high precision production requires
proper selection of cultivar and propagation technique to maximize production and efficiency.
Research focusing on the development of appropriate and efficient production practices are
needed to establish effective and sustainable production of this crop (Bekhradi et al., 2014).
Sustainable utilization of water is critical to commercial plant production and long term
protection of natural resources. In 2010, mean total water usage in the United States was 355
4. 4
billion gallons per day. Of that volume, total irrigation withdrawals were 115,000 million gallons
per day, or 61% of total freshwater withdrawals (Maupin, et al., 2014). Besides thermoelectric
power, irrigation remained the largest single use of freshwater resources (Maupin, et al., 2014).
Research examining plant water use and drought tolerance is necessary to assist in the selection
of plant species which would help allow for reduction in consumption of freshwater for irrigation
purposes. Further, related research has observed reduced irrigation can result in higher quality
basil crop. Water stress has been shown to increase the content of phenolic acids and antioxidant
properties in green and purple varieties of sweet basil (Luna, et al., 2015). Thus, reduced
irrigation may improve plant quality while simultaneously reducing reliance on natural
resources.
Disease management is an important component in plant production. Downy mildew, a
relatively new and destructive disease in basil, was first discovered in Florida in the fall of 2007
(Wyenandt, et al., 2010). The disease is believed to have originated from Uganda (McGrath,
2015) and since its introduction into the US has been reported in commercial basil production
facilities in California and the Midwest. The first symptoms of downy mildew are yellowing in
the leaves, at first making downy mildew overlooked as a nutrient deficiency. As the disease
develops, dark, gray-purple sporangia forms on the abaxial surface of the leaves, eventually
making its way to the adaxial side of the leaves (Wyenandt, et al., 2010). This sporangia prevents
photosynthesis in the leaves, stunts plant growth, and destroys the essential oils that the basil
leaves produce, making the basil plant unviable. There is no specific treatment or cure for downy
mildew, but preventing wet, moist environments for the mildew to grow and selecting a cultivar
less susceptible to downy mildew is crucial to maximizing the prevention of the disease. Ocimum
basilicum is more susceptible to the disease than basil varieties of a different species such as
5. 5
Ocimum citriodorum and Ocimum americanum (McGrath, 2015). However, purple or red
varieties of Ocimum basilicum such as Red Rubin and lemon varieties of Ocimum basilicum such
as Mrs. Burns Lemon are less susceptible to downy mildew. The Aroma 2 variety of basil, most
similar in aroma and taste to the popular Genovese basil, has also shown a resistance to downy
mildew that is nearly equal to that of Mrs. Burns Lemon and Red Rubin (Wyenandt, et al., 2010).
Due to their high disease resistance, these three cultivars of basil were chosen for this study.
Materials and Methods
Seed propagation. Seeds of three basil cultivars (Mrs. Burns Lemon, Red Rubin, and Aroma 2)
were purchased (Johnny’s Selected Seeds in Winslow, MA) and propagated from seed on June
17, 2014. Seeds of each cultivar were germinated in a 72 cell pack tray (n=216) containing
Fafard Growing Mix 2 (SunGro, Agawam, MA) soilless substrate in a greenhouse located in
Apopka, FL. The experiment was conducted over a duration of eight weeks starting on June 17,
2014, and concluding on August 8, 2014. Data was recorded over a six week period, starting on
June 17, 2014. Each tray received irrigated mist every 5 minutes for a duration of 15 seconds. On
June 24, one week after the seeds were planted, plant height was recorded for Mrs. Burns Lemon
and Aroma 2 varieties. Slow germination rate for Red Rubin precluded measurement of plant
height until three weeks after transplant (WAT) on June 2, 2014. Trays were irrigated for a
duration of 4 weeks with the mist irrigation system prior to container production. Fertilizer (50
ppm N) was applied through capillary tray absorption 3 weeks after transplant. After reaching a
height of 30 cm, 8 basil plugs were removed from their trays and transplanted into 7.5 L
containers (8 basil plugs per container). Each container was irrigated twice daily utilizing a low-
volume drip emitter. Plant height measurements were collected weekly beginning post-transplant
6. 6
and terminated 6 WAT. Throughout this production period, electrical conductivity was collected
(data not shown) to ensure adequate substrate nutrient availability.
Vegetative clonal propagation. On July 27, 2016, 6 WAT, seventy-two cuttings from the three
basil cultivars were taken and treated with 0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.8% indole-3-butyric acid
(IBA) (Hormodin, OHP, Inc., Mainland, PA) rooting hormone. After application of the rooting
hormone, cuttings were transplanted into a 72 cell pack tray containing Fafard Growing Mix 2
(SunGro, Agawam, MA) soilless substrate. Cuttings were placed within the greenhouse and
irrigated every 5 minutes for a duration of 15 seconds using a mist irrigation system. Plant height
measurements were collected weekly for a duration of 2 weeks at which time the clonal
propagules were ready for transplant. Plants were destructively harvested and dried in an oven at
65 °C until a constant dry weight was obtained to quantify root mass and shoot mass.
Statistical analysis. Plants cultivated for this experiment were arranged utilizing a completely
randomized design. Plant height, root, and shoot mass data were analyzed using the PROC GLM
procedure in SAS with mean separation by Duncan’s multiple range test. Statistical tests were
considered to be significant if P<0.05.
Results and Discussion
Seed propagation. Beginning 2 WAT, mean height of Mrs. Burns Lemon and Aroma 2 were
approximately 2.14 and 1.07 cm, respectively (Figure 1). Three WAT Red Rubin varieties were
large enough to measure and had a mean height of 1.27 cm. Beginning 3 WAT, rapid growth was
observed. High growth rates between 3 and 6 WAT are likely a result of nutrient application.
Beginning 4 WAT, Mrs. Burns Lemon had greater plant height than either Aroma 2 or Red
Rubin (Figure 1). Beginning 5 WAT, Aroma 2 and Red Rubin displayed rapid growth. Aroma 2
had an average height of 9.2 cm with the largest Aroma 2 plant being 17.5 cm tall. Red Rubin
7. 7
had an average height of 4.75 cm with the largest Red Rubin plant being 13.8 cm tall. Mrs. Burns
Lemon had an average height of 24.38 cm with the tallest being 32.7 cm (Figure 1). Rubin
remained the most compact cultivar with mean height of 9.5 cm at termination of the experiment
(6 WAT).
At termination of the experiment (6 WAT), downy mildew was present on all three
cultivars, making them unviable and ineffective for further experimentation. However, the
quantity of downy mildew and severity of the outbreak varied dependent upon cultivar. Downy
mildew was most virulent on Aroma 2 cultivars where it infected approximately 60% of plant
leaves. Disease incidence was less severe for Red Rubin and Mrs. Burns Lemon with leaf
infection of approximately 25% and 40%, respectively. These observations imply that significant
variability of disease resistance exists amongst basil cultivars. Further research is warranted to
identify and potentially breed resistance amongst popular, susceptible varieties.
Amongst the cultivars tested, greatest plant growth was observed for Mrs. Burns Lemon.
As expected, Mrs. Burns Lemon possessed the highest mean leaf count with 8 leaves on each
stem and an average height of 8 cm (Table 1). Aroma 2 had an average of at least 6 leaves on
each stem and an average height of 4 cm whereas Red Rubin had an average of at least 6 leaves
on stem and an average height of 4 cm. Greater leaf count in Mrs. Burns Lemon may be
significant to the culinary market given its application in food preparation and production.
Vegetative clonal propagation. Plant height was not influenced by hormone application.
Over the duration of the experiment, the height of Mrs. Burns Lemon was approximately 2-fold
greater and significantly different than Aroma 2 despite higher mean variability. Red Rubin had
similar plant height to both Mrs. Burns Lemon and Aroma 2 in the three weeks prior to the
8. 8
application of fertilizer in week four. Although plant height of Mrs. Burns Lemon was greatest, it
had similar root mass to Red Rubin and significantly less root mass than Aroma 2 (Figure 2).
This suggests Aroma 2 may possess greater root:shoot ratios and greater drought tolerance when
compared to Mrs. Burns Lemon and Red Rubin cultivars. This may be beneficial when
considering selection of cultivar for transplant and establishment in the landscape. Dry root mass
amongst all three cultivars was highest when propagated using 0.3% IBA, but similar to those
treated with 0% and 0.1% (Figure 3). Root mass was lowest when treated with 0.8% IBA and
was approximately 2-fold less than propagates treated with 0.3% IBA (Figure 3). Increased root
mass as a result of IBA application was similar to findings reported by Sahoo et al. (1997). In
contrast to Sahoo et al., (1997); however, we observed deleterious effects when IBA
concentrations exceeded 0.3% (Figure 3).
Conclusion
Plant growth utilizing conventional seed germination techniques was acceptable and
similar to expectations for related ornamental and edible crops produced under a protected
greenhouse system. Although not the main focus of this thesis, information collected and
presented within this manuscript is beneficial and of value to commercial production of this
unique crop. Overall, high growth rates observed for Mrs. Burns Lemon and Aroma 2 varieties
suggest these varieties possess the greatest commercial production potential.
Although there is currently no cure for downy mildew, there are measures that can be
taken in commercial production to prevent downy mildew from occurring and to control the
severity of a downy mildew outbreak. It is increasingly common for the Ocimum basilicum
species to be marketed as resistant to downy mildew. However, additional research efforts are
needed to scientifically quantify levels of resistance and to aid in identification of cultivars that
9. 9
may be utilized for plant breeding to confer resistance to popular, susceptible cultivars.
Currently, it is recommended that commercial cultivators of Ocimum basilicum select cultivars
crossed with disease resistant varieties of basil, such as Ocimum citriodorum or Ocimum
americanum. If a pure Ocimum basilicum cultivar must be selected for production, it is
recommended that Red Rubin or Mrs. Burns Lemon be selected based upon our experimental
observations. In order to avoid an outbreak, maintenance of a warm, dry environment and the
avoidance of moisture on the basil leaves are vital.
Overall, Mrs. Burns Lemon did not possess significantly greater root mass than Aroma 2
or Red Rubin cultivars, despite greater plant height. Even though Aroma 2 had a shorter average
height than Mrs. Burns Lemon, the greater root mass of Aroma 2 indicates that Aroma 2 may
have a greater root:shoot ratio and a greater drought tolerance when compared to Mrs. Burns
Lemon and Red Rubin cultivars. A greater root:shoot ratio and its associated effect on a drought
tolerance may be beneficial when considering selection of cultivar for cultivation within a
greenhouse or transplant and establishment in the landscape given less water would be required
to cultivate healthy, high quality plants. This would likely have significant impact on
improvements in water conservation. Therefore, out of all three basil cultivars, Aroma 2 would
most likely be the most sustainable in terms of water utilization.
In regards to root hormone concentration influence on the growth of basil root mass, root
mass is generally increased following the application of 0.1% and 0.3%IBA. However, the root
mass of hormone treated propagates was not significantly higher than the root mass of untreated
propagates. In order to avoid deleterious effects to root development in these three basil
cultivars, it is not recommended to apply a root hormone concentration that is greater than 0.3%
IBA. Despite positive correlations between IBA application and root development in related
10. 10
research, our findings suggests root hormones are not significantly advantageous to commercial
production of basil. Additionally, our findings suggests that basil cultivar, not concentration of
root hormone, is of importance for root development. The natural tendency for increased, healthy
root development, or lack thereof, is what makes a particular basil cultivar sustainable or not
sustainable in the physical environment.
11. 11
References
Bekhradi, F., Luna, M., Delshad, M., Jordan, M., Sotomayor, J., Martínez-Conesa, C., & Gil, M.
(2015). Effect of deficit irrigation on the postharvest quality of different genotypes of
basil including purple and green Iranian cultivars and a Genovese variety. Postharvest
Biology and Technology, 100, 127-135. Retrieved June 10, 2015, from Web of Science.
Jayasinghe, Chamila, Naohiro Gotoh, Tomoko Aoki, and Shun Wada. "Phenolics Composition
and Antioxidant Activity of Sweet Basil ( Ocimum Basilicum L.)." J. Agric. Food
Chem. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 51.15 (2003): 4442-449. Web. 11
June 2015.
Loughrin, J., & Kasperbauer, M. (2003). Aroma Content of Fresh Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
Leaves Is Affected by Light Reflected from Colored Mulches. Journal of Agricultural
Food Chemistry, 2272-2276. Retrieved July 12, 2015, from Web of Science.
Luna, María C., Farzaneh Bekhradi, Federico Ferreres, María J. Jordán, Mojtaba Delshad, and
María I. Gil. "Effect of Water Stress and Storage Time on Anthocyanins and Other
Phenolics of Different Genotypes of Fresh Sweet Basil." J. Agric. Food Chem. Journal
of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 63.42 (2015): 9223-231. Web.
Maupin, Molly A., Joan Kenny, Susan S. Hutson, John K. Lovelace, Nancy L. Barber, and
Kristin S. Linsey. "Estimated Use of Water in the United States in 2010." USGS (2014):
25. Web.
McGrath, M. (2015). Expect and Prepare for Downy Mildew in Basil. Department of Plant
Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology, Cornell University, 1-6. Retrieved June 10, 2015,
from http://vegetablemdonline.ppath.cornell.edu/NewsArticles/BasilDowny.html
Purcino, M., Machado, M., & Biasi, L. (2012). Effect of Leaves on the Rooting of Cuttings of
Clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum L.) and anis (Ocimum selloi Benth). Revista De
12. 12
Ciências Agroveterinárias, 11(2), 93-98. Retrieved June 10, 2015, from CabDirect.
Sahoo, Y., Pattnaik, S., & Chand, P. (1997). In vitro Clonal Propagation of an Aromatic
Medicinal Herb Ocimum basilicum L. (Sweet Basil)by Axillary Shoot Proliferation. In
Vitro Cellular & Developmental Biology. Plant, 293-296. Retrieved July 12, 2015,
from Jstor.
Wyenandt, C., Simon, J., McGrath, M., & Ward, D. (2010). Susceptibility of Basil Cultivars and
Breeding Lines to Downy Mildew. HortScience, 45(9), 1416-1419. Retrieved June 10,
2015, from Web of Science.
13. 13
Appendix
Figure 1. Mean height of three basil (Ocimum basilicum) cultivars (n=72) from June 22, 2014
(Week 1) through July 27, 2014 (Week 6).
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Week 1 Week 2 Week 3 Week 4 Week 5 Week 6
Height(cm)
Weeks After Transplant
Height of Basil Cultivars
Red Rubin Mrs. Burns Lemon Aroma 2
14. 14
Figure 2. Dry root mass of three basil (Ocimum basilicum) cultivars (n=24) two weeks after
transplant planted into Fafard Growing Mix 2 soilless substrate. Error bars represent the standard
error of the mean.
b
b
a
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
Mrs. Burns Lemon Red Rubin Aroma 2
Dryrootmass(mg)
Cultivar
15. 15
Figure 3. Dry root mass of basil (Ocimum basilicum) (n=18) two weeks after transplant into
Fafard Growing Mix 2 soilless substrate propagated with 0%, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.8 indole-3-
butyric acid (IBA) rooting hormone treatments. Error bars represent the standard error of the
mean.
ab ab
a
b
0
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
0% 0.1% 0.3% 0.8%
Dryrootmass(mg)
Indole-3-butyric acid concentration
16. 16
Table 1. Height and leaf count of three basil (Ocimum basilicum) cultivars (Mrs. Burns Lemon,
Aroma 2, and Red Rubin) four weeks after transplantz
.
Cultivar Height (cm) Leaf count
Mrs. Burns Lemon 8 8
Aroma 2 4 6
Red Rubin 4 6
z
Means of 72 plants per cultivar.