Australian Journal of Crop Science   AJCS

Sowing depth and loads on press wheels in emergence, growth, and yield of safflower

Ricielly Eloyze Rosseto*, Reginaldo Ferreira Santos, Flávio Gurgacz, Jerry Adriani Johann, Fernando Kaiser, Doglas Bassegio, Pablo Chang, Claudia Maziero, Fernando Luiz da Cruz Balena, Cristiano Fernando Lewandoski, Paulo de Lima Bueno

Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná, UNIOESTE, CEP 85819130, Cascavel, PR, Brazil

Abstract
Safflower has recently been introduced to Brazil. This plant has attracted this view due to its properties and capacity to supply oil that can potentially be used both in the manufacture of biofuels and in the food industry. In order to contribute with studies for the viability of this crop in the country, which are still lacking in the management of seeding, the study aimed to assess the mechanization of seeding a safflower genotype in two seeding depths (4.5 and 6.5 cm) and three levels of loads applied to the wheels (117.7, 156.9, and 196.1N) in the emergence, growth, and grain yield. The experimental design of randomized complete block design arranged in factorial 2 × 3, with four replications. Seeding depth and loads on press wheels did not affect the emergence rate of safflower. The root length, plant height, stem diameter, and dry mass of the plant at 30 DAE were benefited by seeding in depth of 4.5 cm in relation to the depth of 6.5 cm. Higher grain yield was observed for loads of 196.1 N compared to the pressure of 117.7 N, with values of 725 and 443 kg ha–1, respectively. Grain yield was 61% higher when seeding at a depth of 4.5 cm. Thus, the adjustment of the compactor wheels can influence in the safflower seeding process.

Pages 608-613 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p2830
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Crop tillage, soil depth, and their influence on extracellular enzyme activities

Valéria Rodrigues de Sousa, Leciana de Menezes Sousa Zago, Danielle Gonçalves Teixeira dos Santos, Carlos Melo Silva-Neto, Samantha Salomão Caramori*

Laboratório de Biotecnologia, Câmpus Central, Universidade Estadual de Goiás, Rodovia BR 153, 3105, Faz. Barreiro do Meio, 75132-903, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil
Instituto Federal de Goiás, Cidade de Goiás, Brazil

Abstract
Agricultural practices can alter both physicochemical properties and soil microbial parameters, modifying the dynamics of soil biochemical functioning and, consequently, nutrient cycling. This study evaluated the effect of land use on chemical and biochemical attributes, and relationships between environmental variables. We used a sampling design to collect soil samples at different depths in different agroecosystems. Soil samples from natural ecosystems (native Cerrado) and agroecosystems (cotton and sugarcane cultivation) were collected at 0–0.1 m, 0.1–0.2 m, 0.2–0.5 m, and 0.5–1.0 m from 12 areas in the State of Goiás, Brazil. Twelve chemical properties and two biochemical attributes (enzyme activity and microbial biomass carbon) were evaluated using a generalized linear model of variance and Tukey’s test with three factors: correlation between all soil attributes, multiple regression between soil attributes, and biochemical variables. Soil chemical and biochemical attributes were significantly affected by variable depth (p<0.05). Most of the metabolic activity in the soil occurred at 0 to 0.2 m, independent of land use class. Seasonality also affected enzyme activity in the soil, with higher activity during the rainy season. In contrast, microbial biomass carbon, an attribute generally related to organic matter and carbon mineralization, did not vary significantly with different soil depths and seasons. Thus, enzyme activity is an important indicator of soil fertility variations and is more sensitive than chemical and microbial parameters.

Pages 614-620 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3691
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Zinc foliar spray enhances growth, yield and economic return of cassava variety Kasetsart 50 production

Benjapon Kunlanit* and Tanapon Siritrakulsak

Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Technology, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
Resource Management in Agricultural Technology Research Unit, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
Soil Organic Matter Management Research Group, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand

Abstract
Cassava is extensively cultivated in low fertility sandy soils in the Northeast Thailand. Low yield and economic return of cassava grown in this area is partly due to deficiency of micronutrients especially zinc (Zn). The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of foliar spray of Zn on growth, yield, quality and economic return of the cassava variety Kasetsart 50. Five treatments consisted of unfertilized control (T1), recommended fertilizer (formula (formula 15-15-15 at the rate of 313 kg ha-1) (T2), recommended fertilizer plus foliar spray of Zn at the rate of 6.25 kg ha-1 (2% Zn) (T3), recommended fertilizer plus foliar spray of Zn at the rate of 12.50 kg ha-1 (4% Zn) (T4) and recommended fertilizer plus foliar spray of Zn at the rate of 18.75 kg ha-1 (6% Zn) (T5). The treatments were assigned in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The crop was planted in a Korat soil series (loamy sand soil) under rainfed conditions. Data were recorded for soil chemical properties and plant growth parameters at 11 months after planting. The recommended fertilizer plus foliar spray of 2% Zn (T3) resulted in the highest fresh root yield (26.0 t ha-1), starch content (27.83%), and economic return over the fertilizer cost (960.0 USD ha-1), and the increases in fresh root yield, starch content and economic return over the fertilizer cost compared to T1 were 100, 54 and 69%, respectively. The results suggested that foliar spray of 2% Zn together with chemical fertilizer was effective in overcoming Zn deficiency in the loamy sand soils for cassava variety Kasetsart 50 production.

Pages 621-626 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3840
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Salvaging early generation seeds and enriching germplasm collection at the Genetic Resources Research Institute in Kenya

Jane Muthoni*, Hussein Shimelis, Victor W. Wasike, D. O. Nyamongo, J.I. Kamau and D.K. Muchira

Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), South Africa
African Centre for Crop Improvement, University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X01, Scottsxille 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Abstract
In Kenya, plant genetic resources are mainly conserved by Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI). The institute (formerly known as the National Genebank of Kenya) has to date amassed slightly over 51,000 (fifty-one thousand) accessions. Recently, GeRRI sought to forestall loss of germplasm in the hands of plant breeders/researchers from various local institutions. This was achieved by reaching out to these researchers and securing genetic materials i.e. advanced selections, breeder, pre-basic or basic seeds that need conservation. In addition, GeRRI sensitized the researchers on the existence of its conservation facilities which can be utilized to safeguard research materials. Visits were made to KALRO centres and local universities to enlighten the researchers/lecturers on availability of conservation facilities at GeRRI and to develop terms of engagement concerning depositing of seeds for safe custody. During the visits, a short questionnaire was administered to researchers by the GeRRI team. The questionnaire helped in gathering information about the various activities the researchers were engaged in, their understanding of GeRRI and her facilities as well as the services she offers. Only about 28 % of KALRO respondents have ever requested seeds from GeRRI compared to 42 % from the universities. These low percentages could be due to the fact that some researchers are not aware of the germplasm holdings at GeRRI and/or the process of requesting for the seeds. In addition, fewer respondents (about 17 % from universities and 8 % from KALRO centres) have ever deposited their seeds with GeRRI previously. Most local researchers keep their orthodox seeds in stores in paper bags/gunny bags/plastic bottles at room temperature. This leads to rapid seed degeneration and increases the need for frequent regeneration. Both KALRO and university researchers lauded GeRRI for organising collection of these early generation seeds and also requested the institute to undertake similar activities regularly.

Pages 627-630 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3871
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Mini-cutting as a technique to propagate Tabebuia aurea, an important tree found in tropical dry forests

Lohany Sthefany Souza, Francisco Edislan Gurgel Diógenes, Gleydson Vinicius dos Santos Silveira, Carlos José da Silva, Poliana Coqueiro Dias Araujo*

Federal Rural University of Rio Grande do Norte, Mossoró, Brazil

Abstract
Tabebuia aurea is a hardwood species from Brazil. This species yields high-quality wood for diverse applications and has a high value in phytosociological importance, but little has been done regarding an effective propagation method for large-scale production in nurseries. Alternatively, vegetative propagation techniques such as mini-cutting technology (an evolution of the cuttings technique) can be used, which has the potential to facilitate mini-stumps (stock plants), productive capacity, and vigour of the propagules (mini-cuttings). Therefore, this paper aimed to establish a protocol for vegetative propagation using the mini-cutting technique for Tabebuia aurea. For this, four independent experiments were conducted: the first evaluated the survival and production of mini-stumps between four harvests; the second tested the interaction between mini-cutting types (apical and intermediate) and different concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA; 0, 2.000, 4.000, and 6.000 mg.L-1) on adventitious rooting; the third analysed the effect of leaf area reduction (0%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) on mini-cuttings; and the fourth verified the substrate effect (100% coconut fibre, 50% coconut fibre + 50% commercial organic compost, and 100% commercial organic compost) on mini-cuttings rooting. The survival; percentage of rooted mini-cuttings; number of roots; length of the largest root; aerial dry mass; and root system dry mass were measured as response variables. The results indicated that all mini-stumps survived four harvests, remained productive, and produced propagules responsive to adventitious rooting. Rooting and mini-cutting survival rates were high, up to 80% without IBA, and the maximum mean setting value of 90% for apical mini-cuttings in the IBA concentration of 2000 mg.L-1 and 4000 mg.L-1 to intermediate mini-cuttings. Treatments without leaf reduction and with a reduction of 50% promoted better results concerning rooting and plant development. The substrate influences adventitious rooting; coconut fibre + organic compost (1:1) are indicated for the species propagation. For the highest system productivity, apical mini-cuttings with 2000 mg.L-1 of IBA, no leaf reduction, and coconut fibre + organic compost (1:1) are recommended as substrates.

Pages 631-638 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3892
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Correlations and path analysis of second-crop corn hybrids for maximum grain yield performance

Alan Mario Zuffo*, Augusto Matias de Oliveira, Jorge González Aguilera, Rafael Felippe Ratke, Fábio Steiner, Caique Menezes de Abreu, Wéverson Lima Fonseca, Adaniel Sousa dos Santos, Leandris Argentel-Martínez, Luis Morales-Aranibar, Hebert Hernán Soto Gonzales

State University of Maranhão, Department of Agronomy, Balsas, Maranhão, Brazil
Federal University of the Jequitinhonha and Mucuri Valleys, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Pantanal Editora, Nova Xavantina, MT, Brazil
Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Department of Crop Production, Chapadão do Sul, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
State University of Mato Grosso do Sul Department of Crop Production, Cassilândia, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Universidade Federal do Piauí, Colégio Técnico de Bom Jesus, BR 135, km 3, Planalto Horizonte, 64900000 - Bom Jesus, PI – Brasil
Universidade Federal do Piauí, BR 135, km 3, Planalto Horizonte, 64900000 - Bom Jesus, PI, Brasil
Tecnológico Nacional de México, Campus Valle del Yaqui. Bácum CP: 85276, Sonora, México
Universidad Nacional Intercultural de Quillabamba, Cusco, Peru; (LMA)
Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Biotecnología, Escuela Profesional de Ingeniería Ambiental, Universidad Nacional de Moquegua (UNAM), Ilo 18611, Peru

Abstract
The aim was to estimate the correlation coefficients and their direct and indirect effects through path analysis between agronomic traits that modulate the grain yield of second-crop corn hybrids. The hybrids SYN7G17 TL, 30F53VYHR, B2433PWU and AG 8700 PRO3 were employed. The following agronomic traits were evaluated: leaf nitrogen content, ear height, ear length, ear diameter, number of rows of grains per ear, number of grains per row, mass of a thousand grains, grain yield and grain protein content. Estimates of phenotypic correlation of all combinations of traits were calculated, and then the development of phenotypic correlations in direct and indirect effects was evaluated through path analysis, where grain yield was considered the main variable and the others were considered explanatory variables. Grain yield correlated strongly and positively with thousand-grain mass (0.83) and ear diameter (0.72). In the path analysis to tested conditions, no significant indirect effect was observed. However, the mass of a thousand grains and the ear diameter had a significant direct effect on the grain yield of corn, indicating that the selection of these characteristics can help to improve the grain yield in lines of corn.

Pages 639-644 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3911
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Potential of green manure in the phytoremediation of the herbicide indaziflam after different times of application

Rafaela Oliva da Silva, Beatriz Fogolari Boteon, Luiz Gustavo Castro Guidette, Bruna Ferrari Schedenffeldt, Andreia Cristina Silva Hirata, Patrícia Andrea Monquero

FAPESP scholarship, Federal University of São Carlos, Araras, São Paulo, Brazil
Agricultural Science Center, Federal University of São Carlos, Araras, São Paulo, Brazil
APTA Regional, Presidente Prudente, São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract
The identification of species that promote phytoremediation of herbicides is of great relevance to reduce the impact of these products on the environment. This study aims to evaluate the efficiency of plant species in the phytoremediation of the indaziflam herbicide. The phytoremediation potential for indaziflam of 15 species of green manure was evaluated at different sowing times of the Phaseolus vulgaris (bioindicator), after the herbicide application. P. vulgaris was sown after the removal of the aerial part of the selected green manure. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse, and each green manure species was evaluated separately in a completely randomized design, with four replications. The treatments were arranged in a 3 x 5 factorial layout, consisting of three doses of indaziflam (0, 75 and 100g a.i. ha-¹) and five sowing times (5, 30, 60, 90 and 120 days after the herbicide application). According to the phytotoxicity and biometric evaluations of green manure, the potential species for the phytoremediation of the indaziflam were selected. The results showed that, apart from the species Lupinus albus, Canavalis ensiformis and Mucuna cinerea, the other green manure evaluated were highly susceptible to the herbicide indaziflam. However, although these potential species presented less control by indaziflam, none of them were effective in their soil phytoremediation. The bioindicator showed high phytotoxicity and reduction of dry mass due to the herbicide, regardless of the green manure sowing season on both doses of indaziflam. As a phytoremediator, none of the green manure species were effective for indaziflam even after 120 days of the herbicide application.

Pages 645-652 | Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3920
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Minor root and tuber crops in Africa: Cocoyams (Colocasia esculenta and Xanthosoma sagittifolium)

Jane Muthoni*, Hussein Shimelis

Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya
African Centre for Crop Improvement, University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X01, Scottsxille 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

Abstract
Cocoyams [taro: Colocasia esculentum (L.) Schott and tannia: Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schott] are staple tuber crops in many countries in Africa, Asia and the Pacific. This review aims to present the value of cocoyam as a minor tuber crop and the extent and challenges of its production in Africa. Cocoyams are primarily grown for their edible corms or cormels, although other parts, such as stalks, leaves and inflorescence, are used for human consumption. Cocoyams are categorized as neglected food crops mainly grown for subsistence use. Taro is more widely grown than tannia globally. Taro is cultivated all over Africa, although West and Central Africa are the main producing regions. Tannia is mainly grown in West Africa where it is still less common than taro. Production of tannia is generally minimal and rarely appears in cocoyam output statistics for the continent. Africa is the main producer of cocoyam, accounting for over 70% of the global output; the bulk of production occurs in the West and Central African region. Despite the high production, food value and economic opportunities, African cocoyam is rarely sold in the international markets. The crop is cultivated to meet food security at small-scale and family farms. It is mostly consumed and marketed locally in fresh state. Cocoyams are commonly produced by resource-limited smallholder farmers who are mostly women. The crop is cultivated on marginal lands where primitive technologies with little inputs are employed. The crop receives little attention from mainstream research organizations in Africa. Other constraints limiting cocoyam production in Africa include a shortage of planting materials, lack of improved high-yielding cultivars, and paucity of information on the proper agronomic practices, and insect pests and diseases, among others. Industrial use and new product developments of cocoyam in Africa should be explored to enhance the crop's economic value, and by extension attract research attention.

Pages 653-663 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3921
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Chemical composition and bioactivity of essential oils from Piper nigrum L. and Piper retrofractum Vahl. against Callosobruchus maculatus (F.)

Ruchuon Wanna*, Darika Bunphan, Mongkol Wongsawas

Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Technology, Mahasarakham University, Kantarawichai District, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
Resource Management in Agricultural Technology Research Unit, Mahasarakham University, Kantarawichai District, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand

Abstract
Plants containing substances with insecticidal properties can be used for pest control. Essential oils of Piper nigrum L. and Piper retrofractum Vah. from dried seeds and fresh leaves extracted by hydrodistillation was determined using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The fumigation toxicity and bioactivity bioassay were investigated using vapor-phase test. Experiment was performed under completely randomized design (CRD) with 4 replications. Adult mortality, number of eggs and adult emergence of F1 progeny of C. maculatus were recorded. Chemical compounds of essential oils from dried seeds and fresh leaves of P. nigrum and P. retrofractum were determined at 22-27 components (90.34-93.27%). Major compounds in dried seeds and fresh leaves of P. nigrum and P. retrofractum were alpha-bergamotene, caryophyllene, beta-selinene, germacrene D, naphthalene, undecane, 5-octadecene, cyclohexene, limonene and 2-beta-pinene. Both essential oils contained limonene, linalool, caryophyllene and naphthalene in seeds and leaves. These four components showed insecticidal properties. Essential oils at concentrations of 5 µL/L air P. nigrum and 10 µL/L air P. retrofractum extracted from dried seeds were more effective in oviposition inhibition and adult emergence of C. maculatus than essential oils extracted from fresh leaves. P. nigrum essential oil from dried seeds at a concentration of 5 µL/L air was the highest efficiency of oviposition inhibition with 55.17% and adult emergence inhibition of 71.09% of C. maculatus. This suggested that P. nigrum essential oil extracted from dried seeds could be used for protection on C. maculatus in stored grain.

Pages 664-670 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3940
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Importance of bioprotector in growth and yield of soybean plants

Fábio Santos Matos, Larissa Pacheco Borges, Nathália Carvalho Cardoso, Jaime Santos do Rego Júnior, Amanda Ayda Garcia Basílio, Mariana Souza Gratão, Arielle Gonçalves Abdala, Víctor Alves Amorim

Grupo de Pesquisa da Fisiologia da Produção Vegetal, Universidade Estadual de Goiás, unidade de Ipameri, Brazil, Rodovia GO 330 Km 241, Anel Viário, ZIP Code 75780-000, Ipameri, Brazil

Abstract
Bioprotectors are resistance inducers recently launched on the market for several plant species and may represent an important tool for increasing the productivity of the soybean crop. The present study aimed to identify the effects of H2 Protector in growth and yield of soybean plants. The experiment was carried out in an agricultural production area at Ipameri city with NS 7505 IPRO soybean cultivar in 115 days cycle. The experiment was set up following the randomized block design, three replications and 9m2 plot. To perform the treatments, it was used the commercial product H2 Protector with 300 ml ha-1 concentration and 150 L ha-1 flow rate with addition of mineral oil H2 Citrus. The treatments corresponded to the use of the bioprotector in different phenological stages of the soybean plants in a clinical way or overlapping applications in the previous stage: control, V4, R2, R5, V4+R2, V4+R5, R2+R5 and V4+R2+R5. The application of H2 Protector as bioprotector has biostimulant role in plants cultivated without stress conditions and must be applied with two applications to obtain high yield in soybean plants in V4+R2 or R2+R5 growth stages. The H2 Protector when applied in soybean plants in V4 growth stage increased growth and with a second application in R2 (V4+R2) resulted in higher yield of 17.3% corresponding to 636 kg ha-1 (kg hectare-1). H2 Protector when used in R2+R5 growth stages increase in 18.4% soybean grain yield corresponding to 678 kg ha-1. In this way, the use in two phenological stages becomes economically viable, since the costs represent 10% of the increase in productivity.

Pages 671-676 | Full Text PDF| doi: 10.21475/ajcs.23.17.08.p3941