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Effect of Crop Establishment Method, Residue and Nutrient Management on Productivity of Rice-Wheat Cropping System at Rupandehi, Bhairahawa, Nepal
The puddling operation and multiple tillage operations done in traditional rice-wheat system have negative impact on soil resulting into low productivity of rice - wheat system. A field experiment was conducted to find the alternate practices for enhancing the productivity of rice-wheat system at National Wheat Research Program, Bhairahawa during 2018/19. Three crop establishment methods: surface seeded wheat (SSW) followed by (fb) unpuddled transplanted rice (U-TPR), zero tilled wheat (ZTW) fb zero tilled direct seeded rice (ZT-DSR) and conventionally tilled wheat (CTW) fb puddled transplanted rice (PTR) were tested in two levels of residue management: residue removed (R0) and residue retention (R50). Three levels of nutrient management: recommended dose of NPK (F100), 25% higher dose of NPK (F125) and farmer’s practice (FP) were assigned in wheat. Strip-split plot design with 3 replications was used in wheat while strip-plot design with 9 replications was used in rice. Crop establishment methods (CSM) were assigned in vertical strips; residue management in horizontal blocks and nutrient management were assigned in subplots. The number of tillers at maximum tillering stage, maximum leaf area index, effective tiller per square meter and number of grains per spike of wheat were significantly affected by CSM, where ZTW had shown better results (413.7 tillers, 2.12 LAI, 224.1 effective tiller per square meter and 34.27 grains per spike) than SSW and CTW but the CSM had no significant effect on grain yield of both rice and wheat crop. R0 had produced significantly higher straw yield than R50 of both rice and wheat, whereas, R50 had produced significantly higher harvest index than R0 in rice. The application of 25% more nutrients than the recommended dose resulted in the significantly better growth, yield attributes, and yield of wheat. The ZTW fb ZT-DSR had produced significantly higher system yield than SSW fb U-TPR where, CTW fb PTR was statistically at par with both systems. The recommended dose of nutrients (F100) and 25% higher than F100 (F125) had produced significantly higher system yield than farmer’s practice (FP) dose. Research results revealed that ZTW fb ZT-DSR system can be suggested instead of traditional CTW fb PTR system without significant yield differences.
Copyright (c) 2024 Agronomy Society of Nepal (ASoN) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Study on Omission Plot Technique in Popcorn
There are various limiting factors in production of popcorn in Nepal among one of them is lack of limited information on nutrient management particularly the macronutrient nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at National Agronomy Research Centre, Khumaltar, Nepal to study the limiting nutrient for popcorn Lumle yellow in 2022/23 and 2023/24 in loam soil. The experiment consisted of five treatments and four replications arranged in randomized complete block design. Five different treatment comprised of FYM (unfertilized/farmer practice), –N,+PK (N omitted), -P,+NK (P omitted) ,-K+NP (K omitted), +NPK applied plots. In 2022/23 and 2023/24 +NPK applied treatment produced significantly highest grain yield of 4.27 t ha-1 and 3.13 t ha-1 while N omitted treatment gave lowest grain yield of 1.36 t ha-1 and 1.30 t ha-1 respectively and this yield was at par with only FYM applied treatment. Grain yield levels obtained for different fertilizer treatments were ranked as +NPK>-P,+NK>-K,+NP>FYM>-N. The results concluded that application of optimum doses of three primary nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium were essential to achieve optimum growth and productivity of maize.
Assessment of Soil Fertility Status in Vegetable Growing Area of Daman-Palung, Nepal
Soil fertility assessment is essential for sustainable planning for a particular area. Considering this, a study was conducted in November 2018, to determine the soil fertility status of the vegetable growing area of Makwanpur district, Nepal. In total, 50 soil samples were collected randomly from a depth of 0-20 cm using a soil sampling auger. A standard analytical method was used to analyze the texture, soil pH, (Organic matter (OM), Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P2O5), and Potassium (K2O) status of samples at the National Soil Science Research Centre, Khumaltar. The sand, silt and clay content were 45.67±2.08, 35.6±51.37 and 18.49±0.93 respectively and were indicated as loam and sandy loam in texture. The soil was moderately acidic (pH 5.11±0.5) in nature. Soil organic matter ranged from low to medium but the medium (3.37±1.72 %) was prevalent. Total nitrogen content (0.22±0.01 %) and available phosphorus (230.58 ±85.61 ppm), were found to be high. Furthermore, available potassium (97.4±70.04 ppm) content was medium in the soil. The purpose of this soil fertility assessment is to help researchers and farmers in Daman, Palung know the soil fertility status of their area and to guide sustainable soil fertility practices. This soil fertility assessment aims to help researchers and farmers in Daman, Palung understand soil fertility status and determine the best soil fertility practices for their area.
Adoption and Impact of Rainwater Harvesting Technology in Nepal
The rainwater harvesting (RWH) technology has been introduced to upland farmers in Nepal who have been practicing rain-fed subsistence agriculture. Using cross-sectional household level data from 282 farmers in four districts of Makwanpur, Palpa, Gulmi and Syangja, probit and treatment-effects models were used to identify factors that influence the adoption of RWH and its impact on farm income. The adoption of rain water harvesting was mostly driven by trainings that farmers received while controlling for age, poverty status and off-farm income. The adoption of RWH technology more than doubles household agricultural and livestock income. Instrumental variable approach was used to check the robustness of the findings. Adopters benefited from an increased supply of irrigation water, which allows them to diversify their crops from cereal production to high-value crops during dry season. Given the many weather-related uncertainties faced by rainfed farmers in Nepal, rain water harvesting is potentially a very useful climate adaptation strategy. These results were robust to alternative model specification and estimation method.
Genotype by Environment Interaction Using AMMI, GGE Biplot and Multivariate Analysis of Nepalese Aromatic Rice Landraces
Aromatic group of rice comprises fine, medium, long and extra-long grain that has rich in agro-biodiversity, carries historical and cultural significance in Nepalese society. The objective was to identify stable, high-yielding aromatic rice landraces for Nepal Thirty aromatic rice landraces including two released varieties as standard checks were evaluated at three locations during 2020 and 2021. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The combined analysis of variance indicated differences among genotypes and genotype-environment interactions for grain yield. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analysis revealed that genotypic effects for 69%, genotype × environment interaction effects for 28% and environmental effects accounted for 3% of the total sum of squares. Similarly, GGE biplot analysis showed that the principal components (PC1 and PC2) accounted for 53% and 47% of the GGE sum of squares, respectively. Based on AMMI1, AMMI2 biplots, and GGE biplots, the genotypes Samba Masuli Sub-1 and Sugandhit Dhan-1 were identified as the high yielding and stable fine and aromatic rice landraces. Other promising genotypes are Damari Dhan, Tilki, Hiupuri, Kalo Basmati, Gouriya, and Brahmamusi Dhan. Specifically, Samba Masuli Sub-1 demonstrated the highest grain yield performance at the NRRP, Hardinath, while Sunaulo Sugandha and Balamsari Dhan excelled in the Tarahara and Khajura environments, respectively. In PCA analysis, four PCs showed significant eigen value >1.0 contributing more than 84% of total variance. Biplot analysis reflected that 1000 grain weight, panicle length, heading and maturity days, and grain yield showed greater variation among the landraces. The results provide a robust basis for the further evaluation and verification of this findings in advance stage trials. The superior and outstanding landraces with higher yields and aroma are potential future varieties that can be either use directly as varieties after selection or utilize in future breeding programs for the development of new aromatic rice varieties.
Evaluation of Promising Lines and Biofortified Varieties of Wheat in Tikapur, Kailali, Nepal
Variety is one of the major factors affecting the productivity of wheat in Nepal. To compare the performance of promising lines, zinc fortified wheat and popular varieties of wheat, the field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design at Agronomy farm of Far Western University, Tikapur, Kailali during November 2022. Observations were made on the growth stages, plant height, yield attributing traits and yields. The results revealed significant variation among the varieties at 5% level of significance. Among the promising lines compared, NL 1451 was significantly superior (p≤0.05) in yielding the number of effective tillers (338), grains per spike (48), grain yield (3.79 t ha-1) and straw yield (7.07 t ha-1) but BL 4951 had significantly smallest plant height and spike length. Similarly, NL 1446 also performed better after NL 1451 yielding more than 3.5 t ha-1. Among the recommended varieties compared, Zinc gahun-2 performed poorly than Zinc gahun-1 in all the parameters except for total tiller count, effective tiller count, grain filling period and peduncle length. BL 4951 outperformed all the Nepal lines and varieties in plant height and spike length but could not perform better in other parameters.
Effects of Organic Manures and Foliar Sprays on Growth and Yield of Finger Millet
Experiments were conducted at the Centre of Excellence in Millets, Athiyandal, Thiruvannamalai, India to evaluate various organic nutrient sources with foliar application over three seasons from kharif 2015 to 2017 in Split Plot Design (SPD). Applying farmyard manure (FYM) @ 12.5 t ha-1 along with in-situ incorporation of sunhemp green manuring SGM @ 6.50 t ha-1 at 45 days after planting (DAP) resulted in higher grain and straw yields of 2,420 kg ha-1 and 3,549 kg ha-1, respectively. A foliar spray of Panchakavya at a 3% concentration increased grain and straw yields to 2,423 kg ha-1 and 3,338 kg ha-1. The B4 treatment yielded the highest gross income (₹84,724 ha-1), net income (₹55,372 ha-1), and benefit-cost ratio (2.84). Vermicompost application at 5 t ha-1 led to lower gross income. Among the foliar sprays, Panchakavya at 3% produced the highest gross income (₹84,478 ha-1), net income (₹43,534 ha-1), and benefit-cost ratio (2.36), followed by vermiwash at 3%.
Performance of Single Cross Maize Hybrids for Summer Planting in Western Nepal
In addition to being a major source of food, feed, and fodder, maize is one of the important cereals for the livelihood of hill farmers in Nepal. Low maize productivity in the western hills of Nepal has traditionally been associated with the absence of high yielding varieties. The purpose of this study was to find single cross maize hybrids that would be highly productive and adaptable for summer planting in western hills of Nepal. An alpha lattice design with three replications was used to evaluate one hundred single cross hybrids, including checks at NMRP, Rampur; DoAR, Surkhet; and DoAR, Doti during the summer season of 2019. In the evaluated maize hybrids, all measured traits showed significant genetic variation, indicating the presence of substantial genetic diversity among tested hybrids and significant genotype by environmental interaction highlighting the variable performance across locations. RML-145/RL-105, RML-97-1/RML-98, RML-145/RML-146, RML-138/RML-2, and RML-97-2/RL-105 was among the top 17 hybrids with grain yields of 8-9 t ha1. Significant correlations of grain yield with plant height, ear height, test weight, cob length, and cob diameter suggest that these are the important traits while selecting the hybrids for yield. The study also employed 20 SSR markers to explore genetic diversity of 25 inbred lines which were used for developing top yielding hybrids, grouped these inbred lines into five distinct cluster showed moderate genetic diversity, and higher yield performance of hybrids associated with diverse background of parental lines. The genotype by environment interactions highlights the importance of multilocation testing to ensure consistent or location specific performance across varied conditions. The results suggest the possibility of exploring high yielding, adaptive, and location specific hybrids that can help to enhance maize productivity of western Nepal and narrow down the yield gap.
Determination of Indigenous Nutrient Supplying Capacity of Soil through Omission Plot Technique in Wheat at Bhairahawa
The rapidly expanding intensive cropping systems in the Terai region of Nepal, combined with imbalanced fertilization, are leading to significant nutrient depletion in agricultural soils, raising concerns about the sustainability of wheat production. To address this issue, a field experiment was conducted at the National Wheat Research Program (NWRP) in Bhairahawa, Rupandehi, during 2018-19 to evaluate the soil’s nutrient-supplying capacity and its impact on wheat grain yield. The treatments included five different nutrient levels: N- omission (75:75:5:1 P2O5:K2O:Zn:B kg ha-1), P-omission (150:75:5:1 N:K2O:Zn:B kg ha-1), K-omission (150:75:5:1 N:P2O5:Zn:B kg ha-1), adequate NPK (150:75:75, N:P2O5:K2O kg ha-1), and adequate NPK+Zn+B (150:75:75:5:1 N:P2O5:K2O:Zn:B kg ha-1). The trial was laid out in a randomized complete block design with five replications, planted in five different blocks of the National Wheat Research Program (NWRP), Bhairahawa, with each block treated as a replication. Data on growth, yield attributes, grain yield, and nutrient uptake were analyzed using the Genstat statistical package. The results showed that plant height, dry matter production, spike length, grains per spike, biological yield, and grain yield variables were significant (P< 0.05), while 1000 grain weight and harvest index were not significant (P>0.05). Total N, P, and K uptake were significant (P<0.05) in different treatments, with adequate NPK showing higher NPK uptake and significantly lower in N- omission treatment. Grain yield was higher in fully fertilized treatment than in nutrient omission treatments, with significantly lower grain yield in N- omission followed by P- omission treatments. Among the major nutrients, nitrogen was found to be the most limiting factor, followed by phosphorus and potassium for wheat. Based on these results, it can be concluded that a balanced amount of NPK nutrients should be supplied to enhance the indigenous nutrient-supplying capacity of the soil and improve wheat productivity in Bhairahawa.
Identification of Soybean Mosaic Virus Resistant Soybean Genotypes using Gene-Linked Markers
Soybean is widely consumed legumes both in the form of food and feed. In the present scenario, the quality and quantity of soybean production is largely affected by different biotic factors, Soybean Mosaic Virus being one of the major biotic stress. Plant host resistance is an effective major to develop durable resistance from viral diseases, therefore understanding the molecular mechanism and identifying the resistant genotypes can contribute to resistance breeding in soybean. In 2020, ninety genotypes collected from Grain Legume Research Program, local collection and National Agricultural Genetic Resource Center were screened for the presence of resistant genes using gene linked molecular markers. Among them, three genotypes were identified with Soybean Mosaic Virus resistant loci, Rsv1 amplified by linked marker Satt114, four genotypes were identified with resistant loci, Rsv3 with linked marker Sat_424, and eight genotypes were identified with resistant loci, Rsv4 amplified by linked marker Satt558. Thus, showing expression of dominant resistance to some SMV strains. Interestingly, two genotypes (Co 175 and TGx1990-55) possessed both Rsv1 and Rsv3 loci thus showing potential of resisting broad spectrum SMV resistance to all SMV strains. Therefore, this study has identified potential genotypes that can be used as parental materials for resistant gene pyramiding in soybean breeding for SMV resistance
Effect of Different Weed Management Practices on growth and yield in Potato at Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal
Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is the fifth most important crops in the world in terms of production with an estimate of 375 million metric tons. In Nepal, potato ranks second in terms of production and sixth in terms of area coverage. Potato production is affected by weed infestation. Weeds compete with crops for nutrients, water and other resources, which eventually reduce the crop yield. The critical period of crop-weed competition for potato is 25-40 days from planting depending on the climatic-zone and planting seasons. The most common method of weed control in Nepal is manual method, while herbicides are uses in less areas. Weeds are considered as the major problem in conventional and organic farming, due to lower yields by weeds and higher costs of labor for weed control. Mulching is one of the best and safest practice for effective weed management in potato due to which micro-climate manipulation is developed. Metribuzin is widely used herbicides in potato that controls a range of broadleaf weed species and suppresses many grassy weeds. To study the performance of different weed management practices in potato ten treatments were set up viz., three herbicides (pendimethalin@ 1.0 kg a.i ha-1, metribuzin@ 0.5 kg a.i ha-1 and atrazine @ 0.25 kg a.i ha-1) constituting seven treatments, one mulching with rice straw, one treatment with two manual hoeing, and another treatment with no any weed management practices as control.The treatments were laid out in RCB design with 4 replications. The potato variety Janak Dev was planted on 12th Feb 2021 and 23rd Jan 2022 with tuber rate of 4.1 t.ha-1 with row spacing of 60 cm and plant to plant 20 cm in a plot size of 4 x 3 meter in flat bed. Growth parameters such as plant height, plant fresh and dry biomass were recorded. Data on weed density, weed dry biomass, and tuber yield were taken.The economics of the different treatments were calculated. Among the treatments metribuzin@ 0.25 kg a.i ha-1 as pre-emergence proved effective in controlling weeds showing highest weed control efficiency (200.7 %) and tuber yield (32.79 t ha-1) . However, the treatment rice straw mulch @ 6 t ha-1 produced the highest tuber yield (38.31 t ha-1), 73.4 % increased yield over control, weed control efficiency(147.1%), economic benefit (NRS 13,40,850), benefit cost ratio (4.93).The treatment rice straw mulch @ 6 t ha-1 showed superiority among the different weeds management practices.
Copyright (c) 2024 Agronomy Society of Nepal (ASoN) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of Different Sowing Dates on Yield and Yield component traits of Wheat
An experiment was conducted in winter season of 2020/21 and 2021/22 to evaluate the effects of different sowing dates on phenological traits, yield attributing traits and grain yield of wheat. The experiment was carried-out in Agronomy farm of National Agronomy Research Center, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal. The experiment was conducted in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six sowing dates (10 Nov, 20 Nov, 30 Nov, 10 Dec, 20 Dec and 30 Dec) as treatment which were replicated four times. Wheat variety Swargdwari was used in the experiment. During the experiment, we took different observations starting from phenological parameters to yield traits like days to 50% flowering, days to 90% maturity, plant height, spike length, number of grains per spike, number of tillers per square meter, thousand grain weight, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index. The combined ANOVA of two years revealed that there was significant effect of sowing dates on days to 50% flowering, days to 90% maturity, plant height at physiological maturity, spike length, straw yield and grain yield of wheat. Number of grains per spike found non-significant. Number of tillers per square meter was found maximum (374.1) m-2 on 20 Nov. Thousand grain weight was found maximum on 10 Nov which was 54.37 g followed by 20 Nov with 51.77g. Straw yield was found the highest on 10 Nov which was 9.05 tha-1 followed by 7.83 tha-1 on 20 Nov. Similar result was shown by grain yield with maximum value of 6.13 tha-1 on 10 Nov followed by 20 Nov which is 5.90 tha-1. Harvest index was found maximum on 10 Dec with 0.49. Nov sowing had more vegetative growth contributing higher straw yield and low economic return. Therefore, it is concluded that 10 Nov is optimum time for wheat sowing in Kathmandu valley and similar agro-climatic regions.
Growth, Yield and Quality Attributes of Determinate Tomato Genotypes in Parwanipur, Bara of Nepal
With the aim of identifying suitable open pollinated determinate tomato genotypes, investigation was carried out at Directorate of Agricultural Research (DoAR), Parwanipur in two consecutive winter seasons of 2020/21 and 2021/22. Experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 16 treatments and replicated thrice. Crop geometry was maintained 75×60 cm and fertilizers and manure was applied at the rate of 200:150:120 kg N: P2O5:K2O kg + 20 tons FYM per hectare. Analysis of results showed significant variation in yield and yield attributing characters among genotypes. The maximum plant height (75.67 cm) was recorded on genotypes AVTO 0301.The genotypes AVTO 1716 and AVTO 0301 showed significantly earlier to 50% flowering (45 days) while AVTO 1711 recorded shortest days to first harvest (81 days). The highest plant vigour (5 scales) showed by AVTO 1712, AVTO 0302 and Pusa Ruby check variety. The maximum fruit diameter (7.52 cm), length (6.54 cm) and fruit weight (49.9 g) recorded on genotype AVTO 1711. The highest number of fruits/ plant (56.7) and marketable yield (58.08 t ha-1) was recorded in AVTO 1610 and AVTO 1711 respectively. The genotype AVTO 1712 showed the highest firmness (1.92 kg cm-2) and Vitamin C (59.36 mg/ 100 g). The maximum pericarp thickness of fruits (7.43 mm) obtained on AVTO 1610. The genotype Pusa Ruby showed the maximum total soluble solid (5.6 Obrix) and Titratable acid 0.75 %. Similarly, the highest colorimetric value of a* (12.62) was recorded on Pusa Ruby and the highest value of b* (19.37) was found on AVTO 1713 while the highest value of L* (30.56) was observed on AVTO 171. Considering the overall performance, genotypes AVTO 1711, AVTO 1702 and AVTO 1712 were performed better in terms of the highest yield and other horticultural traits.
Assessment of Agronomic Traits and Molecular Diversity Using SSR Markers in Soyabean, (Glycine Max (L.) Merr. Accessions in Nepal
Soybean, (Glycine max (L.) Merr. is an important multipurpose pulse crop that provides edible oil and protein, and improves soil fertility. In spite of being rich in germplasms, the genetic diversity of soybean in Nepal is still underexplored. The purpose of this study is to examine the phenotypic and molecular diversity of soybean by utilizing morphological features in conjunction with simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. A total of 150 soybean germplasms received from different sources were used for field study at DoAR, Dasharathpur; GLRP, Rampur, and NARC, Khumaltar in consecutive years 2019 and 2020 whereas 141 germplasms were used for molecular study with 30 SSR markers at NBTRC, Khumaltar. Genotypes differed in phenotypic traits, the expression of different agronomic traits and biomass are influenced by genetic differences. The SSR markers supported the presence of genetic diversity showing 124 alleles and 89.11% polymorphism, and an average PIC value of 0.795. Hierarchical clustering and principal coordinate analysis also supported the presence of genetic variation and relationship among the studied genotypes. This study offers insightful information for utilizing these germplasms in future crop improvement in Nepal.
Response of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek) to Rhizobium inoculation and Irrigation Schedule in Siraha, Nepal
Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) productivity in Nepal is indeed lower compared to its potential yield due to inadequate nutrient management and soil moisture depletion. Use of effective plant growth promoting bacteria and proper irrigation scheduling in mungbean can enhance its production and productivity. To study the response of Rhizobium inoculation and irrigation schedule on growth and yield of mungbean, a field experiment was conducted in a split-plot field layout at a farmers' field in Dhangadimai Municipality, Siraha, Nepal from March 2023 to June 2023. The treatments consisted of four levels of irrigation (i.e. Rainfed, Irrigation at vegetative stage (V), irrigation at reproductive stage (R) and irrigation at both (V and R) in main plots and two levels of biofertilizer (with and without Rhizobium inoculation) in sub plots which was replicated three times. Plant height, leaf numbers, number of effective branches, pod length, and grain per pod were recorded highest in mungbean inoculated with rhizobium, and irrigation at both V and R stages. The highest grain yield (1.81 Mtha-1) was obtained from the treatment having irrigation at both V and R stages, followed by irrigation scheduled at R (1.56 Mtha-1), V (1.47 Mtha-1), and rainfed condition (1.34 Mtha-1). The grain yield was higher in inoculated (1.58 Mtha-1) than in non-inoculated mungbean (1.50 Mtha-1). Rhizobium inoculated crops irrigated during V stage only, irrigated during R stage only and irrigated at both V and R stages increased grain yield by 6.32%, 5% and 17% respectively as compared to rainfed conditions. Number of effective nodules per plant was 79 % higher in inoculated (15.72) than in non-inoculated plots (4). The best combination was found in the treatment where irrigation was applied in both V and R stages with Rhizobium inoculation. Thus, application of rhizobium inoculation and irrigation at V and R stages showed a positive response to growth parameters, yield attributing characters, and yield.
Factors Influencing the Use and Choice of Formal Agriculture Credit Sources among Rice Farmers in Chitwan District, Nepal
Agriculture credit is important to sustain and further improve farming practices among rice farmers in developing countries like Nepal. Agriculture credit from formal sources safeguard farmers from fraud and misconduct which are common in informal sources. An investigation was carried out in Chitwan district of Nepal during January, 2023 to identify the factors influencing the use of formal agriculture credit among rice farmers. Further, factors influencing choice of sources among formal agriculture credit users was also assessed. Using random sampling, 59 formal agriculture credit users and 46 informal agriculture credit users were used for the study. Descriptive statistics and logit model were used to interpret the findings. Results revealed that use of formal agriculture credit increases with availability of off-farm income source and membership to agricultural cooperatives among farm household. Efforts should be made to promote participation in agricultural cooperatives to increase usage of formal agriculture credit among farm household. Similarly, choice of cooperatives over bank and microfinance increases with less formal education of the household head and non-availability of off-farm income source among farm household. Likely, choice of bank increases with no participation in agricultural cooperatives and choice of microfinance increases with higher contact with extension workers. Agriculture cooperatives should be further strengthened to provide timely and adequate credit, as it seems to support formal credit users characterized by lower formal education and no off-farm income source.
Validation of Digital Soil Map in Maize Growing Areas of Chitwan, Nepal
National Soil Science Research Centre of the Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC) with technical support from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center developed Digital Soil Map (DSM), a web-based information system, in 2020 using the legacy data with a geospatial model using a random forest machine learning prediction approach. The map generated with the model predicted values besides geo-referenced points that require further validation. Since DSM was launched, no work has been done to validate the map. We sampled 452 points from all municipalities of the Chitwan district using a gridded sampling approach to validate the existing predicted values of the DSM. We found that the observed values such as soil texture, soil organic matter, and total nitrogen content were similar to the range values of DSM. Still, a discrepancy was found between the available potassium and phosphorous. In the majority of areas, the observed value of available soil potassium (20 – 450 kg K ha-1 ± 15 kg K ha-1) was found lower compared to the DSM values (118 – 330 kg K ha-1), however, available phosphorous (55 – 230 kg P ha-1 ± 10 kg P ha-1) was found higher compared to DSM range values (11 – 139 kg P ha-1). The maize growing area of Chitwan was found suitable with soil pH (6.4 – 6.8) and other nutrients except for available soil potassium. Most of the areas from Eastern and Western Chitwan reported potassium mining, which needs to be considered in balancing nutrients in field crops.
Response of Spring Rice Varieties to Different Nitrogen Management Practices in Kapilvastu, Nepal
The study was carried out at the farmer’s field in Tilkahana, Kapilvastu from February 2020 – June 2020. The objectives of the study were determining the better variety nitrogen management practices for spring rice cultivation. The study was conducted in Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design replicated thrice. Factor A includes spring rice varieties viz. Chaite-5 and Hardinath-3. Factor B includes the nitrogen management practices adopted which were: Recommended dose of N at 3 equal splits, 1/3 at basal +1/3 at 20 DAT + 1/3 at 45 DAT; Recommended dose of N at 3 splits, ¼ at basal + ½ at 20 DAT + ¼ at 45 DAT; N application using leaf color chart (LCC); Zero N, Control and Farmer’s Fertilizer Practices (FFP). Rice seedlings were raised in a wet nursery bed and transplanted in experimental plots on 21st March 2020. The crop geometry was 20 x 20 cm. Growth parameters, grain yield, and yield-attributing traits of rice were recorded. The results revealed statistical differences between the treatments in terms of agronomical parameters, yield attributing characters, and grain yield. Results indicate the recommended dose of N application at 3 splits i.e., ¼ at basal+ ½ at 20DAT+ ¼ at 45 DAT contributes to the higher plant height (104.79 cm), the number of tillers (9.88), grain yield (4.9 Mt ha-1) and straw yield (7.44 Mt ha-1). The highest LAI (2.84), flag leaf length (31.063 cm), and effective tillers/m2 (245.41) were obtained in nitrogen application using LCC. Moreover, the recommended dose of N at 3 splits, ¼ at basal + ½ at 20 DAT + ¼ at 45 DAT, and nitrogen application using LCC showed almost similar performance in most of the parameters. Among the varieties, Hardinath 3 produced the highest plant height (100.86 cm), Flag leaf length (29.509 cm), and 1000 grain weight (29.059 gm) as compared to Chaite 5 (94.613 cm), (26.355 cm) and (24.199 g) respectively. Also, there was a positive correlation between the grain yield and effective tillers per m2 (r =0.972), grain yield and filled grains per panicle (r =0.405), and grain yield and LAI (r =0.716). Hence, the recommended dose of nitrogen application at 3 splits i.e., ¼ at basal+ ½ at 20 DAT+ ¼ at 45 DAT, and nitrogen application using LCC were found to improve yield and yield attributes of spring rice.
Yield and Nitrogen Uptake of Wheat as Influenced by Nitrogen, Vermicompost and Biofertilizer Application at Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal
High cost, unavailability, and imbalance use of chemical fertilizers and environmental degradation are challenging sustainability of wheat production in Nepal. Integration of vermicompost, biofertilizer (Azotobacter chrococcom) and chemical fertilizer can improve the situation. A field experiment was conducted to assess the combined application of vermicompost, chemical fertilizer and biofertilizer on the growth, yield, and nitrogen uptake of wheat at Rampur Chitwan from November 2021 to April 2022. The experiment was laid out in a strip-split plot design with five N levels as horizontal factors (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of recommended dose), two vermicompost levels (0 and 5 t ha-1) as the vertical factor, and two biofertilizer levels (with and without application) as the sub-plot factor with three replications. Data on growth, yield attributes and yield of wheat, nitrogen uptake were collected, analyzed and presented. The research result revealed a significant influence of biofertilizer and nitrogen levels on grain yield of wheat. Full dose of nitrogen resulted a significantly higher grain yield (4441.71 kg ha-1) than other nitrogen levels (0, 25, 50, 75 % of recommended dose with grain yield 2792.11, 2982.20, 3771.17. 4231.63 kg ha-1 respectively). Biofertilizer application had significantly higher grain yield (3726.76 kg ha-1) compared with no biofertilizer application (3560 kg ha-1). There was significant interactions between biofertilizer application and nitrogen levels on number of grains per spike and sterility percent of wheat. The number of grain per spike was highest with 100% recommended N with biofertilizer application (47.52 grains/spike) followed by 75 % recommended N with biofertilizer application (46.53 grains/spike). The sterility % was lowest (6.47 %) with 100 % N with biofertilizer application followed by 75 % N with biofertilizer application (6.72 %). Total nitrogen uptake was significantly higher (119.04 kg ha-1) for full dose of nitrogen as compared with lower nitrogen levels (0, 25. 50, 75 % recommended N levels). Biofertilizer application also resulted in significantly higher nitrogen uptake (89.89 kg ha-1) as compared with no Biofertilizer application (79.89 kg ha-1). Integration of biofertilizer, with chemical fertilizer 75 - 100 % recommended N level could increase the growth, yield, and nitrogen uptake of wheat in Chitwan.
Performance of Black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) under Different Levels of Phosphorus at Bardiya, Nepal
A field experiment was conducted during the spring season of 2023 in Badhaiyatal Rural Municipality-7, Bardiya district to evaluate the performance of black gram at various levels of phosphorus. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) consisting of four treatments and five replications were used for the study. The treatments consisted of different levels of phosphorous viz. 0 Kg ha-1 (control), 20 Kg ha-1, 40 Kg ha-1 and 60 Kg ha-1. Black gram var. BLG 0093-1 was sown at spacing of 40 cm x 5 cm in the plots sized 8 m2. All the growth parameters and yield obtained from each treatment were compared at 5% level of significance. The results showed significantly greater number of branches (13.84), flower buds (11.33), root length (16.27 cm) and secondary roots (16.05) at 60 Kg phosphorus per ha followed by 40 Kg ha-1. However, plant height, pods per plant, seeds per pod, weight of pods per plant, biomass and grain yield showed non-significant results at similar levels of phosphorus (60 Kg ha-1). Though non-significant, higher number of fruiting branch, number of nodules, effective nodules, 1000 grain weight and harvest index were observed at 40 Kg ha-1 phosphorus. The findings suggested a gradual increase in the yield with increasing levels of phosphorus with the highest gross return from 60 Kg ha-1 phosphorus. However, since the variation in grain yield among the treatments was not significant, the cost involved with the 60 Kg ha-1 was greater as compared to 40 Kg ha-1 phosphorus, greater benefit was observed with the latter. So, on grounds of greater net return and better BC ratio, 40 Kg ha-1 phosphorus seems to be more profitable for the farmers.
Prevalence and Distribution of Rice Root Knot Nematode in Rice Nurseries in Chitwan and Lamjung Districts of Nepal
To determine the natural infection of the rice root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne graminicola Golden & Brichfield) in rice nurseries, a survey was carried out in Chitwan and Lamjung in June and July of 2022. Rice nurseries were randomly selected based on geographical location, agro-ecological region, land type, cropping practice, and soil type. Forty rice nurseries were surveyed i.e. twenty from each district and 100 seedlings from each nursery as the sample for the study using the simple random method of sampling were evaluated. Field survey revealed that M. graminicola was widely distributed in most rice growing areas of Chitwan and Lamjung districts. Most of the rice nurseries in Lamjung district were found to be infested with M. graminicola as compared to that of the Chitwan district. Disease severity was reported up to 23.26% in Lamjung and 20.2% in Chitwan district. Additionally, the study showed that dry bed conditions were more likely to be affected by rice root-knot disease than wet bed conditions. The majority of farmers planted seedlings on upland (dry) soil, where second-stage juvenile (J2) populations and rice root-knot disease were more common. Most farmers (87.5%) have limited knowledge about rice root knot nematodes and their control methods. This suggested a significant loss in rice output and a high danger of nematode multiplication. This information will provide knowledge about the prevalence of nematode and enabling rice growers in this region to design and implement an appropriate control strategy for managing M. graminicola.
Effect of Different Organic Fertilizers and NPK on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris)
The experiment was conducted during the month of November, 2022-March, 2023 in Agronomy Farm, Department of Agriculture, Far Western University, Tikapur, Kailali, Nepal to evaluate the combine effects of different organic fertilizers and NPK on growth and yield attributes of lentils. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four treatments and five replications. The treatments used were: Farm yard manure @ 6 t ha-1 (T1), vermicompost @ 1 t ha-1 (T2), panchagavya @ 3% solution (T3) and control (T4). The recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (20:20:20 kg NPK ha-1) were used as a basal dose in all the treatments. It was observed that the application of FYM proved to be significantly superior in terms of plant height, branch number, first flat pod observation, number of pods/plant (107.18), number of filled pods/plant (101.30), total biomass/plant (79.0 g), number of seeds/pod (1.87) and grain yield/ha (1558 kg). The effects remain similar and non-significant in terms of parameters like germination percentage and other growth stages i.e., branching, flowering, number of unfilled pods/plant, pod weight/plant, grain weight/plant, 1000 grain weight, stover yield and harvest index. FYM also recorded the highest gross return (Rs. 155,800) and net return (Rs. 103,183.33) with a slightly lower BC ratio (2.96) compared to control (3.12). In conclusion, FYM proved to be the best option for achieving the highest grain yield and overall economic returns while control remained the most economical choice based on the benefit-cost ratio.
Response of Nepalese Rice Landraces to Brown Spot [Bipolaris oryzae (Breda de Haan) Shoemaker] at Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal
Brown spot disease, caused by the fungus Bipolaris oryzae, is a common foliar affliction in rice plants, impacting agricultural yields worldwide. A field experiment was conducted to identify brown spot resistant landraces at Rampur, Chitwan during June to November, 2018. A set of 54 rice genotypes comprising of 52 landraces and two checks (resistant and susceptible) were evaluated for resistance to the disease under field condition in alpha lattice design with three replicates. Area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) values varied significantly among the genotypes. Of the tested 54 genotypes, nine genotypes were found moderately resistant, 38 genotypes susceptible and seven genotypes were found highly susceptible. The maximum incidence (64.9%) of pathogen was found in seed of Hodbachhi followed by Sankharika (64.15%). The minimum average incidence of pathogen was found in check Sabitri (4.05%), which was as par with other 28 genotypes. The yield attributing characters were highly significant among the genotypes. Highest grain yield (1.55 t ha-1) was obtained from Ghusara (1.51 t ha-1) followed by Lalbachhi. Lowest grain yield was obtained from Ghuyeni Saro (0.21 t ha-1) followed by Jaguli Mansuli (0.25 t ha-1). All the yield and yield attributing characters were negatively correlated with AUDPC. Seed-borne infection after harvest was highly significant among the genotypes. The results revealed that among the screened genotypes most of the landraces of rice are susceptible to brown spot.
Superior Buckwheat Genotypes for the River-Basin Areas of Sudurpaschim Province
Buckwheat is considered one of the climates smart crops, and it can play a significant role in food security in Nepal's hills and mountainous regions. Field experiments were conducted to identify suitable buckwheat genotypes for general cultivation in the mid-hills of far-western Nepal. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications in both years. The experiments were conducted in the research field of the Directorate of Agricultural Research, Sudurpaschim Province, Bhagetada, Doti, during the two consecutive winters of 2019 and 2020. Eleven elite buckwheat genotypes received from the Hill Crops Research Program, Kabre, Dolakha, Nepal, were evaluated. The only released variety of sweet-type buckwheat, Mithe Fapar-1, was used as a standard check. There was a significant difference among the genotypes in both years. In 2019, genotypes Acc#5670 (1390 kg ha-1), standard check - Mithe Fapar-1 (1250 kg ha-1), PL-30 (1240 kg ha-1), KLF-72-22-520 (1199 kg ha-1), and Acc#6529 (1190 kg ha-1) were identified as higher yielder. In 2020, Acc#5670 (1556 kg ha-1), GF-5283 (1,434 kg ha-1), Acc#2234 (1,399 kg ha-1), Acc#2213 (1361 kg ha-1), and Acc#6529 (1312 kg ha-1) were found superior among the tested genotypes. Likewise, combined over 2019 and 2020 data revealed that the genotypes Acc#5670 (1473 kg ha-1), Acc#2234 (1275 kg ha-1), Acc#2213 (1261 kg ha-1), Acc#6529 (1251 kg ha-1), and the genotype GF-5283 (1247 kg ha-1) were found, high yielder. Genotypes found superior in these field experiments are valuable resources for the buckwheat breeding program of Nepal (Hill Crops Research Program) and especially for the mid-hills of Sudurpaschim Province. The superior genotypes can further be evaluated to develop location-specific genotypes for the regions.
Crop Establishment Methods Affect Plant Stand and Yield of Lentil under Rice-lentil Cropping at Khumaltar Condition
Lentil variety Maheswor Bharati was evaluated in three establishment methods: relay, conventional tillage after rice harvest (post-rice CT), seeding by seed drill where seeds covered by minimum soil disturbance in single pass, and two rice residue heights: residue removed i.e., straw cut at 5 cm height and 30 cm residue retained at Agronomy Farm, Khumaltar from 2016/17 to 2018/19. Experiments were conducted in Randomized Complete Block design with four replications. Seeds broadcasted on standing rice during 2-16 November for relay crop; and 21-29 November for post-rice CT. Seed rates were 40 kg ha-1 for machine and manual line sowing and 50 kg ha-1 for broadcasting. Rice was harvested at 14-18 days after lentil relay. Fertilizers were applied based on soil fertility of experimental field. Significant variation was observed in plant stand, crop duration, growth and yield parameters among establishment methods; and year to year variation was also significant except for plant stand. Plant stand was greater (58-62 m-2) in machine sowing with or without residue retention and manual line sowing in post-rice CT, while low (32-40 m-2) in broadcasting methods either as relay or post-rice CT. Crop grew tall in relay with residue retained and machine sowing (41 cm) as compared to broadcasting in post-rice CT (33 cm). Grain yield was 46-115% and 24-83% higher in seeding by machine as compared to relay sown without residue (492 kg ha-1) and broadcasting in post-rice CT (578 kg ha-1), respectively.
Improved Agronomic Practices on Enhancement of Quality Forage Production for Livestock Farming
The lack of nutrient-rich fodder and forage is one of the problems of livestock farming. Adequate tillage operations, timely and suitable water management, weed management, insect pests and disease management, fertilizer management, seeding at the proper time and seed rate, timely harvesting, and other agronomic techniques can all help to increase the nutritional content and yield of fodder and forage crops. A number of research and review papers have been systematically reviewed in this study. The use of tillage practices such as primary, secondary, conventional, and deep tillage enhances dry matter and yield of green fodder as compared to zero tillage. The organic matter (OM) content and dry matter (DM) of fodder crops are increased by regular and appropriate irrigation. The DMD (dry matter digestibility) and CP (crude protein) contents of early harvested forages are higher than those of late harvested forages. The application of nitrogen promotes crop development and growth, increasing the production of green fodder and improving its quality. Intercropping is essential for increasing the yield of fodder crops. Compared to sole cropping of maize and cowpea, the yield is found higher in intercropping of maize + cowpea. The production and quality of fodder are decreased by late seeding. The management of insect pests and diseases enhances the production and quality of fodder and forage. Thus, we draw the conclusion that fodder and forage crops production and their quality parameters are greatly influenced by agronomic practices.
Crop Biofortification of Finger Millet Through Agronomic Approaches to Enhance Bioactive Compounds for Human Health and Nutrition
Finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.) is a gluten-free cereal crop widely grown in Africa and Asia, recognized for its rich bioactive compounds and health benefits. It contains high levels of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins with potent antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. These compounds also have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, finger millet is a valuable source of essential minerals such as iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium, crucial for bone health, cognitive function, and body immune. Its high dietary fiber content aids gastrointestinal health, regulates blood sugar and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and heart disease. Finger millet is particularly high in essential amino acids, making it an excellent protein choice for vegetarians. Agronomic biofortification, which involves adding zinc, calcium, and iron to the soil and leaves of plants can increase the mineral content of the grain. This review investigates different approaches of agronomic biofortification of finger millet and explore the health and nutritional benefits of bioactive components with a focus on their role as a functional diet in the prevention and management of chronic diseases.