KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal - SEPTEMBER 2020 - Farm ...
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 1
Inside
SEPTEMBER 2020 Volume - 8 Issue - 3
KERALA KARSHAKAN
English journal
Mail: editorejournalkkfib@gmail.com Log on to http://www.fibkerala.gov.in
Phone: 0471-2314358
The First English farm journal from the house of Kerala Karshakan
Farm INFORMATION BUREAU 04 Ocimum sp.- A traditional first aid kit
MEMBERS, ADVISORY COMMITTEE
AKHIL RAJ B.
Chairman
Ishita Roy ias
Agricultural Production Commissioner, 08 Bruchid Management in Legumes
Principal Secretary (Agriculture)
Sandip Kumar Panigrahi1, Kavita Gupta2, Kuldeep Tripathi2*
MEmbers
Dr. K. Vasuki IAS
Director of Agriculture 11 ECOFRIENDLY APPROACHES IN PLANT DISEASE
Department of Agriculture & Development MANAGEMENT
Dr. Rathan U. Kelkar IAS Mrs.Resmi A.R1, Dr.AtulJayapal2, Dr. Lovely B.3, Dr.Lekshmy S.L.4
Special Secertary (Agriculture)
Department of Agriculture & Development
15 JOB’S TEARS; CROP FOR A HEALTHY FUTURE
U.V. Jose IAS
Director (I&PRD) Dr. Pavankumar Goudar 1*, Navya Vishweshwar Bhat 2,
Tripthi Kumari 3
Dr. C. MADHU
Director (Animal Husbandry) 19 GROWING AND MAINTAINING PHALAENOPSIS ORCHIDS
Roshin Mariam George, Dr. Beena Thomas
Mini Raveendradas
Director i/c (Dairy Department)
Station Director, All India Radio
22 Protected Cultivation: High Yielding Parthenocarpic
Cucumber Hybrid
Director
Doordarshan, Thiruvananthapuram AmalPremachandran, Dr.MeeraManjusha A. V,
Dr.AnjuPadmanabhan
P.V. Manoj
Sayujyam, Manakkad P.O., Thiruvananthapuram
Sandhya R.
Adarsham, Anandeswaram, Chempazanthy
P.O., Thiruvananthapuram
C.R. Mahesh
Kailas Nagar, Kizhakkekkara, Kottarakkara
22
Renjan S. Karippai
Mission Director, State Horticulture Mission
Kerala
T.K. Bhaskara Panikkar
Renfru Cottage, USRA-72, Udarasiromani Road
Vellayambalam, Thiruvananthapuram -10
Dr. Jalaja S. Menon
Assi. Prof. College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara
Thrissur
Dr. P. Indira Devi
Prof. & Head, Centre for Enviornmentel
Economics,
College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur
ATTENTION AUTHORS
C.D. Suneesh
Chittilappally House, Thrikkaipatta P.O.,
Wayanad
Dr.Mohan P.V
Karuna, Near Kannur Spinning Mill
Kakkad P.O., Kannur - 670005
Articles send for Kerala Karshakan E-journal should be
Suresh Muthukulam certified by head of the institution concerned stating
Sarayoo, Bapuji Nagar
Pongumoodu, Medical College P.O that the article is original and has not been published
Trivandrum - 695011
anywhere. Reference should also be included wherever
2 KERALA KARSHAKAN
CONVENOR
Principal
SEPTEMBERInformation Officer
2020
e-journal
relevant.
32
24 Plant Based Diet: A Way to Healthier Life
Pradeepika C1,2, Selvakumar R3, Krishnakumar T1, Sirisha T1, Chief Editor
Suresh Kumar J1, More S1 Saly Joseph
32 Quality breeding in bulbous vegetables Editor
Ramavath Ramesh Babu , Basavaraj T
1 2 Sreekala S
Asst. Editor
35 Can zero budget natural farming double the farmer’s A J Al Unais
income?
Dr.Vijayakumar S1, Dr.Gobinath R2, Dr. Sivashankari3, Dr. A K Nayak4, Editorial Assistant
Dr. Aravindan S5 Anoop R J
40 Scientific Cultivation of Aonla Design & Layout
A.K. Singh, Sanjay Singh, P. L. Saroj V. Rajesh
Articles/ Features appearing in this e-journal are either commissioned or assigned neverthless, other articles of
farm relevance are also welcome. A maximum of 750 wordage is appreciated. Such items should be addressed to
The Editor, Kerala Karshakan e-journal, Farm Information Bureau, Kowdiar PO, Thiruvananthapuram, Pin: 695003
These may also be mailed to editorejournalkkfib@gmail.com in word format. Responses can be also sent to this
mail. Authors are requested to provide the following details along with the articles, for quick processing of the
remuneration, after the articles are published: Account Number, Name of Bank, Branch (Place), IFSC Code.
VIEWS expressed in the articles published in KeralaKarshakan e-journal are not, necessarily those ofKERALA
Enquiries : 0471 2314358
KARSHAKAN e-journal
the Government.
SEPTEMBER 2020 3
AKHIL RAJ B. C.
M.Sc. Hort. Scholar
Dept. of Plantation
crops and Spices
College of Agriculture
Vellayani
Ocimum sp
A traditional first aid kit
4 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journal
T
ransition in the life style is existing in Africa. More than kept with stored food materials
resulted in life style 150 Ocimum species are for protecting from bad effects
disorders like diabetis, reported in this genus and it of eclipse. Tulsi leaves are
o b e s i t y, d e m e n t i a , belongs to the family Lamiaceae. kept overnight in copper pot
depression etc. In the midst of Sacred basil / holy basil, Sweet containing water and there exists
this COVID-19 pandemic we are basil, Camphor basil, Thai a practice of having it in the
recollecting and experimenting basil etc. are the well-known morning for improving general
our traditional knowledge for species (See the table below). health and vitality. It is reported
sustaining the life. Ayurvedic Traditional uses, nutritional and that black pepper and ginger
home remedies functioning pharmaceutical potential of powder add with tulsi leaves in
as immune boosters, helping Sacred basil is discussed in this the ratio 2:2:4 is effective for
in preventing or managing article. relieving cold, cough, sneezing,
infections especially bronchial Traditional and folkloric headache, fever etc. In addition,
infections are gaining rebirth. uses tulsi leaf paste prepared using
Tulsi admired as the ‘Golden Traditional Kerala houses curd with added honey and
remedy of Ayurveda’ and “The and temples are featured swallowed before food prevent
Queen of Herbs”is an important with sacred basil raised in a the risk of cancer as well as
candidate for achieving this specialized imposing structure improves memory (Khosla M.
objective. called thulasithara. Women and K., 1995).
Tulsi is considered as children managed the plant with Nutritional value
a sacred plant infused with great endearment. They used Holy basil (O. tenuiflorum)
healing power (Thakur et al., to light lamp (Diya) in every is one of a the satisfactory
2017). In ancient literature dawn and dusk burn inscents sources of nutrients, minerals
holy basil (Krishna tulsi) means circumambulate by chanting and vitamins essential for human
“an incomparable one”. The prayer, sing devotional song, health. Ocimum plants are store
entire plant including its leaves, celebrate thiruvathira festival etc. house of vitamins viz., Vitamin A,
stem, flowers, roots and seeds since it is considered as praise K, E and C. Ocimum is peculiar
have nutritional and medicinal worthy for the Almighty God in having low calories, moderate
potential. (Khosla M. K., 1995). protein and no cholesterol. It
Variability in Ocimum Tulsi plant is regarded as contains 5275 mg vitamin A
Ocimum is globally so powerful since, during solar which is as high as 175% of
distributed and its wide variability or lunar eclipse; its leaves are recommended daily allowance.
Sl. No. Common Name Scientific Name Chemical compound
1 Krishna tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum var. Methyl euginol (70%)
(Sacred basil / Holy Basil) Krishna tulsi
2 Rama tulsi Ocimum tenuiflorum var. Euginol (33.8%)
(Sacred basil / Holy Basil) Ram tulsi
3 Sweet basil Ocimum basilicum Methyl chavicol (70-75%)
4 Camphor basil Ocimum kilimandscharicum Camphor (28.8%)
5 Thai basil Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora Linalool (68%)
6 American basil Ocimum americanum Terpinen-4-ol (43.21%)
7 African basil / Clove basil / Ocimum gratissimum Euginol (81.8%)
Tree basil
8 Bush/ Greek basil Ocimum minimum Geranyl Acetate (69.48%)
9 Purple basil Ocimum basilicum pourpre Methyl chavicol (57.3%)
10 Peruvian basil Ocimum mirranthum Euginol (84-97%)
11 Vietnamese basil Ocimum cinnamon Methyl cinnamet, Linalool
12 Lemon basil Ocimum citriodoram Nerol (23%), Citral (20.7%)
13 Pepper basil Ocimum carnosum Linalool (79%)
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 5
Principle Nutrient Value Percentage of RDA indigestion etc.
Energy 23 Kcal 1% 2. Insufflations of dried and
Carbohydrates 2.65 g 2% powdered tulsi leaves can control
Protein 3.15 g 6% the ozaena (offensive discharge
Total Fat 0.64 g 2% from the nose). Moreover, it
Cholesterol 0 mg 0% can be applied as a nasal spray
Dietary Fibre 1.60 g 4% to soothe nasal congestion and
Vitamins phlegm.
Folates 68 µg 17% 3. Tender tulsi leaves crushed by
Niacin 0.902 mg 6% adding black pepper berries can
Pantothenic acid 0.209 mg 4% be taken daily in empty stomach
Pyridoxine 0.155 mg 12% for strengthening the heart.
Riboflavin 0.076 mg 6% 4. Juice prepared from leaves,
Thiamin 0.034 mg 2.5% flowering tops and slender roots
Vitamin A 5275 IU 175% is a antidote against insect stings
Vitamin C 18 mg 30% due to bees, worms, leach,
Vitamin E 0.80 mg 5% wasps, mosquitos etc.
Vitamin K 414.8 µg 345% 5. Raw turmeric can be mixed
Electrolytes with tulsi juice and applied on
Sodium 4 mg 0% the affected area can detoxify
Potassium 295 mg 6% spider venom.
Minerals 6. Ringworm rashes and other
Calcium 177 mg 18% skin infections can be cured by
Copper 385 mg 43% applying leaf juice or paste over
Iron 3.17 mg 40% it. It is applicable for ear-ache
Magnesium 64 mg 16% and other minor infections of ear,
Manganese 1.15 mg 57% eyes and nose.
Zinc 0.81 mg 7% 7. Adding tulsi leaves to yoghurt
Phyto-nutrients and mixing it with honey helps in
Carotene-ß 3142 µg -- improving memory. This mixture
Crypto-xanthin-ß 46 µg -- can be taken regularly to cure
Lutein-zeaxanthin 5650 µg -- diarrhoea and fever too.
8. Oil preparations containing
(Source: USDA National Nutrient data base) tulsi leaves are effective for
reducing joint pain.
It is known to have plant has a strong bitter flavor, 9. Boiled water containing tulsi
antioxidant properties and is used as stomachic, cholagogue, leaves can be rubbed on cheeks
essential for improved vision. ianthelmintic, alexiteric, with a little warmth will relieve
Moreover, it is rich in minerals antipyretic, etc. Tulsi leaves are sore throat.
like potassium, manganese, expectorant, its juice is used in 10. Dried and powdered tulsi
magnesium, calcium, iron and curing bronchitis, throat and chest leaves mixed with mustard oil
zinc. Nutrient content in 100g infection. Hence, it is useful for can be applied on sore tooth or
fresh basil leaves are shown in curing asthma, hiccough, painful using a toothbrush cleanse the
the table above. eyes, purulent discharge from teeth can relieve toothache and
Pharmaceutical potential the ear, leucoderma, strangury, bad breath.
Sacred tulsi is a potential vomiting, halitosis, lumbago 11. Applying tulsi leaves and
phyto-resource having enormous pains, burning sensation during sandalwood paste on the
medicinal properties as it is a urination etc. forehead relieves headache.
good remedy for number of 1. Tulsi leaves decoction added 12. Tulsi leaves and Cyclea
ailments. All parts of tulsi is used in boiled cow’s milk is beneficial peltata (Padakizhangu) root
in one form or the other. The in curing malaria, cold, cough, paste is a good remedy for
6 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journal
of Plantation Crops and Spices,
College of Agriculture, Vellayani,
Kerala Agricultural University
D r. D e e p a S. N a i r,
Assistant Professor (Horticulture)
and head, Dept. of Plantation
Crops and Spices, College of
pimples. Ocimum products are available Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala
13. Adorning women’s hair with in the market for meeting the Agricultural University
tulsi leaves can manage lice day to day requirements like holy References
infestation. Leaves can be put basil essential oil, cough syrup, Khosla, M.K . 1995.
on the pillows and resting over hair oil, shower gel, leaf powder, Sacred tulsi (Ocimum sanctum
it will also give the same benefit. basil extract, capsules, hair l.) In traditional medicine and
14. Apart from being a conditioner etc. In addition Tulsi pharmacology. Ancient
medicine, tulsi juice is also gives a calming and purifying Sci. Life. 15(1): 53-61.
used in gardens for pest control effect to body, mind and soul and Mondal, S., Bijay, R.
and as an excellent mosquito hence used in aromatherapy. Mirdhaand Mahapatra, S.C.
repellent. It possess a scientific Tulsi essential oils could relief 2009. The science behind
evidence exists for its insecticidal anxiety, migraine, headache, sacredness of tulsi (Ocimum
and larvicidal activity against fatigue and insomnia. Tulsi can sanctum Linn.). Indian J. Physiol.
houseiflies, blue bottle flies be measured as a powerful Pharmacol. 5(4): 291–306.
and mosquitoes (Mondal et al., herb used by humans due to Thakur, R. N., Gangwar,
2009). its medicinal potential and can S.S., Sharma,R. and Tilak,
Basil contains remarkably meet almost all emergencies in A. 2017. Indian Traditional
high levels of phyto-constituents day to day life and can act as Shrub Tulsi(ocimum sanctum)
like cryptoxanthin, lutein, natural first aid kit at no expense. Use in Medicine. Imperial j.
zeaxanthin etc. These help in Prepared by Interdisciplinary Res. 3(1) :
acting as free radical scavengers, Akhil Raj. B. C., PG 2454-1362.
prevents ROS (Reactive Oxygen Scholar, Dept of Plantation USDA [United
Species) from causing diseases Crops and Spices, College States Department of
and improves immunity. o f A g r i c u l t u r e , Ve l l a y a n i , Agriculture].2018.USDA home
Ocimum is a repository Kerala Agricultural University. page [online]. Available: https://
of phytochemicals and Ph:8281544280. ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/
nutrients with therapeutic and Dr. Sonia. N. S., Assistant show/02044?format=Full.
nutraceutical benefits. Several Professor (Horticulture), Dept. [April, 2018 ].
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 7
Bruchid
Management in
Legumes
P
ulses are the dried edible green gram, horse gram, red Sandip Kumar
seeds of the legume gram (ENVIS Centre: Kerala). Panigrahi1
plants belonging to family Among various threats to pulses, Kavita Gupta2
Fabaceae. Being a rich Bruchids (Family: Bruchidae) Kuldeep Tripathi2*
ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute,
1
and one of the cheapest source are cosmopolitan pests. They New Delhi 110 012
of protein (25-40%), pulses are cause substantial reduction in
2
ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic
Resources, New Delhi 110 012
attributed as “poor man’s meat”. quantity and quality of stored *Corresponding author:
kuldeep.tripathi@icar.gov.in
Pulses are perfect cocktail of legumes. Losses estimated due
essential amino-acids and to bruchids in various pulses
minerals with high biological range from 30-40% within six
value. Therefore, pulses when months, which can reach upto
supplemented with cereals, form 100% during severe infestation.
a balanced human diet. Kerala Bruchid pests form more than
is home of many leguminous 1700 species belonging to 62
crops like black gram, cowpea, genera worldwide. In India,
8 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journal
Table 1:Major Bruchid species infesting different legumes
Crop Bruchid species
Black gram C. maculatus(F.)
Cowpea C. maculatus(F.), C. chinensis(L.)
Pigeon pea C. maculatus(F.)
Green gram C. maculatus(F.), C. chinensis(L.)
Faba bean Bruchus rufimanusBoh., B. dentipes Baudi, B. atomarius L.
Chickpea C. phaseoliGyllenhal, C. maculatus(F.), Acanthoscelides obtectus(Say)
Common bean Acanthoscelides obtectus(Say), Zabrotes subfasciatusBoh.
Pea B. pisorum(L.)
Lentil C. analis(F.), B. lentisFrolich, B .signaticornisGyllenhal, B. erviFroel
post-harvest damage is mainly pests. Traditional disinfestation maintain the pest population
inflicted by Callosobruchus chemicals include 10% dichloro below the threshold level.
maculatus F., C. chinensis L., C. d i p henyl tr ic hlor o ethane Some natural enemies
analis F. Pulse crops like mung (DDT) and / or 5% benzene for effective bruchid control are:
bean, adzuki bean (red mung hexachloride (BHC) dust@ • Hymenoptera (Dinarmus
bean), cowpea, moth bean and 6-8 oz per 100 cubic feet of spp.) parasitoids for
bambara groundnut are infested storage space. These methods suppressing C. maculatus in
by both C. maculatus & C. are cheapest, reliable and do blackgram
chinensis. Blackgram is infested not need extensive labour. Some • Eupelmus vuilleti used to
by C. maculatus while rice bean limitations include the need for manage C. chinensis in
seems to be unaffected by both long-term and careful planning cowpea
Callosobruchus spp. Bruchid & timing, species specificity. • Some limitations include
resistance has been proved to be 2. Physical Control the requirement of nutrition
controlled by a single dominant This involves treatment of to bio-control agents
gene. In contrast, Somta et al., seeds and insects using physical and timing & release of
(2007) reported that bruchid agents like temperature, heat larval development needs
resistance in the mung bean is and moisture to reduce the consideration.
controlled by a major gene, with development of bruchids to an 4. Phytochemical Control
varying degree of expressivity. acceptable level. Increasing It involves the utilisation
Polygenic inheritance has also grain temperature upto 60◦C for of plants and plant-derived
been reported in rice bean, 10-15 min killed all live stages products exhibiting insecticidal
mung bean, black gram and of bruchids. All live stages of C. and inhibitory activity against
adzuki bean. maculatus in green gram seeds bruchids. Some plants used are:
Management of Bruchids in were found to be highly sensitive neem, castor, clove, mustard,
Leguminous Crops to the temperature of -14±1◦C. mahua, etc. A prominent example
To r e d u c e s t o r a g e Pigeon pea seeds remained is that the use of formulated
losses, bruchid infestation in undamaged by bruchids upon product of neem seed kernel
pulses needs to be controlled. solar heating at 65◦C for one extract (A. indica) and curry leaf
These control measures include week. C. maculatus in cowpea extract (M. koenigii) reduces
broadly two approaches viz. seeds were killed within eight C. maculatus population in
Conventional approach and days of irradiation with 0.25 KGy cowpea.These phytochemicals
Biotechnological approach. gamma rays. Movement of adult act slowly, are easily degradable
Conventional Approach pulse beetles can be prevented and can affect seed germination.
1.Cultural Control by placing 7-10 cm dry sand 5. Chemical Control
This involves all those layer on top of grain mass, thus It uses chemical
practices which make host reducing intergranular space. pesticides like organochlorine,
environment unattractive 3. Biological Control organophosphate, carbamates,
and unfavourable for the This involves the use of pyrethrins in field and storage for
survival, dispersal, growth and bio-control agents like predators, complete insect mortality.
reproduction of the bruchid parasitoids, pathogens to Some glaring examples
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 9
TABLE 2: Sources of bruchid resistance in Crop Wild Relatives (CWRs)
Genus Resistance source Distribution
Vigna V. mungovarsylvestris, V. radiata India, Bangladesh,Pakistan,
varsublobata,V. vexillata west Myanmar
Cajanus C. scarabaeoides, C. cajanifolius, Assam, Kerala, Odisha,
C. platycarpus Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra
Lens L. orientalis, L. lamottei, L. nigricans West and Central Asia
Pisum P. fulvum Maryland (USA)
Dolichos D. trilobus Kerala , Maharashtra
Phaseolus P. acutifolius Central America and Southwest N.
America
Cicer C. echinospermum, C. bijugum, Southeast Turkey to Iraq
C. reticulatum
include: proteins at the target site, which novel technologies like ionising
• Reduction in the emergence may be harmful to non-target radiation, radiofrequency and
of C. maculatus in cowpea organisms, remains a significant microwaves are used to disinfest
seeds by Spinosad drawback. pulses. Hence saving pulses from
application. 2. Marker-Assisted Breeding bruchid attack can undoubtedly
• Effective control of C. Approach improve the nutritional security.
chinensis in chickpea by new This requires
insecticides like Lufenuron identification of host resistant References
and Emamectin benzoate @ genotypes, developing genetic 1.Mishra SK, Macedo
10-20 g/mu resources and mapping of both MLR, Panda SK and Panigrahi
• Chemical control measures simple inherited traits (SITLs) J (2018)Bruchid pest
are limited by toxic residues, and quantitative trait (QTLs) management in pulses: past
pesticide resistance and conferring bruchid resistance in practices, present status and
health and environment several pulse crops. use of modern breeding tools
hazards. Future Prospects for the development of resistant
Biotechnological Research will lead to varieties. Annals of Applied
Approaches a package of integrated pest Biology172(1): 1-16
Biotechnology involves management (IPM) for bruchid 2. Srinives P, Somta P
the use of transgenic introgression management to be developed and Somta C (2011) Genetics
and DNA marker-assisted and promoted. This involves on- and Breeding of Resistance to
breeding to reduce yield loss farm trials with farmer assessment Bruchids (Callosobruchus spp.)
and augment net production. and seed production & delivery in Vigna Crop: A Review. NU
1. Transgenic Approach of new bruchid resistant lines and Science Journal4(1): 01-17.
Biochemical studies have varieties to farmers. 3. Tripathi K, Gore PG,
confirmed that lectins found H o s t- p l a n t- r e s i s t a n t Singh M, Pamarthi RK, Mehra
in pulse seeds are involved cultivars will form the backbone R and Gayacharan C (2020)
in plant defence mechanisms of IPM strategy. Development Legume Genetic Resources:
against bruchids and α-amylase of bruchid resistant varieties Status and Opportunities for
& protease inhibitor retard and bio-pesticides will reduce Sustainability, Legume Crops,
insect growth and development. the use of chemical pesticides IntechOpen.
Bruchid-resistant genotypes have and increase the activity of 4. Somta P, Ammaranan
been developed by transgenesis natural bio-control agents. C, Ooi PAC and Srinives P (2007)
of α-amylase inhibitor(α AI- Fumigation with essential oils Inheritance of seed resistance to
1) gene from common bean of many aromatic plants like bruchids in cultivated mungbean
(P. vulgaris) in adzuki bean. eucalyptus, mint etc. is now being (Vignaradiata, L. Wilczek),
The expression of insecticidal experimented. Besides, various Euphytica155(1-2): 47-55.
10 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalECOFRIENDLY
APPROACHES IN
PLANT DISEASE
MANAGEMENT
P
lant diseases are major methods of disease control is Mrs.Resmi A.R1
yield limiting factor in gaining momentum. Thus, there Dr.AtulJayapal2
agricultural production. is evidence of a renewed and Dr. Lovely B.3
Plant diseases should increased interest in biological Dr.Lekshmy S.L.4
be controlled to maintain the control of plant pathogens. 1
Assistant Professor (Plant Pathology),
ORARS Kayamkulam,
quality and quantity of food. Biological control is Kerala Agricultural University
2
Assistant Professor (Agronomy), ORARS
Different approaches may be the control of disease by the Kayamkulam, Kerala Agricultural University
used to prevent or manage application of biological agents 3
Assistant Professor (Plant breeding and
Genetics), ORARS Kayamkulam, Kerala
plant diseases. Modern farming to a host animal or plant that Agricultural University
4
Assistant Professor (Horticulture),
and agricultural practices prevents the development of ORARS Kayamkulam,
Kerala Agricultural University.
often rely heavily on the use disease by a pathogen. It is the
of pesticides for plant disease reduction of inoculum density
and pest control. Excessive use or disease producing activities
and misuse of agrochemicals of a pathogen or a parasite
led to environmental pollution in its active or dormant state,
and many health hazards. The by one or more organisms
control of diseases in crops is still accomplished naturally or
largely dominated by the use of through manipulation of the
fungicides, but with the increasing environment, host or antagonist
incidence of fungicide resistance, or by mass introduction of one or
plus mounting concern for the more antagonists. With regard
environment resulting from to plant diseases the bio-control
excessive agrochemical use, the agents are usually bacterial or
search for alternative, reliable fungal strains isolated from the
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 11Pseudomonas fluorescensTrichoderma spp.
Pseudomonas fluorescens Trichoderma spp.
endosphere or rhizosphere. • Bio - control agents not fungal genera have been used
Advantages of biological only control the disease extensively for the control of
control but also enhance the root plant pathogens. Various non-
• Biological control is less and plant growth by way of pathogenic fungal strains of
costly and cheaper than any encouraging the beneficial Rhizoctonia, Phialophora,
other methods. soil microflora. Fusarium and Trichoderma, as
• They protect the plant • They increases the crop yield well as mycorrhizal fungi, have
throughout the crop period • They are easy to manufacture. been used to reduce damage
• They are very effective against • They are harmless to human caused by related strains or other
specific pathogens. beings and animals. pathogenic fungi. Pseudomonas
• They do not cause toxicity to Disadvantages of biological fluorescence and Trichoderma
plants. control spp. are the most commonly
• Their application is safer to • Can sometimes fail in its used bio-control agents in plant
the environment and to the specificity disease management.
person who applies them. • It’s a slow process Pseudomonas fluorescence
• They are easy to handle and • Expensive at startup P s e u d o m o n a s
apply to the target. • Doesn’t completely destroy a fluorescence known as the
• They multiply easily in the soil pest/pathogen. wonder bacteria is a group of
and leave no residual toxicity. Many bacterial and bacteria very effective against
12 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalfungal pathogens like Pythium, in a shaded place for 15 -20 mainly asexual fungi that are
Fu s a r i u m , P h y t o p h t h o r a , minutes and sow the seeds. present in all types of agricultural
Rhizoctonia and Colletotrichum For seed treatment in paddy, soils and also in decaying wood.
and bacterial pathogens like Pseudomonas fluorescence can The antagonistic activity of
Ralstonia and Xanthomonas. be suspended at the rate of 10 Trichoderma species showed
Along with disease management g per kg seed in the water used that it is parasitic on many soil-
the bacteria increase the for sprouting. borne and foliage pathogens.
resistance and growth rate Seedling rootdip The fungus is also a decomposer
of plants. They are available Seedlings/cuttings are of cellulosic waste materials.
in the market in the powder treated with Pseudomonas culture Recent discoveries show that
form (talc based formulation). by dipping the root or tip of the fungi not only act as bio-
Two isolates of Pseudomonas cutting in slurry of Pseudomonas control agent, but also stimulate
fluorescence (P1and P14) have (250g in 750ml of water for 20 plant resistance, plant growth
been developed by Kerala minutes). This help in the control and development resulting in
Agricultural University for the of fungal and bacterial diseases. an increase in crop production.
disease management and growth For transplanted crop, dip the The bio-control activity involving
promotion of crop plants. This roots in the Pseudomonas culture mycoparasitism, antibiosis and
is found highly effective for the liquid (250g in 750ml of water competition for nutrients, also
management of blast, sheath for 20 minutes) at the time of induces defence responses or
blight, sheath rot and bacterial transplanting and one spray may systemic resistance responses
leaf blight in rice, quick wilt and be given @ 20g/litre at 30th day in plants. Trichoderma spp.
pollu disease of pepper, bacterial after transplanting. are very effective against many
leaf spot and Phytophthora Soil application/drenching soil borne diseases like foot
infestation in betel vine, bacterial For managing foot rot in rot/quick wilt of pepper, rot of
wilt of solanaceous vegetables, black pepper nursery, drenching ginger and cardamom etc. They
Colletotrichum infestation in the nursery plants with 1-2% are available in the market in
vanilla, rhizome rot, soft rot Pseudomonas fluorescence the powder form (talc based
and bacterial blight in ginger, immediately after planting formulation).
bacterial blight in anthurium, fruit followed by one or two sprays Method of application
rot in cardamom and different depending on the extent of For controlling fungal
fungal diseases in vegetables disease. For managing foot rot of diseases, add enriched cow
and ornamentals. pepper in the main field, drench dung in potting mixture and
Methods for application of the base of the vine and spray nursery. For enriching cow dung,
Pseudomonas fluorescence the plant with Pseudomonas mix cowdung (90kg), neemcake
Seed treatment, seedling fluorescence @ 10g/litre at the (10kg) and Trichoderma culture
root dip, soil application and onset of monsoon. A second (1kg) spray water and heap it
foliar application are the methods spray may be given, if necessary in a shaded place and cover
for application of Pseudomonas during mid-monsoon period. it with wet gunny bags for a
fluorescence. Foliar application week. After one week again
Seed treatment For controlling foliar mix the mixture, sprinkle water
Cowpea seeds, paddy diseases like leaf spot of and cover it with wet gunny
seeds and rhizome of banana amaranthus, bhindi, cucumber, bags for another one week.
are treated with Pseudomonas anthracnose of cowpea and This mixture can be used for
fluorescence before sowing. most of the fungal diseases application in soil also. In black
Take seeds in a clean vessel in vegetables, spraying with pepper,Trichoderma enriched
and spray small amount of Pseudomonas fluorescence at cowdung can be applied @
water over the seeds. Add the rate of 2% is effective. 500g/vine for controlling quick
Pseudomonas fluorescence at Trichoderma spp wilt.Trichoderma spp. is effective
the rate of 10 g per kg seed and Trichoderma spp. also against wilt and rot diseases
mix well with the seeds. Keep it known as doctor fungus,are in betel vine and vegetables.
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 13Prophylatic application of For all crops, the time and 5. For controlling soil
Trichoderma spp. is very effective the frequency of application borne diseases, soil application
in controlling sheath blight of of biocontrol agents may vary of biocontrol agents are more
rice. For this seed treatment depending on the incidence and effective. Increase in agricultural
with Trichodermaspp.@ 10g severity of disease. production has several new
per kg seed, soil application Check list for application challenges, making further
of Trichoderma spp. @ 2.5kg of bio-control agents in growth possible only if these
per hectare at one week disease management challenges are met appropriately
after transplanting and foliar 1. Chemical fertilizers and timely.
application of Trichoderma spp. and plant protection chemicals Increase in crop
@ 10 g per litre, one month after should not be used along with production from the modern
transplanting can be done. bio-controlagents farming techniques is reaching
A combined application 2. Bio-control agents a plateau in most of the
o f Tr i c h o d e r m a s p p . a n d should be used only after 15 countries including India and
Pseudomonas fluorescence may days of application of pesticides the environmental problems
be resorted to at the time of 3. During application of due to excessive use of chemical
planting in the nursery and/ bio-control agents there should fertilizers and pesticides is
or main field for the control of be enough moisture in the soil becoming a matter of concern.
diseases of pepper, cardamom 4. Bio-control agents So, the biological control can be
and ginger. The application should be applied when alternate system, which may play
may be repeated based on the temperature is low especially an important role in achieving
intensity of disease incidence. early morning or in the evening. the goal of agriculture.
14 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalJOB’S TEARS
Dr. Pavankumar Goudar1*
Navya Vishweshwar Bhat2
Tripthi Kumari3
Assistant Professor, Department of Agronomy,
1.
COA, Pasighat, 791102, CAU, Imphal, India.
2.
Department of Fruit Science and Horticulture
Technology, OUAT, Bhubaneswar, 751003, India.
CROP FOR A
3.
B.Sc. (Horticulture), CHF, Pasighat, 791102,
CAU, Imphal, India.
(Corresponding Author: Pavankumar Goudar *
Email- pavankg77@gmail.com)
HEALTHY FUTURE
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 15Introduction purposes. The seed consists 0.3-8.4 g fibre, 0.7-2.6 g ash,
The ever increasing of four parts from outside to 22-26 mg Ca, 425-440 mg P,
population and limited inside - the hull, testa, bran and 4-6 mg Fe.
agricultural land is one of major endosperm. Medicinal use
problem that is being faced all Structure of Job’s tears bead The Job’s tears seed is
over the world. In addition, to this The actual bead like traditionally used as a diuretic,
malnutrition and susceptibility to structure resembling a seed is digestive tonic, analgesic,
various diseases is faced by every not a seed at all. It is a very anti-spasmodic and anti-
individual. So a diet which not hard, hollow structure (called an inflammatory agent in many
only provides adequate energy involucre) containing a minute countries. It has been reported to
but also helps in preventing fertile female flower and two have anti-cancer, hypolipidemic,
and curing disease is the need sterile flowers. Pollen-bearing hypoglycemic, antioxidant, anti-
of the hour. Job’s tears is one male flowers are produced on inflammatory and anti-allergic
such fascinating crop which a slender stalk that extends properties. The fruits are used
supplements us with all the out of the bead through a tiny in folk remedies for abdominal
essential component of diet pore. Two feathery stigmas from tumours, oesophageal,
along with helping us to prevent the fertile female flower also gastrointestinal and lung cancer,
deadly disease such as cancer. protrude from the pore-ready various tumours, as well as
Job’s tears, Coix lachryma to receive pollen from the male excrescences, warts and whitlows
jobi L., which belongs to the Coix flowers. Like other members of in north eastern parts of India.
genus and poaceae family is an grass Family (Poaceae), Job’s The active compound
important crop used as food and tears are pollinated by the wind. found in Job’s tears seed is
medicine in Asian countries. It Following pollination, a seed- coixenolide (473 ppm). In
is cultivated for 1000’s of years bearing grain is produced by the addition to coixenolide, other
for its use in multiple fields from fertile female flower. The shiny oil components, including
food to ornaments. The name gray beads are dispersed and palmitic acid, stearic acid,
Job’s tears is given due to their planted like seeds, but they are oleic acid and linoleic acid,
distinctive tear drop shape. It actually remarkable little shells are also present which showed
is also known as ‘Jagradi’ in containing flowers and grains. potent growth inhibitory activity
sanskrit and ‘Sankru’ in hindi. Job’s tear - food and on a transplantable tumor. An
Popularity of Job’s tear is rapidly nutritional value anticancer drug made from
increasing due to its medicinal Job’s tears is used in this oil, i.e. Kanglaite, which
functions and as an ideal healthy various food items. The hulled has been applied clinically in
food. grains are used for boiling like many countries and has been
Morphological description rice. It can be milled, ground to have proved effective in treating
Job’s tears belongs to flour and baked into bread. The multiple cancer causing cells.
the species of true grasses i.e., grains are also used in soups, Soil and climatic
Poaceae. It is a tall perennial porridge, drinks, pastries etc. In requirements
grass. It grows around 3 ft. with India, the Nagas use the grain Job’s tears is found to
knobbly, bamboo like stems from for brewing a beer called zhu or grow in tropical and sub-tropical
the base of which new tillers dzu. A Japanese variety called regions. It has a wide range of
arise. The leaves are glossy deep “Ma-Yuen” is brewed into a tea adaptability and can even grow
green in colour, 2 inches wide and an alcoholic beverage and in considerable moisture stress
with slightly wavy edges. They roasted seeds are made into condition and in marginal soil.
are monoecious and pollinated a coffee-like drink. According In India, it is found in warm
by winds. The flowering and to Agnes Arber, the leaves are slopes of hills up to an elevation
fruiting spikelets are insignificant used as fodder in part of India, of 1600 m particularly in north
but the receptacle are pea sized and are especially relished by eastern states. It adapts into wide
that hardens and becomes pale elephants. The grains contains range of temperature from cool
bluish grey and is often used 15-20 g proteins, 0.5-6.2 g temperate to wet tropical and
for beads and other decorative fats, 58.3-77.2 g carbohydrates, even to dry zones. It can tolerate
16 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalannual precipitation of 600 – the pupating insects in the soil as stage of growth and drier season
4200 mm and it can flourish in well as it increases the infiltration as the grain heads start forming
temperature range between 9.6° of rainwater into deeper layers. are necessary for good yield and
to 27.8°C. The soil pH can be Sowing better quality. The field should
anywhere between 4.5 - 8.4. The seeds are sown be kept weed free during the
Land preparation during monsoon at the rate of initial days of plant germination
The land should be 10-20 kg ha-1 according to the to have potential yield levels and
stubble free without any remain place and type of cultivation. A to ensure the least insect and
of the previous crops. One spacing of 60 X 60 cm or 60 X pest attack.
deep ploughing followed by 2-3 45 cm between the rows and the Varieties
times harrowing and planking is plants is maintained. The seeds There are two main
done to obtain fine tilth of soil. are sown at the depth of 2 to 4 varieties of the species, one
Usually summer ploughing is cm according to soil and climatic wild and one cultivated. The wild
useful for exposing and killing condition. Sufficient rain in early variety, Coix lacryma-jobi var.
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 17lacryma-jobi, has hard-shelled encountered. However, diseases to facilitate the upcoming crop.
pseudocarps very hard, pearly such as Leaf blight caused by Yield of un-husked grains varies
white, shining oval structures Helminthosporium coicis and significantly from one country
usually 1cm or less used as Head smut caused by Ustilago to another. In Philippine Islands
beads for making rosaries, coicis are seen. Spraying contact yield is about 3.5 t ha-1where as
necklaces and other objects. It fungicide such as mancozeb, in Sri Lanka, it is 2.1 t ha-1.
includes var. stenocarpa and captan can control leaf blight Future Line of Work
var. monilifer. The cultivated disease. Head smut can be Job’s tear is a hardy
variety Coix lacryma-jobi var. controlled by spraying benomyl and vigorous growing plant. It
ma-yuen is harvested as a cereal (systemic) or thiram (contact). requires a very less fertility or no
crop, has a soft shell and is used Integrated insect and pest fertility. So one can opt a place in
medicinally in parts of Asia. As management approach always uncultivated and marginal lands
the crop is still underutilized, not stand first in crop production, of hill regions. There appears to
much research has been done to hence broad spectrum of control be a tremendous potential for
develop new varieties. can be possible. cultivating coix in hills ecosystem
Manuring Harvesting to sustain the tribal livelihood.
Around 10-20 tons of Normal crop is harvested The major bottlenecks of
FYM is mixed in the soil during in 4-5 months if there is no production and processing
the land preparation ten to fifteen seasonal variation. Duration of technology need to be resolved
days before sowing. The organic the crop is always regional and by taking research on priority
matter helps in maintaining the climate bounded. Plants are cut areas viz. yield enhancement
good soil texture and better off at base and grain separated by increasing harvest index,
water retention capacity. The by threshing. Seeds are dried in synchronous maturity, lodging
plant does not require much sun prior to milling and maintain resistance etc. A population
fertilizer application but use of 8-12 % moisture before packing improvement programme for
organic mulches has been found the grains. Threshing and locally adapted varieties as well
to have positive effect on the winnowing operation are carried as programme for development
yield of the crop. out according to the need of of composites in coix may be
Irrigation the seeds, as well as consumer undertaken by research center
This crop is usually requirements. located in the hills.
grown under rain fed condition. Yield Besides promoting coix
Crop is tolerant to drought Grain yield being cultivation in the upland / hills,
condition. However irrigation a complex character, is the special efforts should be made
at critical stages of crop sum of many morphological to introduce coix cultivation
such as germination, grain and biochemical events which to uncultivated marginal and
formation etc., will increase occur during the crop growth degraded lands in hills and
the yield manifold than the and development. The yield much importance to be given to
rainfed cultivation. Irrigated crop per unit land area depends expansion of crop area in plain
production enables the higher on the total bio-productivity lands. This will not only generate
dry-matter accumulation and and its partitioning into the income for poor farmers but also
thereby increases the fodder economically important parts. improve the structure of these
availability in the agriculture Yield of grains varies upon the lands to sustain agriculture for
s e c t o r. C r o p n e e d s 6 - 1 0 strain which is being cultivated. future generations. A concerted
irrigation to complete its life Developmental stages of crop effort is thus, needed by research
cycle with luxurious supply of depend on the local climate and institutions, farmers and all the
water. soil type. In India, average yield government organizations in
Crop Protection of 2 - 4.5 t ha-1 is expected in making improvement of such
Job’s tears is a hardy hill regions and little less in plain valuable and nutritive crop into
plant and severe incidence areas. Grains are harvested first. daily life of the people for the
of diseases is not much Straw is removed from the field better tomorrow.
18 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalRoshin Mariam George
Dr. Beena Thomas
College of Agriculture, Vellayani
Growing and O
rchids represent
a pinnacle of
evolutionary success
in the plant kingdom.
maintaining
They are possibly the largest
family of flowering plants on
Earth. Phalaenopsis orchids,
commonly known moth orchids
Phalaenopsis
are the second most important
orchid genera having an inherent
charm that is lacking in other
species or hybrids. Phalaenopsis
Orchids
has become an important cut-
flower crop, with large flowers
possessing unusually long-
lasting qualities. These plants
exhibit an incredible range of
diversity in size, shape, structure,
colour and fragrance of the
flower. During 2005 in United
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 19Lianher occur naturally in the tropical
Lianher Orange areas and require warm humid
Happy Song conditions. A Day temperature
of 29-30°C is usually preferred
and night temperature should
not go below 15.5°C. A small
difference is essential between
day and night temperatures.
Humidity
D u r i n g t h e d a y, a
minimum of 70% humidity must
be maintained. If the temperature
rises it is essential to boost the
humidity by watering and misting
more frequently. Humidity should
be less at night, especially when
plants are in flowering stage.
Phalaenopsis may be grown
outside in places shaded by
trees and with fine natural air
King car movement. In greenhouses,
purple queen where outside air is dry, it is
better to maintain humidity and
States, potted orchids gained Varieties secure air movement.
a total wholesale value of US There are several Light
$144 million and Phalaenopsis varieties of moth orchid, each Phalaenopsis need
orchids earned 75% of all the with its own distinct blossom bright diffuse light conditions for
orchids sold replacing Cattleya style. Some of them include King strong growth and good flower
which was the most popular type Car Purple Queen, Reyoung production. Some varieties
of 1980s. The following factors Gold, Lianher Happy Song and that need high light levels to
must be considered to outline the Lianher Orange. bloom may be sunburned if
strategies to grow moth orchids Temperature exposed to intense light under
successfully. Phalaenopsis orchids high temperature conditions. It is
20 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalbetter to accustom them to bright and keep the medium moist for important to recognize and
light gradually. Even though longer periods. Charcoal can be control diseases and pests
light is a very important cultural used while planting Phalaenopsis as soon as possible. A wide
factor, its effectiveness is greatly since it may help to remove toxic range of pests, from insects to
influenced by temperature and substances. barely visible mites attack these
humidity. Plants can be grown Flowering orchids. To control insect, use
at highest light intensities when Constant air temperatures imidachlorpid @ 0.3 ml per litre
temperature is maintained at above 26°C inhibit flowering of of water at a gap of 20-30 days.
moderate level and humidity most Phalaenopsis hybrids and a Avoid copper based chemicals
remains high (greater than 50%). 25/20°C day/night temperature like copper oxy chloride at higher
Air movement is important in regime is used commercially to concentration as copper is toxic
moderating temperatures and induce flowering. So, growers to orchids. To control snails and
creating uniform humidity levels prefer to cultivate these plants slugs metaldehyde (5%) can be
in the growing area. These plants at daily temperature between used. Diseases are the results
can be grown indoors under 25 and 30°C. Drier conditions of infections by bacteria, fungi
indirect light. with brighter daylight during and viruses. To keep the soft
Water this time may help flowering. rot diseases in check, spray
A very critical aspect Do not cut the spikes of plants mancozeb @ 1 gram per litre
in the successful culturing of once flowered since they re- of water at an interval of 10-
orchids is “watering”. It is very bloom on the same spike. After 20 days. If yellowing of leaf or
important for plant’s health that flowering, the spike can be cut rotting of stem is found, spray
good quality water is applied back to the node nearest to the Bavistin (Carbendazim) @ 1
in preferred quantities and at flowers. This flower spike may gram per litre of water. During
required times. Phalaenopsis either produce a second flower this time reduce the water to
orchids require a moist condition spike later, develop into a keiki the plants. If there is rotting
and hence require steady flow or plantlet or sometimes it may symptom, cut that portion and
of water supply. Although much wither and die. apply mancozeb as a paste in the
of the water passes through the Fertilizers cut portion. Also keep the plant
pot, it dissolves salts and other At rapid growth phase dry for few days until the rot gets
harmful materials and removes during monsoon and cooler under control. A good strategy
them from the media. Generally, periods of the year, Phalaenopsis is to inspect the plants often for
watering should be done enough require frequent applications of symptoms of pests or diseases.
in the day to allow the plant weak fertilizer solutions. Growth Isolate affected plants from new
surfaces to dry before evening. is slower during summer months, plants. Use mechanical methods
Greenhouses remain cooler and so fertilizing can be less frequent. of removal followed by low
the plants don’t dry quickly even 20-20-20 or 19:19:19 at the toxicity chemicals. Biologically
on cloudy days. rate of 2 grams per litre of water active controls like Pseudomonas
Media seems to yield good results. Do exist but may not eradicate the
Phalaenopsis prefer not give organic fertilizers much problem completely.
to have their medium remain as the leaves are soft and may During the time of its
constantly moist. The medium get fungal infection. introduction into cultivation,
most often employed include Other factors to be taken more than a century ago, this
coconut husk chips, coconut husk care of lovely orchid has won the favour
fibres, hardwood charcoal and Avoid water in the crown of orchid growers, but for many
tile pieces (depending upon your of the plant to prevent rotting years its culture was considered
watering habit and humidity). which leads to the death of the extremely difficult as healthy and
Re-potting can be done when plant. Good cultural practices, vigorous specimens were rare.
the plants have over grown in the hygienically maintained healthy Phalaenopsis is no longer an
pots or when the potting medium plants greatly diminish pests orchid to challenge the master
has deteriorated. Plastic pots are and disease conditions in growers but is now an accepted
common since they are cheaper Phalaenopsis collection. It is orchid even for the beginners.
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 21Protected Cultivation
High Yielding
Parthenocarpic
Cucumber Hybrid
C
u c u m b e r greenhouses. Salad cucumbers AmalPremachandran
(Cucumis sativus L.) are mainly preferred for their Dr.MeeraManjusha A. V
is one of the most sensory traits, saturated aroma, Dr.AnjuPadmanabhan
popular vegetable crisp texture and fresh tastes. Assistant Professor RARS Pilicode
crops cultivated broadly This fact demands the breeders
throughout the world. It grows to work not only for increasing
productively under conditions of productivity and resistance to
of high humidity, high light, economically important diseases,
fertilizers and moisture in plastic but to direct a special attention
22 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalon a wide variety of soil types; for macro and micro nutrient
however, deep, fertile soils content. Depending on results
that are well drained, with a of these analyses, needs for
pH between 6 to 6.5 is ideal. fertilization to provide macro
Poor plant growth and reduced nutrients such as nitrogen,
yield can result from soil that is phosphorus, potassium,
excessively acidic with pH below calcium, magnesium and sulfur
6. Weed and pest control are are determined.
also important management The time from planting
practices to ensure optimum to harvest can be relatively
production in green houses. quick in as few as 36 to 40 days
Cucumber plants are susceptible from planting depending on
to a variety of insect, bacterial, variety and weather conditions.
fungal and nematode infections. As an approximation, a first
Early identification of such harvest date can be predicted by
infections or infestations is the key counting forward 8 to 10 days
to appropriate and rapid control from the first appearance of fully
methods. Disease prevention opened female flowers.
strategies include crop rotation, Salad cucumbers are
careful field selection, sanitation, harvested at a variety of stages,
soil treatments and appropriate from quite young to mature
seed selections. before seeds reach final maturity
It is a common practice and harden. Those that are
to utilize soil mulches. It controls harvested prior to maturation of
weeds, protect from insects, seeds are marketed as seedless.
modify soil temperatures, Fruit is harvested when uniform
conserve water and control length, shape and diameter are
to the sensory properties of the erosion. Mulches can include reached and before yellowing
fruits. Recently Kerala Agriculture peat moss or other organic appears at the blossom end.
University have developed a materials. Many commercial In general, harvest length is
salad cucumber variety KPCH-1, operations use plastic covering determined by target market.
the first of its kind in south Indian as a mulch to protect crops. Typical fruit length in English type
public sector. Irrigation is accomplished cucumbers for the fresh whole
Salad cucumbers are either through flooding furrows market is 30 to 30cm, garden
grown in either fields or green or direct drip lines laid along cucumbers destined for the fresh
houses. Green house grown the planted rows. Cucumbers sliced market are harvested at
cucumber plants are normally require frequent irrigation during 18 to 23 cm, Total expected
established as transplants. the growing period. Too little yield depends directly on length
Greenhouse cucumber plants moisture will affect fruit shape of harvest period. Yields range
have very large leaves and whereas water soaked fields can from one to three pounds of fruit
grow vigorously. Each plant is lead to mildew and other disease per plant per week during the
provided five to seven square feet problems. peak harvest period. A normal
of space and is always grown on Determining the need harvest period of 12 weeks in
a trellis. Greenhouse cucumbers for fertilization of cucumber a well-managed crop can yield
require close monitoring of growing areas is generally a total of 8 to 12Kg of fruit per
nutrients to maintain good made through both soil nutrient plant.
health and productivity. Like analysis (typically done at least Note- Seeds of KPCH is
most commodities, cucumbers four months before planting) and available at Dept of Olericulture,
do best under certain soil plant tissue nutrient analysis. For College of Horticulture
and temperature conditions. plant tissue analysis, growing Vellanikkara, Kerala Agricultural
Cucumbers can be planted leaves are sampled and analyzed University (Rs. 5-7 per seed).
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 23Plant
Pradeepika C1,2
Selvakumar R3
Krishnakumar T1
Sirisha T1
Suresh Kumar J1
More S1
Based
Hanume Gowda1
Sajeev M.S.1
1ICAR-Central Tuber Crop Research Institute,
Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
2Department of Plant Sciences, North Dakota
State University, Fargo, North Dakota State, USA.
3Centre for Protected Cultivation Technology,
ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa
Diet
Campus, New Delhi-110012.
A Way to
Healthier
Life
24 KERALA KARSHAKAN
SEPTEMBER 2020
e-journalA
whole plant-based diet in order to increase production, importance of consuming
defined as a nutritious, develops antibody resistant colorful phytonutrient-enriched
c o s t- e f f e c t i v e a n d bacterial strains in farm animals plant-based foods. Rainbow diet
ecologically sustainable and results in different kind of concept emphasizes different
diet comprising higher amounts cancers in people. Especially colored vegetables and fruits
of vegetables, whole grains, fruits stressed and crowded animal relating to the health of different
and nuts; mainly dominated by rearing conditions can become organs of the body. For instance,
fresh or minimally processed breeding grounds of greater consuming red colored apples,
plant foods and limited amounts pandemics. These pandemics cherries, beets and strawberries
of animal-based products. On should be stopped at least from benefits the adrenal glands
the contrary, an animal-based now by avoiding consumption health.
diet dependency contributes of an animal-based diet (factory The term ‘plant-based
many health-related risks farmed animals). According diet’ has changed a lot over
including most recent COVID-19 to evidence-based studies two the decades with diversified
(Coronavirus disease 2019), major factors play important foods and ample food supply
AIDS, and measles. In addition, role in human longevity, genetics chains. Food diversification led
it contributes to the rapid climate and lifestyle choices. In terms of consumers to choose healthy
change by increasing production genetics, transmission of harmful and nutritionally rich diet to
of greenhouse gases due to genes from parents is inevitable, maintain all-round health.
large scale livestock rearing therefore it is better to work on Mainly diversified dietary patterns
or creation of pasturelands our second-best option which include vegan diet which is
for farm animals. An article is lifestyle choices especially solely vegetables and fruit-based
published by Klaus Michelle food habits. Adopting healthy diet with complete exclusion
(2020) had given detailed plant-based dietary patterns of animal source and dairy
explanation, how humanity can change the people’s health products, whereas vegetarian
will be finished if we continue in a positive way for being dietary pattern includes plant-
eating factory farming products cardioprotective due to presence based diet with few animal
such as farm animals (chickens, of essential nutrients such as source products such as eggs
cattle, pigs, ducks). Rearing bioactive compounds, vitamins, and dairy. In order to access the
of livestock under intensive minerals, proteins and dietary nutritional adequacy, individual
conditions including cramped, (Willett et al. 2019). In this dietary choices are critical,
dirty, stressed conditions, use of context, a rainbow diet concept and which are purely driven by
growth hormones and antibiotics introduced by Dr. Minich, gives several factors such as ecological
Fig.1. Plant-based foods and its health benefits
KERALA KARSHAKAN e-journal
SEPTEMBER 2020 25You can also read
