‘Vegetable Science’ is an official publication of Indian Society of Vegetable Science (ISVS), a society dedicated to promoting the research & development of vegetables. The journal plays a crucial role in disseminating knowledge, sharing innovative ideas and fostering collaboration among scientists, academia and experts working in the realm of vegetable crops. The journal ‘Vegetable Science’ covers all aspects of vegetable research & development. Journal title : Vegetable Science Frequency : 2 issues per year NAAS Score : 5.54 Print ISSN : 0970-6585 Online ISSN : 2455-7552 Publisher : Indian Society of Vegetable Science (ISVS) Language : English
Indian Society of Vegetable Science, ICAR-IIVR, Varanasi-221305, UP
GUS assay in hypocotyl generated callus of chili (Capsicum annuum L.) cultivar Kashi Anmol
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Heterosis for morphological and yield contributing traits in tropical carrot (Daucus carota L.)
Carrot (Daucus carota L.) is one of the most important salad vegetable crops globally because of the nutrient richness, palatability and lower pesticide load. Heterosis breeding and hybrids has noteworthy role in boosting the productivity, better crop management and enhanced quality in many crops. Therefore, the field experiments were carried out during 2022-2024 to estimate the heterosis among CMS-based hybrids for growth and yield contributing traits in carrot. The significant differences of mean squares among parents and hybrids for various traits of economic importance indicated the presence of sufficient variation. Overall the hybrid mean of 48 cross-combinations is appreciably higher/desirable than parental mean for days to germination (13.2%), plant weight (41.5%), leaf length (15.0%), leaf weight (37.9%), root weight (42.7%), shoulder diameter (11.1%), core width (-24.2%) and marketable yield (42.5%) clearly indicates the presence of hybrid vigour and prospects for heterosis breeding in carrot. Overall, the superior hybrid-combinations namely VRCARH-23344, VRCARH-27244, VRCARH-23485, VRCARH-21185, VRCARH-212135, VRCARH-21244, VRCARH- 241199 and VRCARH- 214206 have prospects for development of CMS-based potential heterotic hybrids in tropical carrot.
Carrot, Daucus carota, Male sterility, CMS, Heterosis, Hybrid.
Expression analysis of MADS-box genes in phenotypically distinct carrot cytoplasmic male sterile lines and their maintainers
The utilization of maternally inherited loss of male fertility has facilitated the development of hybrid seeds for commercial production of carrots. The loss of male sterility is due to alterations in floral organs that render the male reproductive organs unfunctional or may cause the complete elimination of a specific floral organ. Although organ alterations have previously been studied in carrot cytoplasmic male sterile lines to characterize them on phenotypic and molecular basis, the role of MADS-box genes in the development of different floral organs has not been emphasized. In this study, the analogous use of stereo microscopy and qRT-PCR enabled the characterization of the role MADS-box genes play during carrot floral organ development. A total of 25 CMS lines were screened to determine the floral organ alterations. Out of which, four phenotypically distinct floral morphotypes were identified in the CMS germplasm, i.e., sepaloid type, brown anther type, miniature leaf type and lance type. Further, these four phenotypically distinct CMS lines were subjected to quantitative expression analysis of eight floral identity MADS-Box genes. The gene expression results confirmed that variation in the expression of floral identity genes is responsible for organ alteration in male sterile flowers of carrot.
Soil and foliar application of zinc for improving nutritional quality in potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)
In order to investigate the response of application of zinc sulphate on the quality of potato tubers, a field experiment was conducted during rabi season 2023-24 in a field at the Zonal Agricultural Research Station, Chhindwara, under Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur (M.P.). The experiment consists of 7 treatments with RDF and different doses of zinc fertilizer at 25 and 50 DAP. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results indicated that treatment T7 [2.5 kg Zinc/ha from zinc sulphate, at the time of planting + foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 2 g/L (400 ppm Zn) at 25 and 50 DAP] give maximum total soluble solids (6.37 ◦Brix), starch (30.96%), total sugar (5.50%), reducing sugar (0.92%), non- reducing sugar (4.58%), dry matter of tubers (75.48 g/plant) and Zn content of potato tuber (24.79 mg/kg) as compare to other treatments. Based on the present investigation, it can be concluded that soil with foliar application of zinc sulphate improved potato tuber quality under the present agro-climatic conditions as a biofortified crop.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rashmi Bhumarkar, B.P. Bisen, Latesh Kumar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Gummy stem blight of bottle gourd: Pathogen identification, host screening, and management strategies
Gummy stem blight, caused by Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum (syn. Phoma cucurbitacearum; teleomorph - Didymella bryoniae), is becoming a major problem for the cultivation and seed production of bottle gourd, including almost all gourds and melons. During May-June, 2021-2024, severe disease incidence of gummy stem blight occurred on bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria; Family: Cucurbitaceae) at Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Its infection is noted on green and ripe fruits and has become considered a serious threat for bottle gourd cultivation and its seed production. Initially, typical symptoms of gummy stem blight appeared as circular dark brown-tan spots at the margin of the leaves and water-soaked areas on the stem near the soil line, including defoliation, wilting, and death of plant vines. The pathogen was isolated from diseased stems and leaves of bottle gourd (var. Kashi Ganga). The pathogen produced white aerial mycelial growth with an undulated colony with cylindrical non-septate to monoseptate conidia. 14-day-old plants of bottle gourd were inoculated by spraying a conidial suspension (2.3 × 106 cfu/mL) of pathogen isolate to test pathogenicity. Based on the detailed cultural, morphological, pathological, microscopic characteristics and pathogenicity test, the causal pathogen was identified as S. cucurbitacearum. Twelve cultigens of cucurbits were screened against gummy stem blight pathogen under net-house conditions. On the basis of disease reaction among tested cultigens namely summer fit, cucumber- Cucumis hardwickii and bitter gourd (IC-21250044) were found highly resistant. The treatments comprises spot application of Trichoderma asperellum + Bacillus subtillis (CRB-7) @ 10 gram per pit at the time of planting and soil drenching @1% in the root zone near collar region at the time of each earthing recorded highest in vivo seed germination (84%), lowest gummy stem blight percent disease severity index (7.0) and maximum yields (31.66 tonnes/ha) with highest BC ratio (1: 2.73) in comparison to control.
Bottle gourd. Disease management. Gummy stem blight. Pathogenicity. Stagonosporopsis cucurbitacearum.
Copyright (c) 2025 Atma Nand Tripathi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Genotype × environment interaction and molecular marker analyses reveal stable tomato lines for yield components, TSS and tomato leaf curl disease resistance
The objective of this study was to analyze genotype-by-environment interactions (GEI) related to yield as well as its component traits, and resistance against tomato leaf curl disease (ToLCD) using GGE biplot analysis. Based on prior research, selected tomato genotypes were evaluated for horticultural traits such as average fruit weight, yield, total soluble solids (TSS) and ToLCD resistance (natural hot-spot conditions) over five consecutive years (2020-2025). Additionally, molecular markers were employed to identify the presence of ToLCD resistance genes (Ty-2 and Ty-3) in these genotypes. Field screenings categorized the genotypes into highly resistant, resistant, and moderately resistant groups. GEI analysis was conducted using GGE biplot techniques, with the R ‘metan’ package utilized for various visualizations, including mean vs. stability view and MGIDI analysis. Overall, 15 superior genotypes were identified based on average fruit weight, fruit yield, TSS and ToLCD resistance such as VRT-19, VRT-34, VRT-50, VRT-51, ToDVAR-5, ToLCV-32, H-88-78-1, H-88-78-2, jointless tomatoes VRJT-24, VRJT-32, VRJT-41-2, VRJT-37, VRJT-94; orange color tomato KB-17 and KB-3-1. These genotypes can be used in breeding to introgress yield-related traits and ToLCD resistance.
Genotype-by-environment interaction, Tomato, ToLCD resistance, Molecular markers, MGIDI.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jagesh Kumar Tiwari, Nagendra Rai, Manish K. Singh, Gaurav Mishra, Rajat Singh, Priyanka Sharma, Yagyat Singh, YS Reddy, AN Tripathi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Interspecific grafting compatibility studies between tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) grafted on eggplant (Solanum melongena) and its wild relatives
Tomato grafting has proven to overcome the biotic and abiotic stresses as well as improve growth, yield, fruit quality. However, in India the graft compatibility between eggplant rootstocks and tomato varieties has not been explored extensively. The total 18 grafting combinations were developed by using three different (including two breeding lines) varieties of tomato as a scion and varieties of brinjal including two wild species i.e., ST05 and SG06. Tomato var. EC97, EC98 and DOrg and Brinjal varieties and its wild species i.e., SM01, SM02, SM03, SM04, ST05 and SG06 were used as root stock for this study. The experiment was laid out Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 18 treatments and 3 replications and data were analyzed statistically. The results revealed that the plants are compatible with the grafting through cleft grafting method viz., graft success rate (95.71%), days taken to sprouting (10.60 days), number of leaves (27.12), plant height (32.99 cm), stem diameter (0.45 cm), root length (21.59 cm), root fresh weight (16.23 g) and root dry weight (10.51 g) for the graft combination SM01 x DOrg. The 2nd graft combination which exhibited highest graft success rate (93.03%) was SM01x EC98. The highest root length was recoded in graft combination SM01 x EC97 (22.85 cm) followed by ST05 x DOrg and SM01 x EC98. Better root growth as root fresh weight was recorded in graft combination ST05 x EC97 (18.39 g) followed by SM01 x EC98 and ST05 x DOrg (17.65 g and 17.05 g, respectively) but root dry weight was recorded maximum in graft combinations i.e., ST05 x DOrg (13.20g) followed by ST05 x EC98 and SM01 x EC97 (12.59 and 12.23 g, respectively). Further studies are required for the selection of best rootstocks that support vigorous growth of the scions under interspecific grafting for improved graft compatibility and plant growth.
Tomato, Brinjal, S. torvum, S. gilo, Graft compatibility.
Copyright (c) 2025 Pradeep Kr. Yadav, Ankur Agarwal, Harendra Kumar, Shiva Kumar, Om Prakash, Basant Ballabh, Devakanta Pahad Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Enzymatic and biochemical aspects of anthracnose resistance in chili (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes
Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes and hybrids resistant to anthracnose disease are not yet commercially available, and under favorable environmental conditions, the crop suffers significant yield and economic losses. In this study, six chili genotypes and 15 hybrids were screened for their resistance to anthracnose disease. Various plant disease resistance-related parameters were assessed, and the genotypes Bidhan Chili 4, Chinese Bona, and Pant C 1, along with the hybrids Pant C 1 × Bidhan Chili 4, Bidhan Chili 4 × Chili 38-Ragi, and Chinese Bona × Chili 38-Ragi, exhibited resistance to anthracnose disease. To gain a deeper understanding of chili defense mechanisms, biochemical changes in key defense enzymes—such as polyphenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase (POX), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL)—as well as protein and phenol content in fruits (both before and after inoculation) were analyzed. The results showed that resistant genotypes and hybrids exhibited higher activity levels of PPO, POX, and PAL, along with increased protein and phenol content, compared to susceptible ones. These elevated biochemical responses in Colletotrichum capsici-inoculated fruits suggest that these mechanisms play a crucial role in enhancing host resistance against anthracnose disease.
Chili, Colletotrichum, Disease severity, Biochemical, Enzyme assay.
Copyright (c) 2025 Solanki Bal, Arup Chattopadhyay, Asit Kumar Mandal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Characterization of primary genepool for enation leaf curl disease resistance and morpho-horticultural traits in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]
The present investigation was planned to examine genetic parameters such as GCV, PCV, heritability and GA, along with correlations, diversity, path coefficients and PCA from data on 100 okra genotypes. High GCV and PCV were observed for ELCV (CI), NEB, LA (0) and YPP (g), NH, IL (cm) and NFPP, whereas moderate GCV and PCV were observed for FFN, BA (0), and FL (cm). High heritability coupled with high GAM was observed for almost all the characters studied, except FL (cm), PH (cm), AFW, DFF and DFH show low heritability with low GAM. The YPP, NEB, ELCV (CI), LA (0), NH and IL (cm) showed high genetic advance that helped in effective and reliable selection through these characters for okra improvement. DFF was significantly positively correlated with D50F and DFH. While the negative association with ELCV (CI) was positively correlated with BA (0.397), it was negatively correlated with FL (-0.308), NFPP (-0.627) and NH (-0.535). YPP resulted in a significant positive correlation with AFW, NFPP and NH (0.867) but has a negative correlation with ELCV (CI). The NFPP had a maximum direct effect on AFW (g) followed by FFN and NH and the residual effect of the path analysis was low (0.008), suggesting the inclusion of maximum yield influencing characters in the present study and identified as key traits for developing high fruit yielding genotypes in okra for future breeding program. The genotypes were divided into eight clusters using squared Euclidean distance. The results revealed the presence of considerable genetic diversity in the first three principal components contributed to 53.2% of total variability during the study.
Diversity, ELCV, Genetic variability and PCA
Copyright (c) 2025 Brijesh Kumar Maurya , P. Karmakar, D. P. Singh, Rajeev Kumar, B. K. Singh, Vidya Sagar, C. L. Maurya, Rajiv, P. K. Singh, S. K. Biswas, Nagendra Rai (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Screening of chili genotypes against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) under screen-house conditions
Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) is a vital crop in global agriculture, particularly in India, where it faces significant challenges from pests, notably root-knot nematodes (RKNs), specifically Meloidogyne incognita. This pathogen significantly impacts both the yield and quality of the crop. To counter these adverse effects, there is a pressing need for resistant genotypes. Consequently, this study was conducted to identify chili genotypes that exhibit resistance to root-knot nematodes, aiming to enhance economic yields. Based on the root-knot index and number of galls, six genotypes (Arka Swetha, Kashi Abha, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-2, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-3, AICRP-CH 2 and AICRP-CH 3) had shown susceptible reaction with 31.3 to 54.3 number of galls per root system, while 14 genotypes Kashi Anmol, Kashi Ratna, Pusa Sadabahar, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-1, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-4, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-5, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-6, CIAH/CHES/LPYCHG-7, CH 1 Raj 2022, CH 2 Raj 2023, AICRP-CH 4, AICRP-CH 5, AICRP-CH 6 and AICRP-CH 7) had shown moderately resistant reaction with 21.0 to 27.0 number of galls per root system and remaining six genotypes (Arka Khyati, Arka Meghana, Arka Harita, CH-RLC 2021, CH-WI 2020 and AICRP-CH 1) had shown resistant reaction with 4.7 to 9.0 number of galls per root system. The resistant genotypes exhibited the least percentage decrease in fresh root weight, fresh shoot weight, dry root weight and dry shoot weight compared to uninoculated plants, whereas the susceptible genotypes showed the greatest reductions. The lowest number of galls per plant, egg masses per root system and reproduction factor were observed in the Arka Harita variety, followed by Arka Meghana. In contrast, the highest values were recorded in Kashi Abha.
Copyright (c) 2025 Manjeet Kaur, Sanjay Kumar, Saroj Yadav, Indu Arora, Bhawna Yadav, Prashant Kaushik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Optimizing NaCl concentration for screening salt tolerance in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) genotypes at germination stage using salt injury index
Salinity is a major abiotic stress that impacts plant growth and crop yields, particularly in saline-prone regions. The main objective of this work is to determine the optimum NaCl concentration for screening salt tolerance using the Salt Injury Index (SII) by analyzing the effects of NaCl-induced salinity on germination and seedling growth in 30 cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) genotypes. Cowpea seeds were exposed to six NaCl concentrations (0, 75, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mM) in petri plates. Seedling growth parameters such as germination, shoot and root length, seedling length, dry weight, and vigour indices (I & II), were recorded to evaluate the effects of salinity stress. A consistent decline in all measured parameters was observed as NaCl concentration increased. Linear regression of the Salt Injury Index values revealed NaCl concentrations caused a 50% reduction in specific traits, including 215 mM affecting germination, 180 mM for shoot, 210 mM for root, 200 mM for seedling length and dry weight, and 130 and 160 mM for Vigour Index-I and -II, respectively, with an average threshold of 183.57 mM. Consequently, 200 mM NaCl was identified as the optimal concentration to evaluate salt tolerance levels, offering a standardized benchmark for assessing cowpea genotypes under saline conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shivam Kumar Rai, Rajesh Kumar, Abhinav Dayal, M. Linga Swami Sai Reddy, Nakul Gupta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of chili genotypes for yield and yield attributing traits in two contrasting Indian environments
Capsicum annuum L., commonly known as chili, holds global significance as a widely cultivated species for both culinary and spice purposes. This study sought to identify high-yielding chili and bell pepper varieties adaptable to diverse environments. Twelve genotypes were assessed for seven qualitative and six key quantitative yield-related traits under contrasting conditions: ICAR-IARI, New Delhi, and ICAR-RCER Research Center, Ranchi, Jharkhand utilizing a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. Pooled Analysis of Variance revealed significant variations among genotypes and between locations for all quantitative traits. Notably, plant height, fruit width, fruit length, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, and yield exhibited high Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), coupled with significant heritability and genetic advance. Arka Meghana emerged as the superior genotype under both environmental conditions, displaying the highest fruit length (10.9 cm at Ranchi and 10.6 cm at New Delhi), maximum yield per plant (0.650 kg/plant at Ranchi and 0.57 kg/plant at New Delhi), and the shortest days to 50% flowering (40.6 days at Ranchi and 47 days at New Delhi). These findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing Chili and Bell pepper cultivation practices to enhance yield and quality traits under diverse environmental contexts.
Capsicum annuum L, Genetic advance, Heritability, Genotypic coefficient of variation, Phenotypic coefficient of variation, yield.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of genotypes of Melothria heterophylla (Lour) Cogn. for their yield potential
Comprehensive review of pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.): Domestication, global distribution, genetic characterization, breeding strategies, and genomic insights
Cucurbits are a diverse group of plant species grown worldwide for both immature and mature fruits. The fruit is the finest source of beta-carotene, vitamins, and minerals. The crop originated in South America, with Mexico having the most diversity, but it is now scattered worldwide, with Asia Minor serving as a secondary center of diversity. Cucurbita pepo and C. moschata are the two most extensively cultivated species, demonstrating tolerance to a wide range of environments. The systematic breeding process has resulted in the production of numerous significant cultivars appropriate for a variety of applications. The spontaneous mutation resulted in hull-less seeded cultivars, which allowed for the use of seeds for culinary purposes. Bush growth habit, hull-less seeded, higher beta-carotene, biotic stresses such as fungal (powdery mildew, downy mildew, root or crown rot) and viral (begomovirus and potyviruses) diseases were the primary focus of the breeding. C. okeechobeensis and C. lundelliana are wild species with the capacity to withstand a variety of diseases. The genomic sequences for the species C. moschata, C. maxima, C. pepo subsp. pepo, C. argyrosperma subsp. argyrosperma, and C. argyrosperma subsp. sororia is available for use in precision breeding. Saturated genetic maps and the identification of QTLs related to horticulturally important traits will aid in the use of genomic resources for quick improvement and cultivar development with biotic and abiotic stress tolerance.
Cucurbita, Pumpkin, Squash, Disease, QTLs and Genes.
Mean performance, correlation and path coefficient analysis in sponge gourd under arid environment of western Rajasthan
During the investigation, 26 genotypes of sponge gourd were evaluated for 12 traits, revealing significant differences and substantial genetic variability. Mean values for key traits like node at first female flower appearance, internodal length, and vine length were 10.97, 10.68 cm, and 3.14 m, respectively. Yield-related traits, including fruit length (22.07 cm), fruit diameter (3.19 cm), and fruit weight (99.85 g), also showed notable variation. The Thar Tapish and Pusa Sneha cultivars and AHSG-23, AHSG-25, AHSG-28, VRSG-140, VRSG-6 and VRSG-3-13 genotypes performed best under hot arid environmental conditions. Strong phenotypic and genotypic correlations were observed among yield components, with traits like fruit length, fruit weight, and marketable fruit yield per vine showing positive associations. Path coefficient analysis revealed that marketable fruit yield per vine had the highest direct positive effect on total marketable fruit yield, followed by vine length and fruit weight. The traits like internodal length and node at first female flower appearance showed negative effects. Indirect effects were also significant for traits like fruit length, fruit diameter, and number of marketable fruits per vine.
Correlation, Path coefficient, Fruit yield, Sponge gourd.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ankit Gantayat, B R Choudhary, P.K. Yadav, Pawan Kumar, Deepak Gupta, T. Chaubey (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessment of management practices against major insect-pests in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)
One field experiment was conducted for assessment of management practices against major insect pests in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) cultivar Palee (F1) during Kharif, 2021 at RRTTS, OUAT, Bhubaneswar. Nine treatments comprising of para pheromone traps with cue lure and food baits along with foliar spraying of the insecticides; emamectin benzoate 5SG@220 g ha-1, fipronil 5EC@1000 mL ha-1, cartap hydrochloride 50% SP @1000g ha-1, thiodicarb 75 WP @ 500 g ha-1, abamectin 1.8 SC @300 mL ha-1, spinosad 45 SC @200 mL ha-1, malathion 50% EC @ 1000 mL ha-1 (insecticidal check), neem oil 1500ppm@1500 mL ha-1 and untreated check. The results indicated that, ‘application of food bait @ 20 baits ha-1 (cucumber fruit pulp + 100 mL cow urine + 0.5l water) + para pheromone traps @ 25 ha-1 + foliar spray of spinosad 45 SC @ 200 mL ha-1 thrice at 30, 45 and 60 DAS was most effective with 96.36, 81.94, 85.21, 87.03, 79.89 and 60.65% reduction in population of epilachna beetle, red pumpkin beetle, flea beetle, white fly, jassid and green stink bug, respectively over control. The fruit damage by melon fruit fly was 83.17% lower over control and maximum fruit yield (5.5 t ha-1), monetary benefit (Rs.110973 ha-1) and ICBR (8.20) was recorded. This management practice may be considered for the management of major insect pests in bitter gourd cultivation.
Bitter gourd, Pheromone trap, Cue lure, Spinosad.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rituparna Mandal, Arundhati Sasmal, Suman Samilita Dash, Gayatri Biswal, Meenakshi Mohanty (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A novel hydroponic approach for efficient screening and rapid phenotyping for identification of Fusarium wilt resistance in brinjal (Solanum melongena l.) and wild Solanum species
Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melongenae (Fomg), has emerged as a serious disease limiting brinjal productivity. Soil-borne nature of the pathogen, limited reproducibility and environmental variability complicate the use of the laborious traditional screening methods for resistance to Fusarium wilt in breeding programs. To facilitate reliable screening and rapid phenotyping, we resorted to a novel hydroponic approach. In this study, 90 brinjal genotypes, including diverse cultivated and wild accessions, were grown in Hoagland solution and inoculated with Fomg, isolated from a Fusarium wilt-endemic field at the host institute. Disease indices (DI), area under disease progress curve (AUDPC) and area under disease progress stairs (AUDPS) were used to identify resistant genotypes and study disease progression. Host phenotypic trait assessments and histopathological studies were also used to characterize resistant sources. Five genotypes, namely BR-40-7, Pink, Bouldar, S. sisymbriifolium, and S. torvum were found immune to Fusarium wilt, while fifteen genotypes each were found highly resistant and resistant to the disease. Genotypes immune to the disease were asymptomatic. Highly resistant genotypes were late-wilters, while the resistant genotypes were slow-wilters. Highly susceptible genotypes exhibited early, rapid and severe wilting. Resistant genotypes exhibited superior root and shoot development compared to susceptible genotypes. The broad applicability of the hydroponic screening method to diverse plant species and root pathogens underscores its potential to address critical challenges in agriculture. This study is the first to use Fusarium-specific screening of germplasm in hydroponic brinjal and wild Solanum cultures.
Brinjal germplasm, Root pathogen, Disease progression, Histopathology, Trait assessments.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ananya P Kumar, J K Ranjan, B. S. Tomar, Jameel Akhtar, Pragya Ranjan, Ritu Tiwari, Pradeep Kumar, Gayacharan, G. P. Mishra, Suman Lata, Jogendra Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of genetic resources and deciphering the inheritance of powdery mildew resistance in pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes, EC865944 and EC865975
Pea, a major cool-season vegetable legume, suffer substantial yield and quality losses due to powdery mildew (PM), caused by the parasitic fungus species Erysiphe. This disease can lead to yield reductions of 25–70%, affecting quality of produce with notable economic impact. Resistance breeding is one of the most environmentally sustainable strategies to manage this devastating disease. Over a period of three year, a total of 172 diverse pea accessions were field evaluated for powdery mildew resistance (PMR), among which 35 accessions displayed a disease score rating of 0-1, indicating a disease incidence of ≤1%. Notably, three accessions—IC296678, EC865944, and EC865975—demonstrated high resistance levels against Erysiphe pisi. Histopathological observations showed that no conidia germination occurred on the resistant lines IC296678, EC865975 and EC865944 at both 24- and 48-hours post-inoculation, indicating a pre-invasive type of immunity in these genotypes. To investigate the gene action and inheritance patterns of PM resistance in EC865944 and EC865975, we utilized five cross combinations viz., EC865975 × Kashi Udai, EC865944 × VRPM-903, Kashi Ageti × EC865944, EC865944 × Kashi Nandini, and EC865975 × Kashi Shakti. Analysis of the F2 population from these crosses revealed a segregation pattern of one resistant to three susceptible, indicating the presence of a single recessive gene in both the genotypes. Horticultural characterization of these genotypes showed that both belonged to the late-maturing group of peas, characterized by a taller growth habit, an average pod weight ranging from 5.5 to 7.5 g, and an average yield of 75–100 g per plant. These newly identified PMR sources provide invaluable genetic resources, not only for Indian breeders but also for researchers globally, offering a significant step forward in sustainable pea improvement.
Powdery mildew, Erysiphe, Pisum, Resistance and Inheritance and Yield.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jyoti Devi, Anmol S Yadav, Rakesh K Dubey, Vidya Sagar, K.K. Pandey, Sudarshan Maurya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Evaluation of powdery mildew resistant pyramid vegetable pea genotypes introgressed with er1 and er2 genes for yield and related traits in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh
Powdery mildew is among the most destructive disease of vegetable pea causing high yield losses and significant reduction in quality. To overcome this disease, vegetable pea lines developed through gene pyramiding were evaluated in randomized block design over two years to identify high-yielding powdery mildew-resistant line(s). The experiment was carried out during the rabi season of 2017-18 and 2018-19 at the experimental research farm of CSK HPKV, Palampur, using ten genotypes, including three checks. The analysis of data based on mean values of the studied traits revealed significant differences among all the genotypes. On the basis of the mean performance of two years, Line 1-2, P-227, P120-4 and P116-3 showed the best performance with respect to the number of primary branches per pod, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, pod length, internodal distance and pod yield per plant and also exhibited resistance reaction against powdery mildew as these genotypes were introgressed with two recessive powdery mildew resistant genes i.e., er1 and er2.
Vegetable pea, powdery mildew, resistance, pod yield, gene introgression.
Copyright (c) 2024 Priyanka Raj, Shivam Sharma, Shweta Sharma, Priyanka, Rajeev Rathour, Shorya Kapoor, Viveka Katoch (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessing the bio-efficacy of novel insecticides against shoot and fruit borer Earias vitella (Fabricus) in okra
Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.), known as lady’s finger and part of the Malvaceae family, is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. To assess pest control measures, field studies were conducted during the Summer of 2024 and Kharif 2024 at the ICAR-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research, Varanasi, using okra var (Kashi Pragati). The randomized complete block design (RBD) included eight treatments, seven involving various insecticides, such as azadirachtin 300 ppm, quinalphos 25 EC, novaluron 10 EC, lambda-cyhalothrin 5 EC, and fipronil 5 SC, with recommended dose (RD) @ 2 mL/L, double dose (DD) @ 4 mL/L and half dose (HD) @ 1-mL/L, and a control with no insecticide. Infestation levels of E. vitella were recorded before and after treatment applications. Results indicated that all treatments effectively reduced infestation compared to the untreated control. The lowest fruit infestation and highest yields were achieved with (fipronil @ 4 mL/L), yielding 125.04 q/ha in Summer season and 147.04 q/ha in Kharif season, with significant yield increases over the control. The highest ICBR, 1:23.33 in Summer and 1:20.49 in Kharif was observed with (fipronil @ 1 mL/L). Therefore, the novel molecule fipronil can be effectively used to control okra shoots and fruit borer to achieve the higher production of okra.
Okra, Earias vitella, Insect pest management, Yield, ICBR
Copyright (c) 2025 Nahida Afreen, Arvind Nath Singh, Pratap A. Divekar, Sujan Majumder, Shailja Jaiswal, Nagendra Rai (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Estimation of combining ability and nature of gene action for yield and quality traits in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] under salt affected soil
Present investigations were carried out in bottle gourd to assess the combining ability and nature of gene action for yield and quality traits in bottle gourd. About 27 bottle gourd hybrids generated by crossing 9 lines with 3 testers, along with their twelve parents evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replication at the Main Experiment Station (salt affected soil), Department of Vegetable Science, ANDUA&T, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, during the of Zaid seasons of year 2020 and 2021. The pooled estimates of general combining ability over seasons revealed that parents, namely NDBG-13 and NDBG-Sel-1, in both the years and pooled, and Narendra Rashmi in Y2 and pooled, showed positive and significant gca effects in the desirable direction for total fruit yield per plant and other important characters. However, four crosses viz., Narendra Pooja × Pusa Naveen, NDBG-13 × Narendra Rashmi, NDBG-Sel × Narendra Rashmi and Narendra Kamna × Narendra Rashmi in both the years and pooled, NDBG-28 × Pusa Naveen and NDBG-105 × Narendra Prabha and NDBG-28 × Narendra Prabha were found as best specific combiners as they showed significant and positive sca effects in desirable directions. Overdominance was estimated for most of the traits studies, which reveals that the heterosis breeding approach will be more rewarding in bottle gourd.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anoj Yadav, Gulab Yadav, Ruchika Abha, Sharvan Kumar, Lokesh Yadav, Raja Bhaiya (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Effect of seed priming on physiological and biochemical parameters of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seeds
A study was undertaken to study the effect of different priming treatments on cucumber var. Punjab Naveen. Different concentrations of priming treatments viz. K2HPO4, KH2PO4, hydroxyurea, GA3, ethrel, benzyl adenine, mimosine, KNO3, ZnSO4 and hydro priming were given, and parameters were recorded. Among the treatments, GA3 150 ppm improved shoot length (14.93 cm), mean seedling length (26.99 cm) and SVI-I (2699) in comparison to the control. Seed treatment with Ethrel 50 ppm gave the highest speed of germination (4.33) with less mean germination time (2.43). The highest mean seedling dry weight (9.36 mg) and SVI-II (927) were reported with ZnSO4 0.5%. Similarly, total soluble sugars (8.40 mg g-1FW), α-amylase activity (2.49 mg maltose min-1 mg-1 protein) and dehydrogenase activity (0.544) improved with ethrel 50 ppm while K2HPO4 10-3M improved membrane stability index (64.38%) with highest protein content (183.01 mg g-1FW). The activity of antioxidant enzymes like catalase (51.3 μ moles min-1 mg-1 protein) and peroxidase (3.07 ΔA min-1 mg-1 protein) was found highest with benzyl adenine 50 ppm along with reduced lipid peroxidation (0.21 μ moles MDA g-1FW). Hydroxyurea 50 mM gave the highest Total phenol content (5.38 mg g-1FW). The results indicated that priming with growth regulators improved various germination and vigor-contributing characters, along with enhanced enzymatic activity and lesser lipid peroxidation.
Seed priming, GA3, Ethrel, Vigor, Biochemical
Copyright (c) 2025 Varinda, Rajinder Singh (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Biocontrol potential of Bacillus megaterium liquid bioformulation on Meloidogyne incognita infecting brinjal under field conditions
Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the major vegetable crops grown in India. It is a low-calorie vegetable with high nutritional value due to the abundance of many components like fibers, proteins, phenolics, vitamins and minerals. However, its production is severely hampered by the incidence of major pests and diseases, including root-knot nematode. Root-knot nematode management is a challenge since nematicides have been mostly banned/restricted and resistant varieties or non-host crops are often not available. Therefore, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria emerge safe and alternative option for nematode management. Thus, in the present study, Bacillus megaterium (1% A.S.) was evaluated through different application methods and its combination to decipher nematicidal efficacy against Meloidogyne incognita infecting brinjal under field conditions. Three years experimental results revealed that the treatment comprising of seed treatment with Bacillus megaterium (1% A.S..) at 10 mL/kg seed+ Nursery bed treatment with Bacillus megaterium (1% A.S.) 50 mL/m2 + application of 5 tons of FYM enriched with 5.0 liter of Bacillus megaterium (1% A.S.) /ha + Soil drenching with Bacillus megaterium (1% A.S.) at 5 mL/liter at 30 days interval) significantly reduced M. incognita egg mass production per root system (81.7%), final nematode population in soil (60%), with least root gall index (1.0) and enhanced 20.7 of brinjal yield under field conditions. The present study elucidates that B. megaterium (1% A.S.) bioformulation and its combination of application methods could be one of the components in the integrated management of M. incognita infecting brinjal under field conditions.
Brinjal, Meloidogyne incognita, Bacillus megaterium, liquid bioformulation, field evaluation
Copyright (c) 2025 Manjunatha T. Gowda, A. N. Singh, N. Rai (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Genetic constellation studies in stabilized advanced populations in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench)
Copyright (c) 2025 Shatakshi Sood, Anil Bhushan, R.K. Samnotra, Vakul Sood (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Genetic characterization for physiological, biochemical, and quality traits under high-temperature stress in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
This research aimed to assess how tomato plants and their hybrids react physiologically when exposed to high-temperature stress (HS). The research focused on exploring genetic diversity, heritability, and genetic advance in response to high-temperature stress at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Indian Institute of Vegetable Research (ICAR-IIVR), Varanasi, during the summer season of 2024 (February- May). In this investigation, a total of 23 distinct genotypes, comprising 8 parents and 15 crosses, were cultivated using a randomized block design. The results of the ANOVA indicate a notable level of genetic diversity among the selected genotypes concerning different traits. The phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation shows that the PCV is greater than the GCV across all traits studied, highlighting the significant influence of environmental factors. The combination of high heritability and genetic advances in traits like proline, sodium dismutase, and hydrogen peroxide suggests that additive gene effects influence these attributes and are more dependable for efficient selection.
High-temperature stress, Physiological, Biochemical, Proline, Tomato.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gaurav Mishra, Nagendra Rai, P.K Singh, Jagesh K. Tiwari, Rajat Singh, Raj Kumar, Manish K. Singh, Priyanka Sharma, YS Reddy (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Efficacy of novel insecticides and bio-pesticides for diamond back moth (Plutella xylostella) management in cabbage
The experiment was carried out at the Instructional Farm of JNKVV-College of Agriculture, Rewa (M.P), during the Rabi season 2020-2021 on cabbage. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with nine treatments, including Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC at 10 g a.i./ha, Fipronil 5% SC @ 40 g a.i./ha, Indoxacarb 14.5 SC @ 40 g a.i./ha, Spinosad 45 SC @ 100 g a.i./ha, Novaluron 10 EC @ 75 g a.i./ha, Emamectine benzoate 5 SG @ 10 g a.i./ha, Neem oil 0.15% @ 4.5 g a.i./ha , Bt 5% WP @ 25 g a.i./ha and untreated control and three replications against diamondback moth two sprays of insecticide were done at 15 and 35 days after transplanting of the crop. The effect of insecticide was recorded on 3, 7, 10 and 15 days after the insecticide. The mean population of DBM after two sprays showed that Spinosad 45 SC proved to be the most effective and superior treatment, recording the lowest population of DBM (0.55 larvae/plant). The order of efficacy of insecticides was found in order T4 (Spinosad 45 SC) > T1 (Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC) > T6 Emamectin benzoate > T3 (Indoxacarb 14.5 SC) >T2 (Fipronil 5% SC) > T5 (Novaluron 10 EC) >T8 (Bt 5% WP )> T7 (Neem oil 0.15%). The untreated control recorded a maximum DBM larval population (3.35 larvae/plant). Resulting in the head yield 320.00 q/ha Spinosad 45 SC @ 100 g a.i./ha with maximum C:B ratio (1:21.31) was recorded from Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC treatment followed by Indoxacarb 14.5 SC (1:18.20).
Cabbage, DBM, Insecticides, Biopesticides, Economics
Copyright (c) 2025 Akhilesh Kumar, JK Choudhary, TK Singh, Rajesh Singh, Manju Shukla, Smita Singh, VK Singh, SK Tripathi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Enhancing growth and yield of late kharif season onion (Allium cepa L.) through natural plant growth regulators and micronutrient application
Onion is the most extensively cultivated crop used for multiple purposes, including vegetable spices and medicine. In the present study, we evaluated two plant growth regulators (PGRs), Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and Gibberellic acid (GA3), along with the micronutrient mixture containing 3% zinc, 2.5% iron, 1% manganese, 1% copper, 0.5% boron and 0.1% molybdenum chelated with EDTA. A total of 13 treatments were administered consisting of different concentrations of 100 to 200 ppm IAA, 50 to 100 ppm GA3 and 0.5 to 1.0% micronutrients. These treatments were applied either through root dipping or foliar application 30 days after transplanting (DAT). All the PGR and micronutrient treatments enhanced the onion plant growth attributes. Among all the treatments, foliar application of 200 ppm IAA and 100 ppm GA3 was found best in terms of onion bulb yield during the late Kharif season. The findings of the present study suggest that the application of 200 ppm IAA with a recommended dose of FYM and NPK will be helpful to improve onion yield during the late Kharif season and also help in maintaining onion prices from January to March in the Indian market.
Onion, plant growth regulators, micronutrients, production improvement.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hukum Singh Panwar, Ram Krishna, Lokesh Kumar Mishra, Niteshwari Baghele, Jyoti Lohare, Rishi Kumar Sharma, Nagesh Kumar Gupta (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Impact of drip irrigation scheduling and nitrogen levels on nitrogen use efficiency, phenology and soil nitrogen dynamics of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)
A field experiment was conducted at Water Technology Centre, College of Agriculture, PJTSAU, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during summer 2020-21 on “Optimization of irrigation and nitrogen levels under drip fertigation in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) during summer” 2020-21. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with Radhika hybrid (40 cm x 45 cm) and replicated thrice. The treatments comprise of three irrigation levels through drip scheduled at 0.75 Epan, 1.0 Epan and 1.25 Epan as main-plots and four nitrogen levels viz., 75 % RDN (112.5 kg N ha-1), 100 % RDN (150 kg N ha-1), 125 % RDN (187.5 kg N ha-1) and 150 % RDN (225 kg N ha-1) as sub-plots. Experimental soil was sandy clay in texture, alkaline in reaction, medium in organic carbon content, low in available nitrogen, high in available phosphorous and available potassium, respectively. The results indicated that optimized drip irrigation scheduling significantly improved NUE, with the highest efficiency observed at 1.00 Epan (I2) irrigation scheduling and 75 % RDN (N1) nitrogen level. Phenological development, including days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering, days to first and final picking was not influenced influenced by irrigation scheduling and nitrogen supply. The number of branches per plant increased with 1.00 Epan (I2) and 100 % RDN (N2) nitrogen application, contributing to higher biomass and potential yield. Soil nitrogen content varied across treatments, with initial and final measurements providing insights into nitrogen uptake and residual soil fertility.
Drip irrigation, Nitrogen levels, Phenology, Fertigation, Okra.
Copyright (c) 2025 C. Lokesh, B. Balaji Naik, M Uma Devi, M Venkateshwara Reddy (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Unravelling the crossability behavior between cultivated okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and Kasturi okra (Abelmoschus moschatus): Occurrence of somatoplastic and hybrid sterility
Crops wild relatives (CWRs) are the reservoir of various important traits including resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Introgression of YVMV and OELCV resistant gene(s) from wild relatives play crucial role to diversify the resistant gene in okra and necessities wide hybridization. Kasturi okra or Abelmoschus moschatus produced aromatic seeds and abundant in Indian sub-continent also reported as a source for YVMV and OELCV resistance. A field experiment was conducted using 3 accessions of A. esculentus and 7 accessions of kasturi okra to study the cross ability behavior through direct and reciprocal crosses. Fruit set percentage (66.00-88.00%) and average number of seeds/fruit (27.20-40.60) of the direct crosses were found to be significantly higher as compare to reciprocal crosses. Germination percentage of the direct crosses varied from 60.00-88.00%, while none of the seeds from reciprocal crosses were germinated. The accessions VRO-R-8 and IC-039308 were identified as most compatible parents for interspecific hybridization with the highest crossability index. To find out the reason for non-germination of seeds in the reciprocal crosses, growth and development of fruits and seeds thoroughly examined in the self-pollinated and crossed fruit using A. moschatus as female parent. Shriveled seed with shrunken endosperm & degenerated embryo found in the crossed fruit at 28 days after cross pollination with A. esculentus pollen which led to formation of non-viable seed. This seed failure might have arisen due to the somatoplastic sterility after interspecific hybridization. In direct crosses A. esculentus × A. moschatus all the F1 plants produced fruits without seed and signified the presence of hybrid sterility. The direct crosses of the A. esculentus × A. moschatus can be utilized in the backcross breeding after restoration of fertility through colchicine treatment.
Okra, Crossability, Somatoplastic sterility, Hybrid sterility, Disease resistance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Himanshu Singh, Pradip Karmakar, Ajeet Singh, Manish Kumar Singh (Author); A.C. Mishra (Translator); Rajeev Kumar, B.K. Singh, N. Rai (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Development of autotetraploid garlic (Allium sativum L.) through in-vitro chromosome doubling
Genetic variation is closely linked to crop improvement. Since garlic is primarily propagated vegetatively, it exhibits low genetic diversity. In this study, in-vitro colchicine treatment was used to induce polyploidy, aiming to enhance allelic variation. Shoot proliferation was optimized using different concentrations of BAP and TDZ, with 3 mg/L BAP and 0.25 mg/L TDZ showing the highest regeneration. Calli aged 21 days were subcultured and exposed to colchicine at varying levels. The results indicated that 0.05 mg/L colchicine promoted the highest survival, while higher concentrations (0.75 mg) reduced duplication due to toxicity. The LC₅₀ for colchicine was determined to be between 0.03–0.05 mg/L. The induced autotetraploids showed potential for enhanced genetic diversity in garlic. This study highlights the optimal colchicine dose for ploidy induction with minimal mortality, offering a pathway to genetic improvement in vegetatively propagated crops like garlic.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vaishnavi Jadhao, Rushikesh Tahakik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0