Introduction Soil is a living, dynamic system that provides the essential medium for plant growth and productivity. The fertility of soil determines its capacity to support agricultural production by supplying vital nutrients to crops. However, continuous cultivation, poor farming practices, and environmental degradation can lead to nutrient depletion and reduced productivity. Therefore, soil fertility management … Read more
Definition of Grafting Grafting is a horticultural technique used to propagate plants by joining parts from two different plants so that they grow as one. The upper part of one plant, called the scion, is attached to the lower part of another plant known as the rootstock or stock. The scion and rootstock must be … Read more
Introduction to Maize Cultivation Maize (Zea mays), commonly known as corn, is a staple food crop grown across the world for its versatility in food, fodder, and industrial use. It belongs to the grass family Poaceae and is considered one of the most productive cereal crops due to its high yield potential and adaptability. Maize … Read more
Greenhouses play a vital role in modern horticulture and agriculture. They create controlled environments where plants can thrive, even in unfavorable weather conditions. The structure and covering material of a greenhouse significantly impact its effectiveness. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore different types of greenhouses and their covering materials, including the details depicted in … Read more
Introduction Cucumbers are among the most widely cultivated vegetables in greenhouse settings due to their high market demand, quick growth, and prolific yield. Greenhouse cultivation of cucumbers allows for controlled environmental conditions, which leads to healthier plants, fewer pest issues, and year-round production. Whether grown for fresh markets or processing, mastering cucumber cultivation in a … Read more
Introduction Crop pests and stored grain pests are among the major constraints affecting food security and agricultural productivity across the globe. These pests damage crops in the field and cause significant post-harvest losses during storage, transport, and marketing. Field pests attack various parts of plants such as roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits, while storage … Read more
Introduction to Kharif Crops and Their Importance Kharif crops are those that are sown at the beginning of the rainy season and harvested at the end of monsoon, typically from June to October in India. These crops rely heavily on rainfall and warm temperatures, and they play a vital role in the agrarian economy of … Read more
Introduction Diseases are among the most serious threats to field and horticultural crops, leading to significant losses in yield, quality, and profitability. These diseases can be caused by a range of pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. Effective management strategies are critical to maintaining healthy crops and ensuring sustainable agricultural production. In this comprehensive … Read more
Introduction to Post Harvest Changes Post-harvest change refers to the natural physical, chemical, and biological processes that occur in fruits and vegetables after they are harvested. These changes include respiration, moisture loss, ripening, softening, color and flavor alteration, nutrient degradation, and microbial spoilage. After fruits and vegetables are harvested, they undergo a series of physical, … Read more
Introduction In plant biotechnology, two techniques have gained significant importance due to their contributions to genetic improvement and long-term preservation of plant materials: somaclonal variation and cryopreservation. Somaclonal variation refers to the genetic and phenotypic differences observed among plants regenerated from somatic cells through tissue culture. It offers a potential source of novel traits that … Read more