Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 25, 2018
Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA) application t... more Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA) application timings on various phenological and physiological aspects of seed crop of locally available onion cultivars. Therefore, current study was planned in Vegetable Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad to optimize the growth stage for GA application on seed production in two local onion cultivars (Phulkara and Dark Red) during 2013 and 2014. Application timings of gibberellins at 100 mg/L of HO were as (G) control (no spray), (G) foliar application at 2-3 leaf stage, (G) foliar application at 6-7 leaf stage, and (G) foliar application at the time of flowering. Data on average of both years showed that tallest plants (66.15 cm) and maximum number of leaves per plant (84.56) were noted in cv. Phulkara when GA was applied at 2-3 leaf stage. Minimum number of days to initiate flowering (47.92) and maximum number of umbels per plant (15.45) were noted with GA application at 6-7 leaf ...
This study investigated the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in rice. Th... more This study investigated the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in rice. The seeds of two fine aromatic rice cv. Shaheen Basmati (salt tolerant) and Basmati-2000 (salt sensitive) were soaked in aerated solutions of CaCl 2 (Ψ s =-1.25 MPa), KCl (Ψ s =-1.25 MPa), and H 2 O 2 (50 mM) each for 36 h. Seeds soaked in distilled water and non-primed seeds were taken as control for comparison. Two experiments were conducted in vitro and primed seeds were exposed to 0, 40 and 80 mM NaCl in petri dishes and sand culture during germination and emergence respectively. Priming with CaCl 2 followed by KCl were more effective in inducing salt tolerance of both rice cultivars owing to enhanced germination capacity, speed of germination, seedling length and dry weight in saline medium. Incremental salinity reduced total chlorophyll percentage (TCP) by two fold in both cultivars but higher TCP was found at all salinity levels from CaCl 2 primed raised seedlings in salt tolerant cultivar. Decreased leaf Na + accumulation and increased K + uptake were found in CaCl 2 primed seedlings at moderate salinity in both cultivars but effect was more pronounced in Shaheen Basmati. Delayed germination and seedling growth with H 2 O 2 pre-treatment indicates sensitivity of H 2 O 2 primed seeds to salts and might be the result of higher Na + uptake and less chlorophyll contents in rice seedlings. Nonetheless, enhanced germination and seedling growth, high Na + /K + exclusion indicates Shaheen Basmati tolerance to salinity than Basmati-2000 and seed priming with CaCl 2 seems more promising in induction of salinity tolerance in fine aromatic rice.
Quality seed is a prerequisite to uniform stand establishment, which contributes to higher crop y... more Quality seed is a prerequisite to uniform stand establishment, which contributes to higher crop yield. However, prevalence of poor-quality cottonseed with high moisture content due to suboptimal harvesting and postharvest practices is the primary reason for crop-stand failure in developing countries. The present study evaluated the effects of harvesting environment, drying method and storage conditions on seed quality of transgenic (FH-142) and non-transgenic (FH-942) genotypes of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivated in Pakistan. Both genotypes were picked three times at monthly intervals during the cropping season and subjected to a ginning process. Seed was then dried in the sun or with desiccant zeolite beads, and stored for 5 months in cloth or hermetic bags at room temperature or in paper bags at 10°C. The efficiency of storage systems was evaluated by estimating moisture content and germination potential periodically in the storehouse and later under field conditions. Bot...
The effects of foliar application of boron (B) in the form of boric acid on vegetative and reprod... more The effects of foliar application of boron (B) in the form of boric acid on vegetative and reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality of ‘Kinnow’ mandarin (Citrus reticulate Blanco.) were investigated. Kinnow mandarin was sprayed with different concentration of boric acid viz. (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%) at fruit set stage. Leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), B, and zinc (Zn) along with flush length, tree height, tree spread and tree trunk diameter increased, while leaf length and leaf age showed non- significant results after foliar B application. Yield of the ‘Kinnow’ mandarin was significantly affected by foliar application of B and a significant increase in fruit weight at harvest was also observed. Soluble solid concentration (SSC): titratable acidity (TA) ratio, ascorbic acid, total sugars, total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidants significantly affected, while pH of juice, SSC, TA, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars showed non- significant results.
International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2019
Seed is inevitably deteriorated during storage and higher seed moisture content is the primary ca... more Seed is inevitably deteriorated during storage and higher seed moisture content is the primary cause of this decline in seed quality. Dry Chain is a valuable tool, by using moisture proof hermetic containers to preserve seed quality throughout supply chain. This study evaluated and compared the performance of wheat and maize seed in different hermetic storage packaging (Super bag, Anaaji bag and drum) with conventionally used woven polypropylene bags after six months storage in ambient conditions. Seed moisture content was increased up to 11.53 and 13.55% in wheat and maize respectively when packed in polypropylene bags while it remained low (approximately 10 and 11.4% in wheat and maize respectively) when packed in hermetically sealed bags and drum. Germination was maintained in both cereal seeds stored in hermetically sealed Super bag, anaaji bag and drum while it reduced in polypropylene bags as compared to initial seed quality. Seed stored in polypropylene bag deteriorated quickly, which resulted in loss of seed vigour as indicated by higher malondialdehyde contents and electrical conductivity of seed leachates. It can be concluded that maintenance of seed dryness with hermetic storage is useful in preservation of seed quality and related attributes under high relative humidity environment.
Poor storage and lack of technical efficiency can result into 50–60% losses in cereal grains. In ... more Poor storage and lack of technical efficiency can result into 50–60% losses in cereal grains. In the past 30 years, most of the research investment has been made to increase the production of food crops, while only 5% research was directed toward reducing postharvest losses. Increased production of agricultural crops is necessary to ensure food security, but this will also exhaust the natural resources and is facing severe challenges of climate change and scarcity of land and water resources. Another approach is reduction of postharvest losses of cereal grains and seeds, which are mainly due to poor storage conditions as global annual food losses are amounting to 1.3 billion metric tons or enough food to feed 2 billion people. Postharvest losses reduce the quantity of agronomic crops as well as quality of seeds, which ultimately affects the economical and market value. Seed composition, moisture content, storage temperature, and relative humidity are related to seed longevity reduct...
Poor plant stand establishment is a common problem for marigold production. Exposure to seed prim... more Poor plant stand establishment is a common problem for marigold production. Exposure to seed priming is one of the strategies being used to accelerate the activation of plant growth, especially seed germination in many crops. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of different seed priming techniques on perform- ance of French marigold. For this purpose, different seed priming techniques: hydro- primng, 50 mM CaCl2, 100 mg L -1 salicylic acid and 100 mg L -1 ascorbic acid were as- sessed. Seeds without any treatment were considered as control. Priming with 50 mM CaCl2 was proved to be the most effective treatment in enhancing germination and seed- ling vigour among all other treatments including control as shown by higher final germi- nation/emergence, germination energy and lower mean germination/emergence time. Fur- thermore, positive correlation between reducing sugars and dry weight and α-amylase ac- tivity and the concentration of reducing sugars in...
Poor seed germination is a main hindrance to the commercial cultivation of Zinnia (Zinnia elegans... more Poor seed germination is a main hindrance to the commercial cultivation of Zinnia (Zinnia elegans Jacq.). Seed enhancement is a useful strategy to improve germination of major agronomic and horticultural crops. A lab study was conducted to investigate the potential of magnetic seed stimulation as a seed enhancement tool and its influence on germination and emergence capacity of zinnia. Magnetic seed treatment with 50, 100 and 150 mT strength each for 5, 10 and 15 min was compared with control (untreated). Magnetic seed stimulation reduced time to 50% germination and mean germination time and increased final germination percentage, germination energy and germination index. Root length, shoot length, seedling fresh and dry weight was also increased as a result of magnetic seed stimulation. Furthermore, magnetic field treatment also enhanced α-amylase activity, total soluble sugars and reducing sugars levels. Among all seed treatments, magnetic field with strength of 100 mT for 15 min ...
Abstract Uniform and vigorous stand establishment is one of the basic determinants for profitable... more Abstract Uniform and vigorous stand establishment is one of the basic determinants for profitable cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production to fulfill the requirement of cotton and oil industries. However, low quality seed has been a major contribution to crop stand failure. Considering the whole cotton production line, quality seed is the virtue of good harvesting and post-harvest handling practices. In cotton growing zones of developing countries, picking early in the morning during humid weather carries excessive moisture and is prone to physical quality loss during the ginning process. Furthermore, conventional drying and storage modules inept to drying cottonseed effectively and is insufficient to preserve seed from ambient relative humidity (RH) fluctuations and therefore, cottonseed lose vigour and viability during storage. Alternatively, cottonseed picked during hot and dry weather is dry enough to endure physical abrasion during ginning and also sustain physical quality deterioration during processing. Advancements in post-harvest seed handling by introducing dry chain through hermetic storage can preserve cottonseed quality. Consequently, after harvesting seed quality can be procured for subsequent planting following improved drying and storage modules that ascertain a milestone towards seed security. This review elucidates to identify risks to cottonseed quality at harvesting and post-harvesting stages and helps to adopt management strategies to cope these challenges.
Increasing salinization is a real threat to food security by diminishing the performance of glyco... more Increasing salinization is a real threat to food security by diminishing the performance of glycophyte staple crop wheat. To tackle salinity, one option is to identify and use salt-tolerant germplasm but salinity tolerance is a multigenic trait which is conferred by a large array of interacting physiological and biochemical processes. Keeping this in mind, (eighteen) physiological indices were used to appraise salt tolerance of 20 bread wheat genotypes and specifically evaluated the effect of sodium exclusion on seed yield of salt-stressed wheat genotypes in pots. Significant statistical difference was found between the genotypes, at different salinity levels for physiological, biochemical, and yield-related attributes. Under salt regime (15 dS m −1), the performance of all wheat genotypes was significantly affected as compared with those of the plants grown in control conditions (1.41 dS m −1). Among the 20 genotypes, Kharchia 65 produced maximum grain yield followed by V-03094, V-02156, LU26S, PVN, V0005, and TURACO, which was linked to lower Na + and higher K + accumulation in the leaf. Moreover, these genotypes also maintained higher K + /Na + ratios in their leaves under saline stress. Furthermore, significant increase in leaf proline content was found in all genotypes growing in salt regimes as compared with those in plants grown under non-saline conditions. Chlorophyll fluorescence such as non-photochemical chlorophyll fluorescence quenching (NPQ) and electron transport rate (ETR) were markedly higher in saline environment in all wheat genotypes as compared with those in plants grown in control. Of the 20 genotypes, V-0005 followed by V-02156, V-03094, V-04181, and PVN were found to be salt-tolerant as they showed enhanced exclusion of Na + and maintained the high K + /Na + ratio. These genotypes also showed improved plant water relations and gas exchange characteristics and less cell membrane injury. While genotypes PBW343*2, PUNJAB 85, FRET2, and TAM200/TUI were found to be salt-sensitive genotypes. Better yield was strongly linked with sodium exclusion, stable membranes, and protected oxygen-evolving complex (PS II).
Abstract In Pakistan it is dire need to explore potential sources of vegetable oil with good qual... more Abstract In Pakistan it is dire need to explore potential sources of vegetable oil with good quality. Therefore, seed yield and oil quality were explored in wild trees of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) from different locations of Punjab, Pakistan. Fifteen trees from each six locations {Rahimyar Khan (RYK), Faisalabad (FSD), Bahawalpur (BWP), Multan (MUL), Layyah (LAY) and Khanewal (KWL)} were selected. Data regarding different traits were taken for two years (2014 and 2015). Significant higher yield-related traits were observed at RYK contributing to maximum seed yield; 4.11 and 3.77 kg/tree during 2014 and 2015, respectively. Oil yield was also found maximum; 1.48 and 1.40 kg oil/tree during respective seasons in landrace of RYK. Oil-quality related traits (sterol, fatty-acid profile and oxidative-stability) were statistically similar in all landraces during both seasons. The physio-chemical characteristics were noted as: refractive index (1.4622–1.4631), saponification value (176–182 mg of KOH/g of soil), iodine value (67–71 g of I/100 g of soil) and free-fatty acids (0.41–0.49% oleic acid). Oleic-acid (ω–9) was dominant fatty acid contributing 70% to fatty-acid profile, on the other hand, polyunsaturated fatty-acids (linoleic and linolenic acid) were found in minor range (less than 1%). In sterol composition main fractions were of β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol and delta 5-avenasterol accounting to 96% of total sterols-composition while, β-sitosterol was found in high level (55%). Overall, landrace of RYK has been recognized as potential candidate for premium quality oil production for food and industrial use. Farmer can get more income by developing moringa orchards and health of local community can be improved by use of moringa oil as it is rich in health supportive fatty acids (ω–9) and sterols (β-sitosterol).
Maize grain quality is dependent on seed moisture content as high seed moisture leads to attack o... more Maize grain quality is dependent on seed moisture content as high seed moisture leads to attack of stored grain by pests and to contamination by aflatoxin. Dry Chain is an economically viable and environmentally friendly option to overcome these problems. Dry Chain implies an initial drying of a commodity to low moisture and maintaining the low moisture throughout the supply chain. The quality of maize grain was experimentally evaluated after 4 months storage at 8, 10, 12 and 14% seed moisture content (SMC) in traditional packaging materials (paper, woven polypropylene, jute and cloth) and in hermetic bags (Super Bags) at Faisalabad, Pakistan. Results revealed significant changes in moisture content of grain stored in traditional packaging materials with varying environmental relative humidity, but moisture contents remained stable and low in the hermetically-sealed bags. Grain stored in Super Bags with 8% and 10% moisture content maintained high germination (93% and 88% after 2 and 4 months storage, respectively) and high starch and crude protein content. Higher concentrations of malondialdehyde (a measure of oxidative damage) and aflatoxins were observed in seeds stored at 14% SMC in both the sealed Super Bags and traditional packaging materials. The main benefit of the hermeticallysealed bags was reduction in incidence of the lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica). Damage and storage losses caused by the borer over a period of 4 months were 10% higher in conventional storage bags. In conclusion, insect populations and associated storage losses, and deterioration of maize seed quality with respect to loss of germination, food reserves and increased aflatoxin contamination can be controlled by maintaining the Dry Chain through hermetic storage of maize grain at 8% and 10% SMCs.
Quinoa is recently introduced to Pakistan as a salt-tolerant crop of high nutritional value. Open... more Quinoa is recently introduced to Pakistan as a salt-tolerant crop of high nutritional value. Open field trials were conducted to evaluate its performance on normal and salinity/sodicity-degraded lands at two locations of different salinity/sodicity levels, S 1 (UAF Farm, Normal Soil), S 2 (Paroka Farm UAF, saline sodic), S 3 (SSRI Farm, normal) and S 4 (SSRI Farm, saline sodic) during 2013-2014. Two genotypes (Q-2 and Q-7) were grown in lines and were allowed to grow till maturity under RCBD splitplot arrangement. Maximum seed yield (3,062 kg/ha) was achieved by Q-7 at normal field (S 1) soil which was statistically similar with yield of same genotype obtained from salt-affected field S 2 (2,870 kg/ha). Furthermore, low yield was seen from both genotypes from both S 3 and S 4 as compared to S 1 and S 2. Q-7 was best under all four conditions. Minimum yield was recorded from Q-2 (1,587 kg/ha) at S 4. Q-7 had higher SOD, proline, phenolic and K + contents, and lower Na + content in leaves as compared to Q-2. High levels of antioxidants and K + /Na + of Q-7 helped to withstand salt stress and might be the cause of higher yields under both normal and salt-affected soils. Seed quality (mineral and protein) did not decrease considerably under salt-affected soils even improved seed K + , Mg 2+ and Mn 2+ .
Seed moisture content (SMC) is an important attribute to seed quality. Maintaining seed dryness t... more Seed moisture content (SMC) is an important attribute to seed quality. Maintaining seed dryness throughout supply chain (The Dry Chain) prevents seed germination and quality losses. Ambient relative humidity (RH) and temperature affect seed moisture and thereof seed moisture isotherm. Present study was conducted to compare the moisture adsorption isotherms of wheat, maize, cotton and quinoa seeds packed in hermetic Super Bag and traditional packaging materials including paper, polypropylene (PP), jute and cloth bags. Seeds were incubated at 60, 70, 80 and 90% static RH. Nearly straight line moisture isotherms for all crop seeds were obtained in Super Bag. Seed moisture contents increased in traditional packaging materials with increasing RH. At higher level of RH, moisture contents increased slightly (1-2%) in Super Bag, whereas this increase was much higher in traditional packaging materials (≈9% higher than original SMC at 90% RH). In second study, seeds were dried to 8 and 14% in...
Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 5, 2017
Wheat is staple food of region, as it contributes 60% of daily caloric intake, but its delayed so... more Wheat is staple food of region, as it contributes 60% of daily caloric intake, but its delayed sowing reduces yield due to short life span. Moringa leaf extract (MLE) is considered to improve growth and development of field crops. Study comprised of two experiments. First experiment, freshly extracted MLE and in combination with growth-promoting substances were stored at two temperature regimes. Chemical analysis, after 1, 2, and 3 months' storage period, showed that phenolics and ascorbic acid concentrations decreased with increasing storage period. Fresh extracts improved speed and spread of emergence and seedling vigor. Effectiveness of MLE in terms of phenolics and ascorbate concentrations was highest up to 1 month which decreased with prolonged storage. Growth enhancing potential of MLE also reduced with increasing storage duration. Under field conditions, the bio-efficacy of these fresh and stored MLE was compared when applied as foliar spray at tillering and booting stage...
The present study investigates the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in F... more The present study investigates the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in French marigold at early growth stage. Treatments were combination of priming techniques viz. hydropriming, halopriming (50 mM CaCl 2), hormonal priming with salicylic acid (100 ppm) and ascorbate priming (100 ppm) each for 24 h. Primed seeds were exposed to salinity levels (0; 50 and 100 mM NaCl) during germination and emergence assays. All priming treatments hastened germination and emergence attributes under saline or non-saline conditions as compared to those of non-primed (control) seeds. Seeds of French marigold primed with ascorbate followed by CaCl 2, salicylic acid and hydropriming enhanced final germination, speed of germination, root and shoot length and dry mass of French marigold seedlings. This was interpreted by minimized mean emergence time and time to 50% emergence. Additionally, it was also observed that all priming agents particularly calcium salt and ascorbate maintained ionic homeostasis in salt stressed seedlings. It is concluded that CaCl 2 , ascorbate and salicylic acid were the most effective priming agents to ameliorate the adverse effects of salinity in French marigold due to lower uptake of Na + and higher uptake of K + in the seedlings.
Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 25, 2018
Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA) application t... more Lack of scientific literature exists regarding the effects of gibberellic acid (GA) application timings on various phenological and physiological aspects of seed crop of locally available onion cultivars. Therefore, current study was planned in Vegetable Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad to optimize the growth stage for GA application on seed production in two local onion cultivars (Phulkara and Dark Red) during 2013 and 2014. Application timings of gibberellins at 100 mg/L of HO were as (G) control (no spray), (G) foliar application at 2-3 leaf stage, (G) foliar application at 6-7 leaf stage, and (G) foliar application at the time of flowering. Data on average of both years showed that tallest plants (66.15 cm) and maximum number of leaves per plant (84.56) were noted in cv. Phulkara when GA was applied at 2-3 leaf stage. Minimum number of days to initiate flowering (47.92) and maximum number of umbels per plant (15.45) were noted with GA application at 6-7 leaf ...
This study investigated the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in rice. Th... more This study investigated the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in rice. The seeds of two fine aromatic rice cv. Shaheen Basmati (salt tolerant) and Basmati-2000 (salt sensitive) were soaked in aerated solutions of CaCl 2 (Ψ s =-1.25 MPa), KCl (Ψ s =-1.25 MPa), and H 2 O 2 (50 mM) each for 36 h. Seeds soaked in distilled water and non-primed seeds were taken as control for comparison. Two experiments were conducted in vitro and primed seeds were exposed to 0, 40 and 80 mM NaCl in petri dishes and sand culture during germination and emergence respectively. Priming with CaCl 2 followed by KCl were more effective in inducing salt tolerance of both rice cultivars owing to enhanced germination capacity, speed of germination, seedling length and dry weight in saline medium. Incremental salinity reduced total chlorophyll percentage (TCP) by two fold in both cultivars but higher TCP was found at all salinity levels from CaCl 2 primed raised seedlings in salt tolerant cultivar. Decreased leaf Na + accumulation and increased K + uptake were found in CaCl 2 primed seedlings at moderate salinity in both cultivars but effect was more pronounced in Shaheen Basmati. Delayed germination and seedling growth with H 2 O 2 pre-treatment indicates sensitivity of H 2 O 2 primed seeds to salts and might be the result of higher Na + uptake and less chlorophyll contents in rice seedlings. Nonetheless, enhanced germination and seedling growth, high Na + /K + exclusion indicates Shaheen Basmati tolerance to salinity than Basmati-2000 and seed priming with CaCl 2 seems more promising in induction of salinity tolerance in fine aromatic rice.
Quality seed is a prerequisite to uniform stand establishment, which contributes to higher crop y... more Quality seed is a prerequisite to uniform stand establishment, which contributes to higher crop yield. However, prevalence of poor-quality cottonseed with high moisture content due to suboptimal harvesting and postharvest practices is the primary reason for crop-stand failure in developing countries. The present study evaluated the effects of harvesting environment, drying method and storage conditions on seed quality of transgenic (FH-142) and non-transgenic (FH-942) genotypes of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivated in Pakistan. Both genotypes were picked three times at monthly intervals during the cropping season and subjected to a ginning process. Seed was then dried in the sun or with desiccant zeolite beads, and stored for 5 months in cloth or hermetic bags at room temperature or in paper bags at 10°C. The efficiency of storage systems was evaluated by estimating moisture content and germination potential periodically in the storehouse and later under field conditions. Bot...
The effects of foliar application of boron (B) in the form of boric acid on vegetative and reprod... more The effects of foliar application of boron (B) in the form of boric acid on vegetative and reproductive growth, yield and fruit quality of ‘Kinnow’ mandarin (Citrus reticulate Blanco.) were investigated. Kinnow mandarin was sprayed with different concentration of boric acid viz. (0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%) at fruit set stage. Leaf nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), B, and zinc (Zn) along with flush length, tree height, tree spread and tree trunk diameter increased, while leaf length and leaf age showed non- significant results after foliar B application. Yield of the ‘Kinnow’ mandarin was significantly affected by foliar application of B and a significant increase in fruit weight at harvest was also observed. Soluble solid concentration (SSC): titratable acidity (TA) ratio, ascorbic acid, total sugars, total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidants significantly affected, while pH of juice, SSC, TA, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars showed non- significant results.
International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2019
Seed is inevitably deteriorated during storage and higher seed moisture content is the primary ca... more Seed is inevitably deteriorated during storage and higher seed moisture content is the primary cause of this decline in seed quality. Dry Chain is a valuable tool, by using moisture proof hermetic containers to preserve seed quality throughout supply chain. This study evaluated and compared the performance of wheat and maize seed in different hermetic storage packaging (Super bag, Anaaji bag and drum) with conventionally used woven polypropylene bags after six months storage in ambient conditions. Seed moisture content was increased up to 11.53 and 13.55% in wheat and maize respectively when packed in polypropylene bags while it remained low (approximately 10 and 11.4% in wheat and maize respectively) when packed in hermetically sealed bags and drum. Germination was maintained in both cereal seeds stored in hermetically sealed Super bag, anaaji bag and drum while it reduced in polypropylene bags as compared to initial seed quality. Seed stored in polypropylene bag deteriorated quickly, which resulted in loss of seed vigour as indicated by higher malondialdehyde contents and electrical conductivity of seed leachates. It can be concluded that maintenance of seed dryness with hermetic storage is useful in preservation of seed quality and related attributes under high relative humidity environment.
Poor storage and lack of technical efficiency can result into 50–60% losses in cereal grains. In ... more Poor storage and lack of technical efficiency can result into 50–60% losses in cereal grains. In the past 30 years, most of the research investment has been made to increase the production of food crops, while only 5% research was directed toward reducing postharvest losses. Increased production of agricultural crops is necessary to ensure food security, but this will also exhaust the natural resources and is facing severe challenges of climate change and scarcity of land and water resources. Another approach is reduction of postharvest losses of cereal grains and seeds, which are mainly due to poor storage conditions as global annual food losses are amounting to 1.3 billion metric tons or enough food to feed 2 billion people. Postharvest losses reduce the quantity of agronomic crops as well as quality of seeds, which ultimately affects the economical and market value. Seed composition, moisture content, storage temperature, and relative humidity are related to seed longevity reduct...
Poor plant stand establishment is a common problem for marigold production. Exposure to seed prim... more Poor plant stand establishment is a common problem for marigold production. Exposure to seed priming is one of the strategies being used to accelerate the activation of plant growth, especially seed germination in many crops. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to investigate the influence of different seed priming techniques on perform- ance of French marigold. For this purpose, different seed priming techniques: hydro- primng, 50 mM CaCl2, 100 mg L -1 salicylic acid and 100 mg L -1 ascorbic acid were as- sessed. Seeds without any treatment were considered as control. Priming with 50 mM CaCl2 was proved to be the most effective treatment in enhancing germination and seed- ling vigour among all other treatments including control as shown by higher final germi- nation/emergence, germination energy and lower mean germination/emergence time. Fur- thermore, positive correlation between reducing sugars and dry weight and α-amylase ac- tivity and the concentration of reducing sugars in...
Poor seed germination is a main hindrance to the commercial cultivation of Zinnia (Zinnia elegans... more Poor seed germination is a main hindrance to the commercial cultivation of Zinnia (Zinnia elegans Jacq.). Seed enhancement is a useful strategy to improve germination of major agronomic and horticultural crops. A lab study was conducted to investigate the potential of magnetic seed stimulation as a seed enhancement tool and its influence on germination and emergence capacity of zinnia. Magnetic seed treatment with 50, 100 and 150 mT strength each for 5, 10 and 15 min was compared with control (untreated). Magnetic seed stimulation reduced time to 50% germination and mean germination time and increased final germination percentage, germination energy and germination index. Root length, shoot length, seedling fresh and dry weight was also increased as a result of magnetic seed stimulation. Furthermore, magnetic field treatment also enhanced α-amylase activity, total soluble sugars and reducing sugars levels. Among all seed treatments, magnetic field with strength of 100 mT for 15 min ...
Abstract Uniform and vigorous stand establishment is one of the basic determinants for profitable... more Abstract Uniform and vigorous stand establishment is one of the basic determinants for profitable cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) production to fulfill the requirement of cotton and oil industries. However, low quality seed has been a major contribution to crop stand failure. Considering the whole cotton production line, quality seed is the virtue of good harvesting and post-harvest handling practices. In cotton growing zones of developing countries, picking early in the morning during humid weather carries excessive moisture and is prone to physical quality loss during the ginning process. Furthermore, conventional drying and storage modules inept to drying cottonseed effectively and is insufficient to preserve seed from ambient relative humidity (RH) fluctuations and therefore, cottonseed lose vigour and viability during storage. Alternatively, cottonseed picked during hot and dry weather is dry enough to endure physical abrasion during ginning and also sustain physical quality deterioration during processing. Advancements in post-harvest seed handling by introducing dry chain through hermetic storage can preserve cottonseed quality. Consequently, after harvesting seed quality can be procured for subsequent planting following improved drying and storage modules that ascertain a milestone towards seed security. This review elucidates to identify risks to cottonseed quality at harvesting and post-harvesting stages and helps to adopt management strategies to cope these challenges.
Increasing salinization is a real threat to food security by diminishing the performance of glyco... more Increasing salinization is a real threat to food security by diminishing the performance of glycophyte staple crop wheat. To tackle salinity, one option is to identify and use salt-tolerant germplasm but salinity tolerance is a multigenic trait which is conferred by a large array of interacting physiological and biochemical processes. Keeping this in mind, (eighteen) physiological indices were used to appraise salt tolerance of 20 bread wheat genotypes and specifically evaluated the effect of sodium exclusion on seed yield of salt-stressed wheat genotypes in pots. Significant statistical difference was found between the genotypes, at different salinity levels for physiological, biochemical, and yield-related attributes. Under salt regime (15 dS m −1), the performance of all wheat genotypes was significantly affected as compared with those of the plants grown in control conditions (1.41 dS m −1). Among the 20 genotypes, Kharchia 65 produced maximum grain yield followed by V-03094, V-02156, LU26S, PVN, V0005, and TURACO, which was linked to lower Na + and higher K + accumulation in the leaf. Moreover, these genotypes also maintained higher K + /Na + ratios in their leaves under saline stress. Furthermore, significant increase in leaf proline content was found in all genotypes growing in salt regimes as compared with those in plants grown under non-saline conditions. Chlorophyll fluorescence such as non-photochemical chlorophyll fluorescence quenching (NPQ) and electron transport rate (ETR) were markedly higher in saline environment in all wheat genotypes as compared with those in plants grown in control. Of the 20 genotypes, V-0005 followed by V-02156, V-03094, V-04181, and PVN were found to be salt-tolerant as they showed enhanced exclusion of Na + and maintained the high K + /Na + ratio. These genotypes also showed improved plant water relations and gas exchange characteristics and less cell membrane injury. While genotypes PBW343*2, PUNJAB 85, FRET2, and TAM200/TUI were found to be salt-sensitive genotypes. Better yield was strongly linked with sodium exclusion, stable membranes, and protected oxygen-evolving complex (PS II).
Abstract In Pakistan it is dire need to explore potential sources of vegetable oil with good qual... more Abstract In Pakistan it is dire need to explore potential sources of vegetable oil with good quality. Therefore, seed yield and oil quality were explored in wild trees of Moringa (Moringa oleifera L.) from different locations of Punjab, Pakistan. Fifteen trees from each six locations {Rahimyar Khan (RYK), Faisalabad (FSD), Bahawalpur (BWP), Multan (MUL), Layyah (LAY) and Khanewal (KWL)} were selected. Data regarding different traits were taken for two years (2014 and 2015). Significant higher yield-related traits were observed at RYK contributing to maximum seed yield; 4.11 and 3.77 kg/tree during 2014 and 2015, respectively. Oil yield was also found maximum; 1.48 and 1.40 kg oil/tree during respective seasons in landrace of RYK. Oil-quality related traits (sterol, fatty-acid profile and oxidative-stability) were statistically similar in all landraces during both seasons. The physio-chemical characteristics were noted as: refractive index (1.4622–1.4631), saponification value (176–182 mg of KOH/g of soil), iodine value (67–71 g of I/100 g of soil) and free-fatty acids (0.41–0.49% oleic acid). Oleic-acid (ω–9) was dominant fatty acid contributing 70% to fatty-acid profile, on the other hand, polyunsaturated fatty-acids (linoleic and linolenic acid) were found in minor range (less than 1%). In sterol composition main fractions were of β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, campesterol and delta 5-avenasterol accounting to 96% of total sterols-composition while, β-sitosterol was found in high level (55%). Overall, landrace of RYK has been recognized as potential candidate for premium quality oil production for food and industrial use. Farmer can get more income by developing moringa orchards and health of local community can be improved by use of moringa oil as it is rich in health supportive fatty acids (ω–9) and sterols (β-sitosterol).
Maize grain quality is dependent on seed moisture content as high seed moisture leads to attack o... more Maize grain quality is dependent on seed moisture content as high seed moisture leads to attack of stored grain by pests and to contamination by aflatoxin. Dry Chain is an economically viable and environmentally friendly option to overcome these problems. Dry Chain implies an initial drying of a commodity to low moisture and maintaining the low moisture throughout the supply chain. The quality of maize grain was experimentally evaluated after 4 months storage at 8, 10, 12 and 14% seed moisture content (SMC) in traditional packaging materials (paper, woven polypropylene, jute and cloth) and in hermetic bags (Super Bags) at Faisalabad, Pakistan. Results revealed significant changes in moisture content of grain stored in traditional packaging materials with varying environmental relative humidity, but moisture contents remained stable and low in the hermetically-sealed bags. Grain stored in Super Bags with 8% and 10% moisture content maintained high germination (93% and 88% after 2 and 4 months storage, respectively) and high starch and crude protein content. Higher concentrations of malondialdehyde (a measure of oxidative damage) and aflatoxins were observed in seeds stored at 14% SMC in both the sealed Super Bags and traditional packaging materials. The main benefit of the hermeticallysealed bags was reduction in incidence of the lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica). Damage and storage losses caused by the borer over a period of 4 months were 10% higher in conventional storage bags. In conclusion, insect populations and associated storage losses, and deterioration of maize seed quality with respect to loss of germination, food reserves and increased aflatoxin contamination can be controlled by maintaining the Dry Chain through hermetic storage of maize grain at 8% and 10% SMCs.
Quinoa is recently introduced to Pakistan as a salt-tolerant crop of high nutritional value. Open... more Quinoa is recently introduced to Pakistan as a salt-tolerant crop of high nutritional value. Open field trials were conducted to evaluate its performance on normal and salinity/sodicity-degraded lands at two locations of different salinity/sodicity levels, S 1 (UAF Farm, Normal Soil), S 2 (Paroka Farm UAF, saline sodic), S 3 (SSRI Farm, normal) and S 4 (SSRI Farm, saline sodic) during 2013-2014. Two genotypes (Q-2 and Q-7) were grown in lines and were allowed to grow till maturity under RCBD splitplot arrangement. Maximum seed yield (3,062 kg/ha) was achieved by Q-7 at normal field (S 1) soil which was statistically similar with yield of same genotype obtained from salt-affected field S 2 (2,870 kg/ha). Furthermore, low yield was seen from both genotypes from both S 3 and S 4 as compared to S 1 and S 2. Q-7 was best under all four conditions. Minimum yield was recorded from Q-2 (1,587 kg/ha) at S 4. Q-7 had higher SOD, proline, phenolic and K + contents, and lower Na + content in leaves as compared to Q-2. High levels of antioxidants and K + /Na + of Q-7 helped to withstand salt stress and might be the cause of higher yields under both normal and salt-affected soils. Seed quality (mineral and protein) did not decrease considerably under salt-affected soils even improved seed K + , Mg 2+ and Mn 2+ .
Seed moisture content (SMC) is an important attribute to seed quality. Maintaining seed dryness t... more Seed moisture content (SMC) is an important attribute to seed quality. Maintaining seed dryness throughout supply chain (The Dry Chain) prevents seed germination and quality losses. Ambient relative humidity (RH) and temperature affect seed moisture and thereof seed moisture isotherm. Present study was conducted to compare the moisture adsorption isotherms of wheat, maize, cotton and quinoa seeds packed in hermetic Super Bag and traditional packaging materials including paper, polypropylene (PP), jute and cloth bags. Seeds were incubated at 60, 70, 80 and 90% static RH. Nearly straight line moisture isotherms for all crop seeds were obtained in Super Bag. Seed moisture contents increased in traditional packaging materials with increasing RH. At higher level of RH, moisture contents increased slightly (1-2%) in Super Bag, whereas this increase was much higher in traditional packaging materials (≈9% higher than original SMC at 90% RH). In second study, seeds were dried to 8 and 14% in...
Environmental science and pollution research international, Jan 5, 2017
Wheat is staple food of region, as it contributes 60% of daily caloric intake, but its delayed so... more Wheat is staple food of region, as it contributes 60% of daily caloric intake, but its delayed sowing reduces yield due to short life span. Moringa leaf extract (MLE) is considered to improve growth and development of field crops. Study comprised of two experiments. First experiment, freshly extracted MLE and in combination with growth-promoting substances were stored at two temperature regimes. Chemical analysis, after 1, 2, and 3 months' storage period, showed that phenolics and ascorbic acid concentrations decreased with increasing storage period. Fresh extracts improved speed and spread of emergence and seedling vigor. Effectiveness of MLE in terms of phenolics and ascorbate concentrations was highest up to 1 month which decreased with prolonged storage. Growth enhancing potential of MLE also reduced with increasing storage duration. Under field conditions, the bio-efficacy of these fresh and stored MLE was compared when applied as foliar spray at tillering and booting stage...
The present study investigates the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in F... more The present study investigates the potential of seed priming for induction of salt tolerance in French marigold at early growth stage. Treatments were combination of priming techniques viz. hydropriming, halopriming (50 mM CaCl 2), hormonal priming with salicylic acid (100 ppm) and ascorbate priming (100 ppm) each for 24 h. Primed seeds were exposed to salinity levels (0; 50 and 100 mM NaCl) during germination and emergence assays. All priming treatments hastened germination and emergence attributes under saline or non-saline conditions as compared to those of non-primed (control) seeds. Seeds of French marigold primed with ascorbate followed by CaCl 2, salicylic acid and hydropriming enhanced final germination, speed of germination, root and shoot length and dry mass of French marigold seedlings. This was interpreted by minimized mean emergence time and time to 50% emergence. Additionally, it was also observed that all priming agents particularly calcium salt and ascorbate maintained ionic homeostasis in salt stressed seedlings. It is concluded that CaCl 2 , ascorbate and salicylic acid were the most effective priming agents to ameliorate the adverse effects of salinity in French marigold due to lower uptake of Na + and higher uptake of K + in the seedlings.
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