Impact of foliar application of Indole aceticacid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology

and sink capacity of pigeonpea[Caj'anus cajan (L.) Millsp.]

M.Sc.(Ag.) THESIS

by

Tekale Rameshwar Panditrao

DEPARTMENT OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE

INDIRA GANDHI AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITYRAIPUR (C.G.)

2003

Impact of foliar application of Indole aceticacid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology

and sink capacity of pigeonpea[Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]

Thesis

Submitted to the

Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur

by

Tekale Rameshwar Panditrao

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

DEGREE OF

Master of Science

In

Agriculture(PLANT PHYSIOLOGY)

Roll No. 2267 ID No. PG/AG/2001/32

SEPTEMBER, 2003

CERTIFICATE - I

This is to certify that the thesis entitled "Impact of foliar

application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on

physiology and sink capacity of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.)

Millsp.]" submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of

"Master of Science in Agriculture" of the Indira Gandhi Agricultural

University, Raipur, is a record of the bonafide research work carried out by

Tekale Ratiiesliwar Panditrao under my guidance and supervision. The

subject of the thesis has been approved by Student's Advisory Committee and

the Director of Instructions.

No part of the thesis has been submitted for any other degree or

diploma (certificate awarded etc.) or has been published/ published part has

been fully acknowledged. All the assistance and help received during the

course of the investigations have been duly acknowledged by him.

Date: 2,2.-°9 .2.0*;Advisory Committee

THESIS APPROVED BY THE STUDENT'SADVISORY COMMITTEE

Chairman : Dr. Arti Guhey

Member : Dr. M. I. Khan

Member : Dr. N. Pandey

Member : Dr. N. Khare

Member : Dr. Ravi R. Saxena

CERTIFICATE - II

This is to certify that the thesis entitled "Impact of foliar

application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on

physiology and sink capacity of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.)

Millsp.]" submitted by Tekale RantesJiwar Panditrao to the Indira Gandhi

Agricultural University, Raipur in partial fulfilment of the requirements for

the degree of M.Sc. (Ag.) in the Department of Plant physiology has been

approved by the Student's Advisory Committee after an oral examination in

collaboration with the external examiner.

^XDate: )7- 10- ̂ oo3 EXTERNAL EXAMINER

Major Advisor

Head of the Department

Director of Instructions

Research is an evolving concept. Any endeavor, in this regard ischallenging as well as exhilarating. It implies the testing of our nerves.It brings to light our patience, vigour and dedication.

Every results arrived at is modest beginning for a higher goal. Mywork in the same sprite is just a step in the ladder. It is a drop in theocean. No work can be turned as a one-man show. It needs the closecooperation of friends and colleagues and the guidance of experts inthe field to achieve something worthwhile and substantial.

With the blessings of Almighty God, I could bring this piece ofwork into light. I shall like to pen down my gratitude for all those whodirectly or indirectly helped me in completion of this work. Formal anddead words can't carry the fragrance of emotions with them; still theyare the only available means of expressing emotions in such formalacknowledgment. With a sense of high resolve and reverence, I in adeep impact of gratefulness thank to my guide Dr. Art! Guhey, Sr.Scientist, Plant physiology for invaluable inspiring guidance withinterest, research insight, unique supervision, constructive criticism andscholarly advice throughout the investigation, despite of her heavyscheduled work and preparation of this manuscript.

I owe profound debt to members of my advisory committee Dr.M. I. Khan, Professor and Head, Plant physiology for his usefulsuggestions, thoughtful assistance, forbearance and encouragementduring the course of investigation. I express my sincere gratitude to Dr.N. Pandey, Sr. Scientist, Agronomy, and Dr, IM. Khare, Sr. ScientistPlant pathology for their critical suggestion and regular encouragementand consistent field visits whenever needed from the beginning of theexperiment. I am also thankful from the bottom of heart to Dr. R.Saxena, Asst. Prof. Statistics for their critical suggestions andinvaluable guidance during the course of investigation in statisticalanalysis part.

I extend my heartiest thanks to teachers Dr. Pratibha Katiyar,Scientist Plant physiology and Dr. Ravindra Kumar, Scientist Plantphysiology for their critical suggestion and regular encouragementduring the course of investigation.

I wish to record my sincere thanks to Shri R.P. Bagai, Hon'bleVice-Chancellor, Dr. M. N. Shrivastava, Director Research Services,and Dr. A. S. R. A. S. Sastri, Daan college of Agriculture and Directorof Instruction for their help, both administration and technical whichfacilitates my research work.

I am sincerely grateful to Anil Khillare, Sanjeev Maliya, VikashKumar, Sachin sawant, Dr. Sunil Umate, Dr. Pravin Patil, Dr. PravinBainade, Dr. Atul Zope, Dr. Nischal, Dr. Pravin mishra, Dr. Rambir

singh, Dr. Pravin Jadhav, Nitin Choudhary, Anil Pawar, Kailas Dakhore,Ashok Renge, Amit Solunke (Baccha), Abhay Jadhav, Abhi Bhosle,Krishna Bhosle, Nilesh Kadam, Ramesh Dhawle, Surendra Solunke andmy seniors Deokar, Sonwane, Yerne, Tikore, Sajjad, as being aconstant source of encouragement and inspiration for providinginvaluable guidance and comments for enriching productive scientificdiscussion and above all for being an excellent human being during themost trying times in this tenure of research work.

I am thankful to Field staff. Plant physiology especially toDukalaha Ram Vishwakarma, Dinesh Yadav Dilip Nishad & SukhiRamYadav for their helpful coordination during course of investigation.

The moral support and ever ready helping nature of my friendsKishor, Datta, Nilesh, Prahalad (Raje), Shrikant, Nilesh, Kuldeep,Sharad, Subodh, Lilieshwar, Shailesh, Amol, Vilas, Sudarshan,prashant, Anil, Sachin (Mama), Krishna, Neeraj, Kirtya, Ravindra,Rupesh, Katara and all other nearer and dearer friends. I take thisopportunity to thanks them providing friendly and constructiveenvironment.

I wish to express my appreciation and thanks to my colleges G.Ingle, V. Deshmukh, S. Netam, Harish Soni and juniors Tiwari, Sharma,Rakhelkar, Narayankar, Reyes and Rena Gupta for their help renderedthrough out my studies.

Diction is not enough to express my gratitude to my belovedparents Shri. Panditrao Tekale and Gangabai Panditrao who's selflesslove, filial affection, constant encouragement, obstinate sacrifice,sincere prayers expectation and blessings have always been most vitalsource of inspiration and motivation in my life. There is no substitutefor the love and affection bestowed on me by grandfather Shri BapuraoTekale, uncle Manikrao Tekale ante Janhavi Manikrao. I feel be fittinghere to mention the name of my younger brothers sushilkumar,pravinkumar and akshaykumar and sister vaishali and pallavi for theirloving memories, which often gave me sense of relief after hours oftedious work during my research work.

Lastly, I wish to express my grateful thanks to all the teachersfrom my schooling onwards and well wishers who have directly orindirectly helped me to reach up to this level in my life.

My cordial thanks also goes to Mr. Ajay Kaushik, 'UMAP'computers'', for suggestions in preparation to this manuscript within avery short period of time.

Above all my humble and whole prostration before Almighty,Panchmukhi Hanuman for sprinkling his unprecedented favours uponme.

College of AgricultureRaipur (C.G.)

Rameshwar P. Tekale

CHAPTER-I

INTRODUCTION

1

A glance at the history of agriculture reveals that man has always

depended on plants for his existence on this planet. The period in the

development of human role during which man began cultivation of plants

marks dawn of agriculture. Since, then man has been preoccupied with the

question of productivity efficiency of plants through materialistic

adjustments. This might be responsible for the gradual exploration of the

mystery behind the growth changes. The revelation of the existence,

actively benefits of the plant growth regulators and mineral nutrients is

indeed an important milestone towards modern agriculture, and has created

a subject of great interest to plant researchers.

Sustainability has to be a dynamic concept since human needs

change continuously both in qualitative and quantitative terms. We face

many challenges in our quest to achieve sustainable food security. As

suggested by Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, Plant physiologist should help in

designing land, water and plant physiological process use strategies for

each agro-ecological area, which can help to optimise production from

cubic volume of soil and air.

Pulses constitute an important ingredient in predominantly

vegetarian Indian diet, besides rich source of protein. Pulses are also

important for sustainable agriculture enriching the soil through biological

nitrogen fixation. Pulses have a major share in country's economy,

accounting for roughly one-fifth of the total area under food grain crops and

contribute about one twelfth total food production of the country. Pulses

occupy 68.32 m ha area and contribute 57.51 m tones in world's food

basket. India shares 35.2 percent area and 27.65 percent of global

production (Anonymous, 2002).

The decreasing per capita availability of pulses from 60.79 in 1951

and 35.9 g in 2000 is of great concern in the Indian context, where the most

of the people are vegetarian. It is estimated that on the basis of food

characteristics demand system, the demand production of pulses for the

year 2005, 2010, 2015 are 20.0, 23.3 and 27.0 m tones, respectively

(Anonymous, 2002).

Among the Kharif pulses, pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) rank

first. The crop has great significance in Indian agriculture, because of its

multiple use as food, fodder, fuel and its role in sustaining agricultural

productivity. India is the single largest producer and contributes more than

90 per cent of the total world production. The national production of

pigeonpea during 1999-2000 was about 2.61 m tones, harvested from an

area of about 3.43 m ha with a meager productivity of only 760 kg ha"1.

(Anonymous, 2001). The number of pods and seeds, which develop to

maturity and average pod and seed mass, determines yield in pigeonpea.

In general possible factors which contribute to the high percentage of

abscission of flowers bonds and small pods in grain legumes include

(a) biotic and abiotic stress (b) vascular constrictions (c) deficiencies of

mineral nutrients and carbohydrate, hormone synthesis and translocation.

(Dhageefa/., 1988).

A number of worker have suggested that pigeonpea yield is limited

by assimilate supply (Thiraton er a/., 1987) while others have suggested

that inadequate size of the pod sink is the limiting factor (Toyo, 1980). A

general hypothesis of source limitation has also been reported in

mungbean, chickpea (Sinha, 1977). Factors other than source and sink

limitation also affect floral abscission and hence yield. For example

abscission of flower buds and young pods has been associated with

presence of more mature fruits of soybean and lack of fertilization does not

limit fruit set of bushbean and soybean. Increase in pod set or delay in

abscission has also reported in soybeans in response to treatment with

hormones (Carlson et a/., 1987).

Chhattisgarh, a newly born state of India having production 42.9

thousand tones with productivity 1121 kg ha"1 (Anonymous, 2003a). A

different paradigm is needed if we are to meet the emerging needs. Thus,

there is need to produce more pulses per unit area by exploiting potential

yield of pulses by manipulating/balancing source-sink relationship and all

agro-resources through skillfull development of physiological parameter

based agro technology.

Pigeonpea yield is hampered by excessive vegetative growth and

shedding of reproductive parts, poor sink potential and remobilization of

nutrients, more nutrients reserve for subsequent survivals and abscission

promoting factor (Anonymous, 2001). Its productivity is further limited due

to short phase of high crop growth rate, profuse flowering, low pod set and

leaf, flower and pod abscission followed by senescence in the post

reproductive phase (Saxena, 1984). Microclimate coupled with

physiological process may include internal hormonal imbalance and may

result in abscission of flowers and immature pods and drastic reduction in

yield. The internal hormonal imbalance can be corrected through the

exogenous application of suitable growth regulator at optimum

concentration.

Plant growth regulator can check the abscission of leaf, flower, pod

and excessive vegetative growth can be used to have a proper balance

between source and sink for increasing crop yield. It can alter its life

processes or structure in same beneficial way, so as to change yield,

quality and facilitating better harvesting. The response changes with

alterations in the environment and other physiological processes of the

plants and other growth factors. The farmers must be aware about

concentration and right stage of the crop for application of these growth

regulators to get desired results (Leopold and Kriedemann, 1975).

Boron nutrition point towards its greater requirement for seed and

grain production directly linked with process of fertilization. Apart from this

its basic physiological role in stabilizing certain constituents of cell wall and

plasma-membrane enhancement of cell division and tissue differentiation,

translocation of photoassimilates towards pod sink (Marschner, 1986).

Zinc plays an important role in the formation of tryptophan, precursor

of IAA. The micronutrients, which play an important role in plant metabolism

as well as biosynthesis of auxin that may also reduce the flower drop.

(Kocchar, 1976).

Lots of information are available on organic and inorganic nutrition of

pulses, but very scanty work has been done on foliar application of plant

growth regulators individually or combination with boron and zinc at specific

crop growth stages with respect to pigeonpea in Chhattisgarh plains.

In view of the above facts, a study entitled "Impact of foliar

application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology

and sink capacity of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)" was

undertaken during Kharif season 2002 with following objectives:

> To prevent the leaf, flower and pod abscission

> To improve the pod setting

> To accelerate the transportation of photo assimilates toward the pod

sink.

> To enhance the realisation of yield potential

CHAPTER-II

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp.] is one of the important food

crop and ranks fifth among edible legumes of the world (Salunkhe et a/.,

1986). It is having greater potentiality towards yield, but the whole potential

doesn't come into realisation. The reason of low productivity appears to be

primarily due to the poor pod setting irrespective of large number of flowers

and flower buds are produced.

During adaptation in harsh environmental condition this crop have

acquired primitive traits like excessive flower production followed by flower

drop resulting in poor pod setting and low yield. This unfortunate situation

does not allowing easy yield expansion (Anonymous, 2001).

The information available on application of growth hormone in

combination with micronutrient was very scanty. An attempt has been made

to review the available literature related to "Impact of foliar application of

Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology and sink

capacity of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp.]" under the following

suitable sub-headings.

2.1 Impact of plant growth regulator on morpho-physiological and yield

attributes

2.2 Impact of boron on morpho-physiological and yield attributes

2.3 Impact of zinc on morpho-physiological and yield attributing

2.1 Impact of plant growth regulator on morpho-physiological and

yield attributes

Mote et al. (1975) reported the application of planofix (NAA) to

prevent the abscission of flowers or fruit. The micronutrients, play an

important role in plant metabolism as well as in biosynthesis of auxins may

also reduce the flower and fruit drop in chilli.

Pande (1975) observed the requirement of NAA (Napthyl Acetic

Acid) in pigeonpea and soybean, which was different for reducing flower

abscission and increasing biomass production and seed yield. NAA is

effective when applied by spraying at less than 10 ppm at two growth

stages and in high concentration at the first growth stages.

Kaul ef a/. (1976) reported that the significant increase in grain yield

of cowpea due to application of NAA and harvest index showed direct

relationship.

Warde and Singh (1978) noted earliest fruit harvest and increase in

fruit size was recorded by spraying of NAA 10 ppm at pre flowering stage

followed by ZnSo4 0.2 % as compared to control in tomato.

According to Nickell (1978) the plant growth regulators are expected

to play an important role in rectifying the hurdles in manifestation of

biological productivity even in pulse crop.

Sharma and Shah (1979) reported the foliar application of NAA

(6.25, 12.25, and 25 ppm) increased plant height in soybean. Grain yield

was also improved with NAA (6.25 ppm) by 40 per cent, appeared to be

associated with the increase in number of seed pod"1.

Patil and Ballal (1980) reported the foliar application of plant growth

regulators or micronutrients has been reported to increase fruit set and

yield in Chilli.

Singh and Jain (1982) noted, crop growth regulators have been

employed in exploitation of plant physiological potential to maximize crop

yield in chickpea.

Swami et al. (1983) reported GAa sprayed at pre-flowering stage on

pea at 40 ppm was best in increasing plant height, early flowering, number

of pods and yield of the pea crop.

Bangla et al. (1983) reported that the application of plant growth

regulators influenced the accumulation of dry matter in chickpea in general

and the allocation pattern in particular. The plant growth regulators

increased the allocation of dry matter to the pods thereby indicating their

influence in stimulating the plant reproductive potential. They further noted

that PGR have a potential role in increasing the productivity of chickpea by

enhancing partitioning to grain yield.

Vikhe et al. (1983) noticed that pigeonpea responded to

morphological and yield attributes significantly to NAA 100 ppm spray at

flowering and twice thereafter.

Gupta (1984) noticed, the yield in pigeonpea, like in other pulse crop

is as quantitative phenomena governed by the interplay of plant genetics,

environmental factors and crop management.

Shende and Berore (1985) noticed, maximum yield of pea due to

treatment GAa 10 ppm at pre-flowering stage. Further, they observed

significant differences in LAI (leaf area index), DMP (Dry matter production)

and test weight.

Singh (1986) reported auxin are chemical messenger influencing

pattern of plant development processes like cell elongation, cell

differentiation, abscission, flower initiation, fruit set, fruit growth and also

indicated it may enhance the fruit set by thinning of excessive number of

flower.

Sarmah and Dey (1986) noticed foliar application of some growth

promoter in combination with urea or potash at 50% flowering with or

without Urea/or K. Plant height and number of branches are not affected

while number of flowers and number of pods plant"1 and seed yield were

increased. The highest yield was obtained with NAA+ urea+ potash in

soybean.

Sharma (1986) reported that the mixatol 312 ml ha"1 applied at

preflowering and fruit set, yielded maximum LAI and similar trend was also

noted for CGR and RGR and yield attributing characters like number of

pods plant"1 and number of seeds pod"1 which were significantly improved.

Reddy et a/. (1987) reported that foliar application of 2% DAP + 10

ppm NAA, or individually at flowering and pod formation stages of the crop.

The results indicated that crop growth rate, pod number and seed yield

significantly increased in pigeonpea.

Dod et al. (1989) reported that the application of 50 ppm or 100 ppm

NAA at full blooii, otage resulted in significant morphological character viz.

plant height, number of branches and yield attributes over control. None of

the foliar sprays of micronutrient viz. ZnS04, MnS04, or CuSO4 at 0.2%

concentration significantly affected the chilli yield.

Singh (1989) observed, plant growth regulators could affect the

hormonal balance in chickpea thereby improving pod setting and grain

production.

Sengupta and Sen (1989) revealed that the application of 50 ppm

NAA significantly increased the grain yield of green gram by 13.78 per cent

and 38.02 per cent over control in respective season. The pods plant"1,

grains pod"1 and dry matter production also increased significantly.

Sharma ef al. (1989) reported the maximum enhancement in growth,

yield attributing characters and yield, which was obtained with mixatol (312

ml ha"1). Spayed at "pre flowering + fruit set stage" in soybean.

Singh (1989) reported that the certain growth regulators improved

the pod setting by decreasing flower and pod abscission as a result of

altering the hormonal balance of plant in chickpea.

Sharma et al. (1989) reported, foliar application of NAA at anthesis

and 10 days after anthesis in mung bean increased the number of pods

plant"1, seeds pod"1, 1000 seed weight and gave higher seed yield over

control.

Shinde ef al. (1991) reported foliar spray of growth regulators (NAA)

with KNOa application can enhanced biological yield, leaf weight, pod

plant"1, weight of individual pod and ultimately resulted in elevating the yield

by 33 per cent in cowpea.

Prasad, (1991) noted the plant growth regulators minimise the

morphological defects viz. excessive vegetative growth, unsynchronised

flower initiation, flower shedding, immature pod and seed shattering and

thereby resulted in higher yield of oilseed and pulses.

Bhattacharya (1992) reported that the application of IAA @ 10 ppm

at flowering, (5.96g ha'1) yielded significantly higher and 13.74% more yield

over control (5.24g ha"1) which was obtained in blackgram.

Wasnik and Bagga (1992) reported that application of cycocel @ 500

ppm at the beginning of flowering in mungbean significantly increased

number of pod, seed number and grain yield.

Upadhyay et al. (1993) noticed NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) was

most effective in improving the sugar content and yields in chickpea.

Singh and Kakralya (1993) revealed that foliar spray of mixatol (2 mg

lit"1) along with foliar application of P (40 kg ha"1) at pre flowering stage

increased the seed yield and seed protein content and also improved seed

quality in terms of its storability, germinability and subsequent field

performance. The response of mixatol treatment was observed to be

modulated by better flower retention, higher seed filling setting indices and

improved dry matter accumulation in chickpea seeds.

Setia et al. (1993) reported that foliar application of NAA 50 and 100

jag ml"1 to lentil caused increase in number of branches and pods plant"1

with consequent enhancement in seed yield. It ultimately increased total dry

matter and harvest index.

Singh and Singh (1994) reported in chilli the treatments with growth

substances at vegetative and reproductive stages resulted in reduced

flower abscission percentage and yield were increased with under spray

treatments of benzyl-adenine and alpha-naphthalene acetic acid.

Gibberellic acid, etheophon, abscissic acid and ascorbic acid promoted the

flower abscission (drop) resulting in fruit yield reduction.

Upadhayay (1994) reported spraying of Kinetin at bud initiation and

pod formation stage in chickpea increased the seed yield by increasing

flower number and their retention.

Kene et al. (1995) recorded foliar application of ISA (Indole butyric

acid), GA and IAA @ 15 ppm significantly increased plant height, LAI and

seed yield in sunflower.

Rajput et al. (1996) noticed morpho-physiological attributes, which

differed significantly due to the rate and stage of plant growth promoter

application during both the years of experimentation. Cycocil @ 50 ml ha"1

and mapiquat chloride @ 1.25 lit ha"1 at flower initiation stage were

statistically at par with each other but significantly reduced plant height,

increased biomass and number of branches per plant in mustard.

Maske et al. (1998) observed in soybean GAa (Gibberellic acid) and

NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) was found effective in increasing crop

growth rate (CGR). NAR (Net Assimilation Rate), which denotes increase in

plant dry weight per unit leaf area of assimilatory tissues unit"1 time. Highest

NAR recorded by 50 ppm NAA and GAs by 125 ppm.

d.3

Deotale et al. (1998) observed significant increase in morpho-

physiological parameters of soybean due to seed soaking treatment of GAs

and NAA recorded. Highest value for plant height, number of leaves,

number of branches, leaf area, dry matter and seed yield were obtained,

with GAa and NAA treatment @ 10 ppm and 100 ppm, respectively.

Barclay and Mcdavid (1998) observed in pigeonpea application of 6-

benzylaminopurine (BA) at 2, 20, and 200 ppm sprayed during early fruit

set resulted in longer racemes with thicker stems and more axillary

branches and had more, larger fruits and leaves than did control racemes.

Total seed mass (TSM) was greatest with 20 ppm while at higher

concentration it was declined to control level.

Kumar et al. (1999) observed foliar spraying of salicylic acid (SA)

sprayed at 12, 24 and 36 days after sowing accelerated Nitrate Reductase

Activity (NRA) and enhanced the content of total soluble proteins. Number

of flowers and pods plant"1, grain yield and other attributes were also

improved in soybean.

Thiyageshwari and Ramanathan (1999) reported in soybean that the

application of cytozyme at preflowering stage (45 DAS) and micronutrients

like boron and zinc resulted in increased grain yield and dry matter

production with stover yield significantly.

The seed yield in green gram was significantly higher with NAA (40

ppm) sprayed at twice 25 and 40 DAS (days after sowing) and the increase

in yield was due to maximum number of seeds plant"1, pod length, number

of pods plant"1, pod weight, test weight and harvest index (Anonymous,

2003b).

Upadhyay (2002) noted that foliar spraying of NAA @ 20 ppm affects

significantly higher number of buds plant"1, number of flowers plant"1, pod

length, circumference of pod, number of grains pod"1, number of pods

plant"1, biological weight and test weight in chickpea.

2.2. Impact of Boron on morpho-physiological and yield attributes

Pollard era/. (1977) reported that boron is responsible for absorption

of phosphate. Boron deficient roots of corn had a reduced ATPase activity.

They supported the view that boron plays an essential role in regulation of

the functions of higher plants with polyhydroxy components of the

membranes.

Agarwala and Sharma (1979) observed boron deficiency resulted in

a marked decrease in the number of flowers. The flowers of boron deficient

chickpea plants lack pigmentation and fail to fruit setting causing reductions

in pod and seed yield.

Agarwala et al. (1981) studied boron nutrition and pointed out its

greater requirement for seed production than for vegetative growth only.

Boron is directly linked with the process of fertilization, pollen producing

capacity of anther, viability of pollen grains, pollen germination and pollen

tube growth in maize.

Marschner (1986) reported that boron not only play role in stabilizing

certain constituents of cell wall and plasma membrane, but also

J// .

15-

enhancement of cell division, tissue differentiation and metabolism of

nucleic acid, carbohydrate, protein, auxin and phenols.

Padma et al. (1989) reported that foliar application of boron and

molybdenum at 20 and 40 DAS increased plant height, number of leaves

plant"1, number of branches plant"1, tap root length, leaf area plant ~1, LAI

and dry matter production under frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

cultivation.

Kalyani et al. (1993) noticed that the boron influenced significantly

the crop growth rate and yield. Boron as boric acid @ 200, 300 and 400

ppm resulted in significant increase in plant height, growth rates (CGR and

RGR), net assimilation rate, leaf area index, crop growth and yield of

pigeonpea at all concentration studied. Maximum seed yield was obtained

at 300 ppm concentration.

Bolanos et al. (1994) examined the effect of boron deficiency on

symbiotic nitrogen fixation in pea. The absence of boron in the culture

medium resulted in a decrease of the number of nodules and alteration of

nodule development leading to an inhibition of nitrogenase activity. These

results indicated that the boron is a requirement for normal nodule

development and functionality.

Kalita and Dey (1996) performed an experiment with three varieties

of black gram (Vigna mungo) and three levels of foliar spray of boron (0.0%

0.02% and 0.03%). The results clearly indicated that there was significant

effect on leaf area index (LAI), relative growth rate (RGR), pollen

germination, number of flowers plant"1, nitrate reductase activity (NRA),

i<number of pods plant"1, seed yield plant'1, seed yield ha"1 and harvest

index.

Bhuiyan ef a/. (1997) reported that the rhizobium inoculation in

presence of boron fertilizer significantly increased the nodulation, dry matter

and nut yield of the groundnut crop. The magnitude of increase in nut yield

over control was 47 per cent for three consecutive Rabi seasons.

Guhey (1999) noticed boron application significantly increased

morpho-physiological attributes associated with yield in chickpea. It was

clearly indicated that number of branches, pod bearing nodes, seed weight,

pod weight, seed index and harvest index were also improved in chickpea.

Hemantranjan ef a/. (2000) reported foliar application of boron as

boric acid @ 50 ppm showed an increase in morpho-physiological attributes

accompanied by total dry matter production and seed yield in soybean.

Dongre ef a/. (2000) found that foliar application of boron @ 0.1%,

0.25% and 0.50% sprayed at 30 and 60 DAS enhances the yield and

quality of Chilli over control.

Ali and Mishra (2001) from Kanpur reported that foliar application of

boron and molybdenum at 50 and 60 DAS brought about significant

improvement in plant height, branches plant'1 and pods plant""1 due to their

favourable effects on plant metabolism and nitrogen fixation in chickpea.

2.3 Impact of zinc on morpho-physiological and yield attributes

Hemantranjan and Garg (1984) reported that the zinc fertilization at

9 and 12 ppm delayed the senescence of wheat through an increase in the

level of IAA, Chlorophyll contents and net assimilation rate (NAR) in leaves

and increased the total dry matter content and grain yield in wheat.

Puste and Jana (1988) studied the effect of different levels of zinc (0,

10 and 20 kg ZnSCVha) on the crop growth pattern in pigeonpea. It was

found that application of zinc at 20 kg ZnSOVha greatly influenced the leaf

area index, dry matter accumulation in leaf, stem, pod and crop growth rate

of pigeonpea. Growth parameters were increased significantly by the

application of zinc with magnitude 20kg/ha.

Sarkar and Aery (1990) studied the effect of different concentrations

of zinc on various growth parameters of soybean. Lower concentrations

(<10ug~1) were found promoter whereas, the higher concentrations

(>10ug~1) were found inhibitory for growth and nodulation.

Ravichandran et a/. (1995) studied the effect of zinc on yield and

quality of brinjal. The results revealed that 0.05 % zinc foliar spray 30 days

after transplanting (DAT) recorded highest fruit yield, number of fruits

plant"1, dry matter production and plant height.

Rathinvel et a/. (1999) reported that foliar application of zinc sulphate

0.5 % at 90 and 110 days after sowing (DAS) resulted significantly higher

yield attributing characters in cotton. The number of sympodia plant'1,

number of bolls plant"1, boll weight, and seed weight and number of seeds

boll"1 was significantly higher as compared to control.

Umamaheshawari and Singh (2002) observed the application of

ZnSo4 @ 5 kg ha~1 increased the yield and yield attributes significantly over

control. Number of seeds pods"1 increased with the increase in 1000-grain

weight in frenchbean.

Pathak and Pal (2003) noticed that application of verifying levels of

zinc affects the growth and yield characters. Harvest index (HI), number of

seeds plant"1 and seed yield was improved by the application of zinc

particularly 20 kg ha ~1.

19

CHAPTER-III

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This chapter deals with the concise description of materials used and

methods adopted during the course of investigation entitled "Impact of

foliar application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on

physiology and sink capacity of pigeonpea [Cajanus Cajan (L)

Millsp.]".

3.1 Experimental site

Field experiment was carried out during Kharif season 2002-03, at

the Instructional Farm, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur

(Chhattisgarh).

3.2 Geographical situation

Raipur is situated in the Southeastern part of Chhattisgarh and lies

at 21° 16° N latitude and 81° 36°' E longitude with an altitude of 298.6 m

above the mean sea level (MSL).

3.3 Climate

Raipur, the place of investigation comes under dry moist, sub humid

region. The region receives 1200-1400 mm rainfall annually, out of which

about 88 per cent was received during the rainy season (June to

September) and about 12 per cent during winter season (October to

February). May was the hottest and December was the coolest month of

the year. The rainfall pattern has greatest variations during rainy season

from year to year. The more temperature during the summer months

reaches as high as 44.6 °C and the mercury drops to as 6.6 °C during

December-January.

3.4 Weather Condition

Weather data recorded during the period of investigation were

shown in Table 3.1. The data revealed that total rainfall received during

crop growth period (15th July to 15th February) was 697.68 mm.

The mean maximum temperature for different months varied from

39.6 °C to 26.4 °C while monthly mean minimum temperature varied

between 27.2 °C to 6.6 °C.

The maximum relative humidity throughout the crop growth period

varied between 94 per cent. In the second week of August to 72 per cent in

the first week of July while, the minimum relative humidity varied between

89 per cent in the second week of August to 20 per cent in the third week of

January.

3.5 Physico-chemical Properties of Soil

The physico-chemical properties of the experimental soil are

presented in Table 3.1. The soil of the experimental field was clay in nature,

(vertisol) locally known as 'Kanhar" (Bharri) soil. The soil was neutral in

reaction. It had low nitrogen, medium phosphorus and high potash content.

Table 3.1: Physico-chemical properties of soil

ParticularsA] Physical Properties

1. MechanicalcompositionCoarse sand (%)

Fine sand (%)

Silt (%)

Clay (%)

Textural class

2. Field capacity (%)

3. Permanent wilting Point(%)

4. Water holding capacity(%)

5. Bulk density (mg m"3)

B] Chemical properties1. Available N (kgha'1)

2. Available P kgha"1

3. Available K kgha"1

4. pH (1:2.5 Soil: water)

5. EC (dsrrf1 at 25UC)

Values

5.31

14.93

35.43

43.12

32.15

16.38

37.57

1.42

218

12.55

365.33

7.10

0.15

Rating

Vertisol

Low

Med.

High

Neutral

Normal

Method usedInternationalPipette method,(Black, 1965)

"

. " .

Pressure plateapparatus method(Black, 1965)Pressure plateapparatus method(Black, 1965)Pressure plateapparatus method(Black, 1965)Soil core method(Bodman, 1942)Alkalinepermanent method(Subbaiah andAsija, 1956)Oslen's method(Oslen, 1954)Flame photometricmethod (Jackson,1967)Glass electrode pHmeter (Pipper,1967)Solubridge method(Black, 1965)

In order to evaluate the nutrient status of the soil, the samples were

taken randomly from the experimental field up to 30 cm depth with the help

of the soil augur and a composite sample was made for mechanical and

chemical analysis.

3.6 Cropping history of the field

The cropping history of the field for the past five year and during the

year of investigation is given in Table 3.2

It is obvious from the data experimental field consisted of pulse crop

in Kharif season followed by wheat in Rabi. The crops are grown with

uniform dose of fertilizers in the post years. Thus it could be said that the

fertility status of the experimental field was uniform during the present

investigation.

Table 3.2 : Cropping history of experimental field

Year

1996-1997

1997-1998

1998-1999

1999-2000

2000-2001

2001-2002

Kharif

Crop

B. Gram

Pigeonpea

Soybean

Pigeonpea

B. Gram

Pigeonpea

Fertilizer

N P K

20:50: 30

20:50: 30

20:50: 30

20:50: 30

20:50: 30

20:50: 30

Rabi

Crop

Wheat

Wheat

Wheat

Wheat

Wheat

Wheat

Fertilizer

N P K

120:60:60

-

120:60:60

120:60: 60

120:60: 60

120:60: 60

Zaid

Crop

-

-

-

-

-

-

Fertilizer

N PK

-

-

-

-

-

-

3.7 Chemicals, Treatment details and layout

3.7.1 Chemicals used

1] Indole acetic acid - 0.04 % (400ppm).

2] Boric acid - 0.03 % (300 ppm).

3] Zinc sulphate - 0.02 % (200 ppm).

These chemicals were used in the present investigation.

•j J

22-

3.7.2 Preparation of solution

For the preparation of 1 litre of concentration of IAA one litre of

0.04% weight of 4.0 gm of, IAA was taken and dissolved in some quantity of

alcohol and volume of that solution was made 1 litre. In the same way

solutions of boron and zinc was prepared by taking 3.0 and 2.0 gm of the

material and dissolved in distilled water and finally volume was made 1 litre

by required quantity of distilled water.

3.7.3 Treatment details

Table 3.3 Details of treatment combinations "••

Notation

TT

T2

T3

T4

T5

T6

T7

Treatment Detail

Control

lAA+boron+zinc

lAA+boron+zinc

lAA+boron+zinc

at Flower Initiation (Fl)

at Pod Initiation (PI)

at Fl and PI both stages

IAA only at Fl and PI stages

Boron+zinc at Fl and PI stages

IAA at flower initiation and boron+zinc at pod initiation

3.7.4 Layout

Design - Randomised Block Design (RED)

Date of Sowing - 15-07-2002.

Spacing - 50 x 15cm.

Date of Harvesting-10-02-2003.

Treatments - Seven

Replications - Three

Gross plot Size - 4.0 x 3.0m.

Crop- Pigeonpea

Variety-ICPL-87-119

(Asha)

2.3

3.8 Experimental techniques

3.8.1 Field preparation

The preparation of the field was done in such a way that the soil

must attain good tilth, until soil becomes loose, friable and have a good

aeration. The field was prepared with cross-wise ploughing followed by

harrowing and clod crushing. After the pulverisation of soil, finally field was

levelled with planker and experiment was marked out.

3.8.2 Seed material

The seeds of variety Asha (ICPL-87-119) were obtained from IIPR,

Kanpur.

3.8.3 Seed treatment and sowing

Seeds were sown at optimum moisture condition by seed drill

method, keeping row-to-row spacing 50 cm and plant-to-plant 10-15 cm.

Before sowing, seeds were treated with Thirum @ 2 g kg"1 of seed.

3.8.4 Fertilizer application

The fertilizers were applied at the rate of 20: 30: 50 NPK kg ha"1 in

the form of urea, SSP and murate of potash, as basal dose. The required

amount of fertilizers were weighed for each plot and drilled at the time of

sowing.

3.8.5 Gap filling and thinning

There was no gap in the field at all but to avoid overcrowding of

plants, thinning was done and distance 50 x 15 cm was maintained on 10th

day after sowing.

3.8.6 Plant protection measures

At the early crop growth stage, due to heavy rains there was attack

of fungus Phytopthora spp., copper-oxi-chloride (COC) was sprayed @

2.5gm/lit. For insect pest Thiodan and Endosulfon was sprayed as per

recommendations, whenever needed.

3.8.7 Harvesting

Harvesting of pigeonpea was done manually with the help of sickle.

Pigeonpea crop was harvested at physiological maturity as suggested by

Singh et a/., (1987). Crop was threshed after sun drying and m2 yield, and

plot basis was recorded on per.

3.8.8 Cultural Schedule

The details of the cultural operations adopted in the experimental

plot from preparatory tillage to harvesting are given in Table 3.4

3.9 Observation schedule

In the present investigation observations were taken at different crop

growth stages. In order to get representative sample, five plants were

tagged from each plot for the purpose of phenological observations and

three representative plants were selected for the purpose of growth

analysis at each stage of crop.

3.9.1. Plant population

To acquire the accuracy in plant stand, population was recorded in

field condition. Plant population was recorded on 6th, 8th and 10th day after

sowing, to ensure an optimum plant/crop stand.

Table 3.4: Cultural schedule

Sr.No.

Cultural ScheduleImplement used /

methodDate

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

Cross wise ploughing

Cross wise Harrowing andlevelling

Soil sampling

Layout and field channelpreparation

Seed treatment and sowing

Thinning and gap filling

Weeding

Spraying of COC (Copper- oxi-chloride) @ 2.5g lit"1

Spraying of COC (Copper- oxiChloride) @ 2.5g lit'1

Dusting of 10% BHC

Irrigation

Spraying of Endosulfan 35EC31.5ml in 42 lit

Weeding

Spraying of Endosulfan 31.5mlin 42 lit

Irrigation

Spraying of Thiodan 31.5ml in42 lit

Harvesting

Threshing and winnowing

M. B. Plough

Disk harrowplanker

Soil auger

Steel tape manual

Drilling

Manual

Manual

Knapsack Sprayer

Knapsack Sprayer

Manual

Flood irrigation

Knapsack Sprayer

Manual

Knapsack Sprayer

Flood irrigation

Knapsack Sprayer

Manual

Manual

01-07-2002

04-07-2002

07-07-2002

12-07-2002

15-07-2002

25-07-2002

05-08-2002

29-08-2002

20-09-2002

28-09-2002

10-10-2002

15-10-2002

25-10-2002

10-11-2002

18-12-2002

15-01-2003

15-02-2003

25-02-2003

25*

3.9.2 Phenology

For keen observation from each plot five plants were tagged and

their phenological observations were recorded for

1] Days to flower initiation on whole plot basis

2] Days to pod initiation on whole plot basis

3] Days to 50 % flowering on whole plot basis

4] Days to 50 % Podding on whole plot basis

5] Days to maturity on whole plot basis

3.9.2.1 Days to flower initiation, pod initiation, 50 % flowering, and

50% podding, maturity

Days from sowing to first flower, first pod, 50% flowering, 50%

podding and 90 % physiologically matured pods were observed and noted.

3.9.3 Morphological parameter

3.9.3.1 Plant height

Mean plant height was recorded in (cm) from the base of the stem to

the apex of the main stem. Observations were recorded at vegetative, 50 %

flowering, 50 % podding and maturity.

3.9.3.2 Pod-bearing length

From the base of the stem, the length between first podding branch,

to the apex of the stem was known as pod bearing length and was

measured in (cm) at 50 % podding maturity.

3.9.3.3 Upper, middle, lower region of pod-bearing length

The pod-bearing length was measured and divided into three equal

parts. The length from apex towards base of upper division was known as

upper length and the length below the upper division was known as middle

length, the region below the middle region was referred, as lower length of

total pod bearing length.

This concept of pod bearing length can be well discussed with the

help of Fig. 3.3.

3.9.3.4 Dry weight of leaves, stem and root plant"1

Dry weight of different plant parts, it was kept in oven at 80°C for

complete drying then reading was taken with the help of electronic balance.

3.9.3.5 Number of branches in upper, middle and lower region of pod

bearing length plant"1 and total number of branches plant"1

After division of pod bearing length, branches were recorded in each

part of pod bearing length separately i.e. upper, middle and lower and total

number of branches was calculated by adding the branches present in

upper, middle and lower part of pod bearing length.

3.9.3.6 Number of pods in upper, middle and lower region of pod

bearing length plant"1 and total number of pods plant"1

After division of pod bearing length pods were recorded in each part

of pod bearing length separately viz., upper, middle and lower and total

numbers of pods were calculated by adding the pods present in upper,

middle and lower part of pod bearing length.

3.9.4 Growth Analysis

The data of growth characters viz. fresh and dry weight of different

plant parts were further analysed to work out CGR (Crop Growth Rate) and

RGR (Relative Growth Rate).

Fig: - 3.3 Division of Pod bearing length

pngth

Totalpodbearinglength

3.9.4.1 Crop growth rate (CGR)

Crop growth rate was the total gain in the weight by a plant within a

specific time interval. It is expressed in g plant"1 day""1. CGR was calculated

by following formula given by Richards (1969).

W2-WiCrop growth rate (g plant day ) =

t2-ti

Where,

Wi = Total dry weight of plant at time ti

W2 = Total dry weight of plant at time t2

T-I = Initial time of observation

T2 = Final time of observation

3.9.4.2 Relative Growth Rate (RGR)

Relative growth rate was the increase in plant material unit~1 of time

in relation to initial weight. It was calculated by the formula given by Fisher

(1921) and expressed in g g ~1 plant"1 day"1.

In w2 - In wiRelative growth rate (g g ~1 plant 1 day 1) =

Where,

Wi = Total dry weight of plant at time ti

w2 = Total dry weight of plant at time {

ti = Initial time of observation

t2 = Final time of observation

•t2-ti

3.9.5 Yield attributes

3.9.5.1 Number of pods in upper, middle and lower length and total

number of pods plant"1

The number of pods present in upper, middle and lower length were

detached separately and recorded by adding these, total number of pods

were calculated.

3.9.5.2 Pod length plant'1

Pod length of each five representative pods was measured and

recorded.

3.9.5.3 Pod weight plant"1

Pods of an individual plant were detached separately and pod weight

was recorded.

3.9.5.4 Number of seeds Pod"1

The number of seeds per pod was noted by referring five

representative pods.

3.9.5.5 Number of seeds plant"1

Each representative plants were harvested and threshed separately

and the total number of seeds were recorded.

3.9.5.6 Seed yield per plant"1

The representative samples harvested and threshed separately and

their seed weight was measured and recorded.

3.9.5.7 Seed yield hectare"1

Each individual plot was harvested separately and threshed; from

the seed yield of plot the seed yield ha"1 was calculated.

3.9.5.8 Seed Index

Seed index was calculated by weighing 100 seed weight (gm).

3.9.5.9 Harvest index

The harvest index was determined from the mean value of seed

yield and biological yield per plant of representative samples using formula

given by Donald (1962).

Harvest index (%) =Economical yield

X100Biological yield

3.9.6 Statistical Analysis

Experimental data were analysed statistically adopting the technique

of variance (ANOVA) for a randomised block design (RBD). The level of the

significance of the treatment mean square at 5% probability was tested with

'F' test value, using the significant differences of the treatment means.

(Gomez and Gomez, 1976).

CHAPTER IV

RESULTS

The experiment entitled "Impact of foliar application of Indole

acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology and sink capacity of

pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (I.) Millsp.]" was conducted during Kharif

2002. With a view to study the effectiveness of foliar application of IAA,

boron and zinc on realization of potential yield in pigeonpea.

Data recorded on various aspects during the investigations are

briefly described in this chapter. The results are given in appropriate tables

and figures for the reference. Significant as well as non-significant findings

have been interpreted and presented to clarify the effect of IAA, boron and

zinc on pigeonpea.

4.1 Morphological studies

4.1.1 Plant population

The data on plant population are presented in Table 4.1.

The plant population of pigeonpea was noticed at 6th, 8th and 10th

DAS was statistically similar as well as homogenous in all the observations.

As the all treatment were given after attaining the flowering stage, therefore

it was found non-significant.

Table 4.1: Plant population in different treatments

Treatments

T-i: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn at Fl

T3: IAA + B+Zn at PI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn at both stages

T5: IAA at both stages

Te: B+Zn at both stages

T7: IAA at Fl & B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Plant population

6th day55.87

54.76

52.92

55.53

56.95

56.5

53.5

1.55

NS

8th day73.70

73.02

74.97

74.69

73.15

76.24

76.93

1.01

NS

10th day91.05

91.18

91.22

91.82

91.99

89.33

91.29

1.64

NS

4.1.2 Phenological Parameter

The data on phenological parameters are presented in Table 4.2.

Table 4.2 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on phenological parameters

Treatment

T-i: Control

T2: IAA + B+ZnatFI

T3: IAA + B+Znat PI

T4: lAA+B+Znat both stages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl &B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Flowerinitiation(Days)

83

82

82

82

82

82

83

0.74

NS

PodInitiation

(Days)94

95

94

95

98

97.66

95

2.02

NS

50%Flowering

(Days)95

98

95

100

99

95

94.33

1.49

4.56

50%podding(Days)

111

116

108

111

109

119

110.67

1.153.54

Matu-rity

(Days)180

182

181

185

183

182

182

1.19

3.67

It was clearly indicated from the data, there was no significant impact

of treatment on days to flower and pod initiation. While 50% flowering, pod

filling and final maturity was significantly delayed in all the treatments over

the control. The maximum postponement in 50% flowering, pod filling and

maturity were noticed in T5, T6 and T4 treatments respectively.

4.1.3 Plant height (cm)

The data on plant height was recorded at 45th, 90th, 125th and 180th

days after sowing (DAS) and shown in table 4.3 and illustrated in fig. 4 A.

Table 4.3 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on plant height at variouscrop growth stages

Treatment

TI: Control

T2: IAA + B+ZnatFI

T3: IAA + B+Znat PI

T4: lAA+B+Znat both stage

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl &B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

StagesVegetative

stage(45 Days)

73.89

75.00

75.67

74.19

75.47

75.47

74.29

0.69

NS

50%flowering(90 Days)

113.33

122.66

129.11

128.27

128.66

123.33

125.22

5.57

12.13

50%podding

(125 Days)118.44

138.67

136.22

139.05

135.33

128.43

131.99

3.27

10.10

Maturity(180 Days)

121.77

144.83

136.37

149.37

140.98

134.12

135.04

5.39

16.63

Data presented in Table 4.3 revealed that plant height was increased

vigorously up to 90 days and there after some what slow up to maturity.

The differences amongst treatment were significant at all the stages except

45 DAS stage.

The treatment ~T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both stages) recorded the

highest value for plant height and it was at par with other treatments except

control.

4.1.4 Pod bearing length (cm)

The data on pod bearing length are presented in Table 4.4 and

illustrated in Fig. 4 B.

Table 4.4 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on Pod bearing length atvarious crop growth stages (cm)

Treatment

T-i: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn at Fl

J3: IAA + B+Zn at PI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn at both stages

T5: IAA at both stages

T6: B+Zn at both stages

T7: IAA at Fl & B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Stages

50 % podding

54.24

76.66

76.10

79.74

75.23

75.79

75.88

1.07

3.30

Maturity

71.55

77.71

75.05

83.62

76.63

82.88

77.33

2.19

6.76

Regarding this trait significant differences were existed in all

treatments applied over the control. At maturity and 50% pod filling stage

treatment T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both stages) exhibited the highest value

for pod bearing length as compared to control and it was at par to that of

Fig 4.1: Control treatment (T,) at 50 % podding

Fig 4.2: T2 - (lAA+boron+zinc at FI) Fig 4.3: T3 - (lAA+boron+zinc at PI)at 50 % podding at 50 % podding

Fig 4.4: T4 - (I AA+boron+zinc at both stages)at 50% podding

Fig 4.5: T5 - (IAA at both stages) at 50 % podding

Fig 4.6: T6 - (Boron+zinc at both stages) at 50 % podding

Fig 4.7: T7 - (IAA at FI and Boron+zinc at PI) at 50 % podding

treatment T2 (IAA+ boron + zinc at Fl), T6 (Boron + zinc at both stages) and

~[j (IAA at flower initiation and boron + zinc at Pod initiation).

4.1.5 Number of branches in upper, middle and lower region of pod

bearing length and total number of branches plant"1

Data on number of branches in each pod bearing length and total

number of branches is given in Table 4.5 and illustrated in Fig. 4 C and 4 D.

Data presented in Table 4.6 indicated that the total number of

branches plant"1 varied significantly at 135 and 180 DAS. The maximum

total numbers of branches were in treatment T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both

stages) and showed the highest value as compared to control and it was at

par with treatment T2 (lAA+boron+zinc at Fl) and T6 (Boron+zinc at both

stages).

It was interesting to note that out of the total branches, lower part of

pod bearing length beard more number productive branches as compared

to upper and middle.

4.1.6 leaf dry weight plant"1

The data on leaf dry matter plant"1 are presented in Table 4.6 and

illustrated in Fig. 4 E.

From the data it has been clarified that there is increase in total leaf

dry weight plant"1 at 50% flowering and later phases it started to decline. At

vegetative and 50% flowering there was non-significant difference, during

later stages it exhibited significant differences. The highest leaf dry matter

was observed at both stages in T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both stages) 6.34 g

plant"1 at 50% podding and 4.36 g plant"1 at maturity followed by T2 at both

stages 5.58 g plant"1 and 3.47 gplant"1.

Least effect on dry matter accumulation in leaf had been seen in Ti•

(control) 3.89 g plant"1 at 50% podding and 1.07 g plant"1 at maturity.

Table 4.6 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on leaf dry weight plant"1 atdifferent crop growth stages

Treatment

T-I: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn atFl

T3: IAA + B+Zn atPI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn atboth stages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl &B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

StagesVegetative

stage(45 Days)

2.79

2.67

2.75

2.61

2.72

2.66

2.75

0.06

NS

50%flowering(90 Days)

6.16

6.62

6.22

8.54

6.73

6.86

7.69

0.82

NS

50%podding

(125 Days)

3.89

5.58

4.74

6.80

4.91

4.60

5.37

0.49

1.51

Maturity(180 Days)

1.07

3.47

2.59

4.36

3.19

1.82

2.19

0.20

0.63

4.1.7 Stem dry weight plant"1

The data on stem dry matter plant"1 are presented in Table 4.7 and

illustrated in Fig. 4 F.

Significant increment in stem dry matter was observed only after

50% flowering stage of the crop in all the treatments and maximum stem

dry matter was accumulated in T4 (24.14 g plant"1) followed by T2 (22.58

plant"1) at 50% podding.

At maturity, maximum stem dry matter was accumulated in T4 (IAA +

boron + zinc at both stage (40.07 g plant"1) followed by T2 (37.34 g plant"1).

Minimum stem dry matter was accumulated in T-i at 50% podding

(20.01 g plant"1) as well as at maturity (31.54 g plant"1).

Table 4.7 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on total dry matter (g plant"1)at different crop growth stages

Treatment

T-i: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn atFl

T3: IAA + B+Zn atPI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn atboth stages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl &B+Zn at PI

SEm+CD at 5%

Stage

Vegetativestage

(45 Days)3.53

3.83

3.88

3.83

3.86

3.89

3.84

0.13NS

50%flowering(90 Days)

14.73

15.87

14.44

18.33

17.65

14.83

15.65

2.11NS

50%podding

(125 Days)20.01

22.58

20.53

24.12

22.23

21.26

21.61

0.682.11

Maturity(180 Days)

31.54

37.34

35.09

40.07

35.76

33.10

34.47

0.341.05

4.1.8: Root dry matter plant"1

The data on root dry matter plant"1 are presented in Table 4.8 and

illustrated in Fig. G.

The root dry matter accumulation showed that consistent increase

upto maturity. Data showed non-significant findings at vegetative and 50%

flowering stage of crop.

At 50% podding and at maturity T4 showed maximum dry matter

accumulation (3.64 g plant"1 at 50% podding and 4.89 g plant"1 at maturity).

Least impact was noted in control as compared to other treatments

at 50% podding (2.57 g plant"1) and (2.99 g plant"1) at maturity.

Table 4.8: Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on root dry matter (g plant"1) atdifferent crop growth stages

Treatment

T-i: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn at Fl

T3: IAA + B+Zn at PI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn atboth stages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl & B+Znat PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Stage

Vegetativestage

(45 Days)

1.24

1.15

1.15

1.21

1.23

1.16

1.19

0.02

NS

50%flowering(90 Days)

2.34

2.76

2.08

2.44

2.64

2.81

2.41

0.29

NS

50%podding

(125 Days)

2.57

3.67

2.43

3.64

2.86

2.44

2.73

0.13

0.40

Maturity(180 Days)

2.99

4.52

4.68

4.89

3.71

3.56

3.57

0.09

0.28

4.1.9 Total dry matter plant"1

The effects of various treatments on the total dry matter content of

plant are presented in Table 4.9 and illustrated in Fig. 4 H.

Table 4.9 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on total dry matter content(g plant"1) at different crop growth stages

Treatment

TI: Control

T2: IAA + B+ZnatFI

T3: IAA + B+Znat PI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn atboth stages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl & B+Znat PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Stage

Vegetativestage

(45 Days)

7.61

7.64

7.70

7.71

7.63

7.74

7.78

0.14

NS

50%flowering(90 Days)

23.22

25.25

28.83

22.74

29.27

24.37

24.93

3.05

NS

50%podding

(125 Days)

49.49

59.14

55.26

63.58

51.46

53.32

54.38

2.67

8.22

Maturity(180 Days)

54.76

74.23

66.93

80.53

71.01

58.57

58.65

2.68

8.27

It was clear from the data that total dry matter was increased up to

the maturity of the crop.

It has been showed that all treatment had no significant effect on

vegetative and 50% flowering stage, while during later phases it turned $o

show significant impact.

Dry matter was increased in all the treatments during vegetative to

50% flowering stage although it was non-significant while significant impact

on total dry matter accumulation has been observed at 50% podding and

maturity. The maximum dry matter accumulation had been observed in

(T4- IAA + boron + zinc at both stages) (63.58 g plant"1) at PF and (80.53 g

plant"1) maturity and it was at par with treatment T2 (IAA + boron + zinc at

flower initiation) (59.14 g plant'1) at 50% podding and (74.23 g plant'1) at

maturity.

Least impact was observed at 50% podding (49.49 g plant"1) and

maturity (54.76 g plant"1) in (T-i) control.

4.2 Physiological observations

4.2.1 Crop growth rate (CGR) (g plant'1 day'1)

The data on crop growth rate are presented in Table 4.10 and

illustrated in Fig. 4 I.

Table 4.10: Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on crop growth rate (CGR) (gplant"1 day"1)

Treatment

TI: Control

T2: IAA + B+ZnatFI

T3: IAA + B+Znat PI

T4: lAA+B+Znat bothstages

T5: IAA at bothstages

T6: B+Zn at bothstages

T7: IAA at Fl &B+Zrrat PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Days interval

(0-45 Days)

0.170

0.172

0.172

0.172

0.173

0.174

0.170

0.019

NS

(45-90 Days)

0.315

0.322

0.298

0.319

0.320

0.313

0.315

0.014

NS

(90-125Days)

1.347

1.861

1.395

2.451

1.687

1.489

1.597

0.150

0.470

(125-180Days)

0.128

0.439

0.359

0.465

0.215

0.196

0.160

0.032

0.100

The data on crop growth rate showed significant impact during later

phases. Differences in CGR were significant in 110-125 & 125 - 180 days

interval. Highest value for CGR had been observed in T4 (at 50% Flowering

to 50 % podding (2.451 g plant'1 day"1) and marking at Maturity (0.465 g

plant'1 day"1).

Least impact was noted in T-i (1.347 g plant"1 day"1) in 90-125 and

0.128 (g plant"1 day"1) in 125-180 days interval.

4.2.2 Relative Growth rate

The data on relative growth rate are presented in Table 4.11 and

illustrated in Fig. 4 J.

Table 4.11 : Impact of IAA, boron and zinc on Relative Growth Rate(RGR) (g g"1 plant"1 day"1)

Treatment

TI: Control

T2: IAA + B+Zn at Fl

T3: IAA + B+Zn at PI

T4: IAA +B+ Zn at both stages

T5: IAA at both stages

Te: B+Zn at both stages

T7: IAA at Fl & B+Zn at PI

SEm+

CD at 5%

Days interval

(45-90)

0.0168

0.0173

0.0164

0.0143

0.0166

0.0139

0.0137

0.0024

NS

(90-125)

0.044

0.045

0.044

0.070

0.051

0.051

0.049

0.006

0.0013

(125-180)

0.0036

0.0047

0.0044

0.0061

0.0043

0.0049

0.0039

0.0014

0.0031

The data revealed that a non-significant trend at 45-110 days

interval. But it increased during 110-125 and 125-180 days interval. During

42.

the crop period (T4) showed the highest value(0.070 in 110-125 and

0.0061 g g"1 plant"1 day"1. Among all the treatments RGR has not showed

any consistent trend during the crop growth stages.

4.3 Yield attributes

Data on yield attributes viz. number of pods plant"1, Pod length

plant"1, Pod weight plant"1, number of seeds pod"1, number of seeds plant"1,

seed index, seed yield plant"1, seed yield ha"1, and harvest index are

presented in Table 4.12 and able 4.13.

4.3.1 Number of pods in upper, middle and lower pods and total

number of pods in pod bearing length plant"1

The data on number of pods and pods in upper, middle and lower

portion of pod bearing length plant'1 are presented in Table 4.12.

Data showed among the treatments, all the treatments differed and

significantly in pods at 50% podding and maturity. T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at

both stages) favoured the highest number of pods at 50% podding and

maturity (84.36 and 106.73). Treatment T2 and T5 was at par with each

other. Least impact was of treatment plant was noted in Ty IAA at Fl and

boron+zinc at PI (79.55).

It was interesting to note that middle and lower part of pod bearing

length bearded maximum number of pods as compared to upper part.

4.3.2 Pod length plant'1*-».

Data on pod length are presented in Table 4.13. Data exhibited

treatments varied significantly. Regarding this trait with the maximum value

was obtained in T4and T3 (5.40 cm and 5.30 cm) respectively.

Among treatments least impact was seen in T6 (Boron+zinc at both

stages) with value (5.10 cm).

4.3.3 Number of seed pod"1

The data on number of seed pod~1 are presented in Table 4.13

Regarding this trait, all the treatments applied were differed

significantly. Highest impact was noted in treatment T4 (3.30).

Least impact was noted in T3 (3.02).

4.3.4 Number of seed plant'1

The data on number of seed plant"1 are presented in Table 4.13.

Data revealed that all treatments differed significantly. Highest value

for this trait was noted in T4 (250) that was at par with T2 (240) effect was

observed in T4 and ~T2 treatment.

Least effect was observed in treatment T6 (lAA+boron+zinc at both

stages) (206.33).

4.3.5 Pod weight plant"1

The data on pod weight plapt~1 are presented in Table 4.13.

Data showed that all the treatments differed significantly. Its highest

value was noted in T4 (41.21 g plant"1) and was at par with T2, T3, Is.

Least impact was found in T6 (20.09 g plant"1) and it was at par with

control (18.17 g plant'1).

4.3.6 Seed yield plant"1 and Seed yield ha"1

The data on seed yield plant""1 are presented in Table 4.13.

Data exhibited in both the characters the treatments differed

significantly. Highest value was noted in T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both

Fig 4.8: Effect of treatment T4 - (1A A+boron+zinc at both stages)on pod length

Fig 4.9: Effect of treatment T4 - (I AA+boron+zinc at both stages)on grain size

stages) 24.52 g plant"1 and 31.87 q ha"1 respectively. T6 treatment

(Boron+Zinc at both stages) was less effective with value 19.49 g plant"1

and 25.33 q/ha.

4.3.8 Harvest index (HI)

The data on harvest index are presented in table 4.13.

Data exhibited that all the treatments were differed statistically. The

highest value for harvest index was obtained T4 with the value 35.78)

respectively.

Least effect was seen in T6 (boron+zinc at both stages).

4.3.9 Seed index

The data on seed index are presented in table 4.13.

Data revealed that all the treatments varied significantly. Highest

value for seed index was noted in T4 (10.49 g) followed by T3 (10.03 g

plant"1) which was at par with each other.

Least impact of treatment on seed index was noticed in T? (9.38 g

plant"1) while in control it was (9.19 g plant"1).

CHAPTER-V

DISCUSSION

It has been observed that temperature and humidity coupled with

physiological justifications, favours the abscission of leaves, flowers and

pods in pulses. It is known that in pulses temperature and humidity is

responsible for promoting flower and pod abscission, which ultimately

resulted towards the significant shrinkage in yield (Saxena and Johnson,

1990).

In pigeonpea it has been observed that inspite of production of large

number of flowers at different time interval, ratio of pod setting is very less.

The available information revealed plant growth regulators and

micronutrients individually or in combination certainly has their promotory

impact on various morpho-physiological and yield attributes.

In view of this the present investigation entitled "Impact of foliar

application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology

and sink capacity of pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]" was

carried out during Kharif 2002-03 to assess the effect of IAA (0.04%), boron

(0.03%) and zinc (0.02%) individually and in combination on pigeonpea at

specific crop growth stages [flower initiation and pod initiation].

The results of the present investigation are briefly discussed in this

chapter with the views of earlier researches under following headings.

5.1 Seasonal effects

5.2 Morpho-physiological effects associated with yield

5.1 Seasonal effects

All the requirements being adequate for crop growth and

development are the function of climatic parameters. Among the weather

elements rainfall and the temperature are the most important factors

affecting the growth and yield of crop. It is therefore, essential to discuss

the results obtained during the present investigation in the light of rainfall,

temperature and other weather parameters prevailed during the crop

growth period. Variation of climatic parameter from optimal crop

requirements may lead crop growth and development and yields to greater

enhancement or reduction. (Singh, 1988a) reported that pigeonpea needs

moist and warm weather during germination (30-35°C), slightly lower

temperature during active vegetative growth (20-25°C), but about 15-18°C

during flowering and pod setting. However at maturity, it needs higher

temperature at around (35-40°C). Being a pulse crop with deep root

system, pigeonpea is capable to exploring moisture from soil profile.

However a minimum of 250-350 mm rainfall is required for successful

completion of its life cycle (Singh, 1988b).

During the growing period the crop experienced a maximum

temperature range of 26.4 °C to 36.3 °C and a minimum range of 6.6 °C to

25.8 °C (Appendix-1). As regard to rainfall, the crop received 539.4 mm

rains during its growth period. The open pan evaporation noticed over the

growing period ranged between 2.9 mm to 7.3 mm and total evaporation

was 123.7 mm.

A weather parameter revealed that the crop experienced more or

less similar temperature range (23.9 °C to 32 °C) coinciding with the

germination period as against ideal requirement of 30 to 35 °C. A rainfall

159.0 mm at third week of June also favoured the better germination,

growth and flowering were congenial, except at maturity, where it

encountered a range of 6.6 °C to 30.7 °C in comparison to the ideal

requirement of 35 °C to 40 °C. This might have helped favourably in better

grain filling of the crop. A rainfall 23.2 mm occurred during of third week of

October at the time of pod development was helpful for significant

increment in yield. Karle and Pawar, (1998) noted that frequent rains during

flowering and pod development stages and optimurrt plant stand were

responsible for boosting the yield of pigeonpea.

5.2 Morpho-physiological effects associated with yield

Regarding the phenology of pigeonpea crop, IAA alone itself induced

the postponement in flowering of the crop. Significant delay was observed

in 50% flowering, podding and days to maturity by all the treatments except

in T-i and Ta. Which might be due to the fact that IAA interferes with the

photoperiodic reactions which occurs in the leaves and hinders the

synthesis of flowering and resulted the delay in flower induction in the shoot

apex. However boron and zinc didn't reflect any significant impact on

preponding or postponing the phenology but upto certain extent these could

have induced the cell wall plasticity to some extent. On the other hand,

these micronutrients are also responsible for resulting the metabolic

activities specifically the formation and maintenance of chlorophyll thus

delaying the maturity of crop. These results were corroborated with findings

of Swami et ai, (1983) and Singh, (1986).

In pigeonpea, plant height is the most influencive determining

morphological trait. Results clearly highlighted that increased trend in plant

height and pod bearing length due to application of auxin along with

micronutrients. Application of IAA along with boron and zinc at flower

initiation and pod initiation stage contributed maximum for plant height as

compare to other treatments. Further it emphasized that the importance of

appropriate time of application of IAA, boron and zinc which can alter the

physiology when given at proper stage of crop. Increase in plant height and

pod bearing length was mainly attributed due to higher shoot growth

through cell elongation, cell differentiation and apical dominance promoted

by the IAA. Boron and zinc are also suppose to be involved in the hormone

synthesis hence indirectly related to translocation and metabolism of

carbohydrates finally contributing to additional growth compared to control

treatment. The significant differences in plant height were also noted by

Sharma and Shah, (1979), Sharma, (1986), Dod et ai, (1989), Padma et

ai, (1989) and Deotale et ai, (1998).

Application of IAA, boron and zinc enhanced plant height and pod

bearing length hence provided space for development of more number of

branches at different parts of pod bearing length. Significant differences do

exist in number of branches due to application of bioregulators along with

boron and zinc. Application of IAA with boron and zinc reflected synergistic

impact and resulted higher and consistent value for total number of

branches as well as individually as upper, middle and lower branches in

pod bearing length. These might be-due to promotion of bud and branch

development by the auxins. Boron and zinc application also induced the

maximum number of branches because of the ultimate increase in the

availability of other nutrients and also due to accelerated the translocation

of photoassimilates as well. The results are in conformity with those

obtained by Padma et al., (1980), Barclay and Mcdevid (1998), Setia et a/.,

(1993) and Guhey, (1999).

Dry matter accumulation in the plant at progressive stages is a

justified assessment of growth, which gives cumulative expression of

different growth parameters. Further it has been observed that productivity

of pigeonpea is not only dependent on accumulation of total amount of dry

matter but its effective partitioning into economic sink seems to be a key to

increase the yield.

The leaf, stem, root and total dry weight plant"1 varied significantly at

125 and 180 DAS. Dry matter accumulation in leaf, stem, root and total dry

matter was maximum in treatment T4 followed by T2 at all crop growth

stages (Fig. 4 E, 4 F.). Dry matter accumulation in pods was highest in T4

(46%) (Fig. 4 K) as compared to TI (34%) (Fig. 4 K). Where boron and zinc

applied alone it again drive the attention for specific need of IAA with these

micronutrients. Auxin is known to maintain the ability of plant to continue

relatively higher rate of photosynthesis rate, which, contributed to higher dry

matter during the later phases which, is an indicator of current

photosynthesis. Prevention of leaf and pod abscission by IAA coupled with

boron and zinc at both stages simultaneously affects the improvement in

carbohydrate activity. Zinc might have also been involved in nitrogen and

protein metabolism by controlling the RNAase activity and carbohydrate

metabolism. These results are confirmatory to Bangla et a/., (1983), Puste

and Jana, (1988), Sharma et a/., (1989), Shinde et a/., (1991),

Hemantranjan et a/., (2000) and Upadhyay (2002).

Data exhibited that crop growth rate varies at 90-125 and 125-180

DAS. Regarding the RGR values are also statistically significant at 90-125

and 125-180 DAS. Significant increment in total dry matter by IAA with

boron and zinc might ultimately yielded the higher values of crop growth

rate and relative growth rate which was also contributed to the maintenance

of leaf area of the plant, which allows the higher interception of length and

more absorption from the soil. These results are confirmatory to the findings

of Reddy et a/., (1987), Puste and Jana, (1988), Maske, (1998),

Hemantranjan et a/., (2000), Kalyani et a/., (1993) and Kalita and Dey,

(1996).

Findings of the experiments clearly inferred that bioregulator (IAA)

and micronutrients (B+Zn) at flower initiation and pod initiation can altered

the yield attributes resulting remarkable increase in seed yield. Among

these yield traits increase in number of pod of the plant shared maximum

towards the visible jump in other related components of the yield (pod

length, seed number plant"1, pod weight, seed weight). Interestingly seed

yield and harvest index experienced the significant impact due to th)e

application (74) lAA+boron+zinc at flower initiation and pod initiation of the

crop phase. These might be due to the fact that IAA promotes th)e

prevention of pod abscission and cell elongation at suppression of

abscission of pod is the major determining the factor of the seed yield. On

the other hand auxin indirectly controls the ethylene activity, which

accelerates the abscission. It also suppresses the activity of cellulase, cell-

degrading enzyme which favours abscission process. Boron and zinc also

contributes significantly in reducing the abscission of pod by preventing

abscission layer formation when applied at podding stage. At the same time

it also increases the sink demand as well as the translocation of

photosynthates from source to sink. This may be due to unloading of the

current photosynthates being accumulated in the leaf and stem.

It was interesting to notice that application of T4 (IAA + boron + zinc

at flower initiation and pod initiation stage) showed remarkable

improvement in yield attributing traits as compared to the Tz

(lAA+boron+zinc at flower initiation) where it was applied at flower initiation

stage only. Further suggesting that there are proper specifications at

podding these specifically accelerating the translocation of photoassimilates

from stem to economic sink. T6 (Boron and zinc at both the stages) favored

the maximum retention of leaf and flower thus can be further promoted the

yield associates (Fig.4 K.).

It can also be inferred that application of auxin with boron and zinc at

both stages (T4) favored the higher net photosynthetic area (Fig. 4 E.),

chlorophyll content, carbohydrate activities and protein synthesis. These

activities might have contributed to nitrate reductase activity via nucleic acid

and protein metabolism. Boron also seems to improve the translocation of

photosynthates, root growth, higher rate of pollination might be resulted

towards the higher sink potential.

Again it was interesting to note that least impact on seed yield

attributes was observed in T-i, T6 and Ty where individually auxin or boron

+zinc were applied at specific growth stages. Suggesting the importance of

application of these growth substances at proper critical growth phase of

the crop. Lowering of seed yield might be resulted due to higher dry matter

accumulation in stem at maturity stage of crop (58%, 57%, 51%), (Fig. 4 K)

and least partitioning to pod sink (34%, 34%, 41%) respectively. Boron and

zinc interaction resulted to some extent. As boron application decreases the

zinc content and zinc application decreases the boron content.

(Hemantranjan, 2000). The increment in yield and its yield attributes by |AA,

boron and zinc is confirmatory to earlier researchers by Sharma and Shah

(1979), Sharma (1988), Sengupta and Sen (1989), Sharma et a/., (1989)

and Guhey (1999).

CHAPTER VI

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND SUGGESTIONS FOR

FUTURE WORK

An investigation entitled "Impact of foliar application of Indole

acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology and sink capacity of

pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]" was carried out during Kharif

2002-03 at Instructional Farm, Indira Gandhi Agricultural University, Raipur

(C.G.).

Experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RED) with

seven treatments and three replication. Pigeonpea seeds of Asha (ICPL-

87-119) are used for evaluating the performance, which has to be

recommended for Chhattisgarh region. Crop was protected in whole crop

growth period from insect pests and diseases. By timely spraying of

insecticides and pesticides, Irrigation are given whenever necessary.

Treatments are applied at flower initiation and pod initiation stages of

crop. Seven combinations of IAA, boron and zinc are made such as T-i

(control), T2 (lAA+boron+Zinc at Fl), T3 (lAA+boron+Zinc at PI), T4

(lAA+boron+Zinc at both stages), T5 (IAA at both stages) T6(Boron+zinc at

both stages) T/ (IAA at Fl and boron+zinc at PI).

While going through the results of this experiment, interesting results

are emerged out which are as described. IAA along with Boron+zinc at

flowering and podding stage can alter phenology of crop. Among

phenological parameters 50% flowering, podding and maturity was delayed

in T4, TS and T6 treatments.

Plant height was elevated by the application of treatments and

highest value was observed in T4 with applied IAA in combination with

micronutrients at both stages individually.

Regarding pod bearing length which had also elevated by applying

treatments. Highest investment was noted in T4 (IAA + boron + zinc at both

stages).

Middle and lower most part of pod bearing length bearded maximum

pods by the application of IAA, boron and zinc. Branches are also differed

significantly and out of total branches, middle and lower part of pod bearing

length are having the maximum number of branches at both stages.

Regarding biometrical observation leaf, stem, root, and total dry

matter also had increased by the application. Consistent trend was noted in

T4 treatment. Acceleration of photoassimilates as well as partitioning of

assimilates from stem to sink in later phase was favoured by T4 (46%).

CGR and RGR are differed significantly at later phases of crop 90-

125 and 125-180 days interval. Treatment T4 showed the highest values for

CGR and RGR.

Yield attributes like number of pods plant"1, number of seed pod"1,

pod length, seed yield plant"1, harvest index and seed index were differed

significantly by the application of treatment. Significant higher yield ha"1 was

noted in treatment T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both stages).

Conclusions

From the above study, it could be concluded that

1. Application of lAA+boron+zinc at flower and pod initiation was most

effective in elevating the yield.

2. It also might concluded that (74) treatment was effective in

preventing the flower and premature pod abscission and accelerating

translocation of photoassimilates

3. Seed yield ha"1 was also improved in T4, it might be concluded that

?4 achieved the goal of potential yield realization.

4. For achieving the best results of above treatment, treatment 14

followed by T2 and T3 can be recommendable.

Suggestions for future work

1. The experiment should be conducted for few more years to reach

some confirmed conclusions regarding the results obtained.

2. By keeping the same trend, the combination of plant growth

regulator with micronutrients other than this could be made an have

to test according to burning problem of pigeonpea or any other crop.

3. Investigations are also necessary to identify recent active ingredients

of combinations of growth regulators and their concentration, which

are promotery effect on prevention of abscission o plant organs.

4. For tapping the higher yields, study should be conducted with

combinations with other micronutrients.

5. At molecular level, to work for control of genetic expression by these

bioregulators there may be some changes which are caused to

suppress the abscission factor. Those changes have to find out,

characterize and efforts should be made to delete or minimize the

effect of abscission promoting factor so as to have bright future in

potential yield realization pulses.

6. To understand biochemistry of these PGR an their interrelations with

micronutrients this treatment combination should be tested for other

varieties in different agro-climatic conditions.

Impact of foliar application of Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron andzinc on physiology and sink capacity of pigeonpea

[Cajanus cajan (L.)Millsp.]

by

Tekale Rameshwar Panditrao

Abstract

The present investigation entitled "Impact of foliar application of

Indole acetic acid (IAA), boron and zinc on physiology and sink capacity of

pigeonpea [ Cajanus cajan (L)Millsp.]" was carried out at Instructional farm,

IGAU, Raipur (C. G.) during Kharif2QQ2 with the objectives to prevent the

leaf, flower and premature pod abscission, to improve pod setting,

simultaneously to accelerate the transportation of photoassimilates towards

the enhancement of sink capacity of pigeonpea. The experiment was laid

down in Randomized Block Design (RED) with seven treatments consisted

of TI (Control), T2 (lAA+boron+zinc at Fl), T3 (lAA+boron+zinc at PI), T4

(lAA+boron+zinc at both stages), T5 (IAA at both stages), T6 (boron+zinc at

both stages) and T? (IAA at Fl and boron+zinc at PI) with three replication.

Results indicated that various morphophysiological as well as yield

attributing parameters were differed significantly in all the treatments like

plant height, pod bearing length, number of branches in upper, middle,

lower and total branches in pod bearing length, total dry weight plant"1, crop

growth rate, relative growth rate, number of pods in upper, middle, lower

and total pods plant"1, pod length plant"1, seed yield plant"1, seed yield ha"1,

harvest index and seed index.

In yield attributing characters treatment T4 (lAA+boron+zinc at both

the stages) exhibited most pronounced effect in terms of highest number of

pods plant"1, seed yield plant"1, harvest index and seed, index followed by

treatment T2 (lAA+boron+zinc at Fl) while, least impact was observed in TS

and Te.

Department of Plant physiologyCollege of AgricultureRaipur (C.G.)

ley(Major Advisor)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Agarwala, S. C. and Sharma, C. P. 1979. Recognising micronutrient

disorders of crop plants on the basis of visible symptoms and

plant analysis. Prem printing press, Lucknow India, pp. 55-

85.

Agarwala, S. C., Sharma, P. N., Chaterjee, C. and Sharma, C. P. 1981.

Development and enzymatic changes during pollen

development in boron deficient maize plants. J. Plant Nutri. 3:

229-236.

AN, M. and Mishra, J. P. 2001. Effect of foliar nutrition of boron and

molybdenum on chickpea. Indian J. Pulses Res. 14:41-43.

Alieve, D. A. 1971. The effect of combination of micronutrients and N and P

on the yield and quality of tomatoes. Horti. Abstr. 4220.

Anonymous, 2000. Agricultural statistics at a glance. Directorate of

Economics and Statistics, Dept. of Agriculture and

Cooperation, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India, New Delhi.

Anonymous, 2001. Annual Report. All India Co-ordinated Research project

on Pigeonpea, IIPR, Kanpur. pp. 4-11.

Anonymous, 2002. 'Poor man's meat' needs fresh fillip. The Hindu survey

of Indian Agriculture. Kasturi and sons Ltd. Chennai. pp. 63-

69.

f o

Anonymous, 2003a. Status Report. Indira Gandhi Agriculture University,

Raipur. pp. 60-70.

Anonymous, 2003b. Annual Report. 2001-02, University of Agricultural

Sciences. Dharwad 580005. pp 45-48.

Bangla, D. B., Deshmukh, S. N. and Patil, V. A. 1983. Contribution of pod

wall in grain development of Chickpea (Cicer arientanum L.)

as influenced by growth promoter. Indian J. plant physiol.

26:292-295.

Barclay, G. F. and Mcdavid, C. R. 1998. Effect of benzylaminopurine on

fruit set and seed development in pigeonpea. Scientia

Horticulturae. 72 (2): 81-86.

Bhattacharya, S. 1992. Productivity of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) as

influenced by different levels of phosphorus and row spacing.

M. Sc. (Ag.) Thesis submitted to IGAU, Raipur.

Bhuiyan, M. A. H., Rahman, M. H. H. and Khatun, M. R. 1997. Effect of

micronutrients (Mo and rhizobial inoculums) on nodulation

and yield of groundnut. Legume Research. 203 (3/4): 155-

159.

Black, C. A. 1965. Methods of soil analysis. American Soc. Agron. Medison

Wis USA.

Bodman, G. B. 1942. Nomegrams for rapid calculation of soil density, water

contents and total porosity relationship. J. Amer. Soc. Agron.

34: 883 - 893.

Bolanos. L, Esteban, E., Cristina A. L, Mercedes F. P., Maria R. A. P.,

Austin G. and Indefonso, B. 1994. Essentiality of boron for

symbiotic nitrogen fixation in pea (Pisum sativa) rhizobium

nodules. Plant Physiol. 104:81-90.

Brar, Z. S., Deol, J. S. and Kaul, J. N. 1992. Influence of plant growth

regulators on grain production and dry matter partitioning in

chickpea International chickpea Newsletter. 27:25-27.

Carlson, D. R., Dyer, D. I., Cotterman, C. D. and Durley, R. C. 1987. The

physiological basis for cytokinin induced increase in pod set in

IX 93-100 soybeans. Plant physiol. 84:233-239.

Deotale, R. D. Maske, V. G., Sorte, N. V., Chimurkar, B. S. and Yerne, A. Z.

1998. Effect of GAaand NAA on morphological parameters of

soybean. J. So/As and crops. 8(1): 91-94.

Dickinson, D. B., 1978. Influence of borate and pentoerythiol concentration

of germination and tube growth of Lilium lofiflorum pollen. J.

Amer. Soc. Horti. Sci. 103:413-446.

Dod, V. N., Kale, P. B. and Ratonkar, R. S. 1989. Effect of foliar application

of auxin and micronutrients on growth and yield of chilli. PKV

Res.J. 13(1): 29-33.

Dongre, S. M., Mahorkar, V. K., Joshi, P. S. and Deo, D. P. 2000. Effect of

micronutrient spray on yield and quality of Chilli [Capsicum

annum L.) Var. Jayanti. Agric. Sci. Digest. 20 (2): 106-107.

r ••

Fisher, 1921. Laboratory manual of physiological studies of Rice. IRRI. pp

so-48. : ;

Gomez, A. W. and Gomez, A. A., 1976. Statistical procedure for agricultural

research (2nd ed.) An Inter. Rice Research Insti. Phill. John

Waley and Sons. pp. 70-90.

Guhey, A. 1999. Physiological studies on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in

relation to drought tolerance. Ph.D. Thesis Submitted to Dept.

of plant physiology, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, BHU,

Varanasi.

Gupta, U. S. 1984. Production potential of grain legumes in U. S. Crop

physiology. Advancing frontiers. Oxford and IBM publication

Co. New Delhi, pp. 284-297.

Hemantranjan, A. 2000. Physiological significance of boron in plant

nutrition. Advances in Plant physiology. Scientific publishers,

Jodhpur. pp. 497-513.

Hemantranjan, A. and Garg, 0. K. 1984. Effect of zinc fertilization on the

senescence of wheat varieties. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 27(3):

239-246.

Hemantranjan, A., Trivedi, A. K. and Maniram. 2000. Effect of foliar applied

boron and soil applied iron and sulphur on growth and yield of

soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.). Indian J. Plant Physiol.,

5(2): 142-144.

Jackson, 1967. Soil Chemical analysis practises Hall of India ltd. New

Delhi.

Kalita P. and Dey S. C. 1996. Physiological efficiency and yield

performance of some black gram (Vigna mungo) varieties as

influenced by foliar application of boron. Plant Physiol. and

Biochem. 24 (1): 22-25.

Kalyani, R., Sreedevi, V., Satyanarayana, N. V. and Madhavarao, K. V.

1993. Effect of foliar application of boron on crop growth and

yield of pigeonpea (Cajanus Cajan (L.) Millsp.) Indian J. Plant

Physiol. 36(4): 223-226.

Karle, A. S. and Pawar, G. G., 1998. Seed yield of pigeonpea genotypes

under varying planting geometry during Rabi season Indian J.

Pulses Research. 11 (1): 98-99.

Kaul, T. N., Sekhon, N. S. and Brar, J. S. 1976. Effect of hormones on the

grain yield of cowpea. Tropical grain legumes bulletin. 6:3-4.

Kene, H. K., Sontakey, P. Y. and Kale, M. R. 1995. Effect of foliar

application of growth regulators on growth yield and oil

contents of sunflower. PKV. Res. J. 19 (2): 29-33.

Kocchar, P. L. 1976. A textbook of Plant Physiology. Atmaram and Sons,

Delhi, pp. 158-169.

Kumar, P., Dube, S. D. and Chauhan, V. S. 1999. Effect of salicylic acid on

growth, development and some biochemical aspects of

soybean (Glycine max (L) Merrill.). Indian J. of Plant Physiol.

4(4): 4 327-330.

Leopold, A. C. and Kriedmann, P. E., (1975). The dynamics of growth in

plant growth and development 2nd Ed. The Tata Me. Grow Hill

Pub. Co. Ltd. New Delhi, pp. 77-105.

Marschner, H. 1986. Mineral nutrition of higher plants. Academic press,

London, pp. 40-75.

Maske, V. G., Deotale, R. D., Sorte, N. V., Goramnager, H. G. and Chore,

C. N. 1998. Influence of GAs and NAA on growth and yield

contributing parameters of soybean. J. so/7s and crops 8 (1):

20-22.

Mote, U. N., Patil, A.V. and Wavhal, K. N. 1975. Effect of NAA (Planofix)

sprays on flower drop and yield in important varieties of

chillies. Res. J. Mahatma PhuleAgric. Univ. 6 (1): 57-66.

Nickell. 1978. Plant growth regulators controlling Biological behaviour with

chemicals. Chem. Engg. News. 56:18-34.

Olsen, S. R., Cole, C. V., Watanable, F. S. and Dean L A., 1954.

Estimation of Available P in soils by extraction with Na2Co3

United State. Deptt. Of Agri. CIRC Washington.

Padma, M., Reddy, S. A. and Babu, R. S., (1989). Effect of foliar sprays of

molybdenum (Mo) and boron (B) on the vegetative growth

and dry matter production of Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris

L.) J. Res. APAU. 17(1): 87-89.

Pande, S. N. 1975. Effect of NAA on flower abscission and productivity of

Arhar (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) and soybean (Glycine max

(L.) Merrill.) J. Pesticides Bombay. 9 (9) 42-44.

Pathak, J. and Pal S. K., (2003). Effect of zinc and molybdenum on growth

yield and quality of blackgram. 2nd International congress on

Plant physiology. 8-12 Jan. New Delhi, India pp. 376-377.

Patil, P. K. and Ballal, A. L 1980. Effect of seed and foliar sprays of various

plant growth regulators on flower drop and yield of green chilli.

J. o/:A/XlL/5(3):195-197.

Pipper, C. S. 1967. Soil and plant analysis. Hans Pub. Bombay.

Pollard, A. S., Dari, A. J., and Lenghmen, B. C. (1977). J. Exp. Bot. 28:831-

841

Prasad, M. 1991. Effect of plant growth regulators on Mustard (Brassica

Juncea.). Indian J. Agron. 36 (4): 612-614.

Puste, A. N. and Jana, P. K. 1988. Effect of phosphorus and zinc on growth

patterns of pigeonpea (Cajans Cajan (L.) Millsp.) growth

during winter season. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 31(3): 243-247.

Rajput, R. C., Shrivastava, V. K. and Verma, 0. P. 1996. Effect of growth

regulators on growth and yield of Indian mustard (Brassica

Juncea L) Agric. Sci. Digest. 16 (2): 111-124.

Randhwa, K. S. and Singh, K. 1970. Effect of maleic hydrazide (MH), NAA

and GAs application on vegetative growth and yield of

muskmelon. Indian J. Horti. 27: 195-199.

Rathinvel, K., Dharmalingam, C. and Paneerselvam, S. 1999. Effect of

micronutrient on the productivity and quality of cotton seed

Cv. TCB 209. Madras Agricultural journal, 86(4-6): 313-316.

Ravichandran, M., Jaison, J. J. and SriramchandraSekharan, M. V. 1995.

Effect of zinc and copper on yield and quality of brinjal. Ann.

Agric. Res. 16(3): 282-285.

Reddy, Y., Reddy, B. T. and Reddy S. G. H. 1987. Effect of DAP; NAA and

topping on yield attributes and yield of pigeonpea. The Andra

Agric. J. 34(1): 85-87.

Richards, F.J. 1969. The quantative analysis of growth in Plant physiology.

SA'(Ed.) F.J. steward, Academic press, New York.

Salunkhe, D. K., Chavan, J. K. and Kadam, S. S. 1986. Pigeonpea is

important food source. Critical Review in Food Sci. and

Nutrition. 23(2): 103-141.

Sarkar S. and Aery, N. C. 1990. Effect of zinc on growth of soybean. Indian

J. Plant Physiol. 33(3): 239-241.

Sarmah, S. C. and Dey, S. C. 1986. Response of soybean to foliar

application of some growth regulators and in combination with

urea and potash. Soybean Genetics Newsletter: 13:71-74.

Saxena, N. P. 1984. Pigeonpea. In: Goldsworthy, P. K. and Fisher, N. M.,

Ed. The physiology of tropical field crops, New York, John

Willey and Sons. pp. 319-353.

Saxena, N. P. and Johansen, C. 1990. Realised yield potential in chickpea

and physiological considerations for further genetic

improvement. Society for plant physiology and biochemistry.

In proceeding of International congress of plant physiology,

New Delhi.

Selim, M. M. 1972. Egyptian J. Agron. 17:141-154.

Sengupta, B. C. and Sen, K.N. 1989. Effect of P20s and NAA on grain yield,

pods per plant and dry matter yield of green gram. Indian J.

Agron. 34 (2): 237-240.

Setia, N., Setia S. R. C. and Malik, C. P. 1993. Alterations in growth and

yield components of lentil in response to foliar application of

Napthyl Acetic Acid (NAA). Indian J. of Plant physiol. 36 (1):

47-52.

Sharma, P. S. and Shah, C. B. 1979. Effect of seed soaking and foliar

spray with GA and NAA on growth and yield of soybean. The

Andhra Agric. J. 26 (1&2): 24-27.

Sharma, R., Singh. G. and Sharma, K. 1989. Effect of Triacontanal, Minatol

and NAA on yield and its components in mung bean. Indian

Agriculturist 33 (1): 59-60.

Sharma, S. R. (1986) Effect of Growth stimulators on productivity of

soybean. Proceeding of the workshop on increasing crop

productivity, 20-21 June 1986 Bombay, pp. 79-185.

Sharma, S. R., Verma, V. P., Rathore, R. S., Khandwe, R. K., Sharma, 0.

P. and Shrivastava, R. K. 1990. Effect of growth stimulator on

yield and oil content of soybean. J. Oilseed Res. 6:26-31.

Shende, V. D. and Berore, B. P. 1985. Effect of foliar sprays of growth

substances on the yield attributes on pea (Pisum sativum) Cv.

Bonneville M.Sc. Thesis, MPK Rahuri.

Shinde, A. K., Jamadagni, B. M. and Birari, S. P. 1991. Effect of foliar spray

of growth regulators and KNO3 on growth and yield of cowpea

(Vigna unguiculata L.) Var. VCM-8. Indian J. Plant physiology.

34(4): 392-395.

Singh, Amar. 1986. Fruit physiology and production (2nd ed.) Kalyani Pub.

Delhi, pp. 105-118

Singh, G. and Jain, S. 1982. Effect of some growth regulators on certain

biochemical parameters during seed development in chickpea

under salinity. Indian J. Plant Physiol. 25:169-179.

Singh, K. 1989. Hormonal regulation of reproductive phenomena and yield

of chickpea. Ann. Plant Physiology. 3: 108-115.

I

Singh, K. and Kakralya, B. L. 1993. Seed yield and quality responses of

Chickpea to mixatol treatments. Acta Botanica indica. 21:202-

207.

Singh, K. and Rathore, S. 1988. Seed protein yield of mung in response to

treatment with growth regulators under field condition. Indian

Agriculturist. 32 (2): 133-137.

Singh, K. and Singh, B. 1994. Flower abscission and fruit yield of capsicum

cultivars in response to hormonal treatments. Acta Botanica

indica 22:266-71.

Singh, K., 1989 Hormonal regulation of reproductive phenomenon and yield

of Chickpea. Ann. Plant Physiol. B: 108-115.

Singh, S. S., 1988a. Crop management under irrigated and rainfed

conditions. Kalyani Publishers, Ludhiana. pp. 132-136.

Singh, S., Singh, G. and Singh H. 1987. Assessing the physiological

maturity of Pigeonpea [Cajanus Cajan (L) Millsp.] Seeds.

Indian J. Plant Physiol. 30(4): 404-407.

Singh, V., (1998). Fundamentals of irrigation of fertilizers. Agricultural

Research Information center, Hissar, pp. 19-25.

Sinha, S. K. 1977. Food legumes: Distribution, Adaptability and biology of

yield. Plant population paper No. 3 F. A. 0., Rome.

Subbiah, B. V. and Asija, G. L. 1956. A rapid method for estimation of

nitrogen in soil. Curr. Sci. 26:259-260.

Swami, T. N., Singh, N., Verma, Y. K. and Chaudhary, B. 1983. Growth and

yield of pea as influenced by growth regulator. Madras agric.

J. 20 (8): 525-528.

Tayo, T. 0. 1980. Compensatory growth and yield of pigeonpea (Cajans

cajan (L) Millisp.) following pod removed at different stages of

reproductive growth. J. Agric. Sci. Camb. A5: 487-491.

Thiraton, A., Byth, D. E., Fischer, K. S. and Whitman, P. C. 1987. Effect of

sink development of changes in assimilates supply during

different growth stages of short duration pigeonpea. In : food

legume improvement for Asian Farming system. Proc. Intl.

Workshop, eds. Es. Wahis and D. E. Byth, Khon Khaen,

Thailand, 1-5 Sept. 1988, ACAIR Proc. 18 Canberra, pp. 248-

252.

Thiyageshwari, S. and Ramanathan, G. 1999. Micronutrient and cytozyme

on grain yield and dry matter production of soybean. Madras

agric. J. 86 (7-9): 496-498.

Umamaheshwari, P. and Singh, C. P. 2002. Influence of irrigation levels

and micronutrients (Fe and Zn) on yield attributes of rajmash

(Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Legume Res. 25 (2): 121-123.

Upadhayay, R. G. 1994. Effect of bio-regulators on growth development,

flowering behaviour and yield of chickpea. Legume Res. 17

(1): 60-62.

Upadhayay, R. G. 2002. Response of growth regulators on flower drop, fruit

setting, biochemical constituents and yield of chickpea (Cicer

aretinum L.) under mid hill conditions of H. P. Legume Res.

25 (3): 211-214

Upadhyay, R. G., Singh, B. B. and Yadav, D. N. 1993. Effect of Bio-

regulators on biochemical constituents and yield of Chickpea.

Indian J. Plant Physiol. 3: 195-196.

Vaushan, A. K. F. 1977. The relation between the concentration of boron in

the reproductive and vegetative organs of maize plants and

their development. J. Agric. Res. 15: 163-170.

Veliath, J. A. and Ferguson, A. C. 1973. A comparison of ethephon, SADH

and DPA for abscission of fruits, flowers and flower buds in

determinate tomatoes. J. Amer. Soc. Horti. Sci. 98:124-127.

Vikhe, S. V., Bengal, D. B. and Patil, V. P. 1983. Effect of growth regulators

and urea on the pod number of pigeonpea. Cv.108.

International pigeonpea Newsletter, pp. 39-40.

Warde, S. D. and Singh, K. 1978. Effect of Planofix (NAA) on control of

flower drop and fruit set in Chillies. Abstr. Trop. Agric.

3:16529.

Wasnik, K. G. and Bagga, K. K. 1992. Effect of cycocel on Nitrate

Reductase Activity (NRA) and grain yield in mungbean.

(Vigna radiata L. Wilzeck) Indian J. of Plant Physiol. 35 (1):

104-107.

Appendix I: Weekly meteorological obsevations recorded during the crop season(July 15, 2002 to February 15, 2003)

Month/

Year

July, 02

Aug., 02

Sept., 02

Oct., 02

Nov., 02

Dec., 02

Jan., 03

Feb., 03

Date

09-15

16-22

23-29

30-05

06-12

13-19

20-26

27-02

03-09

10-16

17-23

24-30

01-07

08-14

15-21

22-28

29-04

05-11

12-18

19-25

26-02

03-09

10-16

17-23

24-31

01-07

08-14

15-21

22-28

29-04

05-11

12-18

Week

No.

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

Temperature (°C)

Max.

36.30

31.10

33.40

33.00

31.00

27.00

28.90

30.00

29.80

30.50

31.90

32.10

33.60

32.20

30.90

31.50

31.90

30.10

29.80

29.80

30.00

29.80

29.70

30.90

28.30

26.40

27.70

26.50

30.70

30.80

29.20

29.10

Min.

25.80

24.60

25.60

24.70

24.50

23.10

23.90

24.40

24.10

24.10

23.80

23.20

21.90

23.10

21.30

18.40

15.90

16.20

14.40

11.90

10.90

12.90

12.40

12.40

11.90

10.20

11.20

6.60

12.00

15.50

15.20

16.50

Rainfall

(mm)

8.00

42.60

0.00

75.80

51.50

165.60

43.30

51.00

40.00

20.60

0.00

6.00

0.00

0.00

23.20

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

11.80

1.80

Relativehumidity (%)I

75

90

82

90

92

94

91

93

91

92

91

89

90

86

93

92

90

90

89

89

87

90

89

85

82

87

84

80

80

82

90

81

II

53

72

55

71

76

89

78

75

77

69

59

60

48

60

60

42

36

41

36

30

25

34

31

26

36

37

32

20

27

41

44

51

Windvelocity(km/hr)

9.30

10.20

11.50

5.90

10.20

14.70

8.90

5.90

8.00

5.90

2.60

3.00

1.60

3.90

3.20

2.00

1.70

2.70

2.80

1.70

2.00

1.40

1.70

2.50

2.70

3.00

2.10

2.30

1.80

4.00

4.80

3.70

Evaporation

(mm/day)

7.30

4.80

7.10

4.70

4.30

3.10

3.00

3.30

4.10

3.60

4.40

4.30

4.30

4.50

3.90

3.80

3.50

3.40

3.70

3.40

3.50

3.10

3.10

3.80

3.40

2.90

3.50

3.80

3.60

4.40

4.10

4.10