Complete Thesis 2

CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Traditionally flowers are grown for aesthetic, social functions, extraction of essential oils

and manufacturing of perfumes (Byczynski, 1997). But now, floriculture has been

identified as a potential business due to divergence of farmers towards high value floral

crops and utilization of flowers in social and industrial level in Punjab, Pakistan. Hence

commercial floriculture has emerged inside the country. The most important floricultural

crops in the Pakistan cut flower trade are Roses, Tuberoses, Gladiolus, Iris, Carnation,

Narcissus, Lilies, Freesia, Statice and Gerbera etc (Riaz et al., 2007).

Pakistan falls in the arid to semi arid climatic region of the world. Potential

evapotranspiration is considerably higher as compared to rainfall received. High

temperature promotes capillary movement of salts upwards causing deposition of salts on

the soil surface. The country has the largest contiguous irrigation system in the world,

irrigating over about 17 million hectares, and accounting for 90 percent of the agricultural

production in the country (GoP, 2002). Even then the existing canal supplies are

insufficient to meet the crop water requirements. Increased pressure of population has

catalyzed the need to bring more area under cultivation to fulfill the food and fiber

demands. To bring more area under cultivation or increased in cropping intensity, some

additional water is required, but under the existing situation one of the alternative is the

exploitation of the groundwater reserves. (Chaudhry et al., 2000, 2001, 2002, Aslam et

al., 1998; and Gupta et al., 1995).

However, another option is efficient use of available water resources or to conserve soil

moisture (Ahmad et al., 1993; Dixit et al., 1971; and Kaseem et al., 1977).

Tuberose (Polianthus tuberosa L.) member of Amaryllidaceae family, native of Mexico,

is widely grown in Asia. Tuberoses are among the most fragrant of all garden plants and

are easily cultivated. It is usually cultivated in Morocco, France, Hawaii, South Africa,

1

India and China. The growers commonly use the two well-known tuberose varieties

Single Mexican and The Double Pearl. The former is preferred for its enticing fragrance,

while the Double Pearl is preferred in flower arrangements due to the density of the

flowers on its spikes. The Pearl also exudes fragrance characteristics of the tuberose, but

to a lesser extant than the Single Mexican variety. Single flowers have 6 petals while

double have 12. Tuberose blooms in late summer/autumn. Clustered spikes of tuberose

are star shaped and waxy loosely arranged on spikes that can reach 3 to 4 feet in height.

It is mostly grown around living areas for cut flowers, perfumes, fragrant oil, or garden

beds. For mass effect in the border space the corms are planted 4-6 inches apart and at a

depth of 2 inches. Mid spring is the best time to set out new corms. It can be grown

successfully in warm and humid areas with optimum temperature of 30c. Loamy and

sandy loam soils with pH 6.5-7.5 are the best for its growth. Normal watering is required

during drying period. Well-rotted animal manure, blood and bone or a complete fertilizer

should be added in the soil before planting for its better growth.

They have been grown commercially for florists and bulb distributors. The blossoms are

also popular in weddings. The flower is very popular for its long spike; strong fragrance

and its essential oils are important components of high-grade perfumes in southern

France. It is one of the worlds most costly perfume ingredients worth more than its

weight in gold.

As tuberose is summer crop that produce flowers from April to September, due to its

great demand it is possible to advance the off-season flowering conditions through tunnel

technology techniques. Conditions of Faisalabad are suitable for the early crop

production through tunnel technology that extends the growth period and flowering

quality of the crops. The climate of Punjab is suitable for simple unheated poly/plastic

tunnels for indoor vegetable production that is well suited for the over-bridging the gap in

markets during the cool months or to extend the season to be earlier in the market than

the produce of the open field. The plastic covering protects the crops from rainfall, by

reducing the amount of foliar diseases common in field production tomatoes.

2

Enhanced early season production and improved quality are important factors for warm

season crop growers. The intent is to grow crops where otherwise they could not survive

by modifying the growing environment to prolong the harvest period, often with earlier

maturity, greater yield and improved quality, making commodities available when there

is no outdoor production (Wittwer and Castilla, 1999). Therefore growers who have the

ability to modify their climate have a competitive advantage over growers in the same

region that do not have the ability to manipulate their climate.

Mulching is the common and cheapest method for the weed control. Weeds are major

problem in agricultural production throughout the world. In order to maintain good yields

of crops, weeds must be controlled. For these reasons mulching is more common in

organic farming and its benefits include weed control, soil moisture conservation, and

soil temperature moderation (Larsson et al., 1997). Plastic mulches affects plant

microclimate by modifying the soil energy balance and restricting soil water evaporation,

therefore affecting plant growth and its yield (Tarara, 2000).

Black plastic mulch, the predominant color used in crop production, is an opaque black

body absorber and radiator. The efficiency with which black mulch increases soil

temperature can be improved by optimizing the transferring heat from the mulch to the

soil (Lamont, 1999; Aniekwe et al., 2004). Some mulch materials such as the reflective

mulches are efficient in repelling insects (AVRDC, 1990).

Humic acid contributes about 60 % of soil organic matter (Varanini and Pinton, 2006). It

is reported that humic acid shows best results relating to plant growth in soils, which have

low organic matter. So it is essential that before the application of humic acid, the organic

matter status of soil must be known (Lee and Bartlett, 1976). Application of humic acid

in combination with synthetic fertilizers produce synergistic effects on plants by

enhancing morphological, biochemical and production attributes (Babeanu et al., 2003).

It is also reported that application of humic acid increases the leaf area, leaf nitrogen and

chlorophyll content (Murillo et al., 2005).

3

Many researchers have reported that CaC2 is the potent source of plant hormone, ethylene

(C2H4) which induces improvement in yield of wheat, cotton, rice and Maize crops inn

response to the soil application of coated CaC2 (CCC). Calcium carbide, when applied to

soil it reacts with water to release acetylene (C2H2), which is reduced to ethylene (C2H4)

by soil microbes. Ethylene is a plant hormone and it significantly affects plant growth

and development at extremely low concentration. On the other hand, acetylene is an

effective inhibitor of nitrification and denitrification (Arshad and Frankenberger, 2002;

and Aulakh et al., 2001) and one of the best tools to enhance nitrogen use efficiency

(NUE).

Recent studies highlight the importance of ethylene as plant growth hormone. However,

limited use has been made of C2H4 for the improvement of agricultural productivity

because of gaseous nature and the difficulty in its direct application to soil I the field.

Because it is highly flammable and explosive, so exposure to gas cause dizziness and

could cause suffocation from decreasing the amount of oxygen. The minimum explosive

concentration (3.1%) exceeds the suggested ethylene concentrations for tomato ripening

and citrus degreening respectively by 200 and 6200 times (Sharma and Yadav, 1996).

One of the more commonly used forms is the ethylene-generating chemical (2-

chloroethyl) phosphonic acid, known as ethephon (liquid) was develop in 1960s, when

releases C2H4 chemically when absorbed by the plant tissues. This is mostly used for pre

harvest applications (Sharma and Yadav, 1996).

Quality production needs various nutrients that are applied by organic and inorganic

means. Chemical fertilizers have vital role in growth, quality of flowers, corm and cormel

production for growing Tuberose. The growers do not have any recommended doses of

chemical fertilizers especially micronutrients for quality spike, corm and cormel

production. Resulting, they are deprived of getting optimum size of spike, corm and

cormels for flower cultivation.

Intensive cut flower production demands high level of fertilization. Improper fertilization

in combination with excessive irrigation may contribute soil and environment pollution.

4

Flower crops are very much responsive to fertilizers. So, it requires higher amount of

chemical fertilizers in balance proportion for ensuring maximum flower production.

Major nutrients like nitrogen. Phosphorus, potassium along with micronutrients

noticeably increases the number of flowers, florets/spike, the longest spike and flowering

stem of gladiolus (Afify, 2005). It was also reported that hardiness of the stick, flower

color and post-harvest life could be prolonged to some extant by applying micronutrients

along with blanket dose of NPK and Mg. However, information regarding nutritional

requirements and appropriate soil management practices are lacking foe gladiolus

cultivation in Pakistan.

Most of the soils of Pakistan have pH value (alkaline), which hinders the absorption of

micronutrients. Foliar application is one of the methods to overcome this failure of plants

to absorb certain micronutrients in plant structure and physiological processes they are

treated as the limiting elements for good spike, corm and cormel production (Halder et

al., 2007).

Although plant disease resistance and tolerance are genetically controlled (Agrios, 2005)

they are affected by the environment and especially by nutrient deficiencies and toxicities

(Marschner, 1995). The physiological functions of plant nutrients are generally

understood, but there are still unanswered questions regarding the dynamic interaction

between nutrients and the plant pathogen system (Huber, 1996).

The combination of organic matter and mineral fertilizers provides the ideal

environmental conditions for plant growth (Abdel et al., 2007). Keeping in view the

significance of early crop production in the world, a field experiment was executed to

find out the effect of low tunnel, calcium carbide, humic acid and micronutrients on

important flowering crop of tuberose (Pollianthus tuberosa L.).

5

CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

The relevant literature in respect of present experiment available within and outside the

country is reviewed as under:

Compared to macronutrients, micronutrients are usually required in small amounts and

can be applied through foliage as plant is normally completely left as wet. For the leaves

to absorb them, the micronutrients must be applied as foliar spray.

Foliar application provides:

A rapid response and is recommended when fast correction is necessary.

A homogeneous distribution of a small quantity of micronutrients on a relatively

large surface.

Micronutrients improve general condition of plants and are known to act as catalysts in

promoting organic reactions taking place in plants (Patil et al., 2008). Being involved in

physiology of plant micronutrients contribute to the growth and yield of the plants. It is

realized that productivity of crops is being adversely affected in different areas due to

deficiencies of micronutrients (Bose and Tripathi, 1996) which has been increased

markedly due to intensive cropping, loss of top soil by erosion, loss of micronutrients by

leaching, liming of soil and decreased availability and use of farm yard manure (Fageria

et al., 2002).

Adentunji, (1990) found that mulching reduced the daytime temperature and conserved

soil moisture content. They revealed that growth and yield attributes of lettuce were

significantly higher under groundnut shell and millet – Stover mulches than in sawdust

mulch and control. Irrigating at 7 days interval is more economical, while soil

temperature above 25 ºC is deleterious to the normal growth and yield of lettuce. They

suggested that lettuce requires a soil moisture content corresponding to at least 60 %

plant available water in the 12 cm of soil for optimum yield and this can be provided with

about half of the amount of water with mulching than without mulching.

6

Dahnous et al. (1992) studied the effects of foliarly applied ethephon on field grown

plants of wheat, barley and triticales and found that treatments reduced elongation on tall

cereals and increased the harvestable yield by reducing lodging. Wiersma et al. (1996)

studied the effect of plant growth regulator (PGR) ethephon (ethylene releasing liquid

compound) on yield, lodging and plant height of wheat. The study showed that ethephon

reduced lodging and plant height, and increased grain yield on an average b 6.4 %.

According to Rao and Fritz (1997), foliar application of ethephon increased yield of rice

by 10-45 %. When roots of intact seedlings are grown in well aerated conditions, small

concentrations of ethylene provided by ethephon usually well below 1 uL have been

found to promote root elongation in many species including broad ban (Vicia faba), rice,

tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum), maize and peanut (Arachis hypogea). It can also

increase seedling root length in watermelon (Citrulus Anatus).

Downer and Faber, (1993) showed no deleterious effects when mulched with either

composted or fresh Eucalyptus cladocalyn F. Muell. in different landscape plantings.

They observed that mulched trees were less stressed (increased stomatal conductance),

and should resistance in dormancy for longer period of time and had greater root lengths

than unmulched trees. They also found that mulched soils held more available water than

unmulched soils and produced 80 % fewer weeds. Where as composting had little effect

on tree performance and was deemed unnecessary.

Chen et al. (1994) in a field experiment with cotton measured effect of nitrapyrin,

acetylene (provided by wax coated calcium carbide) and phenyl acetylene on N

transformation and de nitrification following pre sowing application of urea. They found

that losses of urea were reduced to 35-57 % in February (from 84 % of applied N) by the

application of nitrapyrin and Phenyl acetylene and nitrapyrin reduced losses over 24

weeks of sowing 57, 52, and 48 % respectively.

Bibik et al. (1995), after being inspired by muromtsev’s work, conducted two year trials

with potato in order to evaluate effect of Retprol (calcium carbide based formulation)and

CaC2 (in Liquid). They reported that the application of Retprol and CaC2 to soil resulted

7

in increased number of tubers and tuber yield. They further observed that the degree of

response to both compounds was depended on the varietals features of the potatoes. The

application of various amounts of the C2H4 generating products (Retprol and CaC2)

increased the number of tubers by 25-80 % and tuber yield by 29-121 % for both varieties

tested. They reported more effectiveness of patrol than CaC2. Chaiwanakupt et al. (1996)

also explained that addition of wax coated calcium carbide effectively inhibited the

process of nitrification and increases grain yield of rice up to 31 %.

Vos et al. (1995) scrutinized the positive effects of mulch on health of hot pepper crop.

Mulch materials consisted of rice straw and white or silvery plastic foils. Rice straw

mulch had variable effects on crop health. White and silvery plastic mulch reduced thrips

injury and delayed virus epidemics. The overall positive effects of plastic mulch on crop

health contributed to improved crop production. Mulching is therefore recommended as a

component within an integrated crop management (ICM) programmed for hot pepper.

Pinamonti, (1998) tested two composts as mulching materials in a vineyard: one was

sewage sludge and bark compost with low heavy metal content, the other was municipal

solid waste compost with a higher concentration of metals. They reduced soil temperature

fluctuations, reduced evaporation of soil water, and influenced the levels of some

nutrients measured in leaf samples. The data obtained show that the nutrients uptake was

more influenced by the physical conditions of the soil (temperature, moisture) than by the

availability of nutrients in the soil. Both the compost mulch materials had considerable

advantages for the soil management on the grapevine rows, by reducing chemical weed

control and allowing for the substitution of chemical fertilizers with no loss in vigor,

yield or quality of musts.

Schonbeck and Evanylo, (1998) evaluated the effect of hay, compost, plastic and paper

mulch on soil temperature, soil moisture and yield of tomato. They found that organic

mulches reduce soil temperature and maintained higher soil moisture levels than other

treatments. Increased in temperature by 1-2 C and 4 C respectively by black plastic

mulch and oiled paper with slight decrease in soil moisture in lateral one. Differential

8

yield response was observed by influencing and modifying soil temperature regime and

soil moisture level respectively with highest yield in black plastic mulch and lowest in

organic mulches, with paper mulch intermediate.

Olasantan, (1999) conducted an experiment to observe the influence of mulching on the

hydrothermal regime and emergence, growth and tuber yield of white yam. Significant

improvement in the soil moisture content of the 15 cm surface layer by 50 120 g / kg

was observed and decreased the maximum soil temperature by 2 78C at 15 cm depth in

the early growing season (March April). The emergence and development of yam

seedlings were significantly lower in unmulched plots than in mulched treated plots.

Mulching significantly increased tuber yield by about 10 15 mg / ha / season. The

number of leaves per plant, vine diameter and leaf index were also significantly greater in

plots mulched in October December than plots mulched in January or February.

Rodrigues et al. (1999) recorded the mulching effect on Rose plant cvs. Anna and Sari in

closed soil less systems. There was a reduction in the water consumption of 35 or 16 %

corresponding to cultivars Anna and Sari, respectively, when the plants were mulched. A

lower electrical conductivity and higher water content of the mulched substrate were

recorded both in fall and in spring/summer. The results showed significant differences in

flower production and quality, using the mulched system. Higher water use efficiency

was caused by lower evaporation and overall lower increase of the electrical conductivity

of the substrate.

Singh and Bhattacharjee, (1999) studied the concentrations of nutrients in tissue

components of cut roses (Rosa hybrida L.) to assist in developing a fertilizer management

system that sustains a high level of production but also is environment friendly. The

flower represented 28.5 %, leaves 46.0 % and stem 25.5 % of the total weight of the

stalk. However, actual rates of N and K, as well as other nutrients applied, should be

adjusted based on soil and tissue analysis results. Removal of nutrients will be greater if

stalks harvested are >45 cm in length, which may necessitate additional nutrient

application, depending on soil conditions.

9

Haywood, (2000) checked the effect of different mulching and hexazinone herbicide.

After three growing seasons, seedlings on the mulch and hexazinone treatments were

taller than those on the check plots. About 59 % of the mulched and hexazinone treated

seedlings had grown out of the grass stage (at least 12 cm tall) compared to 17 % of the

check seedlings. After five growing seasons, the percentage of longleaf pine seedlings out

of the grass stage was similar on all treatments and averaged 87 %. However, these better

growing pines were taller on the mulch and hexazinone treatments (a 142-cm average)

than on the checks (78 cm). Pine straw was ineffective mulch probably because the straw

smothered the seedlings. The long life saplings were tallest when the perforated

polyethylene mat was used.

Mukesh et al. (2001) investigated the effect of foliar application of zinc, copper and iron

@ 0, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm on the yield and quality of Gladiolus grandiflorus cv.

Mirela. Plants treated with micronutrients exhibited better results with respect to growth,

flowering and yield compared to the control. Foliar application of Fe, Cu and Zn @ 1000

ppm showed better results with respect to growth, flowering and other yield parameters.

In general, the effective treatment for increasing the yield attributes and quality

parameters of Gladiolus grandiflorus was foliar application of Zn @ 1000 ppm.

Randall et al. (2001) studied the effect of acetylene generated from calcium carbide on

nitrification in soil and yield of irrigated maize seedling and describe novel matrix

consisting of calcium carbide and polyethylene that delivers acetylene in soil over

extended period resulted in delayed nitrification. They found in irrigated maize (Zea

mays L.) that the matrix delayed the disappearance of ammonium derived from urea but

gave on benefit for crop yield in a soil that was highly responsive to N, where N losses

(leaching and denitrification) were not significant.

Shigfeumi, (2001) investigated the effect of nonwoven fabric mulching on yield and

quality of cut flower in spray conditions. Under nonwoven fabric mulching, the yield in

4-row planting density with training was higher compared with that in conventional (6-

10

row planting density with training, but without mulching). Moreover, after pinching, but

without training, the yield of mid and late season varieties under 4-row planting density

and nonwoven fabric mulching, increased by 30 % (Light Pink Barbara) and 19 %

(Scarlet Queen) compared with conventional cultivation. Under nonwoven fabric

mulching and 4-row planting density, the quality of the second havest improved

compared with that of under nonwoven fabric mulching and 6-row planting density.

Kang and Iersel, (2002) studied the effect of nutrient solution concentration on growth of

alyssum (Lobularia maritima), celosia (Celosia argentia), dianthus (Dianthus chinensis),

gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa), stock (Matthiola incana) and Zinnia (Zinnia elegans).

Plants were grown with five different concentration of Hoagland nutrient solution. The

concentration of N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, B and Fe in the shoots of dianthus increased while

the concentrations of Mo and Zn decreased with increasing fertilizer concentration.

Gomphrena and stock can tolerate relatively high levels of root zone salinity. Flower

diameter of zinnia decreased with increasing nutrient concentrations. In general, the

growing medium pH was similar with low concentrations (0.125, 0.25 and 0.5) but

decreased with a further increase in fertilizer concentration.

Mahmood et al. (2002) in a pot experiment studied the effect of time of application of

encapsulated calcium carbide with and without NPK fertilizers on growth and yield of

wheat. The study showed that plants responded positively to CaC2 application (60 kg ha-

1). CaC2 treatment after one week, of germination was most effective in increasing

number of tillers, length of spikes, number of spikelets, total biological yield, straw and

grain yield of wheat, while plant height did not increase significantly with the application

of CaC2. Chemical analysis of plants revealed that K and P contents in grains and straw

increased when CaC2 was applied with 120-90-60 kg ha-1 (N-P2O5-K2O) compare to

fertilizer alone.

Prabhat et al. (2002) stated that foliar application of 0.2 % FeSO4 singly or in various

combinations at three leaf or six leaf stages of gladiolus induced flowering earlier than

the other treatments such as ZnSO4 or MnSO4. It also increased plant height and number

11

of leaves. Spike length, number of florets, weight of spike and size of florets were

significantly increased with 0.2 % FeSO4+ 0.2 % ZnSO4 application. Flowering duration

was longest with o.4% FeSO4 + 0.2% ZnSO4 where as corm production plant–1 was

highest with 0.4% FeSO4 + 0.4% MnSO4 + ZnSO4.

Saleem et al. (2002) conducted a field experiment to evaluate influence of encapsulated

calcium carbide on growth, yield and chemical composition of okra. They found that

CaC2 application @ 90 kg –1 was most effective in increasing horizontal expansion of

plant, yield of green pods, number of green pods per plant, fresh and dry weights of shoot

and root and internodes length, while plant height decreased with increase in CaC2

application rate. The chemical analysis of plant material revealed that P and K in green

pods and roots were increased with increase in CaC2 application rate. P contents in shoots

were decreased while that of K increased with increase in CaC2 application from 0-90 kg

ha-1.

Salma et al. (2002) studied the effects of 50 mg L-1 levels of micronutrients (Zn and Mn),

as single and combined treatments on the growth, oil yield and oil constituents of cumin

plants. Application of micronutrients had significant positive effects, in most cases, on

growth measurements and chemical composition of cumin plants. A combined treatment

of the micronutrients gave the highest values in this respect. In the herb and seed oils, 21

constituents were identified, representing 90.2 and 95.6 % of the total amounts,

respectively. Eleven components were similar in both herb and seed oils. Cumin aldehyde

was found as the main component at concentrations of 53.6 % for seed oil and 40.5 % for

herb oil. Among the new identified components in the seed oil were perilla aldehyde,

acoradiene and benzoic acid 4-(1-methylethyl). These components were found in the herb

oil, as well. The oils of herb and seeds of cumin contained considerable amounts of

oxygenated monoterpenes. Both oils were characterized by small amounts of

monoterpenoid and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons.

Pervea et al. (2003) investigated that boron sprays in apple (Malus domestica) tree

consistently increased fruit yield. Applying boron spray at the pink flowering stage

12

increased flower cluster and early season leaf boron concentrations. In the second study,

one quarter of the annual boron fertilizer requirement was tank mixed with CaCl 2 sprays

applied starting in the early June for bitter pit control. This treatment consistently

increased “Scarlet Gala” fruit Boron concentration. The results of these experiment

indicated that applying boron sprays at the pink flowering stage timing and mixing boron

with CaCl2 sprays applied for bitter pit control are useful practices to enhance boron

spray efficacy and convenience of application.

Velinden, (2003) observed changes in the nutritional status of corollas during

development and senescence. Petunia hybrida cv. Mitchell , s corollas were analyzed for

macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients (B, Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Mo) content, dry

weight, fresh weight and ethylene production. Carbon content decreased at slightly lower

rates than dry weight during corolla development between anthesis and senescence, while

fresh weight and ethylene production followed pattern expected of climacteric flowers.

Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content decline during development. Both

phosphorus and potassium content gradually declined throughout development with

overall losses of about 75% and 40% respectively. Nitrogen content declined 50% during

development but losses occurred only during the final stages of senescence. No

significant changes were observed in sulphur, calcium, magnesium and micronutrient

content of the corollas during development.

Wilson et al. (2003) checked the effect of compost media on wine sage (Salvia Spp. Sell

X roenen Schultes Van Houttei), blue anise sage (Salvia gauranitica St. Hil. Ex Benth.

Black and Blue), and indigo spires salvia (S. longispicata Martius Galeotti x S. farincea

Benth. Indigo Spires). Initial physical, chemical and elemental analyses of the media

indicated that compost alone had higher pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total porosity

(TP), bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), N, C, P, Ca, Cu, Fe, and B. Heavy metal

(Cd and Pb) contents of compost did not exceed EPA 503 Rule limits for biosolid usage.

After 6 weeks, plants were measured for leaf nutrient content, growth (leaf and stem dry

weights, stem lengths), and quality (number of flowers, leaf greenness, and subjective

quality ratings). Plants grown in compost had leaf SPAD readings (leaf greenness),

13

number of flowers, and visual quality ratings that were generally similar (Indigo Spires)

or slightly reduced (Van Houttei) than plants grown in peat-based media. However, for

each species (except for Van Houttei grown in 505 compost using drip irrigation), plants

were of marketable quality, regardless of irrigation system or medium.

Chaudhry et al. (2004) evaluated the efficiency of different mulching materials on

moisture conservation, soil properties and plant growth. The infiltration rate of the soil

increased by 30 % at the end of the study. Maximum saving of 45 % irrigation water was

recorded under polythene sheet followed by 30 % under rice straw and 15 % in

mechanical loosing of soil. Maximum plant height was observed under mulching through

mechanical loosing of indicating that mechanical loosing of soil had some positive

impact on plant height where as non-application of mulching material had the minimum

plant height.

Gulshan et al. (2004) studied the effect of plastic mulching in bed planting method and

concluded from the study that higher yield of baby corn can be obtained in bed planting

method and further plastic mulching in bed planting method boosted the baby corn yield

over unmulched soil condition. Plastic mulch increases minimum temperature of soil,

accelerated early growth and plant height, fruiting of plants and gave satisfactory weed

control without any application of herbicide.

14

Smit and Combrink (2004) evaluated the effect of nutrient solution on tomatoes in

greenhouse. Four nutrient solutions with born at different levels (0.02, 0.16, 0.32, and

0.64 mg L-1) were used. Leaf analysis indicated that the uptake of Ca, Mg, Na, Zn and B

increased with higher boron levels. At the low boron level, leaves were brittle and

appeared pale green and very high flower abscission percentage was noticed. Fruit lacked

firmness at the low boron level and this problem worsened during storage. At the 0.16 mg

Kg-1 boron level fruit set, fruit development, color, total soluble solids, firmness and shelf

life seemed to be close to optimum. The highest boron level had no determinant effect on

any of the yield and quality related parameters. However, using “Soluber” as a source of

boron, higher levels decreased soluble Mn concentration in nutrient solutions, probably

owing to the precipitation of insoluble MnO2. This was reflected in reduced leaf-Mn

concentration.

Yaseen et al. (2004) conducted field experiment and pot trials to investigate the effect of

calcium carbide on growth and yield of rice, wheat and cotton crops. The results showed

that encapsulated calcium carbide released large amount of C2H2, which is slowly

reduced to C2H4 by the soil microorganisms. It was observed that CaC2 slow down the

release of NO3- from applied urea that might help in improving NUE. In another field

experiment, Yaseen et al. (2005) evaluated the effect of encapsulated CaC2 on growth

and chemical composition of rice (Oryza sativa L.). The results revealed that

encapsulated CaC2 applied alone or along with chemical fertilizer significantly increased

early emergence of panicle, number of tillers and paddy yield. Soil amended with

encapsulated CaC2 resulted in 20 % increased in paddy yield over NPK fertilizer alone.

Plant analysis also indicates that encapsulated CaC2 promoted N concentration and

uptake by plant, which is supported by the reduced oxidation of applied fertilizer NH4+ to

NH3- in the presence of encapsulated CaC2.

Zheng et al. (2004) studied the effect of nutrient solution on potted gerbera (Gerbera

Jamesinii “Shogun”) under recirculating sub irrigation conditions. Plants were grown

under one of four nutrient levels. Leaves from plants that received 10 % and 25 %

strength solution showed significantly less greenness than that of the plants that receive

15

50 % and 100 % strength nutrient solutions. There were intervienal chlorosis symptoms

on the younger leaves of some plants in the 10 % and 25 % strength nutrient treatments.

It is suspected that this intervienal chlorosis was due to iron (Fe) deficiency caused by the

increased substrate pH. Nutrient salts accumulated in the top section of the grown

substrate under all treatments levels; however, no phytotoxic effects were observed. No

differences in water use (141 ml plant-1 day-1) were observed among the various nutrient

levels. Fertilizer inputs were reduced in the 50 %, 25 % and 10% treatments by 54 %, 75

% and 90 % respectively, relative to the 100 % treatment. After 4 weeks under

recirculating conditions, the qualities of the nutrient solutions were still within acceptable

limits.

Ehret et al. (2005) studied the effect of non-recirculating (open) and nutrient system, or a

recirculating (closed) nutrient system with or without one of five amendments on

greenhouse roses. Recirculating had no effect on harvest parameters during the first 8

weeks of the harvest period, but had a negative impact on stem length during the second

8 weeks, and on stem number and length when averaged over the entire harvest duration.

Differences were not likely caused by changes in electrical conductivity or macro nutrient

concentrations of the nutrient solutions. Amendments to the recirculating solutions

consisted of increased concentrations of Ca, B or Si, reduced pH, or use of an adsorbent

resin to remove specific organic molecules. All amendments mitigated the negative

effects of recirculation on at least two harvest parameters, but only during the second half

of the harvest period. With the exception of the intentional changes, mineral status of the

nutrient solutions was similar in all recirculating treatments. It is likely that the reduction

in rose quality and quantity in recirculation is caused by a combination of factors, some

of which were ameliorated through the addition of specific amendments to the solution.

De et al, (2005) conducted an experiment to study the efficacy of some mulching

materials for soil moisture conservation and yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) in

summer under rain fed conditions. The mulches used were water hyacinth (WH), rice

straw (RS), banana leaves covered with grass (BL), jute stick (JS) and white polythene

sheet (PS). The WH mulch conserved more soil moisture than the other mulches. The soil

16

temperature at the root zone depth was also reduced with the use of WH mulch. The

mulches WH and RS manifested higher kernel yields of 0.67 and 0.61 t ha -1 respectively.

The soil moisture content with ridge planting method was 8.4 %, significant higher than

the planting method (7.3 %). Soil temperature with flat (33.7 C) and ridge (33.2 C)

planting method were statistically similar.

Henschke and Jerzy, (2006) conducted an experiment on height of shrubs, length of

developed shoots, number of flowers and flower diameter shrubs of five rose cultivars

from the ground cover group: Nozami, Alba Meidiland, The Fairy, Rote Max, Graf, and

Sommerabend. Mulching with pine bark layer of 5 or 10 cm thickness was achieved on

soil after planting of shrubs. The abundance of flowering in mulched shrubs increased

seven and sixteen times. They concluded that mulched shrubs were higher and produced

more shoot. Along with an increase in bark layer thickness, the height of plants also

increased.

Ramakrishna et al. (2006) studied the impact of mulching materials (polythene, rice straw

and chemical) on weed infestation, soil temperature, and soil moisture on groundnut

production. They recorded that polythene and straw mulch were effective in suppressing

the weed infestation. Polythene mulch increased the soil temperature in winter by about

6-8 C at 5 cm depth and by 4-8 C at 10 cm depth. Mulches prevent soil water

evaporation retaining soil moisture. Groundnut plants in polythene and straw mulched

plots were generally tall, vigorous and reached early flowering.

Szewezuk and Gudarowska, (2006) conducted an experiment to check the influence of

herbicide fallow; mulching with pine bark; and mulching with Black polypropylene

fabric in nectarine “Redgold” on seedling Prunus mandshurica. Using of plastic mulch

improved the cropping of the trees in the first two years of yielding. The total yield for 8

years was higher in the case of the trees mulched with polypropylene fabric, but no

significant differences were noted. Mulching with pine bark did not have the influence on

the cropping of nectarine trees during the 8 years of yielding. The tree vigor, expressed

by trunk cross- sectional area, was more intensive in the case of the trees mulched with

17

pine bark. Mulching with polypropylene fabric is the most advisable to control weeds in a

nectarine orchard because of the lowest application of active substances ha -1.

Wu et al. (2006) evaluated the effect of moss, sawdust or bark mulch and an un-mulched

control on three years old highbush blueberry plants. Results showed that the growth

under mulching treatment of “Bluecrop” were better than that under the control

treatment. In “ Bluecrop”, plant height and width, shoot length, dry weight of 100 leaves

and dry weight of roots were in the order of moss > bark > sawdust > control. The

photosynthetic rate and respiration increased in mulched plants compared to the control

and was in the order of moss > bark > sawdust. Mulching is an important method for

blueberry cultivation and moss mulching was found to be the best.

Amjad et al. (2007) studied the effect of plastic mulches in poly/plastic tunnel and

concluded that vegetative and reproductive traits of hot pepper hybrids significantly

improved by the application of plastic mulches in poly/plastic tunnels. Complete

inhibition of weed growth was also observed under black plastic mulch that could be

helpful to boost hot pepper production in poly/plastic tunnel.

Kar and Kumar, (2007) observed higher yield and better crop growth in the mulched

plots, which might be due to conservation of soil moisture and reduction of soil

temperature by 4-8 C. Straw mulch at a rate of 6 t ha-1 was applied during the first

earthing up in half of the plots to observe the variation of plant growth, water use

efficiency and tuber production between mulched and non-mulched plots. Two years of

pooled data with four irrigations resulted in air-dry tuber yields of 14.9 and 11.2 t ha -1 for

the mulched and non-mulched plots, respectively. Significantly (p<0.05) higher leaf area

index, water use efficiency and intercepted photo synthetically active radiation (IPAR)

were recorded in the mulched plots compared to the non-mulched plots under the same

irrigation treatment.

Mahajan et al. (2007) determined the effect of mulching in relation to irrigation and

planting method on soil temperature, weed control, baby corn growth, water use and yield

18

in maize. Their study revealed that plastic mulch increases baby corn yield by 18.9 % and

77.5 % over rice straw and unmulched treatment respectively. They also found that

plastic mulch at irrigation level of 0.8 ETc results into significant increase in the yield by

28.6 % over unmulched soil condition even it was irrigated at 1.2 Etc and resulted 30.6 %

of water saving.

Mahmood et al. (2007) reported that when different doses of calcium carbide (CaC2)

were tested at various growth stages of with and without nitrogen fertilizer (urea) in a pot

experiment. CaC2 was applied @ 15, 30 and 45 mg kg-1 soil with fertilizer @ 60 mg kg-1

soil at sowing, one, two and four weeks after sowing . Number of tillers, grain yield and

N uptake were significantly improved by the application of CaC2 plus NPK compared to

fertilizer alone and control. Reduction in plant height while increased tillering were

observed as inhibitory and stimulatory effects of calcium carbide. Maximum number of

tillers, grain yield and N uptake were observed by the application of 30 mg kg -1 among

doses of CaC2 while two weeks after sowing among time of application of CaC2 were

found better than all other treatments.

Baloach et al. (2008) tested a commercial foliar fertilizer, HiGrow which is a

composition of various macro and micronutrients on chilies at the concentrations 4, 5, 6,

7 and 8 mlL-1 water in addition to soil applied NPK fertilizers at 50-50-25 kg ha -1 to

investigate their associative effect on production of green chilies. HiGrow at 8 mlL -1

water resulted 68 cm plant height, 6.93 branches plant-1, 118.86 fruits plant-1, 4.19 cm

fruit length, 395g fresh chilies fruit weight plant-1 and 14977 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1;

while decreasing concentration to 7mlL-1 water produced 67.86 cm plant height, 6.53

branches plant-1 117.20 fruit plant-1, 4.14 cm fruit length, 391.33 g fresh chilies weight

plant-1 and 14562.33 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1. HiGrow at 6 mlL-1 water formed 66.46 cm

plant height, 5.80 branches plant-1, 112.36 fruits plant-1, 3.89 cm fruit length, 351.66 g

fresh chilies weight plant-1 and 12696.33 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1. Similarly, the reduced

HiGrow concentration to 5 mlL-1 and 4mlL-1 water caused significant negative effect on

all the growth and yield components of chilies. However, the control plots produced

63.46 cm plant height, 4.20 branches plant-1, 93.06 fruits plant-1, 2.87 cm fruit length,

388.33 g fresh chilies weight plant-1 and 10525.00 kg fresh chilies yield ha-1 which were

19

significantly lesser than foliar fed plots. There was a consecutive improvement in growth

and yield components of chilies with increase in HiGrow concentration, but such increase

beyond 7 ml L-1 water was not so pronounced and hence 7 ml L-1 water was considered to

be an optimum HiGrow concentration for commercial production of chilies.

Kayum et al. (2008) evaluated the potential of mulching material on growth and yield of

three different varieties with four mulching treatments viz. water hyacinth, straw, am-ada

leaf and banana leaf with a control (no mulch) under rain fed condition. The

combinations of mulching and variety exhibited significant variation in some yield

components and yield. The combination of water hyacinth and Ratan produced the

maximum yield (62.16 t/ha) and thus the experiment revealed that water hyacinth and

straw mulches have potentiality to increase the yield of tomato.

Peck et al. (2008) compared two varieties of bread wheat grown at six rates of Zn.

Including foliar application of Zn. The relative amount of gliadin and polymeric protein

were measured by size exclusion HPLC. Applying Zn increased grain yield at three sites

and altered protein quality at two of these. Foliar Zn applications doubled grain Zn

concentration, reduced the proportion of gliadin and SDS-unextractable polymeric

protein and increased the proportion of SDS-extractable polymeric protein. Heat stress

during grain filling was associated with a high proportion of gliadin and low proportions

of the polymeric protein in the grain. The results demonstrated that Zn nutrition can alter

protein composition and the effects of Zn may interact with grain filling temperatures.

Solaiman et al. (2008) examined the effect of black plastic mulch and concluded that

flower initiation with plants under black plastic mulch was earlier than the straw mulch or

control and was identical with water hyacinth mulch. It was might be due to the increased

soil temperature of black polythene mulch treatment, that was directly related to early

initiation of flower and the increased cumulative number of flowers.

20

CHAPTER 3

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Present research was carried out in Floriculture Research Area, Institute of Horticultural

Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. After site selection sample from

various blocks of field was collected to assess physio-chemical properties (pH, EC,

texture, organic matter) and fertility status of the soil. Soil was thoroughly prepared,

leveled and blocks were laid out according to the layout of the experiment. While laying

out, a basal dose of NPK was applied @ 100 kg per acre uniformly to all treatments.

There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and the Double Pearl (V2). The

experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each treatment was replicated four times.

Humic acid was applied @ 8% per plant. Paint coated calcium carbide was applied @

200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied by foliar application 5-6 ml per 100 ml.

The treatments were as under;

T0: Control

T1: Mulch

T2: Low tunnel

T3: Mulch + low tunnel

T4: Calcium carbide

T5: Humic acid

T6: Micronutrients

T7: Mulch + Calcium carbide

T8: Mulch + Humic acid

T9: Mulch + Micronutrients

Sowing of single variety was carried out in last week of January 2009 and sowing of

double variety was carried out in last week of February 2009 according to the treatments.

21

Micronutrients, humic acid and calcium carbide were applied when plants attain height of

2-3 inches. During the course of experiment, all other cultural practices like weeding,

plant protection measures, macronutrients application, earthing up etc. was similar for all

treatments. Plants were allowed to grow and data regarding growth, flowering and quality

indices was collected using standard procedures.

GROWTH INDICES:

3.1 Sprouting date

Sprouting date of all plants in each treatment was noted individually.

3.2 Sprouting percentage (%)

Sprouting was observed and noted by counting the sprouted bulb after 60 days for

single variety and 30 days for double variety from sowing. Then their percentage was

calculated.

3.3 Days to leave emergence

Data regarding first leave emergence was calculated from the date of sowing and

their date was calculated.

3.4 Number of leaves per plant

The total number of leaves per plant was counted from sprouting of 1st leave up to

end of research.

3.5 Leaf area (cm)

The leaf areas of the mature leaves of all plants in treatments were measured by

the leaf area meter. Leaf area was taken in centimeters.

3.6 Days to spike emergence

Total numbers of days were counted from sowing date to spike emergence date of

all plants individually in the experiment.

3.7 Plant height (cm)

The height of the plants was taken when plants get fully matured. The plant height

was measured in centimeters from the base of the plant to the top of the last floret.

22

3.8 Plant height at the time of tunnel removal

The heights of all the plants were noted at the date when low tunnels were

removed. The tunnel was removed at 28 April 2009.

FLOWER INDICES:

3.9 Florets emergence date (Days)

The total numbers of days were counted from the date of sowing to first floret

emergence date.

3.10 Number of florets per spike

The total numbers of florets per spike were counted of each plant in each

treatment when they get fully matured.

3.11 Length of spike (cm)

The total length of each spike was counted when they get fully matured. The

length was measured in centimeters.

3.12 Thickness of spike (mm)

The thickness of all the spikes in all plants was measured with the help of vernier

caliper in milli meters.

3.13 Floret diameter (mm)

The diameters of all the florets were measured with the help of vernier caliper in

milli meters.

QUALITY INDICES:

3.14 Color of florets

For color evaluation, the method of scoring was used. According to the method 5

judges were appointed who gave the points ranging from 1-12 to the flowers of each

treatment regarding to their color. For this purpose two spikes in each treatment was kept

in the competition.

23

3.15 Fragrance of florets

For fragrance evaluation, the method of scoring was used. According to the

method 5 judges were appointed who gave the points ranging from 1-12 to the flowers of

each treatment regarding to their fragrance. For this purpose two spikes in each treatment

was kept in the competition.

3.16 Earliness (Days)

Earliness of each treatment was calculated from the controlled treatment at the

end of experiment. The earliness was calculated in days.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Experiment was laid out according to Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD)

having ten treatments with four replications. Data regarding growth, flower and quality

indices were collected, compared and analyzed statistically according to Least Significant

Difference (LSD) test at 5 % level of probability.

24

CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION


Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to investigate the effect of

different techniques on extending the growth period and flowering quality of tuberose

(Polianthes tuberosa L.). There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and

the Double Pearl (V2). The experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each

treatment was replicated four times. Humic acid was applied @ 8 % per plant. Paint

coated calcium carbide was applied @ 200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied

by foliar application @ 5-6 ml per 100 ml. Experiment was laid out according to

Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Data regarding growth, flower and quality



There were ten treatments in the experiment and each treatment was replicated four

times. These treatments included T0 (Control), T1 (Mulch), T2 (Low tunnel), T3 (Mulch +

low tunnel), T4 (Calcium carbide), T5 (Humic acid), T6 (Micronutrients), T7 (Mulch +

Calcium carbide), T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients). Data were

recorded on the different parameters like Sprouting date, Sprouting percentage, Days to

leave emergence, Number of leaves per plant, Leaf area (cm), Days to spike emergence,

Plant height (cm), Plant height at the time of tunnel removal, Florets emergence date

(Days), Number of florets per spike, Length of spike (cm), Thickness of spike (mm),

Floret diameter (mm), Color of florets, Fragrance of florets, Earliness (Days).

The results obtained are interpreted below in order of their occurrence;

25

Table 4.1. Analysis of Variance for Sprouting Date of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 21.2 7.1

VARIETY 1 29291.9 29291.9

REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 1.4 0.5

TREATMENT 9 7792.2 865.8 38.01 **

ERROR 63 1435.2 22.8

TOTAL 79 38541.9

* = Significant (P<0.05); ** = Highly significant (P<0.01)

Table 4.1.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes tuberosa for variety

Variety Mean Homogeneous Groups

1 64.264 A

2 25.994 B

Table 4.1.2. LSD all-pairwise comparisons test of sprouting date of Polianthes tuberosa for treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T0

T1 T4

T2 T6

T3 T5

T4 T1

T5 T7

T6 T8

T7 T9

T8 T2

T9 T3

26

Fig. 4.1.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

tuberosa for treatment

020406080

100

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Single Variety

Fig. 4.1.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Date of Polianthes

tuberose for treatment

05

101520253035

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Double Variety

27

Analysis of variance of data regarding sprouting date shown in the table 4.1

illustrates that sprouting date of different treatments was significant at alpha level 0.05

indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in sprouting date. Mean

values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in table 4.1.1 which illustrate that

single variety took more days to sprout as compare to the double variety. Single variety

took 64.264 days and double variety took 25.994 days to sprout.

Mean values for comparison of treatments were subjected to Latin Square Design

test and their means are arranged in table 4.1.2 that illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low

tunnel) took 37.0375 days to sprout followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9 (Mulch +

Micronutrients) that took 43.425 and 60.875 days respectively. While the T0 (Control)

took 78.075 days for sprouting that are much long than the T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel).

Other treatments like T8, T7, T1, T5, T6 and T4 took 61.8, 63.9875, 63.9875, 77.625, 77.75

and 78.075 days respectively. Fig 4.1.3 and 4.1.4 shows the graphs for treatment means

for single and double variety respectively.

The observations can be compared with the results of Olasantan, (1999) showed

that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering.

Mulches also significantly increase the tuber yield of white yam plant.

28

Table 4.2. Analysis of Variance Table for Sprouting Percentage of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 826 275.3

VARIETY 1 29453 29452.8

REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 293 97.8

TREATMENT 9 83290 9254.5 12.30 **

ERROR 63 47412 752.6

TOTAL 79 161275


Table 4.2.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of Polianthes tuberosa for variety


2 64.250 A

1 25.875 B

Table 4.2.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of Polianthes tuberosa for treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T2

T1 T3

T2 T1

T3 T7

T4 T8

T5 T9

T6 T4

T7 T5

T8 T6

T9 T0

29

Fig. 4.2.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Polianthes tuberosa for treatment

020

406080

100120

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

rou

tin

g P

erc

en

tag

e

Single Variety

Fig. 4.2.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Sprouting Percentage of

Polianthes tuberosa for treatment

020

406080

100120

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

rou

tin

g P

erc

en

tag

e

Double Variety

30

Analysis of variance of data regarding sprouting percentage are shown in the table

4.1 illustrates that sprouting percentage of different treatments was significant at alpha

level 0.05 indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in sprouting

percentage. Mean values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in table 4.2.1

which illustrate that single variety had more sprouting percentage that was 64.250 % as

compare to the single variety that was 25.875 %.

Mean values for comparison of treatments were subjected to Latin Square Design

test and their means are arranged in table 4.1.2 that illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low

tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel) both had 100 % sprouting percentage followed by T1, T7, T8

and T9 that took 56.88, 47.50, 47.50 and 47.50 % sprouting percentage. While the T0

(Control) took 6.25 % sprouting percentage that are much long than the T3 (Mulch + Low

tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel). Other treatments like T4, T5 and T6 took 15 % sprouting

percentage each. Fig 4.2.3 and 4.2.4 shows the graphs for treatment means for single and

double variety respectively. Fig 4.2.3 shows that T4, T5 and T6 shows 0 % sprouting

percentage in single variety while in double variety T4, T5 and T6 shows 15 % sprouting

percentage. T7, T8 and T9 in double variety show the sprouting percentage of 97.5 % each

in double variety while in single variety same treatments shows 15 % sprouting

percentage. Over all response of Polianthes tuberosa towards sprouting percentage of

double variety was better than the single variety that is clearly mentioned in fig. 4.2.3 and

4.2.4.

The observations can be compared with the results of Olasantan, (1999) showed

that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering.

Mulches greatly improve the soil moisture contents and lower the soil temperature.

Mulches also significantly increase the tuber yield of white yam plant. These results also

match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that polyethylene and mulches

generally grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering.

31

Table 4.3 Analysis of Variance Table for Days to Leave Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum of

square

Mean

square

F


VARIETY 1 31099.8 31099.8


TREATMENT 9 7349.6 816.6 33.82 **

ERROR 63 1521.4 24.1

TOTAL 79 40009.3


Table 4.3.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 64.795 A

2 25.361 B

Table 4.3.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T0

T1 T4

T2 T6

T3 T5

T4 T1

T5 T7

T6 T8

T7 T9

T8 T2

T9 T3

32

Fig. 4.3.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of

Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

0

20

40

60

80

100

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Single Variety

Fig. 4.3.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Leave Emergence of


0

10

20

30

40

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Double Variety

33

Analysis of variance of data regarding days to leave emergence shown in the table

4.3 which illustrates that days to leave emergence of different treatments was significant

at alpha level 0.05 indicates that different treatments have a significant difference in days

to leave emergence. Mean values of the comparison of the two varieties are shown in

table 4.3.1 which illustrate that single variety took more days to emerge the leave as

compare to the double variety. Single variety took 64.795 days and double variety took

25.361 days to leaves emergence.

Comparison of means for days to leave emergence are shown in table 4.3.2 which

illustrate that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T2 (Low tunnel) took 44.3875 and 36.125

days for leaves emergence respectively followed by T9, T8 and T7 that took 63.425,

65.1225 and 64.3 days for leave emergence respectively. While the T0 (control) took

79.9125 days to leave emergence. Fig 4.3.3 and 4.3.4 shows the graphs for treatment

means for single and double variety respectively. Fig 4.3.3 shows that T4, T5 and T6

(Calcium carbide, Humic acid and Micronutrients) took 77.46, 75.9875 and 76.365 days

respectively for leaves emergence while the similar treatments for the double variety took

31.86364, 31 and 30.7 days respectively.

Over all response of Polianthes tuberosa towards the days to first leave

emergence of double variety is less than the single variety. This is due to the availability

of the water, weather conditions at the time of sowing of double and single variety,

adoptability to the particular environment because double variety is sown very rare in this

climatic conditions as compare to the single variety.

These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) showed

that tunnel and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering that

ultimately reduces the days to leave emergence.

34

Table 4.4. Analysis of Variance Table for Number of Leaves per Plant of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 22.617 7.53909

VARIETY 1 0.405 0.40518


TREATMENT 9 77.466 8.60730 4.02 **

ERROR 63 134.933 2.14180

TOTAL 79 247.128


Table 4.4.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 16.886 A

2 16.744 A

Table 4.4.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T1

T1 T4

T2 T5

T3 T2

T4 T0

T5 T3

T6 T6

T7 T7

T8 T9

T9 T8

35

Fig 4.4.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of


13.00

14.00

15.00

16.00

17.00

18.00

19.00

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatmants

No

. o

f L

ea

ve

s

Single Variety

Fig 4.4.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Leaves per Plant of


0

5

10

15

20

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

No

. o

f L

ea

ve

s

Double Variety

36

Analysis of variance of data regarding number of leaves per plant shown in the

table 4.4 which illustrates that number of leaves per plant of different treatments was

significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have not very

significant difference in number of leaves per plant. Mean values of the comparison of

the two varieties are shown in table 4.4.1 which illustrate that both single and double

varieties have not significant differences in case of number of leaves per plant. Mean for

both single and double varieties for number of leaves per plant were 16.886 and 16.744

respectively.

Comparisons of means for number of leaves per plant are shown in table 4.4.2

which illustrates that T1 (Mulch) have 18.206 numbers of leaves per plant followed by T4

(Calcium carbide) and T5 (Humic acid) with 17.687, 17.500 number of leaves

respectively. While the T8 had lowest numbers of leaves with 14.792. Fig. 4.4.3 and 4.4.4

shows the graphs for number of leaves per plant for single and double variety

respectively which shows not significant difference between the both varieties in case of

numbers of leaves per plant.

These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) showed

that mulch greatly effect on the number of leaves per plants, vine diameter and leaf area

in plants than the other treatments. These results were also similar with the results of

Karaye and Yakubu, (2006) that number of leaves per plant, weed growth and yield

responded significantly to mulching.

37

Table 4.5. Analysis of Variance Table for Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 11217.2 11217.2


TREATMENT 9 2714.3 301.6 3.92 **

ERROR 63 4846.5 76.9

TOTAL 79 18887.8


Table 4.5.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


2 75.998 A

1 52.315 B

Table 4.5.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T1

T1 T2

T2 T0

T3 T3

T4 T4

T5 T8

T6 T5

T7 T9

T8 T6

T9 T7

38

Fig. 4.5.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

0

20

40

60

80

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Le

af

Are

a (

cm

)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.5.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Leaf Area of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

0

20

40

60

80

100

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Le

af

Are

a (

cm

)

Double Variety

39

Analysis of variance of data regarding leaf area of Polianthes tuberosa shown in

the table 4.5 which illustrates that leaf areas of different treatments were significant at

alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in

leaf area (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to Latin Square

Design test which illustrated that double variety have 75.998 cm and single variety have

52.315 cm leaf area.

Comparisons of means of leaf area for different treatments shown in table 4.5.2

which illustrates that T1 (Mulch) had highest leaf area that is 74.350 cm followed by T2

and T0 with leaf area of 72.013 and 70.300 cm. While the T7 (Much + Calcium carbide)

have lowest leaf area than the all other treatments. Fig. 4.5.3 and 4.5.4 shows the graphs

for leaf area for single and double variety respectively which shows significant difference

between the both varieties in case of leaf areas. In single variety the leaf area of T3

(Mulch + Low tunnel) is very less as compared to the double variety that is 41.15 cm and

92.25 cm respectively. But there is no considerable differences in leaf areas of T1

(Mulch).

These findings are very similar with the findings of the Olasantan, (1999) that

mulch greatly effect on the vine diameter and leaf area in plants than the other treatments.

40

Table 5.6. Analysis of Variance Table for Days to Spike Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 27569.8 27569.8


TREATMENT 9 7338.4 815.4 32.93 **

ERROR 63 1559.9 24.8

TOTAL 79 36485.8


Table 5.6.1. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 73.438 A

2 36.310 B

Table 5.6.2. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T0

T1 T5

T2 T4

T3 T6

T4 T7

T5 T1

T6 T8

T7 T9

T8 T2

T9 T3

41

Fig. 5.6.3. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of


0

20

40

60

80

100

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Single Variety

Fig. 5.6.4. LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Days to Spike Emergence of


0

10

20

30

40

50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Days

Double Variety

42

Analysis of variance of data regarding days to spike emergence of Polianthes

tuberosa shown in the table 4.6 illustrates that spike emergence of different treatments

were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have

significant differences in leaf area (cm2). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are

subjected to Latin Square Design test which illustrated that single variety took 73.438

days and double variety took 36.310 days to spike emergence. There is very considerable

difference between the two varieties in case of number of days to spike emergence.

Comparisons of means of days to leaf emergence of Polianthes tuberosa for

different treatments shown in table 4.6.2 which illustrates that T0 (Control) took 65.101

days while the T3 took 36.026 days for the spike emergence followed by T2 (Low tunnel)

and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 41.504 and 52.414 days respectively. Fig 4.6.3 and

4.6.4 are for the comparison of means for the days to spike emergence for single and

double variety respectively.

These results also match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that

polyethylene and mulches prevent soil water evaporation retaining soil moisture.

Generally plants grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering by producing early

spike production.

43

Table 4.7 Analysis of Variance Table for Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 667.34 222.447

VARIETY 1 169.32 169.323


TREATMENT 9 1128.09 125.343 2.80 **

ERROR 63 2816.39 44.705

TOTAL 79 4818.16


Table 4.7.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 97.814 A

2 94.904 A

Table 4.7.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T9

T1 T7

T2 T5

T3 T4

T4 T8

T5 T6

T6 T3

T7 T1

T8 T2

T9 T0

44

Fig. 4.7.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

70

80

90

100

110

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Pla

nt

He

igh

t (c

m)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.7.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

70

80

90

100

110

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

TREATMENTS

Pla

nt

He

igh

t (c

m)

Double Variety

45

Analysis of variance of data regarding plant height of Polianthes tuberosa shown

in the table 4.7 illustrates that plant height of different treatments were significant at

alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in

plant height (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to Latin Square

Design test which illustrated that single variety have mean of 97.814 (cm) and double

variety have mean of 94.904 (cm). There is no considerable difference between the both

varieties in case of plant height.

Comparisons of means of plant height of Polianthes tuberosa for different

treatments shown in table 4.7.2 which illustrates that T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients)

attained height of 102.81 (cm) more as compared to other treatments followed by the T7

(Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T5 (Humic acid) that attained height of 99.83 and 98.50

cm respectively. While the T0 (Control) attained the height of 89.41 cm that is lowest

from all the other treatments. Fig. 4.7.3 and 7.7.4 showed the graphs for treatment means

of single and double variety respectively. There is no considerable difference between the

heights of plant in both varieties and are almost similar to each other.

These observations are similar with the observations of Chaudhry et al., (2004)

that maximum plant height was observed under mulching through mechanical loosning of

indicating that mechanical loosening of soil had some positive impact on plant height

where as non application of mulching material had the minimum plant height.

46

Table 4.8 Analysis of Variance Table for Plant Height When Tunnel RemovedSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 551.92 551.921


TREATMENT 9 6122.46 680.273 23.69 **

ERROR 63 1808.85 28.712

TOTAL 79 8489.76


Table 4.8.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel Removed for Variety


2 26.032 A

1 20.779 B

Table 4.8.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel Removed for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T3

T1 T2

T2 T1

T3 T6

T4 T5

T5 T4

T6 T0

T7 T9

T8 T7

T9 T8

47

Fig. 4.8.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel

Removed for Treatment

0

10

20

30

40

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Pla

nt

He

igh

t (c

m)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.8.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Plant Height When Tunnel

Removed for Treatment

0

20

40

60

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Pla

nt

He

igh

t (c

m)

Double Variety

48

Analysis of variance of data regarding plant height when low tunnel were

removed of Polianthes tuberosa shown in the table 4.8 illustrates that plant height at the

time of low tunnel removal of different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05

which indicates that different treatments have significant differences in plant height at the

time of tunnel removal (cm). Comparison of the mean of both varieties are subjected to

Latin Square Design test which illustrated that double variety have mean of 26.032 (cm)

and single variety have mean of 20.779 (cm). There is no considerable difference

between the both varieties in case of plant height at the time of tunnel removed. The

plastic tunnels were removed at 28th of April when the outside temperature of the

environment were high as compared to the temperature at the time of sowing date.

Comparisons of means of plant height at the time of tunnel removal of Polianthes

tuberosa for different treatments were arranged in table 4.8.2 which illustrates that T3

(Mulch + Low tunnel) attained the more height as compared to the other treatments that

were 42.504 cm followed by T2 and T1 that attained heights of 36.805 and 25.114 cm

respectively. While the T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) were the lowest with the height of

14.711 cm. there is considerable difference between the T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T8

(Mulch + Humic acid). Fig 4.8.3 and 4.8.4 shows the comparison of means of single and

double varieties respectively.

These observations are similar with the observations of Solaiman et al., (2008)

that healthier vegetative growth observed with the plants under black plastic mulch while

minimum plant height and yield obtained in control.

49

Table 4.9. Analysis of Variance Table for Floret Emergence Date of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 733 244

VARIETY 1 301855 301855

REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 135 45

TREATMENT 9 5049 561 23.37 **

ERROR 63 1512 24

TOTAL 79 309285


Table 7.9.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 235.49 A

2 112.63 B

Table 4.9.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T0

T1 T4

T2 T5

T3 T6

T4 T1

T5 T2

T6 T7

T7 T9

T8 T8

T9 T3

50

Fig. 4.9.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Emergence Date of


200

220

240

260

280

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

da

ys

Singe Variety



020406080

100120140

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Double Variety

51

Analysis of variance of data regarding floret emergence date of Polianthes

tuberosa as shown in the table 4.9 illustrates that floret emergence date of different

treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments

have significant differences in floret emergence date. Comparison of the means of both

varieties of Polianthes tuberosa were shown in table 4.9.1 which illustrated that double

variety took 112.63 days as compared to the single variety that took 235.49 days for the

floret emergence date. There is very prominent difference between the both varieties in

case of the floret emergence date of Polianthes tuberosa.

Comparisons of the means of treatments of both varieties were arranged in table

4.9.2 which illustrated that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 162.42 days to emerge the

florets followed by T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with

169.05 and 169.72 days respectively. While the T0 (Control) took the highest number of

days to emerge the florets. There is very significant difference between the T3 (Mulch +

Low tunnel) and T0 (Control). Fig. 4.9.3 and 4.9.4 shows the comparison of means

number of days to floret emergence of single and double varieties respectively.

These results also match with the results of Ramakrishna et al., (2006) that

polyethylene and mulches generally grow vigorously, tall and reached early flowering.

These results also favors the findings of Olasantan, (1999) that tunnel and mulch had

great impact in the early season growth and flowering.

52

Table 4.10 Analysis of Variance Table for Number of Florets per Spike of Polianthes tuberosa

Source DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 321.49 321.486


TREATMENT 9 425.93 47.325 3.39 **

ERROR 63 880.08 13.970

TOTAL 79 1781.62


Table 4.10.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 37.578 A

2 33.569 B

Table 4.10.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T6

T1 T3

T2 T8

T3 T2

T4 T1

T5 T0

T6 T5

T7 T4

T8 T7

T9 T9

53



0

10

20

30

40

50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

No

. o

f F

lore

ts

Single Variety

Fig. 4.10.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Number of Florets per Spike of


0

10

20

30

40

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

No

. o

f F

lore

ts

Double Variety

54

Analysis of variance of data regarding number of florets per spike of Polianthes

tuberosa as shown in the table 4.10 illustrates that number of florets per spike of plant of

different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different

treatments have significant differences in number of florets per spike of the plant.

Comparisons of means of both varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in

table 4.10.1 which illustrated that single variety have 37.578 florets per spike while the

double variety have 33.569 florets per spike in comparison to the single variety. There is

significant difference between the numbers of florets per spike of Polianthes tuberosa.

Mean comparisons for the number of florets per spike were subjected to Latin

Square Design Test and arranged in order in table 4.10.2 which showed that T6

(Micronutrients) showed highest numbers of florets per spike with 38.042 followed by T3

(Mulch + low tunnel) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) with 37.700 and 37.354 number of

florets respectively. While T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) showed 31.042 florets per spike

of Polianthes tuberosa. Fig.4.10.3 and 4.10.4 showed the comparison means of numbers

of florets per spike of single and double variety of Polianthes tuberosa respectively. It

showed that in single variety there were 42.56579 numbers of florets per spike while

double variety there were 32.833 numbers of florets per spike. It clearly showed the

difference between the single and double variety of tuberose in term of number of florets

per spike of the plants.

These results also favors the findings of Kumar and Arora (2000) that

micronutrients revealed earliness in flowering, increases the number of leaves and

number of florets, weight of spike and size of florets.

55

Table 4.11 Analysis of Variance Table for Spike Length of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 3.99 3.985


TREATMENT 9 1750.43 194.492 17.98 **

ERROR 63 681.49 10.817

TOTAL 79 2473.82


Table 4.11.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


2 41.970 A

1 41.524 A

Table 4.11.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T8

T1 T7

T2 T9

T3 T3

T4 T4

T5 T6

T6 T0

T7 T5

T8 T1

T9 T2

56

Fig. 4.11.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes

tuberosa for Treatment

0

10

2030

40

50

60

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

ike

Le

ng

th (

cm

)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.11.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Length of Polianthes


0

20

40

60

80

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

ike

Le

ng

th (

cm

)

Double Variety

57

Analysis of variance of data regarding length of spike of Polianthes tuberosa as

shown in the table 4.11 illustrates that length of florets per spike of plant of different

treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different treatments

have significant differences in spike length of the plant. Comparisons of means of both

varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in table 4.11.1 which illustrated that

double variety have more spike length that were 41.970 cm as compared to the double

variety with 41.524 cm. there is no considerable difference between the both varieties in

case of spike length of a plant.

Mean comparisons for the spike length were subjected to Latin Square Design

Test and arranged in order in table 4.11.2 which illustrated that T8 (Mulch + Humic acid)

attained highest length that were 54.106 cm per spike followed by T7 and T9 with 45.581

and 42.700 cm respectively. While the T2 (Low Tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less

heights with 37.393 and 37.993 cm respectively. There is considerable difference

between T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T2 (Low Tunnel). Fig. 4.11.3 and 4.11.4 showed

the comparisons of means of treatments for both single and double variety respectively.

These results also favors the findings of Wu et al. (2006) that In “ Bluecrop”,

plant height and width, spike length, dry weight of 100 leaves and dry weight of roots

were increased by the use of different mulching material. But these results are opposite

with the findings of Abdel et al. (2007) that humic acid along with doses of NPK reduces

the spike length and number of branches per plant.

58

Table 4.12. Analysis of Variance Table for Spike Thickness of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 0.9552 0.31838

VARIETY 1 0.5155 0.51553


TREATMENT 9 8.8482 0.98313 2.89 **

ERROR 63 21.4023 0.33972

TOTAL 79 31.9768


Table 4.12.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


2 5.5543 A

1 5.3937 A

Table 4.12.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T6

T1 T7

T2 T9

T3 T8

T4 T5

T5 T0

T6 T3

T7 T4

T8 T1

T9 T2

59

Fig. 4.12.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes


01234567

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

ike

Th

ick

ne

ss

(m

m)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.12.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Spike Thickness of Polianthes


01234567

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Sp

ike T

hic

kn

ess (

mm

)

Double Variety

60

Analysis of variance of data regarding thickness of spike of Polianthes tuberosa

as shown in the table 4.12 illustrates that thickness of florets per spike of plant of

different treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicates that different

treatments have significant differences in spike thickness of the plant. Comparisons of

means of both varieties were subjected to Latin Square Design Test in table 4.12.1 which

illustrated that double variety attained more spike thickness (5.5543 mm) as compared to

the single variety (5.3937 mm). There is little difference in spike thickness between the

single variety and double variety.

Mean comparisons for the spike thickness were subjected to Latin Square Design

Test and arranged in order in table 4.12.2 which illustrated that T6 (Micronutrients) were

6.1438 mm followed by T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T9 (Mulch + Micro nutrients)

with 5.8550 and 5.7225 mm in thickness respectively. While T2 (Low tunnel) and T1

(Mulch) attained less thickness with 5.1380 and 5.1386 mm thick respectively. There is

very little difference between the T6 (Micronutrients) and T2 (Low tunnel) in case of

thickness. Fig 4.12.3 and 4.13.4 showed the graphs for treatments of single and double

variety respectively.

These results also favors the findings of Kumar and Arora (2000) that

micronutrients revealed earliness in flowering, increases the number of leaves and

number of florets, weight of spike by thickening the spike, increases plant height and size

of florets.

61

Table 4.13. Analysis of Variance Table for Floret Diameter of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 106.54 106.540


TREATMENT 9 678.82 75.425 17.00 **

ERROR 63 279.48 4.436

TOTAL 79 1070.54


Table 4.13.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 34.766 A

2 32.458 B

Table 4.13.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T6

T1 T9

T2 T0

T3 T2

T4 T1

T5 T4

T6 T3

T7 T5

T8 T8

T9 T7

62

Fig. 4.13.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes


0

10

20

30

40

50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Flo

ret

Dia

mete

r (m

m)

Single Variety

Fig. 4.13.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Floret Diameter of Polianthes


0

10

20

30

40

50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Flo

ret

Dia

mete

r (m

m)

Double Variety

63

Analysis of variance of data regarding floret diameter of Polianthes tuberosa as

shown in the table 4.13 illustrated that floret diameter of plant of different treatments


significant differences in floret diameter of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of

both varieties were procured and arranged in table 4.13.1 which showed that single

variety have more floret diameter with 34.766 mm as compared to the 32.458 mm of

double variety. There is little difference between two varieties in term of floret diameter

Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments were arranged in table

4.13.3 which showed that T6 (Micronutrients) took highest floret diameter with 40.277

mm followed by T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) and T0 (Control) with diameter of 36.837

and 34.681 mm respectively. But T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T8 (Mulch + Humic

acid) took the lowest floret diameter with 30.285 and 30.385 mm respectively. Fig. 4.13.3

and 4.13.4 illustrated the graphical representation of means comparisons of treatments for

single and double variety respectively. There is no very considerable difference among

the treatment of both varieties.

These observations are similar with the results of Kumar and Arora (2000)

that micronutrients increases the number of leaves and number of florets, weight of spike

by thickening the spike, increases plant height and size of florets by increasing the floret

diameter of the plants.

64

Table 4.14 Analysis of Variance Table for Color of Florets of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 1.904E-29 6.347E-30

VARIETY 1 567.113 567.113

REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 4.995E-30 1.665E-30

TREATMENT 9 31.6125 3.51250 19.22 **

ERROR 63 11.5125 0.18274

TOTAL 79 610.238


Table 4.14.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 8.6500 A

2 3.3250 B

Table 4.14.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T3

T1 T1

T2 T9

T3 T2

T4 T6

T5 T7

T6 T4

T7 T8

T8 T0

T9 T5

65

Fig. 4.14.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes


0

24

6

810

12

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Co

lor

Single Variety

Fig. 4.14.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Color of Florets of Polianthes


0

1

2

3

4

5

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Co

lor

Double Variety

66

Analysis of variance of data regarding color of florets of Polianthes tuberosa as

shown in the table 4.14 illustrated that color of the floret of plant of different treatments


significant differences in color of florets of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of

both varieties were arranged in table 4.14.1 which showed that single variety have more

attractive and shinning creamy whitish floret color as compared to the of double variety

with less shinning florets color. According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks

in comparison to the double variety which got 3.3250 marks of floret color. There is very

clear difference between the two varieties in case of floret color parameter.

Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments about the floret color were

arranged in table 4.15.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks

of floret color followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and

6.3750 marks respectively. But T5 (Humic acid) took 5.0000 marks from the judges with

lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. There is considerable

difference between T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T5 (Humic acid) in case of marks of

floret color. Fig. 4.15.3 and 4.15.4 showed the comparisons of the means of treatment for

single and double variety respectively. These graphs clearly showed that there is clear

difference in each treatment of both varieties where single variety got more marks as

compared to the double variety.

These results are similar with the findings of Rodrigues et al. (1999) that

significant differences in flower production and quality, using the mulched system as

compared to the other treatments.

67

Table 4.15 Analysis of Variance Table for Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F

REPLICATION 3 9.316E-29 3.105E-29

VARIETY 1 567.113 567.113

REPLICATI*VARIETY 3 2.217E-29 7.389E-30

TREATMENT 9 31.6125 3.51250 19.22 **

ERROR 63 11.5125 0.18274

TOTAL 79 610.238


Table 4.15.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 8.6500 A

2 3.3250 B

Table 4.15.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T3

T1 T1

T2 T9

T3 T2

T4 T6

T5 T7

T6 T4

T7 T8

T8 T0

T9 T5

68

Fig. 4.15.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

02

46

810

12

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Fra

gra

nc

e

Single Variety

Fig. 4.15.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Fragrance of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

0

1

2

3

4

5

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Fra

gra

nc

e

Double Variety

69

Analysis of variance of data regarding fragrance of florets of Polianthes tuberosa

as shown in the table 4.15 illustrated that fragrance of the floret of plant of different

treatments were significant at alpha level 0.05 which indicated that different treatments

have significant differences in fragrance of florets of the plants. Data of the mean

comparisons of both varieties were arranged in table 4.15.1 which showed that single

variety have more fragrant as compared to the of double variety with less fragrant.

According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks in comparison to the double

variety which got 3.3250 marks of fragrance of the florets. There is very clear difference

between the two varieties in case of fragrance of the floret parameter.

Data regarding to the mean comparisons of treatments about the fragrance were

arranged in table 4.15.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks

of fragrance followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and


lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. There is considerable

difference between T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) and T5 (Humic acid) in case of marks of the

fragrant florets. Fig. 4.15.3 and 4.15.4 showed the comparisons of the means of treatment

for single and double variety respectively. These graphs clearly showed that there is clear

difference in each treatment of both varieties where single variety got more marks as

compared to the double variety.

More fragrance that found in the single variety and less found in double variety

was due to the genetic bases of the both varieties.

70

Table 4.16 Analysis of Variance Table for Earliness of Polianthes tuberosaSource DF Sum Of

Square

Mean

Square

F


VARIETY 1 12168.1 12168.1


TREATMENT 9 30916.1 3435.1 32.97 **

ERROR 63 6564.1 104.2

TOTAL 79 49691.9


Table 4.16.1 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa for Variety


1 36.796 A

2 16.690 B

Table 4.16.2 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa for Treatment

Original

Order

Ranked

Order

T0 T3

T1 T2

T2 T6

T3 T9

T4 T1

T5 T6

T6 T8

T7 T4

T8 T5

T9 T0

71

Fig. 4.16.3 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

0

10

20

30

40

50

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Single Variety

Fig. 4.16.4 LSD All-Pairwise Comparisons Test of Earliness of Polianthes tuberosa

for Treatment

0

5

10

15

20

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Treatments

Da

ys

Double Variety

72

Analysis of variance of data regarding earliness of Polianthes tuberosa as shown

in the table 4.16 illustrated that earliness of plants of different treatments were significant

at alpha level 0.05 which indicated that different treatments have significant differences

in earliness of the plants. Data of the mean comparisons of both varieties were arranged

in table 4.16.1 which showed that single variety created more earliness as compared to

the of double variety. Single variety created earliness 36.796 days as compared to the

double variety that created 16.690 days of earliness. It means that single variety created

20.106 days of earliness than the double variety.

Data regarding to the comparison of means of treatments were shown in table

4.16.2 which showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) created more earliness of 41.100 days

followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 36.277 and 30.612

days respectively. While the T5 (Humic acid) and T4 (Calcium carbide) showed lowest

earliness of 12.505 and 18.836 days respectively. Fig. 4.16.3 and 4.16.4 showed the

comparison of means of single and double variety respectively.

These results are also similar with the findings of Olasantan, (1999) that tunnel

and mulch had great impact in the early season growth and flowering that ultimately

reduces the days to spout and as a result early flowering occurred..

73

CHAPTER 5

SUMMARY


Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan to investigate the effects of

different techniques on extending the growth period and flowering quality of tuberose

(Polianthes tuberosa L.). There were two cultivars of tuberose Single Mexican (V1) and

the Double Pearl (V2). The experiment was consisting of ten treatments and each

treatment was replicated four times. Humid acid was applied @ 8 % per plant. Paint

coated calcium carbide was applied @ 200 mg per plant and micronutrients was applied

by foliar application @ 5-6 ml per 100 ml. Experiment was laid out according to

Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). Data regarding growth, flower and quality



There were ten treatments in the experiment and each treatment was replicated four

times. These treatments included T0 (Control), T1 (Mulch), T2 (Low tunnel), T3 (Mulch +

low tunnel), T4 (Calcium carbide), T5 (Humic acid), T6 (Micronutrients), T7 (Mulch +

Calcium carbide), T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients). Data were

recorded on the different parameters like Sprouting date, Sprouting percentage, Days to

leave emergence, Number of leaves per plant, Leaf area (cm), Days to spike emergence,

Plant height (cm), Plant height at the time of tunnel removal, Florets emergence date

(Days), Number of florets per spike, Length of spike (cm), Thickness of spike (mm),

Floret diameter (mm), Color of florets, Fragrance of florets, Earliness (Days).

Observation recorded on sprouting date showed that T3 took fewer days (25.883) to

sprout while the T2 (Low tunnel) were at 2nd position with 31.567 days. All treatments

were sprouted earlier than the T0 (Control) that was sprouted after 55.277 days.

Results showed that the sprouting percentage of double variety were better than the single

variety and among the treatments low tunnel and mulch + low tunnel showed 100 %

results in both varieties but mulch + Calcium carbide, mulch + humic acid and mulch +

74

micronutrients in double variety showed 97.5 % sprouting percentage but T0 were last

with 0 % and 12.5 % sprouting percentage of single and double variety respectively.

In case of parameter days to leave emergence T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) was at the top with

36.125 days and T2 (Low tunnel) was 2nd with 44.3875 days to leave emergence. T0

(Control) was last with 55.888 days. Double variety performed better than single variety

with 25.361 days while single variety took 64.795 days to leave emergence.

Data regarding to number of leaves per plant showed that both single and double varieties

were equal in number of leaves per plant with 16.886 and 16.744 respectively. But the T1

(Mulch) have 18.206 numbers of leaves per plant followed by T4 (Calcium carbide)

17.687. T8 (Mulch + humic acid) had lowest numbers of leaves with 14.792.

Observations about leaf area illustrated that double variety have 75.998 cm and single

variety have 52.315 cm leaf area. T1 (Mulch) had highest leaf area that is 74.350 cm

followed by T2 (Low tunnel) with 72.013 cm. While the T7 (Much + Calcium carbide)

have lowest leaf area than the all other treatments.

Parameter days to spike emergence showed similar results as the findings of days to leave

emergence. But T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) was at the top with 36.026 days and T2 (Low

tunnel) was 2nd with 41.504 days to leave emergence. T0 (Control) was last with

65.101days. Double variety took 36.310 days for spike emergence and single variety took

73.438 days for spike emergence.

Data about plant height illustrated that single variety have mean of 97.814 cm and double

variety have mean of 94.904 cm plant height. T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) attained height

of 102.81 cm more as compared to other treatments followed by the T7 (Mulch +

Calcium carbide) with 99.83 cm. While the T0 (Control) attained the height of 89.41 cm

that is lowest from all the other treatments

Observations about plant height at the time of tunnel removal illustrated that double

variety have mean of 26.032 (cm) and single variety have mean of 20.779 (cm). In case

of treatments, T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) attained the more height that were 42.504 cm as

compared to the other treatments followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) that

attained heights of 36.805 and 25.114 cm respectively. While the T8 (Mulch + Humic

acid) were the lowest with the height of 14.711 cm.

75

Results about floret emergence date illustrated that double variety took 112.63 days as

compared to the single variety that took 235.49 days for the floret emergence date. T3

(Mulch + Low tunnel) took 162.42 days to emerge the florets followed by T8 (Mulch +

Humic acid) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 169.05 and 169.72 days respectively.

While the T0 (Control) took the highest number of days to emerge the florets.

Results about numbers of florets per spike illustrated that single variety have 37.578

florets per spike while the double variety have 33.569 florets per spike in comparison to

the single variety. But in T6 (Micronutrients) showed highest numbers of florets per spike

with 38.042 followed by T3 (Mulch + low tunnel) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) with

37.700 and 37.354 number of florets per spike. While T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients)

showed 31.042 florets per spike of Polianthes tuberosa.

Data about spike length illustrated that double variety have more spike length that were

41.970 cm as compared to the double variety with 41.524 cm. But the results about

treatments showed that T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) attained highest length that were 54.106

cm per spike followed by T7 and T9 with 45.581 and 42.700 cm respectively. While the T2

(Low Tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less heights with 37.393 and 37.993 cm

respectively.

Observations about thickness of spike of Polianthes tuberosa illustrated that double

variety attained more spike thickness (5.5543 mm) as compared to the single variety

(5.3937 mm). In case of treatments T6 (Micronutrients) were 6.1438 mm followed by T7

(Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T9 (Mulch + Micro nutrients) with 5.8550 and 5.7225 mm

in thickness respectively. While T2 (Low tunnel) and T1 (Mulch) attained less thickness

with 5.1380 and 5.1386 mm thick respectively.

Finding about floret diameter showed that single variety have more floret diameter with

34.766 mm as compared to the 32.458 mm of double variety. In case of treatments results

showed that T6 (Micronutrients) took highest floret diameter with 40.277 mm followed by

T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) and T0 (Control) with diameter of 36.837 and 34.681 mm

respectively. But T7 (Mulch + Calcium carbide) and T8 (Mulch + Humic acid) took the

lowest floret diameter with 30.285 and 30.385 mm respectively.

Observations regarding to the color of florets showed that single variety have more

attractive and shinning creamy whitish floret color as compared to the double variety

76

with less shinning florets color. According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks

in comparison to the double variety which got 3.3250 marks of floret color. But the

treatments T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks of floret color followed by T1

(Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and 6.3750 marks respectively. But

T5 (Humic acid) took 5.0000 marks from the judges with lowest marks followed by T 0

(Control) with 5.2500 marks.

Observations about fragrance showed that T3 (Mulch + Low tunnel) took 7.0000 marks of

fragrance followed by T1 (Mulch) and T9 (Mulch + Micronutrients) with 6.8750 and


lowest marks followed by T0 (Control) with 5.2500 marks. In case of variety showed that

single variety have more fragrant as compared to the double variety with less fragrant.

According to the judges single variety got 8.6500 marks in comparison to the double

variety which got 3.3250 marks of fragrance of the florets.

Findings about the earliness showed that single variety created more earliness as

compared to the double variety. Single variety created earliness 36.796 days as compared

to the double variety that created 16.690 days of earliness. It means that single variety

created 20.106 days of earliness than the double variety. In case of treatments, T3 (Mulch

+ Low tunnel) created more earliness of 41.100 days followed by T2 (Low tunnel) and T9

(Mulch + Micronutrients) with 36.277 and 30.612 days respectively. While the T5

(Humic acid) and T4 (Calcium carbide) showed lowest earliness of 12.505 and 18.836

days respectively.

77

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