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Agronomic Biofortification with Zinc and Iron Improves Yield and Nutrient Content of Bread Wheat
The rapid progress in developing high yielding wheat varieties during the past also led to significant decline in Zn and Fe content in the grain due to the dilution effect. The Zn and Fe deficiency in cereal grain posed serious health issues in the human being. Zn and Fe content of the grain can be increased either by genetic or agronomic biofortification. A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of agronomic bio-fortification with Zn and Fe on yield, yield attributes, and grain Zn and Fe content of normal and biofortified wheat varieties during winter season of 2021-2022 at Rampur, Chitwan. The experiment was laid out in strip-split plot design with twelve treatments and three replications. The treatments consisted of two varieties of wheat (Zinc Gahun 2 and Vijay) in vertical plots, two iron levels (0 and 10 kg Fe ha-1 soil application) in horizontal plots and three levels of zinc (0, 10, and 20 kg Zn ha-1 soil application) in sub plots. The results revealed that Zinc Gahun 2 produced higher grain yield (4821 kg ha-1), grain zinc content (40.47 mg kg-1) and grain Fe content (39.29 mg kg-1) followed by Vijay (4271 kg ha-1, 31.42 mg kg-1 and 32.61 mg kg-1). Similarly, soil application of Fe at 10 kg ha-1 and Zn at 20 kg ha-1 produced significantly higher grain yield (P< 0.05) (10.04% and 10.11%, respectively) than control. The Zn content increased with increasing Zn levels but decreases with an increase in Fe levels and vice-versa due to their antagonistic effect. Therefore, fertilization of micronutrients (zinc and iron) in both biofortified and non-biofortified wheat varieties is one of the best approaches for farmers to harvest higher yield with enriched Zn and Fe content in their wheat grains.
Copyright (c) 2025 The Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of Weed Management Practices on Growth, Yield, and Profitability of Hybrid Maize at Dang, Nepal
Weeds pose a major challenge in maize cultivation, resulting in financial losses for farmers and becoming a major burden. To achieve financial sustainability for hybrid maize growers, understanding the effect of weeds on growth, yield, and profitability is important. We examined the effect of various weed management practices on the growth, yield, weed dynamics, and profitability of hybrid maize in Dang, Nepal. Organized in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications, our experiment included five treatments: atrazine at the rate of 1 kg a.i. ha-1, two-hand weeding at the rate of 20 and 40 DAS, black on silver plastic mulching, power weeder at the rate of 20 and 40 DAS, and a weedy check. The results revealed that treatment black-on-silver plastic mulching led to the highest grain yield (9.91 t ha-1), significantly outperforming the atrazine treatment, two-hand weeding, power weeder, and weedy check treatments. We found 15 different weed species across six plant families, with broadleaf and grassy weeds predominating over sedge weeds during the initial stages of crop growth. Total weed density and dry weight were lowest with the black-on-silver plastic mulching compared to other treatments. Additionally, black-on-silver plastic mulching resulted in superior weed control efficiency, achieving rates of 96.31%, 95.86%, and 96.20% at 30, 45, and 90 days after sowing (DAS), respectively. Atrazine application proved to be the most profitable, resulting in the highest net return and benefit-cost ratio. The results showed that while black-on-silver plastic mulching significantly enhances the grain yield of hybrid maize by effectively suppressing weed growth, atrazine application emerges as the most economically viable weed management practice.
Economic Analysis of Potato Production under Bung Practice in Solukhumbu District, Nepal
In 2023, an economic evaluation of potato cultivation within the bung system was carried out in Nepal's Solukhumbu district. A purposive sampling was performed to choose sixty potato-farming households from the Solududhkunda, Thulung Dudhkosi, and Sotang rural municipalities. A pre-tested semi-structured interview schedule, direct observation, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews were used as primary data collection. Whereas, secondary data were obtained from journals, research papers, bulletins, and reports published by diverse organizations. Data were evaluated via descriptive statistics. The data showed that the majority of bung potato farmers were women. “Producers-Collector-Wholesalers-Consumer” was the primary marketing channel for bung potato in the study area. The average cost of potato production was NRs. 89,269.57 per hectare, with land preparation and plantation accounting for the largest share. The gross income and net return were NRs. 216,181.40 and NRs. 126,911.80 per hectare, respectively, yielding a benefit-cost ratio of 2.4, which confirms the high profitability of bung potato cultivation. Around 80% of the producer’s share in the consumer price was estimated with a price spread of 20%. The major issues in bung potato farming were identified as lack of technical expertise, lack of improved variety, shortage of labor, weather uncertainty, and disease and insect pests.
Effect of Planting Dates on Growth and Yield of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Varieties at Rampur, Chitwan
Potato productivity in Nepal is highly influenced by planting time and varietal adaptability to local agro-climatic conditions. A field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm of Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, from September 2021 to February 2022 to evaluate the effect of different planting dates on the growth and yield performance of two potato varieties, Cardinal and MS 42.3. The experiment was laid out in a two-factor factorial randomized complete block design with three replications, comprising four planting dates (September 30, October 15, October 30, and November 15). Growth parameters including emergence, stem number, plant height, leaf number, canopy diameter, and days to physiological maturity, along with yield attributes such as number of tubers per plant, marketable and unmarketable yield, total yield, tuber grading, and dry matter content were recorded and analyzed. Planting date significantly (p < 0.05) influenced most growth and yield parameters, with mid-October planting producing superior vegetative growth and the highest marketable (30.45 mt/ha) and total tuber yield (31.62 Mt ha-1), followed by late October planting, while early and late plantings resulted in comparatively lower performance. Among the varieties, Cardinal produced significantly (p < 0.001) higher marketable (30.14 Mt ha-1) and total yield (31.51 Mt ha-1), whereas MS 42.3 produced more tubers per plant (10.62). The study suggests that planting potato around mid-October using the variety Cardinal is most suitable for achieving higher yield under the agro-climatic conditions of Rampur, Chitwan.
Effect of Different Weed Management Practices on Weed Dynamics, Growth and Yield of Maize (Zea Mays L.) in Lalitpur, Nepal
A field experiment was conducted in Godawari municipality-11, Tahakhel, Lalitpur, Nepal during April to August, 2024 to evaluate the effect of different weed management practices on weed dynamics, growth and yield of maize. The experiment was carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising of seven treatments with three replications. Mankamana-4 maize variety was used in the experiment. Data on crop growth, weed dynamics and yields were recorded and analyzed. The data tabulation was done in MS-EXCEL and analysis of data was done by using R. The experiment results revealed application of atrazine 50% WP @1kg a.i/ha as Pre emergence (PE) treatment resulted in highest grain yield (7.35 mt/ha) which was statistically at par with the treatment pendimethalin 30% EC @0.5 kg a.i/ha + atrazine 50% WP @0.5 kg a.i/ha as PE (7.31 mt/ha) and followed by the hoeing at 25 DAS (7.17 mt/ha).Different weed species belonging to 8 families were identified. The total weed density and weed dry weight were found significantly (p<0.05 and p<0.01 value) lower with application of atrazine 50% WP @1kg a.i/ha as PE compared to other treatments. Similarly, application of atrazine 50% WP @1kg a.i/ha as PE resulted in maximum weed control efficiency of 60.56%, 71.37% and 95.71% at 30, 60 DAS and at harvest, respectively. Likewise, in growth parameters, highest plant height (245.29 cm) was also obtained in atrazine 50% WP @1kg a.i/ha as PE treatment at all observations. Similarly, the shortest days to silking (75 days) was also observed in the same treatment, while the longest days to silking (80 days) was observed in weedy check. Significantly shortest days to 50% tasseling (71 days) was observed in the treatment pendimethalin 30% EC @1kg a.i /ha as PE. The highest B:C ratio (1.18) was observed in atrazine 50% WP @1kg a.i/ha as PE treatment.
Effect of Plant Spacings and Seed Germination Methods on Performance of Spring Rice (Oryza Sativa L. cv. Hardinath-1) under the System of Rice Intensification (SRI)
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a major staple crop in Nepal. This study evaluated the effects of plant spacing and germination methods on the performance of spring rice (Hardinath-1) planted under System of Rice Intensification (SRI) in Gauradaha, Jhapa, Nepal, in 2022. The seed germination methods (pre-germinated, Ps, vs. normal, Ns) and plant spacings (20 cm × 20 cm, 30 cm × 30 cm, 40 cm × 40 cm) were used as treatments. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with six treatment combinations and four replications, assessing major agronomic traits and yield attributes. The study involves nursery and field preparation, transplanting 16 days old seedlings, fertilizer management, and intercultural operations, following SRI guidelines. Results revealed that the pre-germinated seeds (Ps) initially produced taller plants compared to normal seeds (Ns), but had no significant impact on any parameter from either type. The 20 cm × 20 cm spacing showed the highest grain yield (4.29 mt/ha) due to higher planting density, despite fewer tillers per plant and inferior growth performance compared to wider spacings. The spacings of 30 cm × 30 cm and 40 cm × 40 cm enhanced individual plant performance with lesser yield attributes (3.48 mt/ha and 3.10 mt/ha) due to the wasted area. Grain moisture and thousand-grain weight also showed no significant differences across all treatments. The findings recommend 20 cm × 20 cm spacing under SRI to maximize spring rice productivity in Jhapa, accentuating efficient use of resources and sustainable practices.
Agro-Ecological Assessment of Forage and Fodder Species Diversity in Nepal
Livestock production suffers from a seasonal feed imbalance, with an abundance of green forage during the monsoon and a scarcity in the spring and winter in Nepal. Utilizing a wide range of fodder crops is essential to overcoming this obstacle. Approximately 275 cultivated plant species have been identified as forage species in Nepal, out of the approximately 510 forage species that are readily available. Furthermore, Nepal has more than 500 species of fodder trees. Approximately 250 tree species are regarded as economically important fodder trees among them. Due to their greater biomass, palatability, and adaptability, farmers in the Terai and mid-hill regions grow both native and introduced grass species, such as fodder oats (Avena sativa) and Napier grass (Pennisetum purpureum). Certain pasture grasses, like timothy, Setaria, and ryegrass (Lolium spp.), are planted in higher, colder climates. Because of their increased protein content and ability to fix nitrogen biologically, leguminous forages such as vetch, joint vetch, and forage peanut are being encouraged more and more. Certain fodder tree and shrub species, such as Premna integrifolia (Ginderi), Ficus semicordata (Khanayu or Nebharo), and Artocarpus lakoocha (Khanyu), are thought to be essential to traditional cattle farming and agroforestry systems. The diversity, distribution pattern, and seasonal availability of Nepalese forage and fodder species are examined in this review paper, with an emphasis on their potential for genetic improvement. Utilizing diverse fodder and forage species guarantees year-round feed availability in Nepal's various agro-ecological zones.
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Harnessing Zero-Tillage: Enhancing Garlic Growth and Yield via Rice Stubble Planting and Mulch Optimization in Far-Western Nepal
Garlic planted in Nepal suffers from low yield due to inadequate soil moisture, delayed planting leading to high temperature exposure, and soil degradation from conventional tillage methods, especially in the areas where it is cultivated as a short winter crop after harvesting the rice. Field research was conducted to evaluate the effect of various tillage and mulching practices in local garlic variety grown after harvesting of rice in Kailali district of Nepal. The field study was conducted at Godawari, Kailali, from November 2021 to April 2022, and evaluated the effects of tillage and mulching on garlic growth and yield using a split-plot design with four replications. The main plot comprised two tillage methods, viz., zero tillage and conventional tillage, whereas the subplot consisted of five mulching practices, i.e., rice straw, rice husk, sawdust, sugarcane trash, and dried leaves. Zero tillage showed significantly higher (p<0.05) plant height (71.1 cm), leaf number (7.51), leaf area (54.79 cm²), clove number (23.46), and yield (17.56 mt/ha). Among mulches, dried leaves and rice straw performed best, with dried leaves yielding 24.83 cloves and 17.57 mt/ha. The highest yield (19.82 mt/ha) came from zero tillage with dried leaves. This combination also improved organic matter, while zero tillage with rice straw improved bulk density and recorded the highest B: C ratio (11.77). Thus, zero tillage with rice straw mulch is recommended for better growth, yield, and profitability in the plains of the far western region of Nepal and areas with similar soil conditions.
Copyright (c) 2026 The Authors https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Comparative Evaluation of Germination Traits of Hybrid and Open Pollinated Tomato Varieties under Potassium Nitrate Seed Priming
In order to assess the performance of two tomato varieties, Srijana and Suman, under seed priming with potassium nitrate (KNO₃) at four different concentrations 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% the experiment was conducted in the Agronomy Laboratory of the College of Natural Resource Management, Bardibas, Mahottari. Three replications of the two types were set up in a completely randomized design. A number of metrics, such as germination percentage, mean germination rate, mean germination duration, root and shoot length, root-to-shoot ratio, and vigor index, were used to evaluate seed performance. Two-way ANOVA was used to evaluate the data. The length of the roots and shoots varied significantly across treatments, according to the data. The Srijana variety performed better than the others overall, with a germination rate of 90.67%, a mean germination duration of 4.67 days, a root length of 4.88 cm, and a shoot length of 6.43 cm. The best priming treatments were 0.5% and 1% KNO₃. These findings demonstrate how many tomato cultivars respond to seed priming and demonstrate how KNO₃ priming can improve early seedling growth and germination, ultimately leading to higher tomato output.
Fungicidal Management of Alternaria Blight in Rapeseed (Brassica rapa L.)
Alternaria blight caused by Alternaria spp. is a major bio-bottleneck to rapeseed production in Nepal. Field experiments were conducted during the winter seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the Oilseed Research Program (ORP), Nawalpur, Sarlahi to evaluate the comparative efficacy of fungicides against Alternaria blight and their influence on yield of rapeseed. The trials were laid out in a randomized complete block design with seven treatments ancozeb 75% WP @ 2.5 g/L, Azoxystrobin 23% EC (Amistar) @ 1 g/L, Tebuconazole 25% EC (Folicur) @ 1 g/Ll, Fenamidone 50% SC (Reason) @ 1 g/L, Trifloxystrobin 50% WG (Flint) @ 0.5 g/L, Chlorothalonil 50% SC (Bravo) @ 3 g/L including control (Water spray) and three replications using the variety Nawalpur Tori 4. All allocated fungicidal treatments were applied as two foliar sprays at 60 and 75 days after sowing following the onset of disease. Fungicide application significantly (P<0.05) reduced disease severity and improved yield in both years. Fenamidone @1 g/L of water (Reason 50%SC) consistently gave the lowest percent disease index (27.98–29.50%) and the highest grain yield (1178–1213 kg/ha), followed by Tebuconazole @ 1g/l of water (Folicur (25% EC). The untreated control exhibited the highest disease severity and lowest yield. The results confirm the effectiveness of Fenamidone for managing Alternaria blight and enhancing rapeseed productivity.
Diversity Analysis of Weed Flora in Spring Rice Fields of Saptari District, Nepal
Grown in a variety of environments, including irrigated lowlands and uplands, rice is a major crop in Nepal. Drought, flooding, and weeds are just a few of the difficulties farmers confront that can drastically lower harvests. Although improved spring rice types are being used more frequently to address these problems, weeds are still a major issue. Using 22 quadrats per stage, this study examined weeds in spring rice fields in Saptari, Eastern Terai, at three crucial growth stages: tillering, milking, and maturity. The milking stage had the maximum weed abundance (2,492), followed by tillering (2,337) and maturity (753). Cyperus difformis, Eclipta prostrata, Fimbristylis littoralis, Alternanthera sessilis, and Monochoria vaginalis were the most prevalent species. Grasses were scarce, broad-leaved weeds predominated, and the most prevalent groups were Cyperaceae, Asteraceae, Poaceae, and Amaranthaceae. Diversity peaked at the maturity stage, indicating changes in the makeup of weeds as the crop grows. These results demonstrate that weed biology, rice development, and environmental factors all affect weed variety and abundance. By identifying these trends, farmers in the Eastern Terai can improve spring rice productivity by creating integrated weed management plans that are specific to the region.
Comparative Assessment of Weed Control Methods and Their Impact on Rice Yield in Eastern Terai, Nepal
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the most important cereal crop in Nepal, but its production is greatly challenged by weed infestation. Weed infestation is one of the major constraints to rice productivity in South Asia, including Nepal. This study evaluated the comparative performance of chemical and mechanical weed control methods in rice cultivation in Kamal area of Jhapa district, Eastern Terai, Nepal. A field-based socio-economic survey was conducted during the 2018 rice growing season using simple random sampling. A total of 37 rice-growing households were selected, and data were collected through household surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency and percentage analysis. Results showed that chemical weed control was the dominant method adopted by farmers, mainly due to labor scarcity and ease of application. Major weeds identified included Cyperus rotundus, Fimbristylis miliacea, Monochoria vaginalis, and Echinochloa colona. The average cost of cultivation was lower under chemical weed control (Rs 1968 kattha-1) compared to mechanical weed control (Rs 2218 kattha-1). However, average yield and gross return were similar under both methods (1.4 Qt kattha-1and Rs 3150 kattha-1, respectively). The benefit-cost ratio was higher for chemical weed control (1.6) compared to mechanical control (1.4). The findings indicate that chemical weed control currently provides higher economic efficiency under local farming conditions. However, long-term sustainability, environmental safety, and integrated weed management approaches should be emphasized. This study provides baseline information for extension programs and policy interventions aimed at improving rice productivity and profitability in Eastern Nepal.
Performance of Jute-Based Cropping Systems under Mung Bean and Cowpea Intercropping in Rainfed Conditions
Jute productivity in South Asia faces challenges due to declining soil fertility, heavy weed problems, and increasing production costs. Legume intercropping provides a sustainable approach by improving nutrient availability, controlling weeds, and increasing overall productivity. This three-year field experiment from 2022 to 2024 was conducted at the Jute Research Program in Itahari, Nepal. It aimed to evaluate the impact of mung bean and cowpea intercropping on the growth, fiber yield, and economic returns of three tossa jute varieties: Itahari-4, JRO-204, and NJ-7010. The experiment used a split-plot design with legumes planted between jute rows. Intercropping notably affected most growth and yield parameters, while the differences among varieties were mostly insignificant. Cowpea (Malepatan-1) and mung bean (Local) enhanced plant height, basal diameter, and biomass production compared to sole cropping. In combined analysis, the highest green plant yield (58.79 t ha⁻¹), green fiber yield (21.63 t ha⁻¹), and dry fiber yield (3.90 t ha⁻¹) were found in jute + cowpea (Malepatan-1), showing increases of 35% to 60% over sole cropping. The intercrop yield equivalent to jute fiber reached 1.0 to 1.56 t ha⁻¹, making a significant contribution to total productivity. The Jute Fiber Equivalent Yield (JFEY) was highest in jute + cowpea (Malepatan-1) at 5.40 t ha⁻¹, more than double the yield from sole cropping. Economic analysis showed net returns up to Rs. 520,391 ha⁻¹ for jute + cowpea (Malepatan-1) compared to Rs. 248,500 ha⁻¹ for sole jute. Overall, cowpea (Malepatan-1) proved to be the most compatible intercrop, offering substantial yield and economic benefits across jute varieties. The findings confirm that intercropping with legumes, especially cowpea, greatly improves productivity, profitability, and sustainability in jute farming systems in Nepal.
Integrating Morpho-Phenological and Agronomical Traits to Explore Genetic Diversity of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Landraces in Lalitpur, Nepal
Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is the king of cereal crops, with the largest genomic size (~ 17 Gb), the oldest domesticated crop, with high and increasing demand, making its continuous crop improvement essential for climate resilience and food security. To characterize and evaluate 70 Nepalese wheat landraces, this research was carried out in the National Agriculture Genetic Resources Centre (NAGRC), Khumaltar, Lalitpur, from November 12, 2024, to May 22, 2025. Seventy wheat landraces collected from different districts of Nepal were characterized and evaluated using an augmented block design. Twenty quantitative and thirteen qualitative traits were assessed to determine the extent of variability and identify elite genotypes for breeding programs. Statistical tools like Principal Component Analysis (PCA), descriptive statistics, Cluster analysis, Karl Pearson correlation coefficient were used for the analysis. Shannon-Weaver diversity indices (H’) showed a moderate to low level of diversity for qualitative traits, and showed a high to moderate level of diversity for quantitative traits. The first four principal components (PC) explained 67.42% of the total phenotypic variation, while the first two PCs constituted 49.32% of the variation. Cluster analysis grouped the 70 wheat accessions into four genetically distinct clusters. Cluster-2 was the largest cluster with 35 (50%) accessions, and cluster-1 constituted 25 (35%) accessions. Pearson correlation analysis showed a highly significant positive correlation between days to heading and days to maturity, plant height and spike exertion, awn length and hundred grain weight, and seed length and hundred grain weight. Promising landraces were identified for high-yielding, desirable short-stature (lodging resistant), desirable early maturing traits, and quality seed-related traits for studying their suitable area of cultivation as elite candidates for evaluation across multiple environments and selection for potential use in the development of improved wheat varieties.
Effect of Different Priming Agents on Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Khairahani, Chitwan
Maize (Zea mays L.) is a second most important staple crop in Nepal, yet its productivity remains below potential due to poor seed quality and low germination. Seed priming is a simple and cost-effective approach to improve germination, seedling vigor, and crop establishment. A laboratory experiment was conducted in January 2025 at Rampur Campus, Chitwan, using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications and nine treatments: hydro-priming (24 hrs), NaCl (1%), urea (0.5% and 1%), KNO₃ (1% and 2%), GA₃ (50 ppm and 75 ppm), and control, to evaluate their effects on maize germination and early seedling growth under controlled conditions. Seeds were soaked for 24 hrs, dried for 12 hrs, and germinated in Petri plates at 25 ± 2°C. Observations were recorded at 12-hour intervals on different germination parameters of seed. Results showed that GA₃ 75 ppm and urea 1% were the most effective treatments, achieving the highest germination percentage (75.19% and 74.63%), seedling vigor index (5717.14 and 4583.23), germination energy (76 both), germination index (13.76 and 13.78), radicle length (59.39 and 47.53 mm), plumule length (7.66 and 6.65 mm), and radicle to plumule ratio (7.78 and 7.34), followed by Hydro-priming and NaCl 1%. In contrast, control seeds showed the lowest values across all traits. Early germination (12-36 hours) showed significant improvement, whereas later stages were non-significant. Overall, seed priming markedly enhanced germination, seedling vigor, and early growth. Among the tested treatments, GA₃ at 75 ppm and urea at 1% emerged as the most effective priming agents for enhancing germination and early seedling growth of maize.
Effect of Nitrogen on Yield Attributes, Yield and Nitrogen Use Efficiencies of Buckwheat in Mustang, Nepal
Nitrogen (N) play important role in the vegetative, reproductive characteristics and grain yield of buckwheat. To evaluate the effect of nitrogen on growth, yield attributes, yield and nitrogen use efficiencies on buckwheat a field experiment was operated during July to October of 2024 in Mustang district of Nepal consisting of five nitrogen level viz. control (0), 20, 40, and 80 kg N ha-1 in randomized complete block design which was replicated four times. Data on plant height, number of lateral branches per plant, yield attributes and yield were measured and analysis was done using R-stat software. Data on analysis shows that shows that plant height was found tallest in 80 kg N ha-1 in all the days of observations while there was no effect of N on number of lateral branches per plant. Yield attributes like number of fruit cluster per plant (19.16), number of grains per plant (89.04) and per cluster (4.78) and grain yield (662.5 kg ha-1) were found significantly highest in 60 kg N ha-1 while stover yield (2771.76 kg ha-1) was measured significantly more in in 80 kg N ha-1 while harvest index was recorded highest in in 60 kg N ha-1. Nitrogen use efficiencies like partial factor productivity was recorded more in 20 kg N ha-1 while agronomic efficiency was highest in 60 kg N ha-1. Thus, 60 kg N ha-1 was found good in growth, yield attributes, yield and agronomic efficiency based on this research findings.
Evaluation of Grain Yield Potential and Environmental Stability of the Barley Genotypes Using an Augmented Randomized Complete Block Design
In initial breeding field trials, insufficient seed quantity and limited land area frequently hinder complete replication, complicating the precise evaluation of genotypic potential due to environmental variability. This study aims to assess the grain yield performance of 336 unreplicated barley genotypes in conjunction with six replicated check varieties, employing an Augmented Randomized Complete Block Design. The experiment was carried out in 10 blocks for three consecutive years. To figure out how many environmental errors there were, six check varieties were repeated in each block. In contrast, 336 barley genotypes were tested without replication. The analysis result showed that the environment was different, with block mean yields for checks ranging from 2422 kg ha-1 (Block 9) to 3407 kg ha-1 (Block 6). Because of this change, genotypes in stress environments had to have their yields changed by as much as +585 kg ha-1. Genotype AM-292 was the best line, with the highest adjusted yield (8392 kg ha-1), showing that it did very well even though it was grown in the block with the least fertile soil. Genotype AM-159 (7902 kg ha-1) and Genotype AM-185 (7206 kg ha-1) were also chosen as the best performing genotypes. The check variety “V. Morales” was very stable, while the check variety “Alanda” showed a lot of phenotypic variation (2374–5755 kg ha-1), which made it less useful as a stability reference. The improved design worked well to reduce environmental error. The top 10% of genotypes have been chosen (higher than 5000 kg ha-1 yield potential) based on their adjusted yield performance.
Effect of Different Row Spacing on Growth and Yield of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) under Khumaltar Condition
Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) is an important summer grain legume in mid hills of Nepal. An experiment was conducted at National Agronomy Research Centre, NARC Khumaltar during 2022,2023 and 2024 to identify suitable row spacing for black gram. Five rows spacing (20 cm, 30 cm, 40 cm, 50 cm and 60 cm) and plant to plant spacing 10 cm were evaluated in randomized block design with four replications using variety Khajura Mash-1. Plot size of 12 m2 (4 m × 3 m) was maintained, and fertilizer dose applied was 20:40:20 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1. At physiological maturity, 10 plants per plot were sampled randomly for measurements of plant height, number of pods/plants, unfilled pods/plant and 100 seed weight. Data on days to 50% flowering, days to 90% maturity, plant height, number of pods per plant, biological yield and hundred seed weight were recorded. Combined analysis showed final stand/m2, number of branches per plant, harvest index and straw dry matter were found to be affected significantly by various row spacing. There was no any significant interaction effect between rows spacing × year. Year significantly influenced all the parameters except days to 50% flowering, days to 90% maturity and final stand/m2. The data of combined analysis of three years revealed that row spacing 20cm × 10 cm produced the highest grain yield (1746 kg ha-1) followed by 30cm × 10 cm (1725 kg ha-1). Similarly, the highest biological yield (10.5 t ha-1) was observed at 20 and 40 cm row spacing followed by 30cm (9.6 kg ha-1). Maximum harvest index (0.21) was provided by 60 cm row spacing followed by 30cm and 50cm (0.20). The finding concluded that maintaining 20 cm × 10 cm spacing was the better for higher grain yield and 30 cm × 10 cm was promising in better seed yield under Khumaltar, Lalitpur conditions.
Evaluation of Single Cross Maize Hybrids for Yield and Agronomical Advantage
Grain yield for the maize genotypes is an important goal in maize breeding programs. The objective of this study was to evaluate the single cross maize hybrids for growth, yield, and traits associated with yield. Maize hybrids, RH-14 and RH-16 as standard checks, RAJKUMAR, JKMH502 and TX369 as commercial checks and CAH1511 and RH-10 as local checks variety along with other 112 single cross maize hybrids were evaluated in alpha lattice design with two replications at research field of National Maize Research Program (NMRP), Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal from November, 2022 to April, 2023. Agro-morphological and phenology based traits, yield and yield attributing traits as well as husk cover, lodging, stay green and disease were evaluated. Analysis of variance revealed that the significant differences among the tested genotypes for most of the traits that indicated the presence of genotypic differences. In present study, among all evaluated genotypes, RML142/CML581 produced the highest grain yield of 11373 kg ha⁻¹ and showed economic heterosis of 11.59% followed by commercial check JKMH502 (10191 kg ha⁻¹). Correlation revealed that grain yield had a positive and highly significant relation with number of ear ha⁻¹ (r= 0.796**), plant height (r= 0.401**), ear height (r=0.411**) and ear position (r=0.275**). The variability shown by the different genotypes can be used for the evaluation of high yielding and better performing variety. The study illustrated the existence of wide ranges of variation for most of the traits. Hence, selection of hybrids based on key traits performance would be of great importance in maize breeding research.
Effect of precision nitrogen management on growth, yield and yield components of rice in Khumaltar, Lalitpur
Enhancing the nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) is essential for sustainable rice production, especially in areas where general fertilizer recommendations don't take field-specific variability into account. Rice (var. NR11105) was the plant material of a two-year field experiment (2023 and 2024) at the National Agronomy Research Centre, Khumaltar, Nepal, to assess the impact of precision nitrogen management practices on rice growth and yield parameters. Three replications of the experiment were set up in a randomized complete block design. N omission (control), farmer practices, the recommended fertilizer dose (RDF: 100:30:30 kg N:P₂O₅: K₂O ha⁻¹), N management based on Leaf Color Chart (LCC), SPAD meter-based N management, NDVI-based N management, and Nutrient Expert®-Site Specific Nutrient Management (NE-SSNM) were among the treatments. Pooled analysis showed significant treatment effects of treatments were found for tiller number, grains per panicle, thousand-grain weight, sterility %, biomass yield, and grain yield. While SPAD (5.49 t ha⁻¹), RDF (5.47 t ha⁻¹), and LCC (5.19 t ha⁻¹) were statistically similar, NDVI- and NE-SSNM-based treatments yielded the maximum grain production (5.70 t ha⁻¹). The control (1.78 t ha⁻¹) and farmer practice (3.38 t ha⁻¹) yields were the lowest. Comparing precision-based N management to traditional methods, the former improved biomass accumulation and decreased the sterility percentage. The yield improvement with NE-SSNM and NDVI was 4.2% more than that under RDF. The results show that N management strategies based on sensors and decision assistance improve rice productivity and nitrogen use efficiency more than general advice. The sustainable intensification of rice systems in Nepal and other agro-ecological settings can be supported by the use of site-specific nutrient management techniques.
Productivity and Land Use Efficiency of Maize Varieties under Different Row Spacings in a Maize–Finger Millet Relay Cropping System of the Mid-Hills of Nepal
Relay cropping of maize with finger millet (maize/finger millet) is the predominant cropping system for sustaining food security situation in the hilly regions of Nepal. Two-year field experiments (2023–2024) were conducted at research field of National Agronomy Research Centre, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal to evaluate the effects of maize varieties and maize row spacing on growth, yield, and land use efficiency in a maize–finger millet relay cropping system. The study used a split-plot design with three replications. Three maize row spacings (75, 100, and 150 cm) were used as main plots and four maize varieties (BGBYPOP, Arun-2, Manakamana-4, BISCO 940 NEW) as subplots. Finger millet seedlings were transplanted under standing maize 28–35 days after sowing. Data on growth, yield, and land equivalent ratio (LER) were recorded and analyzed over two seasons. Results showed that maize variety significantly (P<0.05) influenced system productivity, whereas row spacing had limited effect on LER. BGBYPOP produced the highest LER (1.65), followed by BISCO 940 NEW (1.62), indicating superior land use efficiency, while narrow row spacing (75 cm) produced 7.42tha-1 maize yield. Maize varieties Arun-2 and Manakamana-4 gave higher finger millet grain yield (4.19–4.23 t ha⁻¹) by reducing inter-crop competition. Maize-finger millet relay cropping with promising maize varieties should be done continuously to recommend maize variety for relay cropping system.
Influence of Seed Rate and Days of Pendimethalin Application on Weed Dynamics and Yield of Dry Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Dry Direct -Seeded rice is the sustainable alternative to the commonly transplanted rice that address the problems of water, labour and high production costs. However, the weed infestation causes heavy yield reduction in dry direct seeded rice (DDSR). The optimum seed rate and timing of pre-emergence herbicide application is also another crucial factors limiting production in DDSR.To evaluate optimum seed rate and days to pendimethalin application a field study was conducted in 2022 and 2023 in the experimental field of National Agronomy Research Centre, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal. The experiment was laid out in a split plot design with two seed rate (20 and 30 kg ha-1) assigned to main plot factor and five different days of pendimethalin application (1,2, 3 ,4 and 5 days after sowing of rice) was assigned to as sub plot factor. The treatment was experimented in four replications. The plot size was 3 × 4 m and spacing was 20 cm between row and sown continuously in line. The fertilizers were applied at the rate of 120: 40: 40 kg N: P2O5:K2O ha-1. The full dose of P2O5: K2O and one third dose of N was applied as basal. The remaining N was applied in two splits at tillering and booting stage. Observations in crop growth, weeds and yield and yield attributes were recorded. Seed rate of 30 kg ha-1 suppressed weeds efficiently and produced higher grain yield (7052 kg ha-1) compared with 20 kg recording less weed density and biomass. In the different days of pendimethalin application applying it on same day of sowing of rice resulted in better weed management and higher yield (7439 kg ha-1) compared with others days of it application.
Effects of Detasseling Timing and Intensity on Yield and TSS of Sweet Corn
Detasseling redirects nutrients from tassel and pollen formation to ear growth that results in greater biomass accumulation, translocation, and higher carbohydrate deposition. However, limited studies exist on the right timing and intensity of detasseling. Hence, this research focused on assessing detasseling effects and identifying the optimum combination of detasseling timing and intensity for higher yield and sweetness. A two-factor randomized complete block design (RCBD) experiment was conducted in 2025 at A Plus Agro Farm, Sundarbazar, Lamjung. This experiment examined detasseling at two tassel emergence stages (50% and 100%) and three removal intensities (25%, 50%, and 75%). So, the treatment consisted of 6 detasseling combinations and one absolute control (no detasseling), replicated thrice. Observations were recorded on yield parameters and sweetness on the 81st days after sowing (DAS). All the detasseling combinations except 50:25 outperformed control. The results revealed that the interaction of timing and intensity increased sweetness (TSS) by 27% (p ≤ 0.05) and grains per cob by 24% (p ≤ 0.05) under 100:75 as compared to 50:25. The highest yield per cob (0.395 kg) was recorded under 100% tassel emergence with 75% intensity. The interaction for net plot yield per 2.1 m² was non-significant; however, 100% timing and 75% intensity increased yield by 12% (p ≤ 0.01) and 36% (p ≤ 0.001) relative to 50% timing and 25% intensity. All the measured parameters showed significant results at 75% detasseling. Overall, detasseling 75% of tassels in their full emergence showed an evident effect on yield and sweetness and can be suggested as a practical strategy for improving sweet corn productivity.