Studies on Variable Level of N Fertigation on Growth, Yield and Quality of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) cv. Kandhari Kabuli

A field trial was conducted to study the effect of variable level of N along with recommended dose of P and K through fertigation on growth, yield and quality parameters of pomegranate on eleven year old pomegranate trees cv. Kandhari Kabuli under mid hill conditions of HP. Treatment consisted of five levels of Nitrogen fertilizer 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% along with 100% recommended dose of P and K through fertigation and conventional method of fertilizer application (with recommended dose of NPK) kept as control. Fertigation treatments had a promising effect over conventional method and treatment of 75% RD of N and RD of P and K through fertigation proved significant over other fertigation treatments and conventional method. Highest tree growth parameters, fruit set, fruit retention, average fruit weight and yield was recorded highest for 75% RD of N and RD of P and K through fertigation. Physico-chemical fruit characteristics viz. highest TSS, lower acidity, highest TSS acid ratio, highest sugars and ascorbic acid content (Vit. C) was also recorded for 75% RD of N and RD of P and K.

An Overview of Precision Farming

With respect to conventional farming precision agriculture increases average yields by limiting the wastage by calculating the exact required quantities of inputs. One major issue in India is the relatively small and scattered landholdings. In India 58% of the cultivable land is less than 1ha under single owner. The agricultural production system is the result of a complex interplay between seed, soil, water, and agrochemicals (including fertilizers). As a result, judicious control of all inputs is critical for the long-term viability of such a complex system. Precision agriculture is the use of technology and techniques to control the geographical and temporal variability associated with all aspects of agricultural production to improve output and environmental quality. Precision agricultural success is dependent on an accurate assessment of variability, its management, and evaluation in the space-time continuum of crop production. Precision agriculture's agronomic performance has been highly impressive in sugar beet, sugarcane, tea, and coffee crops. Due to lack of knowledge of space-time continuum the economic benefits environmental and social advantages are not explored yet. Precision agriculture is a relatively new field that integrates cutting-edge geographic technology with farming scenarios to optimize inputs, eliminate waste, and maximize returns. Precision farming systems are intended for use in many sorts of agricultural systems, ranging from row crops to dairy, and the technology has experienced extensive acceptance in the United States and across the globe.

Physiological Aspects of Flowering, Fruit Setting, Fruit Development and Fruit Drop, Regulation and their Manipulation: A Review

The physiology of flowering and fruit setting involves the changes in the characters of cells proliferating in the meristematic tissues of the shoot owing to the specific gene action and change in the phyto-hormones level. Flower formation is a transition phase in the life cycle of a plant. The alteration of vegetative apex into reproductive structure results in flowering initiation. The reduction of shoot meristem starts development of sepals, petals, stamens, carpals instead of leaves. The plant must attain specific state of ‘ripeness to response’ before it flowers. Once the stage is reached, then it can induce to flower. The flowering is closely linked to the diverse environmental conditions in which each species has evolved. The effects of the large number of factors that influence the proportion of buds giving rise to flowers have generally been interpreted in terms of an inbuilt propensity to flowering and interference with attainment of this.

Advancements in Drone Technology for Fruit Crop Management: A Comprehensive Review

Drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), equipped with advanced sensors and imaging capabilities, have revolutionized the way farmers monitor and manage fruit crops. Aerial surveillance enables high-resolution imaging of orchards and vineyards, allowing for early detection of diseases, pests, and other stress factors that can impact crop health. The data collected by drones facilitate precise and targeted interventions, optimizing resource use and enhancing overall crop productivity. Additionally, drones contribute to yield estimation, canopy management, and post-harvest monitoring. While the technology offers significant advantages, challenges such as payload limitations, weather sensitivity, and regulatory compliance must be addressed. Ongoing research and technological advancements are expected to overcome these limitations, further establishing drones as indispensable tools for sustainable and efficient fruit crop management. This review consolidates current knowledge, highlights emerging trends, and outlines future prospects for the integration of drone technology in fruit agriculture.