This study was carried out to determine an appropriate chemical vase solution
.technology for the increased vase life of carnation cut flowers. The experiment was
conducted in National Agriculture Research Institute, NARC, Lalitpur, Nepal during gh
Juiy 2007 to 28" October 2007. The six different chemical preservatives in . vase
solutions were evaluated to increase the vase life of carnation cut flowers. The vase life
of different cultivars of carnation was resulted at the range of 3.6 days to 10.1 days . .
Significantly, the longest vase life was resulted at pulse treatment with STS (9.4 days)
followed by sucrose+ HQS (8.1 days) as compared to control (TW) (3.6 days). The
vase life at the vase solutions of tap water + HQS and distilled water + HQS were found
intermediate. The effect of HOS in tap water as well as distilled water was observed
significant for the increased solution uptake and vase life against non-HQS _vas(]1
solutions. The cultivar Helix had the longest vase life (1 0. 1 days) at STS followed by
Nelson at sucrose +HOS (9.9 days). The sucrose + HQS showed maximum total
solution uptake and gave increased vase life and excellent flower quality with highly
turgid and fresh flower. The effect of sucrose + HQS for extending the vase life of
carnation cut flower is attributed to delayed ethylene production since petal in-rolling
was discouraged. In ~ddition, expression of petal color treated with sucrose ·+ HQS was
improved. The effectiveness of STS in prolonging the vase life of carnation cut flowers
was highly apparent, however, harmful effects such as brownish spots on flower petpls ·
were recorded. Also, it contains silver, a heavy metal, which is potent environmental
pollutant; therefore, we coufd suggest sucrose treatment rather than STS pulsing to
increase the vase life of carnation· cut flowers:

This study was carried out to determine an appropriate chemical vase solution
.technology for the increased vase life of carnation cut flowers. The experiment was
conducted in National Agriculture Research Institute, NARC, Lalitpur, Nepal during gh
Juiy 2007 to 28" October 2007. The six different chemical preservatives in . vase
solutions were evaluated to increase the vase life of carnation cut flowers. The vase life
of different cultivars of carnation was resulted at the range of 3.6 days to 10.1 days . .
Significantly, the longest vase life was resulted at pulse treatment with STS (9.4 days)
followed by sucrose+ HQS (8.1 days) as compared to control (TW) (3.6 days). The
vase life at the vase solutions of tap water + HQS and distilled water + HQS were found
intermediate. The effect of HOS in tap water as well as distilled water was observed
significant for the increased solution uptake and vase life against non-HQS _vas(]1
solutions. The cultivar Helix had the longest vase life (1 0. 1 days) at STS followed by
Nelson at sucrose +HOS (9.9 days). The sucrose + HQS showed maximum total
solution uptake and gave increased vase life and excellent flower quality with highly
turgid and fresh flower. The effect of sucrose + HQS for extending the vase life of
carnation cut flower is attributed to delayed ethylene production since petal in-rolling
was discouraged. In ~ddition, expression of petal color treated with sucrose ·+ HQS was
improved. The effectiveness of STS in prolonging the vase life of carnation cut flowers
was highly apparent, however, harmful effects such as brownish spots on flower petpls ·
were recorded. Also, it contains silver, a heavy metal, which is potent environmental
pollutant; therefore, we coufd suggest sucrose treatment rather than STS pulsing to
increase the vase life of carnation· cut flowers:

This study was carried out to determine an appropriate chemical vase solution
.technology for the increased vase life of carnation cut flowers. The experiment was
conducted in National Agriculture Research Institute, NARC, Lalitpur, Nepal during gh
Juiy 2007 to 28" October 2007. The six different chemical preservatives in . vase
solutions were evaluated to increase the vase life of carnation cut flowers. The vase life
of different cultivars of carnation was resulted at the range of 3.6 days to 10.1 days . .
Significantly, the longest vase life was resulted at pulse treatment with STS (9.4 days)
followed by sucrose+ HQS (8.1 days) as compared to control (TW) (3.6 days). The
vase life at the vase solutions of tap water + HQS and distilled water + HQS were found
intermediate. The effect of HOS in tap water as well as distilled water was observed
significant for the increased solution uptake and vase life against non-HQS _vas(]1
solutions. The cultivar Helix had the longest vase life (1 0. 1 days) at STS followed by
Nelson at sucrose +HOS (9.9 days). The sucrose + HQS showed maximum total
solution uptake and gave increased vase life and excellent flower quality with highly
turgid and fresh flower. The effect of sucrose + HQS for extending the vase life of
carnation cut flower is attributed to delayed ethylene production since petal in-rolling
was discouraged. In ~ddition, expression of petal color treated with sucrose ·+ HQS was
improved. The effectiveness of STS in prolonging the vase life of carnation cut flowers
was highly apparent, however, harmful effects such as brownish spots on flower petpls ·
were recorded. Also, it contains silver, a heavy metal, which is potent environmental
pollutant; therefore, we coufd suggest sucrose treatment rather than STS pulsing to
increase the vase life of carnation· cut flowers:

This study was carried out to determine an appropriate chemical vase solution
.technology for the increased vase life of carnation cut flowers. The experiment was
conducted in National Agriculture Research Institute, NARC, Lalitpur, Nepal during gh
Juiy 2007 to 28" October 2007. The six different chemical preservatives in . vase
solutions were evaluated to increase the vase life of carnation cut flowers. The vase life
of different cultivars of carnation was resulted at the range of 3.6 days to 10.1 days . .
Significantly, the longest vase life was resulted at pulse treatment with STS (9.4 days)
followed by sucrose+ HQS (8.1 days) as compared to control (TW) (3.6 days). The
vase life at the vase solutions of tap water + HQS and distilled water + HQS were found
intermediate. The effect of HOS in tap water as well as distilled water was observed
significant for the increased solution uptake and vase life against non-HQS _vas(]1
solutions. The cultivar Helix had the longest vase life (1 0. 1 days) at STS followed by
Nelson at sucrose +HOS (9.9 days). The sucrose + HQS showed maximum total
solution uptake and gave increased vase life and excellent flower quality with highly
turgid and fresh flower. The effect of sucrose + HQS for extending the vase life of
carnation cut flower is attributed to delayed ethylene production since petal in-rolling
was discouraged. In ~ddition, expression of petal color treated with sucrose ·+ HQS was
improved. The effectiveness of STS in prolonging the vase life of carnation cut flowers
was highly apparent, however, harmful effects such as brownish spots on flower petpls ·
were recorded. Also, it contains silver, a heavy metal, which is potent environmental
pollutant; therefore, we coufd suggest sucrose treatment rather than STS pulsing to
increase the vase life of carnation· cut flowers:

A study was carried out from January to December 2005 in four different rose
cultivation sites of Kathmandu district to assess the population of Macrosiphum rosae
(rose colored aphid) and Tetranychus sp. (red spider mite). The population of aphid
showed gradual increase from spring to rainy season till it reached its peak in autumn.
The mite population increased from winter to spring, however it decreased in rainy
season and again increased in autumn. Significant difference was observed between
mite population in protected and open cultivation throughout the year.

A study was carried out from January to December 2005 in four different rose
cultivation sites of Kathmandu district to assess the population of Macrosiphum rosae
(rose colored aphid) and Tetranychus sp. (red spider mite). The population of aphid
showed gradual increase from spring to rainy season till it reached its peak in autumn.
The mite population increased from winter to spring, however it decreased in rainy
season and again increased in autumn. Significant difference was observed between
mite population in protected and open cultivation throughout the year.

Survey and field experiments were conducted at ARS, Pokhara, during 2003 and 2004
to know the ecology and effectiveness of different materials against terrestrial snails.
Field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with seven
treatments and four replications. Each treatment plot consisted of one clump of banana
with 3 stems having 15 leaves and 50 snails (Cryptaustenia sp.). All treatments were
applied in July. Survey conducted in Kaski, Tanahun, Syangja, Parvat, Nawalparasi
and Rupandehi revealed that five species of snails, namely Lissachatina fulica,
Cryptaustenia sp., Macrochlamys sp, Euaustenia sp.and Bensonia sp. were recorded
as crop pests. They were found to feed most preferably on chayote followed by tane
bodi, maize and sponge gourd in the field whereas in host choice condition, tane bodi,
french bean, maize, chayote, sponge gourd and yam were in sequence of preference
rank and the least preferred were ginger, turmeric and egg plant. The snails in field
were seen just after 2-3 showers of rain during April-May, maximum peak in July, and
theirr activity stopped with the end of monsoon. Two years mean data on snail mortality
due to treatments revealed that the spray of copper sulphate @ 5g//iter of water gave
significantly maximum mortality of snails (86.20 %). Common salt + agriculture
lime (1:5) @ 10 g/liter of water(78.90%) and dust of common salt+ wood ash (1: 5)
@ 30 kg/ha (74.60 %) were at par to cause snail mortality within 7 days after
application compared to that of untreated control (8.52 %).

Survey and field experiments were conducted at ARS, Pokhara, during 2003 and 2004
to know the ecology and effectiveness of different materials against terrestrial snails.
Field experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with seven
treatments and four replications. Each treatment plot consisted of one clump of banana
with 3 stems having 15 leaves and 50 snails (Cryptaustenia sp.). All treatments were
applied in July. Survey conducted in Kaski, Tanahun, Syangja, Parvat, Nawalparasi
and Rupandehi revealed that five species of snails, namely Lissachatina fulica,
Cryptaustenia sp., Macrochlamys sp, Euaustenia sp.and Bensonia sp. were recorded
as crop pests. They were found to feed most preferably on chayote followed by tane
bodi, maize and sponge gourd in the field whereas in host choice condition, tane bodi,
french bean, maize, chayote, sponge gourd and yam were in sequence of preference
rank and the least preferred were ginger, turmeric and egg plant. The snails in field
were seen just after 2-3 showers of rain during April-May, maximum peak in July, and
theirr activity stopped with the end of monsoon. Two years mean data on snail mortality
due to treatments revealed that the spray of copper sulphate @ 5g//iter of water gave
significantly maximum mortality of snails (86.20 %). Common salt + agriculture
lime (1:5) @ 10 g/liter of water(78.90%) and dust of common salt+ wood ash (1: 5)
@ 30 kg/ha (74.60 %) were at par to cause snail mortality within 7 days after
application compared to that of untreated control (8.52 %).

Experiment on different mulching materials was conducted in Phalebas, Mudikuwa,
Devisthan and Khanigaun VDCs of Parbat district during 2006/07-2007/08 to select the
most profitable mulching practice and its effect on potato tuber yield and soil properties.
The plot size for each treatment was 9 rrl with a spacing of 25X60 em. Grass,
newspaper, black and white polythene sheet were used as mulching materials.
Economic analysis for each treatment was carried out to find out the most profitable
and cost effective mulching materials. Among the tested mulching materials, mulching
with grass gave the highest potato tuber yield (31340 kglha). Lowest potato tuber yield
(17260kg/ha) was found in farmers' practice (no mulching). It was observed that
existence of moisture content in the field was better and weed problem was less in all
treatments of mulching. Effect of different mulching practices on potato was found
highly significant on tuber yield. Mulching with newspaper, black and white polythene
sheet was found at par on yield of potato in both years. Non-significant change in soil
chemical properties was found among the treatments while organic matter content in
soil was slightly increased over the time in grass mulching. Experiment revealed that
grass mulching could be the most profitable, sustainable, locally and easily available
way of mulching for potato production in western hills.

Experiment on different mulching materials was conducted in Phalebas, Mudikuwa,
Devisthan and Khanigaun VDCs of Parbat district during 2006/07-2007/08 to select the
most profitable mulching practice and its effect on potato tuber yield and soil properties.
The plot size for each treatment was 9 rrl with a spacing of 25X60 em. Grass,
newspaper, black and white polythene sheet were used as mulching materials.
Economic analysis for each treatment was carried out to find out the most profitable
and cost effective mulching materials. Among the tested mulching materials, mulching
with grass gave the highest potato tuber yield (31340 kglha). Lowest potato tuber yield
(17260kg/ha) was found in farmers' practice (no mulching). It was observed that
existence of moisture content in the field was better and weed problem was less in all
treatments of mulching. Effect of different mulching practices on potato was found
highly significant on tuber yield. Mulching with newspaper, black and white polythene
sheet was found at par on yield of potato in both years. Non-significant change in soil
chemical properties was found among the treatments while organic matter content in
soil was slightly increased over the time in grass mulching. Experiment revealed that
grass mulching could be the most profitable, sustainable, locally and easily available
way of mulching for potato production in western hills.

Field experiments were. conducted at Phalebas, Mudikuwa, Devisthan and Khanigaun
V.D.Cs. of Parbat district . during 2006107-2007/08 to study the effect of ·different .
combination of organic manures, inorganic· fertilizers and micronutrients solution on
potato tuber yield and observe ·changes on soil fertility status. Experiment was set in a
RCBD with 7 treatments with different doses of N, P20 5, K20 and FYM along with foliar
spray of multiplex at different time interval. Effect of different nutrient application in
potato was found significant in tuber yield. Among the tested treatments;· application of
20 tonne of FYM and 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha + Multiplex spray at 15 and 30
days after emergence gave the highest potato tuber yield (29.08 t/ha) followed by
application of 20 tonne of FYM and 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha +Multiplex spray at
15, 30 and 45 days after emergence (28.50 t/ha)). Result revealed that potato tuber
yield with the farmers' practice and application of 20 tonne of FYM is at par. Similarly,
application 20 tonne of FYM + 150:100:90 kg N.P20 5K20/ha and application 20 tonne
of FYM/ha plus 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha are also ~t par. Soil reaction, available P
and exchangeable Kin soil did not show any change while total N and organic matter
increased over the time. A highest incremental BIG ratio (8.04) was obtained when
organic manures (20 tlha) plus balanced doses of NPK and multiplex at 15 and 30
days interval was· sprayed.

Field experiments were. conducted at Phalebas, Mudikuwa, Devisthan and Khanigaun
V.D.Cs. of Parbat district . during 2006107-2007/08 to study the effect of ·different .
combination of organic manures, inorganic· fertilizers and micronutrients solution on
potato tuber yield and observe ·changes on soil fertility status. Experiment was set in a
RCBD with 7 treatments with different doses of N, P20 5, K20 and FYM along with foliar
spray of multiplex at different time interval. Effect of different nutrient application in
potato was found significant in tuber yield. Among the tested treatments;· application of
20 tonne of FYM and 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha + Multiplex spray at 15 and 30
days after emergence gave the highest potato tuber yield (29.08 t/ha) followed by
application of 20 tonne of FYM and 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha +Multiplex spray at
15, 30 and 45 days after emergence (28.50 t/ha)). Result revealed that potato tuber
yield with the farmers' practice and application of 20 tonne of FYM is at par. Similarly,
application 20 tonne of FYM + 150:100:90 kg N.P20 5K20/ha and application 20 tonne
of FYM/ha plus 100:100:60 kg N:P20 5:K20/ha are also ~t par. Soil reaction, available P
and exchangeable Kin soil did not show any change while total N and organic matter
increased over the time. A highest incremental BIG ratio (8.04) was obtained when
organic manures (20 tlha) plus balanced doses of NPK and multiplex at 15 and 30
days interval was· sprayed.

An· experiment was conducted in Khurkot vpc, ward number 1 and 2 of Parbat district
during 2006/07-2007/@B~to eV~Iuate "the response of bio·ff!rtilizers in potato tvber yield
and obseNe changes on soil fertility stl!ltl.!s. A~otopacto_r and E_M, were mixec! dif(erently .
with FYM and were 'applied before planting o.f pqtato .. A ·Rqa· design ~as perforrr:ed i~
. ·with replications and ~ix treatments. Total participathg farmers wer_e_ six an~ ·a farmer
was considered as a replication). Improved potato variety Kufri Joti was used in the
field trial. ·Amon{i the tested treatments, Azotobacter 2kg + · FYM 20 tlha and
· · 100:100:60 kg N.P20 5K20 /ha· gave· highest pdtato tuber- yield (25.88 tlha) followed by
application of EM 2 Lit. + FYM 20 tlha + 100:100:60 kg N:P20s:K20/ha (21 :36 tlha) .
. More number of tubers were found in treatment with. application of EM. 2Lit. + FYM 20
Vha + .100;100:(j0 kg N:PiJs:K2.0tlha while bigg.er size of tt..ib~rs. w~re obseNed in
treatment with application of Azotobacter 2kg + . F'(M . 20 t/ha + 100:100:i50 kg
N:P20 5:K20/ha. Response of bio fertilizers on potato tuber yield was found highly
. · · significant: Soil reaction, . available P and exchangeable K in soil did -not show distinct
change while total N and organic matter had very small increment over the time.
Higher incremental BIG ratio was obtained when EM along with FYM was applied
followed by Azotobacter, EM and FYM.

An· experiment was conducted in Khurkot vpc, ward number 1 and 2 of Parbat district
during 2006/07-2007/@B~to eV~Iuate "the response of bio·ff!rtilizers in potato tvber yield
and obseNe changes on soil fertility stl!ltl.!s. A~otopacto_r and E_M, were mixec! dif(erently .
with FYM and were 'applied before planting o.f pqtato .. A ·Rqa· design ~as perforrr:ed i~
. ·with replications and ~ix treatments. Total participathg farmers wer_e_ six an~ ·a farmer
was considered as a replication). Improved potato variety Kufri Joti was used in the
field trial. ·Amon{i the tested treatments, Azotobacter 2kg + · FYM 20 tlha and
· · 100:100:60 kg N.P20 5K20 /ha· gave· highest pdtato tuber- yield (25.88 tlha) followed by
application of EM 2 Lit. + FYM 20 tlha + 100:100:60 kg N:P20s:K20/ha (21 :36 tlha) .
. More number of tubers were found in treatment with. application of EM. 2Lit. + FYM 20
Vha + .100;100:(j0 kg N:PiJs:K2.0tlha while bigg.er size of tt..ib~rs. w~re obseNed in
treatment with application of Azotobacter 2kg + . F'(M . 20 t/ha + 100:100:i50 kg
N:P20 5:K20/ha. Response of bio fertilizers on potato tuber yield was found highly
. · · significant: Soil reaction, . available P and exchangeable K in soil did -not show distinct
change while total N and organic matter had very small increment over the time.
Higher incremental BIG ratio was obtained when EM along with FYM was applied
followed by Azotobacter, EM and FYM.

Field experiments were conducted in an acidic soil to assess the respons.e of
potassium (K20) in potato and its applicatiOf! methods. Six potassium levels (0, 50, 75,
100 kg ha·1 basal application, 50 kg basal plus 50 kg top dressed, and 50 kg basal
plus 50 kg sprayed) were tested to see the effects of potassium levels and methods of
their applications during three consecutive years (2000, 2001 & 2002). A randomized
complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications was employed in the experiments.
The variety used in the experiment was MS 42. Three years mean results in tuber
production showed that a maximum of 473.33 g plant"' of tubers were produced when
100 kg of potassium was applied basally. Highest tuber yields at 24.75 t ha-1 were
produced when 50 kg potassium was applied basally and 50 kg top- dressed, a total of
100 kg ha- 1• It can be recommended that a total of 100 K20 kg ha·' could be profitable.
Despite very high potassium content there is a response to potassium fertilization.

Field experiments were conducted in an acidic soil to assess the respons.e of
potassium (K20) in potato and its applicatiOf! methods. Six potassium levels (0, 50, 75,
100 kg ha·1 basal application, 50 kg basal plus 50 kg top dressed, and 50 kg basal
plus 50 kg sprayed) were tested to see the effects of potassium levels and methods of
their applications during three consecutive years (2000, 2001 & 2002). A randomized
complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications was employed in the experiments.
The variety used in the experiment was MS 42. Three years mean results in tuber
production showed that a maximum of 473.33 g plant"' of tubers were produced when
100 kg of potassium was applied basally. Highest tuber yields at 24.75 t ha-1 were
produced when 50 kg potassium was applied basally and 50 kg top- dressed, a total of
100 kg ha- 1• It can be recommended that a total of 100 K20 kg ha·' could be profitable.
Despite very high potassium content there is a response to potassium fertilization.

A field experiment-was carried out at RARS Parwanipur during 2003 and 2004 to
evaluate the potato clones. Plant emergence, uniformity and percent ground foliage
were significantly higher at clone 393280.64. Plant height was measured highest
(58.7 em) in clone 392637.10 and highest number of stems per plant (3.6) in clone
393385.39. Clones 385556.4 and 393077. 159 were found resistant to late blight
whereas clones 392657.8, 393280.64 and 392637.10 were tolerant to late blight. With
respect to total and marketable tuber yield, six potato clones were produced
significantly higher tuber yield as compared to check varieties. Based on the evaluation
parameters, late blight infection, tuber yield and agronomic characters, clones
388556.4, 392657.8, 392280.64, 392637.10, 393077.159 and 393385.39 were
selected for further evaluation.

A field experiment-was carried out at RARS Parwanipur during 2003 and 2004 to
evaluate the potato clones. Plant emergence, uniformity and percent ground foliage
were significantly higher at clone 393280.64. Plant height was measured highest
(58.7 em) in clone 392637.10 and highest number of stems per plant (3.6) in clone
393385.39. Clones 385556.4 and 393077. 159 were found resistant to late blight
whereas clones 392657.8, 393280.64 and 392637.10 were tolerant to late blight. With
respect to total and marketable tuber yield, six potato clones were produced
significantly higher tuber yield as compared to check varieties. Based on the evaluation
parameters, late blight infection, tuber yield and agronomic characters, clones
388556.4, 392657.8, 392280.64, 392637.10, 393077.159 and 393385.39 were
selected for further evaluation.

The major constraints for production of potatoes in Nepal are the poor quality and high
cost of seed tubers. Most successful and widely adoptable methodology in TPS has
been the use of seedling ·tubers for raising commercial crop. Twenty TPS families
received from International Potato Center Lima Peru were evaluated at National Potato
Research Program, Khumaltar, Agriculture Research Station Belachapi and Agriculture ·
Research Station Malepatan during 2005 and 2006 to see their performance. The
families were tested . in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three
replications. TPS family C95 LB 22.2 x TP$ 67 and HPS IV67 significantly .produced
the maximum tuber yield 5.4 kg/rrf and 7. 03 kg/rrf at Khumaltar and Belachapi,
respectively in the nursery beds in 2005. But, in 2006 significantly maximum
seedling tuber yield 7.90 kglrrf, 5.04 kg/rrf and 4. 76 kg/rrf w~s obtained from
C96H 10.25 x TPS 13, FLS 15 x TPS 67 and FLS 12 x TPS 67 at Khuma/tar,
Malepatan and Belachapi, respectively. In commercial crop, F1C1 tuberlets or
C96H 13.29 x TPS 67 and FLS 12 x TPS 13 significantly produced the m_aximum tuber
yield (20.73 kg/7.2 rrf and 14.02 kg/7.2 rrf) at Khumaltar and Belachapi, respectively
as compared to Desiree (12. 17 kg/7.2 rrf at Khumaltar) and Lalgulab {5.87 kg/7.2 rr( at
Belachapi). Based on overall performance the results· suggest that the. hybrid TPS
families produce equal. or higher tuber yield as compared to standard clonal varieties.

The major constraints for production of potatoes in Nepal are the poor quality and high
cost of seed tubers. Most successful and widely adoptable methodology in TPS has
been the use of seedling ·tubers for raising commercial crop. Twenty TPS families
received from International Potato Center Lima Peru were evaluated at National Potato
Research Program, Khumaltar, Agriculture Research Station Belachapi and Agriculture ·
Research Station Malepatan during 2005 and 2006 to see their performance. The
families were tested . in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three
replications. TPS family C95 LB 22.2 x TP$ 67 and HPS IV67 significantly .produced
the maximum tuber yield 5.4 kg/rrf and 7. 03 kg/rrf at Khumaltar and Belachapi,
respectively in the nursery beds in 2005. But, in 2006 significantly maximum
seedling tuber yield 7.90 kglrrf, 5.04 kg/rrf and 4. 76 kg/rrf w~s obtained from
C96H 10.25 x TPS 13, FLS 15 x TPS 67 and FLS 12 x TPS 67 at Khuma/tar,
Malepatan and Belachapi, respectively. In commercial crop, F1C1 tuberlets or
C96H 13.29 x TPS 67 and FLS 12 x TPS 13 significantly produced the m_aximum tuber
yield (20.73 kg/7.2 rrf and 14.02 kg/7.2 rrf) at Khumaltar and Belachapi, respectively
as compared to Desiree (12. 17 kg/7.2 rrf at Khumaltar) and Lalgulab {5.87 kg/7.2 rr( at
Belachapi). Based on overall performance the results· suggest that the. hybrid TPS
families produce equal. or higher tuber yield as compared to standard clonal varieties.

In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted in the tissue culture laboratory and
glasshouse of National Potato Research Programme, Khumaltar during 1997/98 to
minimize the cost of in vitro potato plantlets production. Use of sugar as substitute for
sucrose in culture showed no difference in the growth performance of in vitro potato
plantlets, and even in their yield performance under glasshouse condition. Culture of in
vitro potato plantlets on test tubes at the rate of 40 culture tubes per tray of 50 tubes
capacity was efficient than raising usual 30 culture tubes per tray, since both produced
more vigorous plantlets with higher nodal explants harvest as compared to culturing 50
tubes per tray. Culturing of 10 plantlets per bottle produced higher proportion of usable
nodal explants as compared to plantlets cultured at the rate of 12 and 15 plantlets per
bottle. Therefore, for the sustainable PBS production, sucrose could be substituted by
sugar in the cultures medium, in vitro potato plantlets subculture on trays at the rate of
40 tubes per tray and final multiplication of cultures on jam bottles at the rate .of 10
plantlets per bottle. A 37% cost reduction in the in vitro culture of potato was achieved
by intensive culture of plantlets on jam bottles.

In vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted in the tissue culture laboratory and
glasshouse of National Potato Research Programme, Khumaltar during 1997/98 to
minimize the cost of in vitro potato plantlets production. Use of sugar as substitute for
sucrose in culture showed no difference in the growth performance of in vitro potato
plantlets, and even in their yield performance under glasshouse condition. Culture of in
vitro potato plantlets on test tubes at the rate of 40 culture tubes per tray of 50 tubes
capacity was efficient than raising usual 30 culture tubes per tray, since both produced
more vigorous plantlets with higher nodal explants harvest as compared to culturing 50
tubes per tray. Culturing of 10 plantlets per bottle produced higher proportion of usable
nodal explants as compared to plantlets cultured at the rate of 12 and 15 plantlets per
bottle. Therefore, for the sustainable PBS production, sucrose could be substituted by
sugar in the cultures medium, in vitro potato plantlets subculture on trays at the rate of
40 tubes per tray and final multiplication of cultures on jam bottles at the rate .of 10
plantlets per bottle. A 37% cost reduction in the in vitro culture of potato was achieved
by intensive culture of plantlets on jam bottles.

A series of experiments were carried out at the Horticultural Research Station (HRS),
Rajikot, Jumla and farmers field during two consecutive years during 2006 and 2007
in order to identify suitable potato clones with good uniformity, color, shape and
resistant to pest and diseases and high productivity suitable for the Kamali region and
areas having similar agro-climatic zones of Nepal. All the experiments were designed
as Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The results of initial
evaluation trial (lET) revealed that clone Kufri Chipsona-2 was the highest yielder
(19.03 t/ha) followed by 394003.161 (18.57 t/ha) and 394051.4 (17.78 tlha). All the
potato clones evaluated under advance yield trial (A YT) were found comparable yield
with existing Jumla local cultivar ranging. Of six different clones tested in farmer's field
trial (FFT) clone 392222.25 was found highest yielder (13.9 t/ha) followed by Desiree
(13.8 t/ha). Out of four different true potato seed (TPS) families tested under FFT, HPS
Serana produced highest tuber yield (17.3 t/ha) followed by HPS II/67N (11.6 t/ha).
Among the storage structures tested pit storage was found to be the best store for
potato with -minimum weight loss (1.2 %) under Jumla conditions.

A series of experiments were carried out at the Horticultural Research Station (HRS),
Rajikot, Jumla and farmers field during two consecutive years during 2006 and 2007
in order to identify suitable potato clones with good uniformity, color, shape and
resistant to pest and diseases and high productivity suitable for the Kamali region and
areas having similar agro-climatic zones of Nepal. All the experiments were designed
as Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The results of initial
evaluation trial (lET) revealed that clone Kufri Chipsona-2 was the highest yielder
(19.03 t/ha) followed by 394003.161 (18.57 t/ha) and 394051.4 (17.78 tlha). All the
potato clones evaluated under advance yield trial (A YT) were found comparable yield
with existing Jumla local cultivar ranging. Of six different clones tested in farmer's field
trial (FFT) clone 392222.25 was found highest yielder (13.9 t/ha) followed by Desiree
(13.8 t/ha). Out of four different true potato seed (TPS) families tested under FFT, HPS
Serana produced highest tuber yield (17.3 t/ha) followed by HPS II/67N (11.6 t/ha).
Among the storage structures tested pit storage was found to be the best store for
potato with -minimum weight loss (1.2 %) under Jumla conditions.

To identify the best quality and high yielding genotypes for western hills a coordinate.d
varietal trial of Arabica species of coffee with nine g~notypes including local wareconducted
at Agriculture Research Station, Malepatan over three_ years (2004/05 to
2006/07). ·The berry production in first and third harvest was found highly significant ·
during first and third year of production. The variation in berry production was also
found to be significant in all the production years. Among the tested genotypes,
Cattura amerelo produced significantly the highest berry yield per plant during first
(5.56 kg} and third year "(3.88 kg) and was .at par with Bourbem vermelo. However,
Bourbem vermelo produced the highest yield per pl~nt (3.58 kg) during· second year
and was at par with Cattura amerelo (3.51 kg). Combined analysis of tested genotypes
over the years revealed that the Cattuta amerelo w~s found to be highly significant in
producing the highest berries yield per plant (4.32 kg} and was at par with Bourbem
vermelo (4.18 kg).

However, due to high caffeine content (1.5%} Bourbem vermelo has been considered
to be low quality bean for national and international trade as compared to Caltura
amerelo (1.3%). Genotype Cattura amerelo of Arabica species was found suitable
coffee production and recommended in the western mid hills of Nepal.

To identify the best quality and high yielding genotypes for western hills a coordinate.d
varietal trial of Arabica species of coffee with nine g~notypes including local wareconducted
at Agriculture Research Station, Malepatan over three_ years (2004/05 to
2006/07). ·The berry production in first and third harvest was found highly significant ·
during first and third year of production. The variation in berry production was also
found to be significant in all the production years. Among the tested genotypes,
Cattura amerelo produced significantly the highest berry yield per plant during first
(5.56 kg} and third year "(3.88 kg) and was .at par with Bourbem vermelo. However,
Bourbem vermelo produced the highest yield per pl~nt (3.58 kg) during· second year
and was at par with Cattura amerelo (3.51 kg). Combined analysis of tested genotypes
over the years revealed that the Cattuta amerelo w~s found to be highly significant in
producing the highest berries yield per plant (4.32 kg} and was at par with Bourbem
vermelo (4.18 kg).

However, due to high caffeine content (1.5%} Bourbem vermelo has been considered
to be low quality bean for national and international trade as compared to Caltura
amerelo (1.3%). Genotype Cattura amerelo of Arabica species was found suitable
coffee production and recommended in the western mid hills of Nepal.

Coffee (Coffea arabica) is produced in Nepal in limited areas under upland condition
without use of external inputs including chemical fertilizers and insecticides/pesticides.
It is emerging as a potential cash crop suitable among small holder farmers in the midhills
of Nepal. Coffee green bean production increased from 94 mt in 2093 to 218 mt in
2007. The ecological settings in the mid-hills provide Nepalese coffee a unique
opportunity to enter international specialty market. Nepali coffee is fetching an
attractive price in the international market as compared to regular bulk coffee produced
elsewhere. Export of green beans increased from 38 mt in 2004 to 112 mt in 2007.
Similarly, consumption in domestic market has also consistently increasing from 34 mt
in 2004 to 67 mt in 2007. To get recognized in the international specialty market Nepal
needs to improve the quality of coffee and increase the production through increased
productivity in potential pocket areas. Production of coffee in Nepal is lower than the
demand of the traders. Growth in demand of Nepali coffee and diversification of the
market has made coffee production increasingly attractive. However, limited
government support without long-term planning is the main constraint in the
development of coffee sector. There is an urgent need of research to develop improved
production and processing technologies. The need of the coffee sector is the organic
production and processing system to improve the productivity and quality of coffee with
transparent marketing system where the producers and village level processors are not
exploited.

Coffee (Coffea arabica) is produced in Nepal in limited areas under upland condition
without use of external inputs including chemical fertilizers and insecticides/pesticides.
It is emerging as a potential cash crop suitable among small holder farmers in the midhills
of Nepal. Coffee green bean production increased from 94 mt in 2093 to 218 mt in
2007. The ecological settings in the mid-hills provide Nepalese coffee a unique
opportunity to enter international specialty market. Nepali coffee is fetching an
attractive price in the international market as compared to regular bulk coffee produced
elsewhere. Export of green beans increased from 38 mt in 2004 to 112 mt in 2007.
Similarly, consumption in domestic market has also consistently increasing from 34 mt
in 2004 to 67 mt in 2007. To get recognized in the international specialty market Nepal
needs to improve the quality of coffee and increase the production through increased
productivity in potential pocket areas. Production of coffee in Nepal is lower than the
demand of the traders. Growth in demand of Nepali coffee and diversification of the
market has made coffee production increasingly attractive. However, limited
government support without long-term planning is the main constraint in the
development of coffee sector. There is an urgent need of research to develop improved
production and processing technologies. The need of the coffee sector is the organic
production and processing system to improve the productivity and quality of coffee with
transparent marketing system where the producers and village level processors are not
exploited.

Coffee (Coffea arabica) is produced in Nepal in limited areas under upland condition
without use of external inputs including chemical fertilizers and insecticides/pesticides.
It is emerging as a potential cash crop suitable among small holder farmers in the midhills
of Nepal. Coffee green bean production increased from 94 mt in 2093 to 218 mt in
2007. The ecological settings in the mid-hills provide Nepalese coffee a unique
opportunity to enter international specialty market. Nepali coffee is fetching an
attractive price in the international market as compared to regular bulk coffee produced
elsewhere. Export of green beans increased from 38 mt in 2004 to 112 mt in 2007.
Similarly, consumption in domestic market has also consistently increasing from 34 mt
in 2004 to 67 mt in 2007. To get recognized in the international specialty market Nepal
needs to improve the quality of coffee and increase the production through increased
productivity in potential pocket areas. Production of coffee in Nepal is lower than the
demand of the traders. Growth in demand of Nepali coffee and diversification of the
market has made coffee production increasingly attractive. However, limited
government support without long-term planning is the main constraint in the
development of coffee sector. There is an urgent need of research to develop improved
production and processing technologies. The need of the coffee sector is the organic
production and processing system to improve the productivity and quality of coffee with
transparent marketing system where the producers and village level processors are not
exploited.

Coffee (Coffea arabica) is produced in Nepal in limited areas under upland condition
without use of external inputs including chemical fertilizers and insecticides/pesticides.
It is emerging as a potential cash crop suitable among small holder farmers in the midhills
of Nepal. Coffee green bean production increased from 94 mt in 2093 to 218 mt in
2007. The ecological settings in the mid-hills provide Nepalese coffee a unique
opportunity to enter international specialty market. Nepali coffee is fetching an
attractive price in the international market as compared to regular bulk coffee produced
elsewhere. Export of green beans increased from 38 mt in 2004 to 112 mt in 2007.
Similarly, consumption in domestic market has also consistently increasing from 34 mt
in 2004 to 67 mt in 2007. To get recognized in the international specialty market Nepal
needs to improve the quality of coffee and increase the production through increased
productivity in potential pocket areas. Production of coffee in Nepal is lower than the
demand of the traders. Growth in demand of Nepali coffee and diversification of the
market has made coffee production increasingly attractive. However, limited
government support without long-term planning is the main constraint in the
development of coffee sector. There is an urgent need of research to develop improved
production and processing technologies. The need of the coffee sector is the organic
production and processing system to improve the productivity and quality of coffee with
transparent marketing system where the producers and village level processors are not
exploited.

Coffee (Cofffea spp) is an important and emerging cash gener_ating crop after tea in the
mountains of Nepal. The study was carried out in 2007 by a multi disciplinary team of
economics and horticulture in order to explore economics of coffee production system.
The study uses combination of review, participatory rural appraisals (PRA) and sample
household suNey to collect information on coffee production and marketing from
selected pockets of Syangja and Gulmi districts. The primary data were collected from
suNey of purposively selected 65 coffee producing farm households from two villages:
Sirubare-Syangja and Digam-Gu/mi. The findings showed that currently coffee is grown
in small-scale organic production system with limited use of modem technologies and
improved practices. Varieties used in production are traditional and low yielding.
Average coffee farm size is 1.36 ropani. Mean yield of fresh cherry is 169 kg per
ropani. Coffee is an important contributor of household income. Economic analysis
revealed . that coffee production is profitable in both the villages. The important
constraints identified are white stem borer followed by Jack of improved seedlings,
adverse and poor soils inadequate shedding, low market price, delay in payment, lack
of credit facility and labor shortage.

Coffee (Cofffea spp) is an important and emerging cash gener_ating crop after tea in the
mountains of Nepal. The study was carried out in 2007 by a multi disciplinary team of
economics and horticulture in order to explore economics of coffee production system.
The study uses combination of review, participatory rural appraisals (PRA) and sample
household suNey to collect information on coffee production and marketing from
selected pockets of Syangja and Gulmi districts. The primary data were collected from
suNey of purposively selected 65 coffee producing farm households from two villages:
Sirubare-Syangja and Digam-Gu/mi. The findings showed that currently coffee is grown
in small-scale organic production system with limited use of modem technologies and
improved practices. Varieties used in production are traditional and low yielding.
Average coffee farm size is 1.36 ropani. Mean yield of fresh cherry is 169 kg per
ropani. Coffee is an important contributor of household income. Economic analysis
revealed . that coffee production is profitable in both the villages. The important
constraints identified are white stem borer followed by Jack of improved seedlings,
adverse and poor soils inadequate shedding, low market price, delay in payment, lack
of credit facility and labor shortage.

Field experiment was carried out to s dy he performance of coffee o growth at
Agricult re Research Station. Six differe ~ doses of orga ic and inorganic ertifizers
were applied in four varieties namely Pacamara, Selec ion-10, Tekisic and Yello
Caturra. The experime t was laid o i a actorial rando ized comple e block
design a d replica .ed three times. The combination of farm yard manure @ 10 t ha·
plus 100:30:60 kg N:P20 5:K20 ha· , gave maximum plant heigh (105.87cm), girt
at 10cm (8.31cm) and at 20cm (7.34cm). Higher number of branches 22.38, and
followed by farm yard manure @ 10 a· only for plant heigh (87.98cm) and
number of branches and (19.17) respec ive/y. But girth at 10cm and 20cm heig
were 6.37cm and 5.56cm, respectively ' e ertilizers applieo' a a rae 2 :60:120
kg :P20 5:K20 ha· . T. e values on plan heig and girth at 10cm and 20cm '•'ere
observed o be maxim m d e tot e coffee variety "Tekisic" (101.17cm, 7.42cm and
6.35cm, respecti ely) and folio ed (9 .79cm, 6_.47cm a d 5.71c , espec i ely) by
he varie· "Se/ectio - 0". T. e umbe o · branc es we e obse 'led o be axim
(20. 75) in the variety aYello Caturra" and fo lio ed by "Se/ection-1 " (18. 16). The
result revealed that, the application of farm yard manure @ 10 t ha· + 100:30:60 kg
N:P20 5:K20 ha· , is the best manurial prac ice for proper plan growth and
development of coffee. The coffee varie ekisics performed the bes in its growth
at Malepatan condition.

Field experiment was carried out to s dy he performance of coffee o growth at
Agricult re Research Station. Six differe ~ doses of orga ic and inorganic ertifizers
were applied in four varieties namely Pacamara, Selec ion-10, Tekisic and Yello
Caturra. The experime t was laid o i a actorial rando ized comple e block
design a d replica .ed three times. The combination of farm yard manure @ 10 t ha·
plus 100:30:60 kg N:P20 5:K20 ha· , gave maximum plant heigh (105.87cm), girt
at 10cm (8.31cm) and at 20cm (7.34cm). Higher number of branches 22.38, and
followed by farm yard manure @ 10 a· only for plant heigh (87.98cm) and
number of branches and (19.17) respec ive/y. But girth at 10cm and 20cm heig
were 6.37cm and 5.56cm, respectively ' e ertilizers applieo' a a rae 2 :60:120
kg :P20 5:K20 ha· . T. e values on plan heig and girth at 10cm and 20cm '•'ere
observed o be maxim m d e tot e coffee variety "Tekisic" (101.17cm, 7.42cm and
6.35cm, respecti ely) and folio ed (9 .79cm, 6_.47cm a d 5.71c , espec i ely) by
he varie· "Se/ectio - 0". T. e umbe o · branc es we e obse 'led o be axim
(20. 75) in the variety aYello Caturra" and fo lio ed by "Se/ection-1 " (18. 16). The
result revealed that, the application of farm yard manure @ 10 t ha· + 100:30:60 kg
N:P20 5:K20 ha· , is the best manurial prac ice for proper plan growth and
development of coffee. The coffee varie ekisics performed the bes in its growth
at Malepatan condition.

Blister blight caused by Exobasidium vexans Massee is a major disease of tea in Nepal
which inflicted severe crop losses. An experiment was conducted in RCBD with four
replications during 2061/62, 2062/63 and 2063/54 to test effectiveness of locally
available botanicals in crude form for the management of blister blight under natural
epiphytotic condition at Guranse Tea Estates, Dhankuta and Chiya Bistar Yojana, &
11/am. The treatments were Multi-Neem (4 mVIit of water), Titepati 20% solution (2 kg
fresh green leaf in 21iter of water), Sisnu 20% solution (2 kg fresh green leaf in 21iter of
water), Banmara 20% solution (2 kg green leaf in 21it water) and 5% mixture of Neem,
Titepati, Sisnu, and Banmara solution in 2 liter of water and water spray as control.
Mixture of Neem, Titepati, Sisnu, and Banmara was found effective for the
management of blister blight of tea. Hence, this mixture treatment was found superior
than other individual treatments and also increased green leaves tea yield. Most of the
tea planters have been using chemical pesticide.s at higher dose to manage this
disease. This practice leads misuse and overuse of chemical pesticides on tea which
creates various problems on human health, water and environmental pollution. Tea as
a value added exportable commodity and possibility of toxic residues in the processed
tea is a major concern to the consumers. Therefore, this investigation could be helpful
to reduce misuse and overuse of chemical pesticides, safe for human health and
reduce water and environmental degradation.

Blister blight caused by Exobasidium vexans Massee is a major disease of tea in Nepal
which inflicted severe crop losses. An experiment was conducted in RCBD with four
replications during 2061/62, 2062/63 and 2063/54 to test effectiveness of locally
available botanicals in crude form for the management of blister blight under natural
epiphytotic condition at Guranse Tea Estates, Dhankuta and Chiya Bistar Yojana, &
11/am. The treatments were Multi-Neem (4 mVIit of water), Titepati 20% solution (2 kg
fresh green leaf in 21iter of water), Sisnu 20% solution (2 kg fresh green leaf in 21iter of
water), Banmara 20% solution (2 kg green leaf in 21it water) and 5% mixture of Neem,
Titepati, Sisnu, and Banmara solution in 2 liter of water and water spray as control.
Mixture of Neem, Titepati, Sisnu, and Banmara was found effective for the
management of blister blight of tea. Hence, this mixture treatment was found superior
than other individual treatments and also increased green leaves tea yield. Most of the
tea planters have been using chemical pesticide.s at higher dose to manage this
disease. This practice leads misuse and overuse of chemical pesticides on tea which
creates various problems on human health, water and environmental pollution. Tea as
a value added exportable commodity and possibility of toxic residues in the processed
tea is a major concern to the consumers. Therefore, this investigation could be helpful
to reduce misuse and overuse of chemical pesticides, safe for human health and
reduce water and environmental degradation.

A field experiment on ginger (Zingiber officinale Roce) genotypes was carried out at
Ginger Research Program (GRP), Kapurkot, Salyan from 2061/62 - 2063/64 to
evaluate the performance of ginger genotypes selected from the continuous germplasm
evaluation for better yield. Seven genotypes including local were evaluated in
randomize complete block design with three replications. Treatments were:Z/-8506,
Z/-8504, Z/-8502, Z/-8503, Z/-9729, KK-1 and local as a check. All recommended
package of practices were followed during the experimentatopm. Result of the yield
performance revealed significant difference during 2063/64 with highest yield (39. 5tlha)
from the genotype Z/-8506 followed by 39.2 tlha of Zl-8504 genotype.

A field experiment on ginger (Zingiber officinale Roce) genotypes was carried out at
Ginger Research Program (GRP), Kapurkot, Salyan from 2061/62 - 2063/64 to
evaluate the performance of ginger genotypes selected from the continuous germplasm
evaluation for better yield. Seven genotypes including local were evaluated in
randomize complete block design with three replications. Treatments were:Z/-8506,
Z/-8504, Z/-8502, Z/-8503, Z/-9729, KK-1 and local as a check. All recommended
package of practices were followed during the experimentatopm. Result of the yield
performance revealed significant difference during 2063/64 with highest yield (39. 5tlha)
from the genotype Z/-8506 followed by 39.2 tlha of Zl-8504 genotype.

Field e;cperiments were conducted for three consecutive years (2005 -2007) in /lam to
study the effect of different rhizome covers in more than 25 year old large cardamom
plantation. Four different rhizome covers; old pseudo stems, shrubs and twigs, mixture
of old pseudo stems with shrubs and bamboo mat support on lower side of clumps
were tested against traditional practice of leaving old bush as such. These rhizome
covers were tested in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four
replications. Unit plot size was 9 Sq m with a total experimental area of 180 Sq m. The
effect of different rhizome covers was found significant on yield and yield attributing
characters. Highest number of new pseudo stems (26.9 and 32.2) was recorded in
shrubs and twigs and lowest (10.1 and 14.5) in traditional practice in two years
respectively. Highest number of bracts (480) and capsules (647) were recorded in plots
with bamboo mat. This rhizome cover treatment might provide large cardamom
growers reluctant . to remove old bushes with an alternate method of increasing
productivity of old plantation.

Field e;cperiments were conducted for three consecutive years (2005 -2007) in /lam to
study the effect of different rhizome covers in more than 25 year old large cardamom
plantation. Four different rhizome covers; old pseudo stems, shrubs and twigs, mixture
of old pseudo stems with shrubs and bamboo mat support on lower side of clumps
were tested against traditional practice of leaving old bush as such. These rhizome
covers were tested in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four
replications. Unit plot size was 9 Sq m with a total experimental area of 180 Sq m. The
effect of different rhizome covers was found significant on yield and yield attributing
characters. Highest number of new pseudo stems (26.9 and 32.2) was recorded in
shrubs and twigs and lowest (10.1 and 14.5) in traditional practice in two years
respectively. Highest number of bracts (480) and capsules (647) were recorded in plots
with bamboo mat. This rhizome cover treatment might provide large cardamom
growers reluctant . to remove old bushes with an alternate method of increasing
productivity of old plantation.

A field experiment was conducted at Fikkal VDC of flam district with an objective to see
the changes of soil reaction due to liming at different dose of agricultural lime in large
cardamom declining areas. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete
block design with four treatments and replicated four times. Soil samples were
collected and analyzed with SMP buffer for lime requirement. Initially the soil pH was
4.99 and it increased up ·to 6. 77 in the plots treated with maximum limit of lime. Soil
reaction was found increased from the initial values (4.99) in the soil treated according
to the intended level.

A field experiment was conducted at Fikkal VDC of flam district with an objective to see
the changes of soil reaction due to liming at different dose of agricultural lime in large
cardamom declining areas. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete
block design with four treatments and replicated four times. Soil samples were
collected and analyzed with SMP buffer for lime requirement. Initially the soil pH was
4.99 and it increased up ·to 6. 77 in the plots treated with maximum limit of lime. Soil
reaction was found increased from the initial values (4.99) in the soil treated according
to the intended level.

Large cardamom seed remain dormant for six to eight months in field conditions. In
addition, poor and irregular germination is the major problem in nursery raising of large
cardamom. Different factors causing dormancy were studied in 2062/63-2063/64 at
Agricultural Research Station, Pakhribas and Seed Technology Research Division,
Khumaltar. Large Cardamom cv. Ramsahi was subjected to following hypothesis;
dormancy due to poor water permeability, poor oxygen exchange, presen_s;e- of water
soluble inhibitors, embryo immaturity or a combination of more than one factors. Hard
seed coat did not impose significant barriers to moisture uptake in large cardamom
seed. Different dormancy relieving treatments to test the above hypothesis differed
significantly in number of germinated seed placed in alternating temperature regime of
30°C and 200C for 8 and 16/:Jrs respectively. Earliest germination within 30 days was
I
observed in seed treated for embryo maturation and oxygen permeability and highest
percent germination (66%} was observed in the first four months in seed treated for
oxygen permeability. Seed treated for oxygen permeability after 3 minutes scarification
with uniform sized gravels when sown in nursery showed > 40% germination in field in
the first four months. It can be concluded that not one but the combination of above
mentioned factors are responsible for causing dormancy in large cardamom.

Large cardamom seed remain dormant for six to eight months in field conditions. In
addition, poor and irregular germination is the major problem in nursery raising of large
cardamom. Different factors causing dormancy were studied in 2062/63-2063/64 at
Agricultural Research Station, Pakhribas and Seed Technology Research Division,
Khumaltar. Large Cardamom cv. Ramsahi was subjected to following hypothesis;
dormancy due to poor water permeability, poor oxygen exchange, presen_s;e- of water
soluble inhibitors, embryo immaturity or a combination of more than one factors. Hard
seed coat did not impose significant barriers to moisture uptake in large cardamom
seed. Different dormancy relieving treatments to test the above hypothesis differed
significantly in number of germinated seed placed in alternating temperature regime of
30°C and 200C for 8 and 16/:Jrs respectively. Earliest germination within 30 days was
I
observed in seed treated for embryo maturation and oxygen permeability and highest
percent germination (66%} was observed in the first four months in seed treated for
oxygen permeability. Seed treated for oxygen permeability after 3 minutes scarification
with uniform sized gravels when sown in nursery showed > 40% germination in field in
the first four months. It can be concluded that not one but the combination of above
mentioned factors are responsible for causing dormancy in large cardamom.

Large cardamom seed remain dormant for six to eight months in field conditions. In
addition, poor and irregular germination is the major problem in nursery raising of large
cardamom. Different factors causing dormancy were studied in 2062/63-2063/64 at
Agricultural Research Station, Pakhribas and Seed Technology Research Division,
Khumaltar. Large Cardamom cv. Ramsahi was subjected to following hypothesis;
dormancy due to poor water permeability, poor oxygen exchange, presen_s;e- of water
soluble inhibitors, embryo immaturity or a combination of more than one factors. Hard
seed coat did not impose significant barriers to moisture uptake in large cardamom
seed. Different dormancy relieving treatments to test the above hypothesis differed
significantly in number of germinated seed placed in alternating temperature regime of
30°C and 200C for 8 and 16/:Jrs respectively. Earliest germination within 30 days was
I
observed in seed treated for embryo maturation and oxygen permeability and highest
percent germination (66%} was observed in the first four months in seed treated for
oxygen permeability. Seed treated for oxygen permeability after 3 minutes scarification
with uniform sized gravels when sown in nursery showed > 40% germination in field in
the first four months. It can be concluded that not one but the combination of above
mentioned factors are responsible for causing dormancy in large cardamom.

Large cardamom seed remain dormant for six to eight months in field conditions. In
addition, poor and irregular germination is the major problem in nursery raising of large
cardamom. Different factors causing dormancy were studied in 2062/63-2063/64 at
Agricultural Research Station, Pakhribas and Seed Technology Research Division,
Khumaltar. Large Cardamom cv. Ramsahi was subjected to following hypothesis;
dormancy due to poor water permeability, poor oxygen exchange, presen_s;e- of water
soluble inhibitors, embryo immaturity or a combination of more than one factors. Hard
seed coat did not impose significant barriers to moisture uptake in large cardamom
seed. Different dormancy relieving treatments to test the above hypothesis differed
significantly in number of germinated seed placed in alternating temperature regime of
30°C and 200C for 8 and 16/:Jrs respectively. Earliest germination within 30 days was
I
observed in seed treated for embryo maturation and oxygen permeability and highest
percent germination (66%} was observed in the first four months in seed treated for
oxygen permeability. Seed treated for oxygen permeability after 3 minutes scarification
with uniform sized gravels when sown in nursery showed > 40% germination in field in
the first four months. It can be concluded that not one but the combination of above
mentioned factors are responsible for causing dormancy in large cardamom.

Laporatory experiments were carried out at National Citrus Research Program,
Dhankuta for two consecutive years {2002/2003 to 2003/2004}. in order to optimize in
vitro plant regeneration protocol of large cardamom for elimination of Chirke and f:orke
viral diseases. Meristemic tissues from the newly emerged shoots were isolated under
laminar flow hood and cultured on MS media {1962) suppl~mented with BAP tmg/litrefor
regeneration of meristem. For shoot proliferation, eight different levels of BAP were
tested in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The
best treatment, in terms of respons_e frequency and mean nuinber of axillary shoots per . .
f!JXplant was on MS medium {1962} supplemented with 8.0 mgllitre BAP (7.75 snootS"
per explant). Effective stem elongation was observed on MS medium. {1962)
supplemented with 1 mg/litre GA3_ where as effective rooting was observed on MS
medium (1962) supplemented with 1.0 mg/litre NAA. The in vitro rooted plantlets were
acclimatized in polyetha.ne bags inside plastic tunnel for four weeks followed by
transf()rring them into the glasshouse. The results reveled that an efficient system for in
vitro plant regeneration by multiple shoot formation from meristemic tissue of large
cardamom has been successfully established, thus it will be useful for the rapid
multiplication of disease free planting materials for commerctal plantation.

Laporatory experiments were carried out at National Citrus Research Program,
Dhankuta for two consecutive years {2002/2003 to 2003/2004}. in order to optimize in
vitro plant regeneration protocol of large cardamom for elimination of Chirke and f:orke
viral diseases. Meristemic tissues from the newly emerged shoots were isolated under
laminar flow hood and cultured on MS media {1962) suppl~mented with BAP tmg/litrefor
regeneration of meristem. For shoot proliferation, eight different levels of BAP were
tested in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The
best treatment, in terms of respons_e frequency and mean nuinber of axillary shoots per . .
f!JXplant was on MS medium {1962} supplemented with 8.0 mgllitre BAP (7.75 snootS"
per explant). Effective stem elongation was observed on MS medium. {1962)
supplemented with 1 mg/litre GA3_ where as effective rooting was observed on MS
medium (1962) supplemented with 1.0 mg/litre NAA. The in vitro rooted plantlets were
acclimatized in polyetha.ne bags inside plastic tunnel for four weeks followed by
transf()rring them into the glasshouse. The results reveled that an efficient system for in
vitro plant regeneration by multiple shoot formation from meristemic tissue of large
cardamom has been successfully established, thus it will be useful for the rapid
multiplication of disease free planting materials for commerctal plantation.

Poor and irregular germiniition of large cardamom seed become a problem of
nursery growers and recalcitrant nature and dormancy are believed to be the
factors responsible with it. An experiment was carried for three consecutive years
to identify the seed viability period stored in different conditions with different seed
moisture level using tetrazolium test. The ·results showed that the seed remain
viable (>80%) even dried to less than 11% moisture level in electric oven. There
was non-significant difference in seed viability stored under refrigerator and
ambient condition till 150 days after seed drying by both methods. However, effect
of storage duration was prominent (p>.001) where viability was not statistically
different between 15 and 60 days after drying. The result has clearly proved that
large cardamom seed has orthodox behavior of storage despite farmers' notion of
recalcitrant nature of the seed. In addition to th(s finding, light has been shed to the
other basic information of large cardamom seed.

Poor and irregular germiniition of large cardamom seed become a problem of
nursery growers and recalcitrant nature and dormancy are believed to be the
factors responsible with it. An experiment was carried for three consecutive years
to identify the seed viability period stored in different conditions with different seed
moisture level using tetrazolium test. The ·results showed that the seed remain
viable (>80%) even dried to less than 11% moisture level in electric oven. There
was non-significant difference in seed viability stored under refrigerator and
ambient condition till 150 days after seed drying by both methods. However, effect
of storage duration was prominent (p>.001) where viability was not statistically
different between 15 and 60 days after drying. The result has clearly proved that
large cardamom seed has orthodox behavior of storage despite farmers' notion of
recalcitrant nature of the seed. In addition to th(s finding, light has been shed to the
other basic information of large cardamom seed.

Fruitworm (Helicoverpa armigera) and yellow leaf curl virus have been the major
production constraints of spring season tomato across its major production domains in
mid-western region of Nepal. With the aim at increasing the accessibility of farmers'
preferred management techniques, Forum "for Rural Welfare and Agricultural Reform
for Development (FORWARD) in collaboration with District Agriculture Development
Offices Banke and Surkhet, and Manikapur Farmers Cooperative, Surkhet, carried out
on-farm trials using the treatments: (for borer- Helicoverpa Nuclear Polyhedrovirus
(HNPV), neem kernel extract, Bakaino leaf extract, timur seed extract, nettle leaf
decomposed in animal urine, and water; and for yellow leaf curl virus- cow milk,
Prevental, Rogor, animal urine and water. Experiments were carried out in 5 farmers'
fields, each in Sitapur VDC of Banke and Latikoili VDC of Surkhet maintaining the plot
size of 5 rrf per treatment in both rainy and spring season of 2006/07 and 2007/08,
respectively. The dynamics of the pests were monitored using both pheromone trap
(Helilure) and trap crops (sunflower and yellow marigold) for borer, and yellow plastic
coated with grease or linseed oil for white fly that transfers virus from diseased to
healthy plants. This initiative employed participatory research and development
modality where farmers were involved in different stakes of activities implementation so
as to empower them for the sustainable management of the pests. The empirical
evidences have shown that HNPV @ 3 mVI significantly reduced the pest by 60% (up
to 100% in laboratory condition) and increased the yield by 60-90%. This was followed
by cypermethrin @ 1 mVI, neem seed kernel extract (1: 10 in water) and nettle extract
decomposed in animal urine (1:10 in water). One farmer group in Latikoili has started
recycling virus inoculum from larvae collected from the field. Moreover, this research
has concluded that sowing of sunflower seed @ 10-12 plants/Kattha in boarder rows
about 7 days earlier than transplanting tomato seedlings in the main field is effective.
Moreover, spraying fresh cow/buffalo milk {10-15 mill three times after initiation of the
disease was found effective for the management of virus disease (TYLCV) as most of
the diseased plants revived after the application of spray treatments across the trials
and thus significantly increased the yield and productivity of tomato.