Article Archive: Volume 4 Issue 1 2025

Hydrangea Cultivation: Advances in Propagation, Soil Management, and Disease Control

  • Rupali Thakur1
  • Rajesh Thakur2
  • Choudhary Nandini Chandermohan2
  • Babita Kanwar2
  • Sourav Sharma1

Introduction Hydrangeas, often hailed as the “Queen of the Flowering Shrubs,” comprise a diverse genus of evergreen and deciduous shrubs, small trees, and even woody climbers. Belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, these captivating plants are renowned for their showy flower heads and are prized possessions in gardens across Europe, North America, and Asia [6]. Thriving in temperate climates with ample moisture, hydrangeas boast a global appeal, consistently ranking among the top ten flowering pot plants, particularly during festive seasons like Easter and Mother’s Day. Characterized by their large, vibrant flower heads, hydrangeas display a spectrum of colors, including white, red, purple, pink, and blue. Their foliage is equally enchanting, featuring beautiful oval to circular leaves with wavy edges and prominent veins. The star-shaped flowers, often sterile, are arranged in clusters known as corymbs or panicles. The genus encompasses approximately 25 hardy species, with prominent members including H. macrophylla, H. arborescens, H. serrata, H. paniculata, and H. quercifolia. A comprehensive taxonomic description of hydrangeas was provided by [16], identifying 23 species with a diverse geographical distribution across temperate and tropical regions of eastern Asia, eastern North America, and South America. While boasting a rich natural diversity, H. macrophylla cultivars exhibit limited genetic variation due to their restricted native range and the impact of breeding programs with overlapping objectives [9],[22]. Today’s cultivars largely descend from plants developed during the early 20th century through controlled crosses, open pollination, or the selection of unique branches (sports) from wild-collected germplasm. H. macrophylla stands as a particularly celebrated species, widely cultivated both as a vibrant potted plant for indoor enjoyment and as a stunning deciduous shrub that graces landscapes worldwide [3[,[6]. Beyond their ornamental value in gardens, hydrangeas have also gained significant popularity as cut flowers. Renowned for their vibrant hues, they boast the most intense color spectrum among hydrangea species, extending beyond the traditional pinks and blues [4]. Historically, hydrangea cultivation primarily focused on the spring pot plant market in established floriculture nations. However, cultivating hydrangeas has emerged as a highly profitable endeavor, mirroring the success of other prominent cut flower crops like roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations. As flowering pot plants, hydrangeas can be produced year-round, catering to consistent demand. The economic impact of hydrangea cultivation is substantial. In the United States alone, over 1,500 nurseries were involved in hydrangea production, with annual sales exceeding 10 million plants. This significant market share accounted for 13.5% of the total annual U.S. shrub sales, translating to a substantial economic value of $91.2 million within the broader $676.6 million shrub market [21]. H. macrophylla: Commonly known as Bigleaf, Garden, or Mophead hydrangeas, Hydrangea macrophylla is a beloved deciduous shrub renowned for its large, showy flower heads. These vibrant blooms typically grace gardens from May to early July, adding a burst of color to summer landscapes. While the initial flowering period may fade, some reblooming varieties offer a second wave of blooms in the fall. Mophead varieties feature rounded, globe-like clusters of flowers, while lace-cap varieties exhibit a more delicate appearance with a ring of larger, showy outer petals surrounding a central cluster of smaller flowers. Flower colors can range from vibrant blues and purples to soft pinks, reds, and whites. Soil pH plays a significant role in determining flower color in some varieties [1]. Popular Cultivars: H. panniculata: Commonly known as panicle hydrangeas, is a captivating deciduous shrub or small tree native to East Asia, gracing gardens with its stunning late-summer blooms. These elegant plants are prized for their large, cone-shaped flower panicles that emerge in shades of white and gradually mature into captivating hues of pink, red, or even burgundy as the season progresses [20].  The defining characteristic of H. paniculata is its impressive flower panicles, often reaching significant size and boasting a mix of fertile and sterile florets.   Popular Cultivars: H. quercifolia: Commonly known as the Oakleaf Hydrangea and as the name suggests, H. quercifolia boasts large, lobed leaves that resemble those of oak trees. These leaves often display vibrant fall colors, ranging from deep burgundy to vibrant crimson. The large, cone-shaped flower panicles typically emerge in shades of white or cream and gradually mature to shades of pink or even burgundy as the season progresses. The inflorescences feature a combination of showy, sterile florets and smaller, fertile flowers, creating a visually appealing display. It typically flowers later than many other hydrangea species, with blooms appearing in early to mid-summer and often lasting well into the fall. While preferring acidic soil, H. quercifolia is generally adaptable to various soil conditions and thrives in both full sun and partial shade. Popular Cultivars: Garden Uses: Hydrangea species are versatile garden plants. They can be used as: Climatic conditions: H. macrophylla is a well-known cultivar. Hydrangeas can thrive in a semi-shady environment. A chilly, damp temperature is thought to be beneficial to growth and development. In India, it is primarily produced as a pot plant or for cut flowers in mountainous locations such as Kashmir, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Shillong, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and others [4]. From early spring through late October, the flowers can be produced. It is unable to withstand high temperatures. Warmer temperatures are required for species like H. arborescens cv. ‘Anabelle’ to acquire maximum aesthetic expression. Morning sun and afternoon shade are preferred by the bigleaf hydrangea. A temperature of 20⁰C promotes flower initiation and a temperature between 15-20⁰C is required for flower bud development. For the production of potted plants of H. macrophylla extra lighting and heating is necessary, it is profitable for very early market [18]. Adequate early development and bud initiation a minimum of 18⁰C night temperature with the short day length of 8 hours for at least 6 weeks is required. Soil: It can be grown on wide range of soil. H. macrophylla grow well in peat and peat/clay mixtures with pH 4.2 to 6.5. Hydrangea macrophylla’s flower color changes from deep blue to hot pink according on soil pH. When the soil pH is acidic (4.5-5.5), the hue will be … Read more

Chia Seed (Salvia hispanica L.) biology: A superfood cereal for healthy life – An overview

  • Kamrun Nahar

Introduction: Chia, a seed-bearing grain crop, scientific name Salvia hispanica, and a member of the Lamiaceae family. The seeds of the plant  are filled with large amounts of dietary fiber,  essential fatty acids -omega 3, and plenty of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals including antioxidantsThese important materials having a variety of benefits to boost the metabolism of human health, supporting teeth and bones health, improves digestive and cardiac health, reducing blood sugar and cholesterol  levels, improves the immune system and  boosting weight loss including reduction of inflammation of human body Besides having medicinal values/ properties, the seeds are used to prepare bread, cake, chips, Frankfurter, ice cream, and pudding including adding in drinks providing lot of energy to keep our body fit .The oil after extraction of seed could also be used as a nutritious addition in smoothies and other meals, and support brain health as the fatty acids have neuroprotective effects that lead to reduced risk of stork, depression and Alzheimer’s disease including care of skin, hair and anticancer medicinal drug-related activities. Agronomy: The chia seeds, oval-shaped about 2 millimeters wide, tiny with a combination of black, grey, brown and white (Fig 1) considered as superfood as packed up with nutritional value and gaining attention in now a dayall over the world. Chia seeds can germinate in different types of soil including different media as soilless cultures(Fig 2)and can be cultivated commercially from both seeds and seedlings. However, growing plantlets from seeds can be the best part of propagating as they can germinate and grow in any substratum/ media (Fig 3 &4). Just sprinkle the seeds over the media, watering and after 3 days it will be germinated. Leaves of the plant are oppositely arranged, green, and thick, and have serrated (toothed) margins containing long petioles with net venation (Fig 5). It grows well in temperatures between 20-36 degrees Celsius, however, at higher temperatures germination and also the growth and development rates are higher compared to lower (Fig 6). Nutritional values: Chia seeds have tremendous nutritional value.100 grams of Chia seeds contain about 485 calories,6% water, 31 grams of heart-healthy fats ( omega 3 fatty acids), 34 gm dietary fiber, 42 grams of carbohydrates, 0 g sugar, 16 g proteinincluding including important amino acids as lysine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, valine, and histidine . Sources and Important uses: Sources of Fiber, vitamins and minerals: Chia seeds contain insoluble fiber like cellulose a potential part of humans’ daily diet, which helps to regulate the digestive system and remove harmful chemicals and waste materials from the body. Vitamins are crucial micronutrients that keep the body’s cells functioning. Seeds of chia are also an important source of protein, soluble fats with vitamins like A, D, E, K including vitamins B complex like thiamine (B1), and riboflavin (B2). niacin(B3), biotin (B7), folic acid(B9) and cyanocobalamin (B12). Like vitamins, minerals are also essential inorganic components for healthy body functions growth of biological systems and building of strong bones. Besides, chia seeds are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, copper, selenium, etc as essential minerals. Sources of antioxidant and Omega 3: Antioxidants (polyphenols and carotenoids) and Omega 3 are very important components for the proper functioning of the human body. Antioxidants generally protect the body cells from damage by slowing down the process of oxidation. Thus, seeds of chia are considered as important source of antioxidants, benefit the heart and liver and protect from early aging and certain types of cancer  Besides, seeds containing high omega 3 fatty acids, these fats play an active and vital role in digestion, helping to reduce blood pressure, risk of obesity including overall body functioning (Fig 7). Hair: Chia seeds contain essential amino acids, zinc and copper, prevent thinning of hair and thus helping hair growth Nervous system: Chia seeds contain omega 3 fatty acids including B vitamins which support, and nourish the brain and help the nervous system to work efficiently Circulatory system: Components of chia seeds helps to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and platelet aggregation including improving the efficiency of oxidation work as a blood thinner and ultimately protecting from cardiovascular disease (CVD) Respiratory system: Chia seeds are a good source of omega 3. Fatty acids of omega 3, act as active inflammatory nutrients with protective effects in inflammatory diseases. Therefore, to maintain healthy lungs we should take chia. Digestive system: The soluble fiber of chia seeds helps to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol, slow down the digestive process, including the prevention of blood sugar spikes after having a meal and provide a feeling of fullness. Besides, the fiber helps the stomach to produce good bacteria, keeping the digestive system to work properly. Urinary System: Good source of unsaturated fats help to offer bladder-supporting properties with anti-inflammatory benefits Reproductive system: Unsaturated Fatty acids of chia seeds, regulate hormones, promote ovulation and improve uterine and reproductive health In recent years, it has been used as a popular and nutritious ingredient in many food items all over the world to achieve potential health benefits Add in meals: To add in salad: Sprinkle chia seeds over the favorite and delicious salad every day to incorporate the nutritional benefits including reducing the urge to overeat, which helps reduce the weight  As oatmeal: As a cereal, chia seeds could be used as a nutritious and preferred oatmeal at breakfast, which help to keep the stomach full and reduce hunger for a longer time which ultimately slow down the digestion of carbohydrates. To prepare smoothies: Mixing chia seeds in drinks, especially in smoothies or other beverage recipes will help to boost fibers and nutrients in our body To prepare chia peanut butter:  To prepare a smooth paste to spread on toast or bread, could be prepared by chia seeds with peanut or any nut butter mixed in a blender until smooth to add in morning diet. To prepare baking goods: By adding chia seeds in dough of flour before baking to prepare tasty bread, cakes, … Read more

Evaluation of Improved Soybean Varieties (Glycine max) Under Rain Fed Condition for Traits of Yield and Yield component at Ari Zone, South Ethiopia

  • Temesgen Jerjero
  • Mihretu Muluneh

INTRODUCTION The soybean crop as one of the valuable economically  the most important oil and pulse crop  Ethiopia and in the world due to its lot of different purpose advantages as a source of livestock, aquaculture feed, protein, oil for the human diet, and biofuel besides producing grain yield [1]). The soyabean crop has the character of a primary low-cost source of protein for animal feed and most pre packaged meals, soy-vegetable oil is another valuable product of the processing.Soybeans can produce at least twice as much protein per acre than many other major vegetable or grain crops [2]. Soybean is  the most important  crops  as a source of protein (40%),35% carbohydrate, and 5% ash on a dry matter basis. Most developing countries are faced with extensive malnutrition and food insecurity, high oil content (20%), the best ingredient for industrial food complexes, and It also has a superior amino acid profile compared to other legumes  [3]. Soybean crop is well known as to in improving and amending soil properties through nitrogen fixation and enhanced moisture retention [4]. In Ethiopia food processing plc company has imported and used soybeans to prepare balanced food for infants and adults[5] knowdays the factory has been trying to improve the food values of other food types by mixing them with soybean flour, which indicates the importance of soybeans and its increment on the market[6].Soybean in Ethiopia, are cultivated over wider agroecologies that have moderate annual rainfall (500-1500mm [7] and  the crop grows  well in  between 1300 and 1800 m.a.s.l. and it requires temperature ranging from 23- 25oC and medium relative humidity for optimum yield production[8] ,[9] and grows best on well-drained loamy soils that are high in fertility. The crop does well in slightly acidic to neutral soils having a pH of about 5.7 to 6.2. The crop is a short-day plant and most varieties require about 12 hours of light, although some are less sensitive [10]. The crop  production and productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa counter results   increasing trends in the past ten years ago and are expected to increase in the later   [11]. In our countery  Ethiopia,  soyabean crop   has a total  land coverage  of 36,635.79 ha and  812,346.59 quintals of production in yield , and 22.17 quintals per hectare of production. In SNNPR a total of 209.28 ha of land was covered, 2,684.09 quintals of production, and 12.83 quintals per hectare of production were recorded [12]. Know days  soybean  crop is  important  and supported by government and non governmental organizations. At regional level, the yield of soyabean was limited in production   than the average potential  yield (12.83 quintals per hectare) under optimium crop management practice . [12]. In  the South Ethiopia and Central Ethiopia Regionis, the yield was limited because of  none adaptation and promotion of relased    varieties, lack of crop management   rainful distribution problem   soil fertility problem ,  different diseases and insect pests [13]. Know days   approximately 34 soybean varieties have been registerd for production  by different national and regional  research centers in Ethiopian  [14]. However, improved soyabean evaluation and its performance was not done and  recommended  in the past in the  Ari Zone . Soybean is  potential crop  in production in the  area of South Ethiopia   and Ari  Zone araeas. Therefore the experiment was done to evaluating   the performance of  recentely released  varieties that have high yielder  and recommend  for production and productivity in Ari Zone of South Ethiopia   and other similar  areas . MATERIALS AND METHODS  Reseach Area  Description The research trial was conducted at the Jinka Agricultural Research Center, located in Ari Zone, during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 main cropping seasons. Ari Zone is situated in the southern part of Ethiopia, with its administrative center, Jinka city, located approximately 729 km south of Addis Ababa. The geographical coordinates of Jinka are 36°33’–37°67″E and 5°46’–6°57″N, at an altitude of 1,450 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). The study area receives an average annual rainfall of 1,307.3 mm, distributed over two distinct seasons, and experiences average temperatures ranging from 21.0°C to 28.0°C. The soil at the experimental site is classified as sandy loam with a pH of 6.41, making it suitable for various agricultural practices [15]. Treatments and Experimental Procedures Twelve (12) improved soybean varieties such as:-  Nyala, Hawasa -95, Hawasa-04, Clark 63K, Melko bonsa, Gishama, Gazelle, Nova, Pawe-3, Afgat, Pawe-2, Coker-240 were evaluated in appropriate mothod of   randomized complete block design (RCBD) on (3) three replications. The trial had aplot  area of 4m x 5m (20 m2) separated by a distance of 1meter between plots within a block and 1.5 meter  between blocks within the experiment.  40 centimeter  between rows and 10 centimeter  between plants was maintained in spacing  and a seed rate of 60-70 kg/ ha was used according to the seed size of the crop. Cultivation, leveling, weeding, and other agronomic activities were applied equally to all the entry treatments at their proper time of application. Data Collection and Data Analysis Data collection was performed on both a plant and plot basis. Grain yield and hundred seed weight were recorded at the plot level, while key plant-based data were collected from selected plants within the middle rows of each plot. For parameters such as plant height, the number of pods per plant, and the number of seeds per pod, the average values of five randomly selected plants per experimental plot were used for statistical analysis. Grain yield data were measured from the five central rows of each plot and subsequently converted to a per-hectare basis. Hundred seed weights were determined by randomly selecting 100 seeds harvested from the five central rows of each plot and weighing them using a sensitive balance. For data analysis, the collected data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS software after verifying the assumptions of ANOVA. Treatment means were separated using the least significant difference (LSD) test at a 5% probability level. RESULT AND DISCUSSIONS  Results of Analysis of Variance  Combined analysis of variance was done to identify  the effects of … Read more