No abstract

A field study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different plant growth regulators (PGRs) applied through seed priming and foliar spray on growth and yield of three okra cultivars grown under calcareous soils. The cultivars of Punjab Selection and Sabzpari produced significantly higher number of branches and leaves per plant, pod length and diameter and pod yield as compared to cv. Green ferry, while, cv. Punjab selection produced significantly greater number of flowers and pods per plant as compared to other two cultivars. Seed germination (%), plant height, and fruit set (%) were not affected by the cultivars. Among the PGR treatments, seed primed with GA3 resulted in significantly higher germination percentage and greater plant height at flowering. Seed priming and foliar spray with NAA and GA3 were effective in increasing the final plant height, number of branches, number of leaves, number of flowers and number of pods per plant and fruit set (%), fresh weight per pod and pod yield. However, pod diameter, pod moisture content and dry weight per pod were not influenced by the PGR treatments applied. These results suggested that the PGRs have great potential to improve seed germination, enhance growth and increase yield of okra cultivars under calcareous soils.

Several incidents, including food adulteration, misinterpretation of food characteristics, and, most recently, the spread of the Covid-19 disease, have stunned consumer confidence and bolstered the need for creating traceability in the Food Supply Chain. This study aims to assess the knowledge level of mango growers food traceability and assess factors influencing their intention toward a scientific traceable value chain in Multan, Pakistan. The study also examines the perceived challenges in implementing a traceable value chain in the mango industry. However, 40 mango growers were purposively selected. Data were collected through interview schedules using structured and unstructured questionnaires. The empirical results show that respondents had a low level of knowledge regarding the mango traceable value chain. Also, the results from multiple regression analysis revealed that knowledge and attitude have a statistically significant positive impact on growers' intention toward the mango traceable value chain. However, the study highlighted a lack of awareness, skills, and resources as challenges preventing growers from implementing a scientifically traceable mango value chain. The findings provide valuable inputs for policymakers to design an effective training program to develop the culture of traceability practices among mango growers and other stakeholders in the industry in Pakistan.