No abstract

No abstract

With high density plantings becoming increasingly popular, a need has developed for pruning techniques and cultivars supporting this cultivation method. Central leader pruning is well suited for high density planting as it enables greater space utilisation. After studying a Maluma orchard on Allesbeste, Limpopo, South Africa, Maluma has been identified as a cultivar that is well suited for central leader pruning methods. Maluma, a less vigorous, precocious and productive early bearing Hass-like cultivar, is characterised by a visible natural central leader, with prominent lateral branching ( ≥ 90º angle). The pruning of trees planted in the field should commence during the first year from planting. The pruning method implies the selection of the strongest vertical shoot as your central leader, then removing all other vertical growth, which leaves you with pyramid-shaped trees. The sylleptic growth habit of Maluma supports this pruning technique which results in highly productive lateral branches. This pruning method increases light penetration and supports the moving of the volumetric production capacity of the tree closer to the ground, utilising space better as well as enabling picking to be done faster and more efficiently. The production capabilities of high density planting is tremendous as the surface area planted is being utilised better. Most farmers are cautious to commit to high density plantings as pruning is seen as a mammoth task. However in this study it is illustrated that with the supportive characteristics of Maluma, high density plantings are a viable option lowering input costs without sacrificing productivity.

The study introduced a simple, reliable procedure for the in vitro culture and standardization of indigenous plant Ocimum basilicum. A potential antibacterial activity was observed in the extracts (chloroform, methanol and petroleum ether) of Ocimum basilicum against selected bacterial strains (MTCC type strains) and their MIC (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration) values were 62.5 and 125 µg mL-1. Existence of tannin, carbohydtares, phenolic compounds, proteins and aminoacids, anthraquinone glycosides, alkaloids were confirmed by phytochemical analysis. In vitro propagation from nodal explants and shoot tip of O. basilicum showed a higher level frequency of micro shoots on MS medium containing plant growth regulators at various combinations and concentrations. The nodal explants produced maximum shooting response (98 %); maximum shoot length (7.9 cm) and maximum multiple shoot formation (n=4.5) in BAP containing medium after 40 days. A 50% concentration of MS medium with combination of IBA and BAP showed maximum rooting response (78 %), maximum number of roots (n=12) and maximum length of root (8.67 cm) after 25 days. The regenerates were then hardened off and young plants were transferred to field. Nodal explants in MS medium with 2, 4-D showed a fast growth and pale brown colored calli.