Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2

Author: A.V. Barad, Y.A. Viradiya, P.G. Mandod, P.D. Bhankhar and R.B. Mori

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Abstract

Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2 was conducted during the Kharif season of 2021-22 at the Department of Seed Technology, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar. The research employed a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and focused on the GNT 2 turmeric variety, evaluating seven different treatments and four combinations of rhizome sizes. Among these, the combination of mother rhizome (R4) and chiller treatment (T4) at 4°C for 2 hours demonstrated the highest values for various traits, including germination percentage (91.11%), plant height (70.29 cm), leaf length (40.14 cm), leaf width (15.22 cm), number of tillers per plant (4.07), mother rhizomes per plant (2.73), primary rhizomes per plant (8.40), secondary rhizomes per plant (10.00), rhizome length (16.63 cm), rhizome width (18.02 cm), and rhizome weight (219.48 g). Understanding and utilizing the interaction effect between rhizome size and treatments is crucial for optimizing turmeric growth and maximizing yield potential. The findings provide valuable insights for improving turmeric cultivation practices and advancing production techniques. However, implementing the precise conditions of optimal rhizome size and chiller treatment in real-world turmeric cultivation poses logistical challenges for farmers, requiring careful consideration and adaptation to practical farming scenarios.

Keywords

Chiller treatment, Curcuma longa, GNT 2, Mother rhizome

Conclusion

The study findings indicate that both finger and mother rhizomes produced healthy seedlings, but the mother rhizome outperformed due to its ample food reserves, resulting in vigorous growth and higher yields. Optimal seed root size in specific root crops maximizes solar energy utilization, promoting robust seedling and vegetative development for increased yield. Chilling treatment duration played a crucial role in breaking dormancy and enhancing germination and seedling emergence in turmeric. Notably, using mother rhizomes (R4) and finger rhizomes weighing over 35 g significantly improved various growth characteristics. Similarly, employing Chiller treatment (T4) and 2-hour sodium hypochlorite treatment (4%) positively affected germination percentage and other growth attributes. Thus, pre-sowing rhizome treatments can greatly enhance turmeric crop cultivation.

References

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How to cite this article

A.V. Barad, Y.A. Viradiya, P.G. Mandod, P.D. Bhankhar and R.B. Mori (2023). Examining the Interactions between Rhizome Size and Treatments on Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Cultivar GNT 2. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(9): 176-179.