A NUTRIENT COMPOSITION INFLUENCING THE STEM STABILITY OF MUSTARD CROP (BRASSICA JUNCEA) UNDER LIMITED SPACING

Abstract

ABSTRACT The invention relates to a nutrient composition designed to enhance the stem girth and stability of mustard crops (Brassica juncea) grown in limited spacing. It comprises essential micronutrients, specifically boron and sulfur, which play crucial roles in cell wall formation and lignin synthesis, thereby improving stem strength and reducing the risk of lodging. By addressing the challenges associated with high-density planting, this composition promotes robust stem development and structural integrity, leading to increased crop yields and quality. The innovative application method allows for targeted delivery during critical growth stages, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption. Experimental results indicate a significant improvement in stem diameter and stability in treated plants compared to untreated controls, demonstrating the effectiveness of this formulation in sustainable agricultural practices. Dated this …….Day of October, 2024 Dr. Monica Gulati Registrar Lovely Professional University

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The technical field of the invention pertains to agricultural science, specifically focusing on plant nutrition and biopesticide formulations. It involves the development of innovative compositions aimed at enhancing crop productivity and plant resilience through the application of essential nutrients and beneficial microorganisms. The invention addresses challenges in high-density planting systems, aiming to improve structural stability and resistance to environmental stressors in crops like mustard. Additionally, it explores synergistic interactions between different components to optimize plant health and productivity.
BACKGROUND
[002] Mustard (Brassica juncea) is a vital oilseed crop widely cultivated for its economic importance, but its growth can be significantly affected by high-density planting conditions. When grown in limited spacing, plants face increased competition for resources, leading to slender and weak stems, which can result in lodging-a major concern that impacts yield and quality. Addressing these structural issues is crucial for optimizing mustard production in modern agricultural practices.
[003] Lodging in mustard crops often results from inadequate stem strength to support the weight of the plant and its developing seed pods. Environmental factors like wind and heavy rain exacerbate this problem, leading to crop flattening. This not only makes harvesting more challenging but also increases the risk of disease and fungal infections due to reduced air circulation within the lodged canopy.
[004] Traditional agricultural practices have focused primarily on optimizing nutrient application and crop management. However, limited research has explored the specific roles of micronutrients like boron and sulfur in enhancing stem stability and strength in mustard crops. Boron is crucial for cell wall integrity and lignin formation, while sulfur contributes to amino acid and protein synthesis, both of which are vital for robust plant structure.
[005] AU2018249817B2, have introduced compositions combining osmoprotectants, anti-desiccants, and anti-respirants to improve plant resilience against environmental stressors. While these innovations provide promising approaches to enhancing crop productivity, they do not specifically address the unique structural challenges faced by high-density mustard cultivation, leaving a gap in targeted nutritional strategies.
[006] EP3413715B1, focuses on biopesticide formulations combining bacterial strains for pathogen control. Although this approach enhances plant health by managing diseases, it overlooks the importance of strengthening the physical attributes of plants, such as stem girth and stability. Integrating nutrient compositions that target these structural weaknesses can further complement biocontrol strategies.
[007] Studies indicate that nutrient deficiencies in boron and sulfur can lead to significant reductions in plant growth and increased lodging risk. This underscores the necessity for innovative solutions that deliver these essential nutrients in effective forms and concentrations, especially under high-density planting conditions. Existing methods often lack the precision needed to meet the unique requirements of mustard crops.
[008] The proposed invention aims to fill the research gap by offering a specific nutrient composition designed to enhance stem girth and stability in mustard plants. By focusing on the synergistic effects of boron and sulfur, this approach not only targets structural integrity but also promotes overall plant health, addressing both agronomic and ecological challenges in modern farming.
[009] The application of targeted nutrient compositions can improve crop resilience and reduce reliance on chemical growth regulators. By providing a sustainable alternative that enhances both yield and quality, the invention aligns with contemporary agricultural practices aimed at minimizing environmental impact while maximizing productivity, thereby supporting sustainable farming initiatives.
SUMMARY
[010] The invention presents a novel nutrient composition designed to enhance the stem stability and girth of mustard crops (Brassica juncea) grown in high-density planting conditions. By specifically incorporating essential micronutrients, such as boron and sulfur, the composition aims to strengthen the structural integrity of the plants, reducing the likelihood of lodging-a common issue associated with limited spacing.
[011] This targeted approach addresses the problems of reduced stem girth and increased risk of lodging by promoting robust stem development. Boron aids in the formation of cell walls and lignin deposition, while sulfur contributes to protein synthesis and overall plant resilience. The synergistic effects of these micronutrients are crucial for enhancing mechanical strength in mustard plants under competitive growth environments.
[012] The invention also emphasizes the dual application method of the nutrient composition, which can be delivered either as a foliar spray or soil supplement. This flexibility ensures that the essential nutrients are provided at critical growth stages, maximizing their efficacy during stem elongation and thickening periods, ultimately leading to healthier plants.
[013] Experimental data demonstrate that the application of the nutrient composition significantly increases stem girth and stability, with treated plants showing a marked reduction in lodging rates compared to untreated controls. This not only improves crop standability but also enhances overall yield quality and facilitates easier harvesting, addressing key concerns for farmers.
[014] This innovation offers a sustainable agricultural solution by integrating effective nutrient management strategies that support the structural health of mustard crops. By focusing on essential micronutrients and their synergistic benefits, the invention aligns with modern farming practices aimed at increasing productivity while minimizing environmental impacts.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1provides the Effect of combined application of boron and sulphur on mustard stem diameter under spatial dynamics
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The invention centers on a unique nutrient composition that combines boron and sulfur to enhance the stem stability and girth of mustard crops (Brassica juncea) cultivated in high-density conditions. By addressing the specific nutritional needs of the plants, the formulation aims to counteract the negative effects of limited spacing, which often leads to lodging due to inadequate stem strength.
[021] The composition is designed to be applied during critical growth phases, particularly during the vegetative and pre-flowering stages. This targeted application is crucial as it coincides with periods when stem development is most susceptible to external stresses. By delivering the nutrients at these stages, the invention maximizes their effectiveness in promoting robust plant growth.
[022] In one embodiment it is provided that, Boron, included at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1.5%, plays a pivotal role in strengthening cell wall structures by facilitating pectin cross-linking, which enhances rigidity and thickness. Sulfur, present at levels between 0.5% and 2.5%, contributes to lignin synthesis, further fortifying the plant's stems and improving overall structural integrity.
[023] The methodology for application involves a dual approach: foliar spraying and soil incorporation. The foliar spray allows for rapid absorption of nutrients through the leaves, while soil incorporation ensures a gradual release of boron and sulfur to the root system. This combination ensures that the plants receive the nutrients precisely when they need them most.
[024] In one embodiment it is provided, that Experimental trials were conducted using a split-plot design across three replications, focusing on two distinct mustard crop genotypes. Treatments included various concentrations of the nutrient composition, with control plots receiving standard recommended doses of fertilizers. The design facilitated a comparative analysis of the effects on stem girth and stability.
[025] Results from the experiments indicated significant improvements in both stem diameter and girth among treated plots compared to controls. For instance, treated plants showed an average increase of 20-30% in stem girth, directly correlating to enhanced mechanical strength and reduced lodging incidents.
[026] In terms of lodging rates, the application of the nutrient composition resulted in a reduction of lodging incidence by at least 50% when compared to untreated crops. This finding is critical as it not only improves crop quality but also eases the harvesting process, minimizing losses related to mechanical damage and disease susceptibility.
[027] Additional observations during the trials revealed that enhanced stem stability contributed to improved air circulation within the crop canopy. This increased airflow reduces humidity levels around the plants, which helps mitigate the risk of fungal infections and other disease-related issues, further benefiting overall crop health.
[028] The invention also supports sustainable agricultural practices by reducing the reliance on chemical growth regulators and synthetic fertilizers. By focusing on essential micronutrients, the composition promotes natural growth processes, encouraging healthier soil microbiomes and contributing to long-term soil fertility.
[029] In one embodiment it is provided, that the formulation's versatility allows it to be adapted for various crops and environmental conditions, making it a promising solution for farmers facing challenges in high-density planting systems. Its customizable application strategies enable farmers to optimize nutrient delivery according to specific crop needs and local conditions.
[030] Discussions surrounding the invention highlight its potential to transform agricultural practices, particularly in regions where land utilization is maximized through dense planting. By addressing structural weaknesses in crops like mustard, the innovation provides a pathway to improving yield and quality while maintaining ecological balance.
[031] The advantages of this invention extend beyond mere increases in stem girth and reduced lodging. The nutrient composition enhances crop resilience, supports sustainable farming initiatives, and offers a practical solution to some of the pressing challenges faced by modern agriculture, ultimately contributing to improved food security and farmer livelihoods.
[032] Referring to Figure 1, image depicts a robust mustard plant showcasing significant stem development, characterized by a thick, sturdy stem that demonstrates the effects of the innovative nutrient composition. The stem's girth is notably larger than that of untreated plants, indicating enhanced mechanical strength and stability. Surrounding the main stem, the foliage appears lush and healthy, reflecting the positive impact of the targeted nutrient application on overall plant vitality. In the background, the planting layout suggests a high-density arrangement, emphasizing the challenges of limited spacing that this invention aims to address. The visual contrast between the treated and untreated plants highlights the effectiveness of the boron and sulfur formulation in promoting resilience against lodging, showcasing the practical benefits for farmers aiming to optimize crop yield and quality in competitive growing conditions.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024
Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University
, Claims:We claim:
1. A method for enhancing the stem girth and stability of mustard crops (Brassica juncea) grown under limited spacing, comprising:
A. applying a nutrient composition containing boron at a concentration of 0.1% to 1.5% and sulfur at a concentration of 0.5% to 2.5% as a foliar spray during the vegetative or pre-flowering stage of the crop's growth cycle, wherein the application improves cell wall structure and lignin deposition, leading to increased stem strength and reduced lodging incidence by at least 50% compared to untreated crops.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the nutrient composition is applied as a foliar spray using a dilution ratio of 1:10 with water for optimal absorption, ensuring that the active ingredients penetrate the leaf surface effectively and enhance nutrient uptake.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of incorporating the nutrient composition into the soil as a supplement to ensure gradual nutrient release to the roots, which allows for sustained nutrient availability throughout the critical growth phases.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the application of the nutrient composition is repeated every two weeks during the critical growth phases to maximize effectiveness, ensuring continuous support for stem development and structural integrity.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the boron is provided in the form of boric acid to enhance its bioavailability to the plant, facilitating more efficient absorption and utilization of the nutrient in strengthening stem structures.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising monitoring environmental conditions such as humidity and temperature to determine the optimal timing for nutrient application, thus optimizing the conditions for nutrient uptake and effectiveness.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatment is applied to mustard crops cultivated in high-density planting systems with a spacing of 20 cm or less between plants, specifically targeting the challenges associated with limited spacing and competition for resources.
8. The method of claim 1, further comprising measuring stem girth before and after treatment to evaluate the effectiveness of the nutrient composition in enhancing stem stability, providing quantitative data to assess improvements and guide future applications.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024

Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University

Documents