Improving Crop Production Through On - Farm Testing in Frontier District Kupwara

During the past few years farmers participatory research trials have rapidly gained popularity with due consideration being given to the knowledge, problems and priorities of the farming families.Peas, potato and turnip are important vegetables cultivated by growers of district Kupwara.A series of on -farm trials were laid on pea, potato, turnip and walnut to assess the impact of technologies and test their performance in district Kupwara.The application of rhizobium @3kg/ha.recorded yield of 10.50q/ha followed by rhizobium @2.0kg/ha which recorded an average yield to the tune of 10.15 q/ha.The increase in yield may be due to direct contribution of bio-fertilizers in improving the fertility of soil because of bacterial activity.The highest yield was recorded in PP-2500 (Shalimar Potato -1) which attained the yield of 210q/ha followed by Gulmarg Special (175q/ha.).The lowest yield was found in the local variety cultivated by the farmers.The maximum yield was recorded under both the varieties of turnip tested i.e., 290 q/ha. in comparison to farmers own variety (180q/ha.).Cool and moist climate is most favourable for growing turnip.The roots develop best flavor, texture and size at a temperature of 10-15 o C. The yield is governed by accumulation of carbohydrates and other metabolites which depend ultimately on the synthesis and supply of photosynthates by leaves and their subsequent translocation vertically downwards to the root.An increase in germination of walnut was found by subjecting nuts to two months of stratification periods.Root and shoot length was also observed to increase with stratification period.