Spices

Q. Mention the commonly cultivated varieties of Arecanut.
Ans-Of the several species of the genus Areca, A. Catechu is the most commonly cultivated species. Five exotic introductions, viz. `VTL-3’, 11, 12, 13 and 17, and an indigenous one, `Mohitnagar,’ have been found to be superior to the local variety in economic attributes.

Q. Which climate is ideally suited for cultivation of Arecanut?
Ans- Arecanut grows at altitudes up to 1,000 m above the sea-level, at higher altitudes it is not at all productive. The cultivation is mostly confined to 28° North and South of the Equator. It is unable to withstand extremes of temperatures and wide diurnal variations. The range of temperature at which it can flourish is from about 15° C.

Q. How can we control root grubs in cardamom?
Ans- Root grubs can be effectively controlled by Applying Phorate 2-4 g ai/clump.

Q. What is method of packaging of celery seed?
Ans-Celery is packaged in 55-65 lb. crates and wire bound crates, or flat pack containing 2 1/2 to 6 dozen bunches each. Celery hearts are packaged in 24-28 lb. cartons, holding 12 or 18 film bags, or 32-38 lb. wire bound cartons.

Q. What is method of propagation for cinnamon?
Ans- Even though the crop is cross-pollinated, seeds are the best source of propagation. Terminal cuttings are also used as propagation material, and their efficiency increases when dipped for 1 min with IBA or IAA 2,000 ppm; rooting increased by 73.2 and 65.1%, respectively, the maximum root length being 6.3 cm. The mouth of poly-bag needs to be closed with another polybag to prevent moisture loss; rooting takes place 60-90 days after sowing, maximum success was obtained from cultivar SL 5. Air layering done in July gives 87.5% rooting compared to 50% rooting when the same is done in November. Application of Seradix B at the girdle, covered with moist coir dust and wrapped with polythene sheet produces good air-layers in 2-3 months.

Q. Which season is suited for cultivation of cumin?
Ans Cumin seed is a Rabi crop sown in October - November and harvested in February.

Q. What is method of control for Pollu beetle and scale insects in pepper crop?
Ans Pollu beetle can be controlled by spraying Endosulfan 0.05% or Quinalphos 0.05% and scale insects by spraying Monocrotophos 0.1% or Dimethoate 0.1%.

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