Guava (Psidium guajava L.)

• The most important tropical and subtropical fruits, Fresh guava is a rich source of Vitamin C and also contains appreciable amounts of niacin, calcium, phosphorus, and iron, seeds of guava are potential sources of pectin and oil.
• Guava is a perishable fruit and is susceptible to bruising and mechanical injuries.
• Hisar Safeda Guava is a very sweet and tasty medium-sized guava.
• Weight is approximately 150gm or greater.
• When fully ripe, the color changes from deep green to light yellow.
• Either grafted or clone varieties are available.
• This variety can be stored for a long time and sold in a larger market for a higher price or exported. And, produce higher yields as compared to other varieties.

FLORAL BIOLOGY

• The floral biology of guava cultivars Hisar Safeda was studied at TFPCL farm. Two flowering seasons, viz., spring (April-May) and autumn (August-September) were observed in all the guava cultivars under semi-arid conditions of Haryana.
• The flowering duration varied from 33-41 days in spring to 38-45 days in autumn.
• The floral bud passed through eight arbitrary stages from dormant to the fully opened stage and took 36-42 days to complete all the stages in the rainy and winter season respectively.
• The seventh stage of floral bud was most suitable for emasculation. Cv. Hisar Safeda bore flower solitary or in cymes of 2-3 flowers on the current season growth in the axils of the leaves.
• It is a cross between Allahabad Safeda and seedless sweet white Indonesian guava, Developed at CSS HAU, Hisar.
• Plants have upright growth habits with compact crowns.
• Fruits are round with a smooth surface, creamy white pulp with a few soft seeds with high TSS (12-13Degree Brix).
• Optimum Spacing 3*3Meter and 6*6 Meter

Seedless Cucumber hybrid seeds produce vigorous plants

Features:

• High yields: Seedless Cucumber is a high-yielding cucumber variety that can produce up to 2-3 fruits per plant under ideal conditions.
• Disease resistance: This variety is resistant to several common cucumber diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, and anthracnose.
• Early maturity: Seedless Cucumber matures in about 50-55 days after planting, which is earlier than many other cucumber varieties.
• Excellent fruit quality: The cucumbers are dark green, shiny, and have a crisp, delicious flavor. They are perfect for slicing, salads, and pickling.
• Open plant type: The open plant type allows for good air circulation and light penetration, which can help reduce the risk of disease.
• Suitable for protected cultivation: Seedless Cucumber can be grown in greenhouses, tunnels, or other protected environments.

Benefits:

• Increased profits: The high yields and disease resistance of Seedless Cucumber can help growers to increase their profits.
• Reduced risk of crop failure: The disease resistance of this variety can help to reduce the risk of crop failure.
• Earlier harvest: The early maturity of Seedless Cucumbers means that growers can get their cucumbers to market sooner.
• High-quality product: The excellent fruit quality of this variety will appeal to consumers and help growers get a premium price for their cucumbers.
• Less maintenance: The open plant type of Seedless Cucumber requires less maintenance than other cucumber varieties.
• Year-round production: Seedless Cucumber can be grown year-round in protected environments.

Land Preparation:

• Loosen the Soil: Break up the ground 20-25 cm (about 9.84 in) deep using a spade, rototiller, or tractor. This aeration improves drainage, facilitates root growth, and incorporates organic matter.
• Strike the Right Balance: Cucumbers thrive in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Test your soil’s pH and adjust accordingly. Use lime to raise pH and elemental sulfur to lower it.
• Organic Boost: Enrich the soil with well-rotted manure or compost at a rate of 2-4 kg/m². This increases organic matter content, enhances drainage, and provides essential nutrients.
• Fertilizing for Success: Consider adding a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 NPK at a rate of 1 kg/100 m (about 328.08 ft) ² before planting. This provides additional nutrients for optimal growth.
• Create Mounds: Build raised beds 15-30 cm (about 11.81 in) high using a mixture of soil, compost, and aged manure. Ensure good drainage holes are present.
• Refine the Surface: Rake the soil to a fine tilth, removing any large clods or debris. This creates a smooth and welcoming environment for Seedless Cucumber seeds.
• Furrows or Hills: Depending on your planting method, form planting hills or furrows. Ensure proper drainage by making them slightly elevated.
• Mulch Magic: Cover the prepared bed with a thin layer of mulch (straw, hay, or wood chips). This suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and regulates soil temperature, creating a favorable microclimate for Seedless Cucumbers.

Sowing

When sowing the Seedless Cucumber crop, the process depends on several factors, including your climate, preferred method, and variety. Here’s a breakdown of the two main options:

Direct Sowing:

• Suitable for: Warmer climates with consistent soil temperatures above 68°F (20°C) after the last frost.
• Timing: Sow Seedless Cucumber seeds directly outdoors when the soil has warmed sufficiently, typically late spring or early summer. Ensure no risk of frost remains.
• Method: Make planting holes or furrows about 1 inch deep and spaced according to cucumber seeds (typically 12-18 inches apart). Sow 2-3 seeds per hole and cover lightly with soil. Water gently.

Starting Seeds Indoors:

• Suitable for: Colder climates or early harvests.
• Timing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) before the last frost date.
• Method: Use individual pots or seed trays filled with seed starting mix. Sow 1-2 seeds per pot, 1/2 inch deep. Place in a warm location (70-80°F) with bright light. Water regularly keeps the soil moist but not soggy. Once seedlings have developed true leaves, thin to one strongest plant per pot. Harden off seedlings for a week before transplanting outdoors when soil temperatures are warm, and all risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting:

Preparing the Soil:

Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.

• Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or aged manure to improve drainage and nutrient content.
• Dig planting holes twice the diameter of the seedling pots, spaced according to Seedless Cucumber seedlings (typically 12-18 inches apart).

Transplanting Technique:

• Gently remove seedlings from pots without disturbing the roots.
• Place the seedling in the planting hole at the same depth it was in the pot.
• Fill the hole with soil and gently firm it around the base of the plant.
• Water generously settles the soil and eliminates air pockets.

Aftercare:

• Water regularly, especially during hot weather, to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
• Mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Provide support for vining varieties using poles, trellises, or netting.
• Monitor pests and diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.

Harvesting:

• Pickling Seedless Cucumber is usually harvested earlier than slicing varieties when they are smaller and firmer. Their skin should be bumpy, and the blossom end should be closed.
• Slicing Seedless Cucumber typically requires more time to reach full size and have smoother skin with an open blossom end.
• Use sharp pruners or a knife to cut the cucumber stem, leaving about 1 inch of stem attached to the vine. Avoid pulling or twisting, as this can damage the plant.
• Harvest cucumbers regularly, ideally every 1-2 days, to encourage continuous fruit production.
• Avoid harvesting Seedless Cucumber in the heat of the day, as they may be wilted or sunburned. Early morning or evening are ideal times.

Storage:

• Crisper drawer: This is the best place for most cucumbers. Wrap individual Seedless Cucumbers in a damp paper towel or place them in a breathable container to maintain moisture but prevent sweating. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and accelerate spoiling.
• Zip-top bags: For longer storage (up to 1-2 weeks), place each cucumber in a separate zip-top bag with a metal spoon inside. The spoon absorbs ethylene gas, which hastens ripening. Remove any condensation that forms in the bag.
• Cool pantry: If your pantry stays cool and dark, you can store unwashed cucumbers there for a few days. Place them on a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture.

Tomato