This chapter is devoted specifically to count data for three reasons: (i) they are common in ecological studies (e.g. clutch sizes, numbers of fledglings from a nest, numbers of seeds per pod...); (ii) they are simple to collect and are therefore often the data collected by students (e.g. numbers...

Estimating nematode numbers is required to quantify the presence of certain nematode taxa in plant tissue, field soil or any other substrates. This chapter describes the enumeration of nematodes within plant tissue (e.g. roots, stems, leaves, seeds) and in liquids. It also deals with estimating...

This is the first comprehensive book covering the botany, production, processing, health and industrial uses of the pomegranate (Punica granatum). This book provides information on how to increase yields and improve short- and medium-term grower profitability and sustainability. It covers practices ...

Seed biology and modes of regeneration are important criteria for management of threatened species and are highlighted in this chapter. Information on the ecological requirements at the seed and seedling stages is vital both for conservation and rehabilitation and is seldom articulated in...

This chapter focuses on the seed germination, head formation, flower induction, vernalization and seed production of lettuce. The various factors determining the productivity and physiological disorders of the principal types of lettuce, i.e. crisphead, butterhead and leaf lettuce, are also...

Cucurbit fruits are comparable in nutrient content to other fruits and vegetables and are exceptional for high pro-vitamin A content of some cultivars of squash and melon, and the abundant oil and protein in seeds of Telfairia, Cucurbita and other cucurbits. Cucurbits are a good source of...

This chapter discusses propagation of papaya by seed, cutting, grafting, budding, and in vitro method (embryogenesis). Papaya is mainly propagated by seeds. The best seed for germination of seedlings is obtained from ripe or overripe fruits. Environmental factors, including temperature and light...

This chapter provides information on some biting pests (generalized or polyphagous feeders and specialized or oligophagous feeders) and sucking pests of roots, tubers and sown seeds, including species from Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, Auchenorrhyncha (Cicadidae and Cercopidae), Sternorrhyncha...

This chapter contains examples of insect pests specialized to attack flowers, fruits and seeds, including biting pests (such as Dermaptera, Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Hymenoptera), and sucking pests (such as Thysanoptera, Heteroptera, and Sternorrhyncha). Examples of pests, mainly...

The aim of oil palm trialling is to evaluate field performance among a range of genotypes and to select those of interest. A basic necessity is the provision of good quality planting material, usually produced from deliberate cross-pollinations. Details of methods in pre-trialling activities, i.e....