Botany – Agriglance

Summary

Onions, scientifically known as Allium cepa, belong to the Alliaceae family and originated in Asia. They are a biennial herb characterized by tubular leaves and bulbs formed from swollen leaf bases attached to the underground stem. Major onion-producing countries include China, India, and Pakistan, with India ranking third in exports, primarily from Maharashtra and Karnataka. Onions thrive in a variety of climates but require specific conditions for optimal growth, including well-drained soil and adequate pollination, primarily by insects. Cultivation highlights include the development of various onion types based on color, such as yellow, red, and white, each serving different culinary purposes. Onions are rich in nutrients, providing energy, carbohydrates, and vitamins. They are significant in agriculture for their high yield

Summary

Litchi, originating from China where it has been cultivated for over 2200 years, has a narrow genetic base in India with only 7-8 commercially popular cultivars out of nearly 40 reported. The climatic variations can significantly affect yield, making the selection of the right variety crucial for specific regions. The litchi inflorescence consists of branched panicles with varying flower types, and the flowering period is influenced by environmental conditions. Desirable cultivar characteristics include large fruit size, good post-harvest quality, uniform ripening, and resistance to pests and diseases. Major litchi varieties include Early Seedless, Muzaffarpur, Rose Scented, Bombai, Calcutta, Late Seedless, Dehradun, Gulabi, and Swarna Roopa, each with unique traits and yield potentials. Breeding efforts focus on improving fruit quality, disease