Studies on germination of Turkey berry rootstock and performance of grafted brinjal in Tamil Nadu, India

Eggplant (brinjal) is commonly affected by fungal and bacterial wilt, as well as shoot and fruit borer infestations, leading to significant yield losses. This study aimed to investigate the production of brinjal grafts using wilt-resistant rootstock, specifically Turkey berry (Solanum torvum Sw.), and to evaluate the field performance of the grafted plants. The success of grafting largely depends on the quality and compatibility of the Turkey berry rootstock. To produce Turkey berry rootstock, seeds were soaked in water for 12, 24, and 36 hours before being sown in protrays filled with cocopeat and in raised beds during May and October. The highest germination rate was observed in seeds soaked for 36 hours and sown in protrays, followed closely by those sown in raised beds. Brinjal scions, 30-35 days old, were grafted onto 55-60-day-old Turkey berry rootstocks and placed in a polytunnel under a shade net. These grafted plants were then transplanted into the field alongside non-grafted plants (seedlings) to compare their performance. Results showed that grafted brinjal plants had significantly greater plant height (142.54 cm), more branches per plant (21.17), and a higher number of fruits per plant (135.31) compared to non-grafted plants. The fruit yield was also notably higher in grafted plants, with 9.11 kg per plant and 61.65 t/ha, compared to 4.82 kg per plant and 30.45 t/ha in non-grafted plants. Grafted brinjal plants exhibited an extended growing period, higher net income, and a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 2.36. No instances of wilt were observed in grafted plants, and they also had lower incidences of shoot borer (15.31%) and fruit borer (11.74%) infestations compared to non-grafted plants. This grafting technique has the potential to enhance brinjal yield and productivity, promoting organic farming by reducing the need for pesticides.