Journal Description
Agronomy
Agronomy
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on agronomy and agroecology published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society of Plant Physiology (SEFV) is affiliated with Agronomy and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Agronomy) / CiteScore - Q1 (Agronomy and Crop Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.4 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Agronomy include: Seeds, Agrochemicals, Grasses and Crops.
Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Enhanced Estimation of Rice Leaf Nitrogen Content via the Integration of Hybrid Preferred Features and Deep Learning Methodologies
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061248 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Efficiently obtaining leaf nitrogen content (LNC) in rice to monitor the nutritional health status is crucial in achieving precision fertilization on demand. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based hyperspectral technology is an important tool for determining LNC. However, the intricate coupling between spectral information and
[...] Read more.
Efficiently obtaining leaf nitrogen content (LNC) in rice to monitor the nutritional health status is crucial in achieving precision fertilization on demand. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based hyperspectral technology is an important tool for determining LNC. However, the intricate coupling between spectral information and nitrogen remains elusive. To address this, this study proposed an estimation method for LNC that integrates hybrid preferred features with deep learning modeling algorithms based on UAV hyperspectral imagery. The proposed approach leverages XGBoost, Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), and a synergistic combination of both to identify the characteristic variables for LNC estimation. We then construct estimation models of LNC using statistical regression methods (partial least-squares regression (PLSR)) and machine learning algorithms (random forest (RF); deep neural networks (DNN)). The optimal model is utilized to map the spatial distribution of LNC at the field scale. The study was conducted at the National Agricultural Science and Technology Park, Guangzhou, located in Baiyun District of Guangdong, China. The results reveal that the combined PCC-XGBoost algorithm significantly enhances the accuracy of rice nitrogen inversion compared to the standalone screening approach. Notably, the model built with the DNN algorithm exhibits the highest predictive performance and demonstrates great potential in mapping the spatial distribution of LNC. This indicates the potential role of the proposed model in precision fertilization and the enhancement of nitrogen utilization efficiency in rice cultivation. The outcomes of this study offer a valuable reference for enhancing agricultural practices and sustainable crop management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Unmanned Systems: Empowering Agriculture with Automation)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Waterlogging Stress on Root Growth and Soil Nutrient Loss of Winter Wheat at Seedling Stage
by
Hao Luo, Shanshan Liu, Yifan Song, Tianling Qin, Shangbin Xiao, Wei Li, Lulu Xu and Xiaoxiang Zhou
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061247 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
With global climate change, flooding events are becoming more frequent. However, the mechanism of how waterlogging stress affects crop roots needs to be studied in depth. Waterlogging stress can also lead to soil nitrogen and phosphorus loss, resulting in agricultural surface pollution. The
[...] Read more.
With global climate change, flooding events are becoming more frequent. However, the mechanism of how waterlogging stress affects crop roots needs to be studied in depth. Waterlogging stress can also lead to soil nitrogen and phosphorus loss, resulting in agricultural surface pollution. The aim of this study is to clarify the relationship between soil nitrogen and phosphorus distribution, root growth characteristics, and nitrogen and phosphorus loss in runoff water under waterlogging stress during the winter wheat seedling stage. In this paper, Zhengmai 136 was selected as the experimental material, and two water management methods (waterlogging treatment and non-waterlogging control treatment) were set up. Field experiments were conducted at the Wudaogou Hydrological Experimental Station in 2022 to assess the nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in runoff water under waterlogging stress. The study also aimed to analyze the nitrogen and phosphorus content and the root distribution characteristics in different soil layers under waterlogging stress. The results showed as the following: 1. Waterlogging stress increased the characteristic parameters of winter wheat roots in both horizontal and vertical directions. Compared with the control treatment, the root length increased by 1.2–29.9% in the waterlogging treatment, while the root surface area and volume increased by an average of 3.1% and 41.9%, respectively. 2. Nitrogen and phosphorus contents in waterlogged soils were enriched in the 0–20 cm soil layer, but both tended to decrease in the 20–60 cm soil layer. Additionally, there was an inverse relationship between the distribution of soil nutrients and the distribution of wheat roots. 3. During the seedling stage of winter wheat, nitrogen loss was the main factor in the runoff water. In addition, nitrate nitrogen concentration averaged 55.2% of the total nitrogen concentration, while soluble phosphorus concentration averaged 79.1% of the total phosphorus concentration. 4. The results of redundancy analysis demonstrated that available phosphorus in the soil was the key environmental factor affecting the water quality of runoff water. Total phosphorus and dissolved phosphorus in the water were identified as the dominant factors influencing root growth.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safe and Efficient Utilization of Water and Fertilizer in Crops)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Application of a Cactus Pear Mucilage-Based Edible Coating Enriched with Glycerol and L-Glutamine on Minimally Processed White-Flesh Loquats
by
Giuseppe Greco, Francesco Gargano, Miriam La Motta, Ignazio Maria Gugino and Giorgia Liguori
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1246; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061246 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.), a non-climacteric fruit, is susceptible to physical and mechanical damage, as well as decay, especially after minimal processing, resulting in a short postharvest lifespan The objective of our study was to evaluate the impact of a cactus pear (OFI)
[...] Read more.
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.), a non-climacteric fruit, is susceptible to physical and mechanical damage, as well as decay, especially after minimal processing, resulting in a short postharvest lifespan The objective of our study was to evaluate the impact of a cactus pear (OFI) mucilage-based edible coating enriched with glycerol and l-glutamine on the quality and nutraceutical value of minimally processed white-flesh Martorana loquat fruits during cold storage. After washing and processing the cladodes, mucilage was extracted, and two different coatings (EC1: 60% OFI mucilage, 40% glycerol; EC2: 67% OFI mucilage, 30% glycerol, 3% glutamine) were formulated and compared with an untreated sample (CTR). Our analyses covered various parameters, including color, total soluble solid content, titratable acidity, antioxidant activity, and total phenols. Additionally, sensory analysis was conducted and visual scores were obtained. The results suggest that the application of a cactus pear mucilage-based edible coating, supplemented with glycerol and L-glutamine, effectively preserves the quality attributes of minimally processed loquat fruits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
15N Isotope Labeled Tracking of the Nitrogen Utilization of Apple under Water and Nitrogen Coupling Application in Arid and Semiarid Areas
by
Guanquecailang Lan, Yongqing Feng, Weifeng Ma, Tong Feng, Yang Lu, Juan Mao and Baihong Chen
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061245 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
In order to solve the problem of water waste and environmental pollution in arid and semiarid areas, this study aimed to investigate the effects of different water and nitrogen treatments on the growth of apple leaves, photosynthetic physiology, nutrient uptake and nitrogen use
[...] Read more.
In order to solve the problem of water waste and environmental pollution in arid and semiarid areas, this study aimed to investigate the effects of different water and nitrogen treatments on the growth of apple leaves, photosynthetic physiology, nutrient uptake and nitrogen use efficiency. A two-factor experimental design was used in this experiment. The first factor was three levels of irrigation (40–50%, 50–65%, 65–80% RWC, relative water content) and the second factor was four levels of nitrogen application (0, 150, 300, 600 kg/ha), which were a completely randomized combination. The results showed that irrigation and nitrogen application had significant effects on the growth, photosynthetic rate, chlorophyl and mineral element contents of apple tree leaves, but excessive input of water and nitrogen would restrain the growth of apple tree leaves. The Ndff% of different organs for apple trees were evaluated by 15N isotope tracer technology, and the highest Ndff% value was found in leaves, ranging from 1.01–1.23‰. Next were roots with 0.29–0.43‰, and the lowest Ndff% was found in fruits with 0.03–0.08‰. The calculation results of 15N utilization in apple trees showed that nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) under the medium-water low nitrogen (W1N1) treatment had the highest value with 43.33%. In conclusion, considering the growth physiology and nitrogen utilization of apple trees, it is recommended that a water and fertilizer coupling combination scheme for apple trees in arid and semi-arid areas of the Loess Plateau should be that of a medium-water and medium-nitrogen mode (W1N2, 50–65% RWC, 300 kg/ha).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
Open AccessArticle
Classification of Rice Seeds Grown in Different Geographical Environments: An Approach Based on Improved Residual Networks
by
Helong Yu, Zhenyang Chen, Shaozhong Song, Mojun Chen and Chenglin Yang
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061244 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Rice is one of the most important crops for food supply, and there are multiple differences in the quality of rice in different geographic regions, which have a significant impact on subsequent yields and economic benefits. The traditional rice identification methods are time-consuming,
[...] Read more.
Rice is one of the most important crops for food supply, and there are multiple differences in the quality of rice in different geographic regions, which have a significant impact on subsequent yields and economic benefits. The traditional rice identification methods are time-consuming, inefficient, and delicate. This study proposes a deep learning-based method for fast and non-destructive classification of rice grown in different geographic environments. The experiment collected rice with the name of Ji-Japonica 830 from 10 different regions, and a total of 10,600 rice grains were obtained, and the fronts and backsides of the seeds were photographed with a camera in batches, and a total of 30,000 images were obtained by preprocessing the data. The proposed improved residual network architecture, High-precision Residual Network (HResNet), was used to compare the performance of the models. The results showed that HResNet obtained the highest classification accuracy result of 95.13%, which is an improvement of 7.56% accuracy with respect to the original model, and validation showed that HResNet achieves a 98.7% accuracy in the identification of rice grown in different soil classes. The experimental results show that the proposed network model can effectively recognize and classify rice grown in different soil categories. It can provide a reference for the identification of other crops and can be applied for consumer and food industry use.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
Open AccessArticle
Modeling Gross Primary Production (GPP) of a Mediterranean Grassland in Central Spain Using Sentinel-2 NDVI and Meteorological Field Information
by
Víctor Cicuéndez, Rosa Inclán, Enrique P. Sánchez-Cañete, Carlos Román-Cascón, César Sáenz and Carlos Yagüe
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1243; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061243 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mediterranean grasslands provide different ecosystems and social and economic services to the Mediterranean basin. Specifically, in Spain, pastures occupy more than 55% of the Spanish surface. Farmers and policymakers need to estimate the Gross Primary Production (GPP) to make sustainable management of these
[...] Read more.
Mediterranean grasslands provide different ecosystems and social and economic services to the Mediterranean basin. Specifically, in Spain, pastures occupy more than 55% of the Spanish surface. Farmers and policymakers need to estimate the Gross Primary Production (GPP) to make sustainable management of these ecosystems and to study the role of grasslands acting as sinks or sources of Carbon in the context of climate change. High-frequency satellites, such as Sentinel-2, have opened the door to study GPP with a higher spatial and lower revisit time (10 m and 5 days). Therefore, the overall objective of this research is to estimate an ecosystem light use efficiency (eLUE) GPP model for a Mediterranean grassland in central Spain using Sentinel-2 NDVI Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), complemented with meteorological information at the field scale for a relatively long period (from January 2018 to July 2020). The GPP models studied in this research were the MODIS GPP product, as well as the four eLUE models built with MODIS or Sentinel-2 NDVI and complemented by the inclusion of minimum temperature (Tmin) and soil water content (SWC). The models were validated through the GPP obtained from an eddy-covariance flux tower located in the study site (GPP_T). Results showed that the MODIS GPP product underestimated the GPP_T of the grassland ecosystem. Besides this, the approach of the eLUE concept was valid for estimating GPP in this Mediterranean grassland ecosystem. In addition, the models showed an improvement using Sentinel-2 NDVI compared to MODIS GPP product and compared to the models that used MODIS NDVI due to its higher spatial and temporal resolution. The inclusion of Tmin and SWC was also a determinant in improving GPP models during winter and summer periods. This work also illustrates how the main wind directions of the study area must be considered to appropriately estimate the footprint of the eddy covariance flux tower. In conclusion, this study is the first step to efficiently estimating the GPP of Mediterranean grasslands using the Sentinel-2 NDVI with complementary meteorological field information to make the management of these ecosystems sustainable.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Grassland Productivity and Sustainability — Volume II)
Open AccessArticle
CPSM: A Dynamic Simulation Model for Cucumber Productivity in Solar Greenhouse Based on the Principle of Effective Accumulated Temperature
by
Chen Cheng, Chaoyang Dong, Xilin Guan, Xianguan Chen, Lu Wu, Yangchun Zhu, Long Zhang, Fenghua Ding, Liping Feng and Zhenfa Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061242 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The Cucumber Productivity Simulation Model (CPSM) was developed to precisely predict the dynamic process of cucumber productivity in a solar greenhouse. This research conducted a variety of sowing experiments and collected data on cucumber productivity and meteorological conditions from 2013 to 2015 and
[...] Read more.
The Cucumber Productivity Simulation Model (CPSM) was developed to precisely predict the dynamic process of cucumber productivity in a solar greenhouse. This research conducted a variety of sowing experiments and collected data on cucumber productivity and meteorological conditions from 2013 to 2015 and 2018 to 2020. Employing the principles of least squares, the relationship between cucumber productivity indicators and effective accumulated temperature (EAT) was fitted, determining key crop parameters and constructing the CPSM. Validation of the model was conducted using independent experimental data, evaluating its simulation accuracy. The results indicate that (1) CPSM can dynamically and meticulously simulate the formation process of different productivity indicators in cucumber. Normalized root mean square errors (NRMSE) ranged from 0.44% to 19.64%, and mean relative errors (MRE) ranged from 0.31% to 17.23% across different productivity indicator models. The models for organ water content, maximum root length, specific leaf area, and organ fresh weight distribution index demonstrated high simulation accuracy, while others showed relatively high accuracy. (2) Simulation accuracy varied with indicators and varieties. 19 indicators (34.55%) exhibited high simulation accuracy and 30 indicators (54.55%) showed relatively high accuracy. The JY35 variety (10.44 ± 8.49%) outperformed the JS206 variety (13.44 ± 8.50%) in terms of simulation accuracy. The JY35 variety had 39 superior productivity indicators (70.91%) while the JS206 variety had sixteen (29.09%). CPSM utilizes easily accessible temperature data as its input, allowing for precise and detailed simulation of productivity indicators for cucumber production in solar greenhouses. This research lays a theoretical foundation and provides technical support for guiding intelligent production management, efficient utilization of agricultural resources, and climate change productivity assessment in solar greenhouse cucumber production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
Open AccessArticle
Potential Biofertilizers for Alkaline Soil: Bacteria Isolated from the Rhizosphere of Potatoes
by
Zhongchen Yu, Caiding Chen, Zhou Li, Yunjie Song, Chunhong Yan, Xinyu Jiang, Heng Jia, Yi Shang and Mengqing Tian
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1241; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061241 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Root-associated microorganisms, which can be recruited specially by plants to cope with environmental stress under extreme conditions, are one of the major mediators of nutrient exchange between plants and the environment. To obtain more crop-beneficial microbes, rhizosphere bacteria of Désirée potatoes cultivated in
[...] Read more.
Root-associated microorganisms, which can be recruited specially by plants to cope with environmental stress under extreme conditions, are one of the major mediators of nutrient exchange between plants and the environment. To obtain more crop-beneficial microbes, rhizosphere bacteria of Désirée potatoes cultivated in poor and alkaline soil have been studied. The screening of 83 strains with incomplete identical 16S rDNA sequences showed that 47 strains produced indole acetic acid (IAA), with contents ranging from 0.2 to 42 mg/L, and seven strains were phosphorus-solubilizing, among which six strains significantly increased the growth rate of potato plants. Thirty-seven strains produced siderophore and four strains were zinc-solubilizing, among which three strains significantly alleviated the chlorosis of potato plants. In all of the isolates, the species Variovorax soli (ST98) and Cellulomonas biazotea (ST118) were first found to possess an IAA-secreting ability; the species Leifsonia aquatica (ST172) and Leifsonia naganoensis (ST177) and the genus Sutcliffiella (ST11) were first discovered to be capable of phosphorus solubilization; the species Chryseobacterium daecheongense (ST32) was the first reported to be capable of zinc solubilization; and the species V. soli (ST98), C. biazotea (ST118) and L. naganoensis (ST177) were first found to be capable of plant growth promotion. The discovery of multiple functional bacteria enriched the resources of plant growth-promoting bacteria and provided a foundation for biofertilizer production to improve soil conditions and crop production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Soil-Plant-Microbial Interactions to New-Concept Biopesticides and Biofertilizers)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Yield Response of Grafted and Self-Rooted Tomato Plants Grown Hydroponically under Varying Levels of Water Salinity
by
Elkamil Tola, Khalid A. Al-Gaadi, Rangaswamy Madugundu, Ahmed M. Zeyada, Mohamed K. Edrris, Haroon F. Edrees and Omer Mahjoop
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061240 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
To overcome the scarcity of fresh water, researchers have turned to investigating different techniques that enable using saline water to irrigate crops, aiming to increase the efficiency of using available water resources. A glasshouse experiment was conducted to investigate the yield responses of
[...] Read more.
To overcome the scarcity of fresh water, researchers have turned to investigating different techniques that enable using saline water to irrigate crops, aiming to increase the efficiency of using available water resources. A glasshouse experiment was conducted to investigate the yield responses of grafted and non-grafted (self-rooted) tomato plants grown hydroponically under three levels of water salinity (2.5, 6.0, and 9.5 dS m−1). Three tomato varieties (Ghandowra-F1, Forester-F1, and Feisty-Red) were grafted onto five rootstocks (Maxifort, Unifort, Dynafort, Vivifort, and Beaufort). The implemented treatments were studied in terms of tomato fruit yield and quality parameters. Although increasing the concentration of salts in the nutrient solution led to a decrease in fruit yield, the moderate salinity level (S-2: 6.0 dS m−1) showed its superiority over both low salinity (S-1: 2.5 dS m−1) and high salinity (S-3: 9.5 dS m−1) in terms of tomato yield parameters. The studied rootstocks did not significantly improve the tomato fruit yield, but the interaction between the grafting combinations and salinity was significant for both production and quality. More specifically, tomato plants grafted onto the rootstocks “Vivifort and Beaufort” rendered the highest yield at a low salinity level (S-1: 2.5 dS m−1) and a moderate salinity level (S-2: 6.0 dS m−1), respectively, while at high salinity (S-3: 9.5 dS m−1), grafting did not improve tomato productivity, irrespective of the rootstock. These results confirm that tomatoes can be successfully grown under hydroponic systems using salinity levels of up to 6.0 dS m−1 without sacrificing fruit yield and quality. Among the studied tomato varieties, Feisty-Red was found to be appropriate for hydroponic production. The results also demonstrated that Vivifort and Beaufort rootstocks are suitable for grafting hydroponic tomatoes under low and moderate salinity levels, respectively.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop and Vegetable Physiology under Environmental Stresses)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effects of GmERF5-Responsive Effector on Soybean Symbiotic Nodulation
by
Candong Li, Yuxin Jin, Weinan Tang, Xuemei Li, Chunyan Liu, Jinhui Wang, Xiaoxia Wu, Qingshan Chen, Feishi Luan and Dawei Xin
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061239 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The type III secretion system (T3SS) of Rhizobium plays a crucial role during the establishment of the soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)-Rhizobium symbiosis system. Additionally, host-specific nodulation may also depend on the Nops (nodulation outer proteins) secreted by the T3SS of
[...] Read more.
The type III secretion system (T3SS) of Rhizobium plays a crucial role during the establishment of the soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)-Rhizobium symbiosis system. Additionally, host-specific nodulation may also depend on the Nops (nodulation outer proteins) secreted by the T3SS of Rhizobium. However, there is limited understanding of the response of soybean genes to Nops. In this study, a NopC mutant, HH103ΩNopC, was constructed from Sinorhizobium fredii HH103 and then utilized to assess the impact of the NopC on nodulation. An RNA-seq analysis revealed that the GmERF5 (Glycine max Ethylene Responsive Factor 5) gene was induced by NopC, which was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, an overexpression of the GmERF5 hair-root system was constructed to investigate the effect of GmERF5 on nodulation and its interaction with NopC. Differences in nodule number and nodule dry weight in the overexpression of the GmERF5 hair-root system supported the conclusion that GmERF5 can regulate soybean nodule phenotype via NopC. These results elucidate the genetic mechanisms that regulate nodule phenotype in soybean.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advancements in Nodulation Nitrogen Fixation and Molecular Regulation Mechanism in Soybean)
Open AccessArticle
Precision Turfgrass Irrigation: Capturing Spatial Soil Moisture Patterns with ECa and Drone Data
by
Ruth Kerry, Ben Ingram, Kirsten Sanders, Abigail Henrie, Keegan Hammond, Dave Hawks, Neil Hansen, Ryan Jensen and Bryan Hopkins
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061238 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Turfgrass irrigation consumes a large amount of the scarce freshwater in arid/semi-arid regions. Approximately 50% of this irrigation water is wasted. It has been suggested that determining patterns of spatial variability in soil moisture to modify applications with valve-in-head sprinkler technology can greatly
[...] Read more.
Turfgrass irrigation consumes a large amount of the scarce freshwater in arid/semi-arid regions. Approximately 50% of this irrigation water is wasted. It has been suggested that determining patterns of spatial variability in soil moisture to modify applications with valve-in-head sprinkler technology can greatly reduce waste. Variable rate irrigation (VRI) studies in traditional agricultural settings have shown that VRI zones do not stay static temporally and need to be frequently redetermined. Electrical conductivity (ECa) data from Geonics EM38 surveys and data from Red, Green, Blue (RGB) and Thermal Infra-Red (Th.IR) drone surveys are less time-consuming and therefore expensive to collect than a dense field survey of soil moisture and grass health to produce accurate geostatistical maps. Drone flights and ECa surveys are compared here for their ability to accurately estimate spatial patterns of soil volumetric water content (VWC) using simple linear regression and z-score transformations for prediction—non-geostatistical approaches that require less data. Overall, ECa readings collected in the horizontal mode were the most consistent at capturing spatial patterns in soil moisture. Predictions from regression produced lower root mean squared errors (RMSEs) for the larger datasets. However, z-score transformation produced lower RMSEs when the sample number was very small and preserved the scale of values better than the regression approach. The results suggested that predictions from ECa and drone data were useful for capturing key features in soil moisture patterns for 2–3 weeks, suggesting that a periodic reassessment of zones is needed. Using ECa and drone data in an urban environment is more labor-intensive than in an agricultural field, so it is likely that automating periodic re-surveying of ECa data for zone definition would only be cost-effective for golf courses or high-income sports fields. Elsewhere, using static zones with variable rates applied to each zone may be more efficient.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment and Mapping of Soil Water Balance)
Open AccessArticle
Functional Analysis of the Apple SPS Gene Family in Response to Abiotic Stresses
by
Shangwen Yang, Yongqing Feng, Xuejing Cao, Huanhuan Hu, Jinghua Yang, Wenfang Li, Yingjun Hou and Zonghuan Ma
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061237 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) is an important link in the process of sugar metabolism. In addition, it is also involved in abiotic stresses in plants. In order to study the SPS gene family and its role in abiotic stress, we identified the MdSPS
[...] Read more.
Sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS) is an important link in the process of sugar metabolism. In addition, it is also involved in abiotic stresses in plants. In order to study the SPS gene family and its role in abiotic stress, we identified the MdSPS gene family members by bioinformatics methods such as correlation analysis, the HMM method, and the Clustering method, and analyzed the transient expression of MdSPS genes by quantitative real-time fluorescence analysis (qRT-PCR). The MdSPS gene family consists of a total of 19 members divided into three subfamilies distributed on 14 chromosomes in apples. The MdSPS gene family has 12 collinearity gene pairs, indicating significant duplication. Most members of this family contain a large number of plant hormone response elements, light-inducible elements, and abiotic stress response elements 2kb upstream of the promoter. Codon bias analysis shows that there are 28 high-frequency codons and no codons with strong preference in this family. Gene chip results showed that only MdSPS2, MdSPS3, MdSPS11, and MdSPS17 were up-regulated in roots, and they were all members of subfamily C. The qRT-PCR analysis showed that all members of this family responded significantly to drought stress, salt stress, and low temperature stress. Interestingly, the relative expression of MdSPS12 was significantly down-regulated under salt stress and low temperature stress. In addition, the expression of MdSPS3, MdSPS8, MdSPS11, and MdSPS17 was more than 20 fold higher than that of the control under drought stress, salt stress, and low temperature stress. These four genes could be candidates for molecular breeding in the MdSPS family.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessEditorial
Climate Change and Agriculture—Sustainable Plant Production
by
Zhong-Xiu Sun, Cheng-Cheng Zhang, Jin-Long Dong and Ying-Ying Jiang
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061236 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Climate change has a great impact on plant growth and agricultural production, especially on the growing season, growth rate, and growth distribution [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Agriculture—Sustainable Plant Production)
Open AccessArticle
Influence of High-Voltage Corona Discharge on Drying Kinetics and Physicochemical Properties of Alfalfa at Various Air-Gap Spacings
by
Mengheng Guo, Yingying Qian, Jiamin Yuan and Zhiqing Song
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061235 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The high nutritional value of alfalfa hay makes it a widely utilized component in animal feed. However, the current prevalent drying methods for forage have a significantly detrimental impact on the quality of alfalfa during the drying process. This study investigates the effects
[...] Read more.
The high nutritional value of alfalfa hay makes it a widely utilized component in animal feed. However, the current prevalent drying methods for forage have a significantly detrimental impact on the quality of alfalfa during the drying process. This study investigates the effects of high-voltage corona discharge (HVCD) treatment on post-cut alfalfa. Gradient experiments are conducted by adjusting the air-gap spacing at a voltage of 25 kV. The results demonstrate that as the distance decreases, there is an observed increase in the drying rate, rehydration rate, and color intensity of the HVCD-treated material. HVCD treatment significantly enhances crude protein content, which increases with decreasing air-gap spacing. Meanwhile, it negatively affects lignin, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) levels. The relative forage quality (RFQ) of alfalfa reaches its peak at an air-gap spacing of 7 cm. The application of HVCD disrupts the fiber structure and induces significant electroporation effects in cells. Minimal changes in functional groups preserve nutrient integrity. Furthermore, HVCD exhibits lower energy consumption compared to hot air dryers. The HVCD treatment is a highly efficient and effective method, with a gradual improvement in alfalfa hay quality as the air-gap distance decreases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Variations and Trends in Rice Quality across Different Types of Approved Varieties in China, 1978–2022
by
Yuqing Lu, Ying Tang, Jiaen Zhang, Si Liu, Xiaoyue Liang, Meijuan Li and Ronghua Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061234 (registering DOI) - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Rice is a staple food for nearly two-thirds of China’s population. As socio-economic development continues, there is a growing demand for high-quality rice. This study collected grain quality traits for 17,785 rice varieties approved throughout China, and categorized them into the following five
[...] Read more.
Rice is a staple food for nearly two-thirds of China’s population. As socio-economic development continues, there is a growing demand for high-quality rice. This study collected grain quality traits for 17,785 rice varieties approved throughout China, and categorized them into the following five types: indica inbred (II), indica hybrid (IH), japonica inbred (JI), japonica hybrid (JH), and indica-japonica hybrid (IJ). Comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess the differences and trends in rice quality across these varieties. We found that JI and JH excel in processing and cooking qualities, featuring higher brown rice and head milled rice rates, coupling with longer gel consistency. Inbred varieties display lower chalky rice rates than hybrids. Over several decades, head milled rice rates have notably increased across all types except for IJ. Transparency grade has decreased in nearly all types except for IJ, with similar declines observed in chalky rice rates and chalkiness degree, suggesting an overall progress in appearance quality. In terms of cooking and taste attributes, amylose content has decreased in most varieties except for IJ, and gel consistency has improved in indica varieties. Generally, the rice quality of varieties approved in China has shown a clear trend of improvement over the past 40 years. This study provides significant data support and theoretical backing for ongoing rice breeding efforts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Foliar Application of Wood Distillate Protects Basil Plants against Ozone Damage by Preserving Membrane Integrity and Triggering Antioxidant Mechanisms
by
Gemma Bianchi, Riccardo Fedeli, Lorenzo Mariotti, Claudia Pisuttu, Cristina Nali, Elisa Pellegrini and Stefano Loppi
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061233 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ozone (O3) pollution is a critical issue for human health, crop yield, vegetation growth biodiversity, and food safety. Several protection strategies from O3-induced injuries have been proposed for crops. Here, we investigated if the foliar application of wood distillate
[...] Read more.
Ozone (O3) pollution is a critical issue for human health, crop yield, vegetation growth biodiversity, and food safety. Several protection strategies from O3-induced injuries have been proposed for crops. Here, we investigated if the foliar application of wood distillate (WD), a plant-based biostimulant applied once a week (0.2%, v/v) for four consecutive weeks, could have a protective effect against the damage caused by chronic O3 concentrations (80 ppb O3, 5 h day−1 for 28 days) in basil plants (chosen as model horticultural plant). The results revealed that plants exposed to O3 showed severe chlorotic spots localized in the interveinal adaxial surface, chlorophyll loss (−25% compared to controls maintained in filtered air), and membrane impairment as indicated by the significant increase in malondialdehyde content (+62%). Conversely, plants exposed to O3 and treated with WD exhibited a reduction in visible injuries, preservation of membrane integrity, and production of antioxidant compounds such as abscisic and salicylic acids (+21 and +62%, respectively), suggesting a protective effect of WD. This research highlights new results regarding the efficacy of WD in mitigating the negative effects of O3-induced oxidative pressure in basil plants.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
Open AccessArticle
Regulation of Different Lights on Energy Acquisitions, Microtuber Formation, and Growth of In Vitro-Grown Solanum tuberosum L.
by
Jiahuan Long, Fan Yu, Yinyue Wu, Zhigang Xu and Xiaoying Liu
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061232 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Limited research has been conducted on the regulation of light quality on heterotrophy in in vitro-grown potato plantlets. Here, we investigated the effect of light quality on photosynthetic and heterotrophic abilities as well as microtuber formation and growth of potato plantlets (Solanum
[...] Read more.
Limited research has been conducted on the regulation of light quality on heterotrophy in in vitro-grown potato plantlets. Here, we investigated the effect of light quality on photosynthetic and heterotrophic abilities as well as microtuber formation and growth of potato plantlets (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Shepody). Potato plantlets pre-cultivated under white light for 30 days were then transferred to grow under blue (B), green (G), red (R), yellow (Y), and white (W) lights, and parameters including dry weight, photosynthetic pigment, medium solute consumption, δ13C value, root activity, and sucrose transport (SUT) gene expression of these plantlets were measured. The results showed that B, G, and W were conducive to the rapid induction of microtubers, while R, and especially Y, delayed microtuber formation. Higher photosynthetic ability was observed in the W treatment, whereas the opposite effect was seen in the monochromatic light treatments. Microtuber growth was primarily dependent on heterotrophy, and B was conducive to microtuber growth. The delay in microtuber formation was related to the high expression of StSUT4 in the root, and better microtuber growth was associated with higher root activity, more medium solute consumption, and a higher expression level of StSUT1 in the roots.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivation Physiology, Molecular Biology and Molecular Breeding of Solanaceae)
Open AccessArticle
Enrichment of Grain Anthocyanin Content through Marker-Assisted Breeding for Ant1, Ant2 or HvMyc2 Genes in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)
by
Tatjana V. Kukoeva, Camilla A. Molobekova, Igor V. Totsky, Gennady V. Vasiliev, Artem Yu. Pronozin, Dmitry A. Afonnikov, Elena K. Khlestkina and Olesya Yu. Shoeva
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061231 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Breeding of cereals with anthocyanin-rich grains is promising for health food production. Here, we transferred genes responsible for activation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in the grain pericarp (Ant1 and Ant2) and aleurone (HvMyc2) to elite barley cultivars Aley, Tanay, and
[...] Read more.
Breeding of cereals with anthocyanin-rich grains is promising for health food production. Here, we transferred genes responsible for activation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in the grain pericarp (Ant1 and Ant2) and aleurone (HvMyc2) to elite barley cultivars Aley, Tanay, and Vorsinsky-2 by marker-assisted backcrossing. Donors were Bowman lines BW648 and BW418. Three pairs of near-isogenic lines (NILs) with purple or blue colored grains were chosen in generation BC6F2 and propagated up to BC6F6. Genotyping-by-sequencing of resulting NILs and parental lines showed that the NILs carry 4.6–17.6% of donor SNPs including those at target loci. Unexpected big blocks of donor SNPs were revealed in some NILs on chromosomes 1H and 5H that do not carry target loci. The NILs possessed 274% and 12% higher anthocyanin (40.0–170.4 μg/g) and total phenolic content (2367.2–4396.8 μg/g), respectively, compared to original cultivars (18.3–33.1 μg/g and 2319.6–3768.5 μg/g). On average, antioxidant activity was 14% higher, although some lines showed reduced activity. NILs’ productivity depended on growth conditions and was similar to that of the recurrent cultivars. Hence, the applied breeding strategy is an effective approach to enrichment of grain anthocyanin content in barley.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Qfhb.yzu.3B.1 and Qfhb.yzu.6B.3 Are Stable Quantitative Trait Loci for Wheat Resistance to Fusarium Head Blight with Diverse Genetic Backgrounds
by
Zhengxi Sun, Hongyan Ye, Xiang Chen, Jiale Cheng, Fanfan Zhu, Dapeng Yang, Sijia Hu, Lei Li and Tao Li
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061230 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fusarium head blight (FHB) can cause serious yield loss and significant mycotoxin contamination, which seriously threaten global food security and safety. Breeding stable and durable cultivars that are resistant to FHB is one of the most effective approaches to controlling this disease. Fhb1
[...] Read more.
Fusarium head blight (FHB) can cause serious yield loss and significant mycotoxin contamination, which seriously threaten global food security and safety. Breeding stable and durable cultivars that are resistant to FHB is one of the most effective approaches to controlling this disease. Fhb1 is a well-known genetic locus for FHB resistance, but its resistance is not always effective across diverse wheat genetic backgrounds. To achieve a high and durable level of resistance, the discovery and use of additional quantitative trait loci (QTL) for FHB resistance are essentially needed in breeding programs. In this study, two independent wheat natural populations of different origins were used for mining resistance QTL with a major and stable effect. Using genome-wide association analysis (GWAS), a total of 58 marker–trait associations (MTAs) on chromosomes 1A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 4D, 5A, 5B, 5D, 6A, 6B, 6D, 7A and 7B were found to be significant for type II resistance to FHB. These 58 MTAs represent 24 putative QTL. Among these QTL, Qfhb.yzu.3B.1 and Qfhb.yzu.6B.3 were stably detected in the two natural populations across three consecutive experimental years. The favorable haplotypes at the two QTL could significantly reduce the disease severity, either individually or in combination. These two QTL are also additive to Fhb1 in cultivars with different genetic backgrounds. Breeder-friendly markers were designed to differentiate the contrasting alleles at these two loci, thus proving very useful for improving FHB resistance in wheat by marker-assisted selection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Effects of Interseeding Cover Crops into Corn and Soybean on Biomass Production, Grain Yields and Ecosystem Services: A Review
by
Hans W. Klopp
Agronomy 2024, 14(6), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14061229 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Planting cover crops can improve soil health and help to sustain agricultural crop yields. In northern climates where corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) are grown, cover crop biomass production can be low. This has led to people
[...] Read more.
Planting cover crops can improve soil health and help to sustain agricultural crop yields. In northern climates where corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) are grown, cover crop biomass production can be low. This has led to people investigating the potential of interseeding cover crops into the growing main crop. This paper sought to determine biomass production and the benefit to grain yields, weed control and soil properties from interseeding cover crops into corn and soybean. This review included 70 studies published prior to 15 March 2024. Interseeded cover crops that were winter-hardy such as cereal rye (Secale cereale L.) produced more biomass in the spring (1.04 Mg ha−1 average biomass production) than any of the interseeded cover crops did in fall (0.35 Mg ha−1 average biomass production), primarily at crop row spacings of 76 cm. Factors that affected cover crop biomass production were crop stage, planting method, tillage practice, irrigation and row spacing. There was not a consistent widely planted cover crop species that produced the most biomass. Interseeded cover crops reduced weed biomass by 46% compared to weed control and generally did not affect crop grain yields when planted after V4 crop stage. Interseeded cover crops reduced soil nitrate concentration but generally did not affect other soil properties including soil water content. However, most of these studies planted cover crops at the same site for less than three years. Early interseeded cover crops generally did not perform better than interseeded winter-hardy cover crops planted around crop physiological maturity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Agronomy Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Agronomy, Climate, Earth, Remote Sensing, Water
Advances in Crop Simulation Modelling
Topic Editors: Mavromatis Theodoros, Thomas Alexandridis, Vassilis AschonitisDeadline: 15 June 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Beverages, Fermentation, Horticulturae, Plants
Grapevine Facing Climate Change: From Land, through Plants to Grapes and Wine
Topic Editors: Othmane Merah, Ana Fernandes De Oliveira, Daniela Satta, Mario Cunha, Jesus Yuste, Jalloul BouajilaDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Environments, Microorganisms, Pollutants, Sustainability, Water
Soil and Water Pollution Process and Remediation Technologies, 2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Hongbiao Cui, Ru Wang, Yu Shi, Haiying Lu, Lin ChenDeadline: 15 July 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Diversity, Forests, IJPB, Plants
Plant Invasion
Topic Editors: Bruce Osborne, Panayiotis G. DimitrakopoulosDeadline: 31 July 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Agronomy
Spatially-Based Services and Applications in Precision Farming: From Data to Field Information
Guest Editor: Enrico Corrado Borgogno MondinoDeadline: 20 June 2024
Special Issue in
Agronomy
The Applicability of Plant Tissue Culture in Propagation and Conservation—Series II
Guest Editor: Mukund R. ShuklaDeadline: 30 June 2024
Special Issue in
Agronomy
From Soil-Plant-Microbial Interactions to New-Concept Biopesticides and Biofertilizers
Guest Editor: Nazrul IslamDeadline: 15 July 2024
Special Issue in
Agronomy
Sustainable Cropping Systems and Biomasses for Energy and Biorefinery Applications
Guest Editors: Nicolai David Jablonowski, Moritz von Cossel, Yasir IqbalDeadline: 25 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Agronomy
Advances of Agricultural Robotics in Sustainable Agriculture 4.0
Collection Editors: Xiangjun Zou, Yunchao Tang, Junfeng Gao, Liang Gong, Simon van Mourik, Ya Xiong
Topical Collection in
Agronomy
Machine Learning in Digital Agriculture
Collection Editors: Thomas Scholten, Karsten Schmidt, Ruhollah Taghizadeh-Mehrjardi
Topical Collection in
Agronomy
A Series of Special Reviews and Topic Analyses That Explore Major Trends and Challenges in Agronomy
Collection Editors: Peter Langridge, Leslie A. Weston, Ilias Travlos
Topical Collection in
Agronomy
Agro-Ecology for Grassland-Based Farming Systems
Collection Editor: Gianni Bellocchi