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Agronomy
Volume 15
Issue 6
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Agronomy, Volume 15, Issue 6 (June 2025) – 235 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Castor (Ricinus communis L.) is a highly resilient oilseed crop that is well-suited to Mediterranean climates and marginal lands, requiring minimal agricultural inputs. Its notable oil yield and unique properties make it an optimal candidate for the production of biofuels, bioplastics, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals. In response to increasing energy demands and European Union sustainability targets, castor presents itself as a strategic non-food crop that aligns with the criteria established according to the Renewable Energy Directive (RED). This review explores castor historical origins, adaptability, agronomic requirements, and market potential, underscoring its significance in the restoration of degraded land and its contributions to a low-carbon, circular bioeconomy. View this paper
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13 pages, 2746 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Microbial Community on Soybean Cyst Nematode Under the Condition of Suppressive Soil
by Jie Song, Meiqi Liu, Qin Yao, Xiaoyu Zhang, Zhiming Zhang, Fengjuan Pan and Yanli Xu
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1496; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061496 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 244
Abstract
Disease-suppressive soils confer fitness advantages to plants after a disease outbreak due to the subsequent assembly of protective microbiota in natural environments. However, the role of ecological effects on the assemblage of a protective soil microbiome is largely elusive. In this study, we [...] Read more.
Disease-suppressive soils confer fitness advantages to plants after a disease outbreak due to the subsequent assembly of protective microbiota in natural environments. However, the role of ecological effects on the assemblage of a protective soil microbiome is largely elusive. In this study, we investigated the composition of parasitic microbes and their relationships with soybean cyst nematodes in suppressive soil. The results showed that parasitic microbial assembly along soybean cyst nematodes was shaped predominantly by the density of soybean cyst nematodes. We also found soybean continuous cropping increased the number of parasitic microbes of soybean cyst nematodes with the order of Ss > Sr > Sc, while it decreased the population of soybean cyst nematodes, resulting in a natural decline in the number of soybean cyst nematodes. These findings indicate that the population of soybean cyst nematodes accumulated parasitic microorganisms against this soil-borne disease under soybean long-term continuous cropping. Moreover, the metabolic activity of cyst parasitic microbes was increased by two years of continuous cropping (Sc) of soybean, and total carbon and total nitrogen of soil were the main impact factors in this short-term continuous cropping for metabolic patterns of the cyst parasitic microbes. In summary, the results highlight that the interaction of plants and disease shape the soil microbiome, recruit a group of disease resistance-inducing microbes, and modulate their beneficial traits to protect the plant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)
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17 pages, 272 KiB  
Article
High Planting Density Combined with Delayed Topping Improves Short Fruiting Branch Cotton Yield by Enhancing Biomass Accumulation, Canopy Light Interception and Delaying Leaf Senescence
by Yin Huang, Tao Wang, Xiaoxia Luo, Jianfei Wu, Yanfeng Deng, Qingquan Kong, Xiu Yang, Shuiping Xiao and Feiyu Tang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1495; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061495 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 170
Abstract
Short fruiting branch cotton (SFBC) has a compact plant architecture suitable for dense planting. Plant population density (PPD) and topping are important agronomic practices to achieve high yielding by optimizing cotton plant structure. However, their individual and interactive effects on SFBC growth and [...] Read more.
Short fruiting branch cotton (SFBC) has a compact plant architecture suitable for dense planting. Plant population density (PPD) and topping are important agronomic practices to achieve high yielding by optimizing cotton plant structure. However, their individual and interactive effects on SFBC growth and yield are poorly understood. This study aimed to explore cotton growth and yield responses to various combinations of PPD and topping time (TT) and the underlying physio-ecological mechanism. Four combinations were included in a two-year field experiment (2023–2024) involving two PPD levels (5.3 plants m−2, low density LD; 8 plants m−2, high density HD) and two TT levels (early topping for leaving ten sympodials per plant ET; late topping for leaving fifteen sympodials per plant LT), and compared in terms of biomass accumulation, photosynthetically active radiation capture, and leaf senescence during entire reproductive growth period. Compared to the other three combinations, the combination of HD and LT (HDLT) achieved a higher lint yield due to a greater biological yield, which was predominantly attributed to the higher average rate during the rapid biomass increasing period. Owing to delayed leaf senescence caused by the HD and the LT, the HDLT performed better in leaf senescence-related attributes at the late growth stage. Moreover, these improved attributes also contributed to a higher radiation interception rate and photosynthetic efficiency at the late growth stage. Taken together, combining high density with later topping tends to increase the lint yield of SFBC through increasing dry matter accumulation, delaying leaf senescence, and enhancing canopy radiation interception rate at the late growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Innovative Cropping Systems)
23 pages, 1348 KiB  
Review
The Genome Era of Forage Selection: Current Status and Future Directions for Perennial Ryegrass Breeding and Evaluation
by Jiashuai Zhu, Kevin F. Smith, Noel O. Cogan, Khageswor Giri and Joe L. Jacobs
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1494; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061494 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 309
Abstract
Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is a cornerstone forage species in temperate dairy systems worldwide, valued for its high yield potential, nutritive quality, and grazing recovery. However, current regional evaluation systems face challenges in accurately assessing complex traits like seasonal dry matter [...] Read more.
Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is a cornerstone forage species in temperate dairy systems worldwide, valued for its high yield potential, nutritive quality, and grazing recovery. However, current regional evaluation systems face challenges in accurately assessing complex traits like seasonal dry matter yield due to polygenic nature, environmental variability, and lengthy evaluation cycles. This review examines the evolution of perennial ryegrass evaluation systems, from regional frameworks—like Australia’s Forage Value Index (AU-FVI), New Zealand’s Forage Value Index (NZ-FVI), and Ireland’s Pasture Profit Index (PPI)—to advanced genomic prediction (GP) approaches. We discuss prominent breeding frameworks—F2 family, Half-sib family, and Synthetic Population—and their integration with high-throughput genotyping technologies. Statistical models for GP are compared, including marker-based, kernel-based, and non-parametric approaches, highlighting their strengths in capturing genetic complexity. Key research efforts include representative genotyping approaches for heterozygous populations, disentangling endophyte–host interactions, extending prediction to additional economically important traits, and modeling genotype-by-environment (G × E) interactions. The integration of multi-omics data, advanced phenotyping technologies, and environmental modeling offers promising avenues for enhancing prediction accuracy under changing environmental conditions. By discussing the combination of regional evaluation systems with GP, this review provides comprehensive insights for enhancing perennial ryegrass breeding and evaluation programs, ultimately supporting sustainable productivity of the dairy industry in the face of climate challenges. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Strategies for Forage Breeding and Cultivation Under Challenging Conditions)
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21 pages, 4500 KiB  
Article
Vvmrp1, Vvmt1, and Vvmt2 Co-Expression Improves Cadmium Tolerance and Reduces Cadmium Accumulation in Rice
by Hongjuan Han, Yu Wang, Cen Qian, Quanhong Yao and Qiaoquan Liu
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1493; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061493 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural soils severely threatens rice production and food safety. To address this issue, this study developed transgenic rice lines co-expressing three Vitis vinifera genes: the ABCC transporter Vvmrp1 and metallothioneins Vvmt1 and Vvmt2. AlphaFold computational modeling confirmed the [...] Read more.
Cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural soils severely threatens rice production and food safety. To address this issue, this study developed transgenic rice lines co-expressing three Vitis vinifera genes: the ABCC transporter Vvmrp1 and metallothioneins Vvmt1 and Vvmt2. AlphaFold computational modeling confirmed the conserved ABCC-type transporter domain in VvMRP1. Under hydroponic conditions, transgenic rice showed remarkable Cd tolerance, surviving 30 mM Cd (lethal to wildtype, WT) without growth penalties, and exhibited 62.5% survival at 1 mM Cd vs. complete wild-type mortality. Field-relevant Cd exposure (1 mM) reduced Cd accumulation to 35.8% in roots, 83% in stems, and 76.8% in grains compared to WT. Mechanistic analyses revealed that Vvmrp1 mediates cellular Cd efflux while Vvmt1 and 2 chelate free Cd ions, synergistically inhibiting Cd translocation. Transgenic plants also maintained better Fe, P, and Mg homeostasis under Cd stress. This study pioneers the co-expression of a transporter with metallothioneins in rice, demonstrating their complementary roles in Cd detoxification without pleiotropic effects from endogenous gene modification. The findings provide an effective genetic strategy for cultivating low-Cd rice in contaminated soils, offering significant implications for food safety and sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)
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13 pages, 1339 KiB  
Article
Combined Analysis of SRAP and SSR Markers Reveals Genetic Diversity and Phylogenetic Relationships in Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.)
by Zhifeng Guo, Zhenzhu Fan, Xueyi Li, Haoqi Du, Zhuolong Wu, Tiemei Li and Guohui Yang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1492; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061492 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is a high-value horticultural crop recognized for its significant economic importance and exceptional nutritional profile. We analyzed 76 raspberry accessions (wild and cultivar) using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers, and we established a [...] Read more.
Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) is a high-value horticultural crop recognized for its significant economic importance and exceptional nutritional profile. We analyzed 76 raspberry accessions (wild and cultivar) using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and sequence-related amplified polymorphism (SRAP) markers, and we established a standardized SRAP system for this species. Genetic similarity differed markedly between markers: SSR values spanned 0.47–0.98 (mean = 0.73), compared to the narrower range of 0.52–0.97 (mean = 0.75) for SRAP. Cultivar accessions exhibited higher intra-group homogeneity than wild accessions, and northeastern wild accessions showed more stable similarity metrics than Guizhou wild accessions. In hierarchical clustering, the resolution varied depending on the labeling marker. The cluster analysis by SSR markers identified two main clusters and further partitioned them into three clusters. In contrast, the SRAP system revealed two primary clusters, which subsequently diverged into five subclusters. SSR markers effectively captured population-level differentiation, whereas SRAP markers enabled precise discrimination of cultivars and ecotypes through non-coding region polymorphisms. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed closer genetic affinity between northeastern wild and cultivated accessions, which diverged significantly from Guizhou. This dual-marker approach revealed complementary information: SSR markers were used to survey genome-wide diversity, while SRAP markers were used to detect structural variations. Their integrated application enhances germplasm characterization efficiency and provides practical strategies for raspberry conservation and molecular breeding. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conventional vs. Modern Techniques in Horticultural Crop Breeding)
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23 pages, 4909 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Sustainability of Miscanthus and Willow as Global Bioenergy Crops: Current and Future Climate Conditions (Part 2)
by Mohamed Abdalla, Astley Hastings, Grant Campbell, Jon Mccalmont, Anita Shepherd and Pete Smith
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1491; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061491 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 209
Abstract
Land-based bioenergy systems are increasingly promoted for their potential to support climate change mitigation and energy security. Building on previous productivity and efficiency analyses, this study applies the MiscanFor and SalixFor models to evaluate land use energy intensity (LUEI) for Miscanthus (Miscanthus [...] Read more.
Land-based bioenergy systems are increasingly promoted for their potential to support climate change mitigation and energy security. Building on previous productivity and efficiency analyses, this study applies the MiscanFor and SalixFor models to evaluate land use energy intensity (LUEI) for Miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus) and willow (Salix spp.) under baseline (1961–1990) and future climate scenarios, and Business-as-Usual (B1) and Fossil Intensive (A1FI) scenarios, projected to 2060. The study also assesses the impact of biomass transport on energy use efficiency (EUE) and quantifies soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration by Miscanthus. Under current conditions, Miscanthus exhibits a higher global mean LUEI (321 ± 179 GJ ha−1) than willow (164 ± 115.6 GJ ha−1) across all regions (p < 0.0001), with energy yield hotspots in tropical and subtropical regions such as South America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. Colder regions, such as Europe and Canada, show limited energy potential. By 2060, LUEI is projected to decline by 9–15% for Miscanthus and 8–13% for willow, with B1 improving energy returns in temperate zones and A1FI reducing them in the tropics. Global EUE for Miscanthus declines significantly (p < 0.0001) by 21%, from 15.73 ± 7.1 to 12.37 ± 5.2 as biomass transport distance increases from 50 km to 500 km. Mean SOC sequestration is estimated at 1.20 ± 1.46 t C ha−1, with tropical hotspots reaching up to 4.57 t C ha−1 and some cooler regions exhibiting net losses (–7.93 t C ha−1). Climate change significantly reduces SOC gains compared to baseline (p < 0.0001), although differences between B1 and A1FI are not statistically significant. These findings highlight the importance of region-specific, climate-resilient biomass systems to optimize energy returns and carbon benefits under future climate conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Grassland Productivity and Sustainability — 2nd Edition)
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25 pages, 3645 KiB  
Article
Design and Analysis of a Sowing Depth Detection and Control Device for a Wheat Row Planter Based on Fuzzy PID and Multi-Sensor Fusion
by Yueyue Li, Bing Qi, Encai Bao, Zhong Tang, Yi Lian and Meiyan Sun
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1490; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061490 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 285
Abstract
A bench test apparatus was developed to address the impact of varying terrain undulation on sowing depth in multi-row wheat sowing machines. In addition, a real-time sowing depth control model was proposed and implemented, enabling automatic adjustment of the sowing depth and ensuring [...] Read more.
A bench test apparatus was developed to address the impact of varying terrain undulation on sowing depth in multi-row wheat sowing machines. In addition, a real-time sowing depth control model was proposed and implemented, enabling automatic adjustment of the sowing depth and ensuring uniform seed placement. The model operates by first specifying a target sowing depth, then acquiring real-time sowing depth measurements via a laser range sensor and terrain feature data ahead of the machine via an array-based LiDAR sensor. These two data streams undergo multi-sensor fusion to produce an accurate error and error rate. A fuzzy PID control algorithm then performs online parameter tuning of the PID gains, generating the control output needed to drive the stepper motor and adjust the depth-limiting wheel height, thereby precisely regulating the sowing depth. Experimental results demonstrate that under representative test conditions, the system achieves excellent sowing depth control performance; average error reductions of 10.7%, 22.9%, and 9.6% were observed when using fuzzy PID control versus no control. This work provides a technical foundation for intelligent sowing depth control in wheat sowing machines and lays the groundwork for future in-field adaptive operation and multi-scenario integrated control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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28 pages, 1300 KiB  
Review
Somaclonal Variation and Clonal Fidelity in Commercial Micropropagation: Challenges and Perspectives
by Sweety Majumder, Abir U. Igamberdiev and Samir C. Debnath
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1489; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061489 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 447
Abstract
Plant tissue culture has been recognized as an essential technology in plant science research. This process is widely used to regenerate and conserve phenotypically and genetically identical plant resources. The advancements in tissue culture methods have become a feasible option for the micropropagation [...] Read more.
Plant tissue culture has been recognized as an essential technology in plant science research. This process is widely used to regenerate and conserve phenotypically and genetically identical plant resources. The advancements in tissue culture methods have become a feasible option for the micropropagation of plants at the commercial level. The success of commercial micropropagation necessitates genetic stability among regenerated plants. Sometimes, in vitro-grown plants show genetic and epigenetic alterations due to stressful artificial culture conditions, media compositions, and explant types. As a result, it is essential to ensure genetic stability among tissue culture-derived plantlets at a very early stage. Somaclonal variations can be detected by phenotypic assessment, cytogenetic, DNA-based molecular markers, bisulfite sequencing, and RNA sequencing. This review aims to describe the causes behind somaclonal variation, the selection of somaclonal variants, and their uses in crop and plant improvement at the commercial level. This study discusses the optimization processes of undesirable genetic and epigenetic variation among micropropagated plants and their application in global horticulture, agriculture, and forestry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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17 pages, 11379 KiB  
Article
Alternating Wetting and Moderate Drying Irrigation Promotes Phosphorus Uptake and Transport in Rice
by Jiangyao Fu, Ying Liu, Yajun Zhang, Kuanyu Zhu, Junfei Gu, Zhiqin Wang, Weiyang Zhang and Jianchang Yang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1488; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061488 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Despite the essential role of phosphorus (P) in rice growth, P-use efficiency (PUE) remains low due to limited bioavailable P in soils and an over-reliance on chemical fertilizers, leading to resource waste and environmental risks, such as eutrophication. This study investigates whether and [...] Read more.
Despite the essential role of phosphorus (P) in rice growth, P-use efficiency (PUE) remains low due to limited bioavailable P in soils and an over-reliance on chemical fertilizers, leading to resource waste and environmental risks, such as eutrophication. This study investigates whether and how alternating wetting and moderate drying (AWMD) irrigation promotes P absorption and transport in rice. This study was conducted over two years using a pot experiment. Conventional flooding (CF) irrigation was applied throughout the growing season, while AWMD irrigation was imposed from two weeks after transplanting to one week before harvest. AWMD improved shoot biomass by 8.7–9.4% and the photosynthetic rate by 12–15%, significantly enhanced PUE, and optimized root traits and enzyme activities related to P uptake. It also promoted leaf acid phosphatase and ribonuclease activities, facilitating P remobilization to grains. In conclusion, AWMD enhanced the ability of roots to absorb P and optimized the redistribution of P between vegetative organs and grains, synergistically increasing grain yield and PUE in rice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Trade-Offs in Crop Production: Yield and Quality, Resource Use Efficiency, and Environmental Sustainability)
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22 pages, 3823 KiB  
Article
Large-Scale Apple Orchard Identification from Multi-Temporal Sentinel-2 Imagery
by Chunxiao Wu, Yundan Liu, Jianyu Yang, Anjin Dai, Han Zhou, Kaixuan Tang, Yuxuan Zhang, Ruxin Wang, Binchuan Wei and Yifan Wang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1487; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061487 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 337
Abstract
Accurately extracting large-scale apple orchards from remote sensing imagery is of importance for orchard management. Most studies lack large-scale, high-resolution apple orchard maps due to sparse orchard distribution and similar crops, making mapping difficult. Using phenological information and multi-temporal feature-selected imagery, this paper [...] Read more.
Accurately extracting large-scale apple orchards from remote sensing imagery is of importance for orchard management. Most studies lack large-scale, high-resolution apple orchard maps due to sparse orchard distribution and similar crops, making mapping difficult. Using phenological information and multi-temporal feature-selected imagery, this paper proposed a large-scale apple orchard mapping method based on the AOCF-SegNet model. First, to distinguish apples from other crops, phenological information was used to divide time periods and select optimal phases for each spectral feature, thereby obtaining spectral features integrating phenological and temporal information. Second, semantic segmentation models (FCN-8s, SegNet, U-Net) were com-pared, and SegNet was chosen as the base model for apple orchard identification. Finally, to address the issue of the low proportion of apple orchards in remote sensing images, a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) and Focal Loss function were integrated into the SegNet model, followed by hyperparameter optimization, resulting in AOCF-SegNet. The results from mapping the Yantai apple orchards indicate that AOCF-SegNet achieved strong segmentation performance, with an overall accuracy of 89.34%. Compared to the SegNet, U-Net, and FCN-8s models, AOCF-SegNet achieved an improvement in overall accuracy by 3%, 6.1%, and 9.6%, respectively. The predicted orchard area exhibited an approximate area consistency of 71.97% with the official statistics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)
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18 pages, 1492 KiB  
Article
Transforming Land Use Patterns to Improve Soil Fertility in the Horqin Sandy Land
by Feng Hao, Chao Li, Tiefeng Yu, Haibo An, Mei Xiong, Kai Gao and Jiabing Yu
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1486; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061486 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 282
Abstract
Transforming land use patterns prevents and controls desertification. In the Horqin Sandy Land, we evaluated the soil restoration effects of planting corn (from 2014 to 2018) on previously uncultivated land (in 2013), followed by the transition to alfalfa cultivation under five nitrogen application [...] Read more.
Transforming land use patterns prevents and controls desertification. In the Horqin Sandy Land, we evaluated the soil restoration effects of planting corn (from 2014 to 2018) on previously uncultivated land (in 2013), followed by the transition to alfalfa cultivation under five nitrogen application levels (from 2019 to 2023). After corn cultivation, the soil available nitrogen (AN), C/N ratio, C/P ratio, and N/P ratio decreased by 39.02%, 7.14%, 21.35%, and 12.83%, respectively, compared to those of uncultivated land. However, following the planting of alfalfa, especially in 2023, the bulk density values were the lowest, while the AN, soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus values were the highest. An AHP-fuzzy comprehensive evaluation showed that the available phosphorus (AP), SOC, C/N, C/P, and N/P had significant weights of 0.12, 0.128, 0.133, and 0.128, respectively, and thus were key soil quality determinants. The soil quality assessment values for the N1 and N2 treatments were the highest at 0.208 and 0.202, respectively. Conclusively, the intensive cultivation of alfalfa under 51.75 and 103.5 kg/ha N improves soil fertility. This study provides theoretical support for the restoration of desertified soils in the Horqin Sandy Land. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Grassland and Pasture Science)
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15 pages, 2301 KiB  
Article
Effects of Dissolved Organic Carbon Leaching and Soil Carbon Fractions Under Intercropping Dactylis glomerata L.–Medicago sativa L. in Response to Extreme Rainfall
by Cui Xu, Peng Zhang, Lu Chen, Wenzhi Wang, Xukun Yang, Zhenhuan Liu and Yanhua Mi
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1485; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061485 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 417
Abstract
Climate change aggravates the frequency of extreme rainfall events, resulting in carbon (C) loss. For the special climate of the highlands, cultivating the land underneath orchards increases C reservation. Systematic research on the impact of extreme rainfall on soil organic carbon compositions and [...] Read more.
Climate change aggravates the frequency of extreme rainfall events, resulting in carbon (C) loss. For the special climate of the highlands, cultivating the land underneath orchards increases C reservation. Systematic research on the impact of extreme rainfall on soil organic carbon compositions and (dissolved organic carbon) DOC leaching is limited, especially regarding the response to different cropping patterns underneath orchards, requiring a deeper understanding. The results showed that the DOC-leaching fluxes for the cropping patterns under rainstorms and heavy rainstorms were in the order Dactylis glomerata L. monocropping (13.5, 4.4 kg/hm2) > Medicago sativa L. monocropping (11.2, 3.8 kg/hm2) ≥ D. glomerata. + M. sativa. (10.4, 3.6 kg/hm2). The DOC-leaching fluxes during heavy rainstorms were reduced with D + M, and the root morphology showed a significant correlation with DOC concentration. Compared to the D, SOC in layers 40–60 cm of the M and the D + M increased by 68.36% and 64.24%, respectively. TP and POC of the D + M increased with soil depth. Relationships between cropping pattern and rainfall intensity for particulate organic carbon (POC) and mineral-associated organic carbon (MOC) were observed. Heavy rainstorms reduced MOC, including the decomposition of substances related to the MOC, such as ROC and DOC, then POC in layers 40–60 cm increased; compared with 0–20 cm of D and M, the content of readily oxidizable carbon (ROC) in layers 40–60 cm reduced by 56.90~77.64%, and the POC increased by 38.38~87.00% in the D + M. Therefore, it was suggested that the decomposition of deeper MOC due to heavy rainstorms is the main source of soil POC and leaching DOC. This will provide a reference basis for research on assessing soil carbon-leaching fluxes and carbon stocks under extreme rainfall events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water-Carbon Processes and Management in Agronomic and Agroforestry Systems)
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12 pages, 1242 KiB  
Article
Identification of Vitis riparia as Donor of Black Rot Resistance in the Mapping Population V3125 x ‘Börner’ and Additive Effect of Rgb1 and Rgb2
by Patricia Weber, Anna Werner, Friederike Rex, Franco Röckel, Oliver Trapp, Reinhard Töpfer and Ludger Hausmann
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061484 - 19 Jun 2025
Viewed by 387
Abstract
Viticulture is facing challenges, like the impact of climate change and various pests and pathogens. Alongside powdery and downy mildew, black rot is one of the most prevalent fungal diseases in European wine-growing regions. The focus of grapevine breeding research has so far [...] Read more.
Viticulture is facing challenges, like the impact of climate change and various pests and pathogens. Alongside powdery and downy mildew, black rot is one of the most prevalent fungal diseases in European wine-growing regions. The focus of grapevine breeding research has so far been mainly on resistance to mildew diseases, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) in breeding material is possible for the most important resistance loci. However, only a few loci have been described for black rot resistance and these cannot yet be used for MAS. Thus, the characterization of genetic resistance to black rot and the establishment of closely linked genetic markers is important for the breeding of cultivars with multifungal resistances. In this study, an improved SSR marker-based genetic map of the biparental mapping population V3125 (‘Schiava Grossa’ x ‘Riesling’) x ‘Börner‘ (Vitis riparia x Vitis cinerea) was used to perform QTL analysis for black rot resistance. A total of 195 F1 individuals were analyzed at 347 SSR marker positions distributed on all 19 chromosomes. QTL analysis detected two QTLs conferring resistance to black rot on linkage groups 14 (Rgb1) and 16 (Rgb2). Our results revealed for the first time that Rgb1 and Rgb2 are derived from the wild species V. riparia. The presence of both loci in F1 individuals showed a clear additive effect for black rot resistance, supporting the breeding strategy of pyramiding two or more resistance factors to achieve a stronger overall resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Identification and Characterisation of Crop Agronomic Traits and Stress Resistance—2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 1539 KiB  
Article
Foliar Spray of Macronutrient Influences Fruit Quality of Sugar Belle® Mandarin Grown in Florida Sandy Soil
by Shankar Shrestha, Laura Waldo and Arnold Schumann
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1483; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061483 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Sugar Belle® mandarin is considered tolerant to Huanglongbing (HLB); however, recent reports have raised concerns about its fruit quality, noting issues such as reduced fruit size, thin peel, poor coloration, decreased firmness, and suboptimal juice quality. Two-year field experiments were conducted to [...] Read more.
Sugar Belle® mandarin is considered tolerant to Huanglongbing (HLB); however, recent reports have raised concerns about its fruit quality, noting issues such as reduced fruit size, thin peel, poor coloration, decreased firmness, and suboptimal juice quality. Two-year field experiments were conducted to improve external and internal fruit characteristics through foliar application of potassium (K) in five-year-old Sugar Belle mandarin grown in Florida sandy soil. The experiment consisted of foliar K supply (17 kg/ha) via Potassium Nitrate (PN, 4.7 kg/ha N), Dipotassium Phosphate (DKP, 12.7 kg/ha P2O5), PN with boron (PNB, 0.84 kg/ha B) at different application times (May, July, September), including one-time Gibberellic acid spray (GA@10 mg/L) and control treatments. PN application during July (PNJ) or two applications of PN with B during May and July (PNBMJ) resulted in a larger fruit size (>65 mm). Results showed that PN application before fall (May or July) resulted in a significantly thicker peel (2.3 mm), 1.15 fold more than the control and GA treatment. Fruit puncture resistance force was significantly higher (33.1 N) with GA treatment (p = 0.07), followed by PNBMJ (32.6 N). Meanwhile, K spray positively influenced juice qualities and peel color, regardless of application time or source. However, GA treatment significantly reduced juice quality and peel color. These findings highlighted the benefits of foliar K supply as PN to improve fruit qualities in HLB-affected citrus grown in sandy soil. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Water, Nutrient, and Pesticide Management of Fruit Crop)
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22 pages, 815 KiB  
Article
Effect of Nutrient Forms in Foliar Fertilizers on the Growth and Biofortification of Maize on Different Soil Types
by Rafał Januszkiewicz, Grzegorz Kulczycki, Elżbieta Sacała and Cezary Kabała
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061482 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 341
Abstract
This research aimed to evaluate how different chemical forms of key nutrients, delivered through an advanced foliar product (PRO) and a standard formulation (TRA), influence maize performance when grown on contrasting soil types. Each fertilizer provided a set of macro- and micronutrients, including [...] Read more.
This research aimed to evaluate how different chemical forms of key nutrients, delivered through an advanced foliar product (PRO) and a standard formulation (TRA), influence maize performance when grown on contrasting soil types. Each fertilizer provided a set of macro- and micronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, boron, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc, along with trace elements such as chromium, iodine, lithium, and selenium. In TRA, Fe and Zn were complexed with EDTA, and trace elements were present in mineral form. In PRO, Fe and Zn were chelated with amino acids, and trace elements were bound to plant extracts. The study examined increasing doses of PRO and their potential toxicity. Both fertilizers improved maize biomass: fresh weight increased by 5–8% and dry weight by 8–14%, depending on the dose. At the lowest dose, yields were similar. However, PRO was more effective in biofortifying maize with iron and zinc on sandy soil, increasing levels by 16% and 7% compared to TRA at the lowest dose and up to 29% at the highest dose. PRO was well tolerated at higher doses. No significant differences were observed between the second and third doses of PRO, suggesting reduced efficacy at the highest dose. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fertilizer Innovation and Practice in Sustainable Intensified Agriculture)
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19 pages, 2408 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Regulation of Starch–Sugar Metabolism by Potassium Enhances Carbon Partitioning and Processing Quality in Potatoes
by Jin-Li Li, Shu-Lei Feng, Rong Guo, Hong-Yu Yang, Li-Xiang Cheng, Bin Yu and Juan Liu
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1481; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061481 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 391
Abstract
To investigate the role of potassium in the regulation of potato growth, dynamic changes in starch–sugar metabolism, and processing quality. In this study, “Gannong Potato No. 9” was used as the test material, and five potassium concentration treatments of 0, 9.4, 23.5, 28.5, [...] Read more.
To investigate the role of potassium in the regulation of potato growth, dynamic changes in starch–sugar metabolism, and processing quality. In this study, “Gannong Potato No. 9” was used as the test material, and five potassium concentration treatments of 0, 9.4, 23.5, 28.5, and 37.6 mmol/L were set. The results showed that moderate application of potassium (23.5 mmol/L) significantly enhanced plant height, stem thickness, and tuber yield. It also promotes starch accumulation in all tissues and reduces sucrose, fructose, and glucose content, thus optimizing processing quality. Dynamic analyses showed that potassium affects carbohydrate transport and partitioning among tissues by regulating the direction of carbon partitioning and the rate of conversion. Correlation analysis confirmed the synergistic effect of starch–sugar metabolism among tissues, forming a spatio-temporally linked carbon allocation network. This study reveals the pivotal role of potash in potato starch–sugar metabolism and provides a theoretical basis for precision potassium application and quality improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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19 pages, 1200 KiB  
Article
Effects of Rice–Fish Coculture on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A Case Study in Terraced Paddy Fields of Qingtian, China
by Qixuan Li, Lina Xie, Shiwei Lin, Xiangbing Cheng, Qigen Liu and Yalei Li
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061480 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 359
Abstract
Rice–fish coculture, a traditional integrated agriculture–aquaculture system, has been recognized as a “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System” due to its ecological and socio-economic benefits. However, the impact of rice–fish coculture on greenhouse gas emissions remains controversial. This study investigated the effects of rice–fish [...] Read more.
Rice–fish coculture, a traditional integrated agriculture–aquaculture system, has been recognized as a “Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System” due to its ecological and socio-economic benefits. However, the impact of rice–fish coculture on greenhouse gas emissions remains controversial. This study investigated the effects of rice–fish coculture on methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions in the Qingtian rice–fish system, a 1200-year-old terraced paddy field system in Zhejiang Province, China. A field experiment with two treatments, rice–fish coculture (RF) and rice monoculture (RM), was conducted to examine the relationships between fish activities, water and soil properties, microbial communities, and greenhouse gas fluxes. Results showed that the RF system had significantly higher CH4 emissions, particularly during the early rice growth stage, compared to the RM system. This increase was attributed to the lower dissolved oxygen levels and higher methanogen abundance in the RF system, likely driven by the grazing, “muddying”, and burrowing activities of fish. In contrast, no significant differences in N2O emissions were observed between the two systems. Redundancy analysis revealed that water variables contributed more to the variation in greenhouse gas emissions than soil variables. Microbial community analysis indicated that the RF system supported a more diverse microbial community involved in methane cycling processes. These findings provide new insights into the complex interactions between fish activities, environmental factors, and microbial communities in regulating greenhouse gas emissions from rice–fish coculture systems. The results suggest that optimizing water management strategies and exploring the potential of microbial community manipulation could help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining the ecological and socio-economic benefits of these traditional integrated agriculture–aquaculture systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation: Interdisciplinary Perspectives, 2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 1927 KiB  
Article
Optimizing Nitrogen Fixation in Vicia sativa: The Role of Host Genetic Diversity
by María Isabel López-Román, Cristina Castaño-Herrero, Lucía De la Rosa and Elena Ramírez-Parra
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061479 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 321
Abstract
Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a legume widely used both as a grain and as forage due to its high protein content, which provides considerable nutritional enrichment for livestock feed. As a cover crop, it has the potential to fix atmospheric [...] Read more.
Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a legume widely used both as a grain and as forage due to its high protein content, which provides considerable nutritional enrichment for livestock feed. As a cover crop, it has the potential to fix atmospheric nitrogen through symbiosis with rhizobia, contributing to sustainable agricultural systems by enhancing soil fertility and reducing the dependence on chemical fertilizers. Although much research has been focused on optimizing Rhizobium inoculants to enhance biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in leguminous crops, the role of host plant genetic diversity in BNF has been underexplored. This study analyses a collection of V. sativa genotypes to evaluate their BNF by assaying their nodulation capacity, nodule nitrogenase activity, nitrogen fixation potential, and impact on biomass development. Our results reveal large variability in these parameters among the different genotypes, emphasizing the relevance of host legume diversity in the Rhizobium symbiosis. These findings show a direct relationship between nodule biomass development, nitrogen fixation capacity, shoot biomass production, and nitrogen content. However, no correlation was observed for other parameters such as the number of nodules, nitrogenase activity, and shoot nitrogen content. Taken together, these results suggest that selecting genotypes with high BNF capacity could be a promising strategy to improve nitrogen fixation in legume-based agricultural systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural and Non-Conventional Sources of Nitrogen for Plants)
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20 pages, 3916 KiB  
Article
Bridging the Gap: Limitations of Machine Learning in Real-World Prediction of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Rice in Hunan Province
by Qing-Qian Peng, Xia Zhou, Hang Zhou, Ye Liao, Zi-Yu Han, Lu Hu, Peng Zeng, Jiao-Feng Gu and Rong Zhang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061478 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 347
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) pollution poses a severe threat to rice safety and human health, while traditional linear models exhibit significant limitations in predicting rice Cd accumulation due to environmental complexities. This study systematically evaluated the predictive performance of Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting Decision [...] Read more.
Cadmium (Cd) pollution poses a severe threat to rice safety and human health, while traditional linear models exhibit significant limitations in predicting rice Cd accumulation due to environmental complexities. This study systematically evaluated the predictive performance of Random Forest (RF), Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), and Residual Neural Networks (ResNet), using a multi-source soil–rice dataset comprising 57,200 samples from Hunan Province. The results showed that the RF model performed best on the test set (R2 = 0.62), with the dominant features being soil’s available Cd (contributing 9.74%) and precipitation during the rice-filling stage (joint contribution of 15.96%). However, the model’s predictive performance experienced a sharp decline on the independent 2023 validation set comprising 393 samples from Yizhang County and Lengshuitan District, with R2 values ranging from −0.12 to −0.31. This highlighted the fundamental limitations of static data-driven paradigms. Agronomic management measures, simplified by heterogeneous data and binary encoding, failed to effectively represent the actual intervention intensity. The study demonstrated that while machine learning models captured nonlinear relationships in laboratory environments, they struggled to adapt to the dynamic interactions and spatiotemporal heterogeneity of farmland systems. Future efforts should focus on developing hybrid models guided by mechanistic insights, integrating dynamic environmental processes and real-time data, and promoting localized “one model per region” strategies to enhance predictive robustness. This study provides methodological insights for the technological transformation of agricultural artificial intelligence, emphasizing that the deep integration of data-driven approaches and mechanistic understanding is crucial for overcoming the “last mile” challenge. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Deep and Machine Learning in Crop Monitoring and Management)
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18 pages, 1439 KiB  
Article
Study on the Response of Cotton Leaf Color to Plant Water Content Changes and Optimal Irrigation Thresholds
by Binbin Mao, Lulu Wang, Junhui Cheng, Bing Chen, Jiandong Wang, Kai Zhang and Xiaowei Liu
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061477 - 18 Jun 2025
Viewed by 300
Abstract
Real-time monitoring of cotton moisture status and determination of appropriate irrigation thresholds are essential for achieving precision irrigation. Currently employed diagnostic methods based on physiological indicators, remote sensing, or soil moisture measurements typically present limitations including cumbersome procedures, high labor intensity, requirements for [...] Read more.
Real-time monitoring of cotton moisture status and determination of appropriate irrigation thresholds are essential for achieving precision irrigation. Currently employed diagnostic methods based on physiological indicators, remote sensing, or soil moisture measurements typically present limitations including cumbersome procedures, high labor intensity, requirements for specialized technical expertise, and delayed results. To address these challenges, this study investigated the relationship between plant water content and leaf RGB color values (red, green, and blue color values measured using LScolor technology) during the bud, flowering, and boll development stages, with the objective of establishing a predictive model for rapid, real-time moisture status monitoring. Given that leaf position and color values (R, G, and B) of different functional leaves may influence the relationship between leaf color and plant water content, and this relationship varies across different temporal periods, a two-year experiment was conducted. In 2023, leaf color data from the top five functional leaves were measured at five time points daily throughout the irrigation cycle. In 2024, the following four irrigation treatments were established: one conventional irrigation control treatment (CK) and three irrigation treatments at 72% (T1), 70% (T2), and 68% (T3) plant water content thresholds. Results demonstrated that the following: (1) plant water content initially declined during the day and subsequently showed slight recovery, indicating cotton’s particular susceptibility to water stress between 2:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.; (2) plant water content continuously decreased across five measurement periods following irrigation during the bud, flowering, and boll development stages, with R and G color values of the five functional leaves showing declining trends between 2:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., while B color values exhibited no consistent pattern; (3) correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations between plant water content and R and G color values of the five functional leaves during the 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. period, with highly significant correlations observed for the third and fourth leaves from the apex; (4) univariate and bivariate linear regression models were successfully established between cotton water content and R and G color values of the third and fourth leaves from the top; and (5) under 72% plant water content conditions, cotton achieved the highest yield and Irrigation Water Use Efficiency, indicating that 72% represents the optimal irrigation threshold. In conclusion, integrating leaf color–plant water content relationships with the 72% irrigation threshold enables rapid, non-destructive, large-scale diagnosis of cotton moisture status, providing a robust foundation for implementing effective precision irrigation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Saving in Irrigated Agriculture: Series II)
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23 pages, 2768 KiB  
Article
Evolution of Non-Destructive and Destructive Peach ‘Redhaven’ Quality Traits During Maturation
by Marko Vuković, Dejan Ljubobratović, Maja Matetić, Marija Brkić Bakarić, Slaven Jurić and Tomislav Jemrić
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1476; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061476 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 456
Abstract
The main goal of this study was to investigate and better understand the evolution of the main non-destructive and destructive quality parameters of peach ‘Redhaven’ during ripening process. This study was conducted from 8 to 21 July 2023, during which peaches ‘Redhaven’ were [...] Read more.
The main goal of this study was to investigate and better understand the evolution of the main non-destructive and destructive quality parameters of peach ‘Redhaven’ during ripening process. This study was conducted from 8 to 21 July 2023, during which peaches ‘Redhaven’ were harvested each second day from a commercial orchard located in Novaki Bistranjski. Maturity categories were defined according to different firmness thresholds: maturity for long-distance chain stores (H1), maturity for medium-distance chain stores (H2), maturity below the defined maximum firmness in order to preserve optimal quality traits (H3), ready to buy (H4), ready to eat (H5), and overripe (H6). The chlorophyll absorbance index was the non-destructive parameter that was mostly distinguished between maturity categories (r = 0.78 with firmness), followed by a* and h° ground colour parameters. During the first three maturity categories (H1–H3), firmness had a notably smaller correlation with titratable acidity and the ratio of total soluble solids and titratable acidity, which is not the case for a* and h° ground colour parameters, chlorophyll absorbance index, and the share of additional colour. During the last three maturity categories (H4–H6), non-destructive parameters are not reliable for maturity prediction. When ground colour parameters are measured near petiole insertion, mostly smaller segregation between maturity categories is obtained compared to when measured at the rest of the fruit. Total polyphenol and flavonoid content in peach juice notably corelated only in the last two maturity categories with L* ground colour parameter. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Harvesting: Integrating Pre-Harvest and Post-Harvest Technologies for Crop Production)
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19 pages, 5673 KiB  
Article
Transcription Factor Protein (TFP)-Trait Relationships During Sugarcane Internode Development
by Frederik C. Botha and Annelie Marquardt
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1475; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061475 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 186
Abstract
Understanding how transcription factors regulate biomass accumulation and sucrose storage is essential for improving sugarcane productivity. In this study, we quantified transcription factor protein (TFP) abundance in sugarcane internodes across developmental stages and growth rates. These profiles were correlated with key biochemical traits, [...] Read more.
Understanding how transcription factors regulate biomass accumulation and sucrose storage is essential for improving sugarcane productivity. In this study, we quantified transcription factor protein (TFP) abundance in sugarcane internodes across developmental stages and growth rates. These profiles were correlated with key biochemical traits, including lignin, glucan, hemicellulose, and sucrose content. From 7333 identified proteins, 205 were annotated as transcription factors spanning 22 families. By applying Pearson correlation followed by Partial Correlation with Information Theory (PCIT), we identified 46 high-confidence TFP-trait associations. Key regulators, such as ScMYB113, ScMADS15, and ScbZIP85, exhibited trait-specific roles, influencing sucrose storage and cell wall biosynthesis. Network topology revealed distinct transcriptional modules linked to biomass production, polysaccharide deposition, and intermediary metabolism. Notably, sucrose and lignin accumulation intensified after internode elongation ceased, highlighting shifts in transcriptional control during maturation. This study delivers the first protein-level regulatory map linking transcription factors to metabolic traits in sugarcane and provides a framework for targeting candidate regulators to enhance biomass quality and yield in bioenergy crops such as sugarcane. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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19 pages, 4137 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Suitable Cultivation Regions in China for Siraitia grosvenorii Using a MaxEnt Model and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry
by Fei Dong, Xiaojie Yan, Jingru Song, Xiyang Huang, Chuanming Fu, Fenglai Lu and Dianpeng Li
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061474 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 306
Abstract
Global climate change is reshaping the habitat suitability of medicinal plants, potentially compromising their phytochemical integrity and therapeutic efficacy. Siraitia grosvenorii, an edible medicinal plant in China, has expanded its cultivation area into non-native habitats. Therefore, this study analyzed the suitable cultivation [...] Read more.
Global climate change is reshaping the habitat suitability of medicinal plants, potentially compromising their phytochemical integrity and therapeutic efficacy. Siraitia grosvenorii, an edible medicinal plant in China, has expanded its cultivation area into non-native habitats. Therefore, this study analyzed the suitable cultivation region under different periods in China based on the MaxEnt model, and 59 samples were investigated to explore the interrelationships between chemical constituents and climatic variables through multivariate statistical analysis, which will contribute to meeting the sustainable supply of high-quality S. grosvenorii. We discovered that appropriate habitats cover an area of 58.76 × 104 km2, mainly in the southern parts of China. Under future climate conditions, suitable habitats decrease and shift to the northeast along the current habitats. The precipitation levels of the driest month, precipitation seasonality, and temperature seasonality were crucial for its distribution. Furthermore, 11 elements were identified to distinguish samples from different suitable areas through orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. Correlation analysis revealed a strong association between chemical constituents and various climatic factors. This study offers valuable insights into potential S. grosvenorii cultivation areas in China and provides reference indicators for quality evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Machine Learning and Modelling in Food Crops)
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16 pages, 15746 KiB  
Article
Impact of Treated Swine Wastewater on Elemental Distribution in the Growth of Habanero Pepper Seedlings
by Carlos David Hernández-Pinto, Marisela Ix-chel Vega-De-Lille, Germán Giácoman-Vallejos, Carmen Ponce-Caballero, Calos Alberto Quintal-Franco, Roger Iván Méndez-Novelo, Carlos Juan Alvarado-López and Emanuel Hernández-Núñez
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061473 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
The growing global demand for food has driven an increase in both swine and agricultural production, although swine wastewater poses a significant environmental risk. This study employed elemental mapping techniques to evaluate the effects of swine wastewater irrigation on the spatial distribution and [...] Read more.
The growing global demand for food has driven an increase in both swine and agricultural production, although swine wastewater poses a significant environmental risk. This study employed elemental mapping techniques to evaluate the effects of swine wastewater irrigation on the spatial distribution and concentration of essential and non-essential elements, as well as on the morphological responses of habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) seedlings. Six treatments were tested, ranging from 0% to 100% swine wastewater (T1 = 20%, T2 = 40%, T3 = 60%, T4 = 80%, T5 = 100%, and T6 = control with conventional fertilization), using a completely randomized design with five replications. Emergence, elemental distribution, morphology, and seedling quality were evaluated. The highest emergence percentages and rates were observed in the 20% wastewater treatment and the control groups. Diluted wastewater treatments promoted potassium and calcium uptake, which correlated with improved seedling growth and vigor, while irrigation with 100% wastewater led to excessive chlorine and sulfur accumulation, negatively affecting morphology. These results indicate that the controlled dilution of swine wastewater optimizes nutrient availability and seedling development, offering an environmentally sustainable alternative for producing high-quality habanero pepper seedlings. This study provides novel insights into the environmental implications of swine wastewater reuse through elemental mapping, underscoring its potential to support sustainable and regenerative agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Biotransformation of Agricultural Waste: Opportunities and Challenges)
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16 pages, 3034 KiB  
Review
Diversified Cropping Modulates Microbial Communities and Greenhouse Gas Emissions by Enhancing Soil Nutrients
by Zhongyan Wang, Huaqiang Xuan, Bei Liu, Hongfeng Zhang, Tongyan Zheng, Yunxia Liu, Luping Dai, Yi Xie, Xianchao Shang, Li Zhang, Long Yang, Sitakanta Pattanaik, Ling Yuan and Xin Hou
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061472 - 17 Jun 2025
Viewed by 318
Abstract
Crop diversification has been acknowledged as a means of lowering the environmental impact of agriculture without sacrificing agricultural output in recent years due to the growth of intensive agriculture. Crop rotation and intercropping—the methodical growing of two or more crops on one plot—are [...] Read more.
Crop diversification has been acknowledged as a means of lowering the environmental impact of agriculture without sacrificing agricultural output in recent years due to the growth of intensive agriculture. Crop rotation and intercropping—the methodical growing of two or more crops on one plot—are promising practices in this regard. Therefore, we conducted a quantitative bibliometric analysis of observed data between 2014 and 2024 to identify current research hotspots and future research trends in intercropping and crop rotation. A further secondary search for research advances in four key sub-areas (soil physicochemical properties, microbial diversity, greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, N2O, or CH4) and crop yield) was conducted based on keyword clustering. Our findings suggest that a crop diversification strategy can significantly increase soil nutrient content, optimize soil physicochemical properties, and regulate microbial community structure. In addition, this strategy can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, N2O, CH4), which will have a positive impact on the atmospheric environment. Crop diversification improves crop yield and quality, which in turn increases farmers’ economic returns. In order to maximize the effective production methods of crop rotation and intercropping, and to increase the efficiency of resource usage, this paper examines the development of research and practice on two cropping patterns worldwide. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Pathogenicity of Fungi in Crops—2nd Edition)
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30 pages, 3838 KiB  
Review
Overview of Agricultural Machinery Automation Technology for Sustainable Agriculture
by Li Jiang, Boyan Xu, Naveed Husnain and Qi Wang
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061471 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 758
Abstract
Automation in agricultural machinery, underpinned by the integration of advanced technologies, is revolutionizing sustainable farming practices. Key enabling technologies include multi-source positioning fusion (e.g., RTK-GNSS/LiDAR), intelligent perception systems utilizing multispectral imaging and deep learning algorithms, adaptive control through modular robotic systems and bio-inspired [...] Read more.
Automation in agricultural machinery, underpinned by the integration of advanced technologies, is revolutionizing sustainable farming practices. Key enabling technologies include multi-source positioning fusion (e.g., RTK-GNSS/LiDAR), intelligent perception systems utilizing multispectral imaging and deep learning algorithms, adaptive control through modular robotic systems and bio-inspired algorithms, and AI-driven data analytics for resource optimization. These technological advancements manifest in significant applications: autonomous field machinery achieving lateral navigation errors below 6 cm, UAVs enabling targeted agrochemical application, reducing pesticide usage by 40%, and smart greenhouses regulating microclimates with ±0.1 °C precision. Collectively, these innovations enhance productivity, optimize resource utilization (water, fertilizers, energy), and mitigate critical labor shortages. However, persistent challenges include technological heterogeneity across diverse agricultural environments, high implementation costs, limitations in adaptability to dynamic field conditions, and adoption barriers, particularly in developing regions. Future progress necessitates prioritizing the development of lightweight edge computing solutions, multi-energy complementary systems (integrating solar, wind, hydropower), distributed collaborative control frameworks, and AI-optimized swarm operations. To democratize these technologies globally, this review synthesizes the evolution of technology and interdisciplinary synergies, concluding with prioritized strategies for advancing agricultural intelligence to align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for zero hunger and responsible production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Agriculture for Sustainable Agro-Systems)
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14 pages, 1394 KiB  
Article
Aeration and Chemical Additives Prevent Hyperhydration and Allow the Production of High-Quality In Vitro Potato Plantlets
by Pál Szarvas and Judit Dobránszki
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061470 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 245
Abstract
The production of healthy propagating material of the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is based on in vitro micropropagation. In vitro conditions, however, can cause stress leading to reduced quality, growth and development of in vitro plantlets. The effects of aeration and chemical [...] Read more.
The production of healthy propagating material of the potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is based on in vitro micropropagation. In vitro conditions, however, can cause stress leading to reduced quality, growth and development of in vitro plantlets. The effects of aeration and chemical additives on the in vitro growth and development and quality of potato plantlets were investigated. Four different jar closure types were tested, i.e., an intact metal cap (control), two layers of semi-permeable plastic foil, a metal cap with a single hole, or a metal cap with three holes. Under tightly sealed conditions (intact metal cap) the effects of silver nitrate (2.0 mg L−1) and 1-naphtylacetic acid (0.1 mg L−1) alone or in combination with each other, meta-topoline (0.1 mg L−1), ascorbic acid (10.0 mg L−1), salicylic acid (0.1 mg L−1), jasmonic acid (0.1 mg L−1) and glutamic acid (0.3 mg L−1) were studied. Morpho-physiological parameters were measured at the end of the subculture. Leaf development was a good indicator of the presumed ethylene effect. The development and quality of the plantlets were best in cultures sealed with three-holed caps. Of the chemicals applied, only the presence of silver nitrate resulted in high-quality plantlets. The combined application of silver nitrate and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid promoted root growth and development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Tissue Culture and Plant Somatic Embryogenesis–2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 890 KiB  
Article
Species-Specific Chemotactic Responses of Entomopathogenic and Slug-Parasitic Nematodes to Cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa L.
by Marko Flajšman, Stanislav Trdan and Žiga Laznik
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061469 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 257
Abstract
The increasing environmental and health concerns associated with synthetic pesticides underscore the need for sustainable alternatives in pest management. This study investigates the chemotactic responses of five nematode species—Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae, Phasmarhabditis papillosa, and Oscheius [...] Read more.
The increasing environmental and health concerns associated with synthetic pesticides underscore the need for sustainable alternatives in pest management. This study investigates the chemotactic responses of five nematode species—Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae, Phasmarhabditis papillosa, and Oscheius myriophilus—to three major cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabidiol (CBD). Using a standardized chemotaxis assay, we quantified infective juvenile movement and calculated Chemotaxis Index (CI) values across varying cannabinoid concentrations. Our results revealed strong species-specific and dose-dependent responses. THC and CBG elicited significant attractant effects in P. papillosa, S. feltiae, and H. bacteriophora, with CI values ≥ 0.2, indicating their potential as behavioral modulators. In contrast, CBD had weaker or repellent effects, particularly at higher concentrations. O. myriophilus exhibited no consistent response, underscoring species-specific variation in chemosensory sensitivity. These findings demonstrate the potential utility of cannabinoids, especially THC and CBG, as biocompatible cues to enhance the efficacy of nematode-based biological control agents in integrated pest management (IPM). Further field-based studies are recommended to validate these results under realistic agricultural conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nematode Diseases and Their Management in Crop Plants)
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18 pages, 5001 KiB  
Article
Repair Effects of Scenedesmus obliquus on Cucumber Seedlings Under Saline–Alkali Stress
by Zhao Liu, Yanlong Dong, Xiaoxia Jin, Yan Liu, Zhonghui Yue and Wei Li
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1468; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061468 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 393
Abstract
In this study, cucumber seedlings were treated with Scenedesmus obliquus at different concentrations (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1 g·L−1) under saline–alkali stress (60 mM and 90 mM). The effects of Scenedesmus obliquus on the repair of cucumber seedlings under saline–alkali stress were [...] Read more.
In this study, cucumber seedlings were treated with Scenedesmus obliquus at different concentrations (0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1 g·L−1) under saline–alkali stress (60 mM and 90 mM). The effects of Scenedesmus obliquus on the repair of cucumber seedlings under saline–alkali stress were explored from physiological and morphological perspectives by measuring growth physiological indices and observing microstructure. It provides a cytological basis for the development of microalgae biofertilizer. The results showed that the addition of Scenedesmus obliquus effectively alleviated the physiological and structural damage in cucumber seedlings caused by saline–alkali stress, with the best mitigation effect at 0.75 g·L−1. More specifically, the addition of Scenedesmus obliquus significantly improved seedling fresh weight and plant height under saline–alkali stress, increased stem vascular vessel diameter, thickened vessel walls, reduced structural damage, the structural recovery of mitochondria, nuclei, and other organelles in the phloem; The results showed that root xylem vessel distribution became more centralized, vessel diameter decreased, and wall thickness decreased, with other changes similar to those in the stem; The number and volume of mesophyll cells increased, chloroplast morphology recovered, and chlorophyll content rose, effectively alleviating the impact of saline–alkali stress on photosynthesis. MDA content decreased, mitigating oxidative damage caused by saline–alkali stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant-Crop Biology and Biochemistry)
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18 pages, 2410 KiB  
Article
Contribution of Roots and Shoots of Three Summer Cover Crops to Soil C and N Cycling Post-Termination
by Dorna Saadat, Masoud Hashemi, Stephen Herbert and Artie Siller
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061467 - 16 Jun 2025
Viewed by 325
Abstract
Although summer cover crops (CCs) have relatively short growing periods, they can significantly enhance soil health by contributing to carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling. Three summer CCs—including oat, buckwheat, and pea—were planted in June–July and evaluated for their biomass, allocation of assimilates [...] Read more.
Although summer cover crops (CCs) have relatively short growing periods, they can significantly enhance soil health by contributing to carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling. Three summer CCs—including oat, buckwheat, and pea—were planted in June–July and evaluated for their biomass, allocation of assimilates to roots, C and N yield, and residue decomposition patterns after termination in a 14-week period. Total biomass (roots + shoots) was highest in buckwheat (5822 kg ha−1), followed by oat (4836 kg ha−1) and then pea (20 22 kg ha−1). Across species, the allocation of assimilates to roots decreased from 34% at 30 days after planting to 18% at termination. Total C yield was 2409, 1941, and 808 kg ha−1 for buckwheat, oat, and pea, respectively, with root C content considerably lower than shoot C content. The initial carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratios in the roots and shoots of pea were substantially lowest among the species and remained below the 25:1 threshold, indicating potential for net N mineralization. In contrast, oat and buckwheat exhibited initial C:N of 40–50 in roots and around 30 in shoots. These ratios shifted during decomposition. After a 14-week decomposition period, all CCs had released over 50% of their root and shoot biomass. However, the release of their C and N did not directly align with biomass decay. Approximately 70% of the C in roots and shoots of oats and buckwheat remained unreleased after 14 weeks. The slow N release from oat and buckwheat residues suggests potential N immobilization, which could lead to nitrogen deficiency in subsequent crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Agrotechnical Factors and Farming Systems on Soil Properties and Plant Productivity)
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