Horticulturae

50 pages, 3318 KB

Open AccessReview

Advances in Citrus Fruit Set and Development: A Review

by Manuel Agustí, Carmina Reig, Amparo Martínez-Fuentes and Carlos Mesejo

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010018 - 24 Dec 2025

Citrus species develop fruits through both sexual reproduction and parthenocarpy, following a growth pattern with an initial exponential phase dominated by cell division in the ovary wall, followed by a linear phase driven by cell expansion in juice vesicles. Sustained carbohydrate supply is [...] Read more.

Citrus species develop fruits through both sexual reproduction and parthenocarpy, following a growth pattern with an initial exponential phase dominated by cell division in the ovary wall, followed by a linear phase driven by cell expansion in juice vesicles. Sustained carbohydrate supply is essential to support the metabolic energy required for these processes, which are tightly regulated by hormonal signaling pathways involving gibberellins (GAs), auxins (IAA), cytokinins, and abscisic acid (ABA). Recent studies across cultivars have identified genes associated with hormone biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, cell cycle regulation, and abscission in ovule and pericarp tissues. Manipulation of these hormones through targeted treatments and cultural practices has shown potential to enhance fruit set and growth. Notably, exogenous GA₃ application promotes fruit set in parthenocarpic cultivars by upregulating GA20ox2/GA3ox and CYCA1.1, whereas synthetic auxins enhance fruit enlargement by improving assimilate partitioning and water uptake. Optimizing such treatments, however, requires a comprehensive understanding of physiological, environmental, and agronomic factors influencing fruit development. This review summarizes recent advances in hormonal and molecular regulation of citrus fruit set and developments, assesses applied strategies to improve productivity, and identifies current knowledge gaps needed to refine biotechnological and management aimed at enhancing both yield and fruit quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Cultivation Strategies for Citrus Orchards: Enhancing Yield and Quality)

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21 pages, 3446 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Proximal Sensing Data for Assessing Wood Distillate Effects in Strawberry Growth and Fruit Development

by Valeria Palchetti, Sara Beltrami, Francesca Alderotti, Maddalena Grieco, Giovanni Marino, Giovanni Agati, Ermes Lo Piccolo, Mauro Centritto, Francesco Ferrini, Antonella Gori, Vincenzo Montesano and Cecilia Brunetti

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010017 - 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa (Weston) Rozier) is a high-value crop whose market success depends on fruit quality traits such as sweetness, firmness, and pigmentation. In sustainable agriculture, wood distillates are gaining interest as natural biostimulants. This study evaluated the effects of foliar [...] Read more.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa (Weston) Rozier) is a high-value crop whose market success depends on fruit quality traits such as sweetness, firmness, and pigmentation. In sustainable agriculture, wood distillates are gaining interest as natural biostimulants. This study evaluated the effects of foliar application of two commercial wood distillates (WD1 and WD2) and one produced in a pilot plant at the Institute for Bioeconomy of the National Research Council of Italy (IBE-CNR) on strawberry physiology, fruit yield, and fruit quality under greenhouse conditions. Non-destructive ecophysiological measurements were integrated using optical sensors for proximal phenotyping, enabling continuous monitoring of plant physiology and fruit ripening. Leaf gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence were measured with a portable photosynthesis system, while vegetation indices and pigment-related parameters were obtained using spectroradiometric sensors and fluorescence devices. To assess the functional relevance of vegetation indices, a linear regression analysis was performed between net photosynthetic rate (A) and the Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI), confirming a significant positive correlation and supporting PRI as a proxy for photosynthetic efficiency. All treatments improved photosynthetic efficiency during fruiting, with significant increases in net photosynthetic rate, quantum yield of photosystem II, and electron transport rate compared to control plants. IBE-CNR and WD2 enhanced fruit yield, while all treatments increased fruit soluble solids content. Non-invasive monitoring enabled real-time assessment of physiological responses and pigment accumulation, confirming the potential of wood distillates as biostimulants and the value of advanced sensing technologies for sustainable, data-driven crop management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimization of Horticultural Plant Production in Controlled Environments Using Proximal Sensing)

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15 pages, 2313 KB

Open AccessArticle

Variations in Nutritional Composition of Walnut Kernels Across Different Elevations in Chongqing Region, China

by Jiajia Tang, Ao Li, Long Tong, Xinying Ji, Yi Su, Leyuan Sun, Ruining Nie, Chengxu Wu, Xiuzhen Li and Junpei Zhang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010016 - 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is an important economic and oil-bearing tree species, and the nutritional quality of its kernels is influenced by multiple environmental factors. Elevation is an ecological gradient that integratively reflects variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and light [...] Read more.

Walnut (Juglans regia L.) is an important economic and oil-bearing tree species, and the nutritional quality of its kernels is influenced by multiple environmental factors. Elevation is an ecological gradient that integratively reflects variations in environmental conditions such as temperature and light availability and shows a certain degree of correlation with kernel nutritional quality. The aim of this study was to clarify the regulatory effect of elevation on the nutritional quality of walnut kernels in Chongqing and to optimize the layout of high-quality walnut production areas. This study used 181 walnut germplasm resources collected from 16 natural populations (production areas) in Chongqing. Six elevation ranges were defined (I: 200–600 m, II: 600–900 m, III: 900–1200 m, IV: 1200–1400 m, V: 1400–1600 m, VI: 1600–1800 m), and twelve nutritional traits of walnut kernels were systematically analyzed, including total fat, protein, soluble sugar, tannin, saturated fatty acids (stearic acid, palmitic acid, arachidic acid), and unsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, cis-11-eicosenoic acid, linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid). The results showed that the fat content of walnut kernels was generally higher than 60%, with the highest value in zone VI (62.93%). The protein content was the highest in zone III (17.71%) and the lowest in zone VI (16.06%). Soluble sugar and tannin contents were relatively low, both peaking in zone II (3.10% and 10.85%, respectively). The overall content of saturated fatty acids was low, being slightly higher in zone II, with little variation among components across elevations. Among monounsaturated fatty acids, oleic acid was dominant, showing a decreasing–increasing trend with rising elevation, with the lowest value in zone II (20.98%) and the highest in zone VI (26.93%), while palmitoleic acid and cis-11-eicosenoic acid were maintained at low levels. Polyunsaturated fatty acids were dominated by linoleic acid, ranging from 51.22% to 61.04%, with the highest content in zone II and the lowest in zone VI. Comprehensive evaluation and cluster analysis grouped the six elevation zones into three categories, with zone II showing the best nutritional quality, particularly in terms of soluble sugar, stearic acid, and linoleic acid, while zone I had the lowest score. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the selection of high-quality walnut production areas and the precision cultivation of nutrient-rich walnut fruits, as well as important data support for the scientific planning and high-quality development of the walnut industry in Chongqing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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33 pages, 5748 KB

Open AccessArticle

Linking Grain Mineral Content to Pest and Disease Resistance, Agro-Morphological Traits, and Bioactive Compounds in Peruvian Coffee Germplasm

by Ester Choque-Incaluque, César Cueva-Carhuatanta, Ronald Pio Carrera-Rojo, Jazmín Maravi Loyola, Marián Hermoza-Gutiérrez, Hector Cántaro-Segura, Elizabeth Fernández-Huaytalla, Dina L. Gutiérrez-Reynoso, Fredy Quispe-Jacobo and Karina Ccapa-Ramirez

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010015 - 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

Mineral composition modulates plant health, agro-morphological attributes, and functional quality in coffee, yet large-scale evaluations remain limited. In 150 Coffea arabica L. accessions, we quantified grain minerals (Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn); resistance to coffee leaf miner (CLM), coffee [...] Read more.

Mineral composition modulates plant health, agro-morphological attributes, and functional quality in coffee, yet large-scale evaluations remain limited. In 150 Coffea arabica L. accessions, we quantified grain minerals (Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn); resistance to coffee leaf miner (CLM), coffee berry borer (CBB), and coffee leaf rust (CLR); agro-morphological traits; bioactive compounds (phenolics, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, trigonelline, caffeine); and antioxidant capacity (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP). Mn and Zn were associated with greater resistance to CBB and CLM, whereas P and Ca related with lower susceptibility to CLR; a P–Zn antagonism emerged as a critical nutritional axis. Phosphorus was linked to larger size and higher 100-bean mass; Ca and Mg to greater fruit number and fruit mass per plant; and Fe to improved filling and higher 100-bean mass in parchment coffee. For bioactive compounds, P and K were positively associated with total phenolics, total flavonoids, caffeine, and ABTS/FRAP antioxidant activity, while trigonelline and chlorogenic acid correlated positively with the micronutrients Zn, Cu, and Fe. Cluster analysis resolved groups associated with resistance, Zn/Fe biofortification, productivity, and functional quality. PER1002287, PER1002216, PER1002207, and PER1002197 emerged as promising accessions balancing plant health, yield, and phytochemical quality. Overall, grain mineral composition is linked to plant health, productivity, and functional quality in coffee, providing a foundation for precision nutrient management and breeding programs aimed at resilient and high–value-added coffee. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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14 pages, 5312 KB

Open AccessArticle

Heavy Fruit Load Inhibits the Development of Citrus Summer Shoots Primarily Through Competing for Carbohydrates

by Yin Luo, Yu-Jia Li, Yong-Zhong Liu, Yan-Mei Xiao, Hui-Fen Li and Shariq Mahmood Alam

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010014 - 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

The excessive and random production of summer shoots poses significant challenges to pest and disease management and the improvement of fruit quality in citrus orchards. Although heavy fruit load has been observed to reduce summer shoot numbers, the mechanism is not well understood. [...] Read more.

The excessive and random production of summer shoots poses significant challenges to pest and disease management and the improvement of fruit quality in citrus orchards. Although heavy fruit load has been observed to reduce summer shoot numbers, the mechanism is not well understood. This study combined a field investigation with a de-fruiting experiment to demonstrate that significant negative correlation exists between fruit load and summer shoot numbers in citrus orchard. Metabolomic analysis further indicated that fruits at the cell expansion stage function as dominant carbohydrate sinks, attracting more soluble sugars. De-fruiting significantly elevated sugar content and upregulated the transcript levels of sink strength-related genes (Sucrose synthase, CsSUS4/5/6) by more than 3.0-fold in the axillary buds. Additionally, exogenous application of sugar-related DAMs (differentially accumulated metabolites), such as sucrose, significantly promoted axillary bud outgrowth. Taken together, our findings confirm that heavy fruit load suppresses shoot branching, primarily through competing for soluble sugars. This provides a physiological basis for managing summer shoots by regulating fruit load, offering a practical strategy to enhance citrus orchard management and the effectiveness of pest and disease control programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Physiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology)

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23 pages, 12600 KB

Open AccessArticle

Canopy Water Loss and Physiological Water-Use Responses of Xerophytic Shrubs Under Wet Conditions on the Northern Loess Plateau

by Sheng Wang, Na Yang, Jun Fan and Chuan Yuan

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010013 - 24 Dec 2025

Abstract

Understanding how cultivated xerophytic shrubs physiologically regulate canopy water loss under anomalously wet conditions is crucial for predicting ecohydrological responses and for providing practical guidance in landscape restoration under the ongoing warming–wetting trend on the northern Loess Plateau. This study tested hypotheses concerning [...] Read more.

Understanding how cultivated xerophytic shrubs physiologically regulate canopy water loss under anomalously wet conditions is crucial for predicting ecohydrological responses and for providing practical guidance in landscape restoration under the ongoing warming–wetting trend on the northern Loess Plateau. This study tested hypotheses concerning the hierarchy of atmospheric and soil-water controls on canopy transpiration (E_c), stomatal conductance (g_s), the strength of canopy–atmosphere coupling, and species-specific soil-water sensitivities and water-use strategies in Caragana korshinskii and Salix psammophila. Concurrent measurements of branch-level sap flow, meteorological variables, and soil water content (SWC) at multiple depths were conducted in two adjacent stands during the wet season of a climatically wet year (July–September 2017). Meteorological factors, particularly vapor pressure deficit (VPD), were the dominant drivers of daily E_c and g_s, whereas SWC exerted secondary but species-specific influences. Both shrubs were strongly coupled to the atmosphere, with consistently low decoupling coefficients (Ω ≈ 0.11–0.15) on daily scales. C. korshinskii maintained stable water use through access to deeper soil, whereas S. psammophila responded sensitively to fluctuations in shallow SWC. These contrasting patterns indicate depth-partitioned water-use strategies and a context-dependent continuum between isohydric and anisohydric behavior rather than fixed species traits. The findings support improved parameterization of shrub water use in ecohydrological models, more effective water-use management, and informed species selection and nursery practices for landscape restoration in semi-arid regions experiencing warming–wetting climatic shifts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)

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19 pages, 10671 KB

Open AccessArticle

Screening for Variation in Leaf Elemental Content Between Croatian Autochthonous Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) Accessions

by Zoran Užila, Marko Černe, Boris Lazarević, Mario Franić, Bernard Prekalj, Igor Palčić, Nikola Major, Dean Ban, Milan Poljak and Smiljana Goreta Ban

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010012 - 23 Dec 2025

Abstract

Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) has a long history of cultivation, and its importance as a source of mineral nutrients has received particular attention. This study aims to screen the variation in elemental leaf accumulation of 23 Croatian autochthonous kale [...] Read more.

Kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) has a long history of cultivation, and its importance as a source of mineral nutrients has received particular attention. This study aims to screen the variation in elemental leaf accumulation of 23 Croatian autochthonous kale accessions from the Adriatic basin. A two-factorial experiment with harvest time and kale accession as the main factors was conducted under field conditions. Further, the leaf elemental contents were measured and inter-elemental correlations computed. An analysis of the data revealed that IPT 418 accumulated the highest contents of Ca, Ni, and Li, while IPT 401 was most effective in Mg and Zn accumulation. The accessions IPT 411, IPT 384, and IPT 390 had the highest amounts of P, Mn, and Cr, respectively. Considering the range within the highest and lowest content, the accumulation varied 4-fold for Ca; 1.8-fold for Mg; 1.5-fold for P; 1.5-fold for Mn; 2.5-fold for Ni; 2-fold for Zn; 2.2-fold for Cr; and 1.7-fold for Li. According to the correlation matrix, positive correlations in elemental phytoaccumulation were found between macro- and micronutrients, while negative correlations were observed among macronutrients in most cases. In conclusion, the accessions most efficient in accumulating macro- and micronutrients may be potentially used to address nutrient malnutrition and produce more nutritional kale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Driving Sustainable Agriculture Through Scientific Innovation)

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40 pages, 3222 KB

Open AccessReview

Biotechnological Advances for Enhancing European Chestnut Resistance to Pests, Diseases, and Climate Change

by Patrícia Fernandes, Susana Serrazina, Vera Pavese, Angela Martín, Claudia Mattioni, MaTeresa Martínez, Pablo Piñeiro, Margarita Fraga, Beatriz Cuenca, Andrea Moglia, Rita Lourenço Costa and Elena Corredoira

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010011 - 23 Dec 2025

Abstract

Biotechnological tools have emerged as key alternatives for the protection, improvement, and sustainable use of forest species. This paper analyzes the main biotechnological strategies applied to the European chestnut, a species of significant ecological, economic, and cultural importance in many temperate regions. However, [...] Read more.

Biotechnological tools have emerged as key alternatives for the protection, improvement, and sustainable use of forest species. This paper analyzes the main biotechnological strategies applied to the European chestnut, a species of significant ecological, economic, and cultural importance in many temperate regions. However, in recent decades, it has been seriously threatened by various factors, including devastating diseases such as chestnut blight and ink disease, as well as the impacts of climate change. First, classical and assisted breeding techniques are discussed, including controlled hybridization and the use of molecular markers to accelerate the selection of genotypes of interest. In the field of molecular biotechnology, studies related to the identification of key genes, the development of genetic markers (e.g., SSRs and SNPs), and the omics characterization of chestnut are reviewed. The use of micropropagation techniques for the clonal multiplication of elite individuals is also included. Furthermore, advances in genetic modifications are explored, highlighting the introduction of resistance genes through transgenic and cisgenic approaches, as well as emerging technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9. In the future, the integration of classical breeding with advanced genomics will enable the precise selection and accelerated development of European chestnut varieties, combining traditional trait improvement with genomic tools such as marker-assisted selection, genomic prediction, and gene editing to enhance disease resistance and climate resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Horticulturae—Recent Outcomes and Perspectives)

23 pages, 6313 KB

Open AccessArticle

Four Petal-Specific TPS Drive Nocturnal Terpene Scent in Jasminum sambac

by Yuan Yuan, Li Hu, Xian He, Jinan Li, Chao Wan, Yue Zhang, Yuting Wang, Wei Wang and Binghua Wu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010010 - 23 Dec 2025

Abstract

Floral volatile terpenoids are known to play important roles in plant pollination biology by attracting animal pollinators, repelling antagonists, and enhancing resistance to potential microbial pathogens. The terpenoid blend emitted by a flower is usually plant-lineage specific and is primarily determined by a [...] Read more.

Floral volatile terpenoids are known to play important roles in plant pollination biology by attracting animal pollinators, repelling antagonists, and enhancing resistance to potential microbial pathogens. The terpenoid blend emitted by a flower is usually plant-lineage specific and is primarily determined by a set of versatile terpene synthases (TPSs), which catalyze the final step of diverse terpenoid synthesis. The strongly scented flower of Jasminum sambac (L.) Aiton emits linalool and α-farnesene, which dominate the nocturnal floral VOCs, yet the corresponding TPSs have not been identified. Here, we show that four TPS enzymes are responsible for the synthesis of a mixture of volatile terpenoids in the flower, based on their highly correlated and almost exclusive expression in the petal, as well as their enzymatic characterizations in vitro and in Nicotiana benthamiana Domin. JsTPS01 (TPS-a) acts as a sesquiterpene synthase, producing τ-cadinol in yeast at levels that mirror its rhythmic expression in petals. JsTPS02 (TPS-b) carries a plastid-targeting transit peptide, localizes to chloroplasts/plastids, and converts geranyl diphosphate (GPP) to linalool with high affinity (K_m = 28.2 ± 3.4 µM). JsTPS03 is a TPS-b clade member that can convert farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to farnesol with a K_m of 14.4 ± 5.9 μM in an in vitro assay using isolated yeast vehicles. JsTPS04 (TPS-e/f) exhibits dual targeting—cytosolic in protoplasts of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh, but plastidic in J. sambac petals—and functions as a bifunctional mono-/sesqui-TPS, forming linalool from GPP (K_m = 2.5 ± 0.3 µM) and trans-nerolidol from FPP (K_m = 7.6 ± 0.6 µM). Transient expression in N. benthamiana leaves further confirmed its in-planta linalool production. Collectively, we identified four preferentially expressed terpene synthases that contribute to the production of linalool, τ-cadinol, trans-nerolidol, and farnesol in J. sambac. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Biology for Stress Management in Horticultural Plants)

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14 pages, 2708 KB

Open AccessArticle

Resistance of Mulberry Fruit Sclerotiniosis Pathogens to Thiophanate-Methyl and Boscalid

by Xiangmo Chen, Tao Chen, Qianqian Zhang, Chengxin Mao and Chuanqing Zhang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010009 (registering DOI) - 22 Dec 2025

Abstract

Fruit sclerotiniosis (FS) is becoming the most important disease in recently transformed mulberry fruit gardens (TFMGs), where traditional production of mulberry leaves for sericulture takes place; FS has a long history as a secondary disease in Zhejiang province, China. Thiophanate-methyl and boscalid are [...] Read more.

Fruit sclerotiniosis (FS) is becoming the most important disease in recently transformed mulberry fruit gardens (TFMGs), where traditional production of mulberry leaves for sericulture takes place; FS has a long history as a secondary disease in Zhejiang province, China. Thiophanate-methyl and boscalid are the two main fungicides adopted for the management of FS in these gardens. A decrease in efficacy has been observed by growers and local technicians. For this new situation regarding TFMGs, however, the resistance status of them has not yet been investigated and reported. In the present study, pathogens were isolated from diseased fruits and identified through a combination of morphological characteristics with ITS sequence analysis. Results showed that the pathogens included Scleromitrula shiraiana and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. All isolates of S. shiraiana (n = 12) and S. sclerotiorum (n = 12) were sensitive to boscalid, and no resistance was detected. The S. shiraiana sub-population was sensitive to thiophanate-methyl, whereas the S. sclerotiorum sub-population developed resistance with a frequency of 33.3%. Thiophanate-methyl-resistant (Th^R) S. sclerotiorum grew faster at a low temperature (15 °C) than sensitive ones. These Th^R exhibited negative cross-resistance to diethofencarb, as previously observed in Botrytis cinerea, and showed no cross-resistance to procymidone or boscalid. Further studies indicated that resistance to thiophanate-methyl is caused by a novel double mutation (E198V+V349I) in the β-tubulin of S. sclerotiorum. This E198V+V349I mutation produced structural alterations in the β-tubulin protein, the action target of thiophanate-methyl, leading to reorientation of the substrate binding site and conformational change in the active pocket. In conclusion, avoiding the sole use of thiophanate-methyl on TFMGs is necessary. Application of boscalid in combination or rotation with other fungicides without cross-resistance is recommended for the management of FS in TFMG practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Pathology and Disease Management (PPDM))

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28 pages, 2084 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Multimodal Deep Learning Framework for Intelligent Pest and Disease Monitoring in Smart Horticultural Production Systems

by Chuhuang Zhou, Yuhan Cao, Bihong Ming, Jingwen Luo, Fangrou Xu, Jiamin Zhang and Min Dong

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010008 - 21 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study addressed the core challenge of intelligent pest and disease monitoring and early warning in smart horticultural production by proposing a multimodal deep learning framework based on multi-parameter environmental sensor arrays. The framework integrates visual information with electrical signals to overcome the [...] Read more.

This study addressed the core challenge of intelligent pest and disease monitoring and early warning in smart horticultural production by proposing a multimodal deep learning framework based on multi-parameter environmental sensor arrays. The framework integrates visual information with electrical signals to overcome the inherent limitations of conventional single-modality approaches in terms of real-time capability, stability, and early detection performance. A long-term field experiment was conducted over 18 months in the Hetao Irrigation District of Bayannur, Inner Mongolia, using three representative horticultural crops—grape (Vitis vinifera), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum)—to construct a multimodal dataset comprising illumination intensity, temperature, humidity, gas concentration, and high-resolution imagery, with a total of more than

2.6 \times 10^{6}

recorded samples. The proposed framework consists of a lightweight convolution–Transformer hybrid encoder for electrical signal representation, a cross-modal feature alignment module, and an early-warning decision module, enabling dynamic spatiotemporal modeling and complementary feature fusion under complex field conditions. Experimental results demonstrated that the proposed model significantly outperformed both unimodal and traditional fusion methods, achieving an accuracy of

0.921

, a precision of

0.935

, a recall of

0.912

, an F1-score of

0.923

, and an area under curve (AUC) of

0.957

, confirming its superior recognition stability and early-warning capability. Ablation experiments further revealed that the electrical feature encoder, cross-modal alignment module, and early-warning module each played a critical role in enhancing performance. This research provides a low-cost, scalable, and energy-efficient solution for precise pest and disease management in intelligent horticulture, supporting efficient monitoring and predictive decision-making in greenhouses, orchards, and facility-based production systems. It offers a novel technological pathway and theoretical foundation for artificial-intelligence-driven sustainable horticultural production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Horticulture Production)

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22 pages, 389 KB

Open AccessReview

Advancements in Genetic Transformation of Grapevine (Vitis spp.)

by Wenbo Liang, Xiaoyue Wang, Huiling Wang, Ailing Yan, Jiancheng Ren, Zhenhua Liu and Lei Sun

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010007 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Traditional methods for grapevine (Vitis spp.) breeding are marked by lengthy breeding cycles with usually low efficiency, rendering them inadequate for the demands of the rapidly evolving grapevine industry. While grapevine genetic transformation holds significant potential for improvement, its application is hampered [...] Read more.

Traditional methods for grapevine (Vitis spp.) breeding are marked by lengthy breeding cycles with usually low efficiency, rendering them inadequate for the demands of the rapidly evolving grapevine industry. While grapevine genetic transformation holds significant potential for improvement, its application is hampered by bottlenecks in efficiency, speed, and genotype dependence. In this context, this review systematically examines the factors influencing and challenges associated with key steps in grapevine genetic transformation—specifically, gene delivery and plant regeneration. It posits that the development and application of marker genes, the exploration and utilization of developmental regulators, and the establishment of novel genetic transformation systems are effective strategies to overcome current limitations. In this paper, we present a foundation and methodological guidance for creating efficient and stable genetic transformation systems for grapevine, with significant theoretical and practical implications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

19 pages, 8323 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Copy SINE Transposons Facilitate Broad Ecological Adaptation in White Clover (Trifolium repens)

by Wei Hong, Meng Wang, Jun Tian, Xiaoyue Zhu, Ruixin Zhang, Changhong Guo and Yongjun Shu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010006 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Recent advances in plant genomics have characterized transposable elements (TEs) as key contributors to genome structure and gene regulation. This study focuses on the remarkably high abundance of short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) in the genus Trifolium. Using the allotetraploid horticultural plant [...] Read more.

Recent advances in plant genomics have characterized transposable elements (TEs) as key contributors to genome structure and gene regulation. This study focuses on the remarkably high abundance of short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) in the genus Trifolium. Using the allotetraploid horticultural plant white clover (Trifolium repens L.) as the study organism, we systematically investigate lineage-specific SINE amplification, genomic distribution, insertional preferences, and their regulatory effects on gene expression. Our analyses reveal that SINEs are significantly more abundant in Trifolium than in other angiosperms. Comparative genomic analyses further indicate that SINE accumulation is closely associated with polyploidization and domestication. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses demonstrate that SINEs are preferentially enriched in stress responsive genes. Expression analyses further showed that, within duplicated gene pairs, genes with SINE insertions in their upstream promoter regions exhibit significantly higher transcript levels compared with genes without such insertions. Under drought, cold, and cadmium stress, these SINE-associated genes exhibit upregulation, and our data analysis shows a strong correlation between the presence of SINE insertions and stress-induced upregulation of gene expression. This study demonstrates that SINE insertions in upstream promoter regions modulate transcriptional regulatory networks involved in stress responses, contributing to broad ecological adaptation in white clover. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genetics of Ornamental Plants Under Abiotic Stress: Current Insights and Future Perspectives)

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25 pages, 3827 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling the Formation Mechanism of Wax Powder on Broccoli Curds: An Integrated Physiological, Transcriptomic and Targeted Metabolomic Approach

by Qingqing Shao, Jianting Liu, Mindong Chen, Huangfang Lin, Saichuan Cheng, Biying Lin, Boyin Qiu, Honghui Lin and Haisheng Zhu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010005 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

As a vital appearance quality trait of broccoli, curd-surface wax powder not only affects its commercial value but also plays a key role in plant resistance to abiotic stresses. However, its formation mechanism remains unclear. Using low-wax variety CK (‘QH18’) and high-wax variety [...] Read more.

As a vital appearance quality trait of broccoli, curd-surface wax powder not only affects its commercial value but also plays a key role in plant resistance to abiotic stresses. However, its formation mechanism remains unclear. Using low-wax variety CK (‘QH18’) and high-wax variety T1 (‘QHMS4’) as materials, this study systematically elucidated the molecular mechanism of wax powder formation via physiological indexes, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), targeted metabolomics, and transcriptomics. Determination of fatty acid (FA) content in broccoli flower bud tissue showed a close association between FA content and wax deposition. SEM observation revealed that T1 had significantly denser wax crystals, mainly granular, than CK. Targeted metabolomics identified 25 fatty acids in the two varieties. And the linolenic and palmitic acids, with high content and significant differences, may be key metabolites regulating wax synthesis. Integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics indicated that BolfabG, BolLACS, BolKCS1, BolKCS2 and BolMAH1 genes are involved in wax biosynthesis. Moreover, AP2/ERF-ERF transcription factor (TF)-encoding genes (BolERF018, BolERF1F.1, BolERF1F.2 and BolERF1C) played the primary role in regulating wax biosynthesis, followed by NAC (BolNAC62.1), MYB (BolMYB44), and MADS-MIKC(BolPISTILLATA). These TFs may regulate BolfabG, BolLACS, BolKCS1, BolACOX2 and BolACAA1 to affect linolenic and palmitic acid balance, altering wax precursor synthesis and accumulation, and finally leading to differences in wax morphology and content. This study reveals a “Transcription Factors–Differentially Expressed Genes–Differentially Accumulated Metabolites–Fatty Acids” (TFs-DEGs-DAMs-FA) network, providing a basis for understanding broccoli wax formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics and Genetic Diversity in Vegetable Crops)

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21 pages, 3438 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physicochemical Properties of Biochar Produced from Grapevine-Pruning Residues of 12 Cultivars

by Danko Cvitan, Dominik Anđelini, Melissa Prelac, Qaiser Javed, Zoran Užila, Igor Pasković, Nikola Major, Marko Černe, Smiljana Goreta Ban, Marijan Bubola, Ana Jeromel, Tomislav Karažija, Marko Petek, Ivan Nemet and Igor Palčić

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010004 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

The valorization of grapevine pruning residues through pyrolysis provides a sustainable approach to agricultural waste management, producing biochar with agricultural use potential and carbon sink functionality. This study investigated pruning residues from 12 grapevine cultivars to evaluate the cultivar effects on biochar properties. [...] Read more.

The valorization of grapevine pruning residues through pyrolysis provides a sustainable approach to agricultural waste management, producing biochar with agricultural use potential and carbon sink functionality. This study investigated pruning residues from 12 grapevine cultivars to evaluate the cultivar effects on biochar properties. Samples were collected along the Croatian coast from Istria to Dalmatia and included six indigenous cultivars (Malvazija istarska, Pošip, Maraština, Teran, Plavina, and Plavac mali) and six introduced cultivars (Chardonnay, Pinot blanc, Sauvignon blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah). For each cultivar, residues were collected from three distinct vineyards with three replicates per vineyard. Pyrolysis was conducted in a muffle furnace at 400 °C. The pruning residues showed acidic pH (4.79–5.45), moderate electrical conductivity (1694–2390 µS cm⁻¹), and ash contents of 2.65–3.49% among all cultivars. Significant differences were observed among cultivars in residue carbon content and ash fraction, which were reflected in the resulting biochar. Biochar yield ranged from 32% to 35%, while pH values were alkaline, ranging from 10.20 to 11.13. Total carbon increased from 43.77 to 45.36% in grapevine-pruning residues to 65.88–71.57% in biochar. FT-IR spectra revealed cultivar-dependent variation in aromatic C=C intensification, while SEM analysis indicated differences in pore abundance and surface area (1.63–4.13 m² g⁻¹) between cultivars. These results demonstrate that carbon-dense cultivars produced biochars with greater structural stability, indicating enhanced resistance to decomposition. Spectroscopic and microscopic analyses consistently showed increased aromatic condensation, reduced aliphatic functionality, and greater porosity following pyrolysis. These cultivar-dependent differences highlight pruning residues as a chemically heterogeneous but predictable feedstock, with biochar properties primarily governed by the intrinsic characteristics of the source material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Driving Sustainable Agriculture Through Scientific Innovation)

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19 pages, 14769 KB

Open AccessArticle

Overexpression of IlMYB108 from Iris laevigata Confers Enhanced Drought and Salt Tolerance in Nicotiana tabacum

by Zhaoqian Niu, Gongfa Shi, Zhengyide Wang, Lijuan Fan and Ling Wang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010003 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Drought and salinity are critical abiotic stresses that constrain plant growth. Although MYB transcription factors mediate plant responses to abiotic stresses, their functions in the monocot I. laevigata remain unexplored. Here, we identified a nuclear-localized gene, IlMYB108, which was rapidly upregulated under [...] Read more.

Drought and salinity are critical abiotic stresses that constrain plant growth. Although MYB transcription factors mediate plant responses to abiotic stresses, their functions in the monocot I. laevigata remain unexplored. Here, we identified a nuclear-localized gene, IlMYB108, which was rapidly upregulated under NaCl and PEG-6000 treatments. Overexpression of IlMYB108 in tobacco enhanced root growth under salt and drought conditions. At the seedling stage, transgenic lines maintained higher leaf growth rates and plant height with reduced wilting during 14 days of continuous stress. Physiologically, transgenic plants exhibited a higher net photosynthetic rate (Pn), maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), and chlorophyll content, alongside lower stomatal conductance (Gs), intercellular CO₂ concentration (Ci), and transpiration rate (Tr). They also accumulated less malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide anion (O₂⁻), and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which was attributed to enhanced activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD), as confirmed by p-Nitro-Blue tetrazolium chloride (NBT) and 3,3′-diaminobenzidine tetrahydrochloride (DAB) staining. Moreover, IlMYB108 up-regulated stress-responsive and antioxidant genes. Collectively, IlMYB108 functions as a key gene that enhances tobacco tolerance to salt and drought stress by coordinating root development, photosynthetic efficiency, water balance and antioxidant defense, thereby providing a valuable genetic resource for breeding stress-resilient plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)

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20 pages, 604 KB

Open AccessReview

Semiochemicals Used by Insect Parasitoids and Hyperparasitoids in Complex Chemical Environments and Their Application in Insect Pest Management

by Yalan Sun, Caihong Tian, Pengjun Xu, Junfeng Dong and Shaoli Wang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010002 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Insect parasitoids are key biological agents within terrestrial ecosystems, offering a promising avenue for controlling insect pests. Hyperparasitoids are a group of insects that lay their eggs in or on the body of parasitoid hosts, which can greatly hamper the effectiveness of parasitoids. [...] Read more.

Insect parasitoids are key biological agents within terrestrial ecosystems, offering a promising avenue for controlling insect pests. Hyperparasitoids are a group of insects that lay their eggs in or on the body of parasitoid hosts, which can greatly hamper the effectiveness of parasitoids. To optimize their reproductive success, adult parasitoids/hyperparasitoids must find sufficient food sources and mate partners (when they do not reproduce parthenogenetically) and locate suitable hosts for their offspring. To complete these tasks, parasitoids largely rely on their ability to detect relevant chemical cues (semiochemicals or infochemicals). In the last three decades, the identities of semiochemicals and their ethological significance have been widely characterized, and the possibility of using these chemical cues in insect pest management has received a lot of attention. Insects have evolved a highly sensitive and sophisticated chemosensory system adept at navigating complex and dynamic chemical environments. In this review, we first summarize the semiochemicals used by insect parasitoids, primarily including semiochemicals involved in food location, host foraging, and mate finding, while also addressing semiochemicals employed by hyperparasitoids. Next, we discuss recent progress in elucidating the chemosensory mechanisms underlying parasitoid responses to semiochemicals, with a focus on olfactory and gustatory pathways. Finally, we evaluate the potential applications of semiochemicals in pest management, highlighting the roles of parasitoids and hyperparasitoids. This paper aims to establish a theoretical framework for the effective employment of parasitoids in biological control of insect pests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pest Management: Challenges, Strategies, and Solutions)

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14 pages, 2977 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of an Alternating Magnetic Field on the Postharvest Quality of Cynanchum thesioides (Freyn) K. Schum

by Likun Cheng, Yuxue Bai, Jie Fang, Yakun Zhang, Yueying Yun, Yan Ren, Fucheng Guo, Jin Jia and Guoze Wang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010001 - 19 Dec 2025

Abstract

Cynanchum thesioides (C. thesioides) is a sand-dwelling edible and medicinal plant whose fruit softens rapidly after harvest, limiting its storage life. In this study, we investigated the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of alternating magnetic field (AMF) treatment as a non-thermal and [...] Read more.

Cynanchum thesioides (C. thesioides) is a sand-dwelling edible and medicinal plant whose fruit softens rapidly after harvest, limiting its storage life. In this study, we investigated the efficacy and underlying mechanisms of alternating magnetic field (AMF) treatment as a non-thermal and eco-friendly preservation method for C. thesioides fruit. Freshly harvested fruits were subjected to AMF at varying field intensities (1.07–1.54 mT) and exposure durations (5–25 min). We monitored the physiological indicators (respiration rate, membrane permeability, and firmness) during storage to determine the optimal conditions and performed transcriptome sequencing to identify differentially expressed genes, with qRT-PCR validation of two key cell wall-degrading genes (β-glucosidase (BG) and polygalacturonase (PG)). The results showed that AMF treatment at 1.28 mT for 15 min best maintained the postharvest quality, significantly reducing respiration and membrane leakage while delaying firmness loss. Transcriptomic analysis identified 2480 differentially expressed genes enriched in hormone signaling and cell wall metabolism pathways, and qRT-PCR confirmed that AMF downregulated BG and PG expression, suggesting suppressed cell wall degradation and delayed softening. In conclusion, AMF treatment effectively prolonged the shelf life of C. thesioides by modulating the expression of cell wall-related genes. These findings provide novel insight into magnetic field-induced fruit preservation and support AMF as a green non-thermal postharvest technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Postharvest Fresh-Keeping Technology and Metabolomics of Horticultural Plants—Second Edition)

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19 pages, 4737 KB

Open AccessArticle

Acid Electrolyzed Water Priming Induces Phenylpropane Metabolism and Antioxidant Enzyme System to Promote Seed Germination of Celery

by Yi Zhu, Yufan Sun, Haolong Li, Yubin Lan, Danfeng Huang and Shuo Zhao

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1543; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121543 - 18 Dec 2025

Abstract

Seed germination of celery (Apium graveolens L.) is notoriously slow and asynchronous, which severely constrains uniform seedling establishment and crop yield. Seed priming is an effective technique to improve germination, and acidic electrolyzed water, characterized by low pH and high oxidation–reduction potential, [...] Read more.

Seed germination of celery (Apium graveolens L.) is notoriously slow and asynchronous, which severely constrains uniform seedling establishment and crop yield. Seed priming is an effective technique to improve germination, and acidic electrolyzed water, characterized by low pH and high oxidation–reduction potential, has emerged as a novel priming agent. However, the effect of acid electrolyzed water priming (EWP) on celery seed germination and the underlying mechanisms still need to be explored. The present study aimed to investigate the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which EWP promotes celery seed germination, with a focus on the roles of the phenylpropane metabolism and the antioxidant enzyme system. Celery seeds were treated with EWP, hydro-priming (HYD), and untreated (CK). It was found that the EWP treatment significantly enhanced germination characteristics compared to both CK and HYD. Transcriptome analysis revealed that EWP triggered more extensive transcriptional reprogramming than HYD, and EWP specifically enriched “Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis” and “Flavonoid biosynthesis” pathways, downregulating upstream genes (PAL, 4CL) while upregulating downstream genes (CCR, CHI, F3H) in the phenylpropane pathway. Physiologically, EWP significantly increased CHI activity and the contents of total phenols and flavonoids at all sampling time points, and enhanced the activities of SOD, POD, CAT, and APX. Consequently, the DPPH and FRAP free radical scavenging capacities were significantly strengthened in EWP-treated seeds. In conclusion, it is believed that EWP activation promotes celery seed germination by coordinating the phenylpropane pathway and antioxidant enzyme system, ensuring effective radical scavenging activities and cell protection. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the application of EWP and highlight the potential as a novel priming technology for celery and other horticultural crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Biology in Horticulture: From Dormancy to Germination)

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