Horticulturae

24 pages, 1119 KB

Open AccessReview

From Garden to Weed: Invasive Ornamental Plants in Europe and Emerging Challenges for Biodiversity, Agroecosystems, Agriculture and Management

by Nebojša Nikolić, Marco Sozzi and Giampaolo Zanin

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 257; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020257 - 23 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2041

Abstract

Ornamental horticulture represents one of the dominant pathways for the introduction of alien plant species and has played a central role in shaping current and future invasion dynamics. Many ornamental plants escape cultivation after long lag phases, driven by high propagule pressure, human-mediated [...] Read more.

Ornamental horticulture represents one of the dominant pathways for the introduction of alien plant species and has played a central role in shaping current and future invasion dynamics. Many ornamental plants escape cultivation after long lag phases, driven by high propagule pressure, human-mediated selection of functional traits, and increasing climatic suitability. As a result, ornamental species contribute substantially to Europe’s invasion debt, with many future invasions already “locked in” under ongoing global change. In this review, we synthesize current knowledge on the invasive risk of ornamental plants in Europe, examining introduction pathways, biological traits promoting invasiveness, the role of climate change, and the ecological, economic, and social impacts associated with ornamental plant invasions. We highlight that beyond biodiversity loss, invasive ornamental plants pose underappreciated threats to agriculture and related activities, including increased management costs, weed problems in managed landscapes, and disruption of water management and irrigation infrastructure, particularly through invasive aquatic species. We further review tools for risk assessment and prevention, including weed risk assessment frameworks, green lists, horizon scanning, and climate-informed spatial forecasting, emphasizing the importance of proactive, pathway-based approaches. Where prevention fails, management of established invasive ornamentals relies on integrated strategies combining mechanical, chemical, and biological control, often generating large quantities of biomass and long-term economic costs. We discuss the emerging but still limited potential of invasive plant biomass valorization as a complementary management option, highlighting both opportunities and constraints. Finally, we discuss implications for horticultural practices, policy development, and future research, arguing that reconciling ornamental horticulture with biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture will require anticipatory governance, stakeholder engagement, and climate-aware decision-making. By aligning horticultural innovation with invasion risk awareness, it may be possible to reduce future invasions while maintaining the social and economic benefits of ornamental plant use in Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition Management and Weed Management Strategies in Horticultural Plants)

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Graphical abstract

18 pages, 1432 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

High Selenate Doses Suppress Selenomethionine Formation in Chicory, Rocket, and Dandelion Leaves

by Marija Polić Pasković, Marijan Pogačnik, Irena Gril, Igor Pasković, Dean Ban and Dragan Žnidarčič

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020256 - 23 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Selenium (Se) biofortification of vegetables can improve dietary Se intake; however, the dose-dependent balance between inorganic Se retention and organic Se assimilation following foliar selenate application remains insufficiently resolved across species. Five leafy vegetable species (garden rocket, wild rocket, dandelion, and two chicory [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) biofortification of vegetables can improve dietary Se intake; however, the dose-dependent balance between inorganic Se retention and organic Se assimilation following foliar selenate application remains insufficiently resolved across species. Five leafy vegetable species (garden rocket, wild rocket, dandelion, and two chicory cultivars) were grown under controlled greenhouse conditions and treated twice with foliar sodium selenate at increasing application rates (1 + 1, 2 + 2, 5 + 5, 10 + 0, 10 + 10, and 10 + 50 mg Se L⁻¹) across two experiments. Total Se and Se species were determined by HPLC-UV-HG-AFS following enzymatic extraction and cross-checked on selected extracts by HPLC-ICP-MS. Foliar selenate induced substantial Se accumulation in all species, reaching up to 102 µg g⁻¹ DW in garden rocket. At moderate application rates (notably 2 + 2 and 5 + 5 mg Se L⁻¹), a considerable proportion of extracted Se was converted into organic forms, with selenomethionine (SeMet) accounting for up to ~40% of total extracted Se. In contrast, at the highest application rate (10 + 50 mg Se L⁻¹), inorganic Se(VI) became predominant (often >40%), while SeMet proportion declined sharply to ~2–4%, indicating a saturation of metabolic assimilation capacity under high Se exposure. Leaf biomass was promoted at intermediate treatments (e.g., 5 + 5 and 10 + 0/10 + 10 mg Se L⁻¹), whereas the highest rate reduced growth. Overall, foliar selenate effectively biofortifies chicory, rocket, and dandelion leaves, but excessive application rates shift Se speciation toward inorganic storage and markedly suppress SeMet formation. These findings highlight the importance of dose optimization to maximize nutritional quality while avoiding metabolic overload. Full article

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19 pages, 1466 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Biofilm of B. subtilis as a Growth Promoter of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) in the Presence of Heavy Metals

by Mirta Esther Galelli, Antonio Paz González, Ana Rosa García, Josefina Ana Eva Cristóbal-Miguez, Gonzalo Miguel Arnedillo, Eliana Cárdenas-Aguiar and Gabriela Cristina Sarti

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020255 - 23 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1306

Abstract

The negative effects of soil heavy metal contamination on food production could be mitigated using nature-based solutions, i.e., plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Yield of Lactuca sativa L. has been shown to increase by seed inoculation with biofilm of Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii. The [...] Read more.

The negative effects of soil heavy metal contamination on food production could be mitigated using nature-based solutions, i.e., plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR). Yield of Lactuca sativa L. has been shown to increase by seed inoculation with biofilm of Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii. The aim of this work was to assess whether this promoting effect occurs even in the presence of toxic concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn). First, germination rates of lettuce seeds with increasing Cu and Zn concentrations were assessed. Then, lettuce plants growing from inoculated and non-inoculated seeds were cropped on substrates with excess Cu and Zn. Above- and below-ground lettuce variables were measured, and leaf macro- and microelements were determined. Germination was more severely affected by Cu overload than by Zn overload, while this trend was reversal for plant growth. Seed inoculation enhanced germination and increased plant growth assessed by root and shoot biomass, plant height and leaf area. For example, seed inoculation increased lettuce root and aerial biomass of lettuce growing on a metal- free substrate by 68% and 62%, respectively. This practice also promoted lettuce growth in metal-overloaded substrates, increasing aerial and root biomass by 32% and 29%, respectively, in connection with Cu, and by 260% and 183% when it came to Zn. Both Cu or Zn accumulated in the edible parts of lettuce growing on contaminated substrates, but seed inoculation did not mitigate metal uptake in any case. Except for Cu and Zn, macronutrients, micronutrients and heavy metal levels in lettuce leaves were affected neither by excess metal nor by seed inoculation. Altogether, B. subtilis biofilm has been proven to be an effective seed inoculant promoting seed germination and plant growth even in the presence of heavy metals. Adverse health effects due to metal accumulation in the lettuce edible parts are not expected to increase following seed inoculation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to Improve the Sustainability of Horticultural Ecosystems)

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20 pages, 3593 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Exogenous 2,4-Epibrassinolide (EBR) on Color Change in Tomato Fruit

by Long Li, Jihua Yu, Shilei Luo, Guobin Zhang, Jian Lyu, Zeci Liu, Yan Wang, Hong Cai, Tingting Mu and Rongrong Zhang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020254 - 22 Feb 2026

Viewed by 818

Abstract

Fruit ripening and color change form a complex physiological and biochemical process involving the accumulation and breakdown of a series of metabolites. Brassinolide plays an important role in the regulation of fruit ripening. In this study, the effects of exogenous EBR (2,4-epibrassinolide) and [...] Read more.

Fruit ripening and color change form a complex physiological and biochemical process involving the accumulation and breakdown of a series of metabolites. Brassinolide plays an important role in the regulation of fruit ripening. In this study, the effects of exogenous EBR (2,4-epibrassinolide) and BRZ (Brassinazole, an inhibitor of BR biosynthesis) on fruit color change were investigated using ‘Micro-Tom’ tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) as an experimental material. The experiment was set up with five treatments: CK (distilled water + 0.01% Tween-80) and T1–T4 (0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2 mg/L EBR). In addition, a BRZ-treated group (4 μmol/L BRZ + 0.01% Tween-80) was set up in a follow-up experiment. The results showed that different concentrations of EBR treatments significantly increased the carotenoid and lycopene contents and decreased the chlorophyll contents in fruits compared with CK, with the T3 treatment (0.15 mg/L EBR) showing the most significant effect. Simultaneously, EBR induced the expression of the carotenoid metabolism genes SlGGPPS, SlPSY, SlPDS and SlZDS and promoted carotenoid accumulation. On the 20th day, compared with the CK and BRZ treatments, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b contents were significantly reduced by 20.06% and 46.03% respectively; the expression of the chlorophyll degradation-related genes SlNYC, SlSGR1, SlPPH, and SlPAO was upregulated under a 0.15 mg/L EBR treatment, accelerating chlorophyll degradation. Furthermore, the EBR treatment reduced fruit brightness (L*) and increased fruit red saturation (a*), while yellow saturation (b*) showed an increasing and then decreasing trend; on the 20th day, compared with CK and BRZ, the red saturation of the EBR treatment group increased by 125.57% and 67.37% respectively, while the brightness decreased significantly by 24.28% and 23.83% respectively. In conclusion, exogenous application of 0.15 mg/L EBR significantly accelerated fruit ripening and color transformation by promoting the accumulation of carotenoids and the degradation of chlorophyll. Full article

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

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15 pages, 870 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Biodegradability of Innovative Bio-Based Films Enriched with Monoammonium Phosphate

by Sara Paliaga, Luigi Badalucco, Delia Francesca Chillura Martino, Veronica Concetta Ciaramitaro, Silvia Rita Stazi, Enrica Allevato, Vittorio Vinciguerra and Vito Armando Laudicina

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 253; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020253 - 21 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1342

Abstract

The widespread use of conventional plastic mulch films in agriculture contributes significantly to soil pollution due to their non-biodegradable nature. This study explores the potential of novel bio-based mulch films composed of chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose, and sodium alginate, formulated in different ratios (1:1 [...] Read more.

The widespread use of conventional plastic mulch films in agriculture contributes significantly to soil pollution due to their non-biodegradable nature. This study explores the potential of novel bio-based mulch films composed of chitosan, carboxymethyl cellulose, and sodium alginate, formulated in different ratios (1:1 and 17:3), with or without enrichment with monoammonium phosphate (MAP), to serve as biodegradable films with potential nutrient-releasing functionality as alternatives to conventional plastics. A multi-analytical approach, including elemental and isotopic analysis (EA-IRMS), biodegradation assays, and pyrolysis–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS), was employed to assess their chemical properties, degradation behavior, and environmental compatibility. The results demonstrated that the 1:1 films, both with and without MAP, achieved over 90% biodegradation within 120 days under controlled soil conditions, in agreement with international criteria for soil biodegradability. In contrast, the 17:3 films showed reduced degradation, especially without MAP enrichment, highlighting the influence of polymer composition on microbial degradation. Isotopic tracing confirmed MAP integration and revealed composition-dependent fractionation effects. Py-GC-MS provided structural fingerprints of film components and putatively annotated nitrogen-containing compounds indicative of chitosan presence. Overall, these results demonstrate that the 1:1 films can be considered viable, multifunctional, and soil-friendly alternatives to conventional plastic mulches for sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) to Improve the Sustainability of Horticultural Ecosystems)

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21 pages, 3997 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Benefits of Compost Tea Bacteria: Boosting ‘San Andreas’ Strawberries’ Productivity and Fruit Quality

by Gisela M. Seimandi, Gabriela Garmendia, Juan G. Nicolier, María A. Favaro, Laura N. Fernandez, Verónica E. Ruiz, Silvana Vero and Marcos G. Derita

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 252; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020252 - 21 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1193

Abstract

Bacteria represent promising tools for reducing the use of synthetic inputs in crop production. In this study, we evaluated the effects of two bacterial strains isolated from chicken compost tea—Bacillus licheniformis and Pseudomonas mendocina—on the yield and quality of strawberry. Experimental [...] Read more.

Bacteria represent promising tools for reducing the use of synthetic inputs in crop production. In this study, we evaluated the effects of two bacterial strains isolated from chicken compost tea—Bacillus licheniformis and Pseudomonas mendocina—on the yield and quality of strawberry. Experimental assays were conducted in two seasons (2023 and 2024) under macro-tunnel conditions, with the following treatments: control without applications (Con); commercial NPK fertilizer (FerC); application of B. licheniformis (BL) and P. mendocina (PM) solution in soil once a month. Both bacterial treatments enhanced soil properties. Fruit individual weight significantly increased in BL treatment compared to the control. Similar trends were observed for anthocyanin and ascorbic acid content (increases > 25%), as well as for antioxidant activity (increases of more than 20% and 13% for BL and PM, respectively). The differences were more significant in 2023. In addition, both strains showed positive in vitro results for phytase, siderophore, and IAA production (5.8–8.8 and 9.3–13 µg IAA/mL for BL and PM after 15 days). Although further field validation is required, these results indicate that bacteria (particularly B. licheniformis) show strong potential as bioinoculants to enhance the productivity and quality of strawberry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Microbial Fertilizers on Yield and Quality of Horticultural Plants)

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18 pages, 1724 KB

Open AccessArticle

Calibration and Validation of VegSyst-CH Model to Manage Water and Nitrogen for Open-Field Lettuce in North China

by Bingrui Lian, Zhengdong Wu, Jungang Yang, Rodney Thompson and Marisa Gallardo

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 251; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020251 - 20 Feb 2026

Viewed by 865

Abstract

In the cold and arid regions of northern China, efficient water and nitrogen (N) management is critical for the sustainable production of leafy vegetables. Simplified models that estimate crop N and water transpiration demands using simple inputs based on climate parameters become an [...] Read more.

In the cold and arid regions of northern China, efficient water and nitrogen (N) management is critical for the sustainable production of leafy vegetables. Simplified models that estimate crop N and water transpiration demands using simple inputs based on climate parameters become an important method for making precise suggestions on N and irrigation application at a regional scale. This study developed and validated a regionally adapted version of the VegSyst model, named VegSyst-CH, based on a multi-year open-field experiment from 2021 to 2023. Model parameters were calibrated using data from the 2021 growing season and validated with independent datasets from 2022 and 2023. A critical N concentration (CNC) curve was established to describe the relationship between biomass accumulation and N content. VegSyst-CH, with a radiation use efficiency of 1.94 g MJ⁻¹, demonstrated high simulation accuracy for crop growth. The model showed a good predictive performance of N uptake under medium (N1) and high (N2) N treatments, with coefficients of determination (R²) above 0.80 across years and normalized root mean square error (NRMSE) values generally below 30%. The VegSyst-CH model also showed high accuracy in simulating crop evapotranspiration (ETc) over three consecutive growing seasons (2021–2023), with the dynamic trends of cumulative ETc closely aligning with measured values and the coefficients of determination (R²) consistently exceeding 0.90. These results validate the model’s robustness and applicability across different years. In conclusion, the VegSyst-CH model has strong spatiotemporal regulation capacity and climatic responsiveness, offering a robust decision support tool for precision fertilization and irrigation in open-field lettuce production in cold and arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soil and Plant Nutrient Management for Optimizing Horticultural Crop Yields and Soil Sustainability)

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19 pages, 841 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic Diversity and Structure in Coffea canephora Genotypes from the Amazon Region

by Shayenne Hevelyn Farias Fernandes, Caroline de Souza Bezerra, Santiago Linorio Ferreyra Ramos, Ricardo Lopes, Marcelo Curitiba Espíndula, Thaynara Silva Ramos, Rodrigo Rodrigues Matiello, Maria José Marques, Carlos Henrique Salvino Gadelha Meneses and Maria Teresa Gomes Lopes

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 250; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020250 - 20 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1376

Abstract

Coffea canephora is economically and socially important for small-scale agriculture in Northern Brazil. To identify genotypes adapted to Amazonian edaphoclimatic conditions, clones of the species have been evaluated across multiple locations in Amazonas. Introducing genetically selected materials into comparable environments may promote consistent [...] Read more.

Coffea canephora is economically and socially important for small-scale agriculture in Northern Brazil. To identify genotypes adapted to Amazonian edaphoclimatic conditions, clones of the species have been evaluated across multiple locations in Amazonas. Introducing genetically selected materials into comparable environments may promote consistent productivity gains in the short and medium term. In this context, the aim of this study was to assess the genetic diversity of different C. canephora genotypes using microsatellite markers, which will support the development of superior genotypes adapted to Amazon conditions. A total of 43 C. canephora genotypes were analyzed. Leaves were collected for genomic DNA extraction and were standardized and amplified by PCR using microsatellite primers. Genotyping was performed via capillary electrophoresis, allowing for the determination of allele sizes. Genetic structure was inferred, and genetic diversity parameters were estimated. The average observed heterozygosity (H_O = 0.64) exceeded the expected heterozygosity (H_E = 0.53), and the average inbreeding coefficient (f = −0.19) indicated an excess of heterozygotes. The results revealed high genetic variability among the evaluated genotypes. These findings highlight the broad genetic diversity of C. canephora, reinforcing its potential as a genetic basis for selection and the development of cultivars adapted to the environmental conditions of the Amazon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomic Insights into Climate Resilience: Tools and Strategies for Coffee Improvement)

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10 pages, 1510 KB

Open AccessArticle

Agave triangularis Transcriptome Reveals Candidate SRO Genes Involved in Leaf Development and Stress Response of Agave

by Huanhuan Qi, Yuchen Feng, Liang Chen, Bo Wang, Xiaoli Hu, Gang Xu, Jingyi Lu, Shibei Tan, Tao Chen and Xing Huang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 249; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020249 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 876

Abstract

Agave triangularis Jacobi is an ornamental agave species that represents a valuable genetic resource for enhancing resistance and tolerance in cultivated agaves such as A. tequilana and A. H11648. In this study, we performed the first de novo transcriptome assembly of A. [...] Read more.

Agave triangularis Jacobi is an ornamental agave species that represents a valuable genetic resource for enhancing resistance and tolerance in cultivated agaves such as A. tequilana and A. H11648. In this study, we performed the first de novo transcriptome assembly of A. triangularis using Illumina sequencing. A total of 131,321 transcripts were assembled, comprising 119,764,849 bp. Functional annotation revealed a close evolutionary relationship between A. triangularis and Asparagus officinalis, supporting its phylogenetic placement within the Asparagaceae family. We further identified five SRO genes in both A. triangularis and A. H11648. Their expression profiles in A. H11648, analyzed by qRT-PCR, suggested involvement in leaf development. Notably, AhSRO2 and AhSRO3 were significantly up-regulated following oomycete infection, while AhSRO3 was markedly induced under low-temperature stress. These findings highlight AhSRO2 and AhSRO3 as promising candidate genes for further functional investigation. This study provides the first reference transcriptome for A. triangularis, offering a valuable resource for gene discovery and comparative evolutionary studies in agave. The expression patterns of SRO genes establish a framework for understanding their potential roles in leaf development and stress responses, supporting future efforts toward genetic improvement in agave species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Ecophysiology, Biochemistry, and Stress Adaptation of Succulent Plants)

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13 pages, 909 KB

Open AccessArticle

Application of Peat or Biochar on Raphanus sativus L. ‘Cherry Belle’ Under Brackish Water Irrigation: Its Effect on Growth and Salt Tolerance

by Guili Liu, Yongkang Zhou, Haiyan Zhu, Yanfeng Qi, Yanhui Jia, Haicheng Xu, Xiaoan Sun and Bo Zheng

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 248; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020248 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 940

Abstract

The global shortage of freshwater, especially in agriculture, has become a serious threat to food security and safety; therefore, using brackish water with soil amendments in facility-grown vegetable production has drawn more attention recently. In this study, the effects of the combined use [...] Read more.

The global shortage of freshwater, especially in agriculture, has become a serious threat to food security and safety; therefore, using brackish water with soil amendments in facility-grown vegetable production has drawn more attention recently. In this study, the effects of the combined use of peat or biochar at different rates (1%, 3%, and 5%) on soil properties, plant growth, and physiological responses were investigated in cherry belle radish (Raphanus sativus L.) irrigated with brackish water (5 g/L). The results revealed that peat significantly cut soil electrical conductivity (EC) by 42.61% and the pH value by 0.29, while biochar reduced soil EC by 32.44% but increased the pH value slightly. Both peat and biochar significantly increased the chlorophyll content and photosynthetic characteristics in cherry belle radish leaves and effectively promoted the accumulation of plant biomass. The net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of cherry belle radish in the soil amended with 5% peat or with 3% biochar increased by 89.06% and 85.94%, respectively, compared with CK, while the fresh weight of fleshy roots rose by 74.40% and 50.27%, respectively. This study further found that peat and biochar had effectively inhibited lipid peroxidation and proline accumulation in plants. The plasma membrane permeability was reduced by 41.18% and 39.90%, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content decreased by 49.66% and 41.90%, respectively. In addition, peat and biochar significantly improved ion homeostasis in plants by increasing the ratios of K⁺/Na⁺ and Ca²⁺/Na⁺ in leaves, with the increment amplitudes reaching 90.21%/81.45% and 60.47%/79.15%, respectively. Nevertheless, biochar exhibited a superior effect compared to peat on balancing plant ions. In conclusion, a proper application of peat or biochar under brackish water irrigation has a significant potential to ameliorate soil properties and alleviate salt stress in plants, providing a safe approach for using brackish water with soil amendments in facility vegetable production in arid and semi-arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)

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26 pages, 5922 KB

Open AccessArticle

Expression Characteristics and Functional Analysis of Prunus persica Gene PpNAC036

by Yuchen Huo, Xinmiao Li, Chengyu Yan, Dajiang Wang, Hongxia Wang, Jingjing Geng, Xiuhong An, Haijiang Chen and Yi Tian

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020247 - 19 Feb 2026

Viewed by 874

Abstract

Peach trees exhibit vigorous growth that is often difficult to manage, frequently leading to canopy closure and the outward migration of fruiting positions, which ultimately results in diminished yield and fruit quality. Therefore, it is of great importance to study the key genes [...] Read more.

Peach trees exhibit vigorous growth that is often difficult to manage, frequently leading to canopy closure and the outward migration of fruiting positions, which ultimately results in diminished yield and fruit quality. Therefore, it is of great importance to study the key genes regulating peach tree vigor. Preliminary experiments identified PpNAC036 as a candidate gene potentially associated with vigor. In this study, we characterized the expression profile of PpNAC036 across various peach tissues. Our results demonstrate that PpNAC036 is most highly expressed in stems and responds rapidly to hormonal treatments, with expression levels increasing 3.6-fold and 3.9-fold under IAA and NPA treatments, respectively (5 min to 1 h). Subsequently, the PpNAC036 gene was cloned and overexpressed in Arabidopsis thaliana. Compared to the wild type, transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited a 28–50% reduction in primary root length and a 31.6–36.8% decrease in hypocotyl length. Conversely, at maturity, the transgenic Arabidopsis displayed enhanced vegetative vigor, with fresh and dry weights increasing by 37–48% and 29–46%, respectively. This growth was accompanied by a nearly two-fold increase in stem diameter and a 1.5- to 2-fold elevation in lignin content; simultaneously, genes related to lignin biosynthesis were upregulated. Hormonal profiling revealed that PpNAC036 overexpression led to a 7-fold increase in IAA, a 22–60% rise in GAs, and a 97–106% increase in CTKs, whereas ABA levels decreased by 5–6%. Furthermore, the transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited delayed germination and flowering, along with alterations in the number of floral organs. Transcriptomic analysis identified 2797 common DEGs, which were enriched in pathways related to cell wall organization and hormone signaling. Collectively, these findings elucidate the function of PpNAC036 as a pivotal regulator of plant vigor and secondary cell wall development, positioning it as a promising candidate gene for molecular breeding and architectural optimization in peach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Developmental Biology in Tree Fruit and Nut Crops—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 1355 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Growth Regulators and Propagation Systems on the Growth of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) Cuttings

by Georgios Lykokanellos, Ioannis Lagogiannis, Aglaia Liopa-Tsakalidi and Georgios Salachas

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 246; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020246 - 18 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1250

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of the growth retardants daminozide and paclobutrazol on the production of propagation material of Lavandula angustifolia under controlled greenhouse conditions. Cuttings were propagated using three systems (mist, aeroponics, and float) combined with growth regulator treatments and two rooting [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of the growth retardants daminozide and paclobutrazol on the production of propagation material of Lavandula angustifolia under controlled greenhouse conditions. Cuttings were propagated using three systems (mist, aeroponics, and float) combined with growth regulator treatments and two rooting hormone formulations (powder vs. gel). Shoot height and root traits were assessed as indicators of propagation performance. The results are reported as estimated marginal means (±SE) derived from a fitted general linear model. Overall, the float system was associated with greater shoot elongation, whereas aeroponics consistently promoted longer and more highly branched root systems, resulting in the highest root length and branching among the three propagation systems. Compared with mist and float systems, aeroponic propagation was associated with approximately 20–30% higher estimated root length and a consistently greater degree of root branching across growth regulator treatments. Gel-based rooting formulations further enhanced root length and branching compared with powder formulations across propagation systems. Growth regulator treatments generally reduced shoot height relative to controls, while daminozide showed system-dependent trends for shoot and root traits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Agriculture and Vertical Farming of Horticultural Crops)

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18 pages, 3576 KB

Open AccessArticle

PbeVAMP724 Alleviates Cell Death and Enhances Resistance to Valsa Canker in Pyrus betulifolia

by Huanhuan Hu, Wenhui Wang, Minrui Cai, Yatao Li, E Sun, Cunwu Zuo and Qiang Chang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020245 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 783

Abstract

Valsa canker, caused by Valsa pyri (Vp), severely threatens global pear production. The VAMP72 family modulates plant immunity, but its role in Valsa canker resistance remains unclear. In this study, it was found that PbeVAMP724, encoding a membrane-localized SNARE protein, [...] Read more.

Valsa canker, caused by Valsa pyri (Vp), severely threatens global pear production. The VAMP72 family modulates plant immunity, but its role in Valsa canker resistance remains unclear. In this study, it was found that PbeVAMP724, encoding a membrane-localized SNARE protein, was significantly induced by Vp infection and Abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), and jasmonic acid (JA) in the resistant pear rootstock Pyrus betulaefolia. Transient overexpression of PbeVAMP724 in ‘Huangguan’ fruits reduced Vp-induced lesions, and the lesion diameter was reduced by 23.1% at 48 h and 20.0% at 72 h compared to the empty vector control (pFGC-5941), whereas VIGS silencing compromised the resistance. Stable overexpression in suspension cells ‘Duli-G03’ (P. betulifolia) enhanced tolerance to Vp metabolites (VpM), alleviated cell death, and induced ROS bursts and defense responses. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that phloem/xylem histogenesis-related genes (GWHGAAYT028948, GWHGAAYT039435) are co-expressed with PbeVAMP724. In conclusion, we demonstrate that PbeVAMP724 integrates hormone signaling, triggers ROS bursts, and activates defense responses to positively regulate resistance to Valsa canker in pear, representing a promising candidate for breeding Valsa canker-resistant pear varieties. Full article

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

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17 pages, 3514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Protocorm-Derived Fungus, Ceratobasidium sp., Significantly Enhances Seed Germination in Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl. (Orchidaceae)

by Cai Yu, Meng-Xue Wang, Pei-Yan Xue, Lu Tan, Xi-Qiang Song and Shi-Cheng Shao

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 244; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020244 - 18 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899

Abstract

Orchid seed germination is heavily dependent on orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) for nutrient acquisition in the field. Employing OMF to promote the germination and reproductive success of orchids is increasingly recognized as an effective conservation strategy. However, the success of this approach depends [...] Read more.

Orchid seed germination is heavily dependent on orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) for nutrient acquisition in the field. Employing OMF to promote the germination and reproductive success of orchids is increasingly recognized as an effective conservation strategy. However, the success of this approach depends on identifying the most compatible fungal partners and integrating them properly into conservation programs. In this study, seeds of Anoectochilus roxburghii (Wall.) Lindl., a medicinal terrestrial orchid with Chinese national Level-II protected status, were co-cultured in vitro with 12 fungal strains from diverse sources to test seed preference to fungi and identify germination-promoting fungi. One strain (P2), isolated from host protocorms and identified as Ceratobasidium sp. based on rDNA-ITS phylogeny, showed the highest germination-promoting efficacy in in vitro symbiotic seed germination (SSG) experiments, yielding 41.09 ± 3.04% protocorm formation and 13.83 ± 3.15% seedling development at 60 days after sowing. Both values were significantly higher than those of other fungal treatments and the uninoculated control. Pilot trials of ex vitro and ex situ symbiotic seed germination demonstrated that strain P2 enhanced seedling development despite a low germination percentage caused by seed loss in artificial medium. These findings highlight the strong symbiotic preference of A. roxburghii seeds for strain P2 and demonstrate its potential as a valuable microbial resource for increasing seedling density in large-scale seedling propagation programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Propagation and Seeds)

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19 pages, 1976 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exogenous Na₂SiO₃ Mitigates the Adverse Effects of Drought Stress on Cucumber Seed Germination by Regulating the AsA-GSH Cycle

by Kexin Chen, Zitong Liu, Xin Meng, Shuyan Jiang, Li Jin, Shuya Wang, Shuchao Huang, Jian Lyu, Ning Jin and Jihua Yu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 243; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020243 - 18 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 767

Abstract

Silicon (Si) plays a crucial role in mitigating biotic and abiotic stress in crops, yet its effects on cucumber seed germination under drought stress remain unclear. This study investigated the impact of exogenous Si on the ascorbic acid-glutathione (AsA-GSH) cycle during cucumber seed [...] Read more.

Silicon (Si) plays a crucial role in mitigating biotic and abiotic stress in crops, yet its effects on cucumber seed germination under drought stress remain unclear. This study investigated the impact of exogenous Si on the ascorbic acid-glutathione (AsA-GSH) cycle during cucumber seed germination under PEG-6000-induced drought stress. Seeds of the cucumber cultivar ‘Xinchun No. 4’ were used in this study. Na₂SiO₃ served as the silicon source, and drought stress was simulated using PEG-6000. The treatments included distilled water (CK), 10% polyethylene glycol (PEG), and PEG combined with five concentrations of silicon (1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 mM Si). Results showed that 10% PEG significantly inhibited seed germination and reduced antioxidant capacity. In contrast, 5 mM Si (5.0 Si + PEG) alleviated PEG-induced stress, reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) and proline (Pro) by 36.87% and 13.71%, respectively, and decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Specifically, H₂O₂ and O₂·⁻ contents declined by 20.00–41.76% and 14.29–27.27%, respectively. The 5.0 Si + PEG treatment also reduced soluble sugar content by 29.08% and 27.84% at 48 h and 72 h, respectively, while increasing soluble protein content by 9.97% and 10.30% at 6 h and 12 h. Additionally, it enhanced activities of dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), glutathione reductase (GR), and glutathione Stransferase (GST) by 15.00%, 17.48%, and 18.81%, respectively, and elevated ascorbic acid (AsA) content and the GSH/GSSG ratio. In conclusion, 5 mM Si alleviated drought stress by activating the AsA-GSH cycle and enhancing antioxidant defense, providing valuable insights for Si application in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Biostimulants on the Growth and Development of Horticultural Crops)

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17 pages, 959 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Canopy Vineyard Management on Physiological Behaviour and Radiation Interception Efficiency in Syrah

by Mario de la Fuente, Rubén Linares, José Ramón Lissarrague, Sara Sánchez-Élez and Pilar Baeza

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 242; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020242 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1076

Abstract

Historically, certain physiological behaviours were typically attributed to genetic factors. However, some grape varieties exhibit different responses depending on crop management and environmental conditions. The present study examines whether the physiological responses of grapevines traditionally attributed to genotypic traits (near-isohydric or near-anisohydric behaviour) [...] Read more.

Historically, certain physiological behaviours were typically attributed to genetic factors. However, some grape varieties exhibit different responses depending on crop management and environmental conditions. The present study examines whether the physiological responses of grapevines traditionally attributed to genotypic traits (near-isohydric or near-anisohydric behaviour) can instead be substantially modified by canopy architecture. The objective was to determine how canopy management influences water relations (leaf water potential—Ψ_L), physiological plant responses (water use efficiency (WUE), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration (E) and photosynthetic (A) rates), and radiation interception efficiency (εi), particularly under warm Mediterranean conditions. To test this, two training systems were evaluated in a Syrah vineyard: a vertical shoot position (VSP1) and a sprawl (S1) system with 12 shoots·m⁻¹, under the same irrigation regime. The results showed that under stressed conditions (high vapor pressure deficit [VPD] and relatively lower Ψ_L, from −1.4 to −0.6 MPa), the S1 system—despite a similar leaf area index, LAI—exhibited lower gs values than those of the VSP1 system (10–30%), with plants closing their stomata to reduce water consumption and prevent their dehydration caused by steep E rates. Meanwhile, the VSP vines exhibited higher gs values (isohydric-like response), indicating higher E rates, which reduced their WUE and intrinsic water-use efficiency (IE). This strategy (similar to the anisohydric one) allowed the S1 treatment to obtain higher WUE and interception radiation efficiency (εi) ratios, even at low Ψ_L (more efficient), produced by the higher canopy demand (more exposed surface area [SA]). These contrasting behaviours indicate that sprawl systems can enhance radiation interception and WUE compared with vertical systems under semiarid Mediterranean conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitis Genetic Resources: Phenotyping, Genotyping, and Utilization for Sustainable Viticulture)

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12 pages, 528 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid In Vitro Propagation of Quercus gilva via Nodal Explants: A Protocol for Culture Establishment, Shoot Proliferation, and Ex Vitro Rooting

by Xin-Cheng Huang, Xia Zhou, Lian Liu, Xuan-Fang Zuo, Tian-Ge Chen, Long-Qing Cai, Lei Ouyang, Xin Qi and He Li

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 241; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020241 - 18 Feb 2026

Viewed by 965

Abstract

Quercus gilva is a dominant species in the subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests of East Asia with substantial economic and ecological value. However, efficient clonal propagation methods for this species remain limited. This study aimed to establish a micropropagation protocol for Q. gilva using [...] Read more.

Quercus gilva is a dominant species in the subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests of East Asia with substantial economic and ecological value. However, efficient clonal propagation methods for this species remain limited. This study aimed to establish a micropropagation protocol for Q. gilva using nodal stem segments from two-year-old seedlings as explants, focusing on culture establishment, shoot induction, shoot proliferation, and ex vitro rooting. Aseptic culture was effectively established by rinsing explants under running water for 15 min, followed by immersion in 0.1% HgCl₂ for 8 min, which balanced contamination control and explant viability. Explant browning was reduced by pre-soaking in 1.0 g·L⁻¹ ascorbic acid (VC) and by supplementing the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 3.0 g·L⁻¹ activated charcoal. The highest shoot induction percentage (80.0%) was obtained on MS medium containing 1.0 mg·L⁻¹ 2,4-D and 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ TDZ. Shoot proliferation was achieved by subculturing induced shoots on MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg·L⁻¹ NAA and 1.0 mg·L⁻¹ 2iP. For ex vitro rooting, regenerated shoots were dipped in a solution containing 600.0 mg·L⁻¹ IBA plus 700.0 mg·L⁻¹ NAA and then transplanted into a substrate of peat and perlite (1:1, v/v), resulting in a rooting percentage of 70.0% and well-developed root systems. This study establishes a preliminary in vitro propagation framework for Q. gilva, providing a methodological reference for future studies aimed at improving clonal propagation efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Stress Tolerance in Horticultural Plants Through Genomics and Gene Editing)

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18 pages, 2044 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Field-Based Evaluation of Heat Tolerance in Sweet Cherry Rootstocks Reveals Integrated Morphological and Physiological Adaptation Mechanisms

by Huifeng Luo, Hui Liu, Jiabo Pei, Ruoxin Ruan, Chen Zhang, Dujun Xi, Yongping Li and Kangkang Huang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020240 - 17 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1199

Abstract

High summer temperatures increasingly constrain sweet cherry production, yet field-validated assessments of rootstock resilience remain scarce. To fill this gap, this study presents a pioneering multidimensional evaluation of five widely used sweet cherry rootstocks (Gisela 6, Gisela 12, Krymsk 5, Colt, and Lanting) [...] Read more.

High summer temperatures increasingly constrain sweet cherry production, yet field-validated assessments of rootstock resilience remain scarce. To fill this gap, this study presents a pioneering multidimensional evaluation of five widely used sweet cherry rootstocks (Gisela 6, Gisela 12, Krymsk 5, Colt, and Lanting) under prolonged natural heat stress. Morphological traits, leaf anatomical characteristics, antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, CAT, POD), lipid peroxidation (MDA), phytohormones (ABA and JA), and osmotic regulators were assessed. Traits with high coefficients of variation, including POD activity, ABA, JA, and soluble protein content, were identified as sensitive indicators of heat stress. Lanting exhibited the strongest heat tolerance, characterized by thicker leaves, fewer heat-induced lesions, and enhanced antioxidant capacity, whereas Gisela 6 showed severe leaf abscission, elevated MDA and ABA accumulation, and the weakest defense capacity. Correlation analysis indicated that root sucker number was positively associated with SOD activity and soluble sugar content, suggesting a potential role of whole-plant carbon allocation in mitigating oxidative stress. Using the Entropy Weight–TOPSIS model, we provided a robust ranking that identifies Lanting and Colt as superior heat-resilient genotypes. The results provide a field-validated framework that bridges the gap between controlled-environment theory and practical orchard management, offering critical guidance for expanding sweet cherry cultivation into high-temperature regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Rootstock on Fruit Production and Quality)

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24 pages, 14591 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Analysis of Physiological, Transcriptomic, and Metabolomic Data Reveals the Drought Response Mechanism in Cabbage

by Huiru Wang, Yanming Gao, Yune Cao and Jianshe Li

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 239; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020239 - 16 Feb 2026

Viewed by 958

Abstract

Under global climate change, cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata), a major vegetable crop, is increasingly exposed to intermittent and fluctuating drought stress. A multi-level investigation of its adaptive strategies under water-deficit conditions is therefore essential for a comprehensive understanding of drought [...] Read more.

Under global climate change, cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata), a major vegetable crop, is increasingly exposed to intermittent and fluctuating drought stress. A multi-level investigation of its adaptive strategies under water-deficit conditions is therefore essential for a comprehensive understanding of drought tolerance and for accelerating genetic breeding programs. In this study, the drought-resistant cultivar ‘ZG-628’ and the drought-sensitive cultivar ‘ZG-21’ were selected based on seed germination indices. Integrated physiological measurements, transcriptomic profiling, and metabolomic analyses were conducted to systematically compare their responses to drought stress. The results showed that the drought-resistant genotype ‘ZG-628’ maintained better water status, exhibited higher antioxidant enzyme activities, and accumulated greater levels of osmotic regulators under drought conditions. In addition, ‘ZG-628’ preserved higher chlorophyll content and photosynthetic efficiency than the sensitive genotype. At the molecular level, ‘ZG-628’ primarily responded to drought through key components of the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway, including PYL, PP2C, and SnRK2. Metabolomic analysis further revealed preferential accumulation of flavonoids and ABA-related metabolites ‘ZG-628’, accompanied by specific activation of the “flavonoid and flavonol biosynthesis” pathway. Integrated multi-omics analysis indicated that plant hormone signal transduction was the most significantly enriched pathway among drought-responsive differentially expressed genes. Overall, this study systematically elucidates the coordinated multi-omics mechanisms underlying drought resistance in cabbage and provides both a theoretical basis and potential molecular targets for breeding drought-tolerant cabbage varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Environmental Stress, and Disease Management of Fruits and Vegetables)

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12 pages, 2038 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Method Facilitates Bermudagrass Growth During Spring Transition

by Xiang Yao, Dongli Hao, Dandan Li, Jingjing Wang, Sheng Zhu and Haoran Wang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 238; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020238 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 712

Abstract

The spring transition in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) overseeded with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) remains a major challenge in turf management due to persistent competition from the cool-season species. Conventional practices such as core cultivation can damage bermudagrass stands and [...] Read more.

The spring transition in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) overseeded with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) remains a major challenge in turf management due to persistent competition from the cool-season species. Conventional practices such as core cultivation can damage bermudagrass stands and delay recovery. This study evaluated a novel, non-damaging approach using a yeast-based fertilizer to enhance bermudagrass regrowth during the transition period. The fertilizer consisted of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and glucose applied as a soil drench. A greenhouse experiment was conducted over two years (2023–2024) using “Yangjiang” bermudagrass overseeded with “Wintergame” perennial ryegrass. Five treatments were compared: control (0 g·m⁻² yeast + 0 g·m⁻² glucose), yeast alone (200 g·m⁻²), and yeast combined with glucose at 100, 200, or 400 g·m⁻². Growth parameters were assessed at 7, 14, and 28 days after treatment. The application of 200 g·m⁻² yeast + 200 g·m⁻² glucose yielded the most significant improvements. At 14 days, bermudagrass shoot density and turf cover significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 45.81% and 129.51%, respectively, compared to the control. By 28 days, aboveground and belowground biomass significantly (p < 0.05) increased by 308.14% and 51.35%, respectively. Root system architecture was also significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced, with total root length, surface area, and volume rising by 62.05%, 40.59%, and 63.51%. These results demonstrate that yeast fertilizer strongly promotes bermudagrass shoot and root growth during spring transition, likely by generating CO₂ to improve soil porosity without physical turf injury. This method provides a practical and complementary strategy for managing overseeded turfgrass systems. Full article

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

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19 pages, 7168 KB

Open AccessArticle

Potassium Stress Induces Compensatory Root Adaptive Responses in Trifoliate Orange Through Reconfigured Auxin Signaling

by Chun-Yan Liu, Yi-Yuan Peng, Xinmin Deng and Yong Hao

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 237; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020237 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 715

Abstract

Potassium (K⁺) is essential for plant growth and development, influencing numerous physiological processes and stress responses. While the importance of K⁺ in overall plant performance is well-established, its specific effects on root system architecture and the underlying molecular mechanisms in [...] Read more.

Potassium (K⁺) is essential for plant growth and development, influencing numerous physiological processes and stress responses. While the importance of K⁺ in overall plant performance is well-established, its specific effects on root system architecture and the underlying molecular mechanisms in woody perennials remain poorly understood. This knowledge gap is particularly significant for citrus rootstocks like trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata L.), where root system optimization directly impacts drought resistance, nutrient acquisition, and overall orchard productivity. Here, we investigated how varying K⁺ concentrations (K₀, K₂, K₆, and K₁₂) affect trifoliate orange seedling development by comprehensively analyzing root architecture parameters, root hair morphology, endogenous hormone levels, and expression patterns of cell-wall-modifying and auxin-related genes. We found that moderate K⁺ levels (K₆) optimized root architectural development while both deficiency (K₀, K₂) and excess (K₁₂) inhibited overall growth and root architecture but enhanced root hair development. This morphological dichotomy corresponded to distinct hormonal profiles, showing reduced auxin (IAA), gibberellins (GAs), and zeatin riboside (ZR) levels under K⁺ stress conditions. Gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of expansins (PtEXPA4, PtEXPA5, PtEXPA7) and reconfiguration of auxin biosynthesis (TAA/TAR/YUC) and transport (AUX/LAX/ABCB/PIN) machinery under non-optimal K⁺ conditions. Our findings suggest that K⁺ availability modulates trifoliate orange root development through coordinated regulation of hormone homeostasis and gene expression, particularly within the auxin signaling network. These findings elucidate K⁺-responsive root developmental plasticity as a potential adaptive strategy, providing valuable insights for optimizing fertilization strategies in citrus cultivation and identifying potential molecular targets for enhancing potassium use efficiency in woody perennials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Absorption and Utilization in Horticultural Crops)

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17 pages, 2367 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of New N Fertilizers on N Supply and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Vegetable Soils

by Yijiang Wang, Lingying Xu and Wentai Zhang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020236 - 15 Feb 2026

Viewed by 942

Abstract

Soil mineral nitrogen (N) supply and the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio (NH₄⁺-N:NO₃⁻-N) are critical for vegetable yield and quality. Under current urea N-reduction practices, inadequate soil N often limits continuous vegetable growth. This study evaluated novel N fertilizer prepared [...] Read more.

Soil mineral nitrogen (N) supply and the ammonium-to-nitrate ratio (NH₄⁺-N:NO₃⁻-N) are critical for vegetable yield and quality. Under current urea N-reduction practices, inadequate soil N often limits continuous vegetable growth. This study evaluated novel N fertilizer prepared by adsorbing different ratios of ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen onto rice straw extract (AX1–AX5), different N gradient conventional urea (U1, U2) and a control without N fertilizer (CK) in an incubation experiment. Results showed that ammonium-loaded novel N fertilizers (AX1, AX2) maintained a stable soil NH₄⁺-N:NO₃⁻-N (~1:1), while nitrate-loaded ones (AX4, AX5) exhibited slow-release effects, increasing cumulative mineral N by ~70% over U1. Novel N fertilizers also raised cumulative CO₂ (3451–4513 μg kg⁻¹) and N₂O (9.6–12.0 μg kg⁻¹) emissions versus U1, reflecting stimulated microbial activity supported by higher sucrase and nitrate reductase activities. The treatment (AX2) showed “fast-early, stable-late” N release, with mineral N consistently exceeding U1 and a maintained NH₄⁺-N:NO₃⁻-N near 1:1. Field validation is needed to assess agronomic and environmental performance under real farming conditions. Full article

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21 pages, 5115 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Biochar Combined with Organic Fertilizer on Soil Properties and the Yield and Quality of Sweet Potato

by Guangyan Sun, Zhenpeng Deng, Ruina Zhao, Fangxi Zhao, Tenglong Wang, Yucui Li, Yiming Song, Shuwen Deng, Kang Du, Changwen Lyu, Daobin Tang and Jichun Wang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 235; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020235 - 14 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1500

Abstract

Biochar and organic fertilizers are recommended for sustaining crop yield and sustainable agricultural development. However, the mechanisms of their combined application on the nutritional, flavor and eating quality and their optimal ratio remain unclear in sweet potatoes. Therefore, this field experiment employed four [...] Read more.

Biochar and organic fertilizers are recommended for sustaining crop yield and sustainable agricultural development. However, the mechanisms of their combined application on the nutritional, flavor and eating quality and their optimal ratio remain unclear in sweet potatoes. Therefore, this field experiment employed four fertilization treatments: inorganic compound fertilizer (CF), organic fertilizer (OF), and biochar-based organic fertilizer containing 15% biochar (BOF15) or 30% biochar (BOF30). The results revealed that the OF, BOF15, and BOF30 treatments significantly ameliorated soil physical properties, elevated soil pH values and available nutrient contents compared with CF. They also increased sweet potato yield, regulated sucrose-metabolizing enzyme, and enhanced quality. Among them, the BOF15 treatment exhibited the most significant improvement. Compared with CF, BOF15 treatment increased the contents of starch, total soluble sugar, sucrose, and β-carotene by 23.16–31.82%. It also optimized texture by reducing hardness and chewiness while increasing springiness, elevated key volatile compounds (terpene and aldehyde), and received the highest sensory scores for mealiness, aroma, and sweetness. In conclusion, biochar combined with organic fertilizer synergistically improves soil properties and enhances sweet potato yield and quality, with BOF15 being the optimal treatment. This study provides support for optimizing fertilization strategies in high-quality sweet potato production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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17 pages, 2567 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification of R2R3-MYB Family Members and Identification of AaMYB1/AaMYB36 Linked to Peel Coloration in Northern Red-Peel Actinidia arguta

by Ru Zhang, Yongqiang Zhang, Jie Cheng, Xiaoxu Yang, Meiyu Jin, Yilong Piao and Songhao An

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020234 - 14 Feb 2026

Viewed by 901

Abstract

Kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta) has been rapidly commercialized. However, fruits produced in northern growing regions predominantly have green peels, and the red/purple peel phenotypes remain relatively rare, which limits the discovery and utilization of red-peel germplasm. Peel reddening is primarily caused by [...] Read more.

Kiwiberry (Actinidia arguta) has been rapidly commercialized. However, fruits produced in northern growing regions predominantly have green peels, and the red/purple peel phenotypes remain relatively rare, which limits the discovery and utilization of red-peel germplasm. Peel reddening is primarily caused by the accumulation of anthocyanins, and R2R3-MYB transcription factors are key regulators of the flavonoid/anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway. However, the MYB transcription factor family in the genus Actinidia has been less studied, with few systematic analyses linked to color phenotypes. Therefore, we performed a genome-wide search for R2R3-MYB family members in A. arguta and characterized their physicochemical properties, phylogeny, chromosomal distribution, gene duplication events, and synteny relationships. Furthermore, RNA-Seq analysis, phylogenetic analysis, and gene expression patterns of the rare northern red-peel cultivar ‘Yanlong 1’ revealed that AaMYB1 and AaMYB36 are key candidate genes closely associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis in the fruit peel. Validation experiments revealed that both genes exhibited significantly higher expression during the coloration stage than during the green fruit stage, as well as significantly higher expression in the red-peel cultivar than in green-peel cultivars. Four key structural genes (UFGT, CHS, DFR, and ANS), especially, CHS, DFR, and ANS, displayed a similar pattern of upregulation. These correlative results suggest that AaMYB1 and AaMYB36 are candidate positive regulators of peel-specific anthocyanin accumulation. These results provide important targets for developing molecular markers and improving the red-peel trait in northern A. arguta through breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Cultivation and Breeding of Kiwifruit)

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13 pages, 3879 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effects of Trichoderma harzianum Inoculation on the Growth, Nutrient Absorption, and Expressions of Stress-Responsive Genes of Citrus Under Salt Stress

by Meilan Zhao, Peng Wang, Xiao Liu and Longfei Jin

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020233 - 14 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1336

Abstract

Trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata L.) is one of the most widely utilized rootstocks in citrus production; however, it exhibits a relatively high sensitivity to salt stress. When cultivated in salinized soil, it frequently develops nutrient uptake disorders, leaf chlorosis, as well as [...] Read more.

Trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata L.) is one of the most widely utilized rootstocks in citrus production; however, it exhibits a relatively high sensitivity to salt stress. When cultivated in salinized soil, it frequently develops nutrient uptake disorders, leaf chlorosis, as well as reduced fruit yield and quality. To enhance the salt stress tolerance of citrus plants, this study investigated the effects of Trichoderma harzianum inoculation on the growth and response mechanisms of citrus seedlings under salt stress conditions. The results showed that salt stress significantly inhibited the growth of citrus seedlings, while T. harzianum inoculation effectively alleviated the inhibitory effect. After treatment with T. harzianum, the plant height, stem diameter, leaf number, and biomass of citrus seedlings increased significantly. The net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO₂ concentration, transpiration rate, and chlorophyll content were significantly increased by T. harzianum inoculation. Meanwhile, T. harzianum inoculation increased the content of nitrogen, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper, and decreased sodium content in citrus seedlings. In addition, T. harzianum inoculation significantly up-regulated the expression of stress-responsive genes such as SOSs, PIPs, TIP1, TIP4, and TIP9. In conclusion, T. harzianum inoculation improved the salt stress tolerance of citrus seedlings through increasing photosynthetic efficiency, promoting nutrient absorption, sodium efflux, and water utilization via up-regulating the expression of SOSs and aquaporin genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Citrus Cultivation Management and Quality)

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24 pages, 16542 KB

Open AccessArticle

Wampee-YOLO: A High-Precision Detection Model for Dense Clustered Wampee in Natural Orchard Scenario

by Zhiwei Li, Yusha Xie, Jingjie Wang, Guogang Huang, Longzhen Yu, Kai Zhang, Junlong Li and Changyu Liu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020232 - 14 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6117

Abstract

Wampee (Clausena lansium) harvesting currently relies heavily on manual labor, but automation is significantly hindered by clustered fruit growth patterns, small fruit sizes, and complex orchard backgrounds, which make accurate detection highly challenging. This study proposes Wampee-YOLO, a lightweight and high-precision [...] Read more.

Wampee (Clausena lansium) harvesting currently relies heavily on manual labor, but automation is significantly hindered by clustered fruit growth patterns, small fruit sizes, and complex orchard backgrounds, which make accurate detection highly challenging. This study proposes Wampee-YOLO, a lightweight and high-precision model based on the YOLO11n architecture, specifically designed for real-time wampee detection in natural orchard environments. The proposed model integrates several architectural enhancements: the RFEMAConv module for expanded receptive fields, an AIFI module for improved small target interaction, and a C2PSA-MSCADYT structure to boost multi-scale adaptability. Additionally, a Triplet Attention mechanism strengthens multi-dimensional feature representation, while an AFPN-Pro2345 neck structure optimizes cross-scale feature fusion. Experimental results demonstrate that Wampee-YOLO achieves an mAP₅₀ of 90.3%, a precision of 92.1%, and F1 score of 87%. This represents a significant 3.4% mAP₅₀ improvement over the YOLO11n baseline, with a slight increase to 3.28 M parameters. Ablation studies further confirm that the AFPN-Pro2345 module provides the most substantial performance gain, increasing mAP₅₀ by 2.4%. The model effectively balances computational efficiency with detection accuracy. These findings indicate that Wampee-YOLO offers a robust and efficient visual detection solution suitable for deployment on resource-constrained edge devices in smart orchard applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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15 pages, 2802 KB

Open AccessArticle

Rhodiola rosea L. Essential Oil Reduces Postharvest Strawberry Decay by Disrupting Botrytis cinerea Cell Wall and Membrane Integrity

by Ziyu Wang, Jiahua Li, Jie Zhong, Siling Chen, Endian Hu, Chunxiu Wan, Nengguo Tao and Xiaoli Tan

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020231 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1361

Abstract

Botrytis cinerea poses a major threat to postharvest strawberries, causing significant losses due to gray mold. As a plant-derived antifungal agent, Rhodiola rosea L. essential oil (REO) possesses considerable healthcare benefits. However, its effectiveness and underlying mechanisms in the maintenance of postharvest products [...] Read more.

Botrytis cinerea poses a major threat to postharvest strawberries, causing significant losses due to gray mold. As a plant-derived antifungal agent, Rhodiola rosea L. essential oil (REO) possesses considerable healthcare benefits. However, its effectiveness and underlying mechanisms in the maintenance of postharvest products remain poorly understood. This study demonstrated that REO at 0.5 µL/mL completely inhibited the growth of B. cinerea under in vitro conditions. In vivo fumigation treatment with REO alleviated the severity of gray mold in strawberry fruit. Additionally, REO decreased natural decay and positively impacted marketability, as evidenced by higher firmness, total soluble solids, and ascorbic acid contents, as well as more favorable color attributes. Further investigations involving scanning electron microscopy, calcofluor white (CFW) staining, propidium iodide (PI) staining, 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate assay, and cellular leakage tests were conducted to investigate the effects of REO treatment on gray mold mycelium. Results showed that REO treatment induced severe morphological distortions and collapse of mycelium. Within 30 min of exposure, REO triggered a sharp increase in PI fluorescence accompanied by a decrease in CFW fluorescence, without inducing an elevation in intracellular reactive oxygen species levels. The elevated leakage of nucleic acids and soluble proteins further confirmed that REO compromised the integrity of the cell barrier in B. cinerea. Collectively, these findings indicate that REO exerts potent antifungal activity by disrupting the integrity and functionality of B. cinerea cellular barriers, thereby reducing postharvest decay and positively impacting the marketability of strawberry fruit. Taken together, our findings suggest that REO represents a promising natural alternative for environmentally sustainable postharvest protection of strawberries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Preservation and Processing Techniques for Horticultural Products)

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19 pages, 3223 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Irrigation, Water Deficit and Crop Load Effects on ‘Hass’ Avocado Fruit Size Under New Zealand Growing Conditions

by Teruko Kaneko, Nick Gould, David Campbell and Michael John Clearwater

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020230 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2024

Abstract

The potential for ‘Hass’ avocado production is predicted to increase with climate warming in New Zealand, a country where avocado orchards often lack irrigation because of a cooler and wetter climate compared to most other major growing regions. However, intermittent summer droughts are [...] Read more.

The potential for ‘Hass’ avocado production is predicted to increase with climate warming in New Zealand, a country where avocado orchards often lack irrigation because of a cooler and wetter climate compared to most other major growing regions. However, intermittent summer droughts are also predicted to increase in frequency and intensity. This study assessed the effects of summer soil water deficits on fruit growth of ‘Hass’ avocado in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, by comparing irrigated and non-irrigated treatments. Rainfall was variable over the three years of the study (2016–17, 2017–18, and 2018–19), but each summer there was a dry period without any rainfall for 2–3 weeks that decreased soil water content in the non-irrigated treatment. Fruit number and final yields were highly variable between trees and years, an effect of variable fruit set during the spring flowering period, and were not affected by the irrigation treatments because soil water deficits did not occur until later, during the summer. Increasing tree crop load caused decreasing individual fruit weight and dry matter content at harvest. However, in the year with the highest average crop load a dry period occurred during early fruit development, and mean fruit weight at harvest was decreased by 26.4 g (10%) in the non-irrigated treatment, an effect that was only apparent after accounting for the effects of variable crop load. The trees responded to dry conditions by reducing stomatal conductance (g_s) by 20%, preventing midday leaf water potential (Ψ_leaf) from decreasing below −0.25 MPa. Irrigation of avocado under the conditions at this site is therefore recommended when soil tension decreases below −30 kPa at 30 cm depth, and adverse effects on fruit growth are likely when tension decreases below −50 kPa. Irregular bearing of avocado under New Zealand growing conditions causes highly variable crop loads that obscure economically significant effects of mild to moderate water deficits on fruit growth. However, irrigation is still an important consideration for avocado production under current growing conditions and is likely to become more important under future climate scenarios as the risk of summer droughts increases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orchard Management Under Climate Change: 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 4451 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Transcriptome–Metabolome Analysis Uncovers Organ-Specific Divergence in Floral Scent Biosynthesis of Nymphaea Hybrid

by Qi Zhou, Feng Zhao, Huihui Zhang, Yuxi Wang, Xiaodong Yang and Tao Huang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020229 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 830

Abstract

Fragrance lotus (Nymphaea hybrid) is a tropical interspecific cultivar characterized by large flowers and high scent intensity, offering dual potential for ornamental commerce and natural fragrance extraction. Floral scent determines both economic value and pollinator attraction, yet the biosynthetic organs and metabolic [...] Read more.

Fragrance lotus (Nymphaea hybrid) is a tropical interspecific cultivar characterized by large flowers and high scent intensity, offering dual potential for ornamental commerce and natural fragrance extraction. Floral scent determines both economic value and pollinator attraction, yet the biosynthetic organs and metabolic routes remain undocumented. To fill this gap, single flowers of the high-aroma cultivar ‘Eldorado’ at full anthesis were dissected into petal (PE), stamen (ST) and pistil (PI); each organ was subjected to untargeted LC-MS/MS metabolomics and Illumina RNA-seq. Organ-specific gene–metabolite co-expression networks were constructed by pairwise integration of transcript and metabolite matrices. All three organs formed distinct clusters in principal-component space. Compared with PE, 6221, 3352 and 5891 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) together with 30, 24 and 39 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) were identified in ST, PI and PE, respectively. The phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway (map00940) was the only route simultaneously enriched at both transcript and metabolite levels; 59 DEGs mapped to this pathway co-linearly with three scent-related DAMs. ST contained the highest concentration of scent-active volatiles; phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), cinnamate-4-hydroxylase (C4H), 4-coumarate-CoA ligase (4CL) and benzaldehyde reductase (BAR) were all significantly up-regulated in this organ, driving the accumulation of p-coumaric acid that is subsequently channeled into benzyl alcohol via side-chain cleavage and BAR-mediated reduction, thereby generating the characteristic fragrance of Nymphaea. This study provides the first organ-level resolution of scent biosynthesis and metabolic flux partitioning in fragrance lotus, furnishing molecular targets for directed aroma improvement and efficient natural fragrance extraction. Full article

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

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19 pages, 2158 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nitrogen Application Timing on the Photosynthetic Traits and Essential Oil Yield of Cinnamomum camphora var. linalooliferum Coppice Stands

by Jie Ma, Jiao Zhao, Jie Zhang, Qingqing Liu, Lei Lei, Jiexi Hou and Changlong Xiao

Horticulturae 2026, 12(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12020228 - 12 Feb 2026

Viewed by 702

Abstract

To investigate the effects of nitrogen application timing on photosynthetic traits and essential oil yield of Cinnamomum camphora var. linalooliferum coppice stands, an experiment was conducted with different nitrogen allocation ratios at coppicing, topdressing in June and August using a constant nitrogen amount [...] Read more.

To investigate the effects of nitrogen application timing on photosynthetic traits and essential oil yield of Cinnamomum camphora var. linalooliferum coppice stands, an experiment was conducted with different nitrogen allocation ratios at coppicing, topdressing in June and August using a constant nitrogen amount of 270 kg·ha⁻¹. Plant growth, photosynthetic traits, and total above-ground essential oil yield were measured dynamically. Nitrogen application timing significantly affected photosynthetic performance, biomass accumulation, and essential oil yield (p < 0.05), showing clear stage-specific responses. It was found that early growth favored higher basal nitrogen fertilization, whereas middle-to-late growth benefited from increased topdressing. Principal component analysis revealed strong coordination among photosynthesis, growth traits, and essential oil yield, with N5 closely associated with high essential oil yield per plant (TEOy_p), plant height (PH), leaf area index (LAI), relative chlorophyll value (SPAD), and biomass traits. Correlation analysis further confirmed the stage-specific regulatory effects of photosynthetic traits and plant growth on essential oil yield. Nitrogen fertilization at coppicing mainly enhanced photosynthetic efficiency to support essential oil formation, whereas topdressing promoted vegetative growth and biomass accumulation to exploit yield potential. These findings will provide theoretical support and practical guidance for efficient nitrogen management in high-yield cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soil and Plant Nutrient Management for Optimizing Horticultural Crop Yields and Soil Sustainability)

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Horticulturae, Volume 12, Issue 2 (February 2026) – 131 articles

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