Horticulturae

18 pages, 896 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Morphological and Biochemical Attributes of Brassica cretica Populations Grown Under Drought Tolerance Conditions

by Theodora Ntanasi, Efthalia Stathi, Ioannis Karavidas, George P. Spyrou, Evangelos Giannothanasis, Maria-Eleftheria Zografaki, Panayiotis Trigas, Eleni Tani and Georgia Ntatsi

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010053 - 31 Dec 2025

Viewed by 2028

Abstract

Drought stress is a major constraint on crop productivity in the Mediterranean region. Brassica crops are particularly valued in this region for their adaptability, nutritional benefits, and economic importance in sustainable farming systems. However, their productivity is highly sensitive to water deficits, necessitating [...] Read more.

Drought stress is a major constraint on crop productivity in the Mediterranean region. Brassica crops are particularly valued in this region for their adaptability, nutritional benefits, and economic importance in sustainable farming systems. However, their productivity is highly sensitive to water deficits, necessitating the identification of drought-resilient genotypes. This study investigated the responses of five wild Brassica cretica populations and a commercial Brassica oleracea cultivar to a 50% reduction in irrigation, evaluating key physiological traits, leaf nutrient composition, and antioxidant activity. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse facilities of the Laboratory of Vegetable Production, Agricultural University of Athens. The results revealed significant variation in drought tolerance among the tested populations. Specifically, an ecotype of B. cretica subsp. cretica (C: Akrokorinthos) and B. cretica subsp. laconica (E) showed substantial reductions in biomass, leaf area, and leaf number, whereas B. cretica subsp. aegaea (A: Manikia and B: Ymittos) and another ecotype of B. cretica subsp. cretica (D: Lasithi) maintained stable growth under water-limited conditions. Water deficit also significantly impacted leaf mineral composition, increasing NO₃⁻ and Na⁺ levels while decreasing P, Zn, and Mn. Additionally, drought stress enhanced antioxidant capacity and secondary metabolite production, as indicated by elevated ferric reducing antioxidant power, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content. Notably, the two studied populations of B. cretica subsp. aegaea (A: Manikia, B: Ymittos) and the population of B. cretica subsp. cretica from Lasithi (Crete) (D) exhibit promising drought tolerance, suggesting their potential for cultivation or breeding in water-limited environments. This research contributes to the broader effort of identifying favorable traits in crop wild relatives and to utilize these valuable genetic resources to develop climate-resilient crops for Mediterranean agriculture, where sustainable water use is critical for food security. Full article

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

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24 pages, 2016 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Greenhouse Performance of Anemone and Ranunculus Under Northern Climates: Effects of Temperature, Vernalization, and Storage Organ Traits

by Sara Benchaa and Line Lapointe

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010043 - 29 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Optimizing the growing conditions of Anemone coronaria and Ranunculus asiaticus for cut-flower production under northern greenhouse conditions requires a better understanding of the environmental and cultivation practices influencing emergence, flowering, and flower quality. This study evaluated the effect of storage organ reuse, along [...] Read more.

Optimizing the growing conditions of Anemone coronaria and Ranunculus asiaticus for cut-flower production under northern greenhouse conditions requires a better understanding of the environmental and cultivation practices influencing emergence, flowering, and flower quality. This study evaluated the effect of storage organ reuse, along with vernalization conditions, growth temperature, growing season, and planting method (in-ground vs. containers) on plant phenology and flower yield and quality. Flower quantity and quality were unaffected by storage organ age, confirming that these organs can be stored and reused the following season. Vernalization at temperatures of 7 °C or 10 °C advanced flowering compared to warmer vernalization in all cultivars, and increased flower yield compared to non-vernalization. Growth under cool conditions (15/10 °C day/night) extended the production period and improved floral quality by promoting longer stems and delaying senescence. Short to moderate photoperiods (11–13 h in the winter vs. 15 h in the spring) and low light intensity, typical of winter, promoted stem elongation and marketable flower yield, whereas increasing photoperiod and temperature in late spring shorten the flowering period. Ground beds provided cooler and more buffered soil conditions, improving flowering duration and yield compared to container-grown plants during springtime. These findings highlight the importance of integrating temperature management, vernalization, and tailored cultivation practices to enhance flower quality, prolong the production, and improve sustainability of cut-flower production under northern climates in both species. Full article

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

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23 pages, 1302 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Long-Term Manure Application in Urban Gardens: Impacts on Soil Fertility, Mineral Composition, and Variability

by Rafael López-Núñez, Paula Madejón-Rodríguez, José Molina-Vega and Sabina Rossini-Oliva

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010040 - 28 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Urban and peri-urban agriculture (UA) plays an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable urban development, providing socioeconomic, environmental, and educational benefits. However, UA is often linked to nutrient accumulation in soils since vegetable-growing areas typically receive substantial inputs of both organic and inorganic [...] Read more.

Urban and peri-urban agriculture (UA) plays an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable urban development, providing socioeconomic, environmental, and educational benefits. However, UA is often linked to nutrient accumulation in soils since vegetable-growing areas typically receive substantial inputs of both organic and inorganic fertilizers. This study examines soil variability in two sections of an urban allotment garden subjected to long-term manure fertilization for 12 or 16 years, with application rates up to 10–12 kg m⁻² yr⁻¹. Surface soils were analyzed for organic and inorganic carbon, total-N, available-P and -K, pH, and elemental composition using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF). Prolonged manure incorporation substantially enhanced soil fertility, as evidenced by increases in soil organic carbon (up to 3.78%), total-N (up to 0.38%), available-K (up to 412 mg kg⁻¹), and both total- and available-P (up to 2485 and 276 mg kg⁻¹, respectively). Marked shifts in mineral composition were also detected, including significant increases in total Ca, inorganic C (as calcium carbonate), Sr, and S. Despite the high manure inputs, no accumulation of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) was observed. However, pronounced spatial heterogeneity emerged among individual plots, with coefficients of variation reaching 58% for S and 47% for Zn, reflecting differences in fertilization intensity and management practices. Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) analysis proved highly effective for detecting soil compositional changes and adequate for predicting K and P availability, highlighting its value as a rapid diagnostic tool for precision agriculture. Overall, these findings demonstrate the agronomic benefits of long-term organic fertilization while emphasizing the need for careful management to avoid nutrient imbalances and ensure sustainable practices that minimize environmental risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of Organic Manures, Biostimulants, and Micronutrients in Sustainable Horticultural Production)

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25 pages, 2640 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Digital Twin Irrigation Strategies to Mitigate Drought Effects in Processing Tomatoes

by Sandra Millán, Jaume Casadesús, Jose María Vadillo and Carlos Campillo

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010028 - 26 Dec 2025

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Abstract

The increasing frequency and intensity of droughts, a direct consequence of climate change, represent one of the main threats to agriculture, especially for crops with a high water demand such as the processing tomato. The objective of this study is to evaluate the [...] Read more.

The increasing frequency and intensity of droughts, a direct consequence of climate change, represent one of the main threats to agriculture, especially for crops with a high water demand such as the processing tomato. The objective of this study is to evaluate the potential of the IrriDesK digital twin (DT) as a tool for automated irrigation management and the implementation of regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) strategies tailored to the crop’s water status and phenological stage. The trial was conducted in an experimental plot over two consecutive growing seasons (2023–2024), comparing three irrigation treatments: full irrigation based on lysimeter measurements (T1) and two RDI strategies programmed through IrriDesK (T2 and T3). The results showed water consumption reductions of 30–45% in treatments T2 and T3 compared to treatment T1, with applied volumes of 277–400 mm versus approximately 570 mm in treatment T1, thus remaining within the sustainability threshold (<500 mm, equivalent to 5000 m³ ha⁻¹). This threshold corresponds to the maximum seasonal allocation typically available for processing tomato under drought conditions in the region and was used to configure the DT’s seasonal irrigation plan. The monitoring of leaf water potential (Ψleaf) and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) confirmed the DT’s ability to dynamically adjust irrigation and maintain an adequate water status during critical crop phases. In terms of productivity, treatment T1 achieved the highest yields (≈135 t ha⁻¹), while RDI strategies reduced production to 90–108 t ha⁻¹, but improved fruit quality, with increases in total soluble solids content of up to 10–15% (°Brix). These results demonstrate that IrriDesK is an effective tool for the optimization of water use while maintaining crop profitability and enhancing the resilience of processing tomatoes to drought scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Irrigation and Water Management Strategies for Horticultural Systems: 2nd Edition)

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25 pages, 6029 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Juvenile Achachairu Trees (Garcinia humilis (Vahl) C.D. Adams) to Elevated Soil Salinity Induced by Saline Irrigation

by Federico W. Sanchez, Jonathan H. Crane, Haimanote K. Bayabil, Ali Sarkhosh, Muhammad A. Shahid and Bruce Schaffer

Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010020 - 25 Dec 2025

Viewed by 627

Abstract

Soil salinity affects large areas of the world and results in horticultural and biodiversity losses in tropical regions. Garcinia humilis (Vahl) C.D. Adams, fam. Clusiaceae, commonly known as achachairu, is a neotropical evergreen fruit tree native to the Amazonian forests in Bolivia. Its [...] Read more.

Soil salinity affects large areas of the world and results in horticultural and biodiversity losses in tropical regions. Garcinia humilis (Vahl) C.D. Adams, fam. Clusiaceae, commonly known as achachairu, is a neotropical evergreen fruit tree native to the Amazonian forests in Bolivia. Its tolerance and responses to soil salinity exclusive of other stressors and within a range of salinity levels have not been reported. This study assessed the physiological, biochemical, and morphological responses of G. humilis to different levels of elevated soil salinity induced by saline irrigation. Physiological variables measured included net CO₂ assimilation (A_n), stomatal conductance of H₂O (g_s), intercellular CO₂ concentration, leaf chlorophyll index (LCI), and the ratio of variable to maximum chlorophyll fluorescence (F_v/F_m). Leaf and root nutrient analyses were performed to assess nutrient imbalances and the accumulation of toxic ions. Antioxidant responses, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase, guaiacol peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, ascorbic acid, monodehydroascorbate reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione, and glutathione reductase; reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide and superoxide radical; and lipid peroxidation as indicated by malondialdehyde were also measured. The results indicate that G. humilis tolerates elevated soil salinity induced by saline irrigation with an electrical conductivity of at least 6 dS m⁻¹, which results in stress responses without fatal consequences. Soil salinity induced by saline irrigation of 6 dS m⁻¹ reduced A_n and g_s by approximately 50% during a 30-day period, but there was no evidence of physiological damage based on the LCI or F_v/F_m. The levels of Na⁺ and Cl⁻ did not reach toxic levels, and the plants were able to prevent damaging imbalances of plant nutrients, indicating an ion-avoidance strategy. Increased antioxidant response to soil salinity induced by saline irrigation possibly prevented ROS and lipid peroxidation damage. G. humilis appears to be moderately tolerant of soil salinity induced by saline irrigation of at least 30 days at 6 dS m⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Biosaline Agriculture)

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20 pages, 604 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

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

Viewed by 1309

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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26 pages, 456 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Tree Fruit and Nut Crops at the Dawn of the Pangenomic Era

by June Labbancz and Amit Dhingra

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1537; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121537 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 866

Abstract

Tree fruit and nut crops are a critical component of the global economy, producing at least 400 million tonnes of produce in 2022 and nourishing a growing population of approximately 8 billion humans every year. Improved cultivars and growing practices depend upon an [...] Read more.

Tree fruit and nut crops are a critical component of the global economy, producing at least 400 million tonnes of produce in 2022 and nourishing a growing population of approximately 8 billion humans every year. Improved cultivars and growing practices depend upon an understanding of the molecular basis of tree traits and physiology. Over the past 20 years, the proliferation of reference genomes for tree fruit and nut crop species has transformed the study of genetics in these crops, providing a platform for resequencing analyses of large populations, enabling comparative genomic analyses between distant plant species, and allowing the development of molecular markers for use in breeding. However, reference bias and poor transferability of markers limit widespread applicability in many instances. As third-generation sequencing has become more accurate and accessible, a greater number of reference genomes have become available, enabling higher-quality assemblies and wider sampling of genomic diversity. To facilitate the effective use of multiple closely related genomes to create a reference and comparative genomics platform, tools have been developed for the creation of pangenome graphs, a data structure using nodes connected by edges to represent multiple genomes and their sequence variations. Pangenome graphs allow for singular representations of diversity within a species or even a wider genus. Pangenomic analyses at the genus-scale (e.g., Malus, Citrus) have been conducted for Malus and Citrus, and more tree fruit and nut species are likely to follow. As the number of genome sequences and pangenome resources increases, the importance of generating great quantities of transcriptomic and phenomic data will increase as well. This data is essential in the drive to connect genes to traits and overcome traditional breeding bottlenecks, which is needed to develop improved tree fruit and nut crops, which can satisfy global demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plant Genomics and Quantitative Genetics)

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16 pages, 2265 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Concentration-Dependent Effects of Foliar ZnO Nanoparticles on Growth and Nutrient Use in Young Crabapple Plants

by Qi Zhao, Meimei Qin, Suixia Lang, Mengyao Qin, Lizhi Liu, Qian Li, Dehui Zhang and Lei Li

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1535; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121535 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 628

Abstract

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have garnered increasing attention in agriculture due to their potential to enhance plant growth and nutrient use. This research investigates the concentration-dependent effects of ZnO NPs on young crabapple (Malus robusta) plants, addressing gaps in understanding [...] Read more.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) have garnered increasing attention in agriculture due to their potential to enhance plant growth and nutrient use. This research investigates the concentration-dependent effects of ZnO NPs on young crabapple (Malus robusta) plants, addressing gaps in understanding how different concentrations influence plant development. A hydroponic experiment was conducted, applying foliar treatments of 200 mg L⁻¹ ZnSO₄ (S200) and 200, 500, and 1000 mg L⁻¹ ZnO NPs (N200, N500, N100). The control group (CK) was treated with deionized water (dH₂O). Growth parameters, antioxidant enzyme activity, and nutrient contents were measured to evaluate the impact of ZnO NPs on plant development and nutrient uptake. The results showed that N200 enhanced growth, increasing plant height by 22.64%, total dry weight by 49.36%, and root length by 116.07%. In contrast, N500 and N1000 induced oxidative stress, elevating H₂O₂ and MDA by 32.02~54.43% and inhibiting growth. N200 also improved nutrient uptake, increasing K, Ca, Fe, and Zn uptake fluxes by 84.92%, 112.12%, 185.15%, and 149.92%, respectively, whereas N1000 suppressed overall nutrient uptake but increased root Ca accumulation by 64.59%. These findings suggest that ZnO NPs can enhance plant growth and nutrient utilization at low concentrations, with potential implications for agricultural practices involving nanoparticle (NP)-based fertilizers. Full article

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

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17 pages, 2276 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Mining Minor Cold Resistance Genes in V. vinifera Based on Transcriptomics

by Junli Liu, Yihan Li, Zhilei Wang, Hua Li and Hua Wang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121538 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 632

Abstract

Cold resistance is an important characteristic of sustainable development in the grape industry. The intraspecific recurrent selection in the Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera) method uses high-quality varieties as breeding materials and the substitution and accumulation of minor resistance genes, breeding high-quality [...] Read more.

Cold resistance is an important characteristic of sustainable development in the grape industry. The intraspecific recurrent selection in the Vitis vinifera (V. vinifera) method uses high-quality varieties as breeding materials and the substitution and accumulation of minor resistance genes, breeding high-quality grapes with cold resistance. This study was conducted to identify and genetically analyse the cold resistance of a V. vinifera hybrid population (Ecolly × Dunkelfelder), screen for highly resistant and sensitive plant samples, and use high-throughput sequencing to perform transcriptome sequencing and related differential gene expression analysis on each sample. The results revealed that the cold resistance of the hybrid offspring population was characterised by continuous quantitative trait inheritance, with 38 differentially expressed genes (7 upregulated genes and 31 downregulated genes) between the high resistance and high-sensitivity types. Analysis of genes related to various pathways, related to cold resistance, revealed that CYP76F10, Dxs, GERD, NMT, GDE1, glgC, and DHQ-SDH, as well as transcription factor MYB, HB, and MADS family genes, are key candidate genes for V. vinifera cold resistance research. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was used to investigate the expression characteristics of the six genes that were differentially expressed genes, the results of which were essentially consistent with the results of RNA-seq. Specifically, NMT may enhance cold resistance by enhancing membrane lipid stability. The synergistic expression pattern of CYP76F14 and Dxs suggests its key role in terpene synthesis. By exploring potential genes related to micro effects, a theoretical foundation for further exploration of new high-quality cold-resistant grape varieties has been provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Grape Stress Resistance Cultivation and Genetic Breeding)

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21 pages, 3561 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Vine Water Status Modulates the Physiological Response to Different Apical Leaf Removal Treatments in Sangiovese (Vitis vinifera L.) Grapevines

by Vincenzo Tosi, Giacomo Palai, Carmine Mattia Verosimile, Antonio Pompeiano and Claudio D’Onofrio

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1524; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121524 - 16 Dec 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 661

Abstract

Modulating the vine source–sink relationship is a proposed strategy to mitigate the detrimental effect of climate change frequently induced by elevated temperatures and water deficit conditions. In this regard, apical leaf removal could represent a reliable technique, even though its effects on grapevines [...] Read more.

Modulating the vine source–sink relationship is a proposed strategy to mitigate the detrimental effect of climate change frequently induced by elevated temperatures and water deficit conditions. In this regard, apical leaf removal could represent a reliable technique, even though its effects on grapevines subjected to different irrigation regimes are unexplored. This study aimed to clarify the effects of apical leaf removal applied before the onset of veraison (ELR) and during berry ripening (LLR, 16 °Brix) on grapevine physiology in vines subjected to full irrigation and water deficit conditions. The irrigation regimes prominently affected the vine physiological parameters over the leaf removal treatments. Both ELR and LLR vines showed transient increases in stem water potential only after the leaf removal. Consistently, the vine transpiration rate was similar between the leaf removal treatments, and even higher water consumption was measured in ELR well-watered vines, associated with new lateral growth. Significant increases in leaf gas-exchange parameters following ELR and LLR were observed only on the measurement dates immediately after the treatment application. However, both ELR and LLR vines consistently exhibited higher daytime net photosynthetic rates than the control, particularly in the afternoon and in the later stages of the season. These conditions led to a significant increase in the leaf total soluble solid concentration in LLR vines subjected to water deficit, which was also associated with a high carbon export rate. Our findings suggest that although apical leaf removal has a limiting effect on reducing the impact of water deficit on vine physiology, it can be an effective agronomic strategy to boost leaf carbon fixation and exportation, particularly when applied during ripening. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

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20 pages, 3240 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Emergence of Autotoxicity in Closed Hydroponic Cultivation of Basil and Its Recovery by Compost Tea Application

by Andrea De Sio, Mauro Moreno, Stefano Mazzoleni, Stefania Cozzolino, Pietro Caggiano, Giovanna Ceriello, Giuliano Bonanomi, Chiara Cirillo and Fabrizio Carteni

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1493; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121493 - 10 Dec 2025

Viewed by 847

Abstract

Hydroponic systems enable constant and high-quality crop yields while avoiding soil-borne diseases and significant pedoclimatic limitations. Recycling nutrient solutions (NSs) makes these systems more environmentally friendly, but long-term cultivation often leads to a decline in the quality and quantity of final products. Biochar [...] Read more.

Hydroponic systems enable constant and high-quality crop yields while avoiding soil-borne diseases and significant pedoclimatic limitations. Recycling nutrient solutions (NSs) makes these systems more environmentally friendly, but long-term cultivation often leads to a decline in the quality and quantity of final products. Biochar and compost tea (CT) are an emerging nature-based solution known to improve both soil and plant health. This study investigates whether biochar or CT treatments can counteract the physiological and productive decline observed in recycled hydroponic systems. We established a closed floating raft system in a controlled-environment greenhouse, cultivated basil (Ocimum basilicum L. cv. Eleonora) over five cycles (conditioning phase), and then performed a last cycle (recovery phase) with the application of either compost tea or biochar filtration. Plant physiology and growth parameters were monitored. As expected, basil plants grown in untreated recycled NS showed significantly lower yields and dry matter content and reduced physiological values compared to controls (fresh NS). Among the applied treatments, biochar did not show any recovery function, whereas CT treatments fully restored physiological parameters and growth performance in a concentration-dependent manner. Recycled hydroponic systems often lead to physiological decline in plants, which can be effectively counteracted by CT treatments. Full article

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

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24 pages, 9089 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Uptake Efficiency of Nitrogen Forms and Kinetic Parameters of Grafted ‘Chardonnay’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ Vines

by Adriele Tassinari, Matheus Severo de Souza Kulmann, Gustavo Nogara de Siqueira, Guilherme Zanon Peripolli, Bianca Goularte Dias, Jacson Hindersmann, Amanda Veridiana Krug, Raissa Schwalbert, Álvaro Luís Pasquetti Berghetti, Luciane Almeri Tabaldi, Fernando Teixeira Nicoloso, Maristela Machado Araujo and Gustavo Brunetto

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121480 - 8 Dec 2025

Viewed by 675

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is a key nutrient for grapevine development, influencing from biomass formation to photosynthetic efficiency and grape quality. However, despite the widespread adoption of grafted plants in modern viticulture, understanding of how different scion–rootstock combinations modulate the uptake of different forms of [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) is a key nutrient for grapevine development, influencing from biomass formation to photosynthetic efficiency and grape quality. However, despite the widespread adoption of grafted plants in modern viticulture, understanding of how different scion–rootstock combinations modulate the uptake of different forms of N present in the soil remains limited. In this context, assessing the nutrient uptake efficiency of grapevines can be a strategy for selecting efficient cultivars, especially in nutritionally poor environments. This study aimed to assess the uptake efficiency of N forms by ‘Chardonnay’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grafted onto rootstocks ‘IAC 572’, ‘Paulsen 1103’ and ‘SO4’. Vines were subjected to Hoagland’s nutrient solution at 50% total strength for 21 days, followed by nutrient depletion and a 72 h kinetic uptake assay. Morphological, physiological, biochemical and uptake-related parameters—V_max, K_m, C_min and influx (I)—were assessed. ‘Chardonnay’ grafted onto the ‘IAC 572’ rootstock was the most efficient in the uptake of both NO₃⁻ and NH₄⁺, as it showed the lowest K_m and C_min values and a high influx in relation to the other grapevines evaluated. In general, the ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grafted onto the ‘Paulsen 1103’ and ‘IAC 572’ exhibited the highest affinity (i.e., lower K_m) for N forms, indicating that these combinations are more adaptable to environments with low N availability or require lower N inputs. These findings highlight the importance of using kinetic parameters in plant selection, because they can point out the efficient use of and ability to uptake different N forms, in addition to selecting plants that are efficient at uptaking nutrients in nutritionally depleted soils, or even physiologically efficient with low fertilization rates. Full article

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16 pages, 3014 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Study of Pigment Content, Nutrient Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Different Color Peppers at Different Maturity Stages

by June Wang, Jinyao He, Ruiling Zhang, Na Li, Shufei Zhang, Jiaxin Li and Sheng Sun

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1481; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121481 - 8 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 940

Abstract

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), an annual herbaceous plant in the Solanaceae family, possesses significant edible and medicinal value. Studies have shown that there are significant differences in the plant chemical constituents and antioxidant activity among different colored peppers, but there have been [...] Read more.

Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), an annual herbaceous plant in the Solanaceae family, possesses significant edible and medicinal value. Studies have shown that there are significant differences in the plant chemical constituents and antioxidant activity among different colored peppers, but there have been fewer studies on the relationship between pigment content, plant chemical constituents and antioxidant activity in peppers. Therefore, this study divided twenty pepper accessions of pepper materials into four categories based on color changes and measured the bioactive compounds, pigment content and antioxidant activity of these four types of peppers at different maturity stages and conducted correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that yellow pepper cultivars had higher levels of vitamin C (Vc), and Class IV (purple-to-red transitioning pepper cultivars) had higher total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and anthocyanin content in the early fruit stage. Correlation analysis showed that Class IV (purple-to-red transitioning pepper cultivars) had higher levels of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity. The antioxidant content in immature fruits was high, but decreased as the fruits matured. This study focuses on pepper-derived bioactive compounds and their antioxidant activity, providing a scientific basis for developing natural antioxidant products, expanding pepper resource utilization, and guiding pepper variety selection and cultivation management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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18 pages, 1213 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Contrasting Responses of N₂O Mitigation to Different Nitrification Inhibitors in Tea Plantation Soils

by Wei Hua, Siyun Niu, Chenguang Zhao, Jie Wang, Xiangde Yang, Yuanzhi Shi and Kang Ni

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1470; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121470 - 5 Dec 2025

Viewed by 572

Abstract

Tea plantations are a hot-spot source of nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions in the agricultural system. Using nitrification inhibitors (NIs) is a promising way to mitigate agricultural N₂O emissions and has been widely tested in many croplands. However, the efficiency [...] Read more.

Tea plantations are a hot-spot source of nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions in the agricultural system. Using nitrification inhibitors (NIs) is a promising way to mitigate agricultural N₂O emissions and has been widely tested in many croplands. However, the efficiency of different NIs and whether there are soil-specific effects are still unclear in tea plantations with typical acidic soil conditions. This study evaluated the effects of three widely used NIs, i.e., dicyandiamide (DCD), 3,4-dimethylpyrazole phosphate (DMPP), and 2-chloro-6-(trichloromethyl) pyridine (Nitrapyrin), through a lab incubation trial, on the nitrification suppression, N₂O emissions, and ammonia-oxidizing microbial communities in two tea plantation soils with contrasting physicochemical properties (pH and texture). During the 50-day incubation, the soil with a higher pH and coarse texture (TA) exhibited a four-times-higher apparent nitrification ratio (ANR) than the more acidic and clay soil (HZ). Nitrification inhibitor addition resulted in about a 60% and 80% reduction in the ANR in HZ and TA soils, respectively. During the entire incubation, ammonium sulfate (N) addition without NIs emitted N₂O at 64.1 ± 1.2 and 61.5 ± 0.4 μg N kg⁻¹ (mean ± standard deviation, and the same in the following text) in the HZ and TA soils, respectively. Compared with the N alone, the N₂O mitigation efficiency of DCD, DMPP, and Nitrapyrin was 38.3% ± 0.4% (standard deviation), 33.8% ± 0.99%, and 36.5% ± 0.59% in the HZ soil and 94.1% ± 0.39%, 52.8% ± 1.05%, and 95.6% ± 0.65% in the TA soil, respectively. Nitrapyrin more effectively suppressed both ammonia-oxidizing archaeal (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacterial (AOB) abundance, particularly in the acidic soil (HZ), where ammonia-oxidizing archaea dominate nitrification. These results revealed the pivotal role of soil properties in controlling NI efficiency and highlighted Nitrapyrin as a potential superior nitrification inhibitor for N₂O mitigation under the tested conditions in this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Soil Management for Tea Plantations)

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13 pages, 1797 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of the Leaf Structure and Physiological Response of Two Peach Genotypes in Relation to Powdery Mildew Resistance

by Ju Yu, Yong Li, Ze Yuan, Lirong Wang and Cuiyun Wu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1457; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121457 - 2 Dec 2025

Viewed by 636

Abstract

Powdery mildew is one of the major diseases of peach. To clarify the relationships between peach powdery mildew resistance and leaf structure and defensive enzyme activities, this study used the resistant genotype ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ (Prunus davidiana) and the susceptible [...] Read more.

Powdery mildew is one of the major diseases of peach. To clarify the relationships between peach powdery mildew resistance and leaf structure and defensive enzyme activities, this study used the resistant genotype ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ (Prunus davidiana) and the susceptible genotype ‘Shache Lürou No.3’ (Prunus ferganensis) as a control. Resistance was evaluated through artificial inoculation with powdery mildew conidia (Podosphaera tridactyla). Key indicators including leaf wax content, stomatal characteristics, leaf transverse structure, and the activities of three defense enzymes were assessed and the relationship between these traits and resistance was analyzed. The results showed that ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ exhibited stronger resistance to powdery mildew than ‘Shache Lürou No.3’. ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ leaves exhibited a significantly higher (p < 0.01) wax content and a significantly lower stomatal density relative to ‘Shache Lürou No.3’. However, the size of individual stomata (long diameter, short diameter, circumference, area) did not differ significantly between the two genotypes. Microstructurally, ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ leaves had significantly greater fenestrated tissue, lower epidermis, palisade cell layers, and overall leaf thickness. Its leaf tissue structure was also significantly more compact, with a higher compactness-to-openness ratio, and significantly less cellular laxity than ‘Shache Lürou No.3’. Following inoculation with powdery mildew, ‘Zhou Xing Shan Tao’ leaves accumulated hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and malondialdehyde (MDA) more rapidly and to a greater extent. The activities of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) defense enzymes also increased faster and were significantly higher than in ‘Shache Lürou No.3’. In conclusion, leaf structural traits such as wax content and stomatal density combined with pathogenicity assessments serve as effective phenotypic indicators for evaluating powdery mildew resistance in Prunus species. Full article

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

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39 pages, 1279 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Biostimulants in Fruit Crop Production: Impacts on Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality

by Berta Gonçalves, Marlene Santos, Vânia Silva, Ana Rodrigues, Ivo Oliveira, Tiago Lopes, Neerakkal Sujeeth and Kieran J. Guinan

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1452; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121452 - 1 Dec 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3525

Abstract

Modern fruit crop production increasingly seeks sustainable strategies to enhance growth, yield, and fruit quality while minimizing environmental impacts. Plant biostimulants—naturally derived substances or beneficial microorganisms, such as seaweed and plant extracts, Plant-Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), humic substances, protein hydrolysates, and Si—emerge as promising [...] Read more.

Modern fruit crop production increasingly seeks sustainable strategies to enhance growth, yield, and fruit quality while minimizing environmental impacts. Plant biostimulants—naturally derived substances or beneficial microorganisms, such as seaweed and plant extracts, Plant-Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR), humic substances, protein hydrolysates, and Si—emerge as promising tools to achieve these goals by stimulating key physiological and biochemical processes. They can improve nutrient uptake and efficiency, modulate hormonal and metabolic pathways, and enhance the activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, leading to improved plant vitality and fruit quality. Biostimulants also influence rhizosphere microbial communities and soil health, promoting nutrient cycling, beneficial microbial diversity, and soil structure. This review evaluates the application of biostimulants in fruit crops and their effects on growth, physiology, productivity, fruit quality, both chemical and nutritional composition and physical parameters. Challenges related to variability in efficacy, formulation standardization, and crop-specific responses are discussed, alongside future perspectives on integrating biostimulants into sustainable orchard management. Overall, biostimulants represent multifunctional tools that support both productivity and ecological sustainability in modern fruit production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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19 pages, 3424 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improving Sustainable Vegetable Production with Biochar and Chitosan Xerogel Combination Under Water and Fertilizer Stress

by I-Chun Pan, Chen-An Jiang, Wan-Yi Chiou and Yi-Chun Chen

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1448; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121448 - 30 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 964

Abstract

Global warming has intensified water scarcity, while excessive fertilizer use has caused soil acidification and limited nutrient availability. This study investigated the effects of biochar and chitosan xerogel on water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.) growth under water- and fertilizer-deficient conditions. Individually, either [...] Read more.

Global warming has intensified water scarcity, while excessive fertilizer use has caused soil acidification and limited nutrient availability. This study investigated the effects of biochar and chitosan xerogel on water spinach (Ipomoea aquatica Forsk.) growth under water- and fertilizer-deficient conditions. Individually, either biochar or chitosan xerogel provided limited improvement. However, the combined application of 4% biochar and 0.8% chitosan xerogel significantly restored plant performance. Under water deficiency, fresh, stem, and leaf weights increased by 1.2-, 1.3-, and 1.7-fold, while plant height and stem diameter rose by 1.2- and 1.3-fold. Similar improvements were observed under fertilizer deficiency, with up to 1.3-fold, 2.0-fold, and 1.4-fold increases in fresh, stem and leaf weight. Chlorophyll and β-carotene contents were also enhanced under both stress conditions. Additionally, the dual amendment improved uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and manganese (Mn), achieving growth comparable to optimal irrigation and fertilization. These findings demonstrate the synergistic potential of biochar and chitosan xerogel to enhance water and nutrient efficiency, supporting sustainable agriculture under resource limitations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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38 pages, 17385 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Breeding for Disease Resistance in Cucumber: Current Status, Genetic Insights, and Genomic Resources

by Simranjot Kaur, Shallu Thakur, Prerna Sabharwal and Geoffrey Meru

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1440; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121440 - 28 Nov 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2755

Abstract

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a globally important crop valued for both fresh consumption and processing, particularly in the United States. It was the first specialty crop among horticultural crops with a publicly available draft genome, providing a foundation for molecular breeding [...] Read more.

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is a globally important crop valued for both fresh consumption and processing, particularly in the United States. It was the first specialty crop among horticultural crops with a publicly available draft genome, providing a foundation for molecular breeding and trait discovery. However, cucumber production faces significant yield losses due to a wide range of biotic stresses. The crop is highly susceptible to fungal, viral, and bacterial pathogens throughout its lifecycle. To combat these challenges, breeders deploy conventional and contemporary breeding strategies to develop disease-resistant cultivars. Advances in high-throughput sequencing and genomic tools, such as quantitative trait loci mapping, genome-wide association studies, and genomic selection, have accelerated the identification and subsequent integration of resistance genes and loci into elite cucumber germplasm. This review highlights recent progress in resistance breeding for biotic stress management in cucumber, with a focus on major diseases caused by fungal, viral, and bacterial pathogens. It emphasizes the role of genomic tools, the discovery of key resistance genes and QTLs, and the potential of modern breeding approaches to improve crop resilience. Continued innovation and integration of emerging technologies will be essential for developing durable, broad-spectrum resistance in future cucumber cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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11 pages, 722 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impact of Light Spectra and Substrate Composition on the Bioefficiency, Nutritional Content, and Morphology of Oyster Mushrooms

by Chrisa Whitmore, Donald Coon, Bree Rodriguez, Karen Fisher and Barry Pryor

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1430; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121430 - 26 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1024

Abstract

Mushrooms are commercially cultivated in controlled environment agriculture facilities in which the parameters of temperature, humidity, and CO₂ are closely controlled. In contrast to plant production, variable lighting is generally not a parameter that mushroom producers utilize. In this study, P. ostreatus [...] Read more.

Mushrooms are commercially cultivated in controlled environment agriculture facilities in which the parameters of temperature, humidity, and CO₂ are closely controlled. In contrast to plant production, variable lighting is generally not a parameter that mushroom producers utilize. In this study, P. ostreatus, the pearl oyster mushroom, was cultivated under one of three LED light spectra: blue (450 nm), red (625 nm), or white (broad spectrum) at an intensity of 5 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹. Substrates used for production consisted of a 70/30 mixture of straw/cottonseed or straw/mesquite bean pod, all of which were locally sourced in Arizona. Bioefficiency (BE), nutrient profile, and morphology were assessed post-production. Light spectra had no significant effect on BE, beta glucan, total amino acids, or total antioxidant content. However, red light exposure increased the number of caps per cluster by 197% and reduced cap diameter by 55%. The straw/cottonseed substrate significantly increased BE by 77% over the straw/mesquite substrate, increased levels of total protein by 9%, and increased levels of glutamic acid, arginine, and histidine by 11%, 24%, and 33% respectively. Interestingly, the straw/mesquite substrate resulted in a significant increase in total amino acid and beta glucan content over the straw/cottonseed substrate by 8 and 18%, respectively. These results illustrate how light spectra and substrate mixture can significantly impact nutritional value and production qualities of oyster mushrooms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Technologies and Cultivation Practices in Greenhouse Horticulture)

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13 pages, 1986 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Increasing γ-Aminobutyric Acid Content in Dwarf Cherry Tomato Using CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Gene Editing

by Danna Yu, Zhiqiang Meng, Fanhui Kong, Ning Gao, Kanglong Liu, Yun Deng, Li Zong, Xingping Zhang and Zhiguo Han

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1423; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121423 - 25 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1188

Abstract

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is considered an important bioactive compound that improves sleep quality and regulates blood pressure. Tomatoes are an ideal horticultural crop that can accumulate a high level of GABA in fruits. The development of higher-GABA tomatoes has significant market potential. In [...] Read more.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is considered an important bioactive compound that improves sleep quality and regulates blood pressure. Tomatoes are an ideal horticultural crop that can accumulate a high level of GABA in fruits. The development of higher-GABA tomatoes has significant market potential. In this study, we edited the SlGAD3 gene to increase GABA content in the dwarf cherry tomato, WEIMEI T102. After transformation using the Agrobacterium-mediated method, we identified several SlGAD3 mutation lines, which showed changed GABA levels compared to the recipient line. Molecular characterization showed stable trait inheritance for multiple generations. The GABA level in fruits also stably accumulated for multiple generations, which significantly increased up to about 1.9 mg/g FW in E13-13. These results indicate that it is feasible to increase the GABA content in dwarf cherry tomatoes by using gene editing technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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15 pages, 1458 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Evaluation of Organic and Synthetic Fertilizers on Lettuce Yield and Metabolomic Profiles

by Ana García-Rández, Luciano Orden, Silvia Sánchez-Méndez, Francisco Javier Andreu-Rodríguez, José Antonio Sáez-Tovar, Encarnación Martínez-Sabater, María de los Ángeles Bustamante, María Dolores Pérez-Murcia and Raúl Moral

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1421; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121421 - 24 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1849

Abstract

The excessive use of synthetic fertilizers in agriculture has raised environmental concerns, prompting the search for sustainable alternatives, such as organic amendments. This study evaluated the agronomic performance, nutrient use efficiency and metabolomic profiles of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. baby leaf) [...] Read more.

The excessive use of synthetic fertilizers in agriculture has raised environmental concerns, prompting the search for sustainable alternatives, such as organic amendments. This study evaluated the agronomic performance, nutrient use efficiency and metabolomic profiles of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. var. baby leaf) cultivated using synthetic and organic (olive mill waste-based compost pellets and sewage sludge) in a controlled pot experiment. The treatments included three doses of inorganic fertilizer and two organic fertilizers applied at equivalent nitrogen (N) rates, alongside an unfertilized control. Soil physicochemical properties, plant biomass, nutrient uptake and metabolite profiles, including amino acids, sugars and organic acids, were analyzed. Inorganic fertilization rapidly increased soil mineral N and phosphorus (P), enhancing leaf chlorophyll, canopy development and fresh biomass, and promoting the accumulation of reducing sugars (p < 0.05). However, it reduced amino acid and phenolic levels, indicating a metabolic shift towards growth at the expense of stress and antioxidant compounds. Sewage sludge increased soil organic matter and amino acid and sucrose accumulation, but also induced stress-related metabolites. Pelletized compost maintained an intermediate level of nutrient availability, preserved phenolic compounds and improved phosphorus use efficiency. This surpassed the results achieved with sewage sludge in terms of dry matter yield, despite limited short-term growth stimulation. These findings highlight the potential of integrating moderate mineral fertilization with pelletized compost to balance immediate productivity, nutrient efficiency and long-term soil and metabolic quality in lettuce cultivation. Full article

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

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25 pages, 2501 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Advances in Growing Degree Days Models for Flowering to Harvest: Optimizing Crop Management with Methods of Precision Horticulture—A Review

by Helene Fotouo Makouate and Manuela Zude-Sasse

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1415; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121415 - 21 Nov 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3827

Abstract

Temperature plays a vital role in plant metabolism, and effective crop temperature appears to be influenced by variables related to climate change. While extreme weather events are widely discussed, the effects of moderate temperature changes pose consistent yet underexplored challenges for farmers. The [...] Read more.

Temperature plays a vital role in plant metabolism, and effective crop temperature appears to be influenced by variables related to climate change. While extreme weather events are widely discussed, the effects of moderate temperature changes pose consistent yet underexplored challenges for farmers. The “growing degree days” (GDD) also termed “heat unit”, is the most widely used approach in agricultural and ecological studies to quantify the relationship between temperature and plant development. This review provides a comprehensive examination of GDD methodology as applied to horticultural crop production, specifically from initial fruit development to fruit maturity, and postharvest. It is the first integrated synthesis of the conceptual evolution, methodological refinement, and broad application of GDD, thereby highlighting the need to optimize GDD approaches in light of emerging technological tools. While the GDD model is valuable for predicting crop development based on heat accumulation, it has limitations in capturing the effects of other environmental factors. Additionally, air temperature may not provide precise data on each plant organ. Recent advances in remote sensing, such as the integration of thermal imaging, RGB cameras, and lidar have enabled the measurement of spatially resolved temperature distribution within crop canopies, including fruit surface temperature. Recent advances, highlighted in the literature, suggest that integrating sensor innovations with machine learning approaches holds high potential for improving the precision of modeling temperature-dependent growth responses and their interactions with other environmental variables. By addressing these challenges and expanding its applications, GDD can continue to serve as an essential tool in promoting sustainable horticultural practices and adapting to global warming. Full article

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

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17 pages, 1748 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seasonal Variation in Soil Nematode Communities Associated with Different Plants in Sovenga Hills, Limpopo Province, South Africa

by Ebrahim Shokoohi and Peter Masoko

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111402 - 20 Nov 2025

Viewed by 939

Abstract

Soil nematodes are sensitive indicators of soil ecosystem functioning, yet their seasonal dynamics across tree hosts and edaphic gradients are poorly documented in southern Africa. We sampled rhizosphere soils of pomegranate (Punica granatum), lemon (Citrus sp.), and fig (Ficus [...] Read more.

Soil nematodes are sensitive indicators of soil ecosystem functioning, yet their seasonal dynamics across tree hosts and edaphic gradients are poorly documented in southern Africa. We sampled rhizosphere soils of pomegranate (Punica granatum), lemon (Citrus sp.), and fig (Ficus carica) across four seasons in Sovenga Hills, Limpopo Province. We explicitly state that the rhizospheres of pomegranate, lemon, and fig were selected because they represent widely cultivated fruit trees in smallholder systems across Limpopo Province, where soil management practices and climate variability may influence nematode community dynamics. The hypothesis is that nematode assemblages exhibit seasonal shifts in diversity, trophic composition, and ecological indices across these hosts. The nematode genera were identified morphologically using standard diagnostic keys. A total of 29 genera were recorded. Bacterivores and herbivores dominated the assemblage, while fungivores, predators and omnivores were less abundant. Notably, Ditylenchus (fungivores) exhibited the highest Prominence Value (PV = 7926.1) and occurred in 83% of samples (Frequency of Occurrence (FO%) = 83), followed by a plant-parasitic nematode, namely Rotylenchulus (PV = 3279.8; FO% = 83%). Shannon diversity ranged from 2.09–2.34, and Maturity Index (MI) varied from 2.41–2.78 across seasons. Food-web indicators showed an enrichment index (EI) of 17–38 and structure index (SI) of 49–71, suggesting a moderately structured but dynamic soil food web. Spring communities exhibited the highest abundance (mean 471.7 individuals), biomass (0.49 µg), and composite/metabolic footprints, while autumn showed higher maturity and structural indices; summer recorded the lowest abundance and biomass. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed a total of 40.78% variation among the samples collected from different seasons and separated winter communities from autumn/spring ones (which partially overlapped). Soil pH, nitrate, phosphate, texture (sand/clay/silt), and electrical conductivity strongly associated with the observed seasonal patterns. The observed seasonal trends suggest that PV and FO% may serve as informative indicators for tracking shifts in nematode assemblages, but these patterns were not statistically significant (p > 0.05) and should therefore be considered preliminary rather than conclusive. These results highlight pronounced seasonal shifts in nematode assemblages and confirm PV and FO% as useful metrics for monitoring soil ecosystem dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest Management)

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16 pages, 26137 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Silicon Application Methods Differentially Modulate Nutrient Uptake and Morphophysiology in Passiflora edulis Seedlings Under Salt Stress

by Raquel da Silva Ferreira, Rennan Fernandes Pereira, Alicia Camila Zeferino da Silva, José Félix de Brito Neto, Lays Klécia Silva Lins, Caio da Silva Sousa, José Paulo Costa Diniz, Fernanda Suassuna Fernandes, Orquídea Suassuna Maia, Elisângela Alencar Gomes, Raquel Alice Silveira Alves, Alberto Soares de Melo and Evandro Franklin de Mesquita

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1396; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111396 - 19 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 757

Abstract

Silicon (Si) is a beneficial element that alleviates the adverse effects of salinity in plants. Despite extensive evidence of Si-mediated stress alleviation in other crops, information for tropical fruit species such as Passiflora edulis remains limited, especially regarding the efficiency of different application [...] Read more.

Silicon (Si) is a beneficial element that alleviates the adverse effects of salinity in plants. Despite extensive evidence of Si-mediated stress alleviation in other crops, information for tropical fruit species such as Passiflora edulis remains limited, especially regarding the efficiency of different application methods. This study evaluated two yellow passion fruit cultivars (BRS Sol do Cerrado and BRS Gigante Amarelo) at the seedling stage under five management conditions: irrigation with 1.2 dS m⁻¹ water (control), 4.0 dS m⁻¹ water (salt stress), and salt stress combined with Si applied via soil, foliar spray, or both (soil + foliar), using silicic acid as the Si source. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design in a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement with five replicates. High salinity decreased foliar nutrient concentrations, gas exchange, and seedling quality, whereas Si mitigated these effects depending on the application method and cultivar. Combined soil and foliar application increased nutrient contents, biomass, and the Dickson Quality Index, especially in BRS Gigante Amarelo. These findings provide new insights into Si management for P. edulis and offer practical implications for improving nutrient balance, growth, and seedling performance under saline conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interactions Between Horticultural Crops and Organic/Inorganic Biostimulants in Semiarid Agroecosystems)

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20 pages, 1801 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessing the Impact of Compost and Compost Tea on Water Stress Mitigation in Tomato Plants Under In Vitro and Pot Conditions

by Ana Isabel González-Hernández, Javier Plaza, Manuel César Alayo-Reyes, María Ángeles Gómez-Sánchez, Rodrigo Pérez-Sánchez and María Remedios Morales-Corts

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1386; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111386 - 17 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1073

Abstract

Water scarcity is a major constraint to agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This study evaluated the effects of gardening waste-based compost and compost tea (CT) on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants subjected to osmotic and water deficit stress. The [...] Read more.

Water scarcity is a major constraint to agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This study evaluated the effects of gardening waste-based compost and compost tea (CT) on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants subjected to osmotic and water deficit stress. The first experiment assessed seed germination and early growth under polyethylene glycol (PEG)-induced osmotic stress. An inverse correlation between PEG concentration and seed and plant development was found. CT improved the germination rate and early seedling development under moderate stress (2% PEG). The second experiment examined the effect of compost and CT on tomato growth in a 45-day pot trial under three irrigation levels: 100%, 60%, and 40% field capacity (FC). Compost-treated plants consistently showed significantly greater growth and biomass accumulation across all FC levels, especially under moderate water stress. In contrast, CT-treated plants showed a general reduction in growth parameters. In addition, there was a positive association between compost treatment and multiple growth traits, particularly under reduced irrigation conditions. These findings underscore the beneficial effects of compost on plant performance under drought conditions. Full article

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

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27 pages, 2609 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Hydroponic Thermal Regulation for Low-Energy Winter Strawberry Production in Mediterranean Coastal Infrastructures

by Helen Kalorizou, Paschalis Giannoulis, Athanasios Koulopoulos, Eleni Trigka, Efstathios Xanthopoulos, Eleni Iliopoulou, Athanasios Chatzikamaris and George Zervoudakis

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1383; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111383 - 16 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2070

Abstract

The implementation of immersion heaters in hydroponic strawberry systems offers substantial potential for reducing glasshouse operational costs. This 115-day study investigated the effects of nutrient solution temperature on strawberry physiological and biochemical parameters. Temperature significantly influenced anthocyanin accumulation, with a maximum increase (135.49%) [...] Read more.

The implementation of immersion heaters in hydroponic strawberry systems offers substantial potential for reducing glasshouse operational costs. This 115-day study investigated the effects of nutrient solution temperature on strawberry physiological and biochemical parameters. Temperature significantly influenced anthocyanin accumulation, with a maximum increase (135.49%) at 20 °C. Total chlorophyll content and photosystem II efficiency (Fv/Fm) exhibited temperature-dependent variations, while the 20 °C treatment served as the optimal baseline. Plants maintained at 20 °C demonstrated superior growth performance, achieving 64.79% higher fresh shoot weight and 50.29% greater total dry biomass compared to controls. Fruit quality parameters remained largely temperature-independent, except at 15 °C, which produced fruits with elevated sugar content but reduced acidity and dimensions. Conversely, the 20 °C treatment yielded the maximum fruit weight. Photosynthetic rates peaked during the experimental period, with plants at 20 °C exhibiting optimal recovery capacity. Both transpiration and stomatal conductance displayed treatment-specific patterns, with 20 °C maintaining superior physiological responses despite stress periods. These findings establish that maintaining nutrient solution temperature at 20 °C optimizes strawberry physiology, growth, and fruit quality, validating temperature regulation as an effective practice for hydroponic strawberry production systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stress Response, Development, and Quality Regulation in Horticultural Plants)

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22 pages, 8822 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Comparative Analysis of High-Throughput and Conventional Phenotyping: Validation of Plantarray System and Dynamic Physiological Traits for Drought Tolerance in Watermelon

by Rui Cheng, Shiyu Zhao, Xiaolong Shi, Xin Liu, Yan Tang, Wenzhao Xu, Binghua Xu, Cong Jin, Yudong Sun and Xuezheng Wang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1374; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111374 - 14 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1078

Abstract

Drought stress is a major constraint on watermelon production worldwide. Conventional phenotyping methods for drought tolerance are often low-throughput and fail to capture dynamic physiological responses. This study validated the high-throughput phenotyping platform (Plantarray 3.0) against conventional methods by dynamically evaluating drought tolerance [...] Read more.

Drought stress is a major constraint on watermelon production worldwide. Conventional phenotyping methods for drought tolerance are often low-throughput and fail to capture dynamic physiological responses. This study validated the high-throughput phenotyping platform (Plantarray 3.0) against conventional methods by dynamically evaluating drought tolerance across 30 genetically diverse watermelon accessions. The Plantarray system quantified key dynamic traits, including transpiration rate (TR), transpiration maintenance ratio (TMR), and transpiration recovery ratios (TRRs), revealing distinct drought-response strategies. Principal component analysis (PCA) of these dynamic traits explained 96.4% of the total variance (PC1: 75.5%, PC2: 20.9%), clearly differentiating genotypes. A highly significant correlation (R = 0.941, p < 0.001) was found between the comprehensive drought tolerance rankings derived from Plantarray and conventional phenotyping. We identified five genotypes as highly tolerant and four as highly sensitive. The elite drought-tolerant germplasm, notably the wild species PI 537300 (Citrullus colocynthis) and the cultivated variety G42 (Citrullus lanatus), exhibited superior physiological performance and recovery capacity. The results demonstrate that the Plantarray system not only efficiently screens for drought tolerance but also provides deep insights into dynamic resistance mechanisms, offering a powerful tool and valuable genetic resources for breeding climate-resilient watermelon cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Germplasm Resources and Genetics Improvement of Watermelon and Melon)

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21 pages, 1829 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genetic Studies in Carrot (Daucus carota L.): Advancements and Trends in Research

by Marcos Vinicius Bohrer Monteiro Siqueira, Maria Eduarda da Silveira, Pablo Federico Cavagnaro, Gustavo Reis de Brito, Lizz Kezzy de Morais, Carlos I. Arbizu, Enéas Ricardo Konzen and Edimar Olegário de Campos Júnior

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1371; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111371 - 14 Nov 2025

Viewed by 1754

Abstract

The cultivated carrot (Daucus carota L. subsp. sativus) is a globally important crop valued for its high content of beta-carotene, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. Advances in molecular genetics and genomics have driven improvements in yield, stress tolerance, disease resistance, pigment [...] Read more.

The cultivated carrot (Daucus carota L. subsp. sativus) is a globally important crop valued for its high content of beta-carotene, vitamins, and other bioactive compounds. Advances in molecular genetics and genomics have driven improvements in yield, stress tolerance, disease resistance, pigment accumulation, and nutritional quality. Here we present a comprehensive scientometric analysis of 398 peer-reviewed articles on carrot genetics (1964–2023), integrating keyword co-occurrence mapping and co-authorship network analysis to identify research lines, methodological approaches, and international collaboration. The focus of research was predominantly on Plant Biology (67.59%), followed by Conservation (15.58%) and Plant Breeding (10.55%). The integration of omics technologies has yielded new insights into abiotic stress tolerance, carotenoid and anthocyanin biosynthesis, and genetic diversity; however, significant challenges remain in translating genomic resources into routine breeding practice and conservation of genetic resources. We recommend prioritizing genome-assisted breeding strategies, functional genomics and interdisciplinary, multi-omics approaches to accelerate the development of resilient and high-quality carrot cultivars under climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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20 pages, 3807 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of Multi-Environment-Driven Variations in Net Photosynthetic Rate and Predictive Model Development for Tomatoes During Early Flowering and Fruit Development Stages in Winter Solar Greenhouses

by Yongsan Cheng, Nianhua Li, Zongyao Li, Aiwu Zhou, Bin Li and Yanxiu Miao

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111367 - 13 Nov 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 993

Abstract

In protected horticulture, precise regulation of light intensity [i.e., photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD)], ambient temperature, and ambient CO₂ concentration is crucial for optimizing crop photosynthesis. Tomatoes, a key greenhouse crop, exhibit temporal variations in photosynthetic efficiency across their growth cycle. However, [...] Read more.

In protected horticulture, precise regulation of light intensity [i.e., photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD)], ambient temperature, and ambient CO₂ concentration is crucial for optimizing crop photosynthesis. Tomatoes, a key greenhouse crop, exhibit temporal variations in photosynthetic efficiency across their growth cycle. However, the differences in the dynamic responses of net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of tomatoes to environmental factors during flowering and fruit development stages in winter solar greenhouses, as well as how to utilize these differences respectively to achieve more precise on-demand environmental regulation, still require in-depth exploration. Based on measured data, this study employed decision tree (DT), random forest (RF), and XGBoost (XGB) models to predict net photosynthetic rate (Pn) across two growth periods. The results demonstrated that, in comparison with the early flowering stage, the photosynthetic potential of tomato leaves increased during the fruit development stage, with the Pn peak increasing by 11.5%. The proportion of observed data points in the high Pn range (25–35 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹) at the fruit development stage was 14.2%, which was significantly higher than the 6.7% observed at the early flowering stage. Meanwhile, the sensitivity of tomato leaves to changes in environmental factors also increased during the fruit development stage. On the independent test set, the XGB model exhibited the best predictive performance: the root mean square error (RMSE) for the early flowering stage model was 0.47 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.36 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹; for the fruit development stage, the RMSE was 0.60 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹, and the MAE was 0.41 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹. This study demonstrated the variation patterns of photosynthetic characteristics of tomatoes at different growth stages in response to environment factors. The established XGB model and the generated three-dimensional visualized Pn prediction surfaces provide a quantitative basis and decision-support tools to facilitate precise environmental management strategies for the coordinated dynamic regulation of light, temperature, and CO₂ in solar greenhouses. Full article

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

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16 pages, 1374 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impacts of Olive Pomace Stress on Vicia faba L.’s Growth, Secondary Metabolism, and Nutrient Uptake

by Mohammed Bouhadi, Qaiser Javed, Dominik Anđelini, Danko Cvitan, Tvrtko Karlo Kovačević, Igor Palčić, Nikola Major, Smiljana Goreta Ban, Igor Pasković, Dean Ban, David Heath and Marko Černe

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111350 - 9 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 811

Abstract

Olive pomace (OP), an olive mill byproduct, poses environmental risks if mismanaged due to its high phenolic content, acidic pH, organic load, and electrical conductivity. This study evaluated the impact of olive pomace filtrate (OPF) at varying doses (OP-5, OP-10, OP-15) on broad [...] Read more.

Olive pomace (OP), an olive mill byproduct, poses environmental risks if mismanaged due to its high phenolic content, acidic pH, organic load, and electrical conductivity. This study evaluated the impact of olive pomace filtrate (OPF) at varying doses (OP-5, OP-10, OP-15) on broad bean (Vicia faba L.) growth, secondary metabolites, and nutrient accumulation. The highest OPF dose (OP-15) exhibited a clear negative, dose-dependent phytotoxic effect, causing stem discoloration, reduced root growth, necrosis, and chlorosis, while untreated controls showed vigorous growth. This significantly (p < 0.05) reduced leaf development, average number of leaves, and total leaf area, even at the lowest concentration (5%). Consequently, OP-15 reduced dry and fresh biomass by over 50% and shoot/root lengths by up to 61.55% compared to the control. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis revealed a positive dose-dependent effect of OPF on beneficial phenol and flavonoid accumulation, with significantly higher amounts of ferulic, isoferulic, caffeic, chlorogenic, and 4-hydroxybenzoic acids, as well as luteolin-4′-rutinoside and 4,7-dihydroxyflavone. OP application significantly (p < 0.05) decreased relative water content and increased electrolyte leakage and malondialdehyde, indicating stress. Furthermore, OP decreased the uptake of K, P, Fe, S, Zn, and Cu. Therefore, the intrinsic phytotoxicity of OPF suggests that mitigation measures are essential before considering environmental application to prevent potential adverse effects on sensitive crops and the wider ecosystem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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22 pages, 3022 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Microorganism-Based Biostimulants for Alleviating Water Deficit in ‘Formosa’ Papaya: Physiological Indices and Growth

by Maíla Vieira Dantas, Reynaldo Teodoro de Fátima, Geovani Soares de Lima, Hans Raj Gheyi, Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos Soares, Josélio dos Santos da Silva, Iara Almeida Roque, Cassiano Nogueira de Lacerda, Jean Telvio Andrade Ferreira, Luderlândio de Andrade Silva, Daniel da Conceição Almeida, Rafaela Aparecida Frazão Torres, Adriana Silva Lima and Fernandes Antônio de Almeida

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1348; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111348 - 9 Nov 2025

Viewed by 769

Abstract

Papaya is an economically important crop, but its production in semiarid regions is severely limited by water scarcity. However, microorganism-based biostimulants have been studied as a promising strategy to mitigate water stress and support plant growth. Therefore, the objective of this study was [...] Read more.

Papaya is an economically important crop, but its production in semiarid regions is severely limited by water scarcity. However, microorganism-based biostimulants have been studied as a promising strategy to mitigate water stress and support plant growth. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of microorganism-based biostimulants on gas exchange, photochemical efficiency, and growth of ‘Formosa’ papaya under water deficit in a semiarid area. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with split plots. The plots considered three irrigation depths (100, 75, and 50% of crop evapotranspiration-ETc) and the subplots the application of four biostimulants (control (no biostimulant application); Trichoderma harzianum; Ascophyllum nodosum; Bacillus aryabhattai), with three plants per plot and four replicates. B. aryabhattai mitigated the effects of deficit irrigation at 50% ETc on ‘Formosa’ papaya, increasing transpiration, CO₂ assimilation rate, and instantaneous carboxylation efficiency. Under irrigation at 50% ETc, T. harzianum provided beneficial effects on water use efficiency, instantaneous carboxylation efficiency, and photosystem II quantum efficiency. A. nodosum stimulated chlorophyll a synthesis in ‘Formosa’ papaya plants irrigated at 75% ETc during the fruiting stage, but reduced the absolute and relative growth rate in stem diameter under 50% ETc. Irrigation at 50% ETc reduced stomatal conductance and growth of ‘Formosa’ papaya plants 235 days after transplanting. We conclude that the application of B. aryabhattai and T. harzianum is a viable strategy to increase the tolerance of ‘Formosa’ papaya to the adverse effects of water deficit in semiarid regions. Full article

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

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21 pages, 2287 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Lettuce to Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Inoculation and Landoltia punctata Extract Applications

by Kateřina Patloková, Vojtěch Ferby, Vlastimil Slaný, Michal Oravec, Jan Tříska, Vladimír Mašán, Patrik Burg and Robert Pokluda

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1310; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111310 - 1 Nov 2025

Viewed by 860

Abstract

The use of biostimulants offers a sustainable strategy to improve crop quality. This study assessed the effects of an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculum (consisting of species Claroideoglomus claroideum, Claroideoglomus etunicatum, Funneliformis geosporum, Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus irregularis) and an [...] Read more.

The use of biostimulants offers a sustainable strategy to improve crop quality. This study assessed the effects of an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculum (consisting of species Claroideoglomus claroideum, Claroideoglomus etunicatum, Funneliformis geosporum, Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus irregularis) and an 0.5% aqueous extract of Landoltia punctata on the growth and biochemical composition of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. ‘Dubáček’) under indoor conditions. Four variants were tested: control (C), mycorrhiza (M), L. punctata extract (L), and their combination (M + L), with biometric, physiological, and biochemical parameters evaluated. Simultaneously, the amino acid profile of Landoltia extract was determined, and the degree of plant colonization by mycorrhizal fungi was evaluated. While biostimulant treatments did not affect above-ground biomass, L. punctata extract (L and M + L) significantly raised chlorophyll a (by 15.9% and 16.0%) and chlorophyll b (by 55.5% and 42.8%) compared to the control. The combined treatment (M + L) achieved the highest total phenolic content (254.28 mg/kg). All treated variants significantly reduced leaf nitrate content, with M and M + L being most effective (−35.1% and −33.6%). Amino acid metabolomic analysis showed that the extract is rich in γ-aminobutyric acid, valine, phenylalanine, tryptophan, and other proteinogenic amino acids that may drive its biostimulant effects. Microscopy confirmed successful root colonisation in mycorrhizal variants (58% in M, 42% in M + L). Although the biostimulants did not significantly affect growth, their application is recommended to improve lettuce quality by enhancing photosynthetic pigments and phenolic compounds while reducing nitrate content, indicating their potential for producing safe, higher-quality crops. Full article

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

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12 pages, 4706 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Efficacy of Drench Applications of Insecticides Against Systena frontalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Hydrangea paniculata

by Shimat V. Joseph

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1311; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111311 - 1 Nov 2025

Viewed by 666

Abstract

Systena frontalis (Fabricius) is a serious pest of panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold) and various other ornamental plant species in container ornamental nurseries. Effective season-long management strategies are essential, particularly in nursery settings where drench applications of insecticides offer a potential [...] Read more.

Systena frontalis (Fabricius) is a serious pest of panicled hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata Siebold) and various other ornamental plant species in container ornamental nurseries. Effective season-long management strategies are essential, particularly in nursery settings where drench applications of insecticides offer a potential method for targeting the larval stages. Several insecticides, such as isocycloseram, cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, chlorantraniliprole, flupyradifurone, and tolfenpyrad are currently available or expected to become available for use. However, their efficacy, when applied as growing media drenches, has not been thoroughly evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of isocycloseram, cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam, flupyradifurone, and tolfenpyrad against S. frontalis larvae through drench applications to container media. Results from 2024 showed that high rates of isocycloseram significantly reduced larvae, while lower rates were less effective in the 2025 trial. Although the performance of cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam was mixed between 2024 and 2025, it effectively reduced larvae in both 2025 trials. Chlorantraniliprole formulation with high active ingredient dose reduced larvae relative to nontreated. In contrast, flupyradifurone and tolfenpyrad failed to reduce larvae following drench application. These findings suggest that drench application of high rates of isocycloseram and cyantraniliprole + thiamethoxam will be a valuable addition to the pest management toolbox for controlling S. frontalis in ornamental container nurseries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Strategies for Arthropod Pest Control in Horticultural Systems)

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17 pages, 1781 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Optical and Chemical Profiling of Japanese Strawberries: Fluorescence Fingerprints, Imaging Features, and Quality Attributes Prediction

by Maulidia Hilaili, Ayoub Fathi-Najafabadi, Nurwahyuningsih, Noelia Castillejo, Lucia Russo, Naoshi Kondo and Danial Fatchurrahman

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1291; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111291 - 27 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1396

Abstract

New strawberry cultivars with unusual peel colors, such as white and peach, require thorough characterization to understand their quality traits. In this study, we examined three Japanese cultivars, ‘Kotoka’ (red), ‘Awayuki’ (peach), and ‘Pearl White’ (white), to investigate their differences in chemistry and [...] Read more.

New strawberry cultivars with unusual peel colors, such as white and peach, require thorough characterization to understand their quality traits. In this study, we examined three Japanese cultivars, ‘Kotoka’ (red), ‘Awayuki’ (peach), and ‘Pearl White’ (white), to investigate their differences in chemistry and optical properties. We measured the sugar content, acidity, and maturity index, and combined these with fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging under three LED lights (365 nm, 420 nm, and white). The fluorescence data showed clear differences between cultivars, in which the ‘Pearl White’ gave a strong near-UV peak around 290/325 nm, ‘Awayuki’ had a high far-red signal in 490/745 nm, and ‘Kotoka’ showed lower fluorescence overall. Imaging backed up these findings, with ‘Pearl White’ and ‘Awayuki’ looking brighter under UV while Kotoka appeared darker and more uniform. Texture analysis showed ‘Pearl White’ had a more uneven surface, while ‘Kotoka’ was smoother. The basic chemistry also matched these trends, as ‘Kotoka’ had the most sugar and acid, giving it a sharper taste, while ‘Pearl White’ had the highest maturity index and a milder flavor. These results demonstrate how fluorescence fingerprints and imaging features, when combined, can rapidly characterize strawberry types and assess their quality without damaging the fruit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Non-Destructive Detection Techniques in Horticultural Plants)

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14 pages, 281 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Three Organic Fertilizers and Biostimulants on the Morphological Traits and Secondary Metabolite Content of Lettuce

by Nataša Romanjek Fajdetić, Ljiljana Božić Ostojić, Robert Benković, Dinko Zima, Mihaela Blažinkov, Krunoslav Mirosavljević, Brigita Popović and Teuta Benković-Lačić

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1288; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111288 - 27 Oct 2025

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1387

Abstract

The aim of the work was to find out the effects of three types of organic fertilizers (S-horse and cow, P-chicken, B-compost) and three types of biostimulants (BC-plants, BO-microorganisms, BS-microorganisms) on the growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa cv. Maradona) and the secondary [...] Read more.

The aim of the work was to find out the effects of three types of organic fertilizers (S-horse and cow, P-chicken, B-compost) and three types of biostimulants (BC-plants, BO-microorganisms, BS-microorganisms) on the growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa cv. Maradona) and the secondary metabolites accumulation. The combination of manure (P) and biostimulant (BC) produced the highest yield, exceeding the control by 50% and 66% in two successive growing cycles (p < 0.05). Across all fertilizer treatments, BC application consistently improved plant performance and metabolic activity. Among secondary metabolities, the highest total phenolic content was observed in S and S + BC (≈2.56 mg g⁻¹), phenolic acids in S + BC (≈2.54 mg g⁻¹), antioxidant activity in P + BC (≈1.24 mg g⁻¹), flavonoids in control with S (≈14.09 µmol/g), and proline in P + BO (≈2.45 µmol/g). These findings highlight the synergistic effects of organic fertilizers and biostimulants, suggesting their potential to improve both productivity and nutritional quality in sustainable horticultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Green Leafy Vegetables)

22 pages, 5742 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Anther Ontogeny and Pollen Development in Southern Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.)

by José María Recalde, Miguel Fernando Garavello, Paula Alayón Luaces and Ana María González

Horticulturae 2025, 11(11), 1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11111278 - 24 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1338

Abstract

Southern highbush blueberry (SHB, Vaccinium corymbosum, Ericaceae) enables production in warm, low-chill regions, where breeding success depends on precisely timed pollinations. To support breeding in non-traditional environments, we characterized floral staging, anther wall ontogeny, tubule formation, and pollen development in two SHB [...] Read more.

Southern highbush blueberry (SHB, Vaccinium corymbosum, Ericaceae) enables production in warm, low-chill regions, where breeding success depends on precisely timed pollinations. To support breeding in non-traditional environments, we characterized floral staging, anther wall ontogeny, tubule formation, and pollen development in two SHB cultivars (‘Emerald’, ‘Snowchaser’) grown in commercial orchards. Floral development was divided into seven stages: dormant buds (db), five successive floral-bud stages (botA–botE), and anthesis, based on bud size, corolla exposure and pigmentation, and anther/tubule coloration. Internal events were documented by light, confocal, and scanning electron microscopy. External cues reliably separated stages and tracked male-gametophyte phases: meiosis at botB; callose-encased tetrads at botC; permanent tetrahedral tetrads after callose dissolution at botD; bicellular tetrads from botE to anthesis, released intact via poricidal dehiscence. Anther-wall differentiation followed a consistent sequence and lacked a fibrous, lignified endothecium. We therefore propose a new Ericaceous pattern for blueberry anthers, defined by a transient non-lignified subepidermal stratum. Tubules originated apically as solid outgrowths, hollowed centrifugally to a beveled pore, developed a dorsal supportive zone, and mediated poricidal release of permanent tetrads. No qualitative cultivar differences were detected. The staging framework defines operational windows for pollination, emasculation, and pollen handling in low-chill systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Structure to Function: Anatomical and Reproductive Studies in Native and Cultivated Horticultural Plants)

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22 pages, 661 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Research Progress on the Effect of Grafting Technology on Disease Resistance and Stress Resistance of Watermelon

by Xuena Liu, Shikai La, Chang Chen, Ainong Shi, Mingjiao Wang, Yingying Zhang, Jinghua Guo and Lingdi Dong

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1271; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101271 - 21 Oct 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2230

Abstract

Grafting is an effective horticultural technique that significantly enhances disease resistance and stress tolerance in watermelon. This review systematically summarizes the types of rootstocks used in watermelon grafting and analyzes the effects of grafting on plant responses to biotic stresses, such as viral [...] Read more.

Grafting is an effective horticultural technique that significantly enhances disease resistance and stress tolerance in watermelon. This review systematically summarizes the types of rootstocks used in watermelon grafting and analyzes the effects of grafting on plant responses to biotic stresses, such as viral and fungal pathogens, root-knot nematodes infections, and abiotic stresses, including drought, temperature extremes, and salinity. Furthermore, it discusses the changes in fruit quality and explores the underlying mechanisms associated with graft-induced resistance. By synthesizing recent research advances, this review aims to offer valuable insights and practical references for improving resistance and promoting sustainable production in cucurbit and other vegetable crops through grafting. As a sustainable cultivation strategy, grafting demonstrates considerable potential for enhancing watermelon resilience and yield; however, optimizing fruit quality remains a critical focus for future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Rootstock in Horticultural Crops and Its Influence on Growth and Development)

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14 pages, 1738 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Determination of the Resistance of Tolerant Hybrids of Buxus to the Pathogen Cylindrocladium buxicola and the Effect of Nutrition and Climatic Conditions on Leaf Color

by Ivana Šafránková, Jiří Souček, Marie Machanderová, Petr Salaš, Jana Burgová and Ludmila Holková

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101256 - 17 Oct 2025

Viewed by 915

Abstract

Boxwood (Buxus sp.) plays a key role in historical gardens due to its evergreen foliage and resilience. However, recent outbreaks of disease caused by fungal pathogens such as Calonectria spp. (C. pseudonaviculata, C. henricotiae) and Pseudonectria spp. (P. [...] Read more.

Boxwood (Buxus sp.) plays a key role in historical gardens due to its evergreen foliage and resilience. However, recent outbreaks of disease caused by fungal pathogens such as Calonectria spp. (C. pseudonaviculata, C. henricotiae) and Pseudonectria spp. (P. buxi, P. foliicola), as well as pest pressures from Cydalima perspectalis, have led to significant losses. This study examined 100 boxwood plantings across the Czech Republic to evaluate pest and disease occurrence. Further, six modern boxwood cultivars from the groups of BetterBuxus^® and NewGen^® were tested in field trials under the climatic conditions of the Czech Republic, focusing on their resistance to abiotic stress and foliage color retention throughout the year. Laboratory trials confirmed all cultivars were susceptible to C. pseudonaviculata, with ‘Renaissance’ showing the slowest disease progression. Field assessments under two contrasting management regimes (“Minimalistic” and “Pampered”) indicated sporadic boxwood blight incidence but frequent Volutella blight outbreaks, particularly where plants suffered frost stress. Leaf color, an important esthetic trait, was evaluated using Munsell charts and measuring the relative chlorophyll content. ‘Skylight’ most closely matched Buxus sempervirens in the shade of green and winter color. Full article

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

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21 pages, 7305 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integration of Physiological and Transcriptomic Analyses Provides Insights into the Regulatory Mechanisms of Adventitious Root Formation in Phoebe bournei Cuttings

by Yuhua Li, Haining Xu, Yongjie Zheng, Chenglin Luo, Yueting Zhang, Xinliang Liu and Yanfang Wu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101238 - 13 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1089

Abstract

Phoebe bournei is an important economic tree species in China, its large-scale propagation is limited by the difficulty of adventitious root (AR) formation in cuttings. In this study, morphological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to investigate the process of AR formation in [...] Read more.

Phoebe bournei is an important economic tree species in China, its large-scale propagation is limited by the difficulty of adventitious root (AR) formation in cuttings. In this study, morphological, physiological, and transcriptomic analyses were conducted to investigate the process of AR formation in P. bournei. The results showed that ARs mainly originated from callus tissue. During AR formation, soluble sugar and soluble protein contents changed significantly. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and oxygen free radicals (OFRs) peaked at first sampling stage (PB0), while the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and indoleacetic acid oxidase (IAAO) exhibited similar patterns. Lignin content increased during callus induction stage, whereas phenolic content continuously declined throughout rooting. Endogenous hormone levels also changed markedly, and Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) analysis indicated that indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA) played dominant roles in this process. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway in all three comparison groups. A total of 48 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in plant hormone signal transduction pathways, with 22 and 14 genes associated with IAA and ABA signaling, respectively. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) further identified two hub modules related to IAA and ABA contents, including eight hub genes such as D6PKL1 and ISTL1. Correlation analysis revealed that the hub genes D6PKL1 and HSP were significantly positively correlated with IAA4 in the IAA signaling pathway. Overall, this study provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying AR formation in P. bournei cuttings and offers a theoretical basis for optimizing its clonal propagation system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Propagation and Seeds)

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14 pages, 2072 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Elevated Temperature on the Phenology and Fruit Shape of the Early-Maturing Peach Cultivar ‘Mihong’

by Seul Ki Lee, Jae Hoon Jeong, Taehwan Shin, Sihyeong Jang, Dongyong Lee and Dong Geun Choi

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101222 - 10 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1079

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of elevated temperature on the phenology and morphology of the early-maturing peach cultivar ‘Mihong’. The experiment was conducted from 2019 to 2024 in a temperature-gradient chamber at the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, Wanju, Korea, with [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of elevated temperature on the phenology and morphology of the early-maturing peach cultivar ‘Mihong’. The experiment was conducted from 2019 to 2024 in a temperature-gradient chamber at the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, Wanju, Korea, with four warming treatments (+2.2 °C to +5.0 °C above ambient). Higher temperatures delayed the onset of endodormancy and markedly shortened the period from endodormancy release to full bloom. Elevated temperatures also increased the LD ratio, with the proportion of fruits exceeding an LD ratio of 1.0 rising significantly with temperature. The LD ratio showed strong correlations with November mean temperature (MT11) and March maximum temperature (HT3) (r = 0.81) and was also associated with the average temperature (Temp3, r = 0.51) and duration (P3, r = −0.54) of the endodormancy release to full bloom phase. Stepwise and PLS regression identified temperatures in May, November, and March as key predictors of the LD ratio, while PCA revealed that temperature variables (Temp3, Temp5) and stage durations (P3, P4) were major contributors. These results confirm that climate warming alters the phenology and morphology of ‘Mihong’, reducing fruit quality and marketability, while providing a basis for predictive modeling and highlighting the importance of adaptive strategies such as shading or growth regulator application. Full article

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

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24 pages, 544 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Response of Sweet Pepper Varieties to Low-Input Conditions and Microbial Biostimulant Application

by Marisa Jiménez-Pérez, Ana M. Adalid-Martínez, Estela Moreno-Peris, Alicia Sánchez, Virginia Hernández, Pilar Flores, Pilar Hellín and Adrián Rodríguez-Burruezo

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101207 - 7 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1351

Abstract

The excessive use of irrigation water and fertilizers in agriculture raises serious environmental concerns, emphasizing the need for more sustainable practices. Screening genotypes with reduced nutrient and water requirements, combined with favorable responses to plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), offers a promising strategy for [...] Read more.

The excessive use of irrigation water and fertilizers in agriculture raises serious environmental concerns, emphasizing the need for more sustainable practices. Screening genotypes with reduced nutrient and water requirements, combined with favorable responses to plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), offers a promising strategy for developing more sustainable farming systems. Seven sweet pepper genotypes (Capsicum annuum L.) were evaluated under six treatments, involving two fertilization levels (100% and 50% standard dose), two irrigation regimes (100% and 75% full irrigation), and PGPR inoculation applied under reduced fertilization. Yield, fruit weight, rhizosphere enzymatic activities, and soluble sugars in green and red fruits were evaluated. The genotype effect contributed significantly to all traits. Combined reductions in fertilizer and irrigation decreased average yield by 21.7%, while PGPR did not fully compensate for these losses. Alkaline phosphomonoesterase activity increased by 22.9% under low fertilization, whereas averaged catalase and dehydrogenase remained relatively stable regardless of PGPR. In green fruits, PGPR inoculation under combined stress conditions increased glucose and fructose concentrations by 11.6% and 13.9%, respectively, compared to uninoculated stressed plants, although sucrose decreased. At fully ripe stage, sugar composition was less responsive to treatments. These findings underscore the importance of genotype evaluation and the exploitation of genotype × treatment interactions in peppers breeding for sustainable farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies of Producing Horticultural Crops Under Climate Change)

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21 pages, 2509 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Metabolic Reprogramming and Amino Acid Adjustments in Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) Under Salinity Stress

by Hooman Shirvani, Foad Fatehi, Sara Hejri and Ramesh Katam

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1201; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101201 - 4 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1319

Abstract

Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) holds significant importance due to its diverse applications and nutritional benefits. The nuts are rich in essential amino acids, antioxidants, fiber, healthy fats, and minerals, making them highly valuable for human nutrition. However, pistachios are significantly challenged by [...] Read more.

Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) holds significant importance due to its diverse applications and nutritional benefits. The nuts are rich in essential amino acids, antioxidants, fiber, healthy fats, and minerals, making them highly valuable for human nutrition. However, pistachios are significantly challenged by salinity stress, which negatively affects their growth and metabolism. Understanding the impact of salinity stress on pistachios is crucial for developing effective strategies to enhance their tolerance, improve growth, and ensure sustainable production in saline environments. To investigate the effects of salinity on energy metabolism and amino acid composition, we monitored key metabolites and free amino acid levels in UCB-1 pistachio leaves at 7- and 21-day salt stress treatments using Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography (UPLC). Our findings revealed that salinity affected nearly all analyzed metabolites, with varied patterns observed at different time points. Notably, all free amino acids except threonine accumulated significantly in response to salt stress. Meanwhile, reductions in 3PGA, Fru1,6bP, and Glu6P+Fru6P (glycolysis and Calvin cycle intermediates) suggest a decrease in photosynthetic activity, which may ultimately impact respiration rates. These results demonstrate that salinity stress affects both amino acid metabolism and central carbon metabolism, with the magnitude and pattern of these changes depending on the duration of exposure. The observed metabolic adjustments likely represent an adaptive response, enabling the plant to partially mitigate the detrimental effects of salt stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Stress Physiology and Resistance Regulation in Horticultural Plants: 2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 3914 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Vv14-3-3ω Is a Susceptible Factor for Grapevine Downy Mildew

by Zainib Babar, Asaf Khan, Jiaqi Liu, Peining Fu and Jiang Lu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1199; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101199 - 3 Oct 2025

Viewed by 873

Abstract

14-3-3 proteins are highly conserved regulatory molecules in plants. In grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.), 14-3-3 proteins are studied under abiotic stress. However, the role of 14-3-3 proteins in the interaction between grapevine and downy mildew is yet to be studied. In this [...] Read more.

14-3-3 proteins are highly conserved regulatory molecules in plants. In grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.), 14-3-3 proteins are studied under abiotic stress. However, the role of 14-3-3 proteins in the interaction between grapevine and downy mildew is yet to be studied. In this study, we identified a highly conserved 14-3-3 protein in grapevine and performed a phylogenetic analysis, revealing a close relationship between one of its homologs, 14-3-3ω proteins from Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana benthamiana. We designated this homolog as Vv14-3-3ω. Subcellular localization studies showed that Vv14-3-3ω resides in the plasma membrane and cytoplasm. Expression analysis revealed a strong induction of Vv14-3-3ω at early time points following Plasmopara viticola infection, correlating with enhanced pathogen sporulation in grapevine. Furthermore, transient overexpression of Vv14-3-3ω in N. benthamiana increased susceptibility to the Phytophthora capsici pathogen and suppressed Flg22-induced pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) responses. Overexpression of Vv14-3-3ω in Nb14-3-3-silenced N. benthamiana plants resulted in increased susceptibility to P. capsici, suggesting functional conservation of this isoform. These findings indicate that Vv14-3-3ω functions as a susceptibility factor, facilitating pathogen infection and disease progression in grapevine, and highlight its potential role for improving resistance against downy mildew. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Grape Genetic Diversity)

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18 pages, 7125 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of Fruit-Specific Spectral Indices and Endmember-Based Analysis for Apple Cultivar Classification Using Hyperspectral Imaging

by Ye-Jin Lee, HwangWeon Jeong, Seoyeon Lee, Eunji Ga, JeongHo Baek, Song Lim Kim, Sang-Ho Kang, Youn-Il Park, Kyung-Hwan Kim and Jae Il Lyu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1177; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101177 - 2 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1239

Abstract

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has emerged as a powerful tool for non-destructive phenotyping, yet fruit crop applications remain underexplored. We propose a methodological framework to enhance the spectral characterization of apple fruits by identifying robust vegetation indices (VIs) and interpretable endmembers. We screened 284 [...] Read more.

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has emerged as a powerful tool for non-destructive phenotyping, yet fruit crop applications remain underexplored. We propose a methodological framework to enhance the spectral characterization of apple fruits by identifying robust vegetation indices (VIs) and interpretable endmembers. We screened 284 Vis, which were evaluated using four feature selection algorithms (Boruta, MI+Lasso, RFE, and ensemble voting), generalizing across red, yellow, green, and purple apple cultivars. An ensemble criterion (≥2 algorithms) yielded 50 selected VIs from the NDSI/DSI/RSI families, preserving > 95% classification accuracy and capturing cultivar-specific variation. Pigment-sensitive wavelength bands were identified via PLS-DA VIP scores and one-vs-rest ANOVA. Using these bands, we formulated a new normalized-difference, ratio, and difference spectral indices tailored to cultivar-specific pigmentation. Several indices achieved >89% classification accuracy and showed patterns consistent with those of anthocyanin, carotenoid, and chlorophyll. A two-stage spectral unmixing pipeline (K-Means → N-FINDR) achieved the lowest reconstruction RMSE (0.043%). This multi-level strategy provides a scalable, interpretable framework for enhancing phenotypic resolution in apple hyperspectral data, contributing to fruit index development and generalized spectral analysis methods for horticultural applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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20 pages, 2427 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Role of Enzymes and Metabolites Produced by Bacillus spp. in the Suppression of Meloidogyne incognita in Tomato

by Mariana Viana Castro, Luanda Medeiros Santana, Everaldo Antônio Lopes, Walter Vieira da Cunha, Vittoria Catara, Giulio Dimaria and Liliane Evangelista Visotto

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1189; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101189 - 2 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1485

Abstract

The management of Meloidogyne incognita often depends on chemical nematicides, which pose environmental and health risks. This study investigated the potential of bacterial strains isolated from uncultivated native soil as biocontrol agents and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in tomato plants artificially infected with [...] Read more.

The management of Meloidogyne incognita often depends on chemical nematicides, which pose environmental and health risks. This study investigated the potential of bacterial strains isolated from uncultivated native soil as biocontrol agents and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in tomato plants artificially infected with this nematode. Fifteen strains were screened in vitro for nematicidal and ovicidal activity, and four promising strains (307, GB16, GB24, and GB29) were selected for greenhouse trials. All strains reduced the nematode reproduction factor and the number of nematodes/g of root. Strains 307 and GB24 showed the highest reductions, 61.39 and 57.24%, respectively. Despite some positive physiological trends, Bacillus spp. did not promote a significant increase in plant growth. Metabolomic analysis revealed that the strains produced a wide range of primary metabolites with potential nematicidal activity. All strains also secreted proteases and chitinases, enzymes linked to nematode cuticle degradation. Preliminary identification based on the 16S rRNA gene and phylogenetic analysis grouped the four strains into the Bacillus subtilis group (strains GB16, GB29 and 307) or Bacillus cereus group (strain GB24); however, genome sequencing will be required in future studies. Overall, strains 307 and GB24 demonstrated strong biocontrol potential, supporting their use as sustainable and complementary alternatives to chemical nematicides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plant Disease Management Using Advanced Biotechnology)

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22 pages, 354 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Real-Time Nutrient Management in Hydroponic Controlled Environment Agriculture Systems Through Plant Sap Analysis

by Husnain Rauf and Rhuanito Soranz Ferrarezi

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101174 - 1 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3070

Abstract

Global food production must meet the dietary requirements of a growing population, which is expected to reach 8–11 billion by 2100, while reducing the environmental impact of agricultural practices. The agricultural sector accounts for 21–37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, 70% of freshwater, [...] Read more.

Global food production must meet the dietary requirements of a growing population, which is expected to reach 8–11 billion by 2100, while reducing the environmental impact of agricultural practices. The agricultural sector accounts for 21–37% of global greenhouse gas emissions, 70% of freshwater, and contributes considerably to biodiversity loss and challenges that are further intensified by climate change. Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) serves as a sustainable strategy to address global food production and promote consistency and resource-efficient crop production. However, nutrient imbalances remain a key challenge in hydroponic CEA systems. To address these nutrient-related challenges, plant sap analysis is being considered as real-time monitoring tool and precise nutrient management in CEA systems. Compared to traditional nutrient tissue analysis, sap analysis shows stronger correlations with crop performance during active growth. For instance, petiole sap nitrate-nitrogen (NO₃⁻-N) and total nitrogen (N) in tomato leaves show correlation coefficients of r = 0.6–0.8 during their rapid vegetative growth stages. Sap analysis shows potential improvements in nutrient efficiency, crop quality, and sustainability within CEA. This review investigates the principles, methodologies, and advancements in plant sap analysis, contrasting it with traditional nutrient testing methods. It also addresses challenges such as variability in sap composition, the lack of standardized protocols, and economic considerations, while emphasizing real-time nutrient management to achieve and sustainability in CEA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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22 pages, 3673 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Optimizing Micropropagation of Tanacetum balsamita L.: A Machine Learning Approach to Compare Semisolid Media and Temporary Immersion System

by Carla Benelli, Cecilia Faraloni, Tolga İzgü, Özhan Şimşek and Waed Tarraf

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101173 - 1 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1313

Abstract

Tanacetum balsamita L. is a medicinal and aromatic plant of high economic value, yet its tissue culture and micropropagation protocols remain poorly developed. This study evaluated and compared two in vitro culture systems, semisolid medium (SS) and Temporary Immersion System (TIS), for enhancing [...] Read more.

Tanacetum balsamita L. is a medicinal and aromatic plant of high economic value, yet its tissue culture and micropropagation protocols remain poorly developed. This study evaluated and compared two in vitro culture systems, semisolid medium (SS) and Temporary Immersion System (TIS), for enhancing biomass production and growth performance, in terms of relative growth rate (RGR), photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll content, antiradical capacity, and anatomical development. The results demonstrated that the TIS significantly improved RGR, photosynthetic performance, and antiradical activity, and promoted the anatomical development that facilitated greenhouse acclimatization. Machine learning (ML) models, including Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and Random Forest (RF), were employed to predict morphological and biochemical traits. MLP achieved the highest predictive accuracy (R² > 0.95) and lowest error metrics for complex, nonlinear traits such as chlorophyll content and antiradical activity, whereas RF excelled in predicting morphological traits with more uniform variance, such as leaf number and shoot length. Overall, this study demonstrates that the TIS provides a high-yield, economically crucial strategy for the micropropagation of T. balsamita, and that integrating ML-based predictive modeling can enhance parameter optimization and phenotyping precision. This combined approach offers a valuable framework for advancing tissue culture research in medicinal and aromatic plants through both production efficiency and data-driven decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Propagation and Seeds)

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17 pages, 1180 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Enhancing Sweet Cherry Quality Through Calcium and Ascophyllum nodosum Foliar Applications

by Marlene Santos, Helena Ferreira, João Ricardo Sousa, Alice Vilela, Carlos Ribeiro, Marcos Egea-Cortines, Manuela Matos and Berta Gonçalves

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101171 - 1 Oct 2025

Viewed by 1161

Abstract

Climate change significantly impacts fruit production and yield, affecting its commercial value. Foliar fertilization emerges as a fast and targeted strategy to address crop nutrient deficiencies and enhance fruit quality. Sweet cherry is among the most highly valued and widely appreciated fruit crops [...] Read more.

Climate change significantly impacts fruit production and yield, affecting its commercial value. Foliar fertilization emerges as a fast and targeted strategy to address crop nutrient deficiencies and enhance fruit quality. Sweet cherry is among the most highly valued and widely appreciated fruit crops globally. This study was conducted over two consecutive years on the sweet cherry cv. Sweetheart. Calcium (300 g hL⁻¹ and 150 g hL⁻¹) and a seaweed-based biostimulant (150 mL hL⁻¹ and 75 mL hL⁻¹), as well as a combination of both nutrients (300 g hL⁻¹ calcium and 150 mL hL⁻¹ seaweed), in addition to a control treatment (water), were applied at the foliar level to improve sweet cherry quality. To assess cherry quality, including biometric, chromatic, texture, and biochemical parameters, as well as the sensory analysis, fruits from each treatment were harvested at the commercial maturity stage. Calcium treatments improved fruit size, total soluble solids, and firmness, while also delaying fruit ripening by increasing titratable acidity. The seaweed-based biostimulant enhanced fruit size, promoted color development, and accelerated ripening. Together, these findings highlight the crucial role of calcium in improving sweet cherry quality and underscore seaweed-based biostimulants as a promising and sustainable strategy for enhancing fruit quality. Although cherry quality is highly affected by environmental conditions, this study demonstrated that calcium fertilization, either alone or in combination with seaweed, enhances sweet cherry quality attributes, making it a suitable strategy for application in commercial orchards and for the global improvement of sweet cherry production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Cherry Crop Systems: Toward Sustainable and Resilient Production)

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22 pages, 4767 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diversity and Function Potentials of Seed Endophytic Microbiota in a Chinese Medicinal Herb Panax notoginseng

by Hong-Yan Hu, Yun Wen, Shu-Cun Geng, Yu-Nuo Zhang, Yu-Bo Zhao, Xiao-Xia Pan, You-Yong Zhu, Xia-Hong He and Ming-Zhi Yang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101162 - 29 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1313

Abstract

As an important complementation of plant genetic traits, seed endophytes (SEs) have garnered significant attention due to their crucial roles in plant germination and early seedling establishment. In this study, we employed both culture-dependent and amplicon sequencing-based approaches to characterize the endophytic microbiome [...] Read more.

As an important complementation of plant genetic traits, seed endophytes (SEs) have garnered significant attention due to their crucial roles in plant germination and early seedling establishment. In this study, we employed both culture-dependent and amplicon sequencing-based approaches to characterize the endophytic microbiome in seed samples derived from different individual Panax notoginseng plants. Additionally, we evaluated the antagonistic activity of isolated culturable bacterial SEs against the root rot pathogens Fusarium solani and F. oxysporum. Our results demonstrated that a greater sampling quantity substantially increased the species richness (Observed OTUs) and diversity of seed endophytic microbiota, underscoring the importance of seed population size in facilitating the vertical transmission of diverse endophytes to progeny. The endophytic communities (including both fungi and bacteria) exhibited a conserved core microbiota alongside host-specific rare taxa, forming a phylogenetically and functionally diverse endophytic resource pool. Core bacterial genera included Streptococcus, Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum, Sphingomonas, Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia, Pantoea, Halomonas, Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, Vibrio, and Luteibacter, while core fungal genera comprised Davidiella, Thermomyces, Botryotinia, Myrothecium, Haematonectria, and Chaetomium. Among 256 isolated endophytic bacterial strains, 11 exhibited strong inhibitory effects on the mycelial growth of F. solani and F. oxysporum. Further evaluation revealed that two antagonistic strains, Bacillus cereus and B. toyonensis, significantly enhanced seed germination and plant growth in P. notoginseng, and effectively suppressed root rot disease in seedlings. These findings highlight the potential use of SEs as biocontrol agents and growth promoters in sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Omics Era in Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Towards a New Age of Agriculture and Sustainability)

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19 pages, 355 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Moderate Deficit Irrigation and Reduced Nitrogen Application Maintain Tuber Quality and Improve Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

by Abdulssamad M. H. Barka, Samuel Y. C. Essah and Jessica G. Davis

Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101159 - 28 Sep 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1022

Abstract

Efficient water and nitrogen (N) management are essential for sustaining potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production under limited resource conditions. This study investigated the effects of deficit irrigation and reduced N application on tuber quality parameters including specific gravity (SG), starch content (SC), [...] Read more.

Efficient water and nitrogen (N) management are essential for sustaining potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) production under limited resource conditions. This study investigated the effects of deficit irrigation and reduced N application on tuber quality parameters including specific gravity (SG), starch content (SC), and tuber dry matter (TDM) as well as agronomic water use efficiency (WUE) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in four commercial potato cultivars (Canela Russet, Mesa Russet, Russet Norkotah 3, and Yukon Gold) over two seasons (2016 and 2017) at Colorado State University’s San Luis Valley Research Center. Three irrigation levels (100%, ~80%, and ~70% evapotranspiration replacement) and two N application rates (165 and 131 kg N ha⁻¹) were evaluated using four replications. Moderate deficit irrigation (up to ~18% ET reduction) improved or maintained SG, SC, and TDM in all four cultivars, while severe deficit irrigation (~30–40% reduction) reduced tuber quality. Reduced N application improved NUE in all cultivars without compromising tuber quality or yield. While WUE responded variably to deficit irrigation, NUE was highest under moderate to full irrigation and low N rate. Although effects on WUE were variable, integrating moderate deficit irrigation (18%) with reduced N application (20%) enhanced NUE while maintaining tuber quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Nutrient Management for Enhancing the Yield and Quality of Horticultural Crops)

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