Agronomy

27 pages, 1696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil–Plant Biochemical Interactions Under Agricultural Byproduct Amendments and Potassium Humate: Enhancing Soil Function and Bioactive Compounds in Sunflower Sprouts

by Thidarat Rupngam, Patchimaporn Udomkun, Thirasant Boonupara and Puangrat Kaewlom

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1651; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071651 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study presents an integrated approach to sustainable soil and crop management by evaluating the individual and combined effects of cow manure (CM), rice husk biochar (RHB), and potassium humate (KH)—three underutilized, low-cost organic amendments derived from agricultural byproducts. Uniquely, it investigates how [...] Read more.

This study presents an integrated approach to sustainable soil and crop management by evaluating the individual and combined effects of cow manure (CM), rice husk biochar (RHB), and potassium humate (KH)—three underutilized, low-cost organic amendments derived from agricultural byproducts. Uniquely, it investigates how these amendments simultaneously affect soil physical and chemical properties, plant growth, and the accumulation of bioactive compounds in sunflower sprouts, thereby linking soil health to crop nutritional quality. The application of 2% w/w KH alone resulted in the greatest increases in macroaggregation (+0.51), soil pH (from 6.8 to 8.6), and electrical conductivity (+298%). The combination of 1% w/w CM and 2% KH led to the highest increases in soil organic carbon (OC, +62.9%) and soil respiration (+56.4%). Nitrate and available phosphorus (P) peaked with 3% w/w RHB + 2% KH (+120%) and 1% w/w CM + 0.5% KH (+35.5%), respectively. For plant traits, 0.5% w/w KH increased the total leaf area by 61.9%, while 1% w/w CM enhanced shoot and root biomass by 60.8% and 79.0%, respectively. In contrast, 2% w/w KH reduced chlorophyll content (−43.6%). Regarding bioactive compounds, the highest total phenolic content (TPC) was observed with 1% w/w KH (+21.9%), while the strongest DPPH antioxidant activity was found under 1% w/w CM + 1% w/w KH (+72.6%). A correlation analysis revealed that biomass production and secondary metabolite accumulation are shaped by trade-offs arising from resource allocation under stress or nutrient limitations. Potassium, P, soil microbial respiration, and OC emerged as key integrators connecting soil structure, fertility, and plant metabolic responses. Overall, the combination of 1% w/w CM with 0.5–1% w/w KH proved to be the most effective strategy under the tested conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 4535 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Water and Salt Dynamics in Cultivated, Abandoned, and Lake Systems Under Irrigation Reduction in the Hetao Irrigation District

by Lina Hao, Guoshuai Wang, Vijay P. Singh and Tingxi Liu

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1650; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071650 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

The shifting irrigation reduction in the Hetao Irrigation District and the inability to effectively discharge salts from the system have led to significant changes in salt migration patterns. Based on the integration of long-term field observations (2017–2023) with soil hydrodynamics and solute transport [...] Read more.

The shifting irrigation reduction in the Hetao Irrigation District and the inability to effectively discharge salts from the system have led to significant changes in salt migration patterns. Based on the integration of long-term field observations (2017–2023) with soil hydrodynamics and solute transport models, this study explored the impact of irrigation reduction on water and salt migration in a cropland–wasteland–lake system. The results indicated that before and after the reduction in irrigation and decline in groundwater levels, the migration rates of groundwater from croplands to wastelands and from wastelands to lakes remained relatively stable, averaging 78% and 40%. During the crop growth period, after irrigation reduction and groundwater level decline, the volume of groundwater recharging lakes from wastelands decreased by 80–120 mm, causing a water deficit in the lakes of 679–789 mm. After irrigation reduction and groundwater level decline, during the crop growth period, 1402 kg/ha of salt remained in the wasteland groundwater, and 597–861 kg/ha of salt accumulated in the cropland groundwater, exceeding previous levels, leading to salinization in the cropland and wasteland groundwater. This study provides insights relevant to managing groundwater and soil salinity in irrigation areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil and Water Management and Conservation in Regenerative Agriculture)

18 pages, 1870 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flowering and Morphology Responses of Greenhouse Ornamentals to End-of-Day Blue-Dominant Lighting with Different Phytochrome Photostationary States

by Yun Kong, Qingming Li, David Llewellyn and Youbin Zheng

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1649; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071649 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

To investigate whether blue-dominant spectra from end-of-day (EOD) lighting can regulate crop morphological and flowering responses, chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium; obligate short day), geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum; day neutral), calibrachoa (Calibrachoa × hybrida; facultative long day), and gerbera ( [...] Read more.

To investigate whether blue-dominant spectra from end-of-day (EOD) lighting can regulate crop morphological and flowering responses, chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium; obligate short day), geranium (Pelargonium × hortorum; day neutral), calibrachoa (Calibrachoa × hybrida; facultative long day), and gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii; facultative short day) plants were grown under different light-emitting diode (LED) spectrum treatments from January to April 2020, in Guelph, Canada. The spectrum treatments were (1) no EOD lighting, (2) narrowband blue from LEDs (B), (3) a combination of narrowband blue, red, and far-red LEDs with a photon flux ratio of 47:3:1 (blue:red:far-red; BRFR). The B and BRFR treatments ran daily from 0.5 h to 4.5 h after dusk. Compared to the control without EOD lighting, chrysanthemum flower initiation was completely inhibited under BRFR. Flowering time was slightly delayed, but flower bud number increased under B. Side branch number, leaf area, and main stem length and diameter increased under B and BRFR. In the geranium B and BRFR did not affect flowering, but increased side branch number and length and diameter of the main stem. Both spectrum treatments promoted earlier flowering in the calibrachoa, but BRFR produced more flower buds. The calibrachoa aerial dry biomass and main stem length increased under B and BRFR. The gerbera leaf chlorophyll index and leaf thickness increased under BRFR. Both spectrum treatments increased the gerbera flower bud size, despite having little effect on flowering time. In all species, at least one of the LED treatments increased canopy size. Therefore, low levels of B or BRFR can be potentially used for EOD lighting to regulate the flowering and morphology of potted ornamentals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanism of Flower Growth in Ornamental Plants: From Floral Induction to Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 2082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Effect of Nitrogen Fertilizer Management on Rice Productivity and Quality

by Yongkang Teng, Rongjie Chen, Meng Guo, Xianguan Chen and Min Jiang

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1648; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071648 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigated how nitrogen fertilizer management influences the yield and grain quality of two rice cultivars, Nanjing 9108 (a late-maturing medium japonica) and Ming 1 Youzhenzhan (a three-line indica hybrid). Three field experiments were conducted to assess different nitrogen application strategies, including [...] Read more.

This study investigated how nitrogen fertilizer management influences the yield and grain quality of two rice cultivars, Nanjing 9108 (a late-maturing medium japonica) and Ming 1 Youzhenzhan (a three-line indica hybrid). Three field experiments were conducted to assess different nitrogen application strategies, including total nitrogen reduction, panicle-stage nitrogen reduction, and substitution of chemical fertilizer with compound fertilizer. The experiments analyzed changes in rice nitrogen uptake and transport efficiency, yield and its components, and quality and its components under different nitrogen application treatments, and fitted a function based on the effect of total nitrogen fertilizer on quality. Taking into account four quality indicators and ensuring yield reduction is less than 30%, replacing 100% chemical fertilizer with compound fertilizer in Nanjing 9108 was the optimal strategy for significantly improving quality. Reducing panicle fertilizer by 50% or omitting it also significantly improved quality. Replacing chemical fertilizers with 50% compound fertilizer also maintained nutritional quality. Reducing total nitrogen fertilizer by 25% in Ming 1 Youzhenzhan was the optimal strategy for significantly enhancing quality. Replacing chemical fertilizer with 100% compound fertilizer significantly improved quality. Reducing panicle fertilizer by 50% and substituting 50% of chemical fertilizer with compound fertilizer also significantly improved quality. Taking into account the synergistic effects of nitrogen application measures on rice yield and quality, the performance of the two rice varieties is not identical. The results showed that nitrogen fertilizer management significantly affected both yield and quality, with responses varying between the two varieties. But the two varieties can ensure optimal quality under yield conditions by reducing panicle fertilizer application by 50% and replacing chemical fertilizers with compound fertilizers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Fertilizer-Based Management Alters Soil N₂O Emissions and Silicon Availability in Moso Bamboo Forests

by Jie Yang, Kecheng Wang, Jiamei Chen, Lili Fan, Peikun Jiang and Rong Zheng

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1647; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071647 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

Long-term intensive management practices in Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests, primarily characterized by repeated fertilizer application, tillage, and biomass harvesting, can alter soil nutrient cycling and ecosystem stability. This study aimed to assess how such fertilizer-based management affects soil N₂ [...] Read more.

Long-term intensive management practices in Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forests, primarily characterized by repeated fertilizer application, tillage, and biomass harvesting, can alter soil nutrient cycling and ecosystem stability. This study aimed to assess how such fertilizer-based management affects soil N₂O emission potential and silicon (Si) availability. We collected soil samples (0–20 cm) from bamboo stands subjected to 0–39 years of intensive management and from adjacent natural broad-leaved forests as a reference. The Soil pH, nitrogen forms, nitrification and denitrification potential, and Si concentrations were measured. The results showed significant nitrogen accumulation and progressive soil acidification with increasing management duration. The nitrification and denitrification potentials were 5.7 and 6.0 times higher in the 39-year-old stand compared to unmanaged bamboo. Meanwhile, the available Si decreased by 20.1%, despite stable total Si levels. The available Si showed strong positive correlations with nitrogen forms and transformation rates. These findings highlight the long-term impact of fertilizer-driven bamboo management on soil biogeochemistry and emphasize the need to consider Si dynamics in sustainable nutrient strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Eco-Physiology and Nutrient Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 9189 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Mutation of the Coat Protein (CP) Gene in Alfalfa Mosaic Virus (AMV) and White Clover Mosaic Virus (WCMV) Combined Infection and the Role of the WCMV CP Gene When Infected with AMV

by Yinge Chen, Qiaolan Liang, Liexin Wei, Xin Zhou and Shiyu Lai

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071646 - 7 Jul 2025

Abstract

Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is one of the most widely distributed viruses. It often exhibits combined infection with white clover mosaic virus (WCMV) and occurs with a synergistic effect at 3:1 (AMV: WCMV). This study sought to clarify whether this synergistic effect is [...] Read more.

Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is one of the most widely distributed viruses. It often exhibits combined infection with white clover mosaic virus (WCMV) and occurs with a synergistic effect at 3:1 (AMV: WCMV). This study sought to clarify whether this synergistic effect is related to the molecular mutation of the coat protein (CP) sequences of the two viruses and their interactions, as well as the effect of the WCMV CP concentration on infection with AMV. This study identified and analyzed the CP sequences of two viruses after the co-infection of AMV and WCMV in Nicotiana benthamiana and found that the CP sequences of the two viruses mutated after co-infection with AMV and WCMV compared with the sequences from separate single infections with each virus. The mutation rate of the nucleotide bases was 7.66% and 3.37% in the Co-AMV CP and Co-WCMV CP, respectively, and 9.05% and 5.77% in the amino acid, respectively. The effect of WCMV CP and AMV at different proportions antagonistically affected infection with AMV when the proportion of WCMV CP: AMV was 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1. These proportions of treatment alleviated the symptoms caused by infection with N. benthamiana and reduced the relative expression of the AMV CP by 0.56, 0.47, and 0.76-fold, respectively, compared with single infection by AMV. Thus, the CP sequences of both viruses mutated after the co-infection of AMV and WCMV, and a proportion of WCMV CP: AMV of 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1 inhibited infection by AMV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Pest and Disease Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 4447 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ripe-Detection: A Lightweight Method for Strawberry Ripeness Detection

by Helong Yu, Cheng Qian, Zhenyang Chen, Jing Chen and Yuxin Zhao

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1645; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071645 - 6 Jul 2025

Abstract

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa), a nutrient-dense fruit with significant economic value in commercial cultivation, faces critical detection challenges in automated harvesting due to complex growth conditions such as foliage occlusion and variable illumination. To address these limitations, this study proposes Ripe-Detection, [...] Read more.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa), a nutrient-dense fruit with significant economic value in commercial cultivation, faces critical detection challenges in automated harvesting due to complex growth conditions such as foliage occlusion and variable illumination. To address these limitations, this study proposes Ripe-Detection, a novel lightweight object detection framework integrating three key innovations: a PEDblock detection head architecture with depth-adaptive feature learning capability, an ADown downsampling method for enhanced detail perception with reduced computational overhead, and BiFPN-based hierarchical feature fusion with learnable weighting mechanisms. Developed using a purpose-built dataset of 1021 annotated strawberry images (Fragaria × ananassa ‘Red Face’ and ‘Sachinoka’ varieties) from Changchun Xiaohongmao Plantation and augmented through targeted strategies to enhance model robustness, the framework demonstrates superior performance over existing lightweight detectors, achieving mAP50 improvements of 13.0%, 9.2%, and 3.9% against YOLOv7-tiny, YOLOv10n, and YOLOv11n, respectively. Remarkably, the architecture attains 96.4% mAP50 with only 1.3M parameters (57% reduction from baseline) and 4.4 GFLOPs (46% lower computation), simultaneously enhancing accuracy while significantly reducing resource requirements, thereby providing a robust technical foundation for automated ripeness assessment and precision harvesting in agricultural robotics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Precision and Digital Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supplementary Light and Retardant Application During the Rooting Stage Improve the Final Performances of Petunia and Calibrachoa Plants

by Bożena Szewczyk-Taranek, Iwona Domagała-Świątkiewicz, Anna Kapczyńska, Paweł Marcinkowski and Bożena Pawłowska

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1644; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071644 - 6 Jul 2025

Abstract

The efficient production of high-quality bedding plants is essential for greenhouse growers aiming to meet market demands while minimising costs. This study investigated the effects of supplemental lighting (prolonged photoperiod) and retardant treatments on the growth, development, mineral composition, and flowering of vegetatively [...] Read more.

The efficient production of high-quality bedding plants is essential for greenhouse growers aiming to meet market demands while minimising costs. This study investigated the effects of supplemental lighting (prolonged photoperiod) and retardant treatments on the growth, development, mineral composition, and flowering of vegetatively propagated Petunia × atkinsiana (Surfinia^® ‘Lime’ and ‘Purple’) and Calibrachoa × hybrida (Superbells^® ‘Unique Red’ and ‘Unique Golden Yellow’) cultivars. The plants were subjected to extended lighting for up to 16 h during the rooting phase and treated with or without a growth retardant. The supplemental light significantly accelerated the flowering, improved the shoot branching, and enhanced the mineral nutrient accumulation, particularly of calcium, sulphur, and magnesium. The illuminated plants also exhibited higher chlorophyll content and more favourable dry-mass accumulation. The growth retardants reduced the plant height and concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium but increased the calcium and magnesium contents. The combination of lighting and growth regulation optimised the plant morphology and nutritional status, producing compact, well-branched plants with enhanced visual appeal. Earlier flowering of illuminated plants is valuable from a commercial perspective, allowing earlier selling and improved product marketability. These findings confirm the synergistic benefits of early photoperiod control and chemical growth regulation in enhancing the commercial quality and sustainability of bedding plant production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 792 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring the Sustainability of Nitrogen Fertilization in EU Agriculture: A New Index-Based Assessment in the Context of Sustainable Intensification

by Magdalena Szymańska, Piotr Sulewski, Adam Wąs and Tomasz Sosulski

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1643; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071643 - 6 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study comprehensively evaluated nitrogen (N) management in 27 European countries from 1990 to 2021, utilizing the FAO and LUCAS databases. The EU countries were categorized into four groups based on their agricultural production intensities: low (L), medium–low (ML), medium–high (MH), and high [...] Read more.

This study comprehensively evaluated nitrogen (N) management in 27 European countries from 1990 to 2021, utilizing the FAO and LUCAS databases. The EU countries were categorized into four groups based on their agricultural production intensities: low (L), medium–low (ML), medium–high (MH), and high (H). Additionally, a new Sustainable Nitrogen Management Indicator (SNMI) has been introduced to measure the sustainability of agricultural production. The analyses reveal significant variation in nitrogen fertilization intensity among EU countries, which correlates with differences in yield levels. Generally, higher fertilization leads to higher nutrient loss; however, the nitrogen losses per unit of yield show only minor differences between high- and low-intensity countries. From 1990 to 2021, a general improvement was observed in nitrogen management across all groups, as evidenced by a significant decline in the SNMI, indicating that agricultural production has become more sustainable. Notably, low-intensity countries showed the most significant improvement, with increased nitrogen input per hectare since the 1990s, demonstrating that moderate fertilization can enhance N use efficiency. In contrast, high-intensity countries saw decreased nitrogen inputs but still improved SNMI. These trends support the idea of sustainable intensification. The multidimensional SNMI comprehensively assesses eco-efficiency by highlighting environmental threats and production benefits. This paper demonstrates that SNMI is robust and easy to calculate using available datasets, and it can be implemented to assess nitrogen management efficiency at various scales. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safe and Efficient Utilization of Water and Fertilizer in Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 8004 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Development of an Air Suction Precision Seed-Metering Device for Rice Plot Breeding

by Wei Qin, Yuwu Li, Cheng Qian, Zhuorong Fan, Daoqing Yan, Guo Zou, Siqian Liu, Zaiman Wang, Ying Zang and Minghua Zhang

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1642; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071642 - 5 Jul 2025

Abstract

To address the lack of specialized seeding equipment and low manual seeding efficiency in rice plot breeding, this study developed an air suction precision seed-metering device for rice plot breeding, featuring automatic seed-switching and seed-clearing functions controlled by an STM32 microcontroller. Firstly, based [...] Read more.

To address the lack of specialized seeding equipment and low manual seeding efficiency in rice plot breeding, this study developed an air suction precision seed-metering device for rice plot breeding, featuring automatic seed-switching and seed-clearing functions controlled by an STM32 microcontroller. Firstly, based on morphological analysis and MATLAB image processing, an active contour method was used to construct a suction hole model. Secondly, to meet the non-contaminated switching requirements between rice varieties, an electrically controlled seed-switching and seed-clearing mechanism was developed based on QR code-based precise recognition and positioning. Using 10 rice varieties as experimental materials, performance tests were conducted. The results showed that the seed-switching mechanism had single and cumulative errors under 0.4°, and the seed-clearing rate reached 100% with an average clearing time below 0.88 s. At a rotational speed of 20 r·min⁻¹ and negative pressure of 3200 Pa, seed-filling performance was optimal for all rice varieties. Among them, the rice variety Nayou 6388 exhibited the best seed-filling performance, with a 0.8% missing seed rate, 97.6% single and double seed rate, and 1.6% multiple seed rate. In double-row coordinated tests, each seed-metering device independently completed seed switching and maintained synchronized operation, meeting agronomic requirements for accurate seed switching/clearing and precision seed filling in rice plot breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advances of Agricultural Robotics in Sustainable Agriculture 4.0)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 4667 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Experimental Study on the Charging Effects and Atomization Characteristics of a Two-Stage Induction-Type Electrostatic Spraying System for Aerial Plant Protection

by Yufei Li, Qingda Li, Jun Hu, Changxi Liu, Shengxue Zhao, Wei Zhang and Yafei Wang

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1641; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071641 - 5 Jul 2025

Abstract

To address the technical problems of broad droplet size spectrum, insufficient atomization uniformity, and spray drift in plant protection unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications, this study developed a novel two-stage aerial electrostatic spraying device based on the coupled mechanisms of hydraulic atomization and [...] Read more.

To address the technical problems of broad droplet size spectrum, insufficient atomization uniformity, and spray drift in plant protection unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications, this study developed a novel two-stage aerial electrostatic spraying device based on the coupled mechanisms of hydraulic atomization and electrostatic induction, and, through the integration of three-dimensional numerical simulation and additive manufacturing technology, a new two-stage inductive charging device was designed on the basis of the traditional hydrodynamic nozzle structure, and a synergistic optimization study of the charging effect and atomization characteristics was carried out systematically. With the help of a charge ratio detection system and Malvern laser particle sizer, spray pressure (0.25–0.35 MPa), charging voltage (0–16 kV), and spray height (100–1000 mm) were selected as the key parameters, and the interaction mechanism of each parameter on the droplet charge ratio (C/m) and the particle size distribution (Dv50) was analyzed through the Box–Behnken response surface experimental design. The experimental data showed that when the charge voltage was increased to 12 kV, the droplet charge-to-mass ratio reached a peak value of 1.62 mC/kg (p < 0.01), which was 83.6% higher than that of the base condition; the concentration of the particle size distribution of the charged droplets was significantly improved; charged droplets exhibited a 23.6% reduction in Dv50 (p < 0.05) within the 0–200 mm core atomization zone below the nozzle, with the coefficient of variation of volume median diameter decreasing from 28.4% to 16.7%. This study confirms that the two-stage induction structure can effectively break through the charge saturation threshold of traditional electrostatic spraying, which provides a theoretical basis and technical support for the optimal design of electrostatic spraying systems for plant protection UAVs. This technology holds broad application prospects in agricultural settings such as orchards and farmlands. It can significantly enhance the targeted deposition efficiency of pesticides, reducing drift losses and chemical usage, thereby enabling agricultural enterprises to achieve practical economic benefits, including reduced operational costs, improved pest control efficacy, and minimized environmental pollution, while generating environmental benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4162 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silver Nanoparticles Embedded in Sodium Alginate: Antibacterial Efficacy and Effects on Red Cabbage Seedling Performance

by Miłosz Rutkowski, Wojciech Makowski, Lidia Krzemińska-Fiedorowicz, Karen Khachatryan, Andrzej Kalisz, Dagmara Malina, Jarosław Chwastowski, Zbigniew Wzorek, Gohar Khachatryan, Agnieszka Sękara and Anna Kołton

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071640 - 5 Jul 2025

Abstract

Innovative plant protection solutions are increasingly sought in modern agriculture. Rapid advances in nanotechnology offer promising opportunities to develop biodegradable, cost-effective composites containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with well-documented antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study was to synthesize sodium alginate gels containing AgNPs, [...] Read more.

Innovative plant protection solutions are increasingly sought in modern agriculture. Rapid advances in nanotechnology offer promising opportunities to develop biodegradable, cost-effective composites containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with well-documented antimicrobial properties. The aim of this study was to synthesize sodium alginate gels containing AgNPs, evaluate their physicochemical and antibacterial properties, and assess their effect on the growth of red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra) seedlings. In accordance with the principles of green chemistry, AgNPs were chemically synthesized using sodium alginate as a stabilizer and fructose as a non-toxic reducing agent. The final composite contained 150 mg/L AgNPs and was diluted to 20 and 60 mg/L for biological tests. Antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa was tested using agar diffusion assays. Seedling growth parameters and phytochemical content were assessed after 10 days of seedlings exposure to AgNPs. The results showed significant antibacterial activity in all tested strains. Crucially, neither AgNPs concentration negatively affected seedling development or phytochemical concentration. Application of AgNPs at concentration of 60 mg/L increased ascorbic acid and carotenoids content in comparison to control (deionized water). These results suggest that AgNPs-alginate composites may serve as sustainable antimicrobial agents in agriculture, inhibiting pathogens without compromising crop quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Nanomaterials for Diseases and Pest Control in Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 3322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adequate Irrigation Amount per Application Is Required to Secure Uniform Water Management in Drip Irrigation Systems

by Sooeon Lee, Lynne Seymour and Jongyun Kim

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1639; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071639 - 5 Jul 2025

Abstract

Soil moisture sensor-based drip irrigation enables efficient irrigation practices by delivering the required water to plants. However, efficiency must be accompanied by uniform water management and crop growth. This study examined the effect of different irrigation amounts (IAs) per application (5.5, 55, 110, [...] Read more.

Soil moisture sensor-based drip irrigation enables efficient irrigation practices by delivering the required water to plants. However, efficiency must be accompanied by uniform water management and crop growth. This study examined the effect of different irrigation amounts (IAs) per application (5.5, 55, 110, and 165 mL) on the uniformity of substrate volumetric water content (VWC) within an irrigation plot, and the corresponding effect on sweet basil growth uniformity. Sixty-four frequency domain reflectometry sensors monitored the VWC of each 440 mL pot, and drip irrigation was automatically applied at 0.3 m³·m⁻³. The 5.5 mL IA showed the highest water use efficiency; however, it also resulted in considerable non-uniform VWC (coefficient of variation, CV = 0.404). In contrast, the 110 and 165 mL IAs provided better VWC uniformity (CV = 0.073 and 0.075, respectively), suggesting that less frequent, but larger IAs improved VWC uniformity. Despite the differences in VWC uniformity among treatments, the growth and physiological responses were quite similar across the treatments. It was found that supplying 110 mL irrigation water via the soil moisture sensor-based drip irrigation system to sweet basil plants in 440 mL pots is optimal for achieving both water use efficiency and VWC uniformity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1253 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Laboratory Optimization of Poultry Feather Hydrolysate Application for Soil Fertility: Effects of Soil Texture and Hydrolysate State and Addition Rate

by Aditi Roy and Veronika Jílková

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071638 - 5 Jul 2025

Abstract

The application of soil organic amendments is a well-established approach to enhancing soil fertility; yet the effects of poultry feather hydrolysate (PFH) on temperate coarse-textured agricultural soils remain underexplored. A six-month microcosm experiment was conducted to determine the effects of PFH in different [...] Read more.

The application of soil organic amendments is a well-established approach to enhancing soil fertility; yet the effects of poultry feather hydrolysate (PFH) on temperate coarse-textured agricultural soils remain underexplored. A six-month microcosm experiment was conducted to determine the effects of PFH in different states (liquid or solid) and addition rates (none, low, or high; i.e., 0, 4, or 8 t dw ha⁻¹, respectively) on microbial activity, nutrient availability and retention, and organic matter (OM) stabilization in two coarse-textured soils (loamy sand or sandy loam). Sandy loam soil exhibited a stronger response to PFH application, supporting 20% higher microbial activity, 35% higher nutrient retention, and 89% higher OM content in soil aggregates compared to loamy sand soil, reflecting enhanced OM stabilization. Moreover, PFH in the liquid state demonstrated more prolonged microbial activity and more sustained release of nutrients compared to the solid state. Finally, at the end of incubation, the high addition rate of PFH significantly increased soil nutrient content by 106%, while the low addition rate limited the increase to 39%, both compared to the no addition rate. Overall, the results suggest that PFH, particularly in the liquid state and at the high addition rate, serves as an effective soil organic amendment, enhancing microbial activity and soil fertility while emphasizing the importance of soil texture in optimizing its application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 4164 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Low-Temperature Plasma Treatment on Germination, Seedling Development, and Biochemical Parameters of Long-Term-Stored Seeds

by Martin Matějovič, Vladislav Čurn, Jan Kubeš, Eva Jozová, Zora Kotíková and Petra Hlásná Čepková

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1637; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071637 - 4 Jul 2025

Abstract

The promising field of low-temperature plasma treatment, known for its non-invasive and environmentally sustainable nature, is being actively investigated for its ability to enhance germination, emergence, yield, and overall plant development in a broad spectrum of crops. For gene bank requirements, low-temperature plasma [...] Read more.

The promising field of low-temperature plasma treatment, known for its non-invasive and environmentally sustainable nature, is being actively investigated for its ability to enhance germination, emergence, yield, and overall plant development in a broad spectrum of crops. For gene bank requirements, low-temperature plasma technologies can also improve germination parameters and promote the development seeds suitable for long-term storage. Seeds from four selected cultivars of wheat, oats, flax, and rapeseed stored in the gene bank for 1, 10, and 20 years were subjected to plasma treatments for 20, 25, and 30 min. The study evaluated the mean root and shoot length, root–shoot ratio, and seedling vigour index. Additionally, the malondialdehyde level, total polyphenol content, total flavonoid content, and total antioxidant capacity were analysed. Plasma treatment displayed varying effects on the morphological characteristics and antioxidant activity of the tested cultivars, which were influenced by treatment duration and cultivar. A positive effect of plasma treatment on seedling length, seedling vigour index, and root–shoot ratio was observed in flax cultivar ‘N-9/62/K3/B’ in all periods and in variants T2 and T3. Conversely, the wheat cultivar ‘Granny’ showed variable results, and the oat cultivar ‘Risto’ showed variable negative results in regards to mean root length and mean shoot length after plasma treatment. The indicators of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity were affected in all the cultivars studied. A positive effect of plasma treatment on these indicators was observed in the wheat cultivar ‘Granny’, while flax cultivar ‘N-9/62/K3/B’ exhibited inconsistent results. While in cereals, a decrease in malondialdehyde content after plasma treatment was associated with an increase in polyphenol and flavonoid content as the treatment duration increased, small-seeded species responded somewhat differently. The rapeseed cultivar ‘Skrivenskij’ and flax cultivar ‘N-9/62/K3/B’ showed an increase in polyphenol and flavonoid content following a decrease in malondialdehyde levels. This study highlights the potential of low-temperature plasma treatment for long-term-stored seeds and its applicability to plant genetic resources. The findings emphasize the need for the further optimization of low-temperature plasma treatment conditions for different plant species and cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Partitioned Recirculating Renovation for Traditional Rice–Fish Farming Induced Substantial Alterations in Bacterial Communities Within Paddy Soil

by Yiran Hou, Hongwei Li, Rui Jia, Linjun Zhou, Bing Li and Jian Zhu

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1636; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071636 - 4 Jul 2025

Abstract

Integrated agriculture–aquaculture (IAA), represented by integrated rice–fish farming, offers a sustainable production method that addresses global food issues and ensures food security. Partitioned recirculating renovation based on traditional integrated rice–fish farming is an effective way to facilitate the convenient harvesting of aquatic products [...] Read more.

Integrated agriculture–aquaculture (IAA), represented by integrated rice–fish farming, offers a sustainable production method that addresses global food issues and ensures food security. Partitioned recirculating renovation based on traditional integrated rice–fish farming is an effective way to facilitate the convenient harvesting of aquatic products and avoid difficulties associated with mechanical operations. To elucidate the impact of partitioned recirculating renovation on the bacterial communities within paddy field ecosystems, we investigated the soil environmental conditions and soil bacterial communities within integrated rice–fish farming, comparing those with and without partitioned recirculating renovations. The findings indicated a significant reduction in the bacterial community richness within paddy soil in the ditch (fish farming area), along with noticeable changes in the relative proportions of the predominant bacterial phyla in both the ditch and the rice cultivation area following the implementation of partitioned recirculating renovation. In both the ditch and the rice cultivation area, partitioned recirculating renovation diminished the edges and nodes in the co-occurrence networks for soil bacterial communities and considerably lowered the robustness index, negatively impacting the stability of bacterial communities in paddy soil. Simultaneously, the partitioned recirculating renovation substantially influenced the bacterial community assembly process, enhancing the relative contributions of stochastic processes such as dispersal limitation, drift, and homogenizing dispersal. In addition, partitioned recirculating renovation significantly altered the soil environmental conditions in both the ditch and the rice cultivation area, with environmental factors being markedly correlated with the soil bacterial community, especially the total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP), which emerged as the primary environmental drivers influencing the soil bacterial community. Overall, these results elucidated the ecological impacts of partitioned recirculating renovation on the paddy soil from a microbiomic perspective, providing a microbial basis for optimizing partitioned rice–fish systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Interactions and Functions in Agricultural Ecosystems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2183 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Light Supplementation on Lettuce Growth, Yield, and Water Use During Winter Season in North Mississippi

by Ibukun T. Ayankojo, Thomas Horgan and Jeff Wilson

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1635; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071635 - 4 Jul 2025

Abstract

Most vegetable crop production in Mississippi (MS) occurs during the summer, characterized by high temperature and relative humidity. Lettuce yield and harvest quality are significantly affected by heat stress. To avoid the heat stress of the summer months, lettuce production in MS is [...] Read more.

Most vegetable crop production in Mississippi (MS) occurs during the summer, characterized by high temperature and relative humidity. Lettuce yield and harvest quality are significantly affected by heat stress. To avoid the heat stress of the summer months, lettuce production in MS is either produced in controlled environments or during the winter months with cooler temperatures. This period, however, coincides with months with low solar radiation and shorter day length, resulting in a longer growing season and poor harvest quality. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the optimum duration of light supplement on the growth, yield, and water use of greenhouse (GH) lettuce during the winter season in north Mississippi. In this study, three daily supplemental light duration regimes, 0 h, 4 h, and 8 h, starting at sunset, were evaluated across two lettuce cultivars, Green Forest (GF) and Ruby (RB). The study indicated that supplemental lighting significantly increased lettuce growth, yield, and water use. Although day length extension from 4 to 8 h of supplemental light had no yield benefits on the RB cultivar, extending day length from 4 to 8 h increased GF yield by 42%. It was also observed that the effects of light supplementation during low natural light quality at early or later growth stages differ between cultivars. Based on the results obtained from this study, a 4 h and 8 h post-sunset light supplementation is considered optimum for RB and GF lettuce cultivars, respectively, during the winter growing season in MS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Tests of a Large-Opening Flexible Seedling Pick-Up Gripper with Multiple Grasping Pins

by Luhua Han, Meijia Zhang, Yan Wang, Guoxin Ma, Qizhi Yang and Yang Liu

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1634; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071634 - 4 Jul 2025

Abstract

The pick-up gripper, as a core component of automatic transplanting systems, presents challenges in reliably grasping seedlings. In this study, a large-opening flexible seedling pick-up gripper was designed based on standard trays and seedling characteristics. Structural design and force analysis of the grasping [...] Read more.

The pick-up gripper, as a core component of automatic transplanting systems, presents challenges in reliably grasping seedlings. In this study, a large-opening flexible seedling pick-up gripper was designed based on standard trays and seedling characteristics. Structural design and force analysis of the grasping mechanism were conducted to develop a functional prototype. As this represented the first prototype of this new gripper, multi-factor orthogonal tests and performance tests under local conditions were performed to evaluate its grasping effectiveness. It was found that the end diameter of the pick-up pin and the extraction speed for lifting plug seedlings vertically had the most significant effects, followed by the penetration depth and grasping force. The optimum grasping effectiveness was achieved when the end diameter of the pick-up pin was 1.2 mm, the penetration depth in the top straight line of the pick-up pin was 40 mm, the grasping force for squeezing root lumps was 0.4 MPa, and the extraction speed for lifting plug seedlings in a vertical direction was 900 mm/s. For typical vegetable seedlings, the average success rate in transplanting was up to 95%. Under the combined actions of penetrating, squeezing, and extracting operations, plug seedlings could be efficiently picked out for efficient transplanting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Operation Technology and Intelligent Equipment in Farmland—3rd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Coffee Silverskin as a Sustainable Peat Additive in the Plant Nursery Production

by Natalia Miler, Piotr Wojewódzki, Anita Woźny, Dominika Rymarz and Agnieszka Gołębiewska

Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071633 - 4 Jul 2025

Abstract

Sustainable alternatives to peat in horticultural substrates are increasingly sought. This study assessed the use of coffee silverskin (CS), a byproduct of coffee roasting, as a substrate component for rooting and growing ornamental plants—Buddleja, Lythrum, and Veronica. Plants were [...] Read more.

Sustainable alternatives to peat in horticultural substrates are increasingly sought. This study assessed the use of coffee silverskin (CS), a byproduct of coffee roasting, as a substrate component for rooting and growing ornamental plants—Buddleja, Lythrum, and Veronica. Plants were cultivated in peat-based substrates with 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% CS addition. In order to determine the effect of substrate modification with CS, the following parameters were analyzed: rooting efficiency, plant growth, pigment content, physiological indices (SPAD, Fv/Fm, NFI), and substrate properties. A 25% CS addition supported high rooting success (94.4% on average) without negatively affecting root or shoot traits, and even improved flowering earliness. At 50% CS, Buddleja showed moderate tolerance, while Lythrum and Veronica performed poorly. The substrate with 75% CS addition significantly reduced rooting and growth across all species. Elevated pH and electrical conductivity in high-CS substrates likely contributed to plant stress. Physiological indicators confirmed minimal stress at 25% CS, but increased stress response at 75%. Overall, CS can replace up to 25% of peat in substrates without compromising plant performance, offering a sustainable alternative in nursery production. However, higher CS levels require structural or chemical adjustments to reduce compaction and stress effects. Further research is needed to improve CS-based substrate formulations for broader horticultural use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Agronomy

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI