Horticulturae

23 pages, 1419 KB

Open AccessArticle

Plastic-Free Packaging in the German Potted Herb Supply Chain: An Interdisciplinary Assessment of Plant Quality and Consumer Behavior

by Anne-Katrin Kleih, Christin Stallkamp, André Reidl, Andreas Ulbrich and Kai Sparke

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1484; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121484 - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Plastic packaging has severe environmental consequences but remains dominant in the German potted herb sector. This interdisciplinary study examined both plant physiological performance and consumer behavior to assess the viability of plastic-free packaging for basil, parsley, and mint. We investigated (i) how plastic [...] Read more.

Plastic packaging has severe environmental consequences but remains dominant in the German potted herb sector. This interdisciplinary study examined both plant physiological performance and consumer behavior to assess the viability of plastic-free packaging for basil, parsley, and mint. We investigated (i) how plastic and plastic-free pots and wraps perform under real production, transportation, and household environmental conditions and (ii) how consumers perceive, use, and dispose of these packaging types in everyday life. Quantitative measurements of temperature, humidity, plant quality, and pot degradation were collected along two supply chains and in 25 households using data loggers and standardized quality assessments. Qualitative insights into consumer practices were obtained through interviews, diaries, photographs, and voice messages during two-week winter and summer household studies. Results show that suboptimal transport temperatures fall below species-specific thresholds, compromising herb quality regardless of packaging type, while plantable pots degrade prematurely under certain cultivation conditions. Although consumers perceive plastic-free alternatives positively, plantable pots were rarely planted and were often disposed of incorrectly. The findings reveal both technical and behavioral barriers that limit the adoption of plastic-free packaging. By integrating upstream supply chain performance with downstream consumer behavior, this study provides insights to guide the development of sustainable, consumer-centric packaging solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Economics, Policy, Business Management and Marketing)

16 pages, 3500 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combining BSA-Seq, High-Density Genetic Map, and RNA-Seq to Identify Candidate Genes Controlling Embryo Spot Trait in Potato

by Jiahao Miao, Min Yang, Nan Li, Jiaji Wang, Jiangqing Wang, Tianzhi Zhang, Zuo Hu, Zhou Li, Jing Liu, Canhui Li and Jing Yang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1483; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121483 - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Embryo spots on potato seed enhance the efficiency of doubled haploid screening by facilitating selection. While the spots are known to involve anthocyanin accumulation, their genetic regulation remains unclear. Here, loci and genes regulating spot formation were investigated. An F₁ population was [...] Read more.

Embryo spots on potato seed enhance the efficiency of doubled haploid screening by facilitating selection. While the spots are known to involve anthocyanin accumulation, their genetic regulation remains unclear. Here, loci and genes regulating spot formation were investigated. An F₁ population was generated by crossing the haploid inducer IVP101 (embryo-spotted male parent) with the diploid inbred line Y8 (non-spotted female parent). Subsequent BSA-seq of the extreme F₁ pools mapped a locus to chromosome 10 (49.96–54.31 Mb). QTL mapping via a high-density genetic map of the F₂ segregating population (derived from F₁ selfing) identified four QTLs (on chromosomes 2, 5, 10, 11). These included the QTLs qSP10-1 (explaining 23.85% of phenotypic variance) and qSP11-1 (18.23%). qSP11-1 overlapped with the reported P locus encoding flavonoid 3′,5′-hydroxylase (F3′5′H), whereas qSP10-1 confirmed the BSA-seq results. Integration of the BSA-seq and QTL mapping results narrowed the target gene locus to a 384.6 kb interval at the end of chromosome 10. Transcriptome sequencing of spotted vs. non-spotted F₁ seed, together with gene expression profiling in the qSP10-1 interval, identified five differentially expressed candidate genes. These findings clarify the genetic basis of potato embryo spot formation and provide a reference for breeding and further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Propagation and Seeds)

20 pages, 5062 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptome-Wide Survey of LBD Transcription Factors in Actinidia valvata Under Waterlogging Stress and Functional Analysis of Two AvLBD41 Members

by Zhi Li, Ling Gan, Xinghui Wang, Wenjing Si, Haozhao Fang, Jinbao Fang, Yunpeng Zhong, Yameng Yang, Fenglian Ma, Xiaona Ji, Qiang Zhang, Leilei Li and Tao Zhu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1482; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121482 - 8 Dec 2025

Abstract

Actinidia valvata, a promising rootstock for kiwifruit cultivation, demonstrates superior waterlogging tolerance compared with commercial cultivars. Lateral organ boundaries domain (LBD) transcription factors (TFs) are known to be pivotal in plant responses to abiotic stress. Nevertheless, the characterization of the LBD family [...] Read more.

Actinidia valvata, a promising rootstock for kiwifruit cultivation, demonstrates superior waterlogging tolerance compared with commercial cultivars. Lateral organ boundaries domain (LBD) transcription factors (TFs) are known to be pivotal in plant responses to abiotic stress. Nevertheless, the characterization of the LBD family under waterlogging stress in A. valvata remains limited. In this study, 26 AvLBD genes were identified from a transcriptome dataset, with the majority classified into phylogenetic Class II. Under waterlogging stress, transcript accumulation of most AvLBD41 members, particularly AvLBD41_11 and AvLBD41_7, was markedly increased in roots. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) assays indicated that AvLBD41_7 heterodimerizes with both the AP2/ERF activator AvERF75 and the trihelix repressor AvHRA1, whereas AvLBD41_11 only interacts with AvERF75. Neither AvLBD41 isoform interacts with AvERF73, thereby defining distinct components of a waterlogging-responsive module. Yeast-based assays revealed an absence of transactivation activity for AvLBD41_7, and transient expression analyses confirmed its exclusive nuclear localization. The promoters of both AvLBD41_11 and AvLBD41_7 harbor numerous cis-elements responsive to hormones and abiotic stresses. An AvLBD41_7-derived PCR marker could be used to distinguish A. valvata from A. deliciosa accessions. Collectively, these findings provide a comprehensive functional annotation of the LBD gene family in A. valvata and establish AvLBD41_7 as a potential molecular target for future kiwifruit breeding programs aimed at waterlogging resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Stress Adaptation and Quality Control in Horticultural Plants)

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16 pages, 3014 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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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24 pages, 9089 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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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23 pages, 4157 KB

Open AccessArticle

Projected Shifts in the Growing Season for Plum Orchards in Romania Under Future Climate Change

by Vasile Jitariu, Adrian Ursu, Lilian Niacsu and Pavel Ichim

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121479 - 7 Dec 2025

Abstract

Climate change strongly influences the phenology of temperate fruit species, yet its long-term effects on Romanian plum orchards (Prunus domestica L.) remain insufficiently quantified. This study analyzes projected changes in the start (SGS), end (EGS), and duration (GSL) of the growing season [...] Read more.

Climate change strongly influences the phenology of temperate fruit species, yet its long-term effects on Romanian plum orchards (Prunus domestica L.) remain insufficiently quantified. This study analyzes projected changes in the start (SGS), end (EGS), and duration (GSL) of the growing season under two emission scenarios (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) throughout the 21st century. Using temperature-based phenological thresholds, SGS and EGS were modeled for six orchard clusters representing distinct regional and altitudinal conditions across Romania. Results reveal a consistent advancement of SGS and a marked extension of GSL, particularly under RCP 8.5, where the growing season may lengthen by up to 60 days compared with early-century conditions. Under RCP 4.5, changes are more moderate but directionally similar, indicating a robust climatic signal across all clusters. These findings highlight that earlier and longer vegetation periods may enhance fruit development potential but also increase risks associated with late spring frosts, heat stress, and pollination mismatches. Despite inherent model uncertainties, the convergence of trends suggests reliable projections that can support adaptive orchard management and long-term strategies for sustainable fruit production under a changing climate. Full article

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

24 pages, 4765 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mapping of Cadmium Tolerance-Related QTLs at the Seedling Stage in Diploid Potato Using a High-Density Genetic Map

by Ling Su, Xinqi Li, Lixing Ning, Peng Shu, Qingyi Zhang, Zugen Liu, Xiong Peng, Huili Liu, Yuan Yuan, Dingbo Yuan, Guicheng Liu, Guangyong You, Junfang Chen, Xiaoman Liu, Yi Tao, Yanhong Feng and Jing Yang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1478; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121478 - 7 Dec 2025

Abstract

Potato is globally recognized as the fourth most crucial staple food crop, trailing behind wheat, rice, and maize. Cadmium (Cd), a predominant heavy-metal pollutant in agricultural soils, demonstrates high biological toxicity and mobility. Therefore, exploring the genetic and molecular mechanisms underpinning cadmium tolerance [...] Read more.

Potato is globally recognized as the fourth most crucial staple food crop, trailing behind wheat, rice, and maize. Cadmium (Cd), a predominant heavy-metal pollutant in agricultural soils, demonstrates high biological toxicity and mobility. Therefore, exploring the genetic and molecular mechanisms underpinning cadmium tolerance in potato is of substantial theoretical and practical significance. In this research, an F₂ population composed of 170 families was established through the cross-breeding of homozygous diploid potato lines HD-5 (highly cadmium-tolerant) and M9 (cadmium-sensitive). Employing hydroponic cultivation, six traits, namely plant height (PH), root length (RL), shoot fresh weight (SFW), root fresh weight (RFW), chlorophyll content (SPAD), and nitrogen content (LNC), were measured in potato seedlings following a 9-day treatment with 40 mg·L⁻¹ CdCl₂. By utilizing the high-density genetic map of this population for QTL mapping, a total of 35 genetic loci associated with cadmium tolerance in potato seedlings were identified. Notably, loci21 and loci22 on chromosome 9, loci29 on chromosome 10, and loci31 and loci33 on chromosome 12 were consistently detected across multiple environmental conditions. This reproducibility across environments suggests the phenotypic stability of these five loci, which are thus considered reliable and robust genetic determinants. In addition, transcriptome sequencing analysis of roots from parental lines HD-5 and M9 after cadmium treatment revealed that significantly differentially expressed genes between the two parents were associated with glutathione metabolism and photosynthesis. By integrating QTL mapping, transcriptome analysis, and gene annotation, we screened four candidate genes involved in cadmium tolerance regulation: DM8C09G01000 (GST), DM8C09G01060 (GST), DM8C09G02130 (OXP1), and DM8C06G22960 (PsaH). These findings provide molecular targets and a genetic basis for molecular breeding of cadmium-tolerant potato varieties. Full article

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

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19 pages, 2243 KB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological and Physiological Responses of Pak Choi (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) Genotypes Under Controlled Drought Stress

by Jeong-Eun Sim, Mewuleddeg Zebro, Ju-Yeon Ahn, Jae-Kyung Kim, Han-Kyeol Park, Ah-Young Shin, Yu-Jin Kang, Ki-Young Choi, Si-Hong Kim and Ho-Min Kang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1477; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121477 - 7 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the growth performance and physiological responses of 24 Korean landrace accessions of pak choi (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) under polyethylene glycol (PEG)-induced drought stress to identify indicators for selecting drought-resistance genotypes. Electrolyte leakage (EL) and chlorophyll fluorescence ( [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the growth performance and physiological responses of 24 Korean landrace accessions of pak choi (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis) under polyethylene glycol (PEG)-induced drought stress to identify indicators for selecting drought-resistance genotypes. Electrolyte leakage (EL) and chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm) analyses showed that resistance accessions (IT262109(11), IT279432(12), IT293143(20)) had minimal increases in EL and maintained high Fv/Fm values under stress, indicating superior membrane stability and photosystem II activity. In contrast, sensitive accessions exhibited a sharp rise in EL and a decline in Fv/Fm to approximately 0.3 under 25% PEG treatment, reflecting severe physiological damage. Principal component analysis (PCA) biplot based on integrated growth and photosynthetic parameters differentiated resistance and sensitive groups, with PC1 representing photosynthetic efficiency versus membrane injury. Growth trait responses interaction analysis using GGE biplot of six representative accessions (three resistance, three sensitive) demonstrated that resistance genotypes had smaller positional shifts across treatments, indicating greater growth stability, while sensitive genotypes showed pronounced variability and environment-specific responses. This study provides a framework integrating growth and physiological indicators for identifying drought-resistance pak choi accessions, offering valuable implications for breeding programs aimed at climate-resilient cultivar development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Adaptation of Horticultural Crops to Climate Change Challenges)

14 pages, 2401 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Factors Affecting Cucumber Blossom-End Enlargement Occurrence During Commercial Distribution

by Yuki Tashiro, Kohei Mochizuki, Erika Uji, Rina Ito, Tran Mi Quyen, Nur Akbar Arofatullah, Agung Dian Kharisma, Sayuri Tanabata, Kenji Yamane and Tatsuo Sato

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1476; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121476 - 6 Dec 2025

Abstract

Blossom-end enlargement (BEE) is a physiological disorder in cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.) that affects postharvest quality and results in commercial loss due to reduced product value. Pre-cooling using modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been encouraged as a preventive method of BEE; however, [...] Read more.

Blossom-end enlargement (BEE) is a physiological disorder in cucumbers (Cucumis sativus L.) that affects postharvest quality and results in commercial loss due to reduced product value. Pre-cooling using modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been encouraged as a preventive method of BEE; however, BEE can still be observed under actual distribution conditions. This study reexamined the process from harvesting in midsummer to arriving at the market (550 km) and storage, while considering the impact of packaging materials, packaging methods, and human factors on BEE occurrence. More than 18 h were required from harvest to delivery at the pre-cooling warehouse at the common shipping site; however, despite using a refrigerated truck, the temperature inside the packaging increased again during transportation. The temperature then dropped during 24 h of pre-cooling; however, it did not reach 10 °C, the appropriate storage temperature for cucumbers. MAP suppressed the occurrence of BEE compared to conventional film packaging; however, the BEE index varied greatly between individuals who performed the packaging. We determined that tying both ends of the packaging film increases the degree of airtightness as individual differences decrease and is more effective at suppressing BEE. Porous mineral-containing film (PM) packaging, which generates a modified atmosphere (MA), significantly suppressed BEE compared to conventional perforated film (C). In 2019 transport trials, the BEE index at 6 DAH for C film was 77.3, while for PM film it was only 12.0. Furthermore, we found that the effectiveness of PM film was significantly affected by human-related operational factors. The novel packaging method of tying both ends of the film (PM-T) provided the most consistent BEE suppression and lowest BEE index regardless of the packaging worker, demonstrating its superior potential in standardizing airtightness and minimizing human-related operational variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)

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16 pages, 2465 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Photosynthetic Rate Prediction Model for Cucumber Based on a Machine Learning Algorithm and Multi-Factor Environmental Analysis

by Yanxiu Miao, Liyuan Liu, Miaoyu Wang, Zhihao Zeng, Jun Zhang, Yongsan Cheng and Bin Li

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1475; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121475 - 6 Dec 2025

Abstract

Plant photosynthetic rate prediction models have the potential to enhance production efficiency and advance intelligent control in protected agriculture. However, due to the complexity of and variability in multiple environmental factors, conventional prediction models often fail to accurately predict photosynthetic rates. We hypothesize [...] Read more.

Plant photosynthetic rate prediction models have the potential to enhance production efficiency and advance intelligent control in protected agriculture. However, due to the complexity of and variability in multiple environmental factors, conventional prediction models often fail to accurately predict photosynthetic rates. We hypothesize that the prediction accuracy of a photosynthetic rate model for cucumber could be significantly improved through the application of machine learning algorithms, including support vector regression (SVR), backpropagation (BP), neural network, random forest (RF), and radial basis function (RBF) neural network. To test this hypothesis, we designed experimental treatments with varying combinations of temperature, light intensity, and CO₂ concentration and measured the photosynthetic rate (Pn) during the peak fruiting period to construct a comprehensive dataset; we then determined optimal hyperparameters for each algorithm and established and verified four prediction models, thereby identifying the optimal model. The results showed that the maximum Pn value occurred at 28 °C, 1500 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹, and 1200 µmol mol⁻¹. Among all models, the SVR model exhibited superior performance on the test set, with an R² of 0.9941 and an RMSE of 0.7802 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹. This was further demonstrated by its performance on the validation set, where it achieved the highest R² (0.96443) and the lowest errors. In conclusion, the SVR model accurately predicted the cucumber photosynthetic rate, providing a solid theoretical foundation for intelligent environmental control in protected cucumber production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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19 pages, 1012 KB

Open AccessArticle

Physiological Stress, Yield, and N and P Use Efficiency in an Intensive Tomato–Tilapia Aquaponic System

by Jesús Josafat De león-Ramírez, Juan Fernando García-Trejo, Carlos Francisco Sosa-Ferreyra, Leticia Félix-Cuencas and Samuel López-Tejeida

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121474 - 6 Dec 2025

Abstract

Accelerated population growth has driven the search for efficient food production systems such as aquaponics, which integrates aquaculture and hydroponics in a closed-loop configuration. In conventional aquaculture and hydroponic systems, intensification often causes physiological stress, nutrient imbalances, and resource inefficiencies. This study tested [...] Read more.

Accelerated population growth has driven the search for efficient food production systems such as aquaponics, which integrates aquaculture and hydroponics in a closed-loop configuration. In conventional aquaculture and hydroponic systems, intensification often causes physiological stress, nutrient imbalances, and resource inefficiencies. This study tested the hypothesis that, in an intensive aquaponic configuration, the synergy between aquaculture and hydroponic modules helps mitigate stress, improve nutrient and water use efficiency, and sustain overall performance compared to stand-alone hydroponic and aquaculture systems. The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions over three consecutive 180-day cycles, comparing an intensive aquaponic system with aquaculture and hydroponic modules. Tilapia in aquaponics showed 30% lower cortisol and 22% lower glucose (p < 0.05) than in aquaculture, indicating reduced stress. Tomatoes showed 25% higher catalase activity and 18% higher phenolic content (p < 0.05), reflecting moderate oxidative stress. Tilapia productivity reached 38.4 kg m⁻³ (+11.7%), tomato yield was 22.7% lower than in hydroponic conditions, and N–P use efficiencies were 23.3% and 20.7% (p < 0.05). Water use efficiency improved by 17.4%. Despite reduced plant growth, aquaponics decreased fish stress and enhanced nutrient recovery, supporting its potential as a sustainable, resource-efficient alternative for integrated food production under intensive conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Plant Quality and Sustainability in Aquaponics Systems)

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16 pages, 3184 KB

Open AccessArticle

Substrate and Soil Temperatures in Passive Mediterranean Greenhouse Crops

by Santiago Bonachela, María Cruz Sánchez-Guerrero, Santiago Vélez-Piedrahita, Francisco Gabriel Sánchez-Martín and Joaquín Hernández

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1473; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121473 - 5 Dec 2025

Abstract

Substrate and soil temperatures were analyzed throughout 14 representative fruit–vegetable crop cycles and treatments grown in low-cost Mediterranean greenhouses, mostly around the cold winter period. The mean daily temperatures of most common substrates (perlite and coconut-coir bags) were lower (between 0.9 and 3.0 [...] Read more.

Substrate and soil temperatures were analyzed throughout 14 representative fruit–vegetable crop cycles and treatments grown in low-cost Mediterranean greenhouses, mostly around the cold winter period. The mean daily temperatures of most common substrates (perlite and coconut-coir bags) were lower (between 0.9 and 3.0 °C) and more variable than root zone temperatures of the most common soil (enarenado soil) throughout all crop cycles and treatments studied, particularly during the cold period. The mean daily temperature of the perlite and coconut-coir bags was low (around 15 °C) during most of the cold periods, and the minimum daily temperature was very low (around 12 °C) during some crop periods. These low temperatures are generally considered suboptimal for greenhouse production. The seasonal dynamics of the minimum and mean daily temperature of the substrate bags were similar to those observed for the mean daily greenhouse air temperature. The minimum daily temperature of substrate bags was close to the mean daily greenhouse air temperature for all the studied crop cycles. A simple and practical relationship was found for predicting mean daily temperatures of substrate bags from mean daily greenhouse air temperatures (MAE = 0.87 °C; RMSE = 1.15 °C). A substantial spatial and temporal variation in the hourly temperature was found in the cross-section of the coconut-coir bag, but not for the mean daily temperature. No differences were found for the mean daily temperature along the longitudinal section of the bag. In general, representative measurements of the coconut-coir bag can be taken by installing the sensors horizontally and especially vertically around the middle part of the bag. Full article

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20 pages, 7210 KB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Changes in Physiological Responses and Yield of Citrus latifolia Under High-Density Planting and Different Soil Moisture Tensions

by Benigno Rivera-Hernández, René Garruña, José Luis Andrade, Wilmer Tezara, Roberth Us Santamaría, Rubén H. Andueza-Noh, Vianey González-Jiménez and Eugenio Carrillo-Ávila

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1472; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121472 - 5 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses and yield of Tahiti lime (Citrus latifolia) cultivated at high density under three soil moisture tension (SMT) levels: low (L = −0.010 MPa), medium (M = −0.035 MPa), and high (H = −0.085 [...] Read more.

This study aimed to evaluate the physiological responses and yield of Tahiti lime (Citrus latifolia) cultivated at high density under three soil moisture tension (SMT) levels: low (L = −0.010 MPa), medium (M = −0.035 MPa), and high (H = −0.085 MPa). Measurements included water status, sap flow, photochemical activity, gas exchange, and fruit yield during the dry and early rainy seasons. The leaf water potential (Ψ_L) and relative water content (RWC) were higher in the L and M treatments than in H, with an overall improvement at the onset of the rainy season. From the dry to the rainy season, sap flow decreased by 25.3, 16.0, and 1.9 L day⁻¹ in L, M, and H plants, respectively. Plants with higher soil water availability (L and M) maintained better water status during the dry season, which favored photochemistry and gas exchange, reflected in a greater shoot growth and fruit yield (54.5 and 53.4 kg plant⁻¹, respectively). In contrast, H SMT significantly reduced water relations and photosynthetic activity, leading to yield loss. Short-term rainfall (six days) was insufficient to restore physiological performance. Maintaining SMT around −0.035 MPa during the dry season optimizes yield while reducing water use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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16 pages, 3443 KB

Open AccessArticle

Correction of Leaf Area Overlap of Grafted Cucumber Plug Tray Seedlings Using Multispectral Imaging System

by Hyo Jung Jang, Ju Young Hong, Jun Gu Lee, Yurina Kwack, Seung Wook Song, Ji Woo Lee, Hye Jin Lee and Yang Gyu Ku

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1471; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121471 - 5 Dec 2025

Abstract

Leaf area estimation using multispectral imaging in grafted cucumber seedlings is often underestimated due to leaf overlap at later growth stages. This study investigates the use of multispectral imaging technology to estimate leaf area in grafted cucumber seedlings and proposes a method to [...] Read more.

Leaf area estimation using multispectral imaging in grafted cucumber seedlings is often underestimated due to leaf overlap at later growth stages. This study investigates the use of multispectral imaging technology to estimate leaf area in grafted cucumber seedlings and proposes a method to improve estimation accuracy by introducing “days after grafting” (DAG) as a correction variable. For the experiments, the scion varieties ‘Goodmorning Backdadagi’, ‘NakwonSeongCheongJang’, and ‘Sinsedae’ were grafted onto the same rootstock ‘Heukjong’ (Cucurbita ficifolia), and images were acquired at 7, 14, and 21 days after grafting. The results show that including DAG as a correction variable significantly enhances the accuracy of image-based leaf area estimation, particularly in plug tray units, where R² increased from 0.89 to 0.96 for ‘Goodmorning Backdadagi’, by effectively reducing errors caused by leaf overlap. Across all three varieties and both seasons (spring and summer), models incorporating DAG consistently showed higher accuracy in leaf area estimation than models without DAG. These results suggest that the method’s broad applicability is validated through comparisons across different seasons and varieties. Overall, this study provides a practical and accurate method for correcting leaf area estimation, with strong potential for application, particularly in seedling production and cultivation management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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18 pages, 1213 KB

Open AccessArticle

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

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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18 pages, 5308 KB

Open AccessArticle

Application of High-Quality Potting Substrates Improved the Growth Vigor of Potted Hellebore (Helleborus × hybridus)

by Yanxin Peng, Jiaxin Gong, Xiaoyun Cao, Xiaohua Shi and Lingjuan Du

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121469 - 5 Dec 2025

Abstract

Substrate composition plays a vital role in the soilless cultivation of Helleborus; high-quality substrates can create optimal growth conditions and enhance plant quality. However, knowledge regarding suitable substrates for Helleborus remains limited. The aim of the study was to test the effects [...] Read more.

Substrate composition plays a vital role in the soilless cultivation of Helleborus; high-quality substrates can create optimal growth conditions and enhance plant quality. However, knowledge regarding suitable substrates for Helleborus remains limited. The aim of the study was to test the effects of different substrates on growth of potted Helleborus × hybridus seedlings. In total, 12 treatments were formulated by mixing organic components (moss peat, cocopeat, domestic peat) with inorganic particles (perlite, kanuma soil, vermiculite) at a 1:1 ratio, using moss peat moss as the control. The results indicated that substrates of moss peat + vermiculite (1:1) and cocopeat + vermiculite (1:1) significantly promoted plant height, shoot number, leaf number, and root development. The treatment with domestic peat + perlite + kanuma soil + vermiculite (3:1:1:1) yielded the highest soluble protein content, whereas the CK group showed the highest soluble sugar content. A comprehensive evaluation by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified moss peat + vermiculite (1:1) as the optimal substrate, followed by coir + vermiculite (1:1). Considering economic costs and environmental protection factors, the cocopeat + vermiculite (1:1) mixture demonstrated superior potential. Collectively, our study clarifies the effects of different substrate compositions and provides new insights for achieving cleaner and more efficient soilless cultivation of Helleborus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Cultivation and Breeding Propagation of Ornamental and Aromatic Plants and Their Use in Landscaping Design)

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16 pages, 2011 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Pre-Harvest Hexanal and Post-Harvest 1-Methylcyclopropene Treatments on Bitter Pit Incidence and Fruit Quality in ‘Arisoo’ Apples

by Jun-Yong Lee, Jung-Geun Kwon, Kyoungook Kim, Jingi Yoo, Seonae Kim, Nay Myo Win and In-Kyu Kang

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1468; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121468 - 4 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of pre-harvest hexanal and post-harvest 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatments on bitter pit incidence and fruit quality in ‘Arisoo’ apples during cold storage. Hexanal (0.02%) was sprayed on trees twice, 18 and 8 days before harvest, and 1-MCP (1 μL·L [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the effects of pre-harvest hexanal and post-harvest 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) treatments on bitter pit incidence and fruit quality in ‘Arisoo’ apples during cold storage. Hexanal (0.02%) was sprayed on trees twice, 18 and 8 days before harvest, and 1-MCP (1 μL·L⁻¹) was applied by fumigation immediately after harvest. Treated apples were subsequently stored at 0.5 ± 1 °C for 5 months. At harvest, the control group showed an incidence rate of 20.6% and a severity score of 0.34, while the hexanal-treated group had a reduced incidence of 13.2% and a severity score of 0.18. Fruit quality parameters did not differ significantly between the control and hexanal-treated groups at harvest. During cold storage, spot incidence significantly increased in the control after 2 months and reached 60.5% after 5 months. In contrast, bitter pit incidence in the hexanal and 1-MCP-treated groups was lower after 5 months, at 46.6% and 47.1%, respectively. No significant difference in spot severity was observed between the hexanal and 1-MCP treatments. Polyphenol oxidase activity increased in all treatments during storage, but both hexanal and 1-MCP significantly inhibited this increase compared to the control. Total sugar and uronic acid contents decreased across all treatments during storage. However, the hexanal and 1-MCP treatments mitigated this reduction relative to the control. At the end of storage, apples treated with 1-MCP had lower internal ethylene concentrations and higher flesh firmness compared to both the control and hexanal-treated apples. In conclusion, pre-harvest hexanal application reduced the bitter pit incidence at harvest and during storage, while post-harvest 1-MCP provided a similar reduction effect and better preserved fruit quality during cold storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)

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18 pages, 5119 KB

Open AccessArticle

Silica Nanoparticles Improve Drought Tolerance in Ginger by Modulating the AsA-GSH Pathway, the Glyoxalase System and Photosynthetic Metabolism

by Chong Sun, Shengyou Fang, Peihua Yang, Htet Wai Wai Kyaw, Xia Liu, Yiqing Liu, Weihua Han, Junliang Yin, Manli Qin and Yongxing Zhu

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121467 - 4 Dec 2025

Abstract

Drought stress (DS) is a primary environmental factor that limits the production of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) have been shown to enhance drought resistance in ginger by modulating water relations. However, the specific impact of SiNPs on the antioxidant [...] Read more.

Drought stress (DS) is a primary environmental factor that limits the production of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe). Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) have been shown to enhance drought resistance in ginger by modulating water relations. However, the specific impact of SiNPs on the antioxidant and glyoxalase system responses to DS remains unclear. To investigate the impact of SiNP100 on photosynthetic and antioxidant metabolism in ginger under DS, four treatments were designed in this study: control (CK), drought stress (DS), silica nanoparticles (SiNP100) application, and the combined treatment of DS and SiNP100 (DS + SiNP100). The results showed that SiNP100 alleviated DS-induced damage by improving photosynthetic parameters, chlorophyll content, and the efficiency of photosystems I and II. DS significantly increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), and methylglyoxal (MG), thereby inducing oxidative stress. SiNP100 mitigated this effect by reducing ROS accumulation and enhancing the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT). Furthermore, SiNP100 boosted the ascorbate–glutathione (AsA-GSH) cycle by increasing the activities of key enzymes (APX, DHAR, MDHAR, and GR) and upregulating the expression of ZoDHAR2, ZoAPX1, and ZoGR2. This leads to higher ascorbate and glutathione levels in ginger. SiNP100 also bolstered the glyoxalase system, as evidenced by increased activities of glyoxalase I (Gly I) and glyoxalase II (Gly II), alongside the upregulation of ZoGLY1 expression, thereby promoting methylglyoxal (MG) detoxification. In conclusion, SiNP100 enhances drought tolerance in ginger by reinforcing the antioxidant defense system, AsA-GSH cycle, and methylglyoxal detoxification system, thereby protecting photosynthetic metabolism and promoting growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses to Abiotic Stresses in Horticultural Crops—2nd Edition)

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34 pages, 1255 KB

Open AccessReview

Harnessing the Synergy Between Edible Coatings and Non-Thermal Technologies for Improved Food Quality and Sustainable Preservation

by Xiaoyu Tian, Hui Dong, Qin Fang, Xiaorui Zhang, Chunxia Dai and Joshua Harrington Aheto

Horticulturae 2025, 11(12), 1466; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11121466 - 4 Dec 2025

Abstract

This review explores the synergistic integration of edible coatings and non-thermal preservation technologies as a multifaceted approach to maintaining food quality, safety, and sustainability. Edible coatings—composed of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, or composite biopolymers—serve as biodegradable barriers that control moisture, gas, and solute transfer [...] Read more.

This review explores the synergistic integration of edible coatings and non-thermal preservation technologies as a multifaceted approach to maintaining food quality, safety, and sustainability. Edible coatings—composed of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, or composite biopolymers—serve as biodegradable barriers that control moisture, gas, and solute transfer while acting as carriers for bioactive compounds such as antimicrobials and antioxidants. Meanwhile, non-thermal techniques, including high-pressure processing, cold plasma, ultrasound, photodynamic inactivation, modified atmosphere packaging, and irradiation, offer microbial inactivation and enzymatic control without compromising nutritional and sensory attributes. When combined, these technologies exhibit complementary effects: coatings enhance the stability of bioactives and protect surface quality, while non-thermal treatments boost antimicrobial efficacy and promote active compound penetration. The review highlights their comparative advantages over individual treatments—improved microbial inhibition, nutrient retention, and sensory quality. It further discusses the possible mechanisms through which edible coatings and selected hurdles induced microbial decontamination. Finally, the study identified major drawbacks and provided strategic recommendations to overcome these limitations, including optimizing coating formulations for specific food matrices, tailoring process parameters to minimize adverse physicochemical changes, and conducting pilot-scale validations to bridge the gap between laboratory success and industrial application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Artificial Intelligence in the Processing of Horticultural Crops)

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