Horticulturae

20 pages, 6883 KB

Open AccessArticle

Diallyl Trisulfide Controls Postharvest Gray Mold and Maintains Tomato Fruit Quality via Direct Antifungal Activity and Host Defense Activation

by Jie Li, Xiuli Zhang, Lin Liu, Guoqin Huang, Haijin Cai, Jieru Chen, Fangjie Xiong, Xinguo Li, Yongfei Jian and Shun Feng

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 703; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060703 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2026

Abstract

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a volatile natural sulfur-containing compound derived from garlic, possesses antifungal and preservative potential. However, its biocontrol efficacy against postharvest gray mold of tomato and the molecular mechanisms underlying fruit quality maintenance remain unclear. In this study, we systematically investigated the [...] Read more.

Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a volatile natural sulfur-containing compound derived from garlic, possesses antifungal and preservative potential. However, its biocontrol efficacy against postharvest gray mold of tomato and the molecular mechanisms underlying fruit quality maintenance remain unclear. In this study, we systematically investigated the inhibitory effect of DATS fumigation on postharvest gray mold, its role in fruit quality maintenance, and the associated molecular mechanisms through in vitro antifungal assays, physiological and biochemical measurements, transcriptome sequencing, and correlation analysis. In vitro experiments showed that DATS at 50 μL L⁻¹ completely inhibited spore germination and germ tube elongation of Botrytis cinerea in a concentration-dependent manner, and disrupted spore membrane integrity (FDA-positive spores dropped from 73.4% to 2.9% at 50 μL L⁻¹). In vivo experiments demonstrated that Bc + DATS treatment completely inhibited lesion development compared to the control Bc, enhanced the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase (e.g., CAT activity 2.20-fold higher than Bc on day 3), decreased malondialdehyde accumulation (0.65-fold of Bc on day 4), and delayed the declines in total soluble solids, titratable acidity, soluble sugars and vitamin C content (VC content 4.14-fold higher than Bc on day 4). Transcriptomic analysis revealed that DATS treatment up-regulated genes involved in plant hormone signal transduction, ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, and phenylalanine metabolism, while down-regulating core MAPK kinases and histidine decarboxylase. Correlation analysis demonstrated significant associations between the expression of these pathway genes and antioxidant enzyme activities, vitamin C content, and lesion diameter. Collectively, DATS achieves effective control of postharvest gray mold and maintenance of fruit quality in tomato through direct antifungal activity, synergistic activation of hormone/MAPK signaling, reprogramming of phenylalanine metabolism, and modulation of membrane lipid homeostasis. This study provides a theoretical and practical basis for developing DATS as a green postharvest preservative to reduce food loss and ensure food safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Treatments for Preserving Quality and Reducing Food Loss in Horticultural Products)

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20 pages, 1492 KB

Open AccessArticle

Desalinated Seaweed-Based Biochar-Amended Vermicompost as a Coco Peat Substitute for Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Seedling Production and Growth

by Elia N. M. Ruben, Nils Haneklaus, Simeon S. Hamukoshi, Bethold Handura and Hupenyu A. Mupambwa

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 702; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060702 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2026

Abstract

Soilless horticultural media offer a solution to limited arable land but are often nutrient-inert, requiring efficient nutrient management strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of seaweed biochar-amended vermicompost (VC) as a nutrient-supplying growing medium for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedling [...] Read more.

Soilless horticultural media offer a solution to limited arable land but are often nutrient-inert, requiring efficient nutrient management strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of seaweed biochar-amended vermicompost (VC) as a nutrient-supplying growing medium for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedling establishment and vegetative growth. Coco peat was progressively replaced with VC (0–100%, w/w) under fertilized and unfertilized conditions during seedling development, and selected treatments were further evaluated during vegetative growth. Growth parameters, including emergence, plant height, leaf area, stem diameter, biomass, and chlorophyll content, were measured. Treatments significantly affected (p < 0.05) all parameters. The highest VC level (100%) reduced seedling emergence by 10.42% compared to the control but significantly improved seedling height (13.69 cm) and leaf area (49.45 cm² plant⁻¹) under fertilized conditions. During vegetative growth, the control (0% VC) produced the highest biomass (9.55 g) and plant height (67.43 cm), while higher VC rates (75–100%) enhanced chlorophyll content and maintained acceptable plant growth. Overall, VC showed potential as a sustainable growing medium component for tomato production, although plant responses varied according to growth stage and incorporation rate. Reduced emergence at higher VC levels indicates that further research is needed to optimize substrate management strategies for seedling establishment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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16 pages, 537 KB

Open AccessReview

The Biosynthesis of Melatonin in Plants and the Mechanism of Its Influence on the Quality of Harvested Fruits

by Wanxi Wang, Jiaying Liu, Dejian Zhang, Dehua Jia and Qingping Yi

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 701; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060701 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2026

Abstract

Melatonin is a small-molecule indoleamine compound that is essential to life. It is widely present in plants and plays an extremely important role in plant growth and fruit quality. This article summarizes the role of melatonin synthesis in plants, its distribution in some [...] Read more.

Melatonin is a small-molecule indoleamine compound that is essential to life. It is widely present in plants and plays an extremely important role in plant growth and fruit quality. This article summarizes the role of melatonin synthesis in plants, its distribution in some fruits, and its impact on post-harvest fruit quality. The mechanisms by which melatonin regulates post-harvest fruit quality are discussed in depth from the perspectives of respiratory metabolism, ethylene metabolism, sugar metabolism, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and antioxidant systems. Finally, we analyze the existing problems in the current research field of melatonin in post-harvest fruit preservation and look toward the application prospects of melatonin synthesis, metabolism, and the mechanisms for regulating fruit quality. This article provides a reference for further exploring the role of melatonin and increasing the endogenous content of melatonin in fruits, as well as post-harvest preservation techniques, with the aim of promoting the application of melatonin in post-harvest preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms and Physiological Changes in Fruit Development and Quality Regulation)

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27 pages, 4010 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Different Light Spectra on the Morphological Characteristics and Biochemical and Elemental Composition of Mentha longifolia L. and Melissa officinalis L. Grown in Closed Agroecosystems

by Inna V. Knyazeva, Olga Panfilova, Oksana Vershinina, Ibrahim Kahramanoğlu, Alexander A. Smirnov and Andrey Titenkov

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060700 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2026

Abstract

A comprehensive assessment of the effect of different light spectra on the growth, development, and nutritional composition of Mentha longifolia L. cv. “Vesenniy Aromat” (mint) and Melissa officinalis L. cv. “Limonnyy Aromat” (lemon balm) grown in hydroponic conditions in closed artificial agroecosystems was [...] Read more.

A comprehensive assessment of the effect of different light spectra on the growth, development, and nutritional composition of Mentha longifolia L. cv. “Vesenniy Aromat” (mint) and Melissa officinalis L. cv. “Limonnyy Aromat” (lemon balm) grown in hydroponic conditions in closed artificial agroecosystems was conducted. The growing period was 75 days for mint and 87 days for lemon balm. The photon flux density (PFD) in the range of 400–800 nm was ~140 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹, and the light period was 16 h. Five lighting options and four spectral color ratios were used in the treatments—blue (B), green (G), red (R), and far red (FR), and 3:66:27:4 (HPL (control)); 16:42:39:3 (White LED); 96:3:1:0 (Blue LED); 1:1:98:0 (Red LED) and 25:3:72:0 (Red + Blue LEDs)—in a growth chamber for cultivation with controlled environmental conditions. Under White LED, M. longifolia L. plants were compact, with a large number of leaves and high plant biomass. The effect of Red + Blue LEDs had a general trend for M. longifolia L. and M. officinalis L. in terms of improving plant morphology (leaf area, number of leaves, and plant biomass), elemental composition (contents of potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus) and reducing the accumulation of nitrates in the plants. Blue spectrum lighting significantly affected the content of leaf pigments, quercetin, rosmarinic acid, and essential oils of mint and lemon balm. Red spectrum lighting significantly reduced the accumulation of nitrates in the vegetative mass of plants. Precise regulation of metabolic processes, taking into account the spectral quality of light, can contribute to improving the economic efficiency of the growth, development, and productive potential of mint and lemon balm grown under controlled conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Controlled Environment Horticulture: Indoor Farming and Novel Cultivation Technologies: 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 2645 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Trait Comprehensive Evaluation and Elite Germplasm Screening of 43 Celery Germplasm Resources

by Xiaohan Lu, Junting Liu, Fengyun Lei and Yangxia Zheng

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060699 (registering DOI) - 6 Jun 2026

Abstract

In this study, 43 celery germplasm resources were comprehensively evaluated based on phenotypic and quality-related traits. The results revealed substantial variation among the measured traits, with physiological traits exhibiting greater variability than morphological traits. Correlation analysis showed that growth-related traits were generally significantly [...] Read more.

In this study, 43 celery germplasm resources were comprehensively evaluated based on phenotypic and quality-related traits. The results revealed substantial variation among the measured traits, with physiological traits exhibiting greater variability than morphological traits. Correlation analysis showed that growth-related traits were generally significantly positively correlated. Principal component analysis (PCA) effectively extracted the major sources of variation, with the first two principal components explaining 77.2% and 80.7% of the total variation in growth-related and physiological traits, respectively. A comprehensive evaluation model was subsequently established using the membership function method, and the D values ranged from 0.107 to 0.763. Comprehensive ranking identified accessions 1, 10, 12, and 17 as superior germplasm resources that may serve as valuable materials for celery breeding. Overall, the multi-trait comprehensive evaluation approach employed in this study effectively identified elite germplasm resources and provides important theoretical support for celery breeding and the efficient utilization of germplasm resources. Full article

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

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19 pages, 8310 KB

Open AccessArticle

Transcriptomic Profiling and Identification of Candidate Genes Governing Fruit Spine in Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

by Chengqin Shen, Zhiyuan Liu, Hongbing She, Zhaosheng Xu, Helong Zhang and Wei Qian

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 698; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060698 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2026

Abstract

Fruit spine formation in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) affects seed processing and mechanized sowing, yet its molecular basis underlying this trait remains unclear. Therefore, we performed comparative transcriptome analysis of two contrasting genotypes, Sp35 (spiny) and Sp34 (spineless), at early morphogenesis and [...] Read more.

Fruit spine formation in spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) affects seed processing and mechanized sowing, yet its molecular basis underlying this trait remains unclear. Therefore, we performed comparative transcriptome analysis of two contrasting genotypes, Sp35 (spiny) and Sp34 (spineless), at early morphogenesis and late developmental stages. RNA-seq analysis identified 3002 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at the early developmental stage and 2737 DEGs at the later stage. Intersection analysis revealed that 1080 DEGs were differentially expressed in both stages, suggesting that these shared genes may play particularly important roles. Functional enrichment analysis of these 1080 shared DEGs revealed involvement in cell wall biogenesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and carbohydrate metabolism, highlighting roles for secondary cell wall formation and lignification in spine development. To identify the key regulatory gene, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted and found a significantly correlated gene module. In this co-expression gene module, a MYB transcription factor SOV2g002850 occupies a central position. Additionally, several MADS-box genes and WRKY regulatory genes were also identified in the co-expression network. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive transcriptomic framework for spinach spine development and identifies candidate genes for future functional validation and breeding. Full article

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

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41 pages, 15667 KB

Open AccessArticle

YOLOv8n-Seg-Based Grape Berry Instance Segmentation and Thinning Decision-Making for Vineyard Robots

by Hengyi Zheng, Yuhan Ma, Tengxu Zhang, Shuo Han and Mengbo Qian

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 697; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060697 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2026

Abstract

Berry thinning is a fundamental operation in modern vineyard management, and future robotic thinning systems have the potential to reduce labor intensity and improve operational consistency. However, automated berry thinning under field conditions is still constrained by insufficient berry-level segmentation accuracy, difficulty in [...] Read more.

Berry thinning is a fundamental operation in modern vineyard management, and future robotic thinning systems have the potential to reduce labor intensity and improve operational consistency. However, automated berry thinning under field conditions is still constrained by insufficient berry-level segmentation accuracy, difficulty in recognizing occluded berries, and high missed-detection rates for small berries. These limitations mainly arise from dense berry arrangements, severe mutual occlusion, and the subtle visual features of small targets. To address these challenges, this study developed a lightweight grape berry instance segmentation and thinning decision-support method based on YOLOv8n-seg. A two-stage knowledge distillation strategy, using Mask R-CNN and YOLOv8l-seg as teacher models, was combined with 30% backbone pruning to improve the recognition of occluded and small berries while maintaining model efficiency. Subsequently, the DBSCAN clustering algorithm was used to analyze berry centroid coordinates and equivalent diameters extracted from instance segmentation masks, thereby generating preliminary thinning-target recommendations based on local berry density and berry size. The model was trained and evaluated on a self-constructed dataset containing 330 valid grape bunch images collected in 2025 from Yongming Vineyard, Lin’an District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. The results showed that the optimized YOLOv8n-seg model achieved a box

m A P 50 - 95

of 0.8945 and a mask

m A P 50 - 95

of 0.7910, with an inference speed of 119.19

F P S

and 3.26 M parameters on an NVIDIA RTX 3060 Laptop GPU. Compared with the original YOLOv8n-seg model, the optimized model improved mask

m A P 50 - 95

by 1.20 percentage points, increased inference speed by 71.79

F P S

, and reduced the number of parameters by 2.38 M. These results indicate that the proposed method improves grape berry instance segmentation performance while achieving a favorable balance among segmentation accuracy, lightweight characteristics, and inference efficiency. The proposed framework provides an offline RGB-based visual perception and preliminary thinning decision-support method for future grape berry thinning robots. However, because the current dataset was collected from Shine Muscat grape bunches at the berry enlargement stage in a single vineyard using the same imaging setup, the results should be interpreted as preliminary evidence under the specific cultivar, growth stage, vineyard, and imaging conditions of this study. Further validation across different grape cultivars, growth stages, vineyards, production seasons, camera systems, embedded platforms, and real robotic thinning operations is still required. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

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14 pages, 2869 KB

Open AccessArticle

Moderate Root-Zone Cooling Improves Vegetative Growth and Reduces Open-Center Malformation in Standard Chrysanthemum ‘Baekgang’ During Summer

by Youngeun Han, Geonhak Lee, Nam Hyun Im, Bokyung Yang and Seong Kwang An

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060696 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2026

Abstract

High summer temperatures can reduce growth and flower quality in standard chrysanthemum, while whole-greenhouse cooling requires substantial energy input. This study evaluated whether localized root-zone cooling could improve growth and suppress open-center malformed capitula in standard chrysanthemum ‘Baekgang’ while considering energy use. Rooted [...] Read more.

High summer temperatures can reduce growth and flower quality in standard chrysanthemum, while whole-greenhouse cooling requires substantial energy input. This study evaluated whether localized root-zone cooling could improve growth and suppress open-center malformed capitula in standard chrysanthemum ‘Baekgang’ while considering energy use. Rooted cuttings were grown in a commercial hydroponic greenhouse during summer and subjected to a non-cooled control (NC) or root-zone cooling activation thresholds of 28 °C (HT), 25 °C (MT), or 22 °C (LT). Root-zone temperature, vegetative growth, gas exchange, flower quality, open-center incidence, and electricity consumption were measured. Mean root-zone temperatures were 27.8 °C in NC, 26.6 °C in HT, 24.4 °C in MT, and 23.3 °C in LT. Root-zone cooling improved vegetative growth, particularly stem diameter and shoot and root biomass, whereas leaf-level gas-exchange parameters were not consistently affected. Open-center incidence was highest in NC (67%) and was reduced to 33%, 11%, and 33% in HT, MT, and LT, respectively. Electricity consumption was 321, 783, and 1088 kWh bed⁻¹ in HT, MT, and LT, respectively. These results indicate that moderate root-zone cooling, particularly MT, provides a practical balance between flower quality and energy use for summer chrysanthemum production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regulation of Flowering and Development in Ornamental Plants)

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14 pages, 823 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Assessment of Cucumis sativus L. Growth Responses to Aqueous Extracts Derived from Vermicompost Produced from Vineyard, Winery and Sewage Sludge Residues

by Catarina Medeiros, Tiago Azevedo, Elisabete Nascimento-Gonçalves, Maria Teresa Carvalho, Ana Beatriz Teixeira, Bárbara Almeida, Paulo Nunes, Henda Lopes, Virgílio Falco, João Ricardo Sousa, Ana Maria Coimbra, Marta Roboredo, Paula Alexandra Oliveira, Ana Lúcia Pinto-Sintra and Maria Cristina Morais

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 695; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060695 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2026

Abstract

The valorization of agro-industrial residues and sewage sludge into value-added products through vermicomposting represents a promising strategy for nutrient recycling and waste reduction. This study evaluated the effects of aqueous extracts obtained from five vermicomposts (VC1-VC5) produced from different mixtures of vineyard and [...] Read more.

The valorization of agro-industrial residues and sewage sludge into value-added products through vermicomposting represents a promising strategy for nutrient recycling and waste reduction. This study evaluated the effects of aqueous extracts obtained from five vermicomposts (VC1-VC5) produced from different mixtures of vineyard and winery residues and sewage sludge on cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) seedlings grown under in vitro conditions. The aqueous extracts (10%, w/v) were characterized in terms of pH, electrical conductivity, and total polyphenolic content, and applied to cucumber seedlings cultivated for 30 days under sterile and controlled in vitro conditions using commercially available peat pellets (Jiffy-7^®). Seedling development was monitored throughout the experiment, and morphological and biochemical parameters were assessed at the end of the 30-day assay. All extracts supported seedling development, with no evidence of phytotoxicity. The application of VC2 and VC4 extracts resulted in significant increases in fresh and dry weight, while VC2 led to higher chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. Conversely, VC3 and VC5 extracts were associated with slight reductions in growth parameters and photosynthetic pigment content. Correlation analysis suggested positive associations between biomass accumulation and chlorophyll content, and negative association between total polyphenolic content and stem growth. Overall, the results indicate that aqueous vermicompost extracts were not phytotoxic under the tested conditions, although their effects appear to depend on extract composition, highlighting the importance of feedstock selection for sustainable horticultural applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agri-Food Waste Management for Sustainability in Horticultural Production)

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17 pages, 7588 KB

Open AccessArticle

Melatonin-Induced Leaf Growth in Lithocarpus litseifolius: A Synergistic Interplay Among Hormone Homeostasis, Photosynthetic Enhancement, and Transcriptional Regulation

by Huan Wang, Wenlong Zhang, Mingfeng Xu and Lingye Su

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 694; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060694 (registering DOI) - 5 Jun 2026

Abstract

Lithocarpus litseifolius is a medicinal tea plant recognized for its sweet flavor and anti-diabetic properties, but its limited leaf yield under cultivation restricts its economic sustainability. Melatonin (MLT) is a multifunctional plant growth regulator, but its roles in leaf growth under normal conditions [...] Read more.

Lithocarpus litseifolius is a medicinal tea plant recognized for its sweet flavor and anti-diabetic properties, but its limited leaf yield under cultivation restricts its economic sustainability. Melatonin (MLT) is a multifunctional plant growth regulator, but its roles in leaf growth under normal conditions remain not fully understood. Herein, we investigated the effects and mechanisms of foliar-applied MLT on L. litseifolius seedlings, including growth indices, phytohormone profiles, photosynthetic characteristics, and transcriptome alterations. The 100 μM MLT treatment significantly enhanced leaf dry weight by 33.8% and leaf dry matter content by 22.2% compared to the control group. MLT decreased both free and bound abscisic acid (ABA), while increasing gibberellins (GAs), 5-deoxystrigol, auxins (e.g., IAM), and cytokinins (e.g., cZ9G). Additionally, exogenous MLT improved photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and soluble sugars in leaves. RNA-seq revealed that MLT up-regulated DEGs involved in hormone biosynthesis and signaling (CYP707A, BAK1, D14, CCD1, and IAA6), photosynthesis (PsbC/B, PetH, PsaB, and ATPase β), and sugar metabolism (WAXY, glgC, and otsB). Our results demonstrate that MLT promotes leaf dry matter accumulation through coordinated phytohormone homeostasis, photosynthetic enhancement, and transcriptional regulation, offering a cost-effective strategy to improve leaf yield in L. litseifolius. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Regulators in Horticulture: Seed Germination, Propagation and Metabolic Enhancement of Medicinal Plants)

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23 pages, 1066 KB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Propolis Waste for Sustainable Agriculture: The Aqueous Extract Has a Unique Phytotoxic Profile

by Nuno Mendes, Sandra Barbosa, Cristina Almeida Aguiar and Ana Cunha

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 693; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060693 - 4 Jun 2026

Abstract

Propolis is a resinous bee product rich in bioactive compounds and widely recognized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, but its effects on plants remain poorly explored, which could prove particularly relevant for applications in sustainable agriculture, namely in weed control. This in [...] Read more.

Propolis is a resinous bee product rich in bioactive compounds and widely recognized for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, but its effects on plants remain poorly explored, which could prove particularly relevant for applications in sustainable agriculture, namely in weed control. This in vitro study evaluated the phytotoxicity of propolis extracts obtained from materials considered waste, aiming for their valorization as natural bioherbicides. Two hydroalcoholic extracts produced from raw propolis—mPN.EE₇₀ (from mixed leftover samples) and Cr18.EE₇₀ (from a sample rejected by the pharmaceutical industry)—and one aqueous extract (RE23.WE) obtained from the residues of a previous ethanolic extraction were analyzed. All extracts exhibited antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), with mPN.EE₇₀ showing the lowest EC50 and RE23.WE the highest. Significant differences were observed in total phenolic and flavonoid contents, with Cr18.EE₇₀ presenting the highest values and RE23.WE the lowest. In vitro germination and early growth assays revealed pronounced species-, extract- and dose-dependent effects. White mustard (Sinapis alba) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa) were particularly sensitive to RE23.WE, which severely inhibited root growth. Interestingly, the spontaneous weeds Plantago lanceolata and Dactylis glomerata were sensitive to all the extracts, P. lanceolata being the most sensitive of all species. This species was particularly affected in root growth by mPN.EE₇₀, and in epicotyl development by Cr18.EE₇₀. Dactylis glomerata was specifically root-responsive, where RE23.WE, like in P. lanceolata, was the only extract causing significant inhibitions in both root and leaf growth at all concentrations. Although experiments at larger scales are needed for validation before agricultural applications, overall these findings demonstrate the potential of unused propolis samples and extraction residues as a source of bioherbicides for a more sustainable and circular agriculture. In particular, the remarkable effectiveness of the aqueous extract RE23.WE against all tested species promises an effective, environmentally safer, less costly, and therefore more economically viable approach for a weed control strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Processed Horticultural Products)

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4 pages, 157 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Orchard Management Under Climate Change: 2nd Edition

by Sergio Ruffo Roberto, Simone Rodrigues da Silva and Sarita Leonel

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060692 - 4 Jun 2026

Abstract

Climate change continues to be one of the most significant challenges facing global horticultural production [...] Full article

14 pages, 352 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on the Harvest Date and Viticultural Bioclimatic Indices in Northern Chile

by Gastón Gutiérrez-Gamboa, Carolina Pañitrur-De la Fuente, Marisol Reyes, Antonio Ibacache-González and Nicolás Verdugo-Vásquez

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060691 - 4 Jun 2026

Abstract

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has been identified as a key factor influencing grapevine phenology and harvest timing in South America. Nevertheless, few long-term analyses have explored its varietal impacts in hyper-arid viticultural regions. The goal was to evaluate the effect of ENSO phases [...] Read more.

El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has been identified as a key factor influencing grapevine phenology and harvest timing in South America. Nevertheless, few long-term analyses have explored its varietal impacts in hyper-arid viticultural regions. The goal was to evaluate the effect of ENSO phases on harvest dates and bioclimatic indices in different grapevine varieties cultivated in Northern Chile. The results revealed that Muscat of Alexandria showed little variation in harvest timing across ENSO phases. In contrast, harvest time in Thompson Seedless was delayed under La Niña events, being strongly correlated with the Maximum Spring Temperature Summation (SON_max) Index. Moscatel Rosada and Flame Seedless showed non-statistical significance and high variability on harvest dates. El Niño phases were consistently warmer than La Niña events that showed markedly greater interannual variability on harvest dates and bioclimatic index values. The strength of correlations was improved when the bioclimatic indices were recalculated over adjusted seasonal windows, underscoring the need for phenology-based rather than calendar-based approaches. These results provide new evidence of the heterogeneous responses of table and Pisco grapevine varieties to ENSO events in the hyper-arid regions of Northern Chile, underscoring the varietal differences in sensitivity to early-season climatic anomalies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Viticulture and Oenology—Adaptation in a Changing Climate)

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26 pages, 2031 KB

Open AccessArticle

Light Quality Regulates Source–Sink Dynamics and Mini-Tuber Formation in Aeroponic Potato

by Zahra Mirzakhani, Rahim Barzegar, Sadegh Mousavi-Fard and Dimitrios Fanourakis

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 690; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060690 - 3 Jun 2026

Abstract

Light intensity and spectral composition regulate plant physiological processes and productivity, particularly under low-light greenhouse conditions. This study was designed to address two main objectives in aeroponically grown potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Agria). First, we evaluated the effects of supplemental light [...] Read more.

Light intensity and spectral composition regulate plant physiological processes and productivity, particularly under low-light greenhouse conditions. This study was designed to address two main objectives in aeroponically grown potato (Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Agria). First, we evaluated the effects of supplemental light quality, focusing on different red (R), blue (B), and white (W) combinations at a constant intensity of 100 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹. Second, we assessed the specific effects of far-red (FR) light on plant performance and biomass allocation patterns. Potato plants were grown under greenhouse conditions in a completely randomized design consisting of eight supplemental LED spectral treatments and a natural-light control. Supplemental lighting increased net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and biomass compared to the control, demonstrating that moderate increases in light intensity improved plant performance under low-light conditions. Among the spectral treatments, W light and balanced R–B combinations increased net photosynthetic rate by 93.7–198.7% and total biomass by 23.8–132.1% relative to the control, suggesting improved coordination of stomatal activity, electron transport, and chlorophyll biosynthesis under the experimental light environment. In contrast, FR inclusion reduced the net photosynthetic rate and mini-tuber biomass by 15.0–38.6% relative to the corresponding FR-free treatments, particularly under treatments with lower red proportions, suggesting that FR effects are more likely associated with phytochrome-mediated regulation of photosynthetic efficiency and assimilate partitioning under modified red to far-red spectral balance rather than classical shade-avoidance responses. Mini-tuber yield was strongly affected by light treatments. White light and balanced R:B spectra produced the highest tuber number and biomass, increasing mini-tuber number and biomass by 26.6–62.5% and 15.4–87.7%, respectively, compared with the control, whereas FR reduced yield. Although FR appeared to increase the relative allocation of biomass to tubers, overall photosynthetic performance and biomass accumulation remained lower, resulting in lower productivity. Overall, mini-tuber production appeared to be associated with source–sink relationships, where light intensity enhanced photosynthetic performance and biomass production, light quality optimized photosynthetic performance, and FR light appeared to modify biomass allocation patterns. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing spectral composition and FR management in aeroponic seed potato production under low-light greenhouse conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Crop Cultivation in Greenhouse Ecosystems: Environmental Regulation and Sustainable Production)

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15 pages, 2019 KB

Open AccessArticle

Low Susceptibility to Cuticle Cracking in Ultra-Thin-Skin Cherry Tomato Cultivars

by Ryota Sugo, Ryosuke Hosoi, Kazuo Ikeda and Tomoyuki Nabeshima

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 689; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060689 - 2 Jun 2026

Abstract

Cuticle cracking (CC) is a major physiological disorder in cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) that reduces fruit quality and marketability. We compared multiple cultivars grown across five cultivation seasons and conducted both cultivar-level and within-cultivar analyses to identify the fruit traits associated [...] Read more.

Cuticle cracking (CC) is a major physiological disorder in cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) that reduces fruit quality and marketability. We compared multiple cultivars grown across five cultivation seasons and conducted both cultivar-level and within-cultivar analyses to identify the fruit traits associated with CC occurrence. Mean comparisons revealed significant differences in CC incidence among cultivars, ranging from <10% in some ultrathin skin types to >80% in susceptible cultivars. Within each cultivar, CC severity was positively or negatively correlated with cuticle membrane (CM) deposition per unit area and fruit aspect ratio in some cases; however, these effects were generally weak. In contrast, the analysis of surface area highlighted that the incidence of CC increased with smaller fruit size in several cultivars and was influenced by seasonal factors. However, neither cultivar-level nor within-cultivar analysis explained the extremely low CC ratio in ultra-thin-skin cultivars such as ‘Amapuru’, ‘CF Petite Puyo’, and ‘Usuhada’. These results suggest that ultra-thin-skin cultivars may possess mechanisms conferring low CC susceptibility that are structurally distinct from those in typical-skin cultivars. Full article

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

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31 pages, 14320 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing Multi-View Morphological, Color–Textural and Multispectral Features for Interpretable Estimation of Lettuce Fresh Weight Using Machine Learning

by Xiaodong Zhang, Tiezhu Li, Chuandong Guo, Deshen Zhang and Yixue Zhang

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060688 - 2 Jun 2026

Abstract

Accurate and reliable prediction of lettuce fresh weight is essential for optimising protected cultivation management and improving the yield and quality. Multimodal data combined with machine learning models have been widely used for monitoring crop growth. However, existing approaches often fail to capture [...] Read more.

Accurate and reliable prediction of lettuce fresh weight is essential for optimising protected cultivation management and improving the yield and quality. Multimodal data combined with machine learning models have been widely used for monitoring crop growth. However, existing approaches often fail to capture dynamic physiological changes during crop growth, whereas conventional machine learning models are frequently limited by their black-box nature and thus cannot reveal the intrinsic relationships between features and targets. To address the above issues, this study developed a stationary, multi-sensor integrated data acquisition platform under controlled greenhouse conditions. By fusing multi-view morphological structure, color and texture, and multispectral features, the study constructed interpretable machine learning models for predicting the fresh weight of lettuce. Based on the data collected by the platform, 66 initial features covering morphology, color texture, and vegetation indices were extracted from the data. A two-stage feature-selection strategy combining Pearson correlation screening and variance inflation factor (VIF)-based multicollinearity elimination was used to select nine optimal input variables for the model. To achieve an accurate estimation of the fresh weight of lettuce, the system compared six models: Support Vector Regression (SVR), Random Forest Regression (RFR), Gradient Boosted Decision Tree Regression (GBDT), K-nearest neighbour regression (KNN), XGBoost, and Backpropagation Neural Network (BPNN). The results indicate that the SVR model based on multimodal data fusion performed best, with an R² of 0.93, an RMSE of 3.23 g, an RMSEn of 5.60%, and an MAE of 2.31 g, demonstrating a significantly higher prediction accuracy than the other models. Furthermore, the SHAP interpretation method was used to reveal the contributions of key features to fresh weight estimation and their interaction mechanisms. This study provides a feasible approach and technical guidance for non-destructive estimation of fresh weight in lettuce under controlled conditions, and offers a preliminary basis for the development of phenotypic monitoring models for protected cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Agricultural Equipment Monitoring Technology for Vegetable Production)

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3 pages, 3655 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Li et al. Development of SNP Markers and Core Collection Construction of Berberis L. Based on SLAF-Seq in Xinjiang, China. Horticulturae 2025, 11, 434

by Ruxue Li, Yan Song, Zilong Wang, Long Zhou, Xiyu Yang and Meiri Aheihati

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 687; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060687 - 2 Jun 2026

Abstract

Figure Correction and Addition of a Table [...] Full article

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22 pages, 22817 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification of BSK Gene Family and Their Heat Stress Responses in Non-Heading Chinese Cabbage

by Lijuan Yang, Jiahui Wang, Pan Yuan, Xiang Li, Xiaofeng Li and Bo Zhu

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 686; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060686 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2026

Abstract

Although brassinosteroids (BRs) are widely recognized as important regulators of plant growth and environmental adaptation, the biological roles of BR-signaling kinases (BSKs) in horticultural crops remain largely unclear. To investigate their potential involvement in thermotolerance, BSK-related genes in Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis were [...] Read more.

Although brassinosteroids (BRs) are widely recognized as important regulators of plant growth and environmental adaptation, the biological roles of BR-signaling kinases (BSKs) in horticultural crops remain largely unclear. To investigate their potential involvement in thermotolerance, BSK-related genes in Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis were systematically identified and characterized. Twenty BcBSK members were obtained, all harboring a conserved N-terminal serine/threonine kinase domain together with C-terminal tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) motifs. Evolutionary and syntenic analyses separated these genes into several clades and further identified 16 duplicated gene pairs predominantly subjected to purifying selection. Promoter analysis revealed abundant cis-acting elements associated with hormone signaling and stress responsiveness. In addition, protein interaction prediction suggested that BcBSK2, BcBSK5, BcBSK14, and BcBSK18 may function as central components within the BSK-mediated regulatory network. Interaction network analysis highlighted BcBSK2, BcBSK5, BcBSK14, and BcBSK18 as potential hub genes. Under heat treatment (38 °C), RNA-seq analysis revealed cultivar-specific expression patterns: BcBSK1 and BcBSK2 were strongly induced in the heat-sensitive cultivar “Aijiaohuang”, whereas only minor changes were detected in the heat-tolerant cultivar “SHI”. qRT-PCR analysis further confirmed these transcriptional patterns. Exogenous 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ 24-epibrassinolide (EBR) alleviated heat-induced damage in both NHCC cultivars by reducing MDA content and increasing proline levels, while antioxidant enzyme responses showed genotype-dependent patterns. In the heat-sensitive cultivar, EBR significantly increased SOD, POD, and CAT activities, whereas the heat-tolerant cultivar maintained relatively high SOD activity, accompanied by comparatively lower POD and CAT activities. Several BcBSK genes, particularly BcBSK2, BcBSK5, BcBSK14, and BcBSK18, showed pronounced expression responses under heat stress and may be associated with BR-mediated thermotolerance. Overall, these findings suggest that BcBSK family members are associated with BR-regulated thermotolerance and correlated with genotype-dependent differences in ROS regulatory strategies, providing a basis for further studies on heat tolerance improvement in NHCC. Full article

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

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20 pages, 4318 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ecological and Transcriptomic Insights into Lonicera caerulea Distribution Pattern and the Role of Its SWEET Gene Family

by Tianyi Wang, Fei Xia, Cai Qin, Tingting Du, Hongyan Cao, Yajuan Cui, Qing Yang, Xingliang Li and Dong Meng

Horticulturae 2026, 12(6), 685; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12060685 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2026

Abstract

Rapid climate shifts in high-latitude regions profoundly impact the geographical distribution boundaries and molecular adaptive strategies of cold-tolerant plants. Lonicera caerulea, known for its excellent cold tolerance, provides an ideal model for exploring the molecular mechanisms of climate adaptation and trait formation. [...] Read more.

Rapid climate shifts in high-latitude regions profoundly impact the geographical distribution boundaries and molecular adaptive strategies of cold-tolerant plants. Lonicera caerulea, known for its excellent cold tolerance, provides an ideal model for exploring the molecular mechanisms of climate adaptation and trait formation. To elucidate the ecological and molecular mechanisms of climate adaptation in L. caerulea, we integrated species distribution modeling with multi-tissue transcriptome profiling. Distribution modeling identified temperature and precipitation as primary constraints on its current range, with projections suggesting a significant poleward expansion under future warming scenarios. At the molecular level, we identified 19 LcSWEET genes exhibiting functional differentiation. Rather than listing specific candidates, our findings highlight that certain LcSWEET members are transcriptionally activated during fruit maturation, while others are significantly upregulated in response to cold stress, underscoring their dual roles in plant reproduction and ecological adaptation. This study revealed that the LcSWEET gene family exhibits functional diversification in tissue-specific expression and low-temperature stress response. It provides molecular candidates that may inform future studies on plant adaptive response under climate change and lays a theoretical foundation for germplasm conservation and high-quality breeding of L. caerulea. Full article

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

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