Horticulturae

Article

15 pages, 1050 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Coir-Based Growing Media with Municipal Compost and Biochar and Their Impacts on Growth and Some Quality Parameters in Lettuce Seedlings

by Tiago Carreira Martins, Rui M. A. Machado, Isabel Alves-Pereira, Rui Ferreira and Nazim S. Gruda

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010105 - 12 Jan 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4556

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop substrates with little or no peat by combining coir-based growing media with municipal compost and/or acacia biochar, two locally produced renewable resources, and to assess their effects on lettuce seedling emergence and growth, as well [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to develop substrates with little or no peat by combining coir-based growing media with municipal compost and/or acacia biochar, two locally produced renewable resources, and to assess their effects on lettuce seedling emergence and growth, as well as their content in photosynthetic pigments and total phenols. Two experiments were carried out, the first with six mixes using compost and biochar blended with perlite, pine bark, and blonde peat to adjust some physicochemical characteristics. The mixes of coir: compost: pine bark: blonde peat (73:12:5:10, v/v) and coir: compost: biochar: blonde peat (73:12:10:5, v/v) had physicochemical characteristics closer to or within the normal range of the substrates. The presence of 12% compost and 10% biochar in the mixtures had no adverse effect on lettuce seed germination and cumulative seed emergence, which ranged from 90 to 99%. The seedling growth in those mixes was vigorous and higher than in other mixtures. Coir-based growing media with municipal solid waste compost and compost plus biochar can reduce the use of peat to a percentage of 5–10% v/v and the use of 17–22% v/v of locally produced renewable resources. In addition, mixtures affected the total phenol content in the lettuce leaves. Future research is needed to assess the behavior of seedlings after their transplantation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soilless Culture—An Intensive Production Method on Its Way to Sustainability)

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10 pages, 8758 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Vernalization on Off–Season Flowering and Gene Expression in Sub-Tropical Strawberry cv. Pharachatan 80

by Thanyarat Thammasophon, Tonapha Pusadee, Weenun Bundithya and Daruni Naphrom

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010087 - 10 Jan 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3901

Abstract

Off-season strawberry production may diversify the yield, thereby increasing costs, but the environmental conditions are a limiting factor. This experiment aimed to study the effects of vernalization on off-season flowering and gene expression in sub-tropical strawberry cv. Pharachatan 80. The factorial (2 × [...] Read more.

Off-season strawberry production may diversify the yield, thereby increasing costs, but the environmental conditions are a limiting factor. This experiment aimed to study the effects of vernalization on off-season flowering and gene expression in sub-tropical strawberry cv. Pharachatan 80. The factorial (2 × 2) + 1 in a completely randomized design was used in this study. Factor A was the vernalization temperatures: 2 °C and 4 °C. Factor B was the vernalization periods: 1 week and 2 weeks, compared with non-vernalization (control). The expression profile of genes was determined after vernalization treatments. The results revealed an interaction between the two factors on the number of days it took the plants to bloom, the percentage of flowering, the number of inflorescences, the number of flowers per inflorescence and the number of flowers per plant, whereas the number of first flower bloom days, inflorescence length and flower size were not affected by the interaction between the two factors. Strawberry plants vernalized for 1 and 2 weeks at 2 °C showed earlier flowering (21.4 and 23.1 days, respectively) than did those vernalized at 4 °C (24.9 and 25.7 days, respectively). On the other hand, non-vernalized strawberry plants took longer to bloom, at 62.2 days. Strawberry plants vernalized at 2 °C for 2 weeks had the highest percentage of flowering, number of inflorescences, number of flowers per inflorescence and number of flowers per plant. The analysis on gene expression showed that VRN5, SOC1 and FT genes were upregulated after vernalization at 2 °C for 2 weeks, whereas gene expression of the control treatment was not detected. This study demonstrates that vernalization treatment could induce off-season flowering in sub-tropical strawberry cv. Pharachatan 80 by activating flowering genes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiology and Molecular Biology of Flowering, Fruit Setting, Fruit Quality)

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15 pages, 5771 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transcriptome Analysis of Rhododendron liliiflorum H. Lév. Flower Colour Differences

by Hang Zhang, Meifeng Chen, Xinglin Wang, Jin Dai, Xu Zhang, Zhengdong Zhang, Ximin Zhang, Ming Tang, Jing Tang, Jiyi Gong, Lunxian Liu and Yin Yi

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010082 - 9 Jan 2023

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 2705

Abstract

Rhododendron liliiflorum H. Lév., with white outer edges and yellow inner edges of petals, is an ornamental flower that originated in China. In this study, we analysed the white (W) and yellow (Y) parts of R. liliiflorum flowers by RNA sequencing. Then, unigene [...] Read more.

Rhododendron liliiflorum H. Lév., with white outer edges and yellow inner edges of petals, is an ornamental flower that originated in China. In this study, we analysed the white (W) and yellow (Y) parts of R. liliiflorum flowers by RNA sequencing. Then, unigene assembly, unigene annotation, and classification of Eukaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOGs) were performed. Gene ontology (GO) classification and pathway enrichment analysis for unigenes were also conducted. A total of 219,221 transcripts and 180,677 unigenes of R. liliiflorum were obtained from 48.52 Gb of clean reads. Differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis indicated that 2310 unigenes were upregulated and 3062 were downregulated in W vs. Y. Thirty-six of these DEGs were involved in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway. Pathway enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in phenylpropanoid, flavonoid, and isoflavone biosynthesis. The expression of dihydroflavonol-4-reductase (DFR) and chalcone synthase (CHS) may affect differences in R. liliiflorum flower colour. The findings on flavonoid biosynthesis and other related genes in this study will provide guidance for exploring the mechanism of flower colour formation in Rhododendron. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Molecular Biology Research on Ornamental Flower)

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18 pages, 1879 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Supplemental Lighting Quality Influences Time to Flower and Finished Quality of Three Long-Day Specialty Cut Flowers

by Caleb E. Spall and Roberto G. Lopez

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010073 - 6 Jan 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2508

Abstract

Year-round demand for locally sourced specialty cut flowers continues to increase. However, due to low radiation intensities and temperatures, growers in northern latitudes must utilize greenhouses, but limited production information detailing manipulation of the radiation environment exists. Therefore, our objective is to quantify [...] Read more.

Year-round demand for locally sourced specialty cut flowers continues to increase. However, due to low radiation intensities and temperatures, growers in northern latitudes must utilize greenhouses, but limited production information detailing manipulation of the radiation environment exists. Therefore, our objective is to quantify the influence of supplemental lighting (SL) quality on time to flower and harvest and stem quality of three long-day specialty cut flowers. Godetia ‘Grace Rose Pink’ (Clarkia amoena), snapdragon ‘Potomac Royal’ (Antirrhinum majus), and stock ‘Iron Rose’ (Matthiola incana) plugs are transplanted into bulb crates and placed in one of six greenhouse compartments with SL providing a total photon flux density of 120 µmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ from 0700 to 1900 HR. After four weeks, SL is extended to provide a 16 h photoperiod to induce flowering. SL treatments are provided by either high-pressure sodium (HPS) fixtures or various light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures. Treatments are defined by their 100 nm wavebands of blue (B; 400–500 nm), green (G; 500–600 nm), red (R; 600–700 nm), and far-red (FR; 700–800 nm) radiation (photon flux density in μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹) as B₇G₆₀R₄₄FR₉ (HPS₁₂₀), B₂₀G₅₀R₄₅FR₅, B₂₀R₈₅FR₁₅, B₃₀G₂₅R₆₅, B₁₂₀, or R₁₂₀. Time to harvest (TTH) is up to 14, 15, and 10 d slower under R₁₂₀ SL for godetia, snapdragon, and stock, respectively, compared to the quickest treatments (HPS₁₂₀, B₁₂₀, and B₂₀R₈₅FR₁₅ SL). However, R₁₂₀ SL produces cut flowers up to 18% longer than those grown under the quickest treatments. Both broad-spectrum LED fixtures slightly delay TTH compared to the quickest treatments. Stem caliper is not commercially different between treatments for godetia or snapdragon, although stems are up to 14% thinner for stock grown under B₁₂₀ SL compared to the other treatments. Flower petal color is not commercially different between SL treatments. We recommend utilizing a SL fixture providing a spectrum similar to B₂₀R₈₅FR₁₅ SL or B₂₀G₅₀R₄₅FR₅, as they elicit desirable crop responses with minimal developmental, quality, and visibility tradeoffs. While HPS lamps perform similarly to the recommended fixtures, we recommend utilizing LEDs for their higher photon efficacy and potential energy savings. Full article

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

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12 pages, 2426 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H NMR) Metabolic Profiles Discriminate Two Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Cultivars Arbequina and Koroneiki, with Different Geographical Origin

by Federica Angilè, Laura Del Coco, Chiara Roberta Girelli, Francesca Calò, Lucia Mazzi, Francesco Paolo Fanizzi, Gaetano Alessandro Vivaldi and Salvatore Camposeo

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010066 - 5 Jan 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2219

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H-NMR)-based metabolomic profiles of monovarietal olive oils obtained from Arbequina and Koroneiki, which are typically present in the Mediterranean basin and grown in Spain and Greece, respectively. Micro-milled oils were obtained [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate the Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (¹H-NMR)-based metabolomic profiles of monovarietal olive oils obtained from Arbequina and Koroneiki, which are typically present in the Mediterranean basin and grown in Spain and Greece, respectively. Micro-milled oils were obtained from olives harvested both in their cultivar home countries (Spain and Greece) and in Italy. Investigations by ¹H NMR metabolic profiling were carried out to develop a strategy for the correct interpretation of differences based on geographical origins. The NMR Spectroscopy and multivariate statistical analysis (MVA) revealed significant differences in fatty acids profile as well as the unsaponifiable fraction, not only according to the cultivars but also to the specific geographical origin of the olives used. In particular, the oils from Spain were higher in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) content than those from Italy. Conversely, the Italian oils of Koroneiki showed higher content of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) than Greek oils. Regarding the Extra Virgin Olive Oils (EVOOs) minor fraction, for both cultivars, the olive oils obtained using olives harvested in Italy were characterized by higher relative content of phenolic compounds. It was found that each of the investigated cultivars (Arbequina and Koroneiki), very popular in super high density (SHD) planting systems, assumed a specific well-characterized metabolic EVOO profile when the olives are harvested in Italy. These results may contribute to extending and enforcing available literature data on ¹H NMR-based chemometric models as powerful tools for EVOOs geographical origin discrimination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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14 pages, 3279 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In-Orchard Sizing of Mango Fruit: 2. Forward Estimation of Size at Harvest

by Marcelo H. Amaral and Kerry B. Walsh

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010054 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3557

Abstract

Forecast of tree fruit yield requires prediction of harvest time fruit size as well as fruit number. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit mass can be estimated from correlation to measurements of fruit length (L), width (W) and thickness (T). On-tree measurements of [...] Read more.

Forecast of tree fruit yield requires prediction of harvest time fruit size as well as fruit number. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit mass can be estimated from correlation to measurements of fruit length (L), width (W) and thickness (T). On-tree measurements of individually tagged fruit were undertaken using callipers at weekly intervals until the fruit were past commercial maturity, as judged using growing degree days (GDD), for mango cultivars ‘Honey Gold’, ‘Calypso’ and ‘Keitt’ at four locations in Australia and Brazil during the 2020/21 and 21/22 production seasons. Across all cultivars, the linear correlation of fruit mass to LWT was characterized by a R² of 0.99, RMSE of 29.9 g and slope of 0.5472 g/cm³, while the linear correlation of fruit mass to

L (\frac{(W + T)}{2}

)², mimicking what can be measured by machine vision of fruit on tree, was characterized by a R² of 0.97, RMSE of 25.0 g and slope of 0.5439 g/cm³. A procedure was established for the prediction of fruit size at harvest based on measurements made five and four or four and three weeks prior to harvest (approx. 514 and 422 GDD, before harvest, respectively). Linear regression models on weekly increase in fruit mass estimated from lineal measurements were characterized by an R² > 0.88 for all populations, with an average slope (rate of increase) of 19.6 ± 7.1 g/week, depending on cultivar, season and site. The mean absolute percentage error for predicted mass compared to harvested fruit weight for estimates based on measurements of the earlier and later intervals was 16.3 ± 1.3% and 4.5 ± 2.4%, respectively. Measurement at the later interval allowed better accuracy on prediction of fruit tray size distribution. A recommendation was made for forecast of fruit mass at harvest based on in-field measurements at approximately 400 to 450 GDD units before harvest GDD and one week later. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based, Proximal and Remote Sensing in Orchards and Vineyards — State of the Art, Challenges, Data Fusion and Integration)

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17 pages, 55980 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genome Size, Flowering, and Breeding Compatibility in Osmanthus Accessions

by Lisa Alexander

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010056 - 3 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2158

Abstract

Extending the range of Osmanthus species into more cold-hardy climates would open new opportunities for adoption and use of these species by growers, landscapers, and the public. Breeding improvement is hindered by few available cultivars and a lack of female or perfect flowers. [...] Read more.

Extending the range of Osmanthus species into more cold-hardy climates would open new opportunities for adoption and use of these species by growers, landscapers, and the public. Breeding improvement is hindered by few available cultivars and a lack of female or perfect flowers. The objectives of this study were to evaluate floral morphology and pollination biology of Osmanthus species available in the U.S. market. Thirty-three genotypes representing four species were evaluated in McMinnville, TN, USA for genome size, floral morphology, pollen viability, and self- and cross-compatibility. All genotypes were diploid with 2C genome sizes ranging from 2.89 to 3.21 pg. Perfect flowers were observed in all O. armatus and 82% of O. heterophyllus genotypes. All observed O. fortunei and O. fragrans genotypes had male-only flowers. Pollen viability based on staining and in vitro germination ranged from 8% to 98% and 6% to 53%, respectively. Pollen germination was observed on stigmas of 94.2% of O. armatus and O. heterophyllus flowers collected 24 hours after cross- or self-pollination. There was a significant association between cross type and percentage of flowers with pollen tubes reaching the ovaries; after 72 h, pollen tubes had reached the ovaries of in 67% of intraspecific crosses, 78% of interspecific crosses, and 0% of self crosses (χ² = 26.5, p < 0.001). This study provides evidence of a self-incompatibility system in O. armatus and O. heterophyllus and provides insights into opportunities and challenges for Osmanthus hybrid breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Improvement of Horticultural Plants with Special Emphasis on Ornamentals)

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14 pages, 1637 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tolerance and Physiological Responses of Citrus Rootstock Cultivars to Boron Toxicity

by Wanyun Yang, Huidong Yang, Lili Ling, Changpin Chun and Liangzhi Peng

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010044 - 2 Jan 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2689

Abstract

Boron (B) is an essential trace nutrient element for citrus, but excessive B levels are frequently encountered in citrus production, potentially resulting in citrus toxicity. To better understand the tolerance and physiological responses of citrus rootstocks to excess B levels, Trifoliate orange, Ziyangxiangcheng, [...] Read more.

Boron (B) is an essential trace nutrient element for citrus, but excessive B levels are frequently encountered in citrus production, potentially resulting in citrus toxicity. To better understand the tolerance and physiological responses of citrus rootstocks to excess B levels, Trifoliate orange, Ziyangxiangcheng, Carrizo citrange, and Red tangerine were treated with four B concentrations (0.05, 0.2, 0.8, and 3.2 mmol/L). High B concentrations resulted in leaf yellowing and shedding and eventual plant death. Chlorophyll content and photosynthetic capacity declined in response to high B concentrations, and relative leaf cell conductivity rose significantly. Trifoliate orange was the first to exhibit symptoms of B toxicity, with the highest levels of B-associated injury. As B concentrations rose, the height increment ratio declined, as did belowground and aboveground dry fresh weight. Soluble protein content initially rose and then fell, while proline content, SOD activity, and POD activity rose with B concentrations. B levels in these rootstocks also increased significantly, with the greatest increases in the leaves. Principal component analysis and subordinate function results revealed that the relative rank order for the B tolerance of citrus rootstocks was: Red tangerine > Carrizo citrange > Ziyangxiangcheng > Trifoliate orange. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Trends in Citrus Cultivation and Physiology Research)

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16 pages, 3250 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

BcAMT1;5 Mediates Nitrogen Uptake and Assimilation in Flowering Chinese Cabbage and Improves Plant Growth When Overexpressed in Arabidopsis

by Yunna Zhu, Lihua Zhong, Xinmin Huang, Wei Su, Houcheng Liu, Guangwen Sun, Shiwei Song and Riyuan Chen

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010043 - 1 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2194

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is a major limiting factor for plant growth and vegetable production. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of N uptake, transport, and assimilation is key to improving N use efficiency in plants. Ammonium transporters (AMTs) play an important role in plant N metabolism. [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) is a major limiting factor for plant growth and vegetable production. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of N uptake, transport, and assimilation is key to improving N use efficiency in plants. Ammonium transporters (AMTs) play an important role in plant N metabolism. In this study, we isolated an important AMT1 subfamily member (BcAMT1;5) with a highly conserved signatural AMT1 subfamily motif from flowering Chinese cabbage. Based on functional complementation in yeast mutant 31019b and overexpression of BcAMT1;5 in Arabidopsis, BcAMT1;5 is a functional AMT. Tissue expression analysis showed that BcAMT1;5 was mainly expressed in roots and showed multiple N regime transcript patterns to respond to varying nutritional conditions. This was up-regulated by N-deficiency and down-regulated by supplying NH₄⁺. The glucuronidase (GUS) activities of BcAMT1;5_pro::GUS showed a similar change in response to different N conditions. Overexpression of BcAMT1;5 accelerated the growth of transgenic seedlings, increased NH₄⁺ net influxes, and enhanced the content and accumulation of NH₄⁺ and NO₃⁻ at low N concentrations. Additionally, it increased the transcript levels of N assimilation-related genes in shoots. These results indicate that BcAMT1;5 may participate in N uptake and assimilation under various N conditions in flowering Chinese cabbage, but it was differed obviously from other AMT1s. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advance in Germplasm Resources, Biotechnology and Genetic Breeding of Vegetable Crops)

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18 pages, 4050 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Generating Novel Tomato Germplasm Using the Ancestral Wild Relative of Solanum pimpinellifolium

by Wenzhen Li, Yuhang Li, Yingnuan Liang, Linlin Ni, Huofeng Huang, Yushuang Wei, Mingcui Wang, Lida Zhang and Lingxia Zhao

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010034 - 29 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3558

Abstract

To create novel tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) germplasm, a wild tomato relative, S. pimpinellifolium (a red-fruited LA1585 accession), was used as the male parent to cross with the yellow-fruited tomato mutant, e9292 (S. lycopersicum). Forty-four morphological characteristics were examined in [...] Read more.

To create novel tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) germplasm, a wild tomato relative, S. pimpinellifolium (a red-fruited LA1585 accession), was used as the male parent to cross with the yellow-fruited tomato mutant, e9292 (S. lycopersicum). Forty-four morphological characteristics were examined in the present study; 22 S. pimpinellifolium (LA1585) traits and six S. lycopersicum (e9292) traits were dominant in the hybrids (first generation, F₁); 10 were intermediate types, and the remaining six resulted in a nonmorphological difference. Ten representative lines were chosen from 1338 line of the second generation of the hybrid (e9292 × LA1585). The ascorbic acid content was higher in three F₂ hybrids than in LA1585, which had higher parental levels, as well as the lycopene content in two of the hybrid lines. The fructose and glucose contents were higher in five F₂ hybrids compared to e9292, and the sugar/acid value was higher in three hybrid lines. The broad-sense heritability values ranged from 75.06% for total soluble solids to 99.92% for ascorbic acid, and the average value was 92.66% for 15 quality traits. When seedlings were exposed to NaCl and mannitol, the tolerance of high salt concentrations and drought was enhanced in two hybrid lines (F₂-266 and F₂-299) compared with else tomatoes (e9292, LA1585, F₁ hybrids, and F₂-332). We created novel tomato germplasm resources with horticulturally desirable quality traits and abiotic stress tolerance, thus offering a methodology for novel tomato germplasm creation and evaluation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Genetic Engineering and Quality Improvement in Vegetable Crops)

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15 pages, 6097 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Mechanical Winter Pruning on Vine Performances and Management Costs in a Trebbiano Romagnolo Vineyard: A Five-Year Study

by Gianluca Allegro, Roberta Martelli, Gabriele Valentini, Chiara Pastore, Riccardo Mazzoleni, Fabio Pezzi and Ilaria Filippetti

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010021 - 23 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3222

Abstract

Vineyard mechanical winter pruning has been spreading worldwide, and the physiological basis ascribable to it has been consolidated throughout the years. Despite labor savings and reduction of costs having been proven, the demonstration of its economic viability might be challenging. In this context, [...] Read more.

Vineyard mechanical winter pruning has been spreading worldwide, and the physiological basis ascribable to it has been consolidated throughout the years. Despite labor savings and reduction of costs having been proven, the demonstration of its economic viability might be challenging. In this context, this work aims to evaluate the vine performances and the costs of different degrees of the mechanization of winter pruning over a five-year trial (2011–2015). In a vineyard of cv. Trebbiano Romagnolo (Vitis vinifera L.) located in northern Italy, three pruning treatments were laid out as follows: (a) manual pruning (MAN); (b) mechanical pre-pruning and simultaneous manual follow-up (MP + F); (c) mechanical pruning without a manual follow-up (MP). The results showed a strong increase in the node number of MP. Nevertheless, the yield compensation factors (i.e., the shoot fruitfulness and cluster weight) limited the increase in productivity. Soluble solids did not differ between the pruning treatments, while titratable acidity resulted slightly higher only on the MP berries. The MP treatment was the most economically convenient, with a vineyard surface of 1.5 hectares, while mechanical pruning with manual finishing resulted more advantageous, compared to manual pruning when the vineyard surface was greater than 2.9 hectares. The agronomic and economic results obtained in this five-year trial suggest that mechanical pruning may be profitably applied also on grapevine varieties characterized by low basal bud fruitfulness, such as Trebbiano Romagnolo. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Innovation and Solution for Sustainable Agriculture)

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15 pages, 1913 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Anemone Cut Flower Timing, Yield, and Quality in a High-Elevation Field and High Tunnel

by Shannon Rauter, Melanie Stock, Brent Black, Dan Drost, Xin Dai and Ruby Ward

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010002 - 20 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2937

Abstract

A narrow window of optimal spring temperatures limits anemone (Anemone coronaria L.) cut flower production in the US Intermountain West, where fall plantings risk winter injury and spring plantings are limited by summer dormancy. Regional management recommendations are needed to improve anemone harvest [...] Read more.

A narrow window of optimal spring temperatures limits anemone (Anemone coronaria L.) cut flower production in the US Intermountain West, where fall plantings risk winter injury and spring plantings are limited by summer dormancy. Regional management recommendations are needed to improve anemone harvest timing and yield for growers in USDA hardiness zones 6 and below (average annual minimum temperatures below −18 °C). The aim of this research was to optimize flower timing, yield, quality, and profitability in high tunnel and field production systems by evaluating planting dates, winter insulation, tuber preparation, and cultivar selection. High tunnel and field trials were conducted from fall 2020 to spring 2022 in North Logan, UT (41.767° N, −111.811° W, 1405 m elevation, USDA hardiness zone 5). Tubers were pre-sprouted or directly planted into a high tunnel (left bare or covered with low tunnels) or field (left bare or covered with mulch, a low tunnel, or mulch and a low tunnel) from November to April. Harvest began as early as 2 March in the high tunnel and 9 April in the field, with overall average marketable yields (stems per m² ± SE) of 142 ± 7 in the high tunnel and 85 ± 4 in the field. Planting pre-sprouted tubers under low tunnels in the high tunnel in November delivered the earliest harvest (2 March), greatest marketable yield (280 stems per m² ± 73 SE), and greatest net returns ($38 per m²). For November field plantings, insulation improved emergence by 75% and marketable yield by 77 stems per m² ± 15 SE. Combining high tunnel and field production with the season advancement techniques of fall planting dates, low-cost insulation, and pre-sprouting resulted in high total yields in the Intermountain West compared to traditional industry recommendations. Full article

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

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13 pages, 998 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Novel Model Fusion Approach for Greenhouse Crop Yield Prediction

by Liyun Gong, Miao Yu, Vassilis Cutsuridis, Stefanos Kollias and Simon Pearson

Horticulturae 2023, 9(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9010005 - 20 Dec 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3483

Abstract

In this work, we have proposed a novel methodology for greenhouse tomato yield prediction, which is based on a hybrid of an explanatory biophysical model—the Tomgro model, and a machine learning model called CNN-RNN. The Tomgro and CNN-RNN models are calibrated/trained for predicting [...] Read more.

In this work, we have proposed a novel methodology for greenhouse tomato yield prediction, which is based on a hybrid of an explanatory biophysical model—the Tomgro model, and a machine learning model called CNN-RNN. The Tomgro and CNN-RNN models are calibrated/trained for predicting tomato yields while different fusion approaches (linear, Bayesian, neural network, random forest and gradient boosting) are exploited for fusing the prediction result of individual models for obtaining the final prediction results. The experimental results have shown that the model fusion approach achieves more accurate prediction results than the explanatory biophysical model or the machine learning model. Moreover, out of different model fusion approaches, the neural network one produced the most accurate tomato prediction results, with means and standard deviations of root mean square error (RMSE), r2-coefficient, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) and percent bias (PBIAS) being 17.69 ± 3.47 g/m

^{2}

, 0.9995 ± 0.0002, 0.9989 ± 0.0004 and 0.1791 ± 0.6837, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Applications of Big Data and Machine Learning in Smart Agriculture)

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17 pages, 4835 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In-Orchard Sizing of Mango Fruit: 1. Comparison of Machine Vision Based Methods for On-The-Go Estimation

by Chiranjivi Neupane, Anand Koirala and Kerry B. Walsh

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121223 - 19 Dec 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3331

Abstract

Estimation of fruit size on-tree is useful for yield estimation, harvest timing and market planning. Automation of measurement of fruit size on-tree is possible using RGB-depth (RGB-D) cameras, if partly occluded fruit can be removed from consideration. An RGB-D Time of Flight camera [...] Read more.

Estimation of fruit size on-tree is useful for yield estimation, harvest timing and market planning. Automation of measurement of fruit size on-tree is possible using RGB-depth (RGB-D) cameras, if partly occluded fruit can be removed from consideration. An RGB-D Time of Flight camera was used in an imaging system that can be driven through an orchard. Three approaches were compared, being: (i) refined bounding box dimensions of a YOLO object detector; (ii) bounding box dimensions of an instance segmentation model (Mask R-CNN) applied to canopy images, and (iii) instance segmentation applied to extracted bounding boxes from a YOLO detection model. YOLO versions 3, 4 and 7 and their tiny variants were compared to an in-house variant, MangoYOLO, for this application, with YOLO v4-tiny adopted. Criteria developed to exclude occluded fruit by filtering based on depth, mask size, ellipse to mask area ratio and difference between refined bounding box height and ellipse major axis. The lowest root mean square error (RMSE) of 4.7 mm and 5.1 mm on the lineal length dimensions of a population (n = 104) of Honey Gold and Keitt varieties of mango fruit, respectively, and the lowest fruit exclusion rate was achieved using method (ii), while the RMSE on estimated fruit weight was 113 g on a population weight range between 180 and 1130 g. An example use is provided, with the method applied to video of an orchard row to produce a weight frequency distribution related to packing tray size. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based, Proximal and Remote Sensing in Orchards and Vineyards — State of the Art, Challenges, Data Fusion and Integration)

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16 pages, 3593 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Correlations between the Phylogenetic Relationship of 14 Tulasnella Strains and Their Promotion Effect on Dendrobium crepidatum Protocorm

by Jiayi Zhao, Zhenjian Li, Siyu Wang, Fu Yang, Lubin Li and Lei Liu

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121213 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2384

Abstract

The compatibility of mycorrhizal fungi with the early growth stage of orchids is essential for their growth. In this study, the compatibility and promotion effects of 14 Tulasnella strains from different hosts were studied by co-culturing them with the protocorms of Dendrobium crepidatum [...] Read more.

The compatibility of mycorrhizal fungi with the early growth stage of orchids is essential for their growth. In this study, the compatibility and promotion effects of 14 Tulasnella strains from different hosts were studied by co-culturing them with the protocorms of Dendrobium crepidatum, which has high ornamental and economic value in China. The ITS–LSU–SSU–TEF combined sequence analysis divided the 14 strains into three clades belonging to Tulasnella calospora (clades A and B) and Tulasnella asymmetrica (clade C). All the strains were compatible with D. crepidatum protocorms within 90 d of the co-culture. Strain T12 in Clade A had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) effect on the biomass and morphology of D. crepidatum, and strain T13 in Clade C had a significantly lower (p < 0.05) effect than the other strains. Through morphological principal component analysis, we constructed a hierarchical cluster analysis tree, which was consistent with the phylogenetic tree of these 14 strains at the clade level. Orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis showed that these strains have an important effect on the plant height, root number, and length of D. crepidatum. The findings of this study will contribute to the identification of Tulasnella strains, conservation of D. crepidatum resources, and commercial utilization of mycorrhizal technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycorrhizal Roles in Horticultural Plants)

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15 pages, 3399 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Monitoring Stem Water Potential with an Embedded Microtensiometer to Inform Irrigation Scheduling in Fruit Crops

by Alan N. Lakso, Michael Santiago and Abraham D. Stroock

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121207 - 16 Dec 2022

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4931

Abstract

The water status of fruit and nut crops is critical to the high productivity, quality and value of these crops. Water status is often estimated and managed with indirect measurements of soil moisture and models of evapotranspiration. However, cultivated trees and vines have [...] Read more.

The water status of fruit and nut crops is critical to the high productivity, quality and value of these crops. Water status is often estimated and managed with indirect measurements of soil moisture and models of evapotranspiration. However, cultivated trees and vines have characteristics and associated cultural practices that complicate such methods, particularly variable discontinuous canopies, and extensive but low-density, variable root systems with relatively high hydraulic resistance. Direct and continuous measurement of plant water status is desirable in these crops as the plant integrates its unique combination of weather, soil and cultural factors. To measure plant water potential with high temporal sampling rates, a stem-embedded microchip microtensiometer sensor has been developed and tested in several fruit crops for long-term continuous monitoring of stem water potential. Results on several fruit crops in orchards and vineyards have been good to excellent, with very good correlations to the pressure chamber standard method. The primary challenge has been establishing and maintaining the intimate contact with the xylem for long periods of time, with variable stem anatomies, stem growth and wound reactions. Sources of variability in the measurements and utilization of the continuous data stream, in relation to irrigation scheduling, are discussed. Direct continuous and long-term field measurements are possible and provide unique opportunities for both research and farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based, Proximal and Remote Sensing in Orchards and Vineyards — State of the Art, Challenges, Data Fusion and Integration)

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15 pages, 1601 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparison of Different Physical Methods and Preservatives for Control of Fusarium proliferatum Rot in Garlic

by Laura La Placa, Paola Giorni, Letizia Mondani, Naresh Magan and Paola Battilani

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1203; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121203 - 15 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2424

Abstract

Dry rot is an emerging issue for garlic production worldwide and Fusarium proliferatum is its major causal agent. Since the disease is seed-transmitted, sowing healthy cloves is crucial. In this study, some disinfection strategies were tested on garlic seeds, including steam, dry heat, [...] Read more.

Dry rot is an emerging issue for garlic production worldwide and Fusarium proliferatum is its major causal agent. Since the disease is seed-transmitted, sowing healthy cloves is crucial. In this study, some disinfection strategies were tested on garlic seeds, including steam, dry heat, chemical disinfectants and gaseous ozone (O₃). Steam reduced the Colony Forming Units·g⁻¹ (CFUs·g⁻¹) by up to 92% in garlic seeds, but, at the same time, it affected their germination (−36%). Similarly, hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and peracetic acid (C₂H₄O₃) reduced the CFUs·g⁻¹ by up to 83%; however, these methods also severely impaired germination (−40%). Dry heat did not negatively impact germination, but fungal contamination was not significantly reduced. The most promising strategy was gaseous O₃ treatment; it decreased CFUs·g⁻¹ by up to 96%, without causing any reduction of germination. The treatments applied were partially effective because the fungus is predominantly located in the outer layer of the seed, although it is also found in the inner portions. Some of these treatments can contribute to garlic protection from seed-borne pathogens and possibly reduce the occurrence of garlic dry rot. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants Pathology and Advances in Disease Management)

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9 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Quality and Yield of Bell Pepper Cultivated with Two and Three Stems in a Modern Agriculture System

by Jorge Flores-Velazquez, Cándido Mendoza-Perez, Juan Enrique Rubiños-Panta and Jesus del Rosario Ruelas-Islas

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1187; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121187 - 13 Dec 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 8063

Abstract

Bell pepper is a very important crop for its value in domestic and foreign markets. Actually, growers have adopted different management practices. In that aspect, management with different numbers of stems can define the quality and quantity of the product, as well as [...] Read more.

Bell pepper is a very important crop for its value in domestic and foreign markets. Actually, growers have adopted different management practices. In that aspect, management with different numbers of stems can define the quality and quantity of the product, as well as any increase in yield. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physical and chemical characteristics of fruits in terms of the quality and postharvest of bell pepper, as well as the yield according to the number of stems grown in a hydroponic system under greenhouse conditions. The experiment consisted of four treatments: two stems (T1) and three stems (T2) on a ‘Cannon’ cultivar, as well as two stems (T3) and three stems (T4) on a ‘Bragi’ cultivar. Fruits were sampled to determine total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), maturity index (MI), vitamin C (VC), lycopene content, size, shape, color, firmness, and yield. High vitamin C concentration of 120 mg 100 g⁻¹ was found in both cultivars. Treatments from ‘Cannon’ had the higher TSS content, lycopene levels and firmness. Regarding the physical characteristics, T1 of ‘Cannon’ had better fruit size: 63% (large), 35% (medium) and 2% (small). The highest yield was obtained in T2 of ‘Bragi’ with 6.50 kg m⁻². It was observed that total number of fruits increased as the number of stems increased. However, the size of the fruits decreased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Factory and Modern Horticulture)

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14 pages, 3466 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Further Characterization of Host Preference of Acidovorax citrulli Based on Growth Competition between Group I and Group II Strains

by Yuwen Yang, Pei Qiao, Tielin Wang, Weiqin Ji, Nuoya Fei, Liqun Zhang, Wei Guan and Tingchang Zhao

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121173 - 9 Dec 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2356

Abstract

Acidovorax citrulli, the causal agent of bacterial fruit blotch, can be divided into two groups. Group I is mainly isolated from melon, and group II is mainly isolated from watermelon. In this study, group I and II strains were used to assess [...] Read more.

Acidovorax citrulli, the causal agent of bacterial fruit blotch, can be divided into two groups. Group I is mainly isolated from melon, and group II is mainly isolated from watermelon. In this study, group I and II strains were used to assess competition in vivo and in vitro by evaluating inhibition activity assays and by measuring population growth dynamics. Our results indicated that there is no mutual inhibition of growth between the two groups of strains in King’s B medium. The bacterial populations of A. citrulli strains were counted within 7 days after inoculation in melon and watermelon cotyledons and plotted against time to generate population growth curves. Area under the population growth curves was calculated. When the two groups of strains were inoculated separately into melon and watermelon cotyledons, the results of analysis of variance show that there was no significant difference. In this study, for the first time in an experimental setting, we inoculated two A. citrulli groups into melon and watermelon cotyledons at the same time and determined the population dynamics of each strain. The results showed that there was no significant difference between two group strains in melon cotyledons. However, in watermelon cotyledons, the area under population growth curves of group II strain were significantly higher than those of group I strain. Three-way analysis of variance results showed that there was interaction between host and grouping on the influence of strain population level (p < 0.0001). These data provide additional information on the host preference of different groups of A. citrulli. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Diseases in Horticulture: Advances in the Study of Pathogens, Interaction with the Host, Diagnosis and Sustainable Control)

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17 pages, 5248 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of LED Red and Blue Light Component on Growth and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Coriander in Plant Factory

by Qi Gao, Qiuhong Liao, Qingming Li, Qichang Yang, Fang Wang and Jianming Li

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1165; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121165 - 8 Dec 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5827

Abstract

Coriander is a whole-plant edible micro vegetable frequently used in the food industry. Its fresh eating features give it a flavor that is both tasty and refreshing, as well as potentially dangerous due to the bacteria (e.g., Shigella sonnei) it may contain. [...] Read more.

Coriander is a whole-plant edible micro vegetable frequently used in the food industry. Its fresh eating features give it a flavor that is both tasty and refreshing, as well as potentially dangerous due to the bacteria (e.g., Shigella sonnei) it may contain. Artificial light-based plant factories are becoming increasingly popular due to the development of light-emitting diodes (i.e., LEDs). These plant factories employ artificial light to recreate the ideal lighting conditions for photosynthesis, ensuring plant yield and safety. Red (R) light and blue (B) light are essential for crop development and photosynthesis because R light and B light correspond to the wavelength absorption peaks of chlorophyll. However, the sensitivity of various crops to the light of varying wavelengths varies. Here, we determined the ideal R to B light ratio for cultivating coriander in plant factories by evaluating the photosynthetic characteristics of coriander (‘Sumai’) under different red–blue ratios. Specifically, we used monochrome red (R) and blue (B) light as controls and evaluated a total of seven different ratio treatments of R and B light (R, R:B = 5:1 (R5B1), R:B = 3:1 (R3B1), R:B = 1:1 (R1B1), R:B = 1:3 (R1B3), R:B = 1:5 (R1B5), B) under the background of uniform light intensity (200 ± 10 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹) and photoperiod (16-h/8-h light/dark). The results showed that the total yield of R:B = 3:1 (R3B1) was 16.11% and 30.61% higher than monochrome R and B treatments, respectively, the photosynthetic rate (P_n) and stomatal density were increased, and the nitrate content was decreased. Monochromatic light has adverse effects on crops. Monochromatic R light reduces the CO₂ assimilation amount. Monochromatic blue light treatment lowers chlorophyll concentration and net photosynthetic rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances of Vegetable Cultivation)

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18 pages, 3410 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Preliminary Study on the Impact of Non-Thermal Plasma Activated Water on the Quality of Triticum aestivum L. cv. Glosa Sprouts

by Alexandru Mandici, Daniel Eusebiu Cretu, Radu Burlica, Dragos Astanei, Oana Beniuga, Craita Rosu, Denis Constantin Topa, Tudor George Aostacioaei, Ana Clara Aprotosoaie and Anca Miron

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121158 - 7 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2489

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of non-thermal plasma-activated water (PAW) on Triticum aestivum L. cv. Glosa sprouts. Two types of PAW were generated by exposing distilled water to a high-voltage electric discharge. Wheat caryopses were treated either with PAW1 (25 [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of non-thermal plasma-activated water (PAW) on Triticum aestivum L. cv. Glosa sprouts. Two types of PAW were generated by exposing distilled water to a high-voltage electric discharge. Wheat caryopses were treated either with PAW1 (25 mg/L NO₃⁻, 4 mg/L NO₂⁻, and 6 mg/L H₂O₂) or PAW2 (35 mg/L NO₃⁻, 5 mg/L NO₂⁻, and 7.5 mg/L H₂O₂) for 8 days, with samples being collected at days 1, 2, 3, and 8. The germination rate, growth parameters, protein, photosynthetic pigments, total phenolic contents, antioxidant activity of free and bound phenolic fractions, and activity of antioxidant enzymes were evaluated. Both PAW1 and PAW2 had positive effects on Triticum aestivum L. cv. Glosa sprouts. PAW2 had a better impact on sprouts with respect to growth parameters, free phenolic content, and antioxidant activity of the free phenolic fraction (day 3), the accumulation of proteins, and photosynthetic pigments (day 8). In conclusion, exposure to PAW increases the quality of Triticum aestivum L. cv. Glosa sprouts. Further optimization of PAW treatment is required for the most favorable impact on the accumulation of biomass and health-promoting compounds in sprouts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medicinal, Aromatic, Spice Plants: Biodiversity, Phytochemistry, Bioactivity and Their Processing Innovation)

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14 pages, 2763 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Different Root Zone Heating Methods on the Growth and Photosynthetic Characteristics of Cucumber

by Xueting Bi, Xiaozhuo Wang and Xueyan Zhang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121137 - 2 Dec 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2615

Abstract

Root zone heating can solve the problems associated with the yield and decline in the quality caused by low-temperature stress in cucumber during winter and early spring. An experiment was performed to investigate the effects of different heating methods on the root zone [...] Read more.

Root zone heating can solve the problems associated with the yield and decline in the quality caused by low-temperature stress in cucumber during winter and early spring. An experiment was performed to investigate the effects of different heating methods on the root zone temperature, growth and photosynthetic characteristics, fruit quality, and yield of cucumber. Using traditional soil cultivation (CK1) and sand cultivation (CK2) in a greenhouse as the controls, four heating treatments were set up: soil-ridge sand-embedded cultivation (T1), water-heated soil cultivation (T2), water-heated sand cultivation (T3), and water-curtain and floor-heating cultivation (T4). The results indicated that heating treatments T2 and T4 had better warming and insulation effects than the other treatments during both day and night, with an average temperature increase throughout the day of 0.8–1.2 °C compared with CK1. The chlorophyll content of leaves under the T2 and T4 treatments increased, and the photosynthetic rate and the overall plant growth were significantly higher than in the other treatments. Compared with the control, the fruit yield increased most significantly under the T2 and T4; the soluble sugar, soluble solids, and Vc contents in the fruit increased; while the nitrate content in the fruit decreased, effectively improving the fruit’s quality and yield. It was finally determined that the T2 and T4 heating treatments are the most effective in solving the low-temperature problem. Moreover, as T2 consumed relatively more electricity, the use of a water-curtain and floor-heating system in winter and spring should be considered in order to boost the yield and improve the quality. Full article

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13 pages, 2236 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Potential of Debaryomyces hansenii Strains on the Inhibition of Botrytis cinerea in Blueberry Fruits (Vaccinium corymbosum L.)

by Surelys Ramos-Bell, Luis G. Hernández-Montiel, Rita M. Velázquez-Estrada, Juan A. Herrera-González and Porfirio Gutiérrez-Martínez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121125 - 30 Nov 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2580

Abstract

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is a crop with great potential for exportation and is very important for its antioxidant properties. However, this fruit is susceptible to different factors of deterioration and attack by pathogens. Botrytis cinerea is the main cause of post-harvest [...] Read more.

Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is a crop with great potential for exportation and is very important for its antioxidant properties. However, this fruit is susceptible to different factors of deterioration and attack by pathogens. Botrytis cinerea is the main cause of post-harvest losses in this crop. Antagonistic yeasts from the Debaryomyces hansenii species, which is of marine origin, have been proposed as an alternative method for fungal control. For this reason, this study evaluated the in vitro and in vivo antagonistic capacity of the yeast against B. cinerea. The in vitro growth of the fungus was inhibited by 90% and germination was reduced by 100%, and through the production of volatile organic compounds, the growth of the pathogen was inhibited by 32.5%. Photographic evidence by electron microscopy revealed the effects caused by D. hansenii on B. cinerea. The incidence study showed a 50% reduction in the incidence of the disease caused by B. cinerea in blueberries, while quality parameters—such as soluble solids, titratable acidity, and pH—presented stable values, delaying the maturation process of the fruits. Likewise, the rate of reduction in firmness and physiological weight loss was lower, and the blueberries preserved their quality for a longer time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Disease Control in Horticultural Production)

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17 pages, 2603 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Unveiling the Predisposing Factors for the Development of Branch Canker and Dieback in Avocado: A Case of Study in Chilean Orchards

by Ana L. Valencia, Jorge Saavedra-Torrico, Inés Marlene Rosales, Johanna Mártiz, Alonso Retamales, Andrés Link and Pilar M. Gil

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121121 - 29 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3333

Abstract

Chilean avocado orchards have been affected by branch canker and dieback, mainly associated with pathogens species of the family Botryosphaeriaceae. Producers often relate water stress to these phenomena; however, predisposing factors for these diseases in Chilean orchards have not been reported. Therefore, the [...] Read more.

Chilean avocado orchards have been affected by branch canker and dieback, mainly associated with pathogens species of the family Botryosphaeriaceae. Producers often relate water stress to these phenomena; however, predisposing factors for these diseases in Chilean orchards have not been reported. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify the main climate, planting, and management variables associated with branch canker and dieback in Chilean avocado orchards. Multivariable statistical analyses (PCA and PLS-DA) were performed to analyze 76 variables possibly associated with the incidence of these diseases during two consecutive growing seasons. Our findings indicated that branch canker and dieback are mainly conditioned by orchard variables such as plant age, canopy volume, trunk diameter, leaf area index, and planting density. Variables associated with aged orchards, such as high age, high canopy volume, and high trunk diameter, appeared to be more associated with high incidence levels than were younger orchards with higher planting densities and high tree vigor levels. In addition, abiotic stresses, such as frost and overirrigation, were associated as secondary factors affecting these diseases’ development in avocado orchards. Moreover, this study allowed us to determine that branch canker and dieback can develop indistinctly in the different Chilean agroclimatic zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogens and Disease Control of Fruit Trees)

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14 pages, 2475 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

HyPRP1, A Tomato Multipotent Regulator, Negatively Regulates Tomato Resistance to Sulfur Dioxide Toxicity and Can Also Reduce Abiotic Stress Tolerance of Escherichia coli and Tobacco

by Xueting Chen, Lulu Wang, Yan Liang, Xiaomeng Hu, Qianqian Pan, Yin Ding and Jinhua Li

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121118 - 28 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2191

Abstract

Abiotic stresses have led to an extensive decline in global crop production and quality. As one of the abiotic stress factors, sulfur dioxide (SO₂) causes severe oxidative damage to plant tissues. Based on our previous study, a tomato hybrid-proline-rich protein 1 [...] Read more.

Abiotic stresses have led to an extensive decline in global crop production and quality. As one of the abiotic stress factors, sulfur dioxide (SO₂) causes severe oxidative damage to plant tissues. Based on our previous study, a tomato hybrid-proline-rich protein 1 (HyPRP1) was found to be involved in abiotic stress and SO₂ metabolism, though the gene functions remained largely unknown. In this study, the function analysis of the HyPRP1 gene was extended, and DNA methylation analysis, subcellular localization, and cis-element analysis were performed to investigate the features of this gene. The DNA methylation analysis implied that the HyPRP1 gene was hypermethylated and the methylation density in the leaf differed from that in the flower and fruit. Subcellular localization analysis identified HyPRP1 localized in the cytoplasm and plasma membrane in vivo. The E. coli cells harboring SlHyPRP1 showed reduced salt and drought resistance. In tomato, when SO₂ toxicity occurred, the HyPRP1 RNAi knockdown lines accumulated more sulfates and less hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and showed minimal leaf necrosis and chlorophyll bleaching. In tobacco, the overexpression of HyPRP1 reduced tolerance against salt stresses exerted by NaCl. We conclude that the heterologous expression of tomato HyPRP1 in E. coli and tobacco reduces abiotic stress tolerance and negatively regulates the resistance to sulfur dioxide toxicity by scavenging H₂O₂ and sulfite in tomato. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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13 pages, 2506 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Identification of a Leafy Head Formation Related Gene in Chinese Cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis)

by Yonghui Zhao, Chuanhong Liu, Bing Fang, Shengnan Huang, Nan Wang, Chong Tan, Jie Ren and Hui Feng

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111086 - 17 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2460

Abstract

Leafy head formation is one of the most important characteristics of Chinese cabbage, and the process is regulated by a series of genes and environmental factors. In this study, a non-heading short leaf mutant slm was identified from an ethyl methane sulfonate mutagenesis [...] Read more.

Leafy head formation is one of the most important characteristics of Chinese cabbage, and the process is regulated by a series of genes and environmental factors. In this study, a non-heading short leaf mutant slm was identified from an ethyl methane sulfonate mutagenesis (EMS) population of the heading Chinese cabbage line FT. The most significant phenotypic characteristics of slm was shortening leaves and increasing leaf numbers, which led to failure to form a leafy head. Genetic analysis showed that a single recessive gene Brslm was responsible for the mutant phenotype. Mutmap analysis suggested that Brslm was located on chromosome A07, and four candidate genes were predicted. KASP analysis demonstrated that BraA07g039390.3C was the target gene of the candidates. BraA07g039390.3C is a homologous to Arabidopsis CLV1 encoding receptor kinase with an extracellular leucine-rich domain. Sequencing analysis revealed that a single SNP from G to A occurred in 904th nucleotide of Brclv1, which resulted in the change of the 302nd amino acid from Asp to Asn. The SNP was co-segregated with the mutant phenotype in F₂ individuals and located on the conserved domains. These results indicated that BrCLV1 was the mutant gene for slm which led to shortening leaves and increasing leaf numbers, disrupting the leafy heading formation in FT. These findings contribute to revealing the BrCLV1 function in leafy head formation in Chinese cabbage. Full article

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

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19 pages, 1523 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Alleviation Effects of Biostimulants Application on Lettuce Plants Grown under Deficit Irrigation

by Christina Chaski and Spyridon A. Petropoulos

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111089 - 17 Nov 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3160

Abstract

Τhe aim of this study was to examine the potential of using biostimulants for the amelioration of deficit irrigation effects on field-grown lettuce plants growth parameters (cv. Doris (Romaine type) and cv. Manchester (Batavia type)). Therefore, five biostimulatory products that differed in their [...] Read more.

Τhe aim of this study was to examine the potential of using biostimulants for the amelioration of deficit irrigation effects on field-grown lettuce plants growth parameters (cv. Doris (Romaine type) and cv. Manchester (Batavia type)). Therefore, five biostimulatory products that differed in their composition were evaluated, including seaweed extracts, amino acids, humic and fulvic acids, macronutrients, Si, and vegetable proteins, while a control treatment with no biostimulants applied on plants was also considered. Plants were subjected to three irrigation regimes, e.g., rain-fed plants (RF), deficit irrigation (I1; 50% of field capacity) and normal irrigation (I2; 100 of field capacity). The results indicate that the application of seaweed extracts, macronutrients, and amino acids (SW treatment) alleviated the negative effects of deficit irrigation on plant growth and chlorophyll content of Romaine-type plants. On the other hand, Batavia-type plants were more susceptible to water stress, since the highest crop yield plant was observed under the full irrigation treatment and the application of vegetal proteins and amino acids (VP treatment). In general, the application of biostimulants on the Romaine type improved plant growth under water shortage conditions compared with fully irrigated plants in almost all measurements, whereas the Batavia-type plants appeared to be more sensitive to deficit irrigation. Therefore, the ecofriendly practices of deficit irrigation and biostimulant application could be useful in leafy vegetable production on a genotype-depended manner. Full article

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

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21 pages, 4815 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Prevention and Control of Fusarium spp., the Causal Agents of Onion (Allium cepa) Basal Rot

by Ofir Degani, Elhanan Dimant, Asaf Gordani, Shaul Graph and Eliyahu Margalit

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111071 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 8258

Abstract

Fusarium basal rot disease (FBR) is considered a serious threat to commercial onion production in Israel and worldwide. Today, coping means applied in Israel against the disease have limited efficiency and include a four-year crop cycle and disinfecting the soil with metam sodium. [...] Read more.

Fusarium basal rot disease (FBR) is considered a serious threat to commercial onion production in Israel and worldwide. Today, coping means applied in Israel against the disease have limited efficiency and include a four-year crop cycle and disinfecting the soil with metam sodium. At the same time, agricultural tools (harrows, plows, etc.), contaminated equipment and workers facilitate spread of the disease to new growth areas, and the field disease incidence in Israel now reaches 8% of yields in heavily infected areas. Infected onions do not always show disease symptoms and the problem worsens if they arrive at storage facilities, especially since this pathogen genus produces known toxins. The current study aims at examining the potential of chemical control to reduce the damage caused by this disease. To this end, nine commercial fungicides were scanned in plate sensitivity assay against the main pathogens involved, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae and Fusarium acutatum. Several fungicides were found to be highly effective against the two pathogens, especially the mixtures Azoxystrobin + Difenoconazole, Fluopyram + Trifloxystrobin, or the Fluazinam compounds. Three selected preparations previously tested in seedlings were evaluated here in a full growing season. Prochloraz successfully protected the Orlando variety (white onion, Riverside cv.) and the Noam variety (red onion) at all growth stages against F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae. At the same time, this treatment was ineffective against F. acutatum in Noam cv. Another anti-fungal preparation, Fludioxonil + Sedaxen mixture, showed a wider range of effectiveness at the season’s end against the two Fusarium species tested in both onion cultivars. These results are an important step towards developing FBR control in commercial onion fields. Follow-up work is needed to optimize the pesticides’ concentrations and their application methods and to test them on a field scale. Interestingly, these pathogens were more aggressive towards the cultivar from which they were isolated: F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae to the red onion Noam cv. and F. acutatum to the white Orlando cv. Infecting the plants with both pathogens reduced disease symptoms in the white Orlando cv, suggesting antagonistic interactions in this onion genotype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetable and Fruit Postharvest Physiology and Diseases)

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18 pages, 4815 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

State of the Art and Elucidation of Postharvest LED Lighting on the Metabolism of Brassica Sprouts

by Lorena Martínez-Zamora, Noelia Castillejo, Marina Cano-Lamadrid and Francisco Artés-Hernández

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111065 - 13 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2585

Abstract

Brassicaceae sprouts are important sources of vitamins, phenolic compounds, minerals, glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates. LEDs illumination have been demonstrated to increase yield and the phytochemical content of young plants. In the present work, rocket, radish, and tatsoi seeds were germinated in darkness for 7 [...] Read more.

Brassicaceae sprouts are important sources of vitamins, phenolic compounds, minerals, glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates. LEDs illumination have been demonstrated to increase yield and the phytochemical content of young plants. In the present work, rocket, radish, and tatsoi seeds were germinated in darkness for 7 days at 20 °C and 90% RH. After harvesting, sprouts were stored for 5 days at 5 °C under different LEDs treatments: White, Blue, Green, Orange, and Red. Darkness was used as control. The respiration rate and the sulforaphane content were monitored as a reference of the primary and secondary metabolism changes to evaluate the influence of LEDs. The application of Blue and Green LEDs increased the CO₂ emission by ~25–45% compared to Darkness while no C₂H₄ emission was detected. The biosynthesis of sulforaphane was also increased by ~15–25%, under different wavelengths, although a clear tendency was not found among species. The state of the art of this research field was reviewed to elucidate the knowledge on it. Conclusively, the primary and secondary metabolism of plants, specifically in sprouts, can be stimulated using postharvest LED lighting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Quality and Safety of Fresh and Fresh-Cut Produce)

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16 pages, 8580 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Establishment of a Mutant Library of Fragaria nilgerrensis Schlechtendal ex J. Gay via EMS Mutagenesis

by Shu Jiang, Mingqian Wang, Can Zhao, Yuchen Cui, Zhi Cai, Jun Zhao, Yang Zheng, Li Xue and Jiajun Lei

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111061 - 12 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2796

Abstract

The diploid wild strawberry Fragaria nilgerrensis Schlechtendal ex J. Gay mainly distributed in Southwest China has many excellent traits and a small genome. A high-quality genome of F. nilgerrensis is available, but functional genomic research remains scarce. In the present study, to promote [...] Read more.

The diploid wild strawberry Fragaria nilgerrensis Schlechtendal ex J. Gay mainly distributed in Southwest China has many excellent traits and a small genome. A high-quality genome of F. nilgerrensis is available, but functional genomic research remains scarce. In the present study, to promote functional genomic research of F. nilgerrensis, ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) was used to mutagenize the apical meristems, and the appropriate EMS mutagenesis dosages were screened. After treatment of 1200 apical meristems with 0.6% EMS for 6 h, a mutant library consisting of 86 mutant individuals, which were characterized by 17 mutant types, with a mutation rate of 7.17% was established. The characteristics of mutants included changes in the color, shape, number and size of leaves, and the architecture of flower and plant. The obtained mutants were identified by morphological appearance, botanical indexes, chlorophyll, photosynthetic fluorescence assays, root-tip chromosome, and flow cytometry observation. These mutants can provide great resources for gene functional research and future breeding of F. nilgerrensis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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14 pages, 3767 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characteristics of Organic Phosphorus Pool in Soil of Typical Agriculture Systems in South China

by Tong Li, Jianwu Yao, Ruikun Zeng, Yong Chen, Lijiang Hu, Mengyao Zou and Jianfeng Ning

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111055 - 9 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2471

Abstract

Organic phosphorus (P) is an important potential source of plant P nutrition in agro-ecosystems. It was hypothesized that the soil organic P pools were distinguished one from another by different land-utilization patterns. A total of 38 sites were sampled, to clarify the organic [...] Read more.

Organic phosphorus (P) is an important potential source of plant P nutrition in agro-ecosystems. It was hypothesized that the soil organic P pools were distinguished one from another by different land-utilization patterns. A total of 38 sites were sampled, to clarify the organic P pool and its distribution in paddy fields, vegetable fields, and orchards. Soil organic P fractions, including labile organic P (LOP), moderately labile organic P (MLOP), moderately resistant organic P (MROP) and highly resistant organic P (HROP) were examined. Results showed that the soil total P (TP) and available P (AP) concentration have enhanced by 138% and 1559%, respectively, over the last four decades. The soil total organic P (TOP) accounted for 21.4% of the TP pool. Soil MLOP dominated the organic P reservoir, irrespective of land-planting pattern. Soil organic P fractions ranked as MLOP > MROP > HROP > LOP. The highest accumulations of TP, AP and TOP were in the vegetable fields, followed by orchards and paddy fields. The vegetable fields had higher LOP and MLOP levels than those of the paddy fields and orchards, whereas the paddy fields exhibited higher concentrations of MROP, and HROP. Soil pH, organic matter and available nitrogen all contributed to the buildup of the organic P pool. It was suggested that soil organic P should be considered preferentially in the management of the plant P nutrient in regional planting systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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16 pages, 2783 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Contribution of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Emitted by Petals and Pollen to the Scent of Garden Roses

by Matteo Caser and Valentina Scariot

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111049 - 8 Nov 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5069

Abstract

Flower scent is an important trait of ornamental roses and has been an important character in the selection processes. In the present study, the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by both petals and pollen of 21 garden roses (Chinensis, Climber, [...] Read more.

Flower scent is an important trait of ornamental roses and has been an important character in the selection processes. In the present study, the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by both petals and pollen of 21 garden roses (Chinensis, Climber, English rose, Floribunda, Hybrid Tea, Multiflora, Damascena, Musk rose, Polyantha, Rugosa and Shrub) was investigated through the GC-MS Static Headspace method. A total of 19 different VOCs were detected, and for each identified compound, an odorant description was included. In petals, the most common VOCs were 2-phenylethanol, methyl eugenol, and hexanal, present in 95%, 86% and 86% of garden roses, respectively. While, in pollen were methyl eugenol, methyl-1-butanol, and hexanal (present in 100%, 95%, and 90% of the genotypes, respectively), even if in lower content. The comparison between the petals and pollen profile shown that, even with less quantity, the main compounds characterizing the scent of the studied roses are present both in the petals and in the pollen (19 and 17 compounds, respectively), with different magnitude. Overall, the content of VOCs emitted by petals was more than five times higher than that produced by pollen. Different and characteristic VOCs profiles were emitted by petals and pollen of the studied garden roses. Full article

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

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27 pages, 3814 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Volatile Profiles of Vidal Grapes in the Shangri-La High-Altitude Region during On-Vine Non-Destructive Dehydration

by Qing-Fang Xu, Liang Fan, Kai-Xiang Lu, Dong-Mei Zhao, Ming-Xia Zhang and Jian Cai

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111029 - 3 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2198

Abstract

Both free and glycosidically bound forms of volatile compounds in Vidal grapes from the Shangri-La high-altitude region during the on-vine non-destructive dehydration process were investigated by headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), following which the data were processed by [...] Read more.

Both free and glycosidically bound forms of volatile compounds in Vidal grapes from the Shangri-La high-altitude region during the on-vine non-destructive dehydration process were investigated by headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), following which the data were processed by multivariate statistical analysis. Fatty-acid-derived volatiles (FADs), amino-acid-derived volatiles (AADs), and isoprene-derived volatiles (IPDs), which occurred mainly in bound forms, were the three major volatiles in dehydrated Vidal grapes. Water-loss concentration, biosynthesis, and biodegradation all occurred during dehydration, eventually modifying some volatiles significantly, especially some powerful odorants such as hexanal, trans-2-hexenal, 2-phenethyl acetate, β-myrcene, linalool, geraniol, cis-rose oxide, and β-damascenone. 1-Octen-3-ol was relatively stable during the non-destructive on-vine dehydration process and its content in grape juice was mainly determined by the concentration effect. 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, 2-phenethyl acetate, 2-methyl-1-propanol, and hexanol were screened as some of the most important metabolic markers to discriminate grapes at different dehydration degrees. Our study also highlights the fundamental importance of the expression of volatile content in the metabolomic study of grape berries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Berry Crop Flavoromics, Secondary Metabolism and Regulation)

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13 pages, 332 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Study of Primary and Secondary Metabolites of Stenospermocarpic, Parthenocarpic and Seeded Raisin Varieties

by Ozkan Kaya, Fadime Ates, Zeki Kara, Metin Turan and Gastón Gutiérrez-Gamboa

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111030 - 3 Nov 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2292

Abstract

(1) Background: Stenospermocarpic (Sultani Çekirdeksiz and Black Kishmish), parthenocarpic (Black Corinth), and seeded varieties (Ekşi Kara and Gök Üzüm) are used for raisin production. To our knowledge, there is little available information about the biochemical characteristics of raisins produced from these varieties. (2) [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Stenospermocarpic (Sultani Çekirdeksiz and Black Kishmish), parthenocarpic (Black Corinth), and seeded varieties (Ekşi Kara and Gök Üzüm) are used for raisin production. To our knowledge, there is little available information about the biochemical characteristics of raisins produced from these varieties. (2) Methods: Some metabolites, such as hormones, sugars, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, including enzymatic activity, were determined in different raisin varieties. (3) Results: Seedless raisin varieties presented higher content of several hormones, vitamins, and minerals, as antioxidant capacity than the raisins produced from seeded varieties. Contrary to this, seeded raisin varieties presented higher contents of most measured sugars and amino acids than the raisins produced from seedless varieties. (4) Conclusions: Biological mechanisms of pollination and fertilization induced modifications in the primary and secondary metabolism of grapes, considerably affecting biochemical compounds and the antioxidant capacity of raisins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Primary Production and Processing in Viticulture)

15 pages, 1714 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Using Sigmoid Growth Models to Simulate Greenhouse Tomato Growth and Development

by Shih-Lun Fang, Yu-Hsien Kuo, Le Kang, Chu-Chung Chen, Chih-Yu Hsieh, Min-Hwi Yao and Bo-Jein Kuo

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111021 - 2 Nov 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5158

Abstract

Mathematical modeling has been used to describe the characteristics of crop growth. Establishing a growth model can help to better understand the responses of crops to their environment and improve the efficiency of agricultural production. This study establishes empirical growth models to predict [...] Read more.

Mathematical modeling has been used to describe the characteristics of crop growth. Establishing a growth model can help to better understand the responses of crops to their environment and improve the efficiency of agricultural production. This study establishes empirical growth models to predict the growth of greenhouse tomato. In this study, we collected beef tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. ‘993′) growth data over two crop seasons in Taiwan and established growth models by employing the commonly used Gompertz and Logistic curves. Days after transplanting (DAT) and growing degree-days (GDD) were introduced as independent variables and their relationships with five traits, i.e., plant height, leaf area index, stem dry matter, leaves dry matter, and fruits dry matter were determined. The performances of GDD models were slightly better than those of the DAT models. In addition, we inferred five critical points with biological meaning based on the proposed growth models. The critical points estimated by the Logistic model are closer to our expectation than those of the Gompertz model, and they were applicable for the ‘993′ tomato in Taiwan. These results can be used to predict tomato growth and adjust the fieldwork schedule to improve the efficiency of the greenhouse production of tomatoes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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14 pages, 1951 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Relative Cleanability and Sanitization of Blueberry Mechanical Harvester Surfaces

by Renee M. Holland, Laurel L. Dunn, Jinru Chen, Himabindu Gazula, Jonathan E. Oliver and Harald Scherm

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111017 - 1 Nov 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1975

Abstract

Berry crops are increasingly being harvested mechanically to reduce labor costs, but there is a lack of research on best practices for cleaning and sanitizing of mechanical harvesters to maintain proper food hygiene. Laboratory experiments were conducted with surface coupons cut from materials [...] Read more.

Berry crops are increasingly being harvested mechanically to reduce labor costs, but there is a lack of research on best practices for cleaning and sanitizing of mechanical harvesters to maintain proper food hygiene. Laboratory experiments were conducted with surface coupons cut from materials commonly used on blueberry harvesters, including polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, aluminum, extruded polycarbonate, acetal plastic, and stainless steel. Surfaces differed in their hydrophobicity and surface roughness, ranging from 0.04 µm for polycarbonate to 1.57 µm for acetal plastic. The relative cleanability of the surface coupons was assessed by determining the removal of an applied mock soil (dried blueberry puree) in a rinsing-shaking assay with distilled water at room temperature. Results showed that the amount of soil removed increased over time according to a negative exponential function, from 29.6% at 30 s to 40.3% at 240 s rinse time. Compared with the time effect, the differences in soil removal among surfaces were relatively small. The addition of cleaning agents and detergents did not improve soil removal, and the only treatment that removed significantly more soil than the water control was heated (50 °C) distilled water. In sanitization assays, three representative microorganisms were allowed to attach to surface coupons, then exposed to three different sanitizers (0.25% bleach with 200 ppm free-chlorine sodium hypochlorite, 0.30% SaniDate 5.0, or 1.0% No-Rinse Food Contact Cleaner Sanitizer). There was no significant surface effect on microbial reductions following sanitizer treatment. For Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, none of the sanitizers significantly reduced population densities below the water control. In contrast, surface populations of Rhodoturula mucilaginosa and Epicoccum nigrum were reduced significantly by all three sanitizers, with SaniDate (23.0% hydrogen peroxide + 5.3% peroxyacetic acid) resulting in the greatest reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogen Control Strategies for Pre-/Post-harvest of Horticultural Plants and the Application of the Plant-Derived Substances for Microbial Risk Management)

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11 pages, 3411 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Altered brassinolide sensitivity1 Regulates Fruit Size in Association with Phytohormones Modulation in Tomato

by Muhammad Ali Mumtaz, Fangman Li, Xingyu Zhang, Jinbao Tao, Pingfei Ge, Ying Wang, Yaru Wang, Wenxian Gai, Haiqiang Dong and Yuyang Zhang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111008 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2315

Abstract

BRs (Brassinosteroids) regulate many essential pathways related to growth, cell elongation, cell expansion, plant architecture, and fruit development. The potential exogenous application of BR-derivatives has been proven to stimulate plant growth and development, including quality attributes of fruits, whereas its biosynthesis inhibition has [...] Read more.

BRs (Brassinosteroids) regulate many essential pathways related to growth, cell elongation, cell expansion, plant architecture, and fruit development. The potential exogenous application of BR-derivatives has been proven to stimulate plant growth and development, including quality attributes of fruits, whereas its biosynthesis inhibition has shown the opposite effect. In this study, BR-insensitive tomato mutants were used to reveal the potential function of BR signaling in the regulation of fruit development to elaborate the regulatory mechanism of BR signaling in tomato fruits. The BR-signaling mutant exhibited a typical dwarf phenotype and reduced vegetative growth, fruit size, and weight. Microscopic and transcriptional evaluation of the abs1 mutant fruits implies that reduced cell size and number are responsible for the phenotypic variations. Additionally, we also found that the altered content of phytohormones, such as auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, and ethylene levels, contributed to altered fruit development. Moreover, fruit growth and cell development-specific gene expression levels were downregulated in BR-insensitive plants; culminating in reduced cell size, cell number, and cell layers. These findings provide insight into physio-chemical changes during fruit development in response to BR-insensitivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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10 pages, 507 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Machine Learning Deciphers Genotype and Ammonium as Key Factors for the Micropropagation of Bryophyllum sp. Medicinal Plants

by Eva Lozano-Milo, Mariana Landin, Pedro Pablo Gallego and Pascual García-Pérez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8110987 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2124

Abstract

Bryophyllum constitutes a subgenus of succulent plants that have been widely employed worldwide in traditional medicine. Micropropagation is required to optimize their growth and reproduction for biotechnological purposes. The mineral composition of culture media is usually an underestimated factor in the design of [...] Read more.

Bryophyllum constitutes a subgenus of succulent plants that have been widely employed worldwide in traditional medicine. Micropropagation is required to optimize their growth and reproduction for biotechnological purposes. The mineral composition of culture media is usually an underestimated factor in the design of the in vitro culture protocols of medicinal plants. Universal and highly cited media mineral formulations, such as the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, are generally employed in plant tissue culture studies, although they cause physiological disorders due to their imbalanced mineral composition. In this work, neurofuzzy logic is proposed as a machine-learning-based tool to decipher the key factors (genotype, number of subcultures, and macronutrients) that are involved in the establishment of the Bryophyllum sp. in vitro culture. The results show that genotype played a key role, as it impacts both vegetative growth and asexual reproduction in all of the species that were studied. In addition, ammonium was identified as a significant factor, as concentrations above 15 mM promote a negative effect on vegetative growth and reproduction. These findings should be considered as the starting point for optimizing the establishment of the in vitro culture of Bryophyllum species, with large-scale applications as biofactories of health-promoting compounds, such as polyphenols and bufadienolides. Full article

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18 pages, 3925 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genome-Wide Identification, Cloning and Expression Profile of RanBP2-Type Zinc Finger Protein Genes in Tomato

by Yanna Gao, Ning Li, Jiaojiao Ruan, Ying Li, Xiaoli Liao and Changxian Yang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8110985 - 23 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2135

Abstract

The RanBP2-type zinc finger (RBZ) protein genes, which are well-characterized in animals, are involved in the regulation of mRNA processing. Although they are diversely distributed in plants, their functions still remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of [...] Read more.

The RanBP2-type zinc finger (RBZ) protein genes, which are well-characterized in animals, are involved in the regulation of mRNA processing. Although they are diversely distributed in plants, their functions still remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of 22 RBZ genes in tomato. The gene structure analysis revealed that the SlRBZ genes have 2 to 17 exons. SlRBZ proteins contain typical conserved domains, including Motif 1 or Motif 2, or a combination of Motif 9 and Motif 4. Two paralogous pairs were identified in the tomato. Segmental duplication possibly contributed to the expansion of the SlRBZ genes in tomato. Interestingly, the SlRBZ15 gene generated four products, yielded by alternative splicing. A cis-regulatory element analysis revealed that SlRBZ genes might be involved in the complex regulatory networks during plant growth and development. The expression profiles of the SlRBZ genes were analyzed in different tissues using eight phytohormones and four abiotic stress treatments based on RNA sequencing data and qRT-PCR verification. The results showed that each gene responded differently to more than one phytohormone or abiotic stress type. This research provides a foundation for future functional research on SlRBZ genes in tomato. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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15 pages, 1290 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Biostimulant Application on Plant Growth, Chlorophylls and Hydrophilic Antioxidant Activity of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Grown under Saline Stress

by Christophe El-Nakhel, Eugenio Cozzolino, Lucia Ottaiano, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Sabrina Nocerino, Maria Eleonora Pelosi, Youssef Rouphael, Mauro Mori and Ida Di Mola

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100971 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6852

Abstract

Irrigated agricultural lands are prone to salinity problems which may imperil horticultural crops by reducing growth, yield and even qualitative traits. Eco-friendly approaches such as biostimulant application and in particular protein hydrolysates from vegetal origin are implemented to mitigate salinity stress effects on [...] Read more.

Irrigated agricultural lands are prone to salinity problems which may imperil horticultural crops by reducing growth, yield and even qualitative traits. Eco-friendly approaches such as biostimulant application and in particular protein hydrolysates from vegetal origin are implemented to mitigate salinity stress effects on crops. For this reason, a greenhouse experiment on spinach irrigated with increasing concentrations of saline water (EC = 3 dS m⁻¹ (EC3), 6 dS m⁻¹ (EC6) and 9 dS m⁻¹ (EC9), in addition to non-saline treatment (EC0)) was organized, while plants were subjected to foliar applications of a protein hydrolysate from vegetal origin on a weekly basis. The application of this biostimulant helped mitigate the adverse effects of saline stress, by increasing the SPAD index and total chlorophylls of spinach plants. Yield was significantly boosted under biostimulant treatment in saline conditions and reached the value obtained in control treatment (no biostimulants added) × EC0 in the case of EC 3 and 6 dS m⁻¹. In addition, the number of leaves and plants m⁻¹ was increased under biostimulant treatment, and most importantly the hydrophilic antioxidant activity of spinach, thus a qualitative aspect of great importance was also increased. Such results increase the knowledge on the effects of protein hydrolysates application on an important leafy vegetable and may help growers mitigate saline conditions and maintain high crop yield and high quality of the final product when no other source of irrigation water is available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biostimulants and Plant Elicitors to Mitigate the Effect of Biotic and Abiotic Stress)

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14 pages, 2241 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Molybdenum Fertilizer Combined with Bacillus subtilis Strain on the Growth of Chinese Cabbage and the Content of Nitrate in Soil

by Yao Ma, Siwen Zhang, Jiawei Hu, Shiyong Chen and Juanjuan Wang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100970 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2353

Abstract

With increasing nitrogen application in soil, the problem of nitrate accumulation in soil and vegetable bodies has become increasingly serious. In this study, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) Strain11 was isolated and studied for its effects in combination with Molybdenum (Mo) on [...] Read more.

With increasing nitrogen application in soil, the problem of nitrate accumulation in soil and vegetable bodies has become increasingly serious. In this study, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) Strain11 was isolated and studied for its effects in combination with Molybdenum (Mo) on the growth of Chinese cabbage and soil nitrate content. The results showed that the strain effectively increased the growth, height, and moisture content of Chinese cabbage by 27% and 2.5%, respectively, compared to the control. Mo application alone reduced soil nitrate accumulation and increased root length, height, chlorophyll content, and moisture content of Chinese cabbage, with an optimal rate of 0.8–1.2 mg/kg soil. The application of Mo fertilizer in combination with the Bacillus strain was the most effective in increasing plant height and root length of Chinese cabbage, which were 1.49 times and 1.68 times that of the control, respectively. The proportion of dry matter, the average fresh weight, and the dry weight under this treatment were 9.01%, 5.83 g/plant, and 0.53 g/plant, respectively, higher than the rest. At harvest, the highest ammonium-nitrogen content in this treatment group was 8.56 mg/kg, and the soil nitrate reduction reached 40.68%. In conclusion, Mo fertilizer at a rate of 0.8 mg Mo/kg soil, in combination with B. subtilis Strain11, was recommended for the remediation of nitrate-contaminated soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 4505 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transfer of Self-Fruitfulness to Cultivated Almond from Peach and Wild Almond

by Thomas M. Gradziel

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100965 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3240

Abstract

The almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] is normally self-sterile, requiring orchard placement of pollinizer cultivars and insect pollinators. Honeybees are the primary insect pollinators utilized, but climate change and the higher frequency of extreme weather events have reduced their availability to [...] Read more.

The almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] is normally self-sterile, requiring orchard placement of pollinizer cultivars and insect pollinators. Honeybees are the primary insect pollinators utilized, but climate change and the higher frequency of extreme weather events have reduced their availability to levels insufficient to meet the demands of current and anticipated almond acreage. The incorporation of self-fruitfulness may eliminate the need for both pollinizers and pollinators and allow the planting of single cultivar orchards that facilitate orchard management and reduce agrochemical inputs. Self-fruitfulness requires self-compatibility of self-pollen tube growth to fertilization, as well as a high level of consistent self-pollination or autogamy over the range of anticipated bloom environments. The Italian cultivar Tuono has been the sole source of self-compatibility for breeding programs world-wide, leading to high levels of inbreeding in current almond improvement programs. Both self-compatibility and autogamy have been successfully transferred to commercial almonds from cultivated peaches (Prunus persica L.), as well as wild peach and almond species. Self-compatibility was inherited as a novel major gene, but was also influenced by modifiers. Molecular markers developed for one species source often failed to function for other species’ sources. Autogamy was inherited as a quantitative trait. Breeding barriers were more severe in the early stages of trait introgression, but rapidly diminished by the second to third backcross. Increasing kernel size, which was similarly inherited as a quantitative trait, was a major regulator of the introgression rate. Self-fruitfulness, along with good commercial performance of tree and nut traits, was recovered from different species sources, including Prunus mira, Prunus webbii, P. persica, and the P. webbii-derived Italian cultivar Tuono. Differences in expression of self-fruitfulness were observed, particularly during field selection at the early growth stages. Introgression of self-fruitfulness from these diverse sources also enriched overall breeding germplasm, allowing the introduction of useful traits that are not accessible within traditional germplasm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Nut Crop Genetics and Germplasm Diversity)

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14 pages, 2045 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Yield, Antioxidant Activity and Total Polyphenol Content of Okra Fruits Grown in Slovak Republic

by Júlia Fabianová, Miroslav Šlosár, Tomáš Kopta, Andrea Vargová, Mária Timoracká, Ivana Mezeyová and Alena Andrejiová

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100966 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4347

Abstract

Climate change, linked with an increase in temperature, contributes to the possibility growing of non-typical and lesser-known vegetable species in the Slovak Republic, including okra. Seven okra cultivars were tested as part of this study, which focused on the basic yield parameters, antioxidant [...] Read more.

Climate change, linked with an increase in temperature, contributes to the possibility growing of non-typical and lesser-known vegetable species in the Slovak Republic, including okra. Seven okra cultivars were tested as part of this study, which focused on the basic yield parameters, antioxidant activity and total polyphenol content in okra fruits. The statistical analysis of obtained results revealed significant differences in all monitored parameters of okra. The selection of “plastic” crop cultivars that can produce a steadier yield in each growing year is required due to the significant climate variations between growing seasons. In this regard, the okra cultivar ‘Baby Bubba’ can be recommended. The results also showed the high antioxidant activity and polyphenol content of okra pulp and seeds. Okra has a higher nutritional quality than other vegetable species frequently grown in the Slovak Republic. Okra cultivars ‘Burgundy’, ‘Pure Luck F1′ and ‘Jing Orange’ can be suggested from a nutritional perspective. Finally, it is possible to state that okra cultivars showed good yield potential and nutritional quality compared to the studies realized in countries in which okra is known and commonly used by the human population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Fruits and Vegetables: Analysis and Biological Activities)

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12 pages, 1783 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Harvest Date on Temporal Cannabinoid and Biomass Production in the Floral Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Cultivars BaOx and Cherry Wine

by Eric R. Linder, Sierra Young, Xu Li, Shannon Henriquez Inoa and David H Suchoff

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100959 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6566

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to model the temporal accumulation of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in field-grown floral hemp in North Carolina and establish harvest timing recommendations to minimize non-compliant crop production. Field trials were conducted in 2020 and 2021 with [...] Read more.

The objectives of this study were to model the temporal accumulation of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in field-grown floral hemp in North Carolina and establish harvest timing recommendations to minimize non-compliant crop production. Field trials were conducted in 2020 and 2021 with BaOx and Cherry Wine cultivars. Harvest events started two weeks after floral initiation and occurred every two weeks for 12 weeks. Per-plant threshed biomass accumulation exhibited a linear plateau trend. The best fit model for temporal accumulation of THC was a beta growth curve. As harvest date was delayed, total THC concentrations increased until concentrations reached their maximum, then decreased as plants approached senescence. Logistic regression was the best fit model for temporal accumulation of CBD. CBD concentrations increased with later harvest dates. Unlike THC concentrations, there was no decline in total CBD concentrations. To minimize risk, growers should test their crop as early as possible within the USDA’s 30-day compliance window. We observed ‘BaOx’ and ‘Cherry Wine’ exceeding the compliance threshold 50 and 41 days after flower initiation, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops)

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15 pages, 6032 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Functional Analysis of Glucose-6-Phosphate Translocator PoGPT1 in Embryogenic Callus Formation of Tree Peony

by Yinglong Song, Wenqian Shang, Zheng Wang, Songlin He, Yuke Sun, Liyun Shi, Yuxiao Shen and Dan He

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100957 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2229

Abstract

Tree peony (Paeonia ostii) is an ornamental flowering plant that is generally recalcitrant to establishment of a mature somatic embryo regeneration system in vitro. Glucose-6-phosphate translocator (GPT) plays an important regulatory role in embryogenesis of plants. In this study, PoGPT1 was [...] Read more.

Tree peony (Paeonia ostii) is an ornamental flowering plant that is generally recalcitrant to establishment of a mature somatic embryo regeneration system in vitro. Glucose-6-phosphate translocator (GPT) plays an important regulatory role in embryogenesis of plants. In this study, PoGPT1 was cloned, and a bioinformatic analysis and functional verification of the gene were performed. The results showed that PoGPT1 encoded a polypeptide of 392 amino acids, which was a basic non-secreted hydrophobic transmembrane protein, and was mainly localized in the plastids. PoGPT1 was highly expressed in tree peony leaves, and its transcript abundance increased with the progression of zygotic embryo development. Overexpression of PoGPT1 caused up-regulation of leafy cotyledon 1 (PoLEC1), somatic embryogenesis receptor-like kinase (PoSERK), and agamous-like15 (PoAGL15) in tree peony callus. In addition, PoGPT1 overexpression promoted the increase in indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 5-deoxystrigol (5DS), and brassinolide (BL) contents, especially of IAA, but reduced the contents of abscisic acid (ABA), 6-benzyladenosine (BARP), and 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid (ACC). The present research showed that PoGPT1 synergistically regulated the contents of endogenous hormones and expression levels of embryogenesis-related genes to promote the embryonic development of tree peony. The results provide theoretical and technical support for the establishment of a tree peony embryogenic callus formation and subsequent research on somatic embryogenesis. Full article

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

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15 pages, 2101 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A New Promising Plant Defense Stimulator Derived from a By-Product of Agar Extraction from Gelidium sesquipedale

by Rromir Koçi, Fabrice Dupuy, Salim Lebbar, Vincent Gloaguen and Céline Faugeron Girard

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100958 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2627

Abstract

Stimulation of plant defenses by elicitors is an alternative strategy to reduce pesticide use. In this study, we examined the elicitor properties of a by-product of the industrial extraction of agar from the red alga Gelidium sesquipedale. Agar extraction process leads to [...] Read more.

Stimulation of plant defenses by elicitors is an alternative strategy to reduce pesticide use. In this study, we examined the elicitor properties of a by-product of the industrial extraction of agar from the red alga Gelidium sesquipedale. Agar extraction process leads to the formation of an alkaline residue which is poorly valorized. This by-product has been analyzed for its chemical composition. It contains 44% minerals and, among the organic compounds, sugars are the most represented and encompass 12.5% of the dry matter. When sprayed on tomato plants, this by-product enhanced the levels of defense markers such as peroxidase or phenylalanine ammonia lyase activities. Furthermore, this treatment increased the expression levels of the pathogenesis-related gene, PR9 encoding peroxidase. A field trial conducted on grapevine revealed that spraying treatment with this by-product resulted in a reduction of the macroscopic disease symptoms induced by Plasmospora viticola, with 40 to 60% efficacy. These results indicate that this agar extraction by-product could be used as a plant defense stimulator. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Control Strategies of Plant Pathogens in Horticulture)

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12 pages, 1754 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

High Nitrogen Fertilization Decreases Seed Weight but Increases Longevity in Tomato Seeds

by Javier Sánchez, Francisco Albornoz and Samuel Contreras

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100942 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1984

Abstract

Nitrogen fertilization is a key practice in agriculture and its effects on yield and quality of most commodity products are widely known. However, the response of seed production to N fertilization, especially with regard to its effects on seed quality, is still poorly [...] Read more.

Nitrogen fertilization is a key practice in agriculture and its effects on yield and quality of most commodity products are widely known. However, the response of seed production to N fertilization, especially with regard to its effects on seed quality, is still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of N fertilization on tomato seed yield and quality. Six quality attributes were assessed (weight, standard germination, germination rate under normal and adverse conditions, dormancy and longevity) in tomato cv. Moneymaker plants fertigated with one of three nutrient solutions differing in their N concentration: 5, 15 or 25 mM. Seed weight decreased by 4% with increasing N fertilization while standard germination and mean germination time did not vary among treatments, with average values of 89.7% and 6.2 days, respectively. The percentage and rate of germination decreased when seeds were imbibed in solutions with reduced osmotic potential; however, this effect was less pronounced in seeds from the 25 mM treatment, indicating a lower dormancy. When germination was evaluated after accelerated aging, seeds from the high N fertilization treatment showed greater longevity. These results contribute to optimizing fertilization practices for the production of high quality tomato seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies and Practices of Fertilization Management of Horticultural Crops)

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17 pages, 1741 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Anti-Insect Activities of Jasminum grandiflorum Essential Oil

by Lucia Galovičová, Natália Čmiková, Nenad Vukovic, Milena Vukic, Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski, Ladislav Bakay and Miroslava Kačániová

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100953 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6455

Abstract

The essential oil of Jasminum grandiflorum has very good biological activity. The present study aimed to analyze the chemical composition and biological activity of J. grandiflorum. The main constituents of J. grandiflorum essential oil were benzyl acetate (37%), benzyl benzoate (34.7%) and [...] Read more.

The essential oil of Jasminum grandiflorum has very good biological activity. The present study aimed to analyze the chemical composition and biological activity of J. grandiflorum. The main constituents of J. grandiflorum essential oil were benzyl acetate (37%), benzyl benzoate (34.7%) and linalool (9.6%). The antioxidant activity was 58.47%, which corresponds to 220.93 TEAC. The antimicrobial activity was weak to moderate, with inhibition zones ranging from 2.33 to 5.33 mm. The lowest MIC value was against Candida glabrata. The antimicrobial activity of the vapor phase of the essential oil was significantly stronger than that of the contact application. Biofilm analysis using a MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper showed changes in the protein profile of Pseudomonas fluorescens that confirmed the inhibitory effect of J. grandiflorum. The insecticidal potential of the essential oil against Oxycarenus lavatera and Brassicogethes aeneus was also demonstrated. Due to the properties of J. grandiflorum essential oil, it could find application as a biofilm control agent for the shelf-life extension and storage of fruits and vegetables and as a possible insecticidal agent. Full article

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

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14 pages, 2617 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The SlSWEET12c Sugar Transporter Promotes Sucrose Unloading and Metabolism in Ripening Tomato Fruits

by Jiaqi Sun, Chaoyang Feng, Xin Liu and Jing Jiang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100935 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3394

Abstract

Sugar content is a primary determinant of taste and quality in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit. Sugar allocation from source to sink is dependent on the activity of plasma membrane sugar transporters and is a critical process in plant development. Sugar will [...] Read more.

Sugar content is a primary determinant of taste and quality in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit. Sugar allocation from source to sink is dependent on the activity of plasma membrane sugar transporters and is a critical process in plant development. Sugar will eventually be exported transporters (SWEETs) are sugar transporters that play key roles in plant biology, including growth and development. However, few studies have been conducted on the tomato SWEET protein family to date. Through gene expression analysis, we found that SlSWEET12c had the highest expression during the red ripening stage of tomato fruits. Yeast functional complementation, subcellular localization, and GUS activity assays showed that SlSWEET12c is a plasma membrane-localized sugar transporter that accumulates in the vascular bundles, carpel, and sarcocarp. Silencing SlSWEET12c increased sucrose accumulation and reduced the number of hexoses in tomato fruits; the opposite effects were observed under SISWEET12c overexpression. Invertase activity was also decreased after silencing SISWEET12c. These results suggest that SlSWEET12c is a sugar transporter that promotes sucrose unloading and metabolism in ripening tomato fruits, offering a new target for improving tomato quality and production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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23 pages, 2218 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tomato Landraces May Benefit from Protected Production—Evaluation on Phytochemicals

by Anna Divéky-Ertsey, Márta Ladányi, Barbara Biró, Mónika Máté, Dóra Drexler, Ferenc Tóth, Krisztina Boziné Pullai, Attila Gere, Péter Pusztai and László Csambalik

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100937 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2024

Abstract

Plant genetic resources (PGRs) serving as a wide genetic pool of tomato germplasm can provide a solid base for recent breeding efforts to increase consumer acceptance towards the taste and the phytonutrient properties of novel tomato varieties. Old varieties and landraces were abandoned [...] Read more.

Plant genetic resources (PGRs) serving as a wide genetic pool of tomato germplasm can provide a solid base for recent breeding efforts to increase consumer acceptance towards the taste and the phytonutrient properties of novel tomato varieties. Old varieties and landraces were abandoned by producers due to unfavorable phenotypic characteristics; however, their high adaptability and nutritional properties are inevitably valuable. This study aims to investigate the impact of open-field vs. protected production on various bioactive compound parameters and on the antioxidant status of seven indeterminate-type tomato PGRs in an organic production system for two years (2015–2016). Genotype main effect plus genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplots were created for visualizing the which-won-where concept of the PGRs investigated. The GGE analysis revealed that the phytonutrient content of certain PGRs is less dependent on location and more influenced by differences in microclimatic conditions. “Balatonboglár”, “Mátrafüred” and “Fadd” PGRs performed better in a polytunnel, while Tarnaméra provided better results in an open field. “Máriapócs” and “San Marzano” showed a relative independence from production location in terms of their measured phytonutrient values. These findings enrich the nutritional datasets of tomato landraces, which support the in situ conservation and utilization of PGRs in breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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