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22 pages, 3368 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Biostimulants on Drought Tolerance of Greenhouse-Grown Tomato

by Kalliopi I. Kadoglidou, Eleni Anthimidou, Konstantinos Krommydas, Eleni Papa, Eleftherios Karapatzak, Nektaria Tsivelika, Maria Irakli, Ifigeneia Mellidou, Aliki Xanthopoulou and Apostolos Kalivas

Horticulturae 2025, 11(6), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11060601 - 28 May 2025

Viewed by 525

Abstract

The use of biostimulants is one of the recognized strategies for mitigating the adverse effects of drought on crops. In a greenhouse tomato experiment, the effect of two biostimulants in combination with three levels of drought was investigated. Specifically, the doses of 150 [...] Read more.

The use of biostimulants is one of the recognized strategies for mitigating the adverse effects of drought on crops. In a greenhouse tomato experiment, the effect of two biostimulants in combination with three levels of drought was investigated. Specifically, the doses of 150 mL and 1000 g ha⁻¹ of a plant-derived polyhydroxy acids extract (B1) and a Sargassum seaweed extract (B2), respectively, were studied in combination with drought levels of 85, 63.75, and 42.5% of field capacity. Four applications were performed during key growth stages. The effects were comprehensively investigated by assessing agronomic and physiological traits of the plants at three defined time points during the experimental period. Furthermore, organoleptic characteristics, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity in the fruits, and overall yield components were evaluated. Drought stress provoked a consistent negative impact on several physiological traits, such as stomatal conductance (up to −58.3%), net photosynthesis (up to −47.9%), and quantum yield. A comparable impact was observed on agronomic traits, such as plant height, stem thickness, and number of leaves, with reductions of up to 13.6%. Both biostimulants’ applications enhanced certain physiological features across all irrigation levels, including net photosynthesis by up to 44.3% and chlorophyll content index by up to 33.4%, while B2 further increased intrinsic water use efficiency by up to 42.9% compared to the respective controls. However, this trend was not reflected in the evaluated post-harvest parameters, such as fruit yield, fruit number, fruit weight, and quality indices. These findings suggest that biostimulants may have a supporting role in physiological responses under drought stress but have limited effects on fruit production. Future research should focus on optimizing the formulation, dosage, and timing of biostimulant applications, as these factors may be critical to enhancing plant tolerance to drought stress and improving fruit yield responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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13 pages, 1051 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tomato Production with Organic Fertilizer from Soluble Bonito Fish Waste in Hydroponic Cultivation Systems

by Dannisa Fathiya Rachma, Kazuya Maeda, Yuta Yamanouchi, Hiroshi Ueda, Makoto Shinohara and Dong-Hyuk Ahn

Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040381 - 2 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 870

Abstract

Using organic fertilizer made from waste materials is beneficial for both the economy and the environment, promoting sustainability and reducing pollution. In hydroponics, decomposition converts these materials into fertilizer, with multiple parallel mineralization (MPM) enabling efficient nutrient conversion by microorganisms. The tomato cultivar [...] Read more.

Using organic fertilizer made from waste materials is beneficial for both the economy and the environment, promoting sustainability and reducing pollution. In hydroponics, decomposition converts these materials into fertilizer, with multiple parallel mineralization (MPM) enabling efficient nutrient conversion by microorganisms. The tomato cultivar “Momotaro Next” was cultivated hydroponically in order to determine whether organic fertilizer derived from soluble bonito fish waste (OF) through MPM could be used in tomato hydroponic cultivation compared with a chemical nutrient solution treatment (CF). In this study, ammonium (NH₄⁺) was generated through the OF decomposition process. During cultivation, the ammonium concentration tended to increase, while the nitrate (NO₃⁻) concentration tended to decrease. The total yield (TY), total dry matter (TDM), and leaf area index (LAI) were lower after OF treatment than after CF treatment. Notably, the TY, TDM, and LAI were 5.4 kg m⁻², 594 g plant⁻¹, and 1.7 for OF and 6.8 kg m⁻², 895 g plant⁻¹, and 3.8 for CF, respectively. The results of the tomato fruit qualities show no significant differences for total soluble solids (TSS) (%Brix), lycopene, glucose, fructose, or sucrose. However, significant differences were observed for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), glutamate, aspartate, and citric acid. The lower yield and quality of the tomato crop with the OF treatment were caused by the high concentration of NH₄⁺ that occurred during cultivation due to a nonoptimal mineralization process. Therefore, a well-managed MPM process could improve crop quality by reducing the risk of high NH₄⁺. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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13 pages, 4030 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lentil Biorooting Agents: An Ecological Alternative to Improve the Growth and Development of Italian Zucchini in Sustainable Production Systems

by Uriel González-Lemus, Félix Antonio Tapia-Zayago, Sergio Rubén Pérez-Ríos, Ana Karen Zaldívar-Ortega, Edgar Omar Rueda-Puente, Aracely Hernández-Pérez, Lucio González-Montiel and Iridiam Hernández-Soto

Horticulturae 2025, 11(3), 332; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11030332 - 19 Mar 2025

Viewed by 576

Abstract

Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) is a crop of global economic importance. Therefore, there has been a continuous search for alternative cultivation methods that contribute to improving its growth and development. In the context of sustainable agriculture, plant protection techniques involve the use [...] Read more.

Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo L.) is a crop of global economic importance. Therefore, there has been a continuous search for alternative cultivation methods that contribute to improving its growth and development. In the context of sustainable agriculture, plant protection techniques involve the use of substances of natural origin (e.g., biorooters), which have a positive impact on the production cycle of plants. In this study, the effects of a lentil biorooter on the growth and development of Italian zucchini were investigated. Five treatments were analyzed in the study: 25 (T1), 50 (T2) and 75 (T3) mL of the biorooter; a chemical rooting agent (“Raixen PLUS ©”; T4); and a control (T0). The results showed that the application of the lentil biorooter (T3) increased the plant height by 166%, the number of leaves by 113%, the aerial fresh weight by 169%, the root length by 165%, the fresh and dry root weights by 102% and 116%, and the number of flowers and female flowers by 89% and 177%, respectively, compared to the control (T0). In the case of the conventional rooting agent “Raixen PLUS ©” T4, compared to (T3), the following agro-nomic variables were reduced: plant height by 13%; the number of leaves by 124%; fresh and dry aerial weight by 103% and 107%, respectively; fresh and dry root weight by 9% and 117%, respectively; and the number of total and female flowers by 112% and 160%, respectively. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to compare the heights of the plant between the five treatments, as well as to compare the number of leaves to the fresh aerial weight and the length of the root to its fresh weight. Furthermore, the principal component analysis (PCA) results indicated that the differences between components 1 and 2 appeared to be positively influenced by the root length. These results suggest that lentil biorooters could be an ecological alternative to conventional rooters, thus mitigating the adverse effects of their use in zucchini crop production. This is the first study to report on the induction of growth and development using a lentil biorooter in zucchini. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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13 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Sustainable Biostimulators on Yield and Phytochemical Traits of Bottle Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria L.)

by Abd-Allah Gahory, Wagdi Saber Soliman, Rofayda Sayed, Ahmed M. Abbas and Sabri Salaheldin

Horticulturae 2025, 11(3), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11030299 - 10 Mar 2025

Viewed by 875

Abstract

Lagenaria siceraria is a nutritionally and medicinally important crop. Biostimulants offer a sustainable alternative to agrochemicals, yet their effects on bottle gourd remain largely unexplored. This study was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2021 and 2022) under open-field conditions. The aim was to [...] Read more.

Lagenaria siceraria is a nutritionally and medicinally important crop. Biostimulants offer a sustainable alternative to agrochemicals, yet their effects on bottle gourd remain largely unexplored. This study was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2021 and 2022) under open-field conditions. The aim was to evaluate the impact of eco-friendly biostimulants—salicylic acid (SA), humic acid (HA), and seaweed extract (SW)—on the growth, yield, and phytochemical composition of bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria). A randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement was implemented, including ten treatments with three concentrations of SA, HA, and SW, alongside a control. The results demonstrated that these sustainable growth enhancers significantly improved plant growth parameters. The application of 1.2 g L⁻¹ HA produced the longest plants with the highest leaf and flower number, while fruit traits such as length and diameter were notably enhanced by the 3 mL L⁻¹ SW and 0.8 g L⁻¹ SA treatments. Fruit and seed dry weights were also significantly increased, with the 2 mL L⁻¹ SW and 0.16 g L⁻¹ SA treatments yielding the heaviest fruits, and the 3 mL L⁻¹ SW treatment leading to the highest seed dry weight per fruit. Higher concentrations of SA, HA, and SW, particularly 3 mL L⁻¹ SW, resulted in significant increases in total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. Additionally, biostimulant treatments influenced fixed oil content and composition, with variations in fatty acid profiles. GC analysis identified 21 compounds, with linoleic acid as the dominant fatty acid, reaching its highest concentration under the 1 mL L⁻¹ SW treatment. These findings highlight the potential of sustainable biostimulants in enhancing the productivity and nutritional quality of bottle gourd, supporting the adoption of organic and eco-friendly farming practices in open-field vegetable production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

14 pages, 245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Sowing Date and Humic Acid Application on Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Growth, Yield, and Essential Oil Composition

by Ahmed Samy, Said S. Soliman, Sayed S. A. Abdel-Rahman, Wagdi S. Soliman and Ahmed M. Abbas

Horticulturae 2025, 11(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11010018 - 30 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 821

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of varying sowing dates and concentrations of humic acid (HA) on the growth, yield, and essential oil profile of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) across two consecutive growing seasons (2020/2021 and 2021/2022). The experiment was carried out at [...] Read more.

This study investigated the impact of varying sowing dates and concentrations of humic acid (HA) on the growth, yield, and essential oil profile of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) across two consecutive growing seasons (2020/2021 and 2021/2022). The experiment was carried out at Aswan University’s Agricultural Experimental Farm in Egypt, utilizing a split-plot design with three sowing dates (15th October, 1st November, and 15th November) along with four HA concentrations (0, 2.5, 3.75, and 5 kg ha⁻¹). The results revealed that early sowing on 15th October and enrichment with 5 kg ha⁻¹ of HA significantly enhanced plant height, stem diameter, branch number, umbels per plant, and fruit yield. The highest fruit yield (2684 kg ha⁻¹) and essential oil yield (27.3 L ha⁻¹) were obtained from plants sown on 15th October and treated with 5 kg ha⁻¹ HA. Moreover, the essential oil composition was notably affected, with significant increases in the concentration of anethole, estragole, and other critical compounds under the same treatment. Conversely, delayed sowing reduced both the yield and oil content. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing sowing dates and HA application rates to maximize fennel’s yield and essential oil quality, particularly in arid regions. The findings of this study offer practical guidance for optimizing fennel cultivation in arid regions by integrating early sowing dates and humic acid applications, which can significantly enhance yield and essential oil quality. These insights are particularly valuable for the medicinal and aromatic plant industries, supporting sustainable agriculture and improving the commercial viability of fennel production under climate-challenged conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

13 pages, 1382 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fish Emulsions, Cyano-Fertilizer, and Seaweed Extracts Affect Bell Pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) Plant Architecture, Yield, and Fruit Quality

by Allison Wickham and Jessica G. Davis

Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050491 - 10 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3242

Abstract

Bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) were grown in a greenhouse to evaluate organic fertilizer and foliar seaweed application effects on plant architecture, yield, and fruit quality. Many organic fertilizers contain phytohormones intrinsically. Hydrolyzed and non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer and cyano-fertilizer treatments were applied [...] Read more.

Bell peppers (Capsicum annuum) were grown in a greenhouse to evaluate organic fertilizer and foliar seaweed application effects on plant architecture, yield, and fruit quality. Many organic fertilizers contain phytohormones intrinsically. Hydrolyzed and non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer and cyano-fertilizer treatments were applied in split applications every 7 days over a 135-day growing period. Control plants received no supplemental N. Each fertilizer treatment received applications of one of two different foliar seaweeds or no foliar seaweed in a 4 × 3 factorial design with three replications. Both hydrolyzed and non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizers and cyano-fertilizer increased the number of branches per plant compared to the N-deficient control. The plants receiving cyano-fertilizer or non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer yielded more than the N-deficient control, and those treatments received 2–3 times the auxin application as the hydrolyzed fish fertilizer. In addition, the leaves from the plants treated with non-hydrolyzed fish fertilizer contained substantially higher levels of abscisic acid, although no abscisic acid was detected in the fertilizers. Both seaweed products decreased the number of fruits that were “bell”-shaped and increased the number of “long”-shaped fruits. Organic fertilizers are complex matrices of nutrients, phytohormones, and other metabolites, making it very challenging to determine the mechanisms behind the observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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13 pages, 12487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using Bokashi and Cow Urine as Organic Low-Cost Amendments Can Enhance Arugula (Eruca sativa L.) Agronomic Traits but Not Always Total Polyphenols and Antioxidant Activity

by Fernando Teruhiko Hata, Diego Contiero da Silva, Natália Norika Yassunaka Hata, Michelle da Silva Pavinatto, Mariana Assis de Queiroz Cancian, Rogério Barbosa Macedo, Maurício Ursi Ventura, Juliano Tadeu Vilela de Resende and Wilma Aparecida Spinosa

Horticulturae 2024, 10(2), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10020155 - 7 Feb 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2062

Abstract

Productive traits, total polyphenols (TPC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH) of arugula submitted to the combination (or not) of cow urine and doses of bokashi were evaluated in two experimental areas. Arugula was planted in cultivation bags with 55 dm³ of capacity in [...] Read more.

Productive traits, total polyphenols (TPC), and antioxidant activity (DPPH) of arugula submitted to the combination (or not) of cow urine and doses of bokashi were evaluated in two experimental areas. Arugula was planted in cultivation bags with 55 dm³ of capacity in protected cultivation. The treatments were bokashi doses (0, 10, 20, and 30 g) and use (or not) of cow urine diluted 1% in water. The variables evaluated were fresh leaf biomass (FLB), dry leaf biomass (DLM), plant height (PH), chlorophyll index, TPC, and DPPH. In area 1, all agronomic variables were increased at 30 g and 20 g bokashi doses. FLB was increased by 87 and 76% with 30 g of bokashi. Cow urine only increased PH. In area 2, the use of bokashi + cow urine increased FLB, DLB, and PH with a positive quadratic response. At the maximum point, the FLB was increased by 159% with 28.92 g of bokashi. Bokashi increased FLB and DLB in the two areas in all evaluated doses. For TPC, with the use of cow urine, 10 g of bokashi increased TPC by 14%. Without the use of cow urine, increases of 17 and 33% with 10 and 30 g of bokashi were observed. The 30 g of bokashi is recommended because of increased productive traits and TPC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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18 pages, 1775 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Different Temperature Control Systems in Tropical-Adapted Greenhouses for Green Romaine Lettuce Production

by Niracha Kumsong, Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Phanawan Imorachorn, Preuk Chutimanukul, Nuttaporn Pimpha, Theerayut Toojinda, Opas Trithaveesak, Eakkarach Ratanaudomphisut, Amporn Poyai, Charndet Hruanun, Suwan Yanuwong, Wanchai Pakhamin, Chaiwiwat Kayoontammarong, Maliwan Janpeng and Hiroshi Ehara

Horticulturae 2023, 9(12), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9121255 - 22 Nov 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4040

Abstract

The cultivation of lettuce in greenhouses is negatively impacted by high temperatures, especially in hot climates. Therefore, developing an efficient method to regulate the internal temperature of greenhouses is essential to sustain crop productivity throughout the year. This study intends to investigate differential [...] Read more.

The cultivation of lettuce in greenhouses is negatively impacted by high temperatures, especially in hot climates. Therefore, developing an efficient method to regulate the internal temperature of greenhouses is essential to sustain crop productivity throughout the year. This study intends to investigate differential temperature control systems for green romaine lettuce production in the greenhouse. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD) with five replications. The four treatments consisted of (1) control, (2) Fogging + ventilation fan, (3) Fogging + shading, and (4) Fogging + ventilation fan + shading. The different temperature control systems influenced the growth and yield parameters, in which shading operation appears to cause reductions in photosynthetic rate, leading to declines of marketable fresh weight. However, the operation of the fogging and ventilation fan was considered the appropriate method for improving indoor air temperature since this resulted in higher growth and yield and a greater sensory evaluation. Maintaining VPD values between 1.62 and 1.76 kPa and controlling light intensity within the 530–700 mol m⁻² s⁻¹ range were recommended to ensure a consistent lettuce yield of 65–82 g plant⁻¹ throughout the year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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20 pages, 2242 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

GIS-Facilitated Germination of Stored Seeds from Five Wild-Growing Populations of Campanula pelviformis Lam. and Fertilization Effects on Growth, Nutrients, Phenol Content and Antioxidant Potential

by Ioannis Anestis, Elias Pipinis, Stefanos Kostas, Evgenia Papaioannou, Eleftherios Karapatzak, Eleftherios Dariotis, Parthena Tsoulpha, Emmanouil Koundourakis, Eleni Chatzileontari, Georgios Tsoktouridis, Stefanos Hatzilazarou and Nikos Krigas

Horticulturae 2023, 9(8), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9080877 - 2 Aug 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1800

Abstract

This study was designed to bridge extant research gaps regarding the vulnerable and protected local endemic Campanula pelviformis, a wild edible green traditionally consumed in Crete (Greece) with agro-alimentary and medicinal interest as well as ornamental value. The C. pelviformis ecological profile [...] Read more.

This study was designed to bridge extant research gaps regarding the vulnerable and protected local endemic Campanula pelviformis, a wild edible green traditionally consumed in Crete (Greece) with agro-alimentary and medicinal interest as well as ornamental value. The C. pelviformis ecological profile was generated using the climate and temperature conditions prevailing in its wild habitats through mapping of natural distribution linked with online bioclimatic databases in geographical information systems. We tested the germination of seeds from five wild-growing populations at four different temperatures (10, 15, 20 and 25 °C) and under different light conditions (light/dark and darkness), and we performed fertilization trails [integrated nutrient management (INF), chemical fertilization (ChFe), control] examining morphological and physiological characteristics, above- and below-ground macro- and micronutrients and phenol contents, as well as their antioxidant capacity. We found population and temperature effects on seed germination with their interaction being statistically significant. Campanula pelviformis germinated better at 10 and 15 °C (>85% for all populations) with no preference on light conditions (98.75% and 95% in light and dark conditions). The INF application increased root dry mass, chlorophyll content index and chlorophyll fluorescence compared to other treatments and was beneficial for macro- and micronutrient concentrations in above-ground parts compared to previously studied wild-growing material, while below-ground parts were positively impacted by both fertilization types. Total phenols and antioxidant capacity were both increased by ChFe fertilization. The data furnished herein permitted the re-evaluation and upgrade of its sustainable exploitation potential in different economic sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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17 pages, 1358 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Agricultural and Food Wastes as the Growing Media for Sunflower and Water Spinach Microgreens Production

by Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Nipawadee Sukree, Preuk Chutimanukul, Dusit Athinuwat, Wilawan Chuaboon, Phakpen Poomipan, Vorapat Vachirayagorn, Nuttaporn Pimpha, Panita Chutimanukul and Hiroshi Ehara

Horticulturae 2023, 9(8), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9080876 - 1 Aug 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4146

Abstract

The growing media is one of the significant elements affecting microgreens’ yield and quality. This experiment investigated the possibility of waste utilization instead of employing peat moss to produce sunflower and water-spinach microgreens. The treatments consisted of peat moss (Control), coconut coir dust [...] Read more.

The growing media is one of the significant elements affecting microgreens’ yield and quality. This experiment investigated the possibility of waste utilization instead of employing peat moss to produce sunflower and water-spinach microgreens. The treatments consisted of peat moss (Control), coconut coir dust (CD), leaf compost (LC), food waste compost (FC), CD:LC = 1:1 v/v, CD:FC = 1:1 v/v, LC:FC = 1:1 v/v, and CD:LC:FC = 1:1:1 v/v. The results proved that the highest yield of sunflower microgreens was observed when cultivated in 1:1 v/v of CD:LC media (10,114.81 g m⁻²), whereas the highest yield of water spinach microgreens was recorded under the treatments of CD, Control, 1:1 v/v of CD:LC, and 1:1:1 v/v of CD:LC:FC media (10,966.67–9800.00 g m⁻²). The biochemical composition of the microgreens varied within the types. Our findings demonstrated that a tendency of an increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents depended on the growth of both microgreens under different growing media. All growing media did not cause excess nitrate residue or pathogenic contamination in both microgreens, namely Clostridium perfringens, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus. In contrast, almost all the growing media resulted in a higher population of Bacillus cereus contamination in both microgreens than the standard set limit, except for sunflower microgreens grown in the control and CD growing media. These findings could suggest that the 1:1 v/v of CD:LC and CD media were the most effective growing media for sunflower and water spinach microgreens, respectively, but further cleaning before consumption is recommended to avoid or reduce the foodborne incidences caused by B. cereus in microgreens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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24 pages, 3955 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

GIS-Facilitated Seed Germination, Fertilization Effects on Growth, Nutrient and Phenol Contents and Antioxidant Potential in Three Local Endemic Plants of Crete (Greece) with Economic Interest: Implications for Conservation and Sustainable Exploitation

by Stefanos Hatzilazarou, Stefanos Kostas, Elias Pipinis, Ioannis Anestis, Evgenia Papaioannou, Vasiliki Aslanidou, Parthena Tsoulpha, Manolis Avramakis, Nikos Krigas and George Tsoktouridis

Horticulturae 2023, 9(3), 335; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9030335 - 3 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2630

Abstract

This multidisciplinary study is focused on the conservation and sustainable utilization of Lomelosia minoana (Dipsacaceae; subsp. minoana and subsp. asterusica) and Eryngium ternatum (Apiaceae), three local endemic plants of Crete (Greece) with economic interest. Using Geographical Information Systems and open-source geodatabases, detailed [...] Read more.

This multidisciplinary study is focused on the conservation and sustainable utilization of Lomelosia minoana (Dipsacaceae; subsp. minoana and subsp. asterusica) and Eryngium ternatum (Apiaceae), three local endemic plants of Crete (Greece) with economic interest. Using Geographical Information Systems and open-source geodatabases, detailed ecological profiles were compiled to illustrate the abiotic environmental conditions prevailing in their wild habitats. We examined for the first time temperature effects (10, 15, 20 and 25 °C) on seed germination and fertilization effects (INM, integrated nutrient management, and chemical fertilization compared to control) on growth parameters and nutrient content of leaves as well as their phenol content and antioxidant potential. L. minoana subsp. asterusica germinated better at 15 °C (61.25%), subsp. minoana at 10 and 15 °C (30% and 27.50%, respectively) while E. ternatum did not show significant differences. The seedling fertilization with INM resulted in 10–15-fold higher absorption of copper without toxicity compared with chemical fertilization and the control; INM was also superior to chemical fertilization in most of the macronutrients in leaves. The total phenol content and the antioxidant capacity of leaf extracts were positively affected by chemical fertilization in L. minoana subsp. minoana and E. ternatum. Both fertilization treatments almost equally affected the morphological and physiological characteristics of the examined taxa. In light of the above-mentioned and the research gaps bridged for the studied taxa, we re-evaluated and updated both the feasibility and the readiness timescale for their sustainable exploitation in economic sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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18 pages, 3505 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effects of Shading and Nutrient Management on Yield Quality of Vegetable Fern

by Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Rantiya Iad-ak and Preuk Chutimanukul

Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 259; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020259 - 15 Feb 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3239

Abstract

This study investigated the optimization of shading and organic fertilizer applications on vegetable fern growth and yield quality in order to develop guidelines for farmers interested in sustainable vegetable fern production. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design in RCBD with four [...] Read more.

This study investigated the optimization of shading and organic fertilizer applications on vegetable fern growth and yield quality in order to develop guidelines for farmers interested in sustainable vegetable fern production. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design in RCBD with four replications. There were three main plots; no shading, 75% shading, and 96% shading. The five sub-plots consisted of no fertilizer application (control), chemical fertilizer at a rate of 92.80 kg N ha⁻¹, and cow manure at rates of 92.80, 185.60, and 278.40 kg N ha⁻¹. A comparison between different shading and fertilizer treatments, combined, demonstrated that 75% shading with the application of cow manure at the rate of 185.60 kg N ha⁻¹ was the most appropriate management for vegetable fern production, with the highest marketable yield recorded (1128.54 kg ha⁻¹ month⁻¹) and a 10-fold yield increase compared to the control (no shading and no fertilizer). This treatment also resulted in good yield quality (crunchy and tender), high concentrations of chlorophyll and vitamin C, and a safe amount of nitrate accumulation for consumers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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11 pages, 1339 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Leafy Vegetables’ Agronomic Variables, Nitrate, and Bioactive Compounds Have Different Responses to Bokashi, Mineral Fertilization, and Boiled Chicken Manure

by Fernando Teruhiko Hata, Diego Contiero da Silva, Natália Norika Yassunaka-Hata, Mariana Assis de Queiroz Cancian, Isabella Accorsi Sanches, Caio Eduardo Pelizaro Poças, Maurício Ursi Ventura, Wilma Aparecida Spinosa and Rogério Barbosa Macedo

Horticulturae 2023, 9(2), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae9020194 - 2 Feb 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2681

Abstract

In the current study, the effect of boiled chicken manure (BCM) doses by fertigation, bokashi, and mineral fertilization on the agronomic variables, bioactive compounds, and nitrate levels of two cultivars of lettuce (romaine and frisée types) and one cultivar of radicchio chicory was [...] Read more.

In the current study, the effect of boiled chicken manure (BCM) doses by fertigation, bokashi, and mineral fertilization on the agronomic variables, bioactive compounds, and nitrate levels of two cultivars of lettuce (romaine and frisée types) and one cultivar of radicchio chicory was studied. Overall, higher agronomic variable values were found for the leafy plants in bokashi-fertilized plants. The BCM 5, 7.5, and 10% fertilization, in general, increased these variables in an apparent increasing trend. For chicory, bokashi presented higher means in comparison with BCM for TB, CB, and CI. For frisée lettuce, bokashi had the highest values for TB, CB, and PH. For romaine, bokashi presented the highest means for all the variables, except for PD. For bioactive compounds, each plant species responded differently when varying the fertilization source. For the nitrate content, higher values were observed in the bokashi and mineral treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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20 pages, 1342 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Assessing Physicochemical Parameters, Bioactive Profile and Antioxidant Status of Different Fruit Parts of Greek Eggplant Germplasm

by Kalliopi I. Kadoglidou, Konstantinos Krommydas, Parthenopi Ralli, Ifigeneia Mellidou, Apostolos Kalyvas and Maria Irakli

Horticulturae 2022, 8(12), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8121113 - 26 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3720

Abstract

Eggplant is an economically important vegetable with a potential for functional food production, mainly due to its high fruit antioxidant capacity. The goal of the present study was to investigate the main physicochemical and antioxidant parameters, and assess the bioactive profiles, of 19 [...] Read more.

Eggplant is an economically important vegetable with a potential for functional food production, mainly due to its high fruit antioxidant capacity. The goal of the present study was to investigate the main physicochemical and antioxidant parameters, and assess the bioactive profiles, of 19 eggplant genotypes of diverse origin, including Greek commercial varieties and hybrids, landraces and the related species S. macrocarpon. For that reason, the physicochemical traits (dry matter, pH, total soluble solids and total acidity) were assessed in the eggplant fruit and some important bioactive compounds (total phenols (TPC), total flavonoids (TFC), total monomeric anthocyanin (TAC), chlorogenic acid (CA) and its isomers neo- and crypto-CA) were assessed both in fruit pulp and peel. In addition, the antioxidant capacity was assessed according to ABTS^•+, DPPH^• and FRAP assays. The results revealed significant differences between the studied genotypes for all the evaluated traits, for both fruit parts. Solanum macrocarpon showed a distinct bioactive profile and was superior for most of the pulp traits (TFC, neo-CA, crypto-CA, ABTS^•+, DPPH^• and FRAP). Among the eggplant materials, the landrace ‘KD054/07’ had very high values for pH and some pulp traits (TPC, CA, ABTS^•+ and FRAP), while the commercial F₁ hybrid ‘Nilo’ was superior for dry matter and most of the peel traits (TPC, TFC, ABTS^•+ and FRAP). The Greek commercial variety ‘Langada’ performed well for TAC and peel CA, ABTS^•+ and FRAP, while ‘Tsakoniki’ had very high anthocyanin and pulp TPC content. These results constitute a source of information for a subset of the Greek eggplant germplasm and could contribute both to the promotion of Greek varieties of high bioactive and antioxidant value, as well as to the targeted selection of parents in breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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Current Trends in Organic Vegetable Crop Production: Practices and Techniques

by Juan A. Fernández, Miren Edurne Ayastuy, Damián Pablo Belladonna, María Micaela Comezaña, Josefina Contreras, Isabel de Maria Mourão, Luciano Orden and Roberto A. Rodríguez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100893 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 14776

Abstract

Organic farming is a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agroecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and consequently, it is an efficient and promising approach for sustainable agriculture within a circular and green economy. There has been [...] Read more.

Organic farming is a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agroecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and consequently, it is an efficient and promising approach for sustainable agriculture within a circular and green economy. There has been a rise in the consumption of organic vegetables in the last years because of their organoleptic properties, higher nutritive value and lower risk of chemical residues harmful to health. The recent scientific evidence regarding the use of the major elements responsible for organic vegetable crop production indicates plant material, soil management and crop nutrition, soil disinfection, crop management and pest, disease and weed management. These techniques are the focus of this study. In general, the main outcomes of this review demonstrate that a great effort of innovation and research has been carried out by industry, researchers and farmers in order to reduce the environmental impact of the established and innovative horticultural practices while satisfying the requirements of consumers. However, research-specific studies should be carried out in different farming systems and pedoclimatic conditions to achieve the highest efficiency of these horticultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

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