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Horticulturae
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Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants
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Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants

A special issue of Horticulturae (ISSN 2311-7524). This special issue belongs to the section "Processed Horticultural Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 March 2026) | Viewed by 13355

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Mariana Cecilia Grohar

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Interests: metabolites; taxonomy; agronomy; fruticulture
Dr. Jerneja Jakopič

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Agronomy, Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Interests: fruit quality; postharvest physiology; fruit crops production; plant physiology; food chemistry; food quality; vegetable production; anthocyanins; apple; horticulture research

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The current changes in global climate conditions present challenges for the production of horticultural plants. Additionally, consumers are also becoming more selective regarding food quality and safety. Current trends suggest that consumers seek the greatest possible variety of species and cultivars, fresh and locally grown food, and a healthy choice of foods with a favorable carbon footprint.

In this context, a deep understanding of plants' biochemical processes is becoming increasingly important, not only because they constitute the plant's response system to the environment, but also because they determine the intrinsic qualities that make the plant acceptable to the consumer, such as their flavor, which comprises taste and aroma. New technological measures during plant growth, harvest, storage, transportation, and commercialization should strive towards the optimization and improvement of the product's safety and flavor, without compromising the yield.

The focus of this Special Issue, entitled "Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants", encompasses the relationships between the following topics:

  • New methods or novel identifications and quantifications of flavor markers of horticultural plants;
  • Metabolic pathways that determine primary and secondary metabolites;
  • Technology improvements (biostimulants, nutrition, pruning, rotation, and soil improvements, among others) that influence flavor biochemistry;
  • Variations in soluble or volatile flavor markers during ripening or storage;
  • Influence of pedoclimatic conditions on flavor markers;
  • Consumer perceptions of the quality of products obtained by different technological approaches.

Contributions regarding fruits, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental plants are welcome in this Special Issue. Potential authors are invited to submit original research articles, review articles, opinion papers, and short communications.

Dr. Mariana Cecilia Grohar
Dr. Jerneja Jakopič
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Horticulturae is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • fruits
  • vegetables
  • primary metabolites
  • secondary metabolites
  • volatile compounds

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

16 pages, 1230 KB  
Article
Impact of Environmental Factors, Farming Practices, and Genetic Diversity on Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) Yield and Quality
by Roberto Marceddu, Ombretta Marconi, Alessandra Carrubba, Mercedes Verdeguer, Mauro Sarno and Vincenzo Alfeo
Horticulturae 2026, 12(3), 338; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12030338 - 11 Mar 2026
Viewed by 553
Abstract
This study explores how extreme heat, farm design, and genotype interact to shape the growth, yield, and quality of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in semi-arid Mediterranean environments, supporting climate-resilient expansion of high-value specialty crops beyond traditional production regions. Field performance of Cascade [...] Read more.
This study explores how extreme heat, farm design, and genotype interact to shape the growth, yield, and quality of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in semi-arid Mediterranean environments, supporting climate-resilient expansion of high-value specialty crops beyond traditional production regions. Field performance of Cascade and Chinook was evaluated across contrasting management settings in inland Sicily during the 2023 growing season. Microclimatic observations from the Sicilian Agrometeorological Information Service (SIAS) were coupled with the quantitative heat-stress indicator Extra Degree Days (EDD) to link thermal exposure to phenology and quality outcomes. Results suggest that hop performance under semi-arid Mediterranean conditions is shaped by cultivar choice and management-defined environments, with cone yield and, especially, resin and essential oil traits varying across trellis and soil cover settings. Using phase-specific heat exposure as an interpretable indicator of thermal pressure, this study provides a decision-oriented framework to relate heat conditions to phenology and quality outcomes and to support the selection of cultivar–management combinations suited to heat-prone regions. Overall, the findings inform climate-smart hop management strategies to sustain cone quality amid increasing temperature variability in semi-arid environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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16 pages, 2749 KB  
Article
Nutrient Value, Productivity, and Quality Parameters of Organically Grown Red Beet (Beta vulgaris L. var. conditiva Alef.)
by Rasa Karklelienė, Audrius Radzevičius, Pranas Viškelis, Viktorija Vaštakaitė-Kairienė and Danguolė Juškevičienė
Horticulturae 2026, 12(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae12010055 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 868
Abstract
Investigations were conducted in the crop rotation experimental field at the Institute of Horticulture of the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry from 2021 to 2023. Our research aims to evaluate the biological properties and productivity parameters of different red beet cultivars, [...] Read more.
Investigations were conducted in the crop rotation experimental field at the Institute of Horticulture of the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry from 2021 to 2023. Our research aims to evaluate the biological properties and productivity parameters of different red beet cultivars, grown organically. The Lithuanian cultivar ‘Joniai’ and four foreign cultivars ‘Kestrel’ H, ‘Bona’, ‘Wodan’ H, and ‘Action’ H were tested. Genetically different cultivars were evaluated and selected for improved biochemical composition and taste. The total yield of red beets during the experimental years ranged from 55.7 to 63.0 t ha−1, and the marketability ranged from 70.2% to 85.5%. The high amount of total sugar was obtained from cultivar ‘Kestrel’ H (10.55%) and ‘Joniai’ (10.12%). The highest betalain content was observed in the cultivar ‘Joniai’ (1482 mg kg−1) and the lowest in the hybrid ‘Action’ (748.5 mg kg−1). The least nitrate amount was determined in ‘Kestrel’ H and ‘Joniai’ (up to 677.3 mg kg−1). The study showed that red beets ‘Wodan’ H and ‘Action’ H are distinguished by their ability to produce high marketable yields of 52.7 and 53.9 t ha−1, respectively. The results showed that organically grown red beets ‘Kestrel’ H and ‘Joniai’ in Lithuanian climate conditions have the best biochemical composition and can be recommended for fresh consumption and the processing industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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14 pages, 2457 KB  
Article
Drying and Storage Influence the Formation of Key Aromatic Constituents in Blue Fenugreek (Trigonella caerulea)
by Thomas Stegemann, Mayra Galarza Pérez, Alessia Castellan, Susanne Klocke, Dietrich Ober, Manuel Pramsohler and Serhat Sezai Çiçek
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101164 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 793
Abstract
The dried herb of blue fenugreek is used as a spice in the alpine region for the preparation of traditional bread and cheese. After drying, the herb is stored for a period of six to twelve months. During this time, the herb is [...] Read more.
The dried herb of blue fenugreek is used as a spice in the alpine region for the preparation of traditional bread and cheese. After drying, the herb is stored for a period of six to twelve months. During this time, the herb is expected to undergo changes in the compositions of the major flavor- and odor-determining compounds. To identify eventual biochemical processes, we applied different growing (conventional and sterile) and drying (air- and freeze drying) conditions and subsequently conducted periodical analysis of key aroma constituents (α-keto acids and volatile compounds) by LC-MS and GC-MS. The amount of glyoxylic acid was drastically increased in the air-dried sample, while the freeze-dried sample showed significantly higher amounts of α-keto-glutaric acid and pyruvic acid, respectively. During storage, a decrease in sulfuric compounds and an increase in alkane aldehydes were observed when comparing conventional and sterile samples. However, this increase was even greater for monoterpenes (especially camphor and p-cymene), showing thrice as high amounts after storage. Interestingly, both compounds were only formed significantly during the storage under conventional conditions, indicating that their production is induced/caused by microbial organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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Graphical abstract

16 pages, 933 KB  
Article
Storage Morphological and Biochemical Performance of Highbush Blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) Grown Under Photoselective Nets
by Mariana Cecilia Grohar, Eva Indihar, Tea Burin, Robert Veberic, Jerneja Jakopic and Tina Smrke
Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070713 - 20 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1545
Abstract
The use of photoselective nets has gained interest in highbush blueberry production systems in recent years. Although some work has been conducted on their effects on the growth and development of the fruit, the performance of fruit grown under those nets after harvest [...] Read more.
The use of photoselective nets has gained interest in highbush blueberry production systems in recent years. Although some work has been conducted on their effects on the growth and development of the fruit, the performance of fruit grown under those nets after harvest has not been addressed yet. Here we focus on the performance of fruit grown under photoselective nets (exclusion, red, yellow, black) during long cold storage for the first time. The experiment was performed in two different years, monitoring morphological parameters, as well as primary and secondary metabolites using HPLC-MS and GC-MS. Minimal differences between treatments were noticed in fruit color, firmness and total soluble solids contents (TSS). In terms of fruit metabolism, two different periods were described during storage, with an inflection point at 14 days; in the first period, an increase in sugar content and a decrease in volatile content was observed, while after that, we found the opposite behavior. Overall, fruit grown under red nets showed the highest retention of secondary metabolites and the highest sugar/organic ratio, probably associated with a higher antioxidant capacity promoted by an increased red light proportion during the growth season. On the other hand, yellow nets showed the least favorable storage performance, as the light quality did not significantly improve the metabolism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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32 pages, 8849 KB  
Article
A Comprehensive Morphological, Biochemical, and Sensory Study of Traditional and Modern Apple Cultivars
by Paula A. Morariu, Andruța E. Mureșan, Adriana F. Sestras, Anda E. Tanislav, Catalina Dan, Eugenia Mareși, Mădălina Militaru, Vlad Mureșan and Radu E. Sestras
Horticulturae 2025, 11(3), 264; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11030264 - 1 Mar 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5356
Abstract
Apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) represent one of the most widely cultivated and consumed fruits globally, with significant genetic diversity among cultivars. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological, biochemical, and organoleptic characteristics of 34 apple cultivars, including ancient Romanian varieties, internationally old [...] Read more.
Apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) represent one of the most widely cultivated and consumed fruits globally, with significant genetic diversity among cultivars. This study aimed to evaluate the morphological, biochemical, and organoleptic characteristics of 34 apple cultivars, including ancient Romanian varieties, internationally old and modern cultivars, and new selections. The assessment was conducted to identify valuable traits for breeding programs and commercial applications. Morphological analysis revealed significant variation in fruit size, shape, and weight, with international ‘classic’ cultivars exhibiting larger dimensions on average. Biochemical profiling indicated notable differences in moisture content, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, and carotenoid levels, with some traditional cultivars demonstrating high nutritional potential. Texture analysis showed variations in peel hardness, flesh firmness, and toughness, influencing storage capacity and consumer preference. Organoleptic evaluations highlighted the superior sensory attributes of cultivars such as ‘Golden Orange’, ‘Jonathan’, ‘Kaltherer Böhmer’, and ‘Golden Delicious’, which ranked highest in terms of taste, aroma, and juiciness. Statistical analyses, including principal component and hierarchical clustering analyses, further distinguished cultivars based on their physicochemical and sensory profiles. The findings emphasize the importance of genetic diversity in apples in maintaining a resilient and sustainable assortment. This study provides valuable insights for breeding programs and for orchard, market, and apple industry development. We also highlight future directions, promoting the conservation and strategic use of both traditional and modern cultivars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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16 pages, 5403 KB  
Article
In Vitro and Molecular Docking Studies of Antiglycation Potential of Phenolic Compounds in Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Fruit: Exploring Local Varieties in the Food Industry
by Abdoussadeq Ouamnina, Abderrahim Alahyane, Imane Elateri, Mourad Ouhammou and Mohamed Abderrazik
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 657; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060657 - 20 Jun 2024
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3350
Abstract
The Moroccan date-growing sector is rich in a wide diversity of varieties but faces major challenges, notably the undervaluation of certain varieties intended mainly for animal feed. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the antiglycation activity of four date varieties, including [...] Read more.
The Moroccan date-growing sector is rich in a wide diversity of varieties but faces major challenges, notably the undervaluation of certain varieties intended mainly for animal feed. In this study, our objective was to evaluate the antiglycation activity of four date varieties, including three low-market-value varieties and one high-market-value variety, harvested during two seasons (2021 and 2022). In addition, to improve our knowledge of the antiglycation potential, molecular docking analyses were carried out. The results of the antiglycation activity of the date extracts showed strong activity, particularly for the ‘Khalt Khal’ variety, which showed a 50% inhibition concentration (IC50) of 1.83 mg/mL and 2 mg/mL in 2021 and 2022, respectively. In addition, the molecular docking analysis also showed the possible link between the bioactive compounds identified and their mechanisms of action. Our findings suggest new evidence for the antiglycation properties of the bioactive compounds present in dates. These results suggest the use of these varieties as a source of bioactive molecules or as a food additive. This could make it possible to create medicines or food products with a high commercial value using dates, which could help to treat the complications associated with glycation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Flavor Biochemistry of Horticultural Plants)
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