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18 pages, 3706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growth, Physiology and Nutritional Quality of C₄ Halophyte Portulaca oleracea L. Grown Aeroponically in Different Percentages of Artificial Seawater under Different Light-Emitting Diode Spectral Qualities

by Jie He, Su Yee Leng and Lin Qin

Plants 2023, 12(18), 3214; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12183214 - 8 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1522

Abstract

Edible halophyte Portulaca oleracea L., known as purslane, was grown in two percentages of artificial seawater (ASW) under two combined red (R) and blue (B) LED spectra. High salinity (40% ASW) negatively affected shoot productivity and leaf growth of purslane compared to those grown [...] Read more.

Edible halophyte Portulaca oleracea L., known as purslane, was grown in two percentages of artificial seawater (ASW) under two combined red (R) and blue (B) LED spectra. High salinity (40% ASW) negatively affected shoot productivity and leaf growth of purslane compared to those grown in 10% ASW. Photosynthetic pigment and total reduced nitrogen concentrations were significantly higher in purslane grown in 10% ASW than in 40% ASW. However, LED spectral quality did not markedly influence these parameters. Grown in 10% ASW under R/B 2.2, purslane had the highest maximum nitrate reductase activity, while those in 40% ASW under R/B 2.2 had the highest activation state. Under both light qualities, purslane had a sevenfold increase in proline concentration in 40% ASW than in 10% ASW. Total phenolic compounds’ concentration was the highest in 10% ASW under R/B 0.9, while there were no significant differences in the accumulation of total soluble sugars and ascorbic acids among all plants. Antioxidant enzymes activities were lower in 40% ASW under R/B 2.2 compared to the other conditions. In conclusion, salinity affected the yield, physiology and nutritional quality of purslane. The impacts of LED spectral quality on purslane were only reflected by certain physiological and nutritional parameters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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16 pages, 2911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Diverse Peanut Cultivars to Nano and Conventional Calcium Forms under Alkaline Sandy Soil

by Mohamed E. El-temsah, Yasser M. Abd-Elkrem, Yasser A. El-Gabry, Mohamed A. Abdelkader, Nahid A. A. Morsi, Noura M. Taha, Shaimaa H. Abd-Elrahman, Fadl A. E. Hashem, Mostafa G. Shahin, Gomaa A. Abd El-Samad, Ridha Boudiar, Cristina Silvar, Salah El-Hendawy, Elsayed Mansour and Mohamed A. Abd El-Hady

Plants 2023, 12(14), 2598; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12142598 - 9 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2077

Abstract

Calcium is one of the most limiting factors for the growth and reproduction of peanut, which ultimately affects pod and seed yields. A two-year field experiment was carried out to assess the impact of five calcium applications, including nano-calcium and conventional forms, on [...] Read more.

Calcium is one of the most limiting factors for the growth and reproduction of peanut, which ultimately affects pod and seed yields. A two-year field experiment was carried out to assess the impact of five calcium applications, including nano-calcium and conventional forms, on growth, leaf nutrient content, yield traits, and quality parameters of three diverse peanut cultivars (Ismailia-1, Giza-5, and Giza-6). The applied calcium applications were calcium sulfate, which is recommended for commercial peanut cultivation and commonly referred to as gypsum (coded as Ca-1), calcium nitrate (Ca-2), nano-calcium nitrate (Ca-3), 50% calcium nitrate + 50% nano-calcium (Ca-4), and 50% calcium sulfate + 50% nano-calcium (Ca-5). Calcium sulfate (gypsum, Ca-1) was soil-supplied during the seedbed preparation as recommended, while the other calcium applications (Ca-2, Ca-3, Ca-4, and Ca-5) were exogenously sprayed three times at 30, 45, and 60 days after sowing. The soil of the experimental site was alkaline, with a high pH of 8.6. The results revealed significant differences among cultivars, calcium applications, and their interactions. The soil-supplied gypsum Ca-1 displayed lower agronomic performance on all recorded growth, leaf nutrient content, yield traits, and quality parameters. On the other hand, the foliar-supplied calcium, particularly Ca-4 and Ca-5, displayed superior effects compared to the other simple calcium forms. Ca-4 and Ca-5 produced significantly higher seed yield (3.58 and 3.38 t/ha) than the simple recommended form (Ca-1, 2.34 t/ha). This could be due to the difficulty of calcium uptake from soil-supplied calcium under high soil pH compared to the exogenously sprayed nano-calcium form. Moreover, the superior performance of Ca-4 and Ca-5 could be caused by the mixture of fertilizers from the synergistic effect of calcium and nitrate or sulfate. Furthermore, the effect of nitrate was applied in nano form in the Ca4 and Ca-5 treatments, which contributed to improving nutrient uptake efficiency and plant growth compared to the other treatments. The peanut cultivar Giza-6 showed superiority for most measured traits over the other two cultivars. The interaction effect between the assessed cultivars and calcium applications was significant for various traits. The cultivar Giza-6 showed a significant advantage for most measured traits with the mixture of 50% calcium nitrate + 50% nano-calcium (Ca-4). Conclusively, the results pointed out the advantage of the exogenously sprayed nano-calcium form combined with calcium nitrate or calcium sulfate for promoting growth, leaf nutrient content, yield, and quality traits of peanut, particularly with high-yielding cultivars under sandy soil with high pH. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 508 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Study of the Nutritional and Chemical Composition of New Oil Rape, Safflower and Mustard Seed Varieties Developed and Grown in Serbia

by Zorica S. Stojanović, Dajana D. Uletilović, Snežana Ž. Kravić, Žarko S. Kevrešan, Nada L. Grahovac, Ivana S. Lončarević, Ana D. Đurović and Ana M. Marjanović Jeromela

Plants 2023, 12(11), 2160; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12112160 - 30 May 2023

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4008

Abstract

Oilseed crops are widely cultivated and are related to nutrition and human health as valuable nutraceutical sources with valuable biological properties. The growing demand for oil plants used in human and animal nutrition or for the processing industry has contributed to the diversification [...] Read more.

Oilseed crops are widely cultivated and are related to nutrition and human health as valuable nutraceutical sources with valuable biological properties. The growing demand for oil plants used in human and animal nutrition or for the processing industry has contributed to the diversification and development of a new variety of oil crops. Increased oil crop diversity, besides ensuring reduced sensitivity to pests and climate conditions, has also led to improved nutritional values. In order to enable oil crop cultivation to become commercially sustainable, a comprehensive characterization of newly created varieties of oilseeds, including their nutritional and chemical composition, is required. In this study, two varieties of safflower and white and black mustard were investigated as alternative oil species for nutritional parameters, mainly protein, fat, carbohydrate, moisture, ash, polyphenols, flavonoids, chlorophylls contents, acids and mineral composition, and compared with those of two different genotypes of rapeseeds as a traditional oil crop plant. The proximate analysis found that the highest oil content was found in the oil rape NS Svetlana genotype (33.23%), while the lowest was in black mustard (25.37%). The protein content varies from around 26% in safflower samples to 34.63%, determined in white mustard. High content of unsaturated fatty acids and low content of saturated fatty acid was observed in the analyzed samples. In mineral analysis, the dominant elements were phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium, in descending order. The observed oil crops are also good sources of microelements, including iron, copper, manganese and zinc, accompanied by high antioxidant activity due to the presence of significant amounts of polyphenolic and flavonoid compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 1988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ca Sprays on Fruit Ca Content and Yield of Tomato Variety Susceptible to Blossom-End Rot

by Andis Karlsons, Anita Osvalde, Gunta Cekstere and Laura Āboliņa

Plants 2023, 12(8), 1640; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12081640 - 13 Apr 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2242

Abstract

Several factors are involved in the incidence of blossom-end rot (BER) in tomato fruit, but the main one is insufficient Ca uptake and transport through the plant, resulting in Ca deficiency in the fruit. Sprays of Ca-containing products are considered to be a [...] Read more.

Several factors are involved in the incidence of blossom-end rot (BER) in tomato fruit, but the main one is insufficient Ca uptake and transport through the plant, resulting in Ca deficiency in the fruit. Sprays of Ca-containing products are considered to be a possible measure to overcome the local Ca deficiency in tomato fruit. Therefore, the main objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of additional Ca supply to tomato fruits for increasing Ca content and reducing fruit damage. Sprays of five different commercial preparations containing (Brexil Duo, Calmax Zero N, Ca(NO₃)₂, CaCl₂) or promoting (Greenstim) Ca uptake were tested using BER-sensitive large-fruit variety ‘Beorange’. The experiment was conducted in the commercial greenhouse ‘Getlini EKO’, Latvia, during the autumn–spring season of 2020/2021 under controlled conditions, eliminating the adverse impact of external factors. The results revealed that none of the preparations were effective in increasing Ca content, preventing BER, and did not promote the tomato yield. As good agricultural practices were followed in the greenhouse to manage BER, we concluded that a non-marketable yield of around 15% should be expected for ‘Beorange’ when grown under artificial light, possibly due to the impact of abiotic stresses and genetically determined susceptibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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21 pages, 3954 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Mn Deficiency on Carbon and Nitrogen Metabolism of Different Genotypes Seedlings in Maize (Zea mays L.)

by Yuzhao Tao, Changzhuang Liu, Lin Piao, Fuqiang Yang, Jiaqi Liu, Muhammad Faheem Jan and Ming Li

Plants 2023, 12(6), 1407; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061407 - 22 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2020

Abstract

Manganese deficiency critically impairs the function and stability of photosystem II (PSII) and negatively impacts crop growth and yield. However, the response mechanisms of carbon and nitrogen metabolism to Mn deficiency in different genotypes of maize and the differences in Mn deficiency tolerance [...] Read more.

Manganese deficiency critically impairs the function and stability of photosystem II (PSII) and negatively impacts crop growth and yield. However, the response mechanisms of carbon and nitrogen metabolism to Mn deficiency in different genotypes of maize and the differences in Mn deficiency tolerance are unclear. Herein, three different genotypes of maize seedlings (sensitive genotype: Mo17, tolerant genotype: B73, and B73 × Mo17) were exposed to Mn deficiency treatment for 16 days using liquid culture with different concentrations of MnSO₄ [0.00, 2.23, 11.65, and 22.30 mg/L (control)]. We found that complete Mn deficiency significantly reduced maize seedling biomass; negatively affected the photosynthetic and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters; and depressed nitrate reductase, glutamine synthetase, and glutamate synthase activity. This resulted in reduced leaf and root nitrogen uptake, with Mo17 being most severely inhibited. B73 and B73 × Mo17 maintained higher sucrose phosphate synthase and sucrose synthase activities and lower neutral convertase activity compared to Mo17, which resulted in higher accumulation of soluble sugars and sucrose and maintenance of the osmoregulation capacity of leaves, which helped mitigate damage caused by Mn deficiency. The findings revealed the physiological regulation mechanism of carbon and nitrogen metabolism in different genotypes of maize seedlings that resist Mn deficiency stress, providing a theoretical basis for developing high yield and quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 568 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phosphorus Use Efficiency of Leafy Brassica sp. Grown in Three Contrasting Soils: Growth, Enzyme Activity and Phosphorus Fractionation

by Branimir Urlić, Gvozden Dumičić, Tomislav Radić, Smiljana Goreta Ban and Marija Romić

Plants 2023, 12(6), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12061295 - 13 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1728

Abstract

Plant adaptations to low soil phosphorus (P) availability have been intensively studied in Brassica sp. in an attempt to identify the mechanisms involved in P uptake and utilization. The present pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the relationships between plant shoot and root [...] Read more.

Plant adaptations to low soil phosphorus (P) availability have been intensively studied in Brassica sp. in an attempt to identify the mechanisms involved in P uptake and utilization. The present pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the relationships between plant shoot and root growth, P uptake and use efficiency parameters, and P fractions and enzyme activity, in two species grown in three soil types. The aim of this study was to determine whether adaptation mechanisms are soil-dependent. Two kale species were grown in soils typical for coastal Croatia (terra rossa, rendzina, and fluvisol) with low P availability. Plants grown in fluvisol had the highest shoot biomass and accumulated most P, whereas plants developed the longest roots in terra rossa. Phosphatase activity differed among soils. P use efficiency differed among soils and species. Genotype IJK 17 showed better adaptation to low P availability, which was related to better uptake efficiency. In general, soils differed in inorganic and organic P fractions in rhizosphere soil, but no difference between genotypes was found. The activities of alkaline phosphatase and phosphodiesterase were negatively correlated with most organic P fractions, suggesting their function in the mineralization of soil organic P. Kale species activate different mechanisms of P uptake and utilization when grown in contrasting soil types, suggesting that specific responses to the soil type were more important than the genotypic difference. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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16 pages, 4002 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Fertility Improvement with Mixtures of Wood Ash and Biogas Digestates Enhances Leaf Photosynthesis and Extends the Growth Period for Deciduous Trees

by Austra Zuševica, Aleksandrs Adamovičs, Kārlis Dūmiņš, Viktorija Vendiņa, Sindija Žīgure and Dagnija Lazdina

Plants 2023, 12(5), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12051152 - 3 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2183

Abstract

In the context of climate change, it is necessary to establish forest management by balancing more products, using less area, and minimizing environmental impacts. The use of different industrial bio-based by-products as soil conditioners in the last few decades has gain more interest, [...] Read more.

In the context of climate change, it is necessary to establish forest management by balancing more products, using less area, and minimizing environmental impacts. The use of different industrial bio-based by-products as soil conditioners in the last few decades has gain more interest, because it leads to an extended use time of these products and supports the circular economy. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of fertiliser made from cattle and pig manure biogas fermentation digestate and wood ash from two cogeneration plants, applied in different mixture ratios, to test its suitability for fertilisation of deciduous trees, using the physiological, morphological, and chemical parameters of the leaves as an indicator. We selected two poplar clones: foreign ‘OP42’ (syn. Hybrid 275) and local ‘AUCE’ annual shoot stem cuttings as planting materials. A negative control group with acidic forest mineral soil as substrate and four fertilised groups with different applied digestate and wood ash ratio mixtures to forest soil was established (ash:digestate 0:0 (Control), 1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1). Mixture application improved growing conditions because all fertilised group poplars had longer growth periods and photosynthetic rates in August than the control group. Both local and foreign clones showed a good response to fertilisation in terms of leaf parameters. Poplar is a suitable culture to fertilise with bio-waste biogenic products, because of its capacity to absorb nutrients and fast response to fertilisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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11 pages, 678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leaf Nutrient Status of Commercially Grown Strawberries in Latvia, 2014–2022: A Possible Yield-Limiting Factor

by Anita Osvalde, Andis Karlsons, Gunta Cekstere and Laura Āboliņa

Plants 2023, 12(4), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12040945 - 19 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1835

Abstract

The present study was carried out to evaluate the leaf nutrient status of commercially grown strawberries in Latvia during 2014–2022. The results of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo and B in 200 strawberry leaf samples from different [...] Read more.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the leaf nutrient status of commercially grown strawberries in Latvia during 2014–2022. The results of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Mo and B in 200 strawberry leaf samples from different strawberry-producing farms were analysed over three periods: 2014–2016, 2017–2019, and 2020–2022. According to leaf analyses, plant fertilization was only partly well managed by the growers. During the research period, strawberries in Latvia were generally sufficiently supplied with N, P, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, Mo, and B, while the level of Ca, S, Zn, and Cu was considered low. The deficiency of these nutrients was characteristic for more than 50% of the samples. Since Ca, S, Zn, and Cu are essential for berry formation and quality and contribute to stress resistance; their deficiency could be one of the limiting factors for strawberry yield. The significant positive correlations found between nutrients, including deficient ones, confirmed their close relationship in the uptake process and the importance of sufficient supply. The results clearly indicated that fertilization could currently be an issue that limits the strawberry harvest in Latvia, and adequate provisions of Ca, S, Zn, and B should be the main focus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential of Bioassays to Assess Consequences of Cultivation of Acacia mangium Trees on Nitrogen Bioavailability to Eucalyptus Trees: Two Case-Studies in Contrasting Tropical Soils

by Kittima Waithaisong, Agnès Robin, Louis Mareschal, Jean-Pierre Bouillet, Jean-Michel Harmand, Bruno Bordron, Jean-Paul Laclau, José Leonardo Moraes Gonçalves and Claude Plassard

Plants 2023, 12(4), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12040802 - 10 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1612

Abstract

We hypothesized that the nitrogen-fixing tree Acacia mangium could improve the growth and nitrogen nutrition of non-fixing tree species such as Eucalyptus. We measured the N-mineralization and respiration rates of soils sampled from plots covered with Acacia, Eucalyptus or native vegetation [...] Read more.

We hypothesized that the nitrogen-fixing tree Acacia mangium could improve the growth and nitrogen nutrition of non-fixing tree species such as Eucalyptus. We measured the N-mineralization and respiration rates of soils sampled from plots covered with Acacia, Eucalyptus or native vegetation at two tropical sites (Itatinga in Brazil and Kissoko in the Congo) in the laboratory. We used a bioassay to assess N bioavailability to eucalypt seedlings grown with and without chemical fertilization for at least 6 months. At each site, Eucalyptus seedling growth and N bioavailability followed the same trends as the N-mineralization rates in soil samples. However, despite lower soil N-mineralization rates under Acacia in the Congo than in Brazil, Eucalyptus seedling growth and N bioavailability were much greater in the Congo, indicating that bioassays in pots are more accurate than N-mineralization rates when predicting the growth of eucalypt seedlings. Hence, in the Congo, planting Acacia mangium could be an attractive option to maintain the growth and N bioavailability of the non-fixing species Eucalyptus while decreasing chemical fertilization. Plant bioassays could help determine if the introduction of N₂-fixing trees will improve the growth and mineral nutrition of non-fixing tree species in tropical planted forests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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28 pages, 45653 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Foliar Symptomology, Nutrient Content, Yield, and Secondary Metabolite Variability of Cannabis Grown Hydroponically with Different Single-Element Nutrient Deficiencies

by David Llewellyn, Scott Golem, A. Maxwell P. Jones and Youbin Zheng

Plants 2023, 12(3), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12030422 - 17 Jan 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 30279

Abstract

In controlled environment production systems, Cannabis sativa (hereafter cannabis) is a commodity with high nutrient demands due to prolific growth under optimized environmental conditions. Since nutrient deficiencies can reduce yield and quality, cultivators need tools to rapidly detect and evaluate deficiency symptoms so [...] Read more.

In controlled environment production systems, Cannabis sativa (hereafter cannabis) is a commodity with high nutrient demands due to prolific growth under optimized environmental conditions. Since nutrient deficiencies can reduce yield and quality, cultivators need tools to rapidly detect and evaluate deficiency symptoms so corrective actions can be taken quickly to minimize losses. We grew cannabis plants in solution culture with different individual nutrient elements withheld from the solutions to identify deficiency symptoms. Control plants received a complete nutrient recipe, whereas the following single elements were withheld from the respective nutrient deficiency treatments: N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, and Mn. The nutrient treatments began when the photoperiod was switched to a 12/12 h (light/dark), and plants were grown to commercial maturity. Plants were monitored daily, and the development of visual deficiency symptoms were recorded. Photographs of each plant were taken weekly. Upon the onset of visual deficiency symptoms, both upper- and lower-canopy foliage were analyzed for nutrient element concentrations. At harvest, plants were evaluated for biomass partitioning, and the cannabinoid composition of inflorescence tissues. This manuscript describes the onset and progression of nutrient deficiency symptoms (with pictures), relates symptomology to foliar nutrient analyses, and contextualizes the relationships between nutrient deficiencies and cannabis growth, yield, and quality. Aboveground vegetative fresh weights were reduced by 73% in the -N treatment and 59% in the -P treatment, compared with the control. All deficiency treatments except for -Fe and -Mn had floral yields reduced by between 33% to 72%, compared with the control. Overall, deficiencies of individual nutrients can substantially reduce vegetative growth and inflorescence yield, although only minor effects were observed in secondary metabolite composition. The onset of individual deficiency symptoms did not always correspond with elemental analysis of foliar tissues. Cultivators should take an integrated approach in diagnosing nutrient deficiencies and take timely corrective actions to optimize productivity and minimize losses to yield and quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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12 pages, 476 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Growing Season, Cultivar, and Nitrogen Supply Affect Leaf and Fruit Micronutrient Status of Field-Grown Kiwiberry Vines

by Jan Stefaniak and Barbara Łata

Plants 2023, 12(1), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12010138 - 27 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1438

Abstract

The N uptake can affect kiwiberry yield and quality; however, the relationship between an increasing N dose and micronutrient accumulation in leaves and fruit is still to be elucidated. Interrelationships between essential nutrients are one of the most important issues in terms of [...] Read more.

The N uptake can affect kiwiberry yield and quality; however, the relationship between an increasing N dose and micronutrient accumulation in leaves and fruit is still to be elucidated. Interrelationships between essential nutrients are one of the most important issues in terms of effectiveness in plant mineral nutrition. A pattern in leaf nutrient accumulation throughout the growing period is required to indicate a suitable sampling time for the purpose of nutrient diagnostics and controlled plant feeding. The experiment was conducted on two commercially available cultivars of kiwiberry, ‘Weiki’ and ‘Geneva’, during the 2015–2016 growing seasons with an increasing soil N fertility (30–50–80 mg N kg⁻¹ soil DW) to test the relationship between soil N level and leaf/fruit micronutrient concentration. The leaf Zn, Cu, Fe, and Mn concentrations significantly increased with a higher N supply in ‘Geneva’, while in ‘Weiki’ only Mn increased. Leaf B, Fe, and Mn gradually increased throughout the growing season, while Cu decreased. Between mid-July and the beginning of August, the lowest fluctuations in the micronutrient contents were recorded. The effect of the growing season on leaf micronutrient accumulation was highly significant; except for Fe, significantly higher micronutrient levels were revealed in 2016. Compared to the leaves, the growing season effect was smaller in the case of fruit micronutrient concentrations. Irrespective of cultivar, the increase in N fertilization resulted in a higher fruit Mn concentration and was insignificant in the case of other micronutrients. The results indicate that the N dose may affect the accumulation of micronutrients within a certain range depending on the tissue type and the genotype. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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10 pages, 1248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sulfur Nutrition Affects Garlic Bulb Yield and Allicin Concentration

by Binh Thi Nguyen, Stephen M. Harper, Tim J. O’Hare, Neal W. Menzies and Bernhard Wehr

Plants 2022, 11(19), 2571; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11192571 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2621

Abstract

Improving bulb yield and allicin content of garlic is important in meeting fresh and pharmaceutical market demands. Garlic plants have a high demand for sulfur (S) since allicin contains S atoms. Two experiments were conducted to identify the effect of S application rate [...] Read more.

Improving bulb yield and allicin content of garlic is important in meeting fresh and pharmaceutical market demands. Garlic plants have a high demand for sulfur (S) since allicin contains S atoms. Two experiments were conducted to identify the effect of S application rate on garlic yield and quality. In a field trial assessing six S application rates (0–150 kg S ha⁻¹), cultivar ‘Glenlarge’ produced the greatest bulb weight (~90 g) and allicin content (521 mg bulb⁻¹) with the application of 75 kg S ha⁻¹. In contrast, cultivar ‘Southern Glen’ showed no response in bulb weight or allicin. This was likely due to high soil background S concentrations masking treatment effects. Subsequently, a solution culture experiment with cv. ‘Glenlarge’ evaluated six S application rates (188 to 1504 mg S plant⁻¹, nominally equivalent to 25–200 kg S ha⁻¹). In solution culture, bulb weight and allicin concentration increased with S rate. Highest bulb weight (~53 g bulb⁻¹) and allicin concentration (~11 mg g⁻¹ DW) were recorded at an S application of 1504 mg S plant⁻¹. This is the first report to conclusively demonstrate the effect of S on yield and allicin in garlic grown in solution culture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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12 pages, 2822 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Nitrogen Deficiency and Resupply on the Absorption of Mineral Nutrients by Tangor Cultivar ‘Shiranuhi’ (Citrus unshiu × C. sinensis) Grown in a Hydroponic System

by Seong Heo and Won-Pyo Park

Plants 2022, 11(18), 2351; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11182351 - 8 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4964

Abstract

Tangor (Citrus unshiu × C. sinensis) cultivars obtained through interspecific hybridization have gained popularity in various countries, including South Korea. However, tangor has a relatively short history of cultivation and thus has been less well researched in terms of physiology and [...] Read more.

Tangor (Citrus unshiu × C. sinensis) cultivars obtained through interspecific hybridization have gained popularity in various countries, including South Korea. However, tangor has a relatively short history of cultivation and thus has been less well researched in terms of physiology and opping technology compared to mandarin. In addition, although tangor grows more vigorously than mandarin and thus has high nutrient demands and longer harvest time, it is more prone to various physiological disorders. Furthermore, the demand for nutrients could vary depending on the cultivars even within the same species. Thus, the current study examined the effects of nitrogen deficiency and resupply on the uptake of mineral nutrients using a specific cultivar ‘Shiranuhi’ as a case study. In this study, the tangor cultivar ‘Shiranuhi’ was cultivated in a hydroponics system, which allows the control of nutrient contents, and changes in mineral nutrient contents under nitrogen deficiency and nitrogen resupply were examined. Based on this, the results show the straightforward relationship between nitrogen and other mineral nutrients under a hydroponic system applying the cultivation of tangor. This implies that the hydroponics system can be applied to tangor cultivation and efficiently and widely expanded in Northeast Asia, and the income of growers will increase through the production of high-quality fruits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 1147 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Nitrogen Forms on the Growth and Nitrogen Accumulation in Buchloe dactyloides Seedlings

by Lizhu Guo, Huizhen Meng, Ke Teng, Xifeng Fan, Hui Zhang, Wenjun Teng, Yuesen Yue and Juying Wu

Plants 2022, 11(16), 2086; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11162086 - 10 Aug 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1770

Abstract

Buffalograss [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.] has become the most widely cultivated warm-season turfgrass in northern China because of its low-maintenance requirements. Nitrogen (N) can be applied to plants in a range of formulations. However, preference of nitrogen uptake and the effects of [...] Read more.

Buffalograss [Buchloe dactyloides (Nutt.) Engelm.] has become the most widely cultivated warm-season turfgrass in northern China because of its low-maintenance requirements. Nitrogen (N) can be applied to plants in a range of formulations. However, preference of nitrogen uptake and the effects of N form on plant growth and nitrogen accumulation has not been established in buffalograss. In this study, we evaluated the effects of different inorganic nitrogen forms (NO₃⁻-N, NH₄⁺-N, and NO₃⁻-N: NH₄⁺-N = 1:1) on growth and nitrogen accumulation in buffalograss seedlings. Results showed that supply of three N forms significantly increased buffalograss seedlings growth, biomass, and N contents of all plant organs compared with the seedlings receiving free nitrogen. Plants achieved better growth performance when they received nitrate as the sole N source, which stimulated stolon growth and increased the biomass of ramets, spacers, and aboveground and total plant biomass, and also allocated more biomass to ramets and more N to spacers. Meanwhile, those plants supplied with the treatment +NH₄NO₃ displayed a significantly greater N content in the ramet, ¹⁵N abundance, and ¹⁵N accumulation amount in all organs. These data suggest NO₃⁻-N supplied either singly or in mixture increased vegetative propagation and thus facilitates buffalograss establishment. However, applications of ammonium caused detrimental effects on buffalograss seedlings growth, but +NO₃⁻ could alleviate NH₄⁺-induced morphological disorders. Thus, recommendations to increase vegetative propagation and biomass accumulation in buffalograss seedlings should consider increasing NO₃⁻-N in a fertility program and avoiding applications of nitrogen as NH₄⁺-N. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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14 pages, 2785 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Root-Zone Heat Priming Effects on Maximum Quantum Efficiency of PSII, Productivity, Root Morphology and Nutritional Quality of Two Aeroponically Grown Leafy Greens in a Tropical Greenhouse

by Jie He, Cassander Tan and Lin Qin

Plants 2022, 11(13), 1684; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11131684 - 25 Jun 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1728

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of root zone (RZ) heat priming on Eruca sativa (cv. Arugula) and Lactuca sativa (cv. Canasta) in a tropical greenhouse by exposing them to three different RZ temperatures (RZTs). For the first group, plants were grown at [...] Read more.

This study investigated the effects of root zone (RZ) heat priming on Eruca sativa (cv. Arugula) and Lactuca sativa (cv. Canasta) in a tropical greenhouse by exposing them to three different RZ temperatures (RZTs). For the first group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 36 days. The second group of plants was grown at 25 °C-RZT for 10 days before transferring to 38 °C-RZT for 10 days and then to 42 °C-RZT for another 16 days (primed). For the third group, plants were grown at 25 °C-RZT for 20 days and for the last 16 days were transferred to 42 °C-RZT (non-primed). RZ heat priming did not affect the leaf expansion of Arugula while the leaf expansion was slower in RZ heat primed Canasta compared to 25 °C-RZT plants. After transferring to 42 °C-RZT in the later stage, RZ heat primed Arugula had similar productivity but a larger root system with higher nutritional quality at harvest and during postharvest storage compared to those of 25 °C-RZT plants. After subjection to 42 °C-RZT, although RZ heat priming enhanced its nutritional quality, the productivity of Canasta was compromised. The results of this study suggest that it is feasible to enhance productivity and nutritional quality of leafy greens at lower production cost through RZT management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 1594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutrient Composition Analysis of Maize Hybrids Affected by Different Nitrogen Fertilisation Systems

by Csaba Bojtor, Seyed Mohammad Nasir Mousavi, Árpád Illés, Farid Golzardi, Adrienn Széles, Atala Szabó, János Nagy and Csaba L. Marton

Plants 2022, 11(12), 1593; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11121593 - 16 Jun 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3568

Abstract

Maize is one of the most widely used plants in the agricultural industry, and the fields of application of this plant are broad. The experiment was conducted at the Látókép Crop Production Experimental Station of the University of Debrecen, Hungary. Three mid-ripening maize [...] Read more.

Maize is one of the most widely used plants in the agricultural industry, and the fields of application of this plant are broad. The experiment was conducted at the Látókép Crop Production Experimental Station of the University of Debrecen, Hungary. Three mid-ripening maize hybrids with different FAO numbers were used in the present study. The effects of different nitrogen supplies were examined as a variable rate of abiotic stress and the interrelationship among the essential nutrients through the nutrient acquisition and partitioning of the different vegetative and generative plant parts. The results showed that NPK application compared to the control treatment (no fertilizer application) increased DM in all tissues of maize, while increasing nitrogen application from 120 to 300 kg ha⁻¹ had no significant effect on this trait. The highest protein content was obtained with the nitrogen application of 120 kg ha⁻¹, and the higher nitrogen fertilizer application had no significant effect on this trait. Seeds and leaves had a maximum zinc and manganese value in terms of nitrogen content (protein). Dry matter was positively correlated with nitrogen, potassium, and manganese content, while the dry matter had a negative correlation with nickel content. In general, to achieve a maximum quantitative and qualitative yield, it is recommended to use NPK fertilizer with a rate of 120 kg ha⁻¹ N for maize cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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18 pages, 5862 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Use of Biochar to Improve the Sustainable Crop Production of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.)

by Daniela Losacco, Marina Tumolo, Pietro Cotugno, Natalia Leone, Carmine Massarelli, Stefano Convertini, Angelo Tursi, Vito Felice Uricchio and Valeria Ancona

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1182; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091182 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3499

Abstract

In agriculture, biochar (B) application has been suggested as a green technology to reduce nitrate pollution from agricultural origins and improve crop yield. The agronomic impact of B use on soil has been extensively studied, while knowledge of its possible effects on horticultural [...] Read more.

In agriculture, biochar (B) application has been suggested as a green technology to reduce nitrate pollution from agricultural origins and improve crop yield. The agronomic impact of B use on soil has been extensively studied, while knowledge of its possible effects on horticultural cultivation is still scarce. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of using biochar in soils treated with two different rates of nitrogen fertilizers on soil properties and nitrogen (N) leachate. This study also investigated the vegetative parameters during the crop growing season of Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis. Soil mesocosms were set up to test the following treatments: untreated/control (C); normal dose of N fertilizer (130 kg N ha⁻¹) (ND); ND+B; high dose of N fertilizer (260 kg N ha⁻¹) (HD); and HD+B. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were exploited to assess biochar’s ability to reduce nitrate leaching and enhance soil–vegetative properties. Biochar addition affected the soil chemical properties of the fertilized microcosms (ND and HD). Biochar increased the

N H_{4}^{+}

content in HD soil and the

N O_{3}^{-}

content in ND soil by 26 mg/L and 48.76 mg/L, respectively. The results showed that biochar application increased the marketable cauliflower yield. In ND+B and HD+B, the curd weight was 880.68 kg and 1097.60 kg, respectively. In addition, a small number of nitrogenous compounds in the leachate were quantified in experimental lines with the biochar. Therefore, biochar use improves the marketable yield of horticulture, mitigating the negative impacts associated with the mass use of N fertilizers in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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17 pages, 1330 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Dynamics of Phosphorus Uptake and Remobilization during the Grain Development Period in Durum Wheat Plants

by Mohamed El Mazlouzi, Christian Morel, Thierry Robert, Coralie Chesseron, Christophe Salon, Jean-Yves Cornu and Alain Mollier

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081006 - 7 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2732

Abstract

Post-anthesis phosphorus (P) uptake and the remobilization of the previously acquired P are the principal sources of grain P nutrition in wheat. However, how the acquired P reaches the grains and its partitioning at the whole plant level remain poorly understood. Here, the [...] Read more.

Post-anthesis phosphorus (P) uptake and the remobilization of the previously acquired P are the principal sources of grain P nutrition in wheat. However, how the acquired P reaches the grains and its partitioning at the whole plant level remain poorly understood. Here, the temporal dynamics of the newly acquired P in durum wheat organs and its allocation to grain were examined using pulse-chase

^{32}

P-labeling experiments at 5 and 14 days after anthesis. Durum wheat plants were grown hydroponically under high and low P supplies. Each labeling experiment lasted for 24 h. Plants were harvested 24, 48, and 96 h after labeling. Low and high P treatments significantly affected the allocation of the newly acquired P at the whole plant level. Three days (96 h) after the first

^{32}

P-labeling, 8% and 4% of the newly acquired P from exogenous solution were allocated to grains, 73% and 55% to the remainder aboveground organs, and 19% and 41% to the roots at low and high P supplies, respectively. Three days after the second labeling, the corresponding values were 48% and 20% in grains, 44% and 53% in the remainder aboveground organs, and 8% and 27% in roots at low and high P supplies, respectively. These results reveal that the dynamics of P allocation to grain was faster in plants grown under low P supply than under high supply. However, the obtained results also indicate that the origin of P accumulated in durum wheat grains was mainly from P remobilization with little contribution from post-anthesis P uptake. The present study emphasizes the role of vegetative organs as temporary storage of P taken up during the grain filling period before its final allocation to grains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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12 pages, 1851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Silicon Application Promotes Productivity, Silicon Accumulation and Upregulates Silicon Transporter Gene Expression in Rice

by Nanthana Chaiwong, Tonapha Pusadee, Sansanee Jamjod and Chanakan Prom-u-thai

Plants 2022, 11(7), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11070989 - 5 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2225

Abstract

Rice has been shown to respond positively to Si fertilizer in terms of growth and productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a series of Si application rates on grain yield, Si concentration, and the expression of the [...] Read more.

Rice has been shown to respond positively to Si fertilizer in terms of growth and productivity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a series of Si application rates on grain yield, Si concentration, and the expression of the OsLsi6 gene among three Thai rice varieties. The varieties CNT1, PTT1, and KDML105 were grown in a pot experiment under six levels of Si (0, 100, 150, 200, 250, and 300 kg Si/ha). Grain yield was the highest at 300 kg Si/ha, being increased by 35%, 53%, and 69% in CNT1, PTT1, and KDML105, respectively, compared with the plants grown without added Si. For Si concentrations in rice plants, rising Si fertilizer application up to 150 kg/ha significantly increased the Si concentration in straw, flag leaf, and husk in all varieties. The Si concentration in all tissues was higher under high Si (300 kg Si/ha). Applying Si fertilizer also increased the expression level of OsLsi6 in both CNT1 and PTT1 varieties. The highest expression level of OsLsi6 was associated with 300 kg Si/ha, being increased by 548% in CNT1 and 326% in PTT1 compared with untreated plants. These results indicate that Si application is an effective way to improve rice yield as well as Si concentration, and that the effect is related to the higher expression of the OsLsi6 gene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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11 pages, 426 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exchangeable and Plant-Available Macronutrients in a Long-Term Tillage and Crop Rotation Experiment after 15 Years

by Reinhard W. Neugschwandtner, Jiřina Száková, Vera Pachtrog, Pavel Tlustoš, Martin Kulhánek, Jindřich Černý, Hans-Peter Kaul, Helmut Wagentristl, Gerhard Moitzi and Pia Euteneuer

Plants 2022, 11(4), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11040565 - 21 Feb 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2232

Abstract

The status of macronutrients phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulphur (S), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) was assessed 15 years after the establishment of a long-term crop rotation and soil tillage trial with mouldboard ploughing (MP), no-till (NT), deep conservation tillage (CTd) and shallow [...] Read more.

The status of macronutrients phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulphur (S), calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) was assessed 15 years after the establishment of a long-term crop rotation and soil tillage trial with mouldboard ploughing (MP), no-till (NT), deep conservation tillage (CTd) and shallow conservation tillage (CTs). The mobile proportions of macronutrients in an Austrian Chernozem soil were determined to a depth of 50 cm with the single reagent extractant acetic acid (AA) and Mehlich 3 (M3), which uses several reagents as extractants. AA revealed less P and K, but more Ca and Mg compared to M3. Both extractants could capture the distribution pattern of the nutrients in the soil profile, but M3 showed higher differences among the soil layers. In the first 5 cm in NT, the P concentration was higher than in MP, CTd and CTs. The concentration of K was higher in NT, CTd and CTs than in MP in the first 10 cm of the soil. Phosphorus and K concentrations did not differ between tillage treatments below these soil layers, and S, Ca and Mg were similar in all soil layers. As none of the analysed elements except for Ca were fertilized and no accumulation of S, Ca and Mg was observed in the upper soil layer, the higher concentrations are attributed to accumulation through crop residues and then less leaching of P and K. Crop rotation did not affect the distribution of the analysed macronutrients in the soil but affected the nutrient uptake by winter wheat mostly due to the yield differences of winter wheat in the two crop rotations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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17 pages, 521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Responses of Soybean Genotypes to Different Nitrogen and Phosphorus Sources: Impacts on Yield Components, Seed Yield, and Seed Protein

by Raby Nget, Edna A. Aguilar, Pompe C. Sta. Cruz, Consorcia E. Reaño, Pearl B. Sanchez, Manuel R. Reyes and P. V. Vara Prasad

Plants 2022, 11(3), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11030298 - 24 Jan 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3881

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr) is an important crop, as both food for humans and feed for livestock in Cambodia, but the yields are low, due to use of low yielding genotypes and limited use of inputs. This study aimed to investigate [...] Read more.

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr) is an important crop, as both food for humans and feed for livestock in Cambodia, but the yields are low, due to use of low yielding genotypes and limited use of inputs. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different genotypes and different N and P fertilizer sources on growth, seed yield, and seed protein of soybean. Five genotypes (Sbung, Hongry, 98C81, ACS1, and Kaiabi) were grown under different N (90 kg N ha⁻¹ from urea, nano-n, Nitroplus, and without N application as control) and P fertilizers (50 kg P ha⁻¹ from Inorganic P, nano-p, Mykovam, and without P application as control) in two screenhouse experiments. Shoot, root, and nodulation traits, as well as seed yield and protein, were significantly affected by genotypes and different N and/or P fertilizer sources. Notably, while genotypes Sbung and 98C81 showed the highest yields among the genotypes, regardless of different N and P fertilizers, only Sbung had the highest seed protein. The application of different N and/or P sources significantly increased seed yield, compared to non-N and -P application. Specifically, seed yield and seed protein were higher when treated with nano-n or urea, and number of nodules, root biomass, and nodule dry weight was increased with Nitroplus, whereas seed yield and protein were higher with nano-p, Mykovam, and inorganic P. Application rate of 90 kg N ha⁻¹ and 50 kg P ha⁻¹ produced higher seed yield and its components and seed protein. We conclude that N and P application as well as Nitroplus inoculation can help increase seed yield of soybean in Cambodia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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9 pages, 274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Nitrogen Nutrition on Fatty Acids in Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.)

by Alexandra Zapletalová, Ladislav Ducsay, Ladislav Varga, Jakub Sitkey, Soňa Javoreková and Peter Hozlár

Plants 2022, 11(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11010044 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2906

Abstract

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen nutrition on the content of fatty acids and selected qualitative parameters (nitrogenous substances, ash, crude fiber) in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). The experiment was carried out at the [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of nitrogen nutrition on the content of fatty acids and selected qualitative parameters (nitrogenous substances, ash, crude fiber) in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.). The experiment was carried out at the Vígľaš—Pstruša Research and Breeding Station in 2008–2009 and 2009–2010 by complete block design with four repetitions. Nitrogen fertilization was applied at four levels, plus an untreated control (after agrochemical soil analysis) by DAN 27 (Dolomite Ammonium Nitrate): 100, 120, 140, and 160 kg/ha N. Application date was in BBCH scale phase 59–60. The fatty acid contents (MUFA—monosaturated fatty acids; PUFA—polyunsaturated fatty acids) were determined by gas chromatography in the extracted fat, which is determined by extraction method. Within the result evaluation, statistically significant increases in the contents of linoleic and linolenic acids were recorded in all variants treated by nitrogen fertilizer, which is positive in terms of the use of rapeseed oil for food and energy purposes. The statistically significant decrease of oleic acid after the application of nitrogen fertilizers is negative for industry use of rapeseed oil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

17 pages, 4265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Genes Associated with Nitrogen Stress Responses in Apple Leaves

by Youngsuk Lee, Van Giap Do, Seonae Kim and Hunjoong Kweon

Plants 2021, 10(12), 2649; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10122649 - 2 Dec 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2136

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient that regulates diverse physiological processes for plant survival and development. In apple orchards, inappropriate N conditions can cause imbalanced growth and subsequent physiological disorders in trees. In order to investigate the molecular basis underlying the physiological signals [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient that regulates diverse physiological processes for plant survival and development. In apple orchards, inappropriate N conditions can cause imbalanced growth and subsequent physiological disorders in trees. In order to investigate the molecular basis underlying the physiological signals for N stress responses, we examined the metabolic signals responsive to contrasting N stress conditions (deficient/excessive) in apple leaves using transcriptome approaches. The clustering of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed the expression dynamics of genes associated with each N stress group. Functional analyses of gene ontology and pathway enrichments revealed the potential candidates of metabolic signals responsible for N-deficient/excessive stress responses. The functional interactions of DEGs in each cluster were further explored by protein–protein interaction network analysis. Our results provided a comprehensive insight into molecular signals responsive to N stress conditions, and will be useful in future research to enhance the nutrition tolerance of tree crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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22 pages, 7975 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nitrogen Assimilation Related Genes in Brassicanapus: Systematic Characterization and Expression Analysis Identified Hub Genes in Multiple Nutrient Stress Responses

by Xuyou He, Hao Zhang, Xiangsheng Ye, Juan Hong and Guangda Ding

Plants 2021, 10(10), 2160; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10102160 - 12 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2578

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plants. However, little is known about the molecular regulation of N assimilation in Brassica napus, one of the most important oil crops worldwide. Here, we carried out a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the N assimilation [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plants. However, little is known about the molecular regulation of N assimilation in Brassica napus, one of the most important oil crops worldwide. Here, we carried out a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the N assimilation related genes (NAGs) in B. napus. A total of 67 NAGs were identified encoding major enzymes involved in N assimilation, including asparagine synthetase (AS), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), glutamine oxoglutarate aminotransferase (GOGAT), glutamine synthetase (GS), nitrite reductase (NiR), nitrate reductase (NR). The syntenic analysis revealed that segmental duplication and whole-genome duplication were the main expansion pattern during gene evolution. Each NAG family showed different degrees of differentiation in characterization, gene structure, conserved motifs and cis-elements. Furthermore, diverse responses of NAG to multiple nutrient stresses were observed. Among them, more NAGs were regulated by N deficiency and ammonium toxicity than by phosphorus and potassium deprivations. Moreover, 12 hub genes responding to N starvation were identified, which may play vital roles in N utilization. Taken together, our results provide a basis for further functional research of NAGs in rapeseed N assimilation and also put forward new points in their responses to contrasting nutrient stresses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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16 pages, 6892 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Curly Leaf Trait on Cottonseed Micro-Nutrient Status in Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) Lines

by Nacer Bellaloui, Rickie B. Turley and Salliana R. Stetina

Plants 2021, 10(8), 1701; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10081701 - 18 Aug 2021

Viewed by 2231

Abstract

Cottonseed is a source of nutrients, including protein, oil, and macro- and micro-nutrients. Micro-nutrients such as boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) are essential for plant and human health. Deficiencies of these micro-nutrients in soil lead to poor [...] Read more.

Cottonseed is a source of nutrients, including protein, oil, and macro- and micro-nutrients. Micro-nutrients such as boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) are essential for plant and human health. Deficiencies of these micro-nutrients in soil lead to poor crop production and poor seed quality. Micro-nutrient deficiencies in the human diet lead to malnutrition and serious health issues. Therefore, identifying new cotton lines containing high nutritional qualities such as micro-nutrients, and understanding plant traits influencing micro-nutrients are essential. The objective of this research was to investigate the effects of leaf shape (curly leaf: CRL) on cottonseed B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni (nickel), and Zn in two near-isogenic cotton lines differing in leaf shape (DP 5690 wild-type with normal leaves and DP 5690 CRL). We also used Uzbek CRL, the source of the curly leaf trait, for comparison. A field experiment was conducted in 2014 and 2015 in Stoneville, MS, USA. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with three replicates. The results showed that, in 2014, both DP 5690 wild-type and Uzbek CRL had higher seed B, Cu, Fe, and Ni than in DP 5690 CRL. The accumulation of Mn and Zn in seeds of DP 5690 CRL was higher than in DP 5690 wild-type and Uzbek CRL. However, in 2015, the concentrations of B, Cu, Fe, and Ni, including Mn and Zn, were higher in both DP 5690 wild-type and Uzbek CRL than in DP 5690 CRL. Positive and negative correlations existed in 2014; however, only positive correlations existed between all nutrients in 2015. This research demonstrated that leaf shape can alter cottonseed micro-nutrients status. As Uzbek CRL behaved similar to wild-type, both leaf shape and other factors contributed to the alteration in seed micronutrients, affecting seed nutritional qualities. Therefore, leaf-shape partially contributed to the changes in micro-nutrients in cottonseed. The negative and positive correlations in 2014, and only positive correlations in 2015, were likely due to the heat difference between 2014 and 2015 as 2015 was warmer than 2014. Significant levels of seed micro-nutrients were shown between these lines, providing opportunities for breeders to select for high seed micro-nutrients in cotton. Additionally, the current research provides researchers with physiological information on the impact of leaf shape on seed nutritional quality. The leaf shape trait can also be used as a tool to study leaf development, physiological, biochemical, and morphological processes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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12 pages, 2245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cost-Effective Modern Chemical Sensor System for Soil Macronutrient Analysis Applied to Thai Sustainable and Precision Agriculture

by Sutasinee Apichai, Chalermpong Saenjum, Thanawat Pattananandecha, Kitti Phojuang, Siraprapa Wattanakul, Kanokwan Kiwfo, Attachai Jintrawet and Kate Grudpan

Plants 2021, 10(8), 1524; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10081524 - 26 Jul 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2717

Abstract

A modern chemical sensor system (M-CSS) was developed for the cost-effective chemical analysis of Thai precision and sustainable agriculture (TPSA), which is suitable in rural Thailand and elsewhere. The aim of this study was to achieve precision and sustainable agriculture (P-SA). The M-CSS [...] Read more.

A modern chemical sensor system (M-CSS) was developed for the cost-effective chemical analysis of Thai precision and sustainable agriculture (TPSA), which is suitable in rural Thailand and elsewhere. The aim of this study was to achieve precision and sustainable agriculture (P-SA). The M-CSS functions according to the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) definition and incorporates information and communication technologies (ICTs). The developed chemical sensor in the M-CSS is based on a colorimetric determination by a smart device/smartphone. Additionally, the preparation of soil samples was investigated. Soil samples of optimal conditions were extracted using an acid extractant in the ratio of one to two (extract to soil sample). Then, phosphate-phosphorous and potassium were detected with the M-CSS, which showed an excellent correlation with the standard reference methods. Interestingly, it is noteworthy that the at-site analysis of the developed method could detect a greater nitrate-nitrogen content than that of the standard reference method. The developed cost-effective analysis for the plant macronutrient content in the soil, including nitrate-nitrogen, phosphate-phosphorous, and potassium, was demonstrated for organic vegetable farms at the real P-SA research site in Northern Thailand. The obtained results can guide the management of the application of fertilizers. The proposed M-CSS exhibited the potential to be used for at-site soil macronutrient analysis and represents the starting point of Thai precision and sustainable agriculture (TPSA). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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16 pages, 490 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nitrogen and Sulphur Fertilisation for Marketable Yields of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. Capitata), Leaf Nitrate and Glucosinolates and Nitrogen Losses Studied in a Field Experiment in Central Slovenia

by Nina Kacjan Maršić, Ksenija Sinkovič Može, Rok Mihelič, Marijan Nečemer, Metka Hudina and Jerneja Jakopič

Plants 2021, 10(7), 1304; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10071304 - 27 Jun 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2853

Abstract

A field trial of white cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. Capitata L.) was carried out under the humid temperate climate conditions in Central Slovenia to investigate the effects of calcium ammonium nitrate (0, 180 and 240 kg N ha⁻¹) and gypsum [...] Read more.

A field trial of white cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. Capitata L.) was carried out under the humid temperate climate conditions in Central Slovenia to investigate the effects of calcium ammonium nitrate (0, 180 and 240 kg N ha⁻¹) and gypsum (0 and 40 kg S ha⁻¹) fertilisation on yield, yield quality (nitrate, glucosinolate levels and glucosinolate profile) and nitrogen use efficiency. The highest marketable yield, dry matter yield and nitrogen uptake were obtained at the highest nitrogen fertilisation rate when in combination with sulphur. For this treatment, the nitrogen surplus in the soil after harvesting was lower than for the same nitrogen fertilisation without sulphur application. For the combination N₂₄₀S₄₀, the sulphur addition significantly increased nitrogen use efficiency, which resulted in reduced nitrate content in the cabbage heads. The chemical forms of glucosinolates showed that 80–85% were aliphatic glucosinolates with the remainder as the indole group. For the aliphatic glucosinolates, significant interactions between nitrogen and sulphur fertilisations were reflected in increased levels of progoitrin and glucoiberin when sulphur was applied at the lower nitrogen fertilisation rates. For the indole group, the levels of glucobrassicin and the indole group itself decreased at higher nitrogen fertilisation rates, independent of sulphur fertilisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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13 pages, 583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Interspecific Chromosome Substitution in Upland Cotton on Cottonseed Macronutrients

by Nacer Bellaloui, Sukumar Saha, Jennifer L. Tonos, Jodi A. Scheffler, Johnie N. Jenkins, Jack C. McCarty and David M. Stelly

Plants 2021, 10(6), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10061158 - 7 Jun 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2289

Abstract

Nutrients, including macronutrients such as Ca, P, K, and Mg, are essential for crop production and seed quality, and for human and animal nutrition and health. Macronutrient deficiencies in soil lead to poor crop nutritional qualities and a low level of macronutrients in [...] Read more.

Nutrients, including macronutrients such as Ca, P, K, and Mg, are essential for crop production and seed quality, and for human and animal nutrition and health. Macronutrient deficiencies in soil lead to poor crop nutritional qualities and a low level of macronutrients in cottonseed meal-based products, leading to malnutrition. Therefore, the discovery of novel germplasm with a high level of macronutrients or significant variability in the macronutrient content of crop seeds is critical. To our knowledge, there is no information available on the effects of chromosome or chromosome arm substitution on cottonseed macronutrient content. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of chromosome or chromosome arm substitution on the variability and content of the cottonseed macronutrients Ca, K, Mg, N, P, and S in chromosome substitution lines (CS). Nine chromosome substitution lines were grown in two-field experiments at two locations in 2013 in South Carolina, USA, and in 2014 in Mississippi, USA. The controls used were TM-1, the recurrent parent of the CS line, and the cultivar AM UA48. The results showed major variability in macronutrients among CS lines and between CS lines and controls. For example, in South Carolina, the mean values showed that five CS lines (CS-T02, CS-T04, CS-T08sh, CS-B02, and CS-B04) had higher Ca level in seed than controls. Ca levels in these CS lines varied from 1.88 to 2.63 g kg⁻¹ compared with 1.81 and 1.72 g kg⁻¹ for TM-1 and AMUA48, respectively, with CS-T04 having the highest Ca concentration. CS-M08sh exhibited the highest K concentration (14.50 g kg⁻¹), an increase of 29% and 49% over TM-1 and AM UA48, respectively. Other CS lines had higher Mg, P, and S than the controls. A similar trend was found at the MS location. This research demonstrated that chromosome substitution resulted in higher seed macronutrients in some CS lines, and these CS lines with a higher content of macronutrients can be used as a genetic tool towards the identification of desired seed nutrition traits. Also, the CS lines with higher desired macronutrients can be used as parents to breed for improved nutritional quality in Upland cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., through improvement by the interspecific introgression of desired seed nutrient traits such as Ca, K, P, S, and N. The positive and significant (p ≤ 0.0001) correlation of P with Ca, P with Mg, S with P, and S with N will aid in understanding the relationships between nutrients to improve the fertilizer management program and maintain higher cottonseed nutrient content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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15 pages, 7325 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Raw and Fermented Alfalfa Brown Juice Induces Changes in the Germination and Development of French Marigold (Tagetes patula L.) Plants

by Döme Barna, Szilvia Kisvarga, Szilvia Kovács, Gábor Csatári, Ibolya O. Tóth, Miklós Gábor Fári, Tarek Alshaal and Nóra Bákonyi

Plants 2021, 10(6), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10061076 - 27 May 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3035

Abstract

Organic and ecological farming programs require new and efficient biostimulants with beneficial properties for the sustainable and safe production of seedlings and ornamental plants. We examined the effect of non-fermented and lacto-fermented alfalfa brown juice (BJ) on seed germination and the vegetative, physiological, [...] Read more.

Organic and ecological farming programs require new and efficient biostimulants with beneficial properties for the sustainable and safe production of seedlings and ornamental plants. We examined the effect of non-fermented and lacto-fermented alfalfa brown juice (BJ) on seed germination and the vegetative, physiological, and anatomical properties of French marigold (Tagetes patula L. ’Csemő’) plants which were treated with 0.5–10% fermented and non-fermented BJ, with tap water applied as a control. Applying 0.5% fermented BJ significantly improved seed germination compared with non-fermented BJ, resulting in an increase of 9.6, 11.2, 10.9, and 41.7% in the final germination percent, germination rate index, germination index, and vigor index, respectively. In addition, it increased the root and shoot length by 7.9 and 16.1%, respectively, root and shoot dry mass by 20 and 47.6%, respectively, and the number of leaves by 28.8% compared to the control. Furthermore, an increase in contents of water-soluble phenol, chlorophyll a and b, and carotenoid was reported upon the application of 0.5% fermented BJ, while peroxidase activity decreased. Our results prove that alfalfa BJ can be enrolled as a biostimulant as part of the circular farming approach which supports the sustainable horticultural practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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40 pages, 892 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Plant Nutrition—New Methods Based on the Lessons of History: A Review

by Martin Kulhánek, Dinkayehu Alamnie Asrade, Pavel Suran, Ondřej Sedlář, Jindřich Černý and Jiří Balík

Plants 2023, 12(24), 4150; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12244150 - 13 Dec 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2524

Abstract

As with new technologies, plant nutrition has taken a big step forward in the last two decades. The main objective of this review is to briefly summarise the main pathways in modern plant nutrition and attract potential researchers and publishers to this area. [...] Read more.

As with new technologies, plant nutrition has taken a big step forward in the last two decades. The main objective of this review is to briefly summarise the main pathways in modern plant nutrition and attract potential researchers and publishers to this area. First, this review highlights the importance of long-term field experiments, which provide us with valuable information about the effects of different applied strategies. The second part is dedicated to the new analytical technologies (tomography, spectrometry, and chromatography), intensively studied environments (rhizosphere, soil microbial communities, and enzymatic activity), nutrient relationship indexes, and the general importance of proper data evaluation. The third section is dedicated to the strategies of plant nutrition, i.e., (i) plant breeding, (ii) precision farming, (iii) fertiliser placement, (iv) biostimulants, (v) waste materials as a source of nutrients, and (vi) nanotechnologies. Finally, the increasing environmental risks related to plant nutrition, including biotic and abiotic stress, mainly the threat of soil salinity, are mentioned. In the 21st century, fertiliser application trends should be shifted to local application, precise farming, and nanotechnology; amended with ecofriendly organic fertilisers to ensure sustainable agricultural practices; and supported by new, highly effective crop varieties. To optimise agriculture, only the combination of the mentioned modern strategies supported by a proper analysis based on long-term observations seems to be a suitable pathway. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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45 pages, 2749 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Physicochemical, Nutritional, and Medicinal Properties of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and Its Main Agro-Industrial Use: A Review

by Mariana Martins, Maria H. Ribeiro and Cristina M. M. Almeida

Plants 2023, 12(7), 1512; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12071512 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 9072

Abstract

The cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (OFI) belongs to the Cactaceae family, which contains about 130 genera and nearly 1600 species. This review aims to evaluate this plant from several perspectives, namely, botanic, physicochemical, nutritional, and medicinal properties, as well as agro-industrial use. [...] Read more.

The cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. (OFI) belongs to the Cactaceae family, which contains about 130 genera and nearly 1600 species. This review aims to evaluate this plant from several perspectives, namely, botanic, physicochemical, nutritional, and medicinal properties, as well as agro-industrial use. The botanical aspects and morphological characteristics of OFI enable genetic variability, ecological adaptation, and broad geographic distribution. Due to its physicochemical and nutritional composition, it has several medicinal properties appropriate (or suitable) for several industries, such as pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics. Its fruit, the prickly pear (PP), has potential agro-industrial expansion through the application of different conservation and transformation methods, making it possible to obtain a variety of products. The PP is a source of several nutrients and is an effective system to produce varied foods, which have several advantages from a nutritional, sensory, economic, and shelf-life point of view. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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