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Keywords = scion–rootstock combination

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25 pages, 2872 KiB  
Article
Graft Compatibility of Local Grapevine Varieties with Grapevine Rootstocks in Yozgat Province
by Selda Daler, Tuğba Kılıç, Harlene Hatterman-Valenti and Ozkan Kaya
Horticulturae 2025, 11(7), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11070803 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 388
Abstract
Grafting compatibility between rootstocks and scions is a critical factor influencing the success of vine propagation and the long-term productivity of vineyards. This study aimed to evaluate the compatibility, sapling quality characteristics, and survival rates of grafted vines produced by combining ten local [...] Read more.
Grafting compatibility between rootstocks and scions is a critical factor influencing the success of vine propagation and the long-term productivity of vineyards. This study aimed to evaluate the compatibility, sapling quality characteristics, and survival rates of grafted vines produced by combining ten local grape cultivars from Yozgat Province with four rootstocks: ‘5 BB’, ‘41 B’, ‘1103 P’, and ‘Fercal’. Grafted vines were assessed based on callus formation, graft union success, root development, and overall sapling quality. The results revealed that the ‘Fercal’ rootstock exhibited superior compatibility with several cultivars, notably achieving 100% graft success with ‘Siyah Üzüm’ and a high sapling rate of 93.4% with ‘Gelinparmağı’. Strong performance was also observed in the ‘Fercal/Köledoyuran’ and ‘Fercal/Horoz Üzümü’ combinations, which produced sapling rates of 95.4%. While ‘5 BB’ performed well with ‘Parmak Üzümü’ (100% graft success), ‘Karagevrek’ (94.4%), and ‘Mor Bulut’, it showed poor results with ‘Gelinparmağı’ (66.5% sapling rate). The ‘1103 P’ rootstock demonstrated good compatibility with ‘Şahmuratlı’ (94.3% graft success) and ‘Kirpi Üzümü’. In contrast, although ‘41 B’ reached up to 100% graft success in some combinations, it exhibited variable sapling development potential, ranging from 46.2% to 80.0%. Among the cultivars, ‘Siyah Üzüm’ achieved 100% compatibility with three rootstocks (‘41 B’, ‘1103 P’, and ‘Fercal’), followed by ‘Köledoyuran’, which consistently showed high success rates ranging from 96.9% to 100%. These findings offer practical guidance for selecting optimal rootstock–scion combinations to improve the efficiency of grafted vine production and reduce losses, particularly for local grape cultivars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Rootstocks for Grape Production)
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17 pages, 6642 KiB  
Article
Synergistic Effects of Paenibacillus polymyxa NBmelon-1 Inoculation and Grafting Restructure of Rhizosphere Microbiome and Enhanced Disease Resistance in Melon Self-Rootstocks
by Wenjie Dong, Quanyu Zang, Yuhong Wang, Erlei Ma, Weihong Ding, Leiyan Yan and Fangmin Hao
Microorganisms 2025, 13(6), 1172; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13061172 - 22 May 2025
Viewed by 526
Abstract
Rhizosphere microorganisms play pivotal roles in mitigating the challenges associated with continuous cropping in melon cultivation. While grafting and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) independently influence rhizosphere microbial communities, their combined effects remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the synergistic regulation of Paenibacillus polymyxa [...] Read more.
Rhizosphere microorganisms play pivotal roles in mitigating the challenges associated with continuous cropping in melon cultivation. While grafting and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) independently influence rhizosphere microbial communities, their combined effects remain largely unexplored. This study investigates the synergistic regulation of Paenibacillus polymyxa NBmelon-1 inoculation and grafting on rhizosphere microbiome assembly, plant performance, and disease resistance in melon self-rootstocks. Field experiments demonstrated that NBmelon-1 inoculation significantly enhanced rootstock stem diameter (95.3% increase in spring) and root development, achieving a graft survival rate exceeding 95%. The combined treatment (NB+GJ) increased scion fruit yield by 29.8% in autumn and 36.5% in spring, as well as the single-fruit weight by 22.5% in autumn and 37.3% in spring, while maintaining fruit morphology. Integrated 16S rRNA and ITS sequencing revealed that the NB+GJ treatment selectively enriched antagonistic bacterial phyla (e.g., Firmicutes and Actinobacteriota) and suppressed pathogenic fungi (e.g., Fusarium and Melanconiella). Seasonal shifts in microbial diversity and functional gene profiles underscored the dynamic interplay between treatments and environmental factors. These findings establish a novel strategy for optimizing melon self-rootstock grafting systems and sustainably managing soil-borne diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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17 pages, 948 KiB  
Article
Revealing the Influence of Rootstock Choice on Clementine Mandarin Leaves and Peel Volatile Profile
by Vasileios Ziogas, Evgenia Panou, Konstantia Graikou, Christos Ganos, Evgenia Ntamposi and Ioanna Chinou
Horticulturae 2025, 11(5), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11050523 - 13 May 2025
Viewed by 413
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of rootstock selection on the essential oil (EO) composition of clementine mandarin (Citrus clementina Hort. ex Tan.) var. SRA 63 cultivated in southern Greece. EOs were extracted from the peel and leaves of trees grafted on four [...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of rootstock selection on the essential oil (EO) composition of clementine mandarin (Citrus clementina Hort. ex Tan.) var. SRA 63 cultivated in southern Greece. EOs were extracted from the peel and leaves of trees grafted on four commonly used rootstocks: Cleopatra mandarin, sour orange, Troyer citrange, and Swingle citrumelo. The GC-MS analysis revealed significant qualitative and quantitative differences in EO profiles across the different rootstock combinations. In peel EOs, limonene was the dominant compound, particularly in trees grafted onto Cleopatra mandarin and Swingle citrumelo, while Troyer citrange favored a more diverse chemical profile rich in oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and aldehydes. Leaf EOs were characterized by high levels of sabinene, linalool, and limonene, with Swingle citrumelo promoting sabinene production and Troyer citrange enhancing limonene content and sesquiterpene diversity. Sour orange showed an intermediate effect, increasing both compound diversity and abundance. These results underscore the critical role played by rootstock in modulating the biosynthesis of volatile compounds, likely through physiological and molecular interactions with the scion. These findings offer valuable insights into optimizing EO yield and quality in citriculture and support the broader goal of valorizing Citrus by-products through targeted agricultural practices. This research contributes to the implementation of targeted agricultural practices (rootstock choice) for the development of high-value Citrus-based products with specific quality traits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)
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18 pages, 2427 KiB  
Article
The Status of Esca Disease and the Disinfection of the Scion Prior to Grafting Affect the Phenolic Composition and Phenylpropanoid-Related Enzymes in the Callus of Vine Hetero-Grafts
by Saša Krošelj, Maja Mikulic-Petkovsek, Matevž Likar, Andreja Škvarč, Heidi Halbwirth, Katerina Biniari and Denis Rusjan
Horticulturae 2025, 11(4), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11040371 - 30 Mar 2025
Viewed by 445
Abstract
Vegetative propagation of European grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) requires grafting onto American rootstocks due to susceptibility to phylloxera. However, the grafting yield is compromised by the presence of grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) such as Esca. This study investigates the phenolic response and [...] Read more.
Vegetative propagation of European grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) requires grafting onto American rootstocks due to susceptibility to phylloxera. However, the grafting yield is compromised by the presence of grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) such as Esca. This study investigates the phenolic response and enzyme activity in grapevine callus from grafts obtained by scions with different GTD status (healthy, asymptomatic, and symptomatic) treated with different disinfection methods (Beltanol, Beltanol in combination with thermotherapy, Serenade® ASO, Remedier, BioAction ES, and sodium bicarbonate). Twenty-three phenolic compounds were identified in the graft callus, with flavanols, stilbenes, and condensed tannins predominating. Scion disinfection with BioAction ES led to a significant increase in total phenolic content in the callus, especially in symptomatic scions, for on average 510.3 µg/g fresh weight (FW) higher total phenolic content, compared to grafts where scions were treated with Beltanol. Phenolics such as epicatechin gallate, procyanidin derivatives, and resveratrol hexoside were significantly increased, indicating a strong elicitor effect of BioAction ES. Enzymatic activity analysis showed that the disinfection methods affected the activity of key enzymes involved in the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway. In particular, BioAction ES significantly increased phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activity in callus from grafts with healthy scions by 3.4-fold and flavanone 3β-hydroxylase (FHT) activity in callus from grafts with infected scions by 4.9-fold (asymptomatic) and 6.9-fold (symptomatic) compared to callus from grafts with Beltanol-treated scions. The results highlight the potential of environmentally friendly disinfection methods, particularly BioAction ES, in influencing phenolic content and enzymatic activity in graft callus, potentially affecting the success of grapevine grafting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Pathogens in Horticultural Crops)
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19 pages, 3532 KiB  
Review
Bridging the Gap: Genetic Insights into Graft Compatibility for Enhanced Kiwifruit Production
by Iqra Ashraf, Guido Cipriani and Gloria De Mori
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(7), 2925; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26072925 - 24 Mar 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 637
Abstract
Kiwifruit, with its unique flavor, nutritional value, and economic benefits, has gained significant attention in agriculture production. Kiwifruit plants have traditionally been propagated without grafting, but recently, grafting has become a more common practice. A new and complex disease called Kiwifruit Vine Decline [...] Read more.
Kiwifruit, with its unique flavor, nutritional value, and economic benefits, has gained significant attention in agriculture production. Kiwifruit plants have traditionally been propagated without grafting, but recently, grafting has become a more common practice. A new and complex disease called Kiwifruit Vine Decline Syndrome (KVDS) has emerged in different kiwifruit-growing areas. The syndrome was first recognized in Italy, although similar symptoms had been observed in New Zealand during the 1990s before subsequently spreading worldwide. While kiwifruit was not initially grafted in commercial orchards, the expansion of cultivation into regions with heavy soils or other challenging environmental conditions may make grafting selected kiwifruit cultivars onto KVDS-resistant or -tolerant rootstocks essential for the future of this crop. Grafting is a common horticultural practice, widely used to propagate several commercially important fruit crops, including kiwifruits, apples, grapes, citrus, peaches, apricots, and vegetables. Grafting methods and genetic compatibility have a crucial impact on fruit quality, yield, environmental adaptability, and disease resistance. Achieving successful compatibility involves a series of steps. During grafting, some scion/rootstock combinations exhibit poor graft compatibility, preventing the formation of a successful graft union. Identifying symptoms of graft incompatibility can be challenging, as they are not always evident in the first year after grafting. The causes of graft incompatibility are still largely unknown, especially in the case of kiwifruit. This review aims to examine the mechanisms of graft compatibility and incompatibility across different fruit crops. This review’s goal is to identify potential markers and techniques that could enhance grafting success and boost the commercial production of kiwifruit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Fruit Tree Physiology, Breeding and Genetic Research)
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20 pages, 4839 KiB  
Article
Prediction of Foliar Nutrient Contents and Differentiation of Scion/Rootstock Combinations in Citrus via X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
by Maíra Ferreira de Melo Rossi, Eduane José de Pádua, Renata Andrade Reis, Pedro Henrique Reis Vilela, Marco Aurélio Carbone Carneiro, Nilton Curi, Sérgio Henrique Godinho Silva and Ana Claudia Costa Baratti
AgriEngineering 2025, 7(3), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering7030079 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 678
Abstract
Citriculture has worldwide importance, and monitoring the nutritional status of plants through leaf analysis is essential. Recently, proximal sensing has supported this process, although there is a lack of studies conducted specifically for citrus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Citriculture has worldwide importance, and monitoring the nutritional status of plants through leaf analysis is essential. Recently, proximal sensing has supported this process, although there is a lack of studies conducted specifically for citrus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the application of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) combined with machine learning algorithms to predict the nutrient content (B, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, S, and Zn) of citrus leaves, using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) results as a reference. Additionally, the study aimed to differentiate 15 citrus scion/rootstock combinations via pXRF results and investigate the effect of the sample condition (fresh or dried leaves) on the accuracy of pXRF predictions. The samples were analyzed with pXRF both fresh and after drying and grinding. Subsequently, the samples underwent acid digestion and analysis via ICP-OES. Predictions using dried leaves yielded better results (R2 from 0.71 to 0.96) than those using fresh leaves (R2 from 0.35 to 0.87) for all analyzed elements. Predictions of scion/rootstock combinations were also more accurate with dry leaves (Overall accuracy = 0.64, kappa index = 0.62). The pXRF accurately predicted nutrient contents in citrus leaves and differentiated leaves from 15 scion/rootstock combinations. This can significantly reduce costs and time in the nutritional assessment of citrus crops. Full article
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28 pages, 9556 KiB  
Article
Transcriptome Profiling Reveals the Effects of Rootstocks on Scion Architecture in Malus domestica Borkh Var. ‘Harlikar’
by Bin Xie, Junhao Li, Jiangtao Zhou, Guodong Kang, Zhongwen Tang, Xiaojian Ma, Xin Li, Jing Wang, Yanzhen Zhang, Yanhui Chen, Sumiao Yang and Cungang Cheng
Plants 2025, 14(5), 696; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14050696 - 24 Feb 2025
Viewed by 607
Abstract
Rootstocks largely determine the tree architecture of the grafted scions, significantly affects yield, suitability for mechanical harvesting, and planting pattern of apple orchards. It is thus important to reveal the mechanisms behind the rootstocks influence on the tree architecture of scions in apple [...] Read more.
Rootstocks largely determine the tree architecture of the grafted scions, significantly affects yield, suitability for mechanical harvesting, and planting pattern of apple orchards. It is thus important to reveal the mechanisms behind the rootstocks influence on the tree architecture of scions in apple trees. This study analyzed the grafting survival rate, the physiological parameters including plant growth, photosynthesis and nutrient accumulation in the apple variety ‘Harlikar’ with eight apple rootstocks. We also explored the mechanism of scion architecture formation using transcriptomics based on different scion/rootstock combinations. The results indicated that ‘Harlikar’ had the lowest grafting survival rate with rootstock ‘M26’, with less callus formed at the graft interface, foliage etiolation, and weak photosynthetic capacity. While ‘Harlikar’ had better affinities with ‘M9-T337’, ‘M9-Nic29’, ‘M9-Pajam2’, ‘B9’, ‘71-3-150’, ‘Qingzhen 2’, and ‘Malus baccata’. Among these, the highest plant height and the highest number of lateral branches were observed in ‘Harlikar’ with rootstock ‘Qingzhen 2’, they were 1.12-times and 2.0-times higher than ‘Harlikar’ with vigorous rootstock ‘M. baccata’, respectively. The highest accumulations of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and total potassium in scions were observed in ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’, they were 2.22-times, 2.10-times, and 11.80-times higher than that in ‘Harlikar’/‘M. baccata’. The lowest plant height was observed in ‘Harlikar’/‘71-3-150’, only 50.47% of ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’ and 56.51% of ‘Harlikar’/‘M. baccata’, and the lowest internode length was observed in ‘Harlikar’/‘M9-Nic29’, only 60.76% of ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’ and 79.11% of ‘Harlikar’/‘M. baccata’. The transcriptome, weighted gene co-expression network and KEGG enrichment analyses revealed that, compared to ‘Harlikar’/‘M. baccata’, most differentially expressed genes screened from ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’, ‘Harlikar’/‘71-3-150’, and ‘Harlikar’/‘M9-Nic29’ were enriched in hormone signal transduction pathways. Specifically, auxin-repressed protein gene ARP, cytokinin synthesis related genes CKXs and CYP92A6, and brassinosteroid synthesis related gene CYP87A3 were involved in the dwarfing of ‘Harlikar’/‘71-3-150’ and ‘Harlikar’/‘M9-Nic29’. Cytokinin synthesis related gene ARR-A and abscisic acid-responsive element binding factor gene ABF were the key to increased branching in ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’. In addition, acid phosphatase genes ACPs, and serine/threonine-protein kinase genes PBLs were involved in the vegetative growth of scions in ‘Harlikar’/‘Qingzhen 2’ by affecting the absorption and utilization of nutrients. These results provide theoretical guidance for cultivating high-quality ‘Harlikar’ apple trees and elucidate the molecular mechanisms regulating plant height and lateral branch formation in apple. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effect of Rootstocks and Planting Systems on Fruit Quality)
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20 pages, 10761 KiB  
Article
Interstock-Mediated Graft Incompatibility: Insights into Photosynthetic Pigments, Carbohydrates, Antioxidant Defense Systems, and Hormones Response Mechanisms in Citrus
by Tie Wang, Zhenghua Jin, Ya Yuan, Lijun Deng, Guochao Sun, Siya He, Ling Liao, Jun Wang, Bo Xiong and Zhihui Wang
Plants 2025, 14(4), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14040522 - 8 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 751
Abstract
Interstock, located between rootstock and scion, plays a critical role in determining graft compatibility. This study aimed to elucidate the physiological mechanisms mediated by interstock in graft compatibility by comparing various leaf and root system parameters between compatible and incompatible graft combinations. These [...] Read more.
Interstock, located between rootstock and scion, plays a critical role in determining graft compatibility. This study aimed to elucidate the physiological mechanisms mediated by interstock in graft compatibility by comparing various leaf and root system parameters between compatible and incompatible graft combinations. These parameters included growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, carbohydrates, antioxidant enzyme systems, and hormones. The study found that both PG (‘Yuanxiaochun’/‘Ponkan’/‘Trifoliate orange’) and JJ (‘Yuanxiaochun’/‘Kumquat’/‘Trifoliate orange’) treatments exhibited a noticeable phenomenon of “small feet” (scion diameter exceeding interstock), indicating mild graft incompatibility. Compared to grafted compatibility groups, chlorophyll content in PG and JJ treatments leaves was significantly reduced, particularly in carotenoids (Car). Additionally, PG and JJ treatments leaves showed lower levels of total soluble sugars, fructose, sucrose, gibberellin A4, zeatin-Riboside, and N6-(delta2-isopentenyl) adenosine, as well as catalase (CAT) activity. In contrast, peroxidase (POD) activity, glucose, soluble proteins, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), aminocyclopropane carboxylic acid, and abscisic acid content were higher. In roots, PG and JJ treatments had elevated starch, sucrose, jasmonic acid, and jasmonic acid-isoleucine content, but showed lower levels of total soluble sugars, MDA, indole-3-acetic acid, and abscisic acid. Comprehensive analysis revealed that total soluble sugar content in both leaves and roots under PG and JJ treatments were reduced. These findings offer valuable insights into enhancing citrus grafting practices, particularly by guiding the selection of compatible rootstock-scion combinations. By elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying graft compatibility, this research enables researchers and growers to refine grafting strategies, thereby improving citrus grafting success rates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Crop Physiology and Crop Production)
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13 pages, 780 KiB  
Article
Effects of Grafting with Different Rootstocks on Fruit Yield and Quality of Muskmelon Under Continuous Cropping
by Hongxia Ye, Caiyu Zhang and Bingliang Wang
Horticulturae 2025, 11(2), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11020183 - 8 Feb 2025
Viewed by 919
Abstract
Grafting is a promising approach to control melon fusarium wilt disease. However, there is a potential risk of deterioration in the quality of melon fruit due to scion–rootstock interactions. Using two primary muskmelon cultivars, ‘ZheTian 105’ (ZT105) and ‘ZheTian 401’ (ZT401) in Zhejiang [...] Read more.
Grafting is a promising approach to control melon fusarium wilt disease. However, there is a potential risk of deterioration in the quality of melon fruit due to scion–rootstock interactions. Using two primary muskmelon cultivars, ‘ZheTian 105’ (ZT105) and ‘ZheTian 401’ (ZT401) in Zhejiang Province as scion, and taking one squash (interspecific hybrids between Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata) ‘Sizhuang No.12’ (SZ12) and four melon, ‘YongZhen No 9’ (YZ9), ‘XiaTe’ (XT), ‘ZhenTian No 1’ (ZT1), and ‘T1-151’ (T1) as rootstock, the yield and fruit quality including total soluble solid content (SSC), flesh texture, and flavor of grafted melon were measured, compared with non-grafted melon. The results indicated there was no significant difference in single fruit weight among the grafted melon and non-grafted melon plants, while the yield of most grafted melon plants was significantly higher than that of the non-grafted ones. No significant differences were observed in SSC and flesh texture among the grafted and non-grafted melon plants. The fruit of the “ZT401/SZ12” combination exhibited peculiar odors reminiscent of pumpkin flavor, negatively affecting edibility, whereas the fruit of the “ZT105/SZ12” combination did not. Considering both yield and fruit quality, the results indicated that the squash rootstock “SZ12” and the melon rootstocks “ZT1” are suitable for grafting with the muskmelon cultivar “ZT105”, while the melon rootstocks “ZT1” and “T1” are appropriate for grafting with the muskmelon cultivar “ZT401”. The results of this research are of considerable significance for the sustainable cultivation of the cultivars “ZT105” and “ZT401”, particularly under continuous cropping conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Genetic Engineering and Quality Improvement in Vegetable Crops)
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19 pages, 2228 KiB  
Article
Genotypic Differences Among Scions and Rootstocks Involved with Oxidative Damage and Ionic Toxicity in Cashew Plants Under Salinity
by Eugênio Silva Araújo Júnior, Anselmo Ferreira Silva, Josemir Moura Maia, Elania Freire da Silva, Alexandre Maniçoba da Rosa Ferraz Jardim, Hugo Rafael Bentzen Santos, Carlos Alberto Vieira Souza, Adriano do Nascimento Simões, Eduardo Souza and Sérgio Luiz Ferreira-Silva
Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121341 - 14 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 722
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of scion/rootstock genotypes on ionic toxicity, oxidative damage, and photosynthesis in cashew plants subjected to salt stress. Scion/rootstock combinations (CCP 76/CCP 76, CCP 76/CCP 09, CCP 09/CCP 09 and CCP 09/CCP 76) were [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of scion/rootstock genotypes on ionic toxicity, oxidative damage, and photosynthesis in cashew plants subjected to salt stress. Scion/rootstock combinations (CCP 76/CCP 76, CCP 76/CCP 09, CCP 09/CCP 09 and CCP 09/CCP 76) were obtained by reciprocal grafting between two genotypes (CCP 76 and CCP 09) of dwarf cashew and subjected to increased NaCl (0, 50 and 100 mM) for 30 days. Plants with CCP 76 scions had higher leaf fresh weights compared to plants with CCP 09 scions in both moderate (50 mM)- and high (100 mM)-salinity conditions. Under moderate levels of salinity, CCP 76 scions showed lower stomatal conductance, which is associated with weaker leaf toxicity symptoms, as well as lower Na+ content and higher K+ content in the leaves. Thus, the better foliar exclusion of Na+ by CCP 76 scions can be attributed to greater stomatal control, which allows for better growth and sufficient foliar K+ nutrition to mitigate foliar toxicity. Under high levels of salinity, a reduction in net photosynthesis occurred in all scion/rootstock combinations, which was apparently due to stomatal and non-stomatal restrictions. The activities of the oxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase—SOD; ascorbate peroxidase—APX; and phenol peroxidase—POD) were little influenced by salinity, while there was a significant increase in the non-enzymatic antioxidants ascorbate (AsA) and glutathione (GSH). In addition, a reduction in photochemical activity was observed under saline conditions, suggesting that photosystems possess a potential protective mechanism. It was observed that the stomatal closure exhibited by the CCP 76 scion genotype may exert relative control over the flow of Na+ to the shoots under salt stress conditions. Taken together, the data show that, in the two genotypes evaluated, oxidative protection was more associated with reduced photochemical activity and higher levels of non-enzymatic antioxidants (AsA and GSH) than it was with the SOD-APX-POD enzymatic system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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15 pages, 2800 KiB  
Article
Leaf Aquaporin Expression in Grafted Plants and the Influence of Genotypes and Scion/Rootstock Combinations on Stomatal Behavior in Grapevines Under Water Deficit
by Andrea Galaz, Alonso G. Pérez-Donoso and Marina Gambardella
Plants 2024, 13(23), 3427; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13233427 - 6 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 897
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of water stress on grapevines, specifically examining the role of rootstocks and aquaporins. Two experiments on potted plants were conducted in central Chile during the summer, under conditions of high water demand, involving various rootstock genotypes and combinations [...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of water stress on grapevines, specifically examining the role of rootstocks and aquaporins. Two experiments on potted plants were conducted in central Chile during the summer, under conditions of high water demand, involving various rootstock genotypes and combinations of Cabernet Sauvignon (CS) grafted onto rootstocks. Significant differences were observed among plants in terms of stem water potential, stomatal conductance, and growth rate. Notably, the CS/CS combination consistently displayed the slowest growth rate, regardless of the irrigation treatment. The study also analyzed the expression levels of plasma membrane intrinsic protein (PIP) and tonoplast intrinsic protein (TIP) aquaporins in the leaves of grafted plants. Specifically, VvPIP2;2 aquaporins showed reduced expression after 14 days without irrigation, whereas VvTIP1;1 and VvTIP2;1 expression levels correlated positively with gs responses in grafted plants, suggesting their role in modulating water content in leaves under water stress. TIP aquaporins likely play a significant role in the differential responses of CS plants towards near-isohydric or anisohydric behavior. The CS/CS combination exhibited near-isohydric behavior, correlating with lower TIP aquaporin expression, while the combination of CS onto 1103P and 101-14 showed higher expression, indicating anisohydric behavior. The findings suggest that grafted plants are more resilient to water stress, supporting the idea that rootstocks can mitigate the effects of water stress on the scion. Full article
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23 pages, 6497 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Grafting with Different Rootstocks on Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) Growth and Its Rhizosphere Soil Microecology
by Gongfu Du, Dan Zhu, Huang He, Xiaoliang Li, Yan Yang and Zhiqiang Qi
Agronomy 2024, 14(11), 2616; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14112616 - 6 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1649
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of grafting on eggplant growth, yield, and disease resistance, with a focus on microbial dynamics in the rhizosphere. Eggplant scions were grafted onto rootstocks of wild eggplant and tomato, with self-rooted eggplants serving as controls. Greenhouse experiments were [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of grafting on eggplant growth, yield, and disease resistance, with a focus on microbial dynamics in the rhizosphere. Eggplant scions were grafted onto rootstocks of wild eggplant and tomato, with self-rooted eggplants serving as controls. Greenhouse experiments were conducted over an eight-month growing period, using standard field practices such as film mulching and integrated water–fertilizer management. High-throughput sequencing was used to analyze the biological properties and microbial community of the rhizosphere soil. Results showed that plants grafted onto ‘Huimei Zhenba’ and ‘Torvum’ rootstocks yielded up to 36.89% more than self-rooted controls, achieving yields of 4619.59 kg and 4399.73 kg per 667 m², respectively. The disease incidence of bacterial wilt was reduced to as low as 3.33% in the ‘Huimei Zhenba’ treatment, compared to 55.56% in non-grafted controls. Additionally, grafted plants exhibited increased stem diameter and chlorophyll content, with the TL/HM combination reaching 54.23 ± 3.17 SPAD units. The enhanced microbial biomass of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, particularly in the TL/HM treatment (377.59 mg/kg, 28.31 mg/kg, and 36.30 mg/kg, respectively), supports a more nutrient-rich rhizosphere environment. Moreover, soil enzyme activities, such as β-glucosidase and phosphatase, were significantly higher in grafted plants, enhancing nutrient cycling and potentially increasing resistance to pathogens. Overall, grafted eggplants demonstrated enhanced soil microbial biomass, enzyme activity, and a more diverse microbial community, which are critical factors contributing to the improved yield and disease resistance observed in grafted crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)
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23 pages, 7035 KiB  
Article
Growing Tomato Seedlings Suitable for Mechanical Grafting under Regulated Light Regime
by Yichi Wang, Hongxuan Deng, Huiwen Li, Lidan Ma, Tao He, Zhenquan Yao, Zeyi Mu, Song Gu and Yinghui Mu
Agronomy 2024, 14(10), 2322; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14102322 - 9 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1126
Abstract
The uniformity of growth and mechanical properties of grafted seedlings affect the quality of mechanical grafting operations. The growth uniformity of grafted seedlings in a greenhouse will be poor due to the uneven and unstable light and temperature conditions. Plant factories can cultivate [...] Read more.
The uniformity of growth and mechanical properties of grafted seedlings affect the quality of mechanical grafting operations. The growth uniformity of grafted seedlings in a greenhouse will be poor due to the uneven and unstable light and temperature conditions. Plant factories can cultivate grafted seedlings in the most suitable environment by regulating environmental parameters such as light and temperature. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the light conditions on tomato seedlings in plant factory and to develop an optimal cultivation light formula. The effects of light intensity (50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 μmol m−2 s−2) and photoperiod (10, 12, 14, 16, and 18 h a day(h/d)) on the morphological and mechanical properties of tomato seedlings were experimentally investigated. Orthogonal experiments were conducted involving light quality (R:B = 75:25, R:B = 50:50, and R:B = 25:75), light intensity (150 μmol m−2 s−2, 200 μmol m−2 s−2, and 250 μmol m−2 s−2), and photoperiod (14, 16, and 18 h/d) as independent variables to determine the optimal combination. Finally, a comparative grafting experiment was conducted between the seedlings cultivated using the optimal light formula and commercially available seedlings. The result showed that increasing light intensity inhibited hypocotyl length and promoted seedling stem growth, and excessive light intensity decreased seedling mechanical properties. The optimal light intensity for rootstocks is 200 μmol m−2 s−2, and the optimal light intensity for scions is 250 μmol m−2 s−2. Shortening the photoperiod would promote hypocotyl growth and inhibit seedling stem elongation. Different photoperiods had a significant impact on the mechanical properties of tomato seedlings. The most suitable photoperiod for rootstocks was 18 h/d and for scions was 16 h/d. The most suitable light formula was R:B = 50:50, 250 μmol m−2 s−2, 18 h/d. By analyzing the experimental results, the mechanical properties of seedlings grown by the regulated light environment were better than those of commercially available seedlings, and the success rate of mechanical grafting was 7% higher. Overall, in plant factories compared to commercially available tomato seedlings, tomato seedlings cultivated by the regulated light environment were more suitable for mechanical grafting. This research result provides theoretical support for subsequent research on grafting machinery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Biosystem and Biological Engineering)
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32 pages, 7931 KiB  
Article
Comparative Stem Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Pathways Associated with Drought Tolerance in Maritime Pine Grafts
by Lorenzo Federico Manjarrez, Nuria de María, María Dolores Vélez, José Antonio Cabezas, José Antonio Mancha, Paula Ramos, Alberto Pizarro, Endika Blanco-Urdillo, Miriam López-Hinojosa, Irene Cobo-Simón, María Ángeles Guevara, María Carmen Díaz-Sala and María Teresa Cervera
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(18), 9926; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25189926 - 14 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1432
Abstract
The maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) is a highly valuable Mediterranean conifer. However, recurrent drought events threaten its propagation and conservation. P. pinaster populations exhibit remarkable differences in drought tolerance. To explore these differences, we analyzed stem transcriptional profiles of grafts combining [...] Read more.
The maritime pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) is a highly valuable Mediterranean conifer. However, recurrent drought events threaten its propagation and conservation. P. pinaster populations exhibit remarkable differences in drought tolerance. To explore these differences, we analyzed stem transcriptional profiles of grafts combining genotypes with contrasting drought responses under well-watered and water-stress regimes. Our analysis underscored that P. pinaster drought tolerance is mainly associated with constitutively expressed genes, which vary based on genotype provenance. However, we identified key genes encoding proteins involved in water stress response, abscisic acid signaling, and growth control including a PHD chromatin regulator, a histone deubiquitinase, the ABI5-binding protein 3, and transcription factors from Myb-related, DOF NAC and LHY families. Additionally, we identified that drought-tolerant rootstock could enhance the drought tolerance of sensitive scions by regulating the accumulation of transcripts involved in carbon mobilization, osmolyte biosynthesis, flavonoid and terpenoid metabolism, and reactive oxygen species scavenging. These included genes encoding galactinol synthase, CBL-interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 5, BEL1-like homeodomain protein, dihydroflavonol 4-reductase, and 1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate. Our results revealed several hub genes that could help us to understand the molecular and physiological response to drought of conifers. Based on all the above, grafting with selected drought-tolerant rootstocks is a promising method for propagating elite recalcitrant conifer species, such as P. pinaster. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Genetics and Molecular Breeding in Plants)
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10 pages, 1022 KiB  
Article
Rootstock Effects on Fruit Yield and Quality of ‘BRS Tainá’ Seedless Table Grape in Semi-Arid Tropical Conditions
by Carlos Roberto Silva de Oliveira, Antônio Francisco de Mendonca Junior and Patrícia Coelho de Souza Leão
Plants 2024, 13(16), 2314; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13162314 - 20 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1120
Abstract
In viticulture, choosing the most suitable rootstock for a specific scion cultivar is an efficient and cost-effective way to increase yield and enhance the physicochemical characteristics of the fruit. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance of the ‘BRS [...] Read more.
In viticulture, choosing the most suitable rootstock for a specific scion cultivar is an efficient and cost-effective way to increase yield and enhance the physicochemical characteristics of the fruit. The objective of this study was to evaluate the agronomic performance of the ‘BRS Tainá’ grapevine on different rootstocks under the conditions of the Sub-Middle São Francisco Valley. The main experimental factor consisted of eight rootstocks (IAC 313, IAC 572, IAC 766, 101-14 MgT, Paulsen 1103, Ramsey, SO4, and Teleki 5C), arranged in randomized blocks with four replicates. The experiment was conducted over four production cycles, from 2021 to 2023, in a commercial crop area in Petrolina, PE, Brazil. There were significant effects of rootstocks for the yield and number of bunches per plant, as well as berry length and firmness. ‘BRS Tainá’ achieved the highest yield (22.2 kg per plant) when grafted onto the Paulsen 1103 rootstock, which was superior to the yield on 101-14 MgT, IAC 313, and IAC 572 rootstocks. The highest number of bunches (88) was obtained with ‘BRS Tainá’ grafted on Paulsen 1103, while the lowest number (63) was obtained on IAC 572; both these rootstocks were not significantly different from the other rootstocks. For all scion–rootstock combinations, the mean values for soluble solid (SS) content, titratable acidity (TA), and the SS/TA ratio were similar to those previously described for ‘BRS Tainá’, meeting the commercialization standard. The results for the yield and number of bunches per plant indicate the suitability of grafting ‘BRS Tainá’ on Paulsen 1103 under the semi-arid tropical conditions of the São Francisco Valley. Full article
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