Horticulturae

15 pages, 4661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification and Male Sterility-Related Expression Analysis of Papain-like Cysteine Protease Gene Family in Capsicum annuum

by Rong Chen, Benqi Wang, Shuping Huang, Xia Chen, Jie Tan, Hongyuan Zhang, Junliang Wang and Min Zhang

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080892 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 529

Abstract

PLCPs (papain-like cysteine proteases) are one of the most abundant groups of cysteine proteases and play vital roles in multiple processes. The pepper (Capsicum annuum) is an important Solanaceae vegetable crop; its commercial hybrid seeds are widely used in production. Male [...] Read more.

PLCPs (papain-like cysteine proteases) are one of the most abundant groups of cysteine proteases and play vital roles in multiple processes. The pepper (Capsicum annuum) is an important Solanaceae vegetable crop; its commercial hybrid seeds are widely used in production. Male sterility is a valuable trait for hybrid seed production. However, the function of PLCPs and the underlying mechanisms of male sterility in peppers remain unclear. In this study, we comprehensively identified the PLCP gene family in peppers, identifying 31 CaPLCPs. A phylogenetic analysis classified 31 members into eight clades. These CaPLCPs were unevenly distributed across eight chromosomes, and five segmental duplicated pairs were observed. The promoter cis-acting element analysis indicated that CaPLCP promoters contained abundant hormone-responsive and stress-responsive cis-elements, suggesting that CaPLCPs may play important roles in responding to abiotic stress, such as drought and low temperatures, as well as in plant immunity. The qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated that the expression levels of CaPLCP1, CaPLCP5, CaPLCP11, CaPLCP12, CaPLCP13, CaPLCP17, CaPLCP19, and CaPLCP21 were significantly reduced in the flowers of MS (male sterile pepper) at least at one stage, indicating their potential roles as regulatory factors in pepper male sterility. These findings provide important insights into the functional analysis of the PLCP gene family in peppers and other species, laying a crucial foundation for understanding the mechanisms of male sterility in peppers. Full article

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

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13 pages, 2759 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticu: A Newly Identified Source of Lactucaxanthin (ε,ε-Carotene-3,3′-diol)

by Ramesh Kumar Saini, Eun-Young Ko, Young-Soo Keum, Ji-Ho Lee, Se Chul Chun and Iyyakkannu Sivanesan

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080891 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 588

Abstract

Green leafy vegetables are rich in lipophilic metabolites such as carotenoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, and fatty acids, known for their significant health benefits. Goat’s beard (Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticus), a wild leafy vegetable native to Ulleungdo Island, South Korea, is reported to [...] Read more.

Green leafy vegetables are rich in lipophilic metabolites such as carotenoids, phytosterols, tocopherols, and fatty acids, known for their significant health benefits. Goat’s beard (Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticus), a wild leafy vegetable native to Ulleungdo Island, South Korea, is reported to possess various biological activities and bioactive compounds. However, the content and profiles of lipophilic metabolites, especially carotenoids, have not been reported. This study investigated the composition of lipophilic metabolites in the foliage of goat’s beard using liquid chromatography–diode-array detection–mass spectrometry, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography–flame ionization detection. Five carotenoids (violaxanthin, neoxanthin, lactucaxanthin, lutein, β-carotene) and α-tocopherol were identified and quantified using liquid chromatography–diode-array detection–mass spectrometry. Lactucaxanthin, previously discovered in lettuce, was identified for the first time in goat’s beard foliage, with a higher concentration (45.42 ± 0.80 µg/g FW) compared to red lettuce (19.05 ± 0.67 µg/g FW). Furthermore, total carotenoids and α-tocopherol contents were higher in goat’s beard than in red lettuce. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis showed the presence of three phytosterols, namely, campesterol (3.53 ± 0.20 µg/g FW), stigmasterol (65.30 ± 4.87 µg/g FW), and β-sitosterol (89.54 ± 2.46 µg/g FW). Gas chromatography–flame ionization detection analysis revealed the presence of five essential fatty acids, with α-linolenic acid (57.03 ± 0.47%) being the most abundant, contributing to a favorable polyunsaturated FA/saturated FA ratio. These findings underscore the nutritional potential of a goat’s beard, suggesting its promising use in dietary supplements and the commercial extraction of valuable lipophilic antioxidants, particularly lactucaxanthin, for nutraceuticals and functional foods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemicals of Natural Products: Analysis and Biological Activities: 2nd Edition)

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15 pages, 1739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Elemental Diversity in Edible-Podded Peas: A Comparative Study of Pisum sativum L. var. macrocarpon and var. saccharatum through Principal Component Analysis, Correlation, and Cluster Analysis

by Saurabh Yadav, Rajinder Kumar Dhall, Hira Singh, Parteek Kumar, Dharminder Bhatia, Priyanka Kumari and Neha Rana

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080890 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 543

Abstract

This study assessed eleven elements in 24 edible-podded peas, including sugar snap pea and snow pea genotypes aiming to identify promising parents for nutraceutical breeding. Elemental concentrations of pods (dry weight basis) were estimated through inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The ranges [...] Read more.

This study assessed eleven elements in 24 edible-podded peas, including sugar snap pea and snow pea genotypes aiming to identify promising parents for nutraceutical breeding. Elemental concentrations of pods (dry weight basis) were estimated through inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The ranges for these elements varied significantly, highlighting the diverse elemental profiles within the edible-podded pea genotypes. All the elements exhibited a high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation along with considerable heritability and hereditary progress. Positive and significant correlations were recorded among all elements, suggesting the potential for simultaneous selection for these traits. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the first two components accounted for 80.56% of the variation. Further, cluster analysis, based on Euclidean distance, grouped the 24 cultivars into two major clusters. Cluster I exhibited higher means for all estimated concentrations compared to Cluster II. Notably, Dwarf Grey Sugar and Arka Sampoorna from the snap pea group and PED-21-5 and Sugar Snappy from the sugar snap pea in Cluster II demonstrated superior elemental concentration in whole pods. The selected edible-podded pea genotypes serve as valuable genetic resources for new cultivar development, particularly in biofortification efforts targeting whole pod nutrient composition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Disease Resistance and Crop Quality through Innovative Breeding Approaches)

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10 pages, 1381 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mutagenesis and Flowering Promotion through Sodium Azide In Vitro Culture of Cymbidium faberi Rolfe

by Zhengjing Wu, Sujuan Liu, Bingjie An, Hao Zhang, Jingjing Wu, Chenfang Li and Yuan Long

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 889; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080889 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 542

Abstract

Cymbidium faberi Rolfe is one of the traditional Chinese orchids with important ornamental value, and the cultivation of Cymbidium faberi Rolfe mutant strains with different appearances is essential to increase its economic value. However, at present, their acquisition largely relies on natural mutation. [...] Read more.

Cymbidium faberi Rolfe is one of the traditional Chinese orchids with important ornamental value, and the cultivation of Cymbidium faberi Rolfe mutant strains with different appearances is essential to increase its economic value. However, at present, their acquisition largely relies on natural mutation. The objectives of this research were to mutagenize Cymbidium faberi Rolfe protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) and shoots in vitro using sodium azide (NaN₃) and to screen and evaluate mutants in the mutagenized seedlings using morphological characteristics. Cymbidium faberi Rolfe PLBs and shoots were used as mutagenic materials. Mutations were induced by the addition of 0.0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0 mg·L⁻¹ and 0.0 (control), 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, and 10.0 mg·L⁻¹ NaN₃ to a shoot-growth-inducing medium. The mortality rates of the PLBs and shoots increased with an increase in the NaN₃ concentration. At 14 d of co-cultivation, the PLBs and shoots were most efficiently mutagenized with 1.5 mg·L⁻¹ and 4.0 mg·L⁻¹ NaN₃, respectively. After the explants were cultured for 3 months, changes in leaf and flower morphology were observed in some mutants: shorter and thicker leaves, shorter node length, reduced height, and mid-translucent leaves compared with controls. Some Cymbidium faberi Rolfe bloomed prematurely, with single flowers with large, thick petal sepals and small inflorescences. Colors included light green throughout, with some exhibiting purple stamens. This suggests that NaN₃ can effectively mutagenize Cymbidium faberi Rolfe PLBs and shoots to satisfy people’s demand for this plant’s ornamental properties while increasing its economic value. Full article

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

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13 pages, 2849 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exiguobacterium acetylicum Strain SI17: A Potential Biocontrol Agent against Peronophythora litchii Causing Post-Harvest Litchi Downy Blight

by Shilian Huang, Xinmin Lv, Li Zheng and Dongliang Guo

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080888 - 22 Aug 2024

Viewed by 753

Abstract

Litchi downy blight (LDB) caused by Peronophythora litchii destroys 20–30% of litchi fruit every year and causes significant economic losses. Some Exiguobacterium strains exhibit considerable promise in both agricultural and industrial sectors. E. acetylicum SI17, isolated from the litchi fruit carposphere, demonstrated significant [...] Read more.

Litchi downy blight (LDB) caused by Peronophythora litchii destroys 20–30% of litchi fruit every year and causes significant economic losses. Some Exiguobacterium strains exhibit considerable promise in both agricultural and industrial sectors. E. acetylicum SI17, isolated from the litchi fruit carposphere, demonstrated significant biocontrol activity against LDB through pre-harvest treatment. To elucidate its underlying regulatory mechanisms, the genome of SI17 was sequenced and analyzed, revealing a circular chromosome spanning 3,157,929 bp and containing 3541 protein-coding genes and 101 RNA genes. Notably, 94 genes were implicated in the production of secondary metabolites. Among the 29 Exiguobacterium strains so far sequenced, SI17 possessed the largest genome. In the phylogenomic analysis encompassing the entire genome, SI17 was clustered into Group I. Treating litchi fruit with SI17 before harvesting resulted in a decrease in H₂O₂ content in the fruit peel and an increase in superoxide dismutase activity, thus enhancing resistance to LDB. Interestingly, SI17 did not display plate antagonism against Peronophythora litchii SC18. It can be inferred that SI17 generates secondary metabolites, which enhance litchi’s resistance to LDB. This study represents the first documentation of an Exiguobacterium strain exhibiting a role in litchi plant disease and showcasing significant potential for the biological control of LDB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Disease Diagnostics and Pathogen Biocontrol of Horticulture Crops)

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13 pages, 7063 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Functional Identification of the Isopentenyl Diphosphate Isomerase Gene from Fritillaria unibracteata

by Xinyi Yu, Jiao Chen, Han Yan, Xue Huang, Jieru Chen, Zichun Ma, Jiayu Zhou and Hai Liao

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080887 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 717

Abstract

Isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (IPI) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of isoprenoids. In this paper, the in vivo biological activity of the IPI gene from Fritillaria unibracteata (FuIPI) was investigated. Combining a color complementation experiment with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography analysis [...] Read more.

Isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase (IPI) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of isoprenoids. In this paper, the in vivo biological activity of the IPI gene from Fritillaria unibracteata (FuIPI) was investigated. Combining a color complementation experiment with High-Performance Liquid Chromatography analysis showed that the FuIPI gene could accumulate β-carotene in Escherichia coli, and Glu190 was identified as a key residue for its catalytic activity. Bioinformatics analysis together with subcellular localization indicated that the FuIPI protein was localized in chloroplasts. Compared with wild-type Arabidopsis thaliana, FuIPI transgenic plants had higher abscisic acid content and strengthening tolerance to drought and salt stress. Overall, these results indicated that the FuIPI gene had substantial biological activity in vivo, hopefully laying a foundation for its further research and application in liliaceous ornamental and medicinal plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tolerance and Response of Ornamental Plants to Abiotic Stress)

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27 pages, 882 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Crop Nutrition and Soil Fertility Management in Organic Potato Production Systems

by Anita Ierna and Miriam Distefano

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080886 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 2390

Abstract

Organic farming is a comprehensive production management system that fosters and improves the health of agroecosystems, encompassing biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a crucial crop in organic farming systems, standing out as one of [...] Read more.

Organic farming is a comprehensive production management system that fosters and improves the health of agroecosystems, encompassing biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a crucial crop in organic farming systems, standing out as one of the most highly demanded organic products on the market. Among all crops, with potatoes, there is a very large yield gap between organic and conventional systems, attributable mainly to its intensive nutrient demands. The present review, considering the most relevant scientific literature worldwide, discusses the contemporary state of knowledge on crop nutrition and soil fertility management in organic potato crop production, analyzing the effects of animal manures, green manures, organic amendments, and biostimulants on organic potato tuber yield and quality. Overall, the main findings show a particular combination is needed to effectively maintain good soil fertility, satisfy the nutritional needs of the crop, and overcome the difference in potato yield between organic and conventional farming methods while meeting consumer demand. This combination entails using an animal manure or leguminous green manure with an organic soil amendment, and even better with a biofertilizer, such as a mycorrhizae-fungus-based one. It also emerged that more targeted studies are needed to select appropriate cultivars for organic potato farming systems to optimize this environmentally friendly production method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Authenticity in Organic Horticultural Production: Recent Studies and Applications)

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17 pages, 2349 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Wounding Citrus Peel By-Products as Abiotic Stress to Induce the Synthesis of Phenolic Compounds?

by Rosa Zapata, Lorena Martínez-Zamora, Marina Cano-Lamadrid and Francisco Artés-Hernández

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080885 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 656

Abstract

Wounding stress stimulates secondary metabolism and induces the phytochemical accumulation of fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. This research aims to study the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in citrus peel by-products after different wounding intensities. Orange, grapefruit, and lemon peels were cut into rectangular shapes [...] Read more.

Wounding stress stimulates secondary metabolism and induces the phytochemical accumulation of fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. This research aims to study the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites in citrus peel by-products after different wounding intensities. Orange, grapefruit, and lemon peels were cut into rectangular shapes of 8.5 × 2 cm (CTRL), 1 × 1 cm dices (D), and 0.25 cm grates (G). Samples were stored at 15 °C and 65% relative humidity. Their total phenolic content (TPC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and individual organic and phenolic compounds were analyzed after 0, 4, 8, 24, 28, and 36 h. The results showed that the metabolite content decreased with the incubation time, so it is recommended to sample by-products between the first 8 h to achieve the maximum content. Grating, the most severe abiotic stress, was not a suitable technique to induce the synthesis of biocompounds because it allowed the full recovery of flavedo, but partial of albedo. However, it was different for CTRL and D, whose TPCs were ~170 and ~200%, ~98 and ~78%, and ~8 and ~36% higher for orange, grapefruit, and lemon, respectively, compared to G. A principal component analysis confirmed differences between the fruit species and cutting shapes combining all factors. Wounding citrus peels induces the accumulation of phytochemical compounds, but the layer of peel recovered in the cut is crucial in the concentration of phytochemicals extracted. It could be an innovative tool to revalorize these inedible parts of citrus, but further research is still needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Farm to Table in the Era of a New Horticulture in Spain)

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19 pages, 3694 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Analysis of Microbiomes and Metabolomics Reveals the Mechanism of Adaptation to Cadmium Stress in Rhizosphere Soil of Rhododendron decorum subsp. Diaprepes

by Ming Tang, Lanlan Chen, Li Wang, Yin Yi, Jianfeng Wang, Chao Wang, Xianlei Chen, Jie Liu, Yongsong Yang, Kamran Malik and Jiyi Gong

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080884 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 827

Abstract

The toxicity of cadmium (Cd) not only affects the growth and development of plants but also has an impact on human health. In this study, high-throughput sequencing and LC-MS were conducted to analyze the effect of CdCl₂ treatment on the microbial community [...] Read more.

The toxicity of cadmium (Cd) not only affects the growth and development of plants but also has an impact on human health. In this study, high-throughput sequencing and LC-MS were conducted to analyze the effect of CdCl₂ treatment on the microbial community and soil metabolomics of rhizosphere soil in Rhododendron decorum subsp. diaprepes. The results showed that CdCl₂ treatment reduced the quality of the rhizosphere soil by significantly decreasing the soil organic carbon (SOC) content, urease, and invertase activities, increasing the percentage of the exchangeable Cd fraction. CdCl₂ treatment did not significantly change the Chao1 and Shannon indices of bacterial and fungal communities in the rhizosphere soil. R. decorum was more likely to recruit Cd-resistant bacteria (e.g., Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi) and increase the abundance of Cd-resistant fungi (e.g., Basidiomycota, Rozellomycota). Moreover, CdCl₂ treatment decreased the content of secondary metabolites associated with plants’ resistance to Cd. Rhizosphere soil urease, invertase activities, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), SOC, total potassium (TK), Cd, and nitrate nitrogen (NN) were the main drivers of the composition of rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities. CdCl₂ treatment weakened the relationships among bacterial/fungi, differential metabolites, and physicochemical properties in rhizosphere soil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Molecular Biology of Ornamental Plants—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 7994 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Grapevine Rootstocks Tolerant to Copper Excess

by Edicarla Trentin, Paulo Ademar Avelar Ferreira, Felipe Klein Ricachenevsky, Letícia Morsch, Simoni Weide Belles, Jacson Hindersmann, Camila Peligrinotti Tarouco, Fernando Teixeira Nicoloso, Álvaro Luís Pasquetti Berghetti, Lincon Oliveira Stefanello da Silva, Raissa Schwalbert, Henrique Pessoa dos Santos, George Wellington Bastos de Melo and Gustavo Brunetto

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080883 - 21 Aug 2024

Viewed by 692

Abstract

The aim of the current study is to identify grapevine rootstocks with the potential to tolerate excessive Cu concentrations. Four grapevine rootstock genotypes were tested: Paulsen 1103, IAC 572, SO4 and Isabel. The plants were cultivated in nutrition solution added to the following [...] Read more.

The aim of the current study is to identify grapevine rootstocks with the potential to tolerate excessive Cu concentrations. Four grapevine rootstock genotypes were tested: Paulsen 1103, IAC 572, SO4 and Isabel. The plants were cultivated in nutrition solution added to the following treatments: 0.3 µM Cu and 80 µM Cu. Growth, nutrient concentration in tissue and the physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed. Rootstocks showed different growth responses to Cu excess in the solution. SO4, IAC 572 and Isabel markedly reduced growth under Cu excess compared to plants in the control solution, whereas genotype Paulsen 1103 showed a less pronounced effect. The root system of all genotypes presented a Cu increase under a high Cu concentration, as well as higher POD activity and H₂O₂ concentration than the control. Isabel presented the greatest sensitivity to Cu excess, as shown by leaf wilting and yellowing. Paulsen 1103 rootstock presented smaller changes in the observed parameters in the high Cu concentration solution than in the control solution. Our results indicate that Paulsen 1103 is the most tolerant to Cu excess, whereas Isabel is the most sensitive. There are natural genetic variations in tolerance to this abiotic stress that typically affect grapevine plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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13 pages, 3272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds for Targeted Metabolomics: The AMDIS Strawberry User Library from Korean Germplasm

by Eunsu Do, Eungu Jee, Chan Saem Gil, Seolah Kim, Sun Yi Lee and Kang-Mo Ku

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080882 - 20 Aug 2024

Viewed by 619

Abstract

Strawberry aroma, crucial for determining quality, involves complex volatile compounds which are challenging to identify. This study explores strawberry aroma analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System (AMDIS). Central to our research is the creation [...] Read more.

Strawberry aroma, crucial for determining quality, involves complex volatile compounds which are challenging to identify. This study explores strawberry aroma analysis using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and the Automated Mass Spectral Deconvolution and Identification System (AMDIS). Central to our research is the creation of a bespoke strawberry Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) user library using AMDIS, specifically for analyzing strawberry aromas. The library contains VOCs from 61 strawberry cultivars, integrating information on 104 VOCs, including mass spectra, retention index, chemical class, CAS number, formula, odor threshold, and odor description. This custom library significantly outperformed a commercial library by reducing potential false hits by 200, decreasing the size of report files by over 96%, and, most importantly, shortening AMDIS analysis processing time from 31 s to 9 s, representing an approximate 71% reduction. Further, the study demonstrates the library’s practical application by contrasting the aroma profiles of strawberries harvested in winter and spring. This comparison revealed significant VOC variations depending on seasonal temperature changes, offering insights into environmental influences on strawberry aroma. In conclusion, this research marks a significant advance in strawberry aroma quality analysis. The strawberry VOC library developed in this study is expected to greatly aid targeted metabolomics and flavor research in strawberry breeding. Full article

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

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20 pages, 1817 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Sweet Cherry Attributes through Magnesium and Potassium Fertilization

by Marlene Santos, Sandra Pereira, Helena Ferreira, João Ricardo Sousa, Alice Vilela, Carlos Ribeiro, Fernando Raimundo, Marcos Egea-Cortines, Manuela Matos and Berta Gonçalves

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080881 - 20 Aug 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 591

Abstract

Plant nutrition through fertilizer application plays a crucial role in enhancing crop quality and yield, necessitating a balanced fertilization approach. Sweet cherry, esteemed as one of the most prized crops worldwide, was the focus of this three-year study spanning from 2019 to 2021, [...] Read more.

Plant nutrition through fertilizer application plays a crucial role in enhancing crop quality and yield, necessitating a balanced fertilization approach. Sweet cherry, esteemed as one of the most prized crops worldwide, was the focus of this three-year study spanning from 2019 to 2021, involving the sweet cherry cultivar Burlat. This study investigated the foliar application of magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K) to enhance fruit quality parameters. Different doses of Mg (250 g hL⁻¹ and 125 g hL⁻¹) and K (100 g hL⁻¹ and 50 g hL⁻¹) and a control treatment were administered to sweet cherry trees to assess their impact on fruit quality. At the commercial ripening stage, fruits from each treatment were harvested for comprehensive evaluation, including biometric and chromatic parameters, fruit firmness, routine parameters, sensory profile, and nutrient content analysis. Results from the study revealed notable enhancements in fruit weight and dimensions, particularly in the control treatment in 2020. Furthermore, Mg125 and Mg250 treatments exhibited improved color development and accelerated maturity by increasing the total soluble solids content while decreasing titratable acidity. Sensorial profiling indicated that Mg125 and Mg250 treatments intensified color intensity and sweet taste while mitigating sour taste perceptions. Conversely, potassium fertilization, especially the K50 treatment, led to increased fruit firmness and nutrient content. These findings offer valuable insights into optimizing sweet cherry production practices globally. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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15 pages, 4222 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Could 101-14 Mgt Rootstock Affect Post-Spring Frost Vine Developing? Preliminary Findings

by Gastón Gutiérrez-Gamboa, Cristóbal Palacios-Peralta, Nicolás Verdugo-Vásquez, Marjorie Reyes-Díaz, Ariel Muñoz and Alejandra Ribera-Fonseca

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080880 - 20 Aug 2024

Viewed by 826

Abstract

(1) Background: Spring frost damage is a common phenomenon that occurs in Southern Chile that considerably affects vine productivity and grape quality. (2) Methods: A field trial was conducted in order to study vine phenology and berry physicochemical parameters in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Spring frost damage is a common phenomenon that occurs in Southern Chile that considerably affects vine productivity and grape quality. (2) Methods: A field trial was conducted in order to study vine phenology and berry physicochemical parameters in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir ungrafted and grafted (onto 101-14 Mgt rootstock) grapevines after a spring frost. This event killed the totality of primary bud shoots when the vines reached the phenological stage of unfolded leaves. (3) Results: From budburst, to flowering of secondary bud shoots, ungrafted Sauvignon Blanc grapevines presented an advanced phenology, whereas 101-14 Mgt rootstock tended to advance the maturity of Pinot Noir grapevines from flowering to ripening of berries. At harvest, berries from secondary buds of vines grafted onto 101-14 Mgt rootstock showed higher soluble solids than the ones from ungrafted Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc vines. High total phenolic content was found in berries from secondary buds of the grafted vines, compared to the ones from the ungrafted vines. Berry soluble solids variability tended to statistically decrease toward harvest in the studied plant materials, and the maximum coefficient of variation for soluble solids, berry weight, berry firmness and berry size reached 9.5%, 25.9%, 18.6% and 8.9%, respectively. (4) Conclusions: These preliminary results may be interesting for the Southern Chilean viticulturists since it seems that 101-14 Mgt rootstock could affect phenology and grape berry maturity of grapevines established in the Cautín Valley after spring frost damage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effects of Climate Change on Viticulture (Grape))

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26 pages, 5700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenotypic and Molecular-Markers-Based Assessment of Jamun (Syzygium cumini) Genotypes from Pakistan

by Safeer Uddin, Muhammad Jafar Jaskani, Zhanao Deng, Rizwana Maqbool, Summar Abbas Naqvi, Saroj Parajuli, Naseem Sharif, Abdul Rahman Saleem, Steven Ledon, Sufian Ikram, Iqrar Ahmad Khan and Waqar Shafqat

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 879; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080879 - 20 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1115

Abstract

Jamun plant displays enormous diversity throughout Pakistan, which necessitates its screening, evaluation, and validation to document elite genotypes having better traits for the benefit of the fruit industry and farmers. Surveys were made in natural Jamun habitats across Punjab, Pakistan, and genotypes were [...] Read more.

Jamun plant displays enormous diversity throughout Pakistan, which necessitates its screening, evaluation, and validation to document elite genotypes having better traits for the benefit of the fruit industry and farmers. Surveys were made in natural Jamun habitats across Punjab, Pakistan, and genotypes were marked based on visual diversity of trees and fruits. In total, 60 Jamun genotypes were selected for characterization based on phenotypic and genetic markers. Phenotypic characters related to trees, leaf, and flower along with fruit qualitative traits were assessed in situ. Results revealed significant diversity with high (>25%) coefficient of variance values and the first two components of correspondence analysis exhibited 41.71% variation among genotypes. A strong association was observed among traits like upright tree and round fruit shape (0.74), bluish-colored fruit and pinkish pulp (0.85), and elliptic-shaped fruit with low fruit waxiness (−0.72). Leaves of phenotypically characterized plants were brought to Wheat Biotechnology Lab., University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where Jamun genotypes were investigated genetically using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 132 bands were scored, of which 108 were polymorphic, corresponding to almost 81% polymorphism among collected genotypes. High polymorphism information content values were observed against RAPD (0.389) and ISSR (0.457) markers. Genotypes were compared in relation to genetic markers, which exhibited that almost 86% of genetic variability was attributed to differences among accessions, while 14% of variation was due to differences between collections of different areas. Findings of this study confirmed wide phenotypic and genetic distinctness of Jamun in Pakistan that can aid breeders for marker-assisted selection and germplasm enhancement for future crop improvement programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Improvements and Germplasm Resources for Fruit and Vegetable Plants)

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20 pages, 5215 KiB

Open AccessReview

Strategies for Achieving High and Sustainable Plant Productivity in Saline Soil Conditions

by Zhadyrassyn Nurbekova, Mereke Satkanov, Moldir Beisekova, Alua Akbassova, Rimma Ualiyeva, Junfang Cui, Yangwu Chen, Zhaoqi Wang and Sayan Zhangazin

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080878 - 20 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1694

Abstract

The accumulation of salt in arable lands is a source of significant abiotic stress, contributing to a 10% decline in the world’s total arable lands and threatening food productivity and the sustainability of agriculture. About 76 million hectares of productive land are estimated [...] Read more.

The accumulation of salt in arable lands is a source of significant abiotic stress, contributing to a 10% decline in the world’s total arable lands and threatening food productivity and the sustainability of agriculture. About 76 million hectares of productive land are estimated to have been affected by human-induced salinization such as extreme salt deposits in soil, which are mainly caused by the actions of humans. For instance, continued irrigation and the frequent use of chemical fertilizers need to be understood. To ensure food availability, it is essential to improve upon traditional farming methods using current technologies to facilitate the reclamation of saline-affected arable lands to achieve high and sustainable food production. This review details current innovative strategies such as the modification of metabolic pathways, manipulation of antioxidant pathways, genetic engineering, RNA interference technology, engineered nanoparticles, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), organic amendments, and trace elements for improving saline marginal lands. These strategies were identified to have contributed to the improvement of plants salinity tolerance in diverse ways. For instance, the accumulation of plant metabolites such as amino acids, sugars, polyols, organic acids, saponins, anthocyanins, polyphenols, and tannins detoxify plants and play crucial roles in mitigating the detrimental effects of oxidative damage posed by salinity stress. Multiple plant miRNAs encoding the up- and down-regulation of single- and multi-ion transporters have been engineered in plant species to enhance salt tolerance. Nanomaterials and plant root system colonized by arbuscular mycorrhizal increase water uptake, photosynthetic efficiency, and biomass allocation in plants exposed to saline stress by excluding 65 percent of the Na⁺ uptake and enhancing K⁺ uptake by 84.21 percent. Organic amendments and trace elements reduced salinity concentrations by 22 percent and improved growth by up to 84 percent in maize subjected to salinity stress. This study also discusses how researchers can use these strategies to improve plants growth, development, and survival in saline soil conditions to enhance the productivity and sustainability of agriculture. The strategies discussed in this study have also proven to be promising approaches for developing salinity stress tolerance strategies for plants to increase agricultural productivity and sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies to Increase Horticultural Crop Production for a Sustainable Future World)

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22 pages, 2347 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

The Conservation Varieties Regime: Its Past, Present and Future in the Protection and Commercialisation of Vegetable Landraces in Europe

by Adriano Didonna, Riccardo Bocci, Massimiliano Renna and Pietro Santamaria

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080877 - 19 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1494

Abstract

In 1998, the European Union aimed to make the official Common European Catalogue of Plant Varieties more flexible and to mitigate the decline of agricultural biodiversity in European rural areas by introducing the Conservation Varieties Regime (CVR): a set of rules pertaining to [...] Read more.

In 1998, the European Union aimed to make the official Common European Catalogue of Plant Varieties more flexible and to mitigate the decline of agricultural biodiversity in European rural areas by introducing the Conservation Varieties Regime (CVR): a set of rules pertaining to local and/or traditional varieties cultivated in specific regions that are at risk of genetic erosion. This initiative was intended to permit the sale of those varieties that do not fully meet the distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS) criteria required for the registration of standard varieties in the Common European Catalogue. In this review, we examine the impact of establishing the CVR 25 years after its first definition. As of the date of data collection, 191 conservation varieties were registered throughout Europe, representing only 0.88% of the total number of varieties included in the Common Catalogue. The most important countries are Spain, Italy and Croatia, which have, respectively, 57, 43 and 26 conservation varieties. The case study from Italy highlights that the CVR is poorly structured and is characterised by the initiatives of individual entities that take it upon themselves to protect and/or promote specific vegetable varieties. In this review, we discuss such data in relation to the protection and commercialisation of vegetable landraces in Europe. Overall, the CVR has failed to promote and enforce a dedicated market for all those varieties excluded from registration in the Common Catalogue due to DUS requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Mediterranean Biodiversity)

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12 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biostimulant Effects of Algae Species, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, and Their Combinations on Yield and Quality of Yellow Tomato Landrace Under Different Crop Cycles

by Soumaya Abidi, Alessio Vincenzo Tallarita, Eugenio Cozzolino, Vasile Stoleru, Otilia Cristina Murariu, Amina Abidi, Roberto Maiello, Vincenzo Cenvinzo, Pasquale Lombardi, Antonio Cuciniello, Lamia Hamrouni, Gianluca Caruso and Rafik Balti

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080876 - 19 Aug 2024

Viewed by 890

Abstract

Recent agricultural research has prioritized the development of environmentally friendly management strategies to ensure food security, among which the application of biostimulants such as brown algae extracts, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and their combination are included. The experimental protocol was based on the [...] Read more.

Recent agricultural research has prioritized the development of environmentally friendly management strategies to ensure food security, among which the application of biostimulants such as brown algae extracts, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and their combination are included. The experimental protocol was based on the factorial combination of two planting times (4 May and 1 June) and seven biostimulant treatments (three brown algae species, Cystoseria tamariscifolia—C.t.; Fucus vesiculosus—F.v.; Padina pavonica—P.p.; arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi—AMF; C.t. + AMF; F.v. + AMF; P.p. + AMF) plus an untreated control. The earlier transplant resulted in a higher yield, due to the higher number of fruits per plant, and a higher plant fresh and dry biomass. The treatments with P.p. and F.v. extracts and the combination P.p. + AMF led to the highest yields (56.7 t ha⁻¹), mainly due to the highest fruit number per plant. The earlier planting time led to higher values of dry residue, soluble solids, firmness, and colour component ‘a’. The highest values of fruit dry residue were recorded under the F.v. and P.p. extracts, and the combinations F.v. + AMF and P.p. + AMF, the highest soluble solid content with P.p. treatment, and firmness under P.p. + AMF. The highest levels of ‘L’ and ‘a’ fruit colour components were obtained under the P.p. extract treatment, of ‘b’ upon the application of P.p. and F.v. extract, and AMF + P.p. and AMF + F.v. The later planting time led to significantly higher values of the antioxidant parameters, as did the application of the P.p. extract and P.p. + AMF. CAT activity was more intense corresponding to the later tomato crop cycle, P.p. extract, and AMF + P.p. Overall, our study highlights the potential of biostimulants, particularly brown algae extracts and their combination with AMF, to improve tomato yield, antioxidant properties, and biochemical activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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4 pages, 149 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Berry Crops Production: Cultivation, Breeding and Health Benefits

by Toktam Taghavi

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080875 - 19 Aug 2024

Viewed by 650

Abstract

Horticulture is among the most intensive agricultural systems [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Berry Crops Production: Cultivation, Breeding and Health Benefits)

18 pages, 2830 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genotypic Selection Using Quantitative Trait Loci for Better Productivity under High Temperature Stress in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

by Elsayed Elazazi, Laura Ziems, Tariq Mahmood, Naeema Eltanger, Maryam Al-Qahtani, Nafeesath Shahsil, Aisha Al-Kuwari, Mohammed M. Metwally, Richard Trethowan and Chongmei Dong

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080874 - 19 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1009

Abstract

High temperature stress affects tomato production both in tropical and sub-tropical environments worldwide. To explore genetic variation for heat tolerance in tomato, 329 transcontinental tomato genotypes were evaluated at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) greenhouses near Doha, Qatar, where the average [...] Read more.

High temperature stress affects tomato production both in tropical and sub-tropical environments worldwide. To explore genetic variation for heat tolerance in tomato, 329 transcontinental tomato genotypes were evaluated at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) greenhouses near Doha, Qatar, where the average daytime temperature was 38 °C with a big fluctuation during the tomato growth season. A preliminary phenotypic analysis identified a panel of 71 hybrid and pure-line tomato genotypes for more detailed studies. The selected subset was examined in the greenhouse using a randomized complete block design under heat stress. The materials were phenotyped for fruit size, fruit weight, fruit hardness, fruit locules, fruit set, total soluble solids (TSS), and fruit yield. Significant phenotypic differences among genotypes were observed for all the traits assessed. To explore the genetic basis of the variation among the examined genotypes, the subset was genotyped using 104 SNP markers identified in previous heat-tolerance genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Nineteen QTL-associated SNP markers could reliably select heat-tolerant genotypes in terms of better fruit yield, fruit set, and TSS. These markers are located on chromosome 1, 5, 6, 8, 9, and 12. Interestingly, two clusters of markers on chromosome 6 were linked to significant effects on yield, fruit set, and TSS under high temperature. Eighteen out of nineteen SNP markers were mapped within a gene body. Based on the phenotypic and the genotypic analysis, an elite set of five genotypes was selected for approval for heat stress environments in Qatar. The aim of the present work is to provide significant results that are exploitable not only in the Qatar region but also worldwide. Specifically, the 19 molecular markers identified in this study can serve as useful tools for breeders in selecting heat-tolerant material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Influence of Climate Change and Environmental Stress on Vegetable and Fruit Production)

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21 pages, 2709 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrating Spectral Sensing and Systems Biology for Precision Viticulture: Effects of Shade Nets on Grapevine Leaves

by Renan Tosin, Igor Portis, Leandro Rodrigues, Igor Gonçalves, Catarina Barbosa, Jorge Teixeira, Rafael J. Mendes, Filipe Santos, Conceição Santos, Rui Martins and Mário Cunha

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080873 - 18 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1077

Abstract

This study investigates how grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) respond to shading induced by artificial nets, focusing on physiological and metabolic changes. Through a multidisciplinary approach, grapevines’ adaptations to shading are presented via biochemical analyses and hyperspectral data that are then combined with [...] Read more.

This study investigates how grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) respond to shading induced by artificial nets, focusing on physiological and metabolic changes. Through a multidisciplinary approach, grapevines’ adaptations to shading are presented via biochemical analyses and hyperspectral data that are then combined with systems biology techniques. In the study, conducted in a ‘Moscatel Galego Branco’ vineyard in Portugal’s Douro Wine Region during post-veraison, shading was applied and predawn leaf water potential (

Ψ_{p d}

) was then measured to assess water stress. Biochemical analyses and hyperspectral data were integrated to explore adaptations to shading, revealing higher chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll a-b 117.39% higher) and increased Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) levels in unshaded vines (52.10% higher). Using a self-learning artificial intelligence algorithm (SL-AI), simulations highlighted ROS’s role in stress response and accurately predicted chlorophyll a (R²: 0.92, MAPE: 24.39%), chlorophyll b (R²: 0.96, MAPE: 17.61%), and ROS levels (R²: 0.76, MAPE: 52.17%). In silico simulations employing flux balance analysis (FBA) elucidated distinct metabolic phenotypes between shaded and unshaded vines across cellular compartments. Integrating these findings provides a systems biology approach for understanding grapevine responses to environmental stressors. The leveraging of advanced omics technologies and precise metabolic models holds immense potential for untangling grapevine metabolism and optimizing viticultural practices for enhanced productivity and quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Precision Management Systems for Sustainable Orchards and Vineyards)

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11 pages, 570 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

A Comparative Study of the Influence of Soil and Non-Soil Factors on Seed Germination of Edible Salt-Tolerant Species

by Viana Castañeda-Loaiza, Maria João Rodrigues, Eliana Fernandes and Luísa Custódio

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080872 - 18 Aug 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 742

Abstract

Cultivating edible salt-tolerant plants (halophytes) for human consumption is increasingly important due to climate change and soil salinization, and offers sustainable agricultural solutions. Optimizing seed germination, the crucial initial stage of crop growth, is essential for enhancing crop production. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Cultivating edible salt-tolerant plants (halophytes) for human consumption is increasingly important due to climate change and soil salinization, and offers sustainable agricultural solutions. Optimizing seed germination, the crucial initial stage of crop growth, is essential for enhancing crop production. This study aimed to optimize the germination of edible halophytes under greenhouse conditions, focusing on select soil (salinity and substrate) and non-soil-related factors (chemical and mechanical treatments). The target species were selected for their commercial value and included Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L. (crystalline iceplant), Salicornia ramosissima J. Woods (sea asparagus), Medicago marina L. (sea medick), Ammophila arenaria (L.) Link (European beachgrass), Portulaca oleracea L. (common purslane), and Atriplex halimus L. (Mediterranean saltbush). Salinity negatively impacted germination rates (GRs) and delayed mean germination time (MGT) across species. P. oleracea had the highest GR (95.6%) in coco peat under freshwater irrigation, and the shortest MGT (5.2 days). A. halimus did not germinate under the tested conditions. Scarification with sulfuric acid improved the GR of M. marina by 42.2%, while scarification with ultrasounds improved the GR of A. arenaria by 35.5%. Our results indicate that the choice of substrate and the application of specific treatments like scarification can significantly improve the germination of certain halophyte species under variable saline conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Cultivation of Horticultural Crops)

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17 pages, 3396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Application of Carbon-Based Fertilizer Changed the Microbial Composition and Co-Occurrence Network Topological Properties of Vineyard Soil

by Ping Sun, Jiaqi Wu, Xianrui Lin, Chenfei Chen, Jianxi Zhu, Yi Wang, Jian Zhou, Huaxin Wang, Jiansheng Shen and Huijuan Jia

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080871 - 18 Aug 2024

Viewed by 715

Abstract

Charcoal-based fertilizer could be used extensively and is environmentally friendly. An experiment was designed to investigate the effects of different charcoal-based fertilizer application methods on soil microbiology and grape quality in a vineyard to guide the cultivation of ‘Shine-Muscat’. A control treatment without [...] Read more.

Charcoal-based fertilizer could be used extensively and is environmentally friendly. An experiment was designed to investigate the effects of different charcoal-based fertilizer application methods on soil microbiology and grape quality in a vineyard to guide the cultivation of ‘Shine-Muscat’. A control treatment without fertilization and six other treatments were set up. Four treatments applied carbon-based fertilizer as a base fertilizer with or without potassium fulvic acid, a complex microbial agent, or Bacillus subtilis, and two treatments were only applied with two applications of carbon-based fertilizer or compound fertilizer during the expansion period. The results showed that the bacterial phyla were mainly Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Ascomycota, Basidiomycota, and Mortierellomycota dominated the fungal community. At the genus level, the composition of fungi, compared to bacteria, varied significantly, while the dominant flora differed among fertilization practices. Application of charcoal-based fertilizer enriched beneficial microorganisms, while chemical fertilizers enriched pathogenic microorganisms. The addition of microbial fungicides and biostimulants for a period reduced the size of the microbial network, lowered positive correlations, and enhanced resistance to adverse conditions and diseases and there was no significant correlation between agronomic traits and microbial network topology. A combination of soil microbial and grape agronomic traits suggests that a charcoal-based fertilizer base, with microbial fungicides applied, is the optimal fertilization regimen for grape. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

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20 pages, 916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Climatic Conditions Associated with Altitude on the Volatile Composition of Cabernet Sauvignon Wines from Argentina, Spain and Portugal

by Leonor Deis, Liliana Martínez, Bianca S. da Costa and Mar Vilanova

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080870 - 17 Aug 2024

Viewed by 819

Abstract

In addition to winemaking techniques, wine’s quality and typicity are linked to the place where the grapes are grown. Climate, soil and the cultivar are major drivers of the terroir’s expression. Moreover, climate change is affecting the distribution of grapevine varieties in different [...] Read more.

In addition to winemaking techniques, wine’s quality and typicity are linked to the place where the grapes are grown. Climate, soil and the cultivar are major drivers of the terroir’s expression. Moreover, climate change is affecting the distribution of grapevine varieties in different wine-growing regions because changes in climatic conditions over the past years is affecting grape production. This study investigated the influence of some terroir parameters on the volatile composition of Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Eight wines from vineyards sited in Argentina, Spain and Portugal with altitudes between 2400 and 77 m above sea level (a.s.l.) with different soils and climatic conditions were selected. The results suggested that the vineyard’s place significantly modified the volatile composition of Cabernet Sauvignon wines because all chemical groups of volatiles quantified were affected. Volatile acids, C6 compounds, aldehydes, esters and terpenes showed the highest concentrations at 2400 m a.s.l., where the highest thermal amplitude was observed. In Portugal, where the vineyard studies were sited at lower altitudes (77 m a.s.l.) and under warm climatic conditions, high concentrations of alcohols and lactones were observed. Alcohols also showed high concentrations in wines from vineyards sited at 413 and 155 m a.s.l. (Spain). Principal component analysis showed the positive correlation of Cabernet Sauvignon wines located at higher altitudes with terpenes. On the contrary, wines from grapes grown at lower altitude conditions exhibited a correlation with alcohols and lactones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Investigating Climate Change’s Impact on Grape and Wine Secondary Metabolites)

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15 pages, 1276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Cultivation Practices and Fertilizer Use on the Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Kentucky Bluegrass Athletic Fields

by Kristina S. Walker and Katy E. Chapman

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080869 - 17 Aug 2024

Viewed by 552

Abstract

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are known to contribute to global climate change. A two-year field study on Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) evaluated cultivation practices and fertilizer use on GHGs. The presence of urea and hollow-tine aerification resulted in the highest soil [...] Read more.

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are known to contribute to global climate change. A two-year field study on Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) evaluated cultivation practices and fertilizer use on GHGs. The presence of urea and hollow-tine aerification resulted in the highest soil carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. No significant differences between soil methane (CH₄) flux were observed based on fertilizer; however, in 2014 the verticutting cultivation treatment fluxed significantly more soil CH₄ than the uncultivated control. Results showed no significant differences in soil nitrous oxide (N₂O) in 2013; however, in 2014, both fertilizer and cultivation practices showed significant differences between treatments, with the urea and the hollow-tine treatments fluxing significantly more soil N₂O. The hollow-tined plots produced the greenest turf in 2013, followed by the uncultivated control and the verticutted treatment. In 2014, both the hollow-tine and the uncultivated control produced the greenest turf, followed by the verticutted treatment. The hollow-tined and uncultivated control treatments had significantly higher turfgrass quality than the verticutted treatment. The verticutted urea treatment was above acceptable levels (>6.0) for turfgrass quality following all cultivation events. The results show cultivation practices can be identified that reduce GHG emissions while maintaining turfgrass quality and color. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies and Practices for Soil Fertility Management)

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16 pages, 17760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Advances on the Photoperiodic Regulation of Plant Flowering: A Bibliometric Study

by Jian Luo, Hengmin Lv, Yiting Shu, Guihu Mei, Xiong You and Xilin Hou

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080868 - 16 Aug 2024

Viewed by 923

Abstract

Light is a crucial environmental factor for plant growth and development, and the light required for plant development on Earth mainly comes from solar radiation. Light not only affects the photomorphogenesis of plants as a trigger signal but also has an important influence [...] Read more.

Light is a crucial environmental factor for plant growth and development, and the light required for plant development on Earth mainly comes from solar radiation. Light not only affects the photomorphogenesis of plants as a trigger signal but also has an important influence on the whole development of plants. The study of photoperiod regulation of plant flowering is crucial in agricultural practice, as it directly affects plant variety selection, introductory adaptation, and yield stability. In this paper, we used the Bibliometrix package in R Studio, VOSviewer, and Citespace to bibliometrically and statistically analyze 3919 publications in the Web of Science core ensemble database from 2000 to 2023 and to explore the progress and trends in the study of photoperiodic regulation of plant flowering. Literature visualization techniques were used to analyze the annual quantitative distribution of the studies in the dataset, and co-occurrence analysis of collaboration between authors, co-occurrence analysis of collaboration between organizations, co-citation analysis, keyword co-occurrence analysis, and identification of topic evolution were also performed. The results show that the number of publications on photoperiodic regulation of plant flowering is increasing every year, showing a significant diversification and globalization trend in this research area. Growth, gene expression, and Arabidopsis thaliana are the most popular research areas in this field. Flowering gene networks and signaling pathways in the photoperiodic pathway, systems biology and multi-omics, environmental adaptation studies, and cross-species comparisons are current research hotspots. The thematic evolution suggests that environmental change, crop improvement and sustainable agriculture, light quality, and biological clock regulation may be foci of future research. This study reveals the research trends in photoperiodic regulation of plant flowering over the past 23 years and the areas where more research inputs are needed in the future, aiming to offer guidance for future research endeavors in the field of photoperiodic regulation of plant flowering. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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10 pages, 3359 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seed Morpho-Anatomy, Dormancy and Germination Requirements in Three Schizanthus Species (Solanaceae) with Ornamental Potential

by Joaquín Moreno, Miguel Gómez and Samuel Contreras

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080867 - 16 Aug 2024

Viewed by 689

Abstract

Schizanthus carlomunozii, S. hookeri, and S. porrigens are herbaceous species native to Chile and Argentina and have high ornamental potential. Their propagation through seeds is challenging due to low and uneven germination percentages. This study aimed to determine the morpho-anatomical characteristics, [...] Read more.

Schizanthus carlomunozii, S. hookeri, and S. porrigens are herbaceous species native to Chile and Argentina and have high ornamental potential. Their propagation through seeds is challenging due to low and uneven germination percentages. This study aimed to determine the morpho-anatomical characteristics, dormancy, and germination requirements of the seeds of these three species. The seeds from all three species have a flattened and reniform shape with a foveolate testa. However, the seeds of S. hookeri are distinguished by their larger size, more pronounced C-shape, seed coat with more marked prominences, and symmetrically arranged areoles. Histological analysis and imbibition tests with methylene blue revealed that the seeds have well-developed embryos and permeable seed coats, ruling out physical and morphological dormancy. Germination tests under various conditions showed that the seeds of the three species exhibit physiological dormancy. Imbibition in gibberellic acid (200 ppm) proved to be an effective treatment to promote germination. When evaluated in S. hookeri seeds, cold stratification and after-ripening also improved germination. The optimal temperatures for seed germination were calculated to be 26 °C for S. carlomunozii, 19 °C for S. hookeri, and 23 °C for S. porrigens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Seed Dormancy and Germination of Horticultural Plants)

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12 pages, 3899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Non-Structural Carbohydrate Composition of ‘Hass’ Avocado Fruit Is Affected by Maturity, Storage, and Ripening

by Jeremy Burdon, David Billing, Judith Bowen and Helen Boldingh

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080866 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 731

Abstract

Avocado fruits are considered unusual because of the large amounts of oil and seven-carbon (7-C) carbohydrates (mannoheptulose and perseitol) in the fruit’s flesh and skin. The fruit may be held on the tree unripe until required for marketing, and in some producing regions, [...] Read more.

Avocado fruits are considered unusual because of the large amounts of oil and seven-carbon (7-C) carbohydrates (mannoheptulose and perseitol) in the fruit’s flesh and skin. The fruit may be held on the tree unripe until required for marketing, and in some producing regions, this may extend past the next flowering period. This prolonged period on the tree is associated with increased oil content and decreased 7-C carbohydrates. There has been relatively less research into soluble hexose sugars and starch. In this research, the inter-relationships between fruit maturation, storage, and ripening have been investigated for both 7-C and six-carbon non-structural carbohydrates using ‘Hass’ fruit harvested from the same trees between 11 and 14 months after flowering. Significant differences were identified in both fruit flesh and skin for most compounds, affected by maturity, storage, and ripening. It is concluded that the non-structural carbohydrate composition of ‘Hass’ fruit is variable, with significant changes occurring associated with maturation, storage, and ripening. The compositions of the flesh and skin tissues are not consistently proportionate. Maturation provides the initial baseline composition from which any further change through storage or ripening can occur. The changes with maturation appear to be associated with the tree’s phenology, with tree-to-tree differences in the timing or degree of change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Ripening and Postharvest Biology of Horticulture Crops)

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13 pages, 1415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biological Control of Streptomyces Species Causing Common Scabs in Potato Tubers in the Yaqui Valley, Mexico

by Amelia C. Montoya-Martínez, Roel Alejandro Chávez-Luzanía, Ana Isabel Olguín-Martínez, Abraham Ruíz-Castrejón, Jesús Daniel Moreno-Cárdenas, Fabiola Esquivel-Chávez, Fannie I. Parra-Cota and Sergio de los Santos-Villalobos

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080865 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1096

Abstract

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) represent an important food in the country’s gastronomy due to their cost, nutritional contribution, and versatility. However, many plant diseases such as the common scab—caused by Streptomyces species—reduce its yield and quality. This study aims to determine Streptomyces [...] Read more.

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) represent an important food in the country’s gastronomy due to their cost, nutritional contribution, and versatility. However, many plant diseases such as the common scab—caused by Streptomyces species—reduce its yield and quality. This study aims to determine Streptomyces species being the causal agent of common scabs in a commercial potato field in the Yaqui Valley, Mexico, while identifying Bacillus strains as a biological control method to mitigate the impact of this disease under field conditions. Thus, three Streptomyces strains were selected from symptomatic samples, and then they were morphologically and molecularly (through sequencing recA and rpoB genes) identified as Streptomyces caniscabiei. After pathogenicity tests, the three strains were found to be pathogenic to potato tubers. In screening assays to identify biocontrol bacteria, strain TSO2^T (Bacillus cabrialesii subsp. tritici) and TE3^T_UV25 (Bacillus subtilis) had the best in vitro biocontrol effect against S. caniscabiei. Then, a field experiment (1 ha per treatment), under commercial conditions, was carried out to analyze the effectivity of these biocontrol bacteria to mitigate the common scabs on potato crops. After four months, the inoculation of this bacterial consortium decreased common scab incidence from 31% to 21% and increased the potato yield up to almost 5 tons/ha vs. the un-inoculated treatment. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the studied bacterial consortium as a potential biological control strategy to control common scabs of potato caused by Streptomyces caniscabiei, as well as increase the potato yield in the Yaqui Valley, Mexico. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants Pathology and Advances in Disease Management—2nd Edition)

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13 pages, 4605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Evaluation of Texture Quality of ‘Huizao’ (Ziziphus jujuba Mill. Huizao) and Its Response to Climate Factors in Four Main Production Areas of Southern Xinjiang

by Tianfa Guo, Qianqian Qiu, Chuanjiang Zhang, Xiangyu Li, Minjuan Lin, Cuiyun Wu, Shuangquan Jing, Xingang Li and Zhenlei Wang

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080864 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 741

Abstract

A superior cultivar of dried jujube in China is ‘Huizao’ (HZ) jujube. Nonetheless, detailed evaluations of the texture quality of HZ fruit have been the subject of few studies. Texture is a significant indicator of the sensory and processed quality of a fruit. [...] Read more.

A superior cultivar of dried jujube in China is ‘Huizao’ (HZ) jujube. Nonetheless, detailed evaluations of the texture quality of HZ fruit have been the subject of few studies. Texture is a significant indicator of the sensory and processed quality of a fruit. Here, we differentiate and characterize the texture quality of HZ fruit from the four primary producing regions in southern Xinjiang, as well as develop a system for assessing the texture quality of HZ fruit. Correlation investigation indicated strong relationships between the springiness, chewiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, and hardness of HZ fruit. Furthermore, according to the factor molecules, the texture quality of HZ fruit in the four production areas was evaluated as Bazhou (1.24) > Hotan (0.773) > Kashi (−0.577) > Aksu (−0.852). RDA analysis of six texture quality parameters and 24 climate conditions identified higher mean temperature (TEM) and lower relative humidity (RHU) as the primary factors contributing to the improved texture quality of HZ fruit in Xinjiang. This study identified the variations in the texture of HZ fruit in the four primary producing regions of Southern Xinjiang. The HZ fruit in Hotan and Bazhou exhibit superior springiness and stickiness, while the fruit in Aksu and Kashi exhibit greater hardness. The texture of HZ fruit is significantly influenced by springiness, hardness, and adhesiveness, and a comprehensive evaluation model has been established through this research. This will provide a theoretical foundation for optimizing the dominant producing areas and regional production of HZ varieties in Xinjiang. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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17 pages, 960 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Comparison of Volatile Organic Compounds, Quality, and Nutritional Parameters from Local Italian and International Apple Cultivars

by Aurora Cirillo, Natasha D. Spadafora, Lily James-Knight, Richard A. Ludlow, Carsten T. Müller, Lucia De Luca, Raffaele Romano, Hilary J. Rogers and Claudio Di Vaio

Horticulturae 2024, 10(8), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10080863 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1610

Abstract

Apple cultivars ‘Annurca’ and ‘Limoncella’ are grown locally in the Campania region of Italy and are valued for their distinctive flavour and characteristics, including a high content of nutritionally important bioactive compounds. However, apples are typically stored chilled for several months before consumption, [...] Read more.

Apple cultivars ‘Annurca’ and ‘Limoncella’ are grown locally in the Campania region of Italy and are valued for their distinctive flavour and characteristics, including a high content of nutritionally important bioactive compounds. However, apples are typically stored chilled for several months before consumption, so it is important to assess if the valuable characteristics are still present after postharvest storage. Here, we compare the quality, nutritional parameters, and aroma of these two cultivars with two widely grown international cultivars, ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Fuji’, after 60 days of storage. The aroma profiles of all four apples were analysed using thermal desorption and gas chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We show that the local cultivars are distinct from the international cultivars in their bioactive compound content and their antioxidant activity. ‘Limoncella’ shows high sugar content, which may be acting as a cryoprotectant during storage, and high total phenolics in the flesh, which is of nutritional interest. We identified 104 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and showed that the overall aroma profile is distinct for each cultivar, containing 11 published odorant compounds. The ‘Annurca’ profile is uniquely low in esters. Seven VOCs retain good discrimination across the four cultivars and, together with the quality and nutritional data, separate the two local cultivars from the international cultivars by hierarchical clustering. Overall, the data emphasize the unique characteristics of the two local cultivars and their value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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Horticulturae, Volume 10, Issue 8 (August 2024) – 120 articles

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