Agronomy

18 pages, 3664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pastureland Soil Organic Carbon Storage Regulated by Pasture Species and Age Under Nitrogen and Water Addition in Northern China

by Meji Cuo, Lijun Xu, Bo Yuan, Yingying Nie and Jiaqiang Wei

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 399; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020399 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

Abstract

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a key indicator of soil quality and an important component of the global carbon cycle. Enhancing SOC through crop rotation is a promising strategy; yet, the underlying mechanisms for SOC accumulation remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate [...] Read more.

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a key indicator of soil quality and an important component of the global carbon cycle. Enhancing SOC through crop rotation is a promising strategy; yet, the underlying mechanisms for SOC accumulation remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different pasture age, pasture species, irrigation, and nitrogen (N) fertilization treatments on SOC content and storage in pastureland, analyzing the SOC content and below-ground biomass (BGB) data of different soil layers (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, 20–40 cm, 40–60 cm) of each treatment under three factors (pasture species (Bromus inermis, Medicago varia, the 1:1 mixture), irrigation (CK, dry-season supplementation), and N fertilization (0 kg N hm⁻² y⁻¹, 75 kg N hm⁻² y⁻¹, and 150 kg N hm⁻² y⁻¹)), as well as the interaction effects of these factors. Pasture species, water and N addition levels, and pasture age all had significant (p < 0.05) effects on BGB. At the age of 1–3, the SOC content of monocultured Bromus inermis was slightly higher than the monocultured Medicago varia and the mixture, and at the age of 4–5, monocultured Medicago varia and the mixture were slightly higher than the monocultured Bromus inermis. Among them, the mixture was the highest. At the age of 2–5, the BGB of pastureland was significantly influenced by pasture species, N and water addition, and pasture age. Over a 5-year period, SOCs in the surface layer of the fallowed cropland accumulated 32.35 Mg ha⁻¹, showing a very good carbon sequestration effect; especially the planting of a mixed pasture had a more significant positive effect on the accumulation of SOC. Therefore, for the low and medium yielding fields in China, according to the crop utilization target and production cycle, the purpose of improving soil quality can be effectively achieved through crop and grass rotation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Grassland and Pasture Science)

20 pages, 4386 KiB

Open AccessArticle

MicroRNA-Mediated Changes in DNA Methylation Affect the Expression of Genes Involved in the Thickness-of-Pod-Canopy Trait in Brassica napus L

by Ledong Jia, Lu Cao, Lijun Zeng, Kun Lu, Cunmin Qu, Jiana Li and Zhiyou Chen

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 398; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020398 (registering DOI) - 2 Feb 2025

Abstract

Methylation plays an important role in regulating crop development, but little is known about how methylation regulates plant architecture in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Here, we examined how methylation affects the thickness-of-pod-canopy (TPC) trait in rapeseed by performing genome-wide methylation analysis of [...] Read more.

Methylation plays an important role in regulating crop development, but little is known about how methylation regulates plant architecture in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). Here, we examined how methylation affects the thickness-of-pod-canopy (TPC) trait in rapeseed by performing genome-wide methylation analysis of two extreme TPC lines. In flower buds, 26 genes had significantly higher methylation levels in the high-TPC samples compared to the low-TPC samples, resulting in significantly reduced gene expression. By contrast, in the stem apex samples, the promoter regions of 22 genes were hypermethylated in the high- vs. low-TPC samples. The promoters of 19 and 21 genes had significantly reduced methylation levels in the flower bud and stem apex, respectively, of the high- vs. low-TPC samples, resulting in significantly higher expression levels. Some of these differentially expressed genes are associated with TPC-related traits, such as BnaC01g12960D (NRT1.8). In addition, 14 important genes related to growth and development were differentially regulated between the two groups due to miRNA-mediated differences in methylation levels in their promoters. For example, hypermethylation in the promoter region of BnaCnng64040D (Lipase family protein), mediated by miR159, led to significantly reduced gene expression in flower buds of high-TPC vs. low-TPC lines. These results, together with our previously generated RNA-seq and miRNA profiling data, indicate that both methylation and miRNAs are perhaps involved in regulating the expression of genes, thereby affecting the TPC trait in B. napus, providing a reference for uncovering the molecular mechanism regulating this crucial trait. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)

21 pages, 3786 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assemblage of Bacteria Communities and Resistome Enrichment by Dairy Flurries Along the Rhizosphere–Bulk Soil Continuum on Dairy Farms

by Joaquin Rilling, Constanza Venegas, Marco Campos, Milko A. Jorquera and Jacquelinne J. Acuña

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 397; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020397 (registering DOI) - 1 Feb 2025

Abstract

The use of dairy slurries as organic fertilizer amendments is a common practice in agriculture as a cost-saving measure, as well as a residue management strategy. However, concerns related to the increase in antibiotic resistance in the environment under the scope of the [...] Read more.

The use of dairy slurries as organic fertilizer amendments is a common practice in agriculture as a cost-saving measure, as well as a residue management strategy. However, concerns related to the increase in antibiotic resistance in the environment under the scope of the One Health strategy are increasing. In this study, we aimed to assess resistome enrichment driven by dairy slurry application in four southern Chile dairy farms. Slurry pits, rhizospheres of Lolium perenne amended with those slurries, and bulk soils were sampled. Thirteen antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs, tetA, tetG, tetM, tetQ, tetW, tetX, sul1, sul2, blaCTX_M, bla_OXA-1, blaTEM, ermB, and dfrA1) for five antibiotic classes (tetracyclines, sulfonamides, beta-lactams, macrolides, and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole), two related integrases (intl1 and intl2), and total bacteria (16S rRNA) abundance was measured by quantitative PCR (qPCR). Then, the abundance profiles of two enzyme-inactivated ARGs (tetX and blaTEM) were determined. The differences between the bacterial communities inhabiting the different sample types were explored with 16S rRNA metabarcoding. In general, all measured ARGs were detected in slurries. A decreasing trend in ARG copy numbers was observed with increasing soil depth, with the exception of tetX, whose abundance increased in the bulk soil at specific farms. The tetX and blaTEM communities revealed no differences in the relative abundance of variants in any of the samples. Finally, taxonomic and structural differences were found among all sample types. Thus, the enrichment of the sampled farm soil resistomes was driven by the application of the raw slurries as fertilizer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Circular Economy: Chemical, Microbiological and Environmental Implications of Mineral and Organic Fertilizers Use in Soils)

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17 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Organic Substitution Regimes Affect Open-Field Vegetable Yields and Soil Organic Carbon Stability by Regulating Soil Labile Organic Carbon Fractions’ Changes

by Yaling Wang, Linxuan Wang, Ruonan Li, He Wang, Guohan Wu, Xinyue Wen, Shaowen Huang, Xiubin Wang and Chunjing Liu

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 396; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020396 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Soil labile organic carbon (C) fractions play a key role in agricultural soil fertility. However, the effects of long-term organic substitution regimes on soil organic carbon (SOC), its labile fractions, stability, and vegetable yields as well as the relationships among these factors in [...] Read more.

Soil labile organic carbon (C) fractions play a key role in agricultural soil fertility. However, the effects of long-term organic substitution regimes on soil organic carbon (SOC), its labile fractions, stability, and vegetable yields as well as the relationships among these factors in the open-field are less well-studied. Hence, the objective of this study was to analyze the effects of long-term organic substitution regimes on SOC sequestration, labile C fractions [particulate organic C (POC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), dissolved organic C (DOC), and readily oxidizable C (ROC)], SOC stability, the C pool management index (CMI), and vegetable yields in a long-term (13 years) open-field experiment. Five treatments were examined: 100% chemical nitrogen fertilizer (CN), substituting 25% of the chemical N with manure (MN) or straw (SN), and substituting 50% of the chemical N with manure (2MN) or manure plus straw (MSN). Compared to the CN, organic substitution treatments increased the average yields of vegetable, the SOC, the labile C fractions’ contents, and the C pool management index (CMI) to varying degrees, but only MSN reached significant levels for these factors. However, the MSN treatment had a significantly lower C stability index (SI) than the CN. ¹³C-NMR analyses also confirmed that organic substitution treatments increased the proportion of O-alkyl C and the OA/A, but reduced SOC stability. Pearson correlation analysis and the partial least squares path model indicated that labile C fractions were the mainly direct contributors to yield and SOC stability. Overall, substituting 50% of the chemical N with manure plus straw is a relatively ideal fertilization practice to improve vegetable yields and enhance C activity in an open field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Innovative Cropping Systems)

13 pages, 628 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Mid-Season Drought on Tuber Yield, Biomass, Harvest Index, and Water-Use Efficiency of Jerusalem Artichoke in Tropical Regions

by Ruttanachira Ruttanaprasert, Sanun Jogloy, Thanawat Kaewkhieo-Ngam, Anon Janket, Ratchanee Puttha and Chorkaew Aninbon

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020395 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Mid-season drought is increasingly recognized as a major constraint on tuber production in Jerusalem artichoke. The ability of different genotypes to maintain high yields under such conditions is a critical component of drought tolerance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mid-season [...] Read more.

Mid-season drought is increasingly recognized as a major constraint on tuber production in Jerusalem artichoke. The ability of different genotypes to maintain high yields under such conditions is a critical component of drought tolerance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mid-season drought on tuber yield, biomass, harvest index, tuber water-use efficiency (WUEt), and biomass water-use efficiency (WUEb) across various Jerusalem artichoke genotypes with differing levels of drought tolerance. The experiment was conducted in pots using a 2×5 factorial combination in a randomized complete block design with four replications over two years. Factor A consisted of two water regimes: field capacity (FC) and mid-season drought. Factor B included five genotypes: JA 3, JA 125, JA 15, JA 89, and CN 52867. Mid-season drought significantly reduced tuber dry weight, biomass, WUEt, and WUEb, while increasing the harvest index. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for tuber dry weight, biomass, harvest index, WUEt, and WUEb under both water regimes. CN 52867 and JA 89 were characterized as drought-tolerant genotypes with high water-use efficiency and high yield potential. JA 3 was also noted for its lower yield reduction under stress. These three genotypes serve as valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at developing progeny populations with enhanced yield potential and drought tolerance, particularly for mid-season drought-prone environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)

16 pages, 2367 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Fungicide Application in Combination with Different Growth Regulators on Cotton Boll Quality and Yield in the Northwest Inland of China

by Munire Abuduaini, Hao Cheng, Xinghu Song, Gang Wu, Xinxin Li, Yangqing Tian, Jiahao Zhang, Wenqing Wang, Siqi Yang, Ziyi Meng, Feifei Zhao, Honghong Wu and Qiang Zhao

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020394 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Cotton yield can be stabilized by regulating the number and weight of bolls through the application of growth regulators. A field experiment was conducted in Xiaya, Xinjiang, from 2021 to 2023. The primary treatment involved a 40% pyraclostrobin suspension (300 mL/ha) combined with [...] Read more.

Cotton yield can be stabilized by regulating the number and weight of bolls through the application of growth regulators. A field experiment was conducted in Xiaya, Xinjiang, from 2021 to 2023. The primary treatment involved a 40% pyraclostrobin suspension (300 mL/ha) combined with different growth regulators: 14-hydroxylated brassinosteroid (150 mL/ha, M1), 0.1% thidiazuron (150 mL/ha, M2), or 8% diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (150 g/ha, M3). Clear water (M0) was used as the control treatment. This study examined the interaction between year and treatment and analyzed key factors affecting cotton yield. The results indicated a significant interaction effect between chemical treatments and yield across the years. All treatments led to an increase in yield compared with the control, with notable improvements in the number of bolls per unit area, boll weight, leaf area index, and net photosynthesis rate of cotton leaves. From a spatial perspective, the treatments effectively enhanced the number of bolls in the upper part of the plant. A positive correlation was observed between the number of new bolls and seed cotton yield. Among the treatments, the M2 treatment proved to be the most effective, which substantially increased the number of bolls in the upper part of the plant, as well as the total number of bolls per unit area and boll weight, resulting in a significant yield improvement. These findings can guide the development of chemical regulation strategies for cotton production in the Aksu region of Xinjiang, China, providing a valuable reference for enhancing local cotton yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Green and Efficient Cotton Cultivation)

19 pages, 2198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Açaí Waste Biochar Combined with Phosphorus Fertiliser and Phosphorus Use Efficiency in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp)

by Ana Rita de Oliveira Braga, Vinicius John, Criscian Kellen Amaro de Oliveira Danielli, Heiriane Martins Sousa, Filipe Eduardo Danielli, Cláudia Saramago de Carvalho Marques-dos-Santos, Danielle Monteiro de Oliveira and Newton Paulo de Souza Falcão

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020393 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Biochar is a multifunctional tool that enhances soil quality, with particularly positive effects on acidic soils with low nutrient content, common in tropical regions worldwide, such as in the Amazon region in Brazil. This study investigates the effects of açaí fruit waste biochar [...] Read more.

Biochar is a multifunctional tool that enhances soil quality, with particularly positive effects on acidic soils with low nutrient content, common in tropical regions worldwide, such as in the Amazon region in Brazil. This study investigates the effects of açaí fruit waste biochar (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) amendment and phosphate fertilisation on the chemical characteristics of a Ferralsol and on the biological components of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp). In a greenhouse setting, a randomised block design was employed, testing five doses of biochar (0, 7.5, 15, 30, and 60 t ha⁻¹) combined with four doses of phosphorus (P) (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg ha⁻¹), resulting in 20 treatments with three replicates and 60 experimental units. Cowpea responded to inorganic fertilisation, with lower doses of P limiting the biological components (height, leaves, leaf area, dry biomass, and dry root mass). Higher doses of biochar and P increased the soil’s available P content by up to 2.3 times, reflected in the P content of cowpea dry biomass. However, this increase in biochar and P levels led to a maximum increase of 7.7% in agronomic phosphorus efficiency (APE) in cowpea in the short term. The higher doses of biochar promoted increases in pH value, cation exchange capacity (CEC), and the contents of potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and total nitrogen (N). In contrast, a decrease in magnesium (Mg) and aluminium (Al) levels was observed, while the concentration of easily extractable glomalin (EE-GRSP) was not significantly affected during the evaluated period. We conclude that biochar altered the soil environment, promoting the increased solubility and availability of phosphorus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)

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22 pages, 2142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Tomato Seedling Production in the Tropics: Effects of Trichoderma, Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, and Key Agronomical Factors

by Teresa Leuratti, Lorenzo Fellin, Nicola Michelon, Juan Bosco Palacios Tario, Jaime Ernesto Santamaria Gutiérrez, Giorgio Gianquinto, Francesco Orsini and Giampaolo Zanin

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020392 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Agriculture remains a key contributor to Central America’s economy, despite climate change posing a significant threat to the sector. In the Trifinio region, already afflicted by arid summers, temperatures are expected to rise in the near future, potentially exacerbating the vulnerability of smallholder [...] Read more.

Agriculture remains a key contributor to Central America’s economy, despite climate change posing a significant threat to the sector. In the Trifinio region, already afflicted by arid summers, temperatures are expected to rise in the near future, potentially exacerbating the vulnerability of smallholder farmers. This study investigates the effects of two fungal symbionts, Trichoderma asperellum (TR) and the Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) Glomus cubense, and agronomic choices and practices such as cultivar selection, substrate type, and fertigation management on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedling growth and quality. Results showed that nutrient solution and the adoption of forest topsoil as substrate significantly enhanced morphological, physiological, and quality parameters. Modifying the nutrient solution to allow for an increase in plant height of 170% and a dry weight of 163% and enhancing Dickson’s quality index (DQI) by 64.5%, while the use of forest topsoil resulted in plants 58.6% higher, with an increase of 101% in dry weight and of 90.1% in the DQI. Both T. asperellum and G. cubense had positive effects on specific growth parameters; for instance, TR increased leaf number (+6.95%), while AMF increased stem diameter (+3.56%) and root length (+19.1%), although they did not, overall, significantly increase the seedling’s biomass and quality. These findings underscore the importance of agronomic practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change on tomato production, offering valuable insights for farmers in semi-arid regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

26 pages, 1455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Adaptability of 15 Oat Varieties in Different Ecological Regions

by Guanlu Zhang, Jikuan Chai, Guiqin Zhao and Liang Zeng

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020391 (registering DOI) - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

The planting of oat varieties is influenced by factors such as their inherent traits, ecological regional climate, altitude conditions, and resistance differences, resulting in a decrease in both forage yield and quality. It is crucial to carefully select appropriate oat varieties for different [...] Read more.

The planting of oat varieties is influenced by factors such as their inherent traits, ecological regional climate, altitude conditions, and resistance differences, resulting in a decrease in both forage yield and quality. It is crucial to carefully select appropriate oat varieties for different ecological regions in order to enhance forage yield and quality, thereby facilitating the advancement of the grass industry. The correlation between the indices and the relationship between the indices and varieties were investigated through rigorous correlation analysis and principal component analysis. By employing gray correlation analysis, the 21 indices were transformed into 15 independent comprehensive indices. Subsequently, based on a comprehensive analysis, oat varieties suitable for cultivation in different ecological regions were identified. In this study, fifteen domestic and foreign oat varieties were cultivated in the semi-arid region of Weiqi Town and the alpine region of Damaying Town in Shandan County throughout 2023. Among the yield traits, Everleaf 126 exhibited a significantly lower plant height while possessing the largest leaf area, the highest number of effective tillers, and achieving the highest hay and seed yields (p < 0.05), which were 13,199 kg/ha and 5136 kg/ha, respectively. The plant height of Longyan No.3 in Damaying Town was significantly higher than that of other varieties. This variety also demonstrated the highest number of effective tillers, along with the greatest hay yield (7783 kg/ha) and seed yield (5033 kg/ha). Among the evaluated quality traits, Everleaf 126 in Weiqi Town exhibited the highest leaf–stem ratio, crude protein content, and crude fat content (p < 0.05). In contrast, Mengshi in Damaying Town had the highest leaf–stem ratio, while Longyan No.3 demonstrated the highest levels of crude protein and crude fat content. Furthermore, Molasses displayed the highest soluble sugar content in both locations (p < 0.05). The resistance of 15 oat varieties to pests and diseases was found to be lower in Weiqi Town compared to Damaying Town. Notably, Everleaf 126 exhibited the highest resistance to powdery mildew, red leaf disease, leaf spot disease, and aphids among the varieties tested in Weiqi Town. In contrast, Longyan No.3 demonstrated superior resistance in Damaying Town. In conclusion, based on a comprehensive analysis of the gray correlation degree, in the semi-arid region, Everleaf 126 exhibited the most superior performance, followed by Molasses and Longyan No.3. In the alpine region, Longyan No. 3 demonstrated the highest overall performance, followed closely by Molasses and Mengshi. These varieties exhibit significant potential for promotion as high-yield, high-quality forage oats in semi-arid and alpine environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)

22 pages, 2026 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soybean Genotype-Specific Cold Stress and Priming Responses: Chlorophyll a Fluorescence and Pigment-Related Spectral Reflectance Indices as Tools for Breeding

by Maja Matoša Kočar, Aleksandra Sudarić, Tomislav Duvnjak and Maja Mazur

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020390 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Early sowing to avoid stress later in the season is limited by low early spring temperatures and unpredictable cold spells within recommended sowing dates. To achieve successful crop production, it is essential to understand plant stress responses, enabling breeders and producers to better [...] Read more.

Early sowing to avoid stress later in the season is limited by low early spring temperatures and unpredictable cold spells within recommended sowing dates. To achieve successful crop production, it is essential to understand plant stress responses, enabling breeders and producers to better address climate change challenges. Researching genetic variability for cold stress is key to developing cold-tolerant crops. In response, a study investigating the effects of low-temperature treatment and cold priming in the early vegetative development on soybean biomass, chlorophyll a fluorescence (ChlF) and pigment-related spectral reflectance indices (PR_SRIs) was conducted in a controlled environment with 12 soybean genotypes. Priming began 16 days after sowing (DAS), followed by a 48-h recovery and a subsequent 48-h low-temperature treatment. During priming and stress treatments, temperatures and relative air humidity were set to 10/5 °C and 70/90% (day/night), with a light intensity of 300 μmol/m²/s. The results showed that low temperatures negatively impacted biomass and physiological parameters, with priming having neutral or negative effects. The parameters ET₀/TR₀, RE₀/RC, TR₀/DI₀, F_m, F_v, ARI1, and ARI2 were identified as relatively appropriate non-destructive alternatives for biomass analysis, aiding in genotype screening and stress detection. Genotypic variation in response to cold stress suggests potential for selecting cold-tolerant varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Qualitative and Quantitative Plant Screening Measurements for Yield and Quality Enhancement)

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22 pages, 1921 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancing Nutritional and Functional Properties of Broccoli Leaves Through Selenium Biofortification: Potential for Sustainable Agriculture and Bioactive Compound Valorization

by Melina Soledad Buttarelli, Gabriel Céccoli, Betiana Soledad Trod, María Micaela Stoffel, Marianela Simonutti, Carlos Alberto Bouzo, Valeria Rosana Turowski, Adrián Alejandro Perez, Mercè Llugany, María-Jesús Sánchez-Martín, Lucas Damián Daurelio, María Gabriela Guevara and Fernando Felipe Muñoz

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020389 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Selenium (Se) biofortification is a promising agronomic strategy to enhance the dietary intake of this essential micronutrient while simultaneously adding value to agricultural by-products like Brassica oleracea L. var. italica leaves. This study evaluated the effects of foliar Se biofortification on a fresh [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) biofortification is a promising agronomic strategy to enhance the dietary intake of this essential micronutrient while simultaneously adding value to agricultural by-products like Brassica oleracea L. var. italica leaves. This study evaluated the effects of foliar Se biofortification on a fresh market broccoli cultivar (‘Belstar’) using selenite and selenate (1 and 2 mM). Growth performance, biochemical properties, nutraceutical quality, and phytohormone profiles of broccoli leaves were analyzed, highlighting their potential as functional by-products. Multivariate analysis revealed that 2 mM selenite application was the most effective treatment, significantly improving several parameters. Selenium biofortification with 2 mM selenite increased essential nutrient content, including Se, Ca, S, Fe, Mn, Mg, and Mo. It also enhanced the soluble protein content (+2.2-fold), phenolic compounds (+1.5-fold), and total antioxidant capacity (+1.4-fold) compared to control plants. In this sense, the nutraceutical quality of broccoli leaves was markedly improved, supporting their use as a source of bioactive ingredients. Additionally, to assess practical applications, water-extracted Se-enriched broccoli leaves demonstrated antifungal activity against the plant pathogen Fusarium solani, attributed to Se-induced alterations in phytohormone profiles. These findings suggest that Se-biofortified broccoli leaves can serve as a sustainable source of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds for the food industry. Furthermore, their antifungal properties position them as potential eco-friendly biopesticides to combat plant pathogenic fungi, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Food Quality and Plant Stress Tolerance through Selenium Biofortification: Strategies, Progress, and Challenges)

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16 pages, 2580 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification, Characterization, and Chemical Management of Fusarium asiaticum Causing Soybean Root Rot in Northeast China

by Jinxin Liu, Wanqiu Cui, Qingyi Zhao, Zhipeng Ren, Lin Li, Yonggang Li, Lei Sun and Junjie Ding

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020388 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Soybean root rot, a soil-borne fungal disease, is caused by multiple pathogens that seriously affect soybean production. During spring 2021, 92 pathogenic fungal strains were isolated from soybean plants with root rot in Hailun City, Heilongjiang Province, China. Through morphological and molecular identification, [...] Read more.

Soybean root rot, a soil-borne fungal disease, is caused by multiple pathogens that seriously affect soybean production. During spring 2021, 92 pathogenic fungal strains were isolated from soybean plants with root rot in Hailun City, Heilongjiang Province, China. Through morphological and molecular identification, these strains were identified as Fusarium oxysporum (39.1%), F. asiaticum (30.4%), F. graminearum (13.0%), Pythium macrosporum (8.7%), and Rhizoctonia solani (8.7%). Among them, F. oxysporum was the dominant species, and F. asiaticum, not previously reported as a soybean root rot pathogen in Northeast China. Approximately 50% of the F. asiaticum isolates were moderately pathogenic. In addition, F. asiaticum had a wide host range, infecting black soybean, French bean, white hyacinth bean, mung bean, and adzuki bean but not corn, peanut, rice, and oat roots. Regarding field management, fludioxonil and pyraclostrobin had the best control effects of 73.8% and 69.4%, with EC₅₀ values of 0.0029–0.0071 μg·mL⁻¹ and 0.0045–0.0076 μg·mL⁻¹, respectively. The study reported that F. asiaticum is a pathogen causing soybean root rot in northeast China. The application of chemical fungicides and non-host crop rotation can effectively control the disease caused by F. asiaticum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Legume Crop Protection)

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15 pages, 3112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Wind Erosion Control by Alfalfa Grassland Compared to Conventional Crops in Northern China

by Qi Qin, Jiaguo Qi, Xiaoping Xin, Dawei Xu and Ruirui Yan

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020387 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Wind erosion poses a significant challenge to agricultural sustainability in Northern China’s arid regions. This study investigated the effectiveness of alfalfa grassland versus conventional cropland in controlling wind erosion across nine study sites in three agroecological regions. Using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the [...] Read more.

Wind erosion poses a significant challenge to agricultural sustainability in Northern China’s arid regions. This study investigated the effectiveness of alfalfa grassland versus conventional cropland in controlling wind erosion across nine study sites in three agroecological regions. Using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery and the Revised Wind Erosion Equation (RWEQ) model, we analyzed vegetation cover duration and quantified soil wind erosion from 2018 to 2020. The results showed that alfalfa grassland extended vegetation cover by 80 days annually compared to cropland, with most extension occurring in spring. Alfalfa grassland demonstrated superior erosion control, reducing soil losses by 50% (24.02 versus 50.70 t/ha/yr) and increasing soil retention threefold (1.52 versus 0.59 t/ha/yr) compared to cropland. The northwest region experienced the highest erosion rates, while management practices significantly influenced alfalfa’s soil conservation effectiveness. Multiple regression analysis revealed vegetation cover and annual precipitation as primary factors affecting wind erosion. These findings suggest integrating alfalfa into crop rotations could effectively enhance soil conservation in Northern China’s wind erosion-prone regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Grassland and Pasture Science)

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22 pages, 11850 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhanced Cd Tolerance in Bamboo: Synergistic Effects of Nano-Hydroxyapatite and Fe₃O₄ Nanoparticles on Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging, Cd Detoxification, and Water Balance

by Abolghassem Emamverdian, Ahlam Khalofah, Necla Pehlivan and Yang Li

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020386 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAP) and Fe₃O₄ NPs (Fe₃O₄ NPs) offer effective and economical approaches for reducing Cd toxicity, which presents considerable risks to both environmental and human health. We examined the mechanisms through which these NPs mitigate Cd toxicity [...] Read more.

Nano-hydroxyapatite (n-HAP) and Fe₃O₄ NPs (Fe₃O₄ NPs) offer effective and economical approaches for reducing Cd toxicity, which presents considerable risks to both environmental and human health. We examined the mechanisms through which these NPs mitigate Cd toxicity in bamboo, Pleioblastus pygmaeus. The plants were exposed to Cd (0, 50, 100, and 150 mg L⁻¹) and received foliar sprays of 100 mg L⁻¹ n-HAP, 100 mg L⁻¹ Fe₃O₄ NPs, and a combination of both treatments. The findings indicated that Cd exposure led to oxidized molecules in bamboo, as evidenced by elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipoperoxidation. Foliar treatments utilizing n-HAP and Fe₃O₄ NPs markedly diminished these effects. H₂O₂, O₂•−, malondialdehyde (MDA), and electrolyte leakage (EL) levels decreased by 56%, 71%, 65%, and 72%, respectively, compared to the controls. The application of n-HAP and Fe₃O₄ NPs significantly enhanced the enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), with increases observed between 28% and 56%. Furthermore, there was an enhancement in proline accumulation, total phenolic content (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), nitric oxide levels, relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll concentration, and photosynthetic parameters. The combination of n-HAP and Fe₃O₄ NPs was most effective in improving bamboo tolerance to Cd, especially at moderate Cd concentrations of 50 and 80 mg L⁻¹. The results indicate that n-HAP and Fe₃O₄ NPs, particularly in combination, may mitigate Cd toxicity by decreasing Cd uptake, improving antioxidant capacity, and preserving plant water balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regulation of Nanomaterials in Crop Growth and Physiology Under Abiotic Stress)

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19 pages, 631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Continuous Injection of Hydrogen Peroxide in Drip Irrigation—Application to Field Crops

by Paul G. Thomas, Surya P. Bhattarai, Ron J. Balsys, Kerry B. Walsh and David J. Midmore

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020385 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Drip irrigation offers greater water use efficiency than conventional furrow irrigation practises, though routine maintenance is required for optimal performance. The continuous use of low concentrations (10 ppm) of H₂O₂ stabilized with hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) at two concentrations (H [...] Read more.

Drip irrigation offers greater water use efficiency than conventional furrow irrigation practises, though routine maintenance is required for optimal performance. The continuous use of low concentrations (10 ppm) of H₂O₂ stabilized with hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid (HEDP) at two concentrations (H₂O_{2 Low} containing 1 ppb and H₂O_{2 High} containing 1 ppm of HEDP) in drip irrigation was evaluated in terms of emitter, crop and yield performance across three crop species. Emitter flow rates (EFRs) for subsurface drip in sugarcane were higher by 16% and root intrusion into emitters was almost halved with H₂O_{2 Low}. For above-ground suspended drip lines with table grape, blockage of emitters due to biofouling was reduced by 50% in H₂O_{2 Low} compared to the control or H₂O_{2 High} within the second year of use, and the extent of emitters with visible biofouling was reduced even more. Soil microbiology did not differ markedly between treatments in any of the crops, even over four years of use. However, soil microbial carbon and soil carbon were reduced by H₂O_{2 Low} in the sugarcane trial. Yield increases of 9, 25, and 49% occurred in chilli, table grape, and sugarcane, respectively, for the continuous H₂O_{2 Low} treatment compared to the control. The yield increases with H₂O_{2 Low} could be associated with increased uniformity in water supply and/or oxygen supply to plant roots. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)

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17 pages, 3036 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nodal Injection of Agrobacterium tumefaciens for Gene Functional Analysis in Peanut: An Appraisal

by Malizukiswe Vincent Vacu, Chunjiao Jiang, Haojie Sun, Guangdi Yuan, Jing Yu, Jun Zhang and Chuantang Wang

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020384 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Peanut is a key cash crop worldwide, yet the limited availability of functional genes and markers for breeding hinders further progress, largely due to the lack of an efficient and user-friendly transformation system. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of nodal [...] Read more.

Peanut is a key cash crop worldwide, yet the limited availability of functional genes and markers for breeding hinders further progress, largely due to the lack of an efficient and user-friendly transformation system. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of nodal agroinjection, a novel transformation technique we developed for peanut, by introducing the soybean cold-tolerance gene SCTF-1. Putative transgenic seeds and seedlings were screened using genomic DNA PCR, while transgene expression was analyzed via qRT-PCR and phenotypic assessments. Southern blotting confirmed the stable integration of SCTF-1. The transgenic seedlings displayed enhanced chilling tolerance, characterized by increased proline accumulation, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA), and elevated peroxidase (POD) activity. These findings demonstrate that nodal agroinjection is an efficient and reliable approach for generating transgenic peanut and analyzing gene function. This method offers a promising alternative to conventional tissue culture-based transformation strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Breeding and Genetics)

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31 pages, 1754 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Trends and Future Prospects in Controlling the Citrus Nematode: Tylenchulus semipenetrans

by Anil Baniya, Omar Zayed, Jiranun Ardpairin, Danelle Seymour and Adler R. Dillman

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020383 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans) is one of the dominant plant-parasitic nematodes in citrus-growing regions, resulting in an average yield loss between 10 and 30%. Tylenchulus semipenetrans is a sedentary semi-endoparasitic nematode that infects the roots of citrus trees, causing stunted growth, [...] Read more.

Citrus nematode (Tylenchulus semipenetrans) is one of the dominant plant-parasitic nematodes in citrus-growing regions, resulting in an average yield loss between 10 and 30%. Tylenchulus semipenetrans is a sedentary semi-endoparasitic nematode that infects the roots of citrus trees, causing stunted growth, reduced fruit yield, and poor fruit quality; collectively this pathology and thus the disease caused is referred to as the slow decline of citrus. Despite its huge importance, the citrus nematode is regarded as a neglected parasite, and most research focuses on biological control and integrated pest management. Advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms of other plant-parasitic nematodes, such as sedentary endoparasites with biological similarities to citrus nematodes, can be leveraged to gain deeper insights into the molecular mechanisms of citrus nematodes. In this review, we examine the biology, and integrated pest management of citrus nematodes, and explore future research directions toward understanding the role of genomics, gene-editing tools, and the molecular mechanisms of host-seeking and effectors used by other plant-parasitic nematodes to cause infection, which can serve as a foundation for future work in citrus nematode management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nematode Diseases and Their Management in Crop Plants)

25 pages, 3272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Spatial Distribution of Nutrients in the Soil, Their Uptake by Plants, and Green Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Yield Under the Strip-Tillage System

by Małgorzata Szczepanek, Karolina Błaszczyk and Mariusz Piekarczyk

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020382 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

The cultivation of crops that enhance soil fertility, such as legumes, through the implementation of conservation tillage, is a strategy that may be highly effective in achieving sustainable agricultural objectives. A field study was conducted to examine the impact of soil tillage and [...] Read more.

The cultivation of crops that enhance soil fertility, such as legumes, through the implementation of conservation tillage, is a strategy that may be highly effective in achieving sustainable agricultural objectives. A field study was conducted to examine the impact of soil tillage and fertilisation technology, employing strip-tillage (reduced tillage) and ploughing (conventional tillage), on the content of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg) in two soil layers (0–20 and 20–40 cm), as well as in the sowing strip (row) and inter-row. Furthermore, the influence of the tillage on the availability and uptake of NPK and Mg by green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), as well as on their shoot and root growth and the yield and its components, were evaluated. The experiment was performed in central northern Poland (53°05′6.4′′ N, 19°06′2.6′′ E) over two consecutive growing seasons of green beans in 2016 and 2017. This study revealed significant effects of strip-till and conventional tillage on the spatial distribution of plant-available nutrients in the soil, the content and uptake of these nutrients by plants during the growing season, shoot and root growth, and the pod yield of green beans. Using strip-tillage was demonstrated to increase the nitrogen content within the sowing strip, when compared to the inter-row. Furthermore, the technology resulted in higher nitrogen and potassium concentrations in the topsoil (0–20 cm), thereby enhancing the uptake of these nutrients by plants. The cultivation of P. vulgaris in a strip-till system resulted in more dry matter, longer shoots and roots, a higher number of pods per plant, and a higher yield of bean pods (27.3% greater than with the ploughing system). The impact of tillage was, however, found to be negligible when climatic conditions during the growing season were more conducive to the crop. This suggests that strip-till technology has a beneficial influence on green bean cultivation, particularly in the context of unfavourable meteorological conditions. With the increasing frequency of periods of water scarcity and higher temperatures, the employment of strip-till technology is recommended as a strategy for enhancing crop yields and advancing the sustainability of agricultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cropping Systems and Agronomic Management Practices of Field Crops—2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 2340 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Agro-Physiological and Morphological Responses of Pearl Millet to Varying Water Regimes in Semi-Arid Conditions of Namibia

by Ofentse Moseki, Grace Kangueehi, Vasco Chiteculo, Matthias Zink and Maliata Athon Wanga

Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020381 - 31 Jan 2025

Abstract

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. BR.) is a C4 plant adapted to semi-arid climates and is one of the primary staple foods in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in Namibia. The decline in yields associated with water scarcity over the years has been [...] Read more.

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. BR.) is a C4 plant adapted to semi-arid climates and is one of the primary staple foods in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in Namibia. The decline in yields associated with water scarcity over the years has been a national concern in the country. An experimental field trial was conducted at the Mannheim Crop Research Station, Namibia, during the 2023 and 2024 cropping seasons to investigate the response of two local pearl millet cultivars (Kangara and Okashana 2) to different water regimes (100%, 75%, and 50% crop evapotranspiration [ETc]) according to morpho-physiological and yield parameters. Pearl millet was planted in a split-plot factorial design with four rows per plot under the three water regimes, and the genotypes were planted in subplots. The results revealed that the water regime had a significant effect on plant height, number of leaves, tillers, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, stem thickness, number of productive tillers, panicle diameter, panicle length, dry panicle weight, biomass, grain weight, and 1000-seed weight of the two pearl millet cultivars (p < 0.001). At 50% ETc, the water regime significantly reduced the growth and yield parameters compared with the 75% ETc and 100% ETc water regimes, highlighting the significance of water in plant development and growth. The findings highlighted that both cultivars responded similarly to water stress. Seventy-five percent of ETc is recommended to be applied in pearl millet systems in semi-arid conditions. This research has significant implications for the planning and producing of pearl millet under water-limited environments under changing climatic conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Water Use and Irrigation)

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