Horticulturae

12 pages, 6219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Ventilation Optimization of a Mechanized Corridor in a Solar Greenhouse Cluster

by Ming He, Xinxia Jiang, Xiuchao Wan, Yiming Li, Qinglu Fan and Xingan Liu

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121240 - 22 Nov 2024

Corridors play an important role in the mechanized production of fruits and vegetables in solar greenhouse clusters. A corridor structure that is suitable for the automated production of solar greenhouse clusters is designed in this paper. To increase the corridor’s ventilation efficiency and [...] Read more.

Corridors play an important role in the mechanized production of fruits and vegetables in solar greenhouse clusters. A corridor structure that is suitable for the automated production of solar greenhouse clusters is designed in this paper. To increase the corridor’s ventilation efficiency and enhance the temperature environment, the computational fluid dynamics method is applied to analyze the effects of corridor structure, ventilation mode, wind speed, and direction on internal temperature and humidity. Studies have indicated that an erroneous layout of the corridor structure may result in the formation of accumulated temperature and heat concentration inside, and ventilation within the corridor is essential. The corridor’s ideal dimensions are 3.2 m high by 5 m wide, and it has an internal wind speed and cooling rate that are superior to other structural factors. The ventilation method adopts a combination of top and bottom ventilation, and when the bottom window opening is 70%, there is a good ventilation effect inside the corridor. The corridor has an excellent ventilation effect when the wind speed is 2 m/s and the wind direction is east or west. This study supports the intensive and sustainable growth of greenhouse vegetable production by providing guidance for the planning and corridor design of solar greenhouse clusters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivation and Production of Greenhouse Horticulture)

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14 pages, 1060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Salinity and Biostimulants on Cherry Tomato Yield and Quality

by Ida Di Mola, Lucia Ottaiano, Eugenio Cozzolino, Christophe El-Nakhel, Nunzio Fiorentino, Maria Eleonora Pelosi, Youssef Rouphael and Mauro Mori

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121239 - 22 Nov 2024

Abstract

Salt stress causes several detrimental effects on the growth and production of cultivated plants; therefore, scientists have investigated several strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of salt stress, including the application of biostimulants. In our research, we tested four salinity levels of irrigation [...] Read more.

Salt stress causes several detrimental effects on the growth and production of cultivated plants; therefore, scientists have investigated several strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of salt stress, including the application of biostimulants. In our research, we tested four salinity levels of irrigation water (tap water and water at 3.0, 6.0, and 9.0 dS m⁻¹, EC0, EC3, EC6, and EC9, respectively) and two biostimulant applications (untreated plants—Control and plants treated with an extract from seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum—Bio) on a cherry-type tomato. The marketable tomato yield linearly decreased with increasing salinity stress in both treated and untreated plants. However, biostimulant application boosted the production, on average, by 53.2%, significantly impacting only the Control and EC3 treatments. Regarding qualitative traits, no interaction between the factors was detected, except for color parameters. Nonetheless, salinity, particularly in the two less stressed treatments, led to an increase in total soluble solids, firmness, lipophilic antioxidant activity, and ascorbic acid, while the biostimulant improved plant biomass, total soluble solids, firmness, and hydrophilic antioxidant activity. In conclusion, the seaweed extract of Ascophyllum nodosum elicited a beneficial response in tomato plants subjected to low levels of salt stress, as well as in optimal irrigation condition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Crop Physiological Responses under Biotic and Abiotic Stress)

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17 pages, 2768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Antioxidant Profile of Some Species of Microgreens Cultivated on Hemp and Coconut Substrate Under the Action of a Biostimulator Based on Humic Acids

by Alina Elena Marta, Florina Stoica, Ștefănica Ostaci and Carmenica Doina Jităreanu

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121238 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Microplants are vegetables, grains and aromatic herbs that are consumed in the stage of young plants, without roots, developed after the germination stage, in the stage of cotyledons and which have a high content of nutrients (antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, lutein, β-carotene, [...] Read more.

Microplants are vegetables, grains and aromatic herbs that are consumed in the stage of young plants, without roots, developed after the germination stage, in the stage of cotyledons and which have a high content of nutrients (antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, lutein, β-carotene, proteins and fibers, etc.), which makes them functional, concentrated foods capable of feeding the world’s ever-growing population. The significant amounts of antioxidants in microgreens have the role of neutralizing free radicals and reducing their harmful impact on human health. The microgreens studied were spinach (Spinacia oleracea) cultivar ‘Lorelay’, mustard (Sinapis alba) cultivar ‘White’ and radish (Raphanus sativus) cultivar ‘Red Rambo’, tested on hemp and coconut substrates and under the influence of the organic biostimulator Biohumussol, based on humic acids. The antioxidant content of the plants was determined by analyzing total carotenoids, lycopene, chlorophyll, β-carotene, polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as the antioxidant activity by ABTS and DPPH methods. The obtained results indicated that the reaction of the plant material depends on the composition of the substrate and the presence of the applied biostimulator. The highest contents of substances with an antioxidant role were obtained from the microgreens on the hemp substrate, especially mustard and radishes, and the biostimulator proved to be compatible with the spinach microgreens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Food Products and Technologies within the Horticultural Chain and Circular Economy Framework)

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27 pages, 2820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Analysis of the Content of Biologically Active Substances of Juniper Cone Berries and Their Antioxidant Activity

by Myroslava Hrytsyna, Ivan Salamon, Ruslan Peleno and Vladimira Vargova

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121237 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Juniper cones are widely used in the food industry and medicine. The aim of this study was to identify juniper growth sites with the highest concentrations of carbohydrates, fats, organic acids and phenols in their cone berries, as well as to assess their [...] Read more.

Juniper cones are widely used in the food industry and medicine. The aim of this study was to identify juniper growth sites with the highest concentrations of carbohydrates, fats, organic acids and phenols in their cone berries, as well as to assess their antioxidant properties. Research was conducted on 23 different populations from Slovakia, along with fruits purchased from commercial sources in Albania, Bulgaria, Bosnia, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic. The content of fermentable sugars in industrial samples was higher in Juniperus communis than in J. oxycedrus (360 and 197 g/kg, respectively), and 20% higher in samples from Albania than those from Slovakia. The carbohydrates included glucose and fructose; the latter was 35% less. We selected groups based on a cluster analysis of the content of organic substances in juniper cone berries and their antioxidant activity, collected from different Slovakian populations. So, based on the conducted research, it was established that the content of organic substances, particularly sugars, in cone berries decreased with elevation in the mountains and was the best at medium altitudes. At the same time, the antioxidant effect was better in cone berries collected on the north side at all altitudes. The best in terms of the content of phenols and antioxidant activity were the populations located on the northern, rather steep slopes in the lowlands of the Slovak Carpathians. These indicators fell with the increase in altitude in the mountains, especially from the southern side. The best places to collect raw materials are populations from middle latitudes: Chhrámec, Teplá dolina, lokalita 1, Horné lazy, Iliaš, Priechod-South, Priechod-West, Spišsky hrad, Selčianske sedlo, Cerovo, Poprad, Kišovce–Hôrka, Ostrá hora, Teplá dolina 2, Kráľová 2, and Kráľová 1. The cone berries can be used as the raw material base for producing the Slovak national alcoholic drink “Borovichka”. Full article

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12 pages, 3391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Transcription Factor BrNAC19 Acts as a Positive Regulator of the Heat Stress Response in Chinese Cabbage

by Shuai Yuan, Xiaoping Yong, Yuxin Lu, Yuxin Lei, Weijian Li, Qiuli Shi and Xiuhong Yao

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121236 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

The frequent occurrence of excessive heat events driven by global warming poses a great threat to plant growth and food security. To survive in heat stress (HS) environments, plants have evolved sophisticated response mechanisms, and the transcriptional network that controls the expression levels [...] Read more.

The frequent occurrence of excessive heat events driven by global warming poses a great threat to plant growth and food security. To survive in heat stress (HS) environments, plants have evolved sophisticated response mechanisms, and the transcriptional network that controls the expression levels of HS-inducible genes serves as an essential component of this process. NAC (NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2) transcription factors (TFs) play key regulatory roles in the abiotic stress responses of plants. However, the functional roles of NAC TFs in the heat stress response of Chinese cabbage remain elusive. In the present study, we identified the Brassica rapa NAC family transcription factor BrNAC19 as a close homologue of Arabidopsis NAC019 and found that it serves as a positive regulator of the HS response. BrNAC19 displayed inducible gene expression in response to HS, and its subcellular localization showed that it was localized in the nucleus. Heterologous expression of BrNAC19 significantly enhanced the heat tolerance of plants and reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under HS conditions. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that BrNAC19 directly targeted and promoted the expression of superoxide dismutase 1 (CSD1) and catalase 2 (CAT2), two antioxidant-enzyme coding genes in Chinese cabbage. Altogether, our results suggest that BrNAC19 enhances heat stress tolerance by positively regulating the expression of genes involved in the HS response and ROS scavenging and exhibits potential as a target gene in Chinese cabbage breeding to increase heat stress tolerance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetable Genomics and Breeding Research)

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19 pages, 4988 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Pistachio Phenology and Yield in a Cold-Winter Region of Spain: The Status of the Cultivation and Performance of Three Cultivars

by Lidia Núñez, Hugo Martín, José Manuel Mirás-Avalos and Sara Álvarez

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121235 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

In recent years, pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) cultivation is undergoing a great expansion in Spain, which is promising for regions where water and winter chilling are not limiting. Many areas of Castilla y León (Spain) provide suitable conditions for pistachio production, but [...] Read more.

In recent years, pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) cultivation is undergoing a great expansion in Spain, which is promising for regions where water and winter chilling are not limiting. Many areas of Castilla y León (Spain) provide suitable conditions for pistachio production, but heat requirement could be a limiting factor. The aims of this study were (i) to investigate the status of pistachios in Castilla y León and the relationships between phenology and agroclimatic conditions and (ii) to assess the performance of three pistachio cultivars (‘Kerman’, ‘Lost Hills’, and ‘Golden Hills’) in a plantation within this region. This work describes the phenological and productive behavior of three pistachio varieties in seven orchards over three years. The chilling requirements were exceeded, and heat accumulation was sufficient to complete the cycle in all seasons. Bloom and harvest occurred later in ‘Kerman’ than in ‘Golden Hills’ and ‘Lost Hills’. In general, ‘Kerman’ had higher nut yield than the other two cultivars but also had more non-split and blank nuts, aspects that should be considered for future plantations. Despite the interannual variability in yield, a trend to increase the production with water received was observed, but this also affected the quality and modified the splitting percentage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)

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14 pages, 5015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biogenic Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Improve In Vitro Growth of Blueberries

by Luca Regni, Daniele Del Buono, Maurizio Micheli, Simona Lucia Facchin, Arianna Cesarini, Dario Priolo and Primo Proietti

Horticulturae 2024, 10(12), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10121234 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Nanotechnology offers promising applications in agriculture by enhancing crop growth, yield, and antioxidant defenses. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on the in vitro growth of two blueberry cultivars, Brigitta and Duke. The ZnO-NPs [...] Read more.

Nanotechnology offers promising applications in agriculture by enhancing crop growth, yield, and antioxidant defenses. This study is the first to evaluate the effect of biogenic zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) on the in vitro growth of two blueberry cultivars, Brigitta and Duke. The ZnO-NPs were synthesized biogenically using an extract of Lemna minor L., which is a free-floating aquatic plant, as a capping and modulating agent, and were added to the plant’s growth media at different dosages (0, 2, 6, and 18 mg L−¹). The ZnO-NPs significantly increased the shoot number, fresh biomass, and dry weight in both cultivars without affecting shoot vitality, length, or basal callus formation. Moreover, the increases in carotenoids in both cultivars, as well as chlorophyll and and soluble proteins in the ‘Brigitta’ cultivar, confirm the prompted benefits and possibly evidence genotype-specific metabolic adaptations in response to ZnO-NPs. These results demonstrate that biogenic ZnO-NPs can effectively promote the in vitro growth of blueberry explants, offering improvements in micropropagation efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection The State-of-the-Art Propagation and Breeding Techniques for Horticulture Crops)

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18 pages, 1915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intergeneric Transfer of Simple Sequence Repeat Molecular Markers for the Study of Chaenomeles as Fruit Crop Breeding Material

by Gunārs Lācis, Katrīna Kārkliņa, Toms Bartulsons and Edīte Kaufmane

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111233 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

The genus Chaenomeles, part of the subfamily Maloideae within the Rosaceae family, comprises five recognized species and has long been valued for its ornamental qualities. However, the use of Chaenomeles japonica as a fruit crop is relatively recent, with its introduction into [...] Read more.

The genus Chaenomeles, part of the subfamily Maloideae within the Rosaceae family, comprises five recognized species and has long been valued for its ornamental qualities. However, the use of Chaenomeles japonica as a fruit crop is relatively recent, with its introduction into targeted breeding activities only occurring in the 1950s. Due to this, genetic information on the genus remains limited, and the application of molecular markers in crop breeding and further development have been narrow, relying primarily on non-specific marker applications in germplasm analysis. One potential solution is the transfer of molecular markers between genera, specifically from the related Maloideae genera. This study aimed to test the transferability of SSR markers developed for Malus to Chaenomeles, and to analyze the structure of available Chaenomeles germplasm. By including 74 Chaenomeles genotypes, 95 SSR markers originally developed for Malus were tested, with 25 proving effective for characterizing Chaenomeles germplasm. These adapted SSR markers successfully differentiated among Chaenomeles species, including Chaenomeles japonica, Chaenomeles speciosa, Chaenomeles cathayensis, and hybrids like Chaenomeles × superba and Chaenomeles × californica. The markers demonstrated high stability and repeatability, indicating their suitability for large-scale genetic research, species composition assessment, and breeding material evaluation. Given the limited studies on SSR markers in Chaenomeles, this research lays the foundation for further exploration, potentially expanding into the genetic diversity assessment and trait screening for breeding. As genetic research on Chaenomeles is still in its early stages, the development of additional markers will be crucial for advancing this crop. Full article

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

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27 pages, 11181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Food Production, Cooling Potential, and Gardener Perspectives in Urban Allotment Gardens of Valladolid, Spain

by Francisco Tomatis, Monika Egerer and Luis Manuel Navas-Gracia

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111232 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

The renaissance in urban agriculture is driven by its contributions to fostering more sustainable, healthy, and renaturalized cities. While urban gardens are usually designed to improve food security or serve social purposes, they also offer additional benefits. The aim of this research is [...] Read more.

The renaissance in urban agriculture is driven by its contributions to fostering more sustainable, healthy, and renaturalized cities. While urban gardens are usually designed to improve food security or serve social purposes, they also offer additional benefits. The aim of this research is to study the urban allotment gardens in Valladolid, Spain, highlighting their capacity to support low-income populations and their potential contribution to urban cooling. As a result of research in twelve plots across four gardens, we found that crop selection in Valladolid aligns with broader urban gardening trends in the Global North, with production adapted to limited plot space and varying significantly by season. In addition, we observed that urban allotment gardens provide more stable and cooler temperatures compared to urban gray spaces, although not as significantly as urban parks. The cooling effect was most pronounced during the summer, a season with the highest number of crops and the warmest temperatures. The study identified that greater crop cover above soil had a more significant cooling effect at the plot level. Surprisingly, crop abundance and crop diversity showed a weak correlation with cooling benefits. As a complement, survey questionnaires conducted with gardeners revealed their awareness of climate change and its perceived direct threat to their crops, health, and city. The future concerns of gardeners regarding the availability of water for both crop growth and the development of urban allotment gardens are emphasized. The findings provide results on self-produced food, urban cooling, and the opinion of gardeners, underscoring the multifunctional contributions of urban gardens to cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Adaptation of Horticultural Crops to Climate Change Challenges)

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16 pages, 3825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Humic Acids, Seaweed Extract and Equisetum arvense L. Extracts on Morphological, Histological and Physiological Parameters of the Ornamental Plant Ocimum basilicum Rokokó

by Szilvia Kisvarga, Katalin Horotán, Dóra Hamar-Farkas and László Orlóci

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111231 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Ocimum basilicum L. is a multipurpose plant species used in the horticultural sector as a medicinal, herbaceous and ornamental plant. In our experiment, the Hungarian cultivar O. basilicum Rokokó was treated with algae (Ecklonia maxima (Osbeck) Papenf.), horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.) [...] Read more.

Ocimum basilicum L. is a multipurpose plant species used in the horticultural sector as a medicinal, herbaceous and ornamental plant. In our experiment, the Hungarian cultivar O. basilicum Rokokó was treated with algae (Ecklonia maxima (Osbeck) Papenf.), horsetail (Equisetum arvense L.) extracts and humic extracts. The effect of the biostimulants on the groups was assessed by morphological (leaf number, leaf area, fresh green mass, fresh root mass), histological (number of volatile oil glands) and physiological (chlorophyll content, peroxidase enzyme activity, proline levels) measurements. Obtained results were evaluated and it was concluded that the plants treated with algae and E. arvense extracts showed remarkable results for all the parameters measured. It was concluded that these extracts can be used as biostimulants in the cultivation of basil seedlings as ornamental plants, as they have a beneficial effect on the development of the plant. The humic extracts were less effective during the time period studied, probably due to their high molecular weight, which would have resulted in a longer absorption time. For the humic extracts, foliar application was less effective than irrigation, probably due to rapid damping-off, which reduced the penetration of humic extracts into the leaves. Though morphological characteristics are especially important for basil used as an ornamental plant, the plant’s essential oil content can also be important in attracting attention in urban plantings. It was found that humic extracts applied (22.8 pcs/sampling area) with irrigation had a strong effect on essential oil glands, in contrast when used as a spray (13.1 pcs/sampling area). The lowest stress levels were obtained in the group treated with irrigated humus extracts (274.96 µg/mg), which may be related to the continuous supply of nutrients, and in the group treated with E. arvense extract, silicon (219.05 µg/mg) may be the result of hermetic effects. In conclusion, E. arvense and algae extracts can be effective biostimulants in the horticultural sector for the seedling production of ornamental basil, and after a longer growing period, humic extracts can be used effectively by irrigation after planting. The use of natural extracts can also give a green light to this segment for sustainable and environmentally friendly cultivation, which can also better resist the effects of climate change and urbanisation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Insights into Horticultural Crop Ecophysiology)

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14 pages, 1988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Soil, Leaf, Fruitlet, and Fruit Nutrients, Along with Fruit Quality, to Predict Post-Storage Quality of Staccato Sweet Cherries

by Mehdi Sharifi, William Wolk, Keyvan Asefpour Vakilian, Hao Xu, Stephanie Slamka and Karen Fong

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111230 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Predicting the post-storage quality of cherry fruits is crucial for determining their suitability for long-distance shipping or domestic distribution. This study aimed to forecast key quality attributes of Staccato sweet cherries after storage, simulating shipping conditions, by analyzing spring soil, leaf, fruitlet, and [...] Read more.

Predicting the post-storage quality of cherry fruits is crucial for determining their suitability for long-distance shipping or domestic distribution. This study aimed to forecast key quality attributes of Staccato sweet cherries after storage, simulating shipping conditions, by analyzing spring soil, leaf, fruitlet, and at-harvest data from thirty orchards in the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada, over two years. A support vector machine (SVM) was used to predict post-storage variables, with pre-harvest and at-harvest data selected by a genetic algorithm. The SVM accurately predicted soluble solids (R² = 0.88), firmness (R² = 0.83), and acidity (R² = 0.79) after four weeks of storage, as well as visual disorders like slip skin and stem browning. Spring soil properties (Ca, Mg), leaf (N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, B), and fruitlet data (N, Ca, Mg, B) were key predictors. Leaf Ca was vital for firmness and total soluble solids (TSS) prediction, while N in leaves and fruitlets influenced firmness, acidity, and disorders. Leaf Zn helped predict weight and acidity/TSS ratio, and Mg impacted fruit color. Pre-harvest leaf nutrition measured 3–4 weeks before harvest, proved most effective in predicting post-storage quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orchard Management: Strategies for Yield and Quality)

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16 pages, 13614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis Revealed Mechanism Underlying Anthocyanin Biosynthesis During Flower Color Formation in Lagerstroemia indica

by Zilong Gao, Zhuomei Chen, Jinfeng Wang and Weixin Liu

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111229 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Lagerstroemia indica is a widely used ornamental woody plant known for its summer flowering and significant ornamental and economic value. While L. indica boasts a variety of rich flower colors, the molecular mechanisms underlying this color formation remain unclear. In this study, we [...] Read more.

Lagerstroemia indica is a widely used ornamental woody plant known for its summer flowering and significant ornamental and economic value. While L. indica boasts a variety of rich flower colors, the molecular mechanisms underlying this color formation remain unclear. In this study, we selected three different flower colors of L. indica—white (W), red (R), and purple (P)—for transcriptome and metabolome analysis. The metabolome analysis identified 538 flavonoids, with 22 anthocyanins highly accumulated in the red and purple flowers. RNA-seq analysis annotated a total of 35,505 genes. Furthermore, we identified 42 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, with their expression levels aligning with anthocyanin content. Correlation analysis revealed that 19 MYB and 11 bHLH transcription factors are likely involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis. Additionally, we identified 59 auxin biosynthesis and signaling-related genes that are positively correlated with anthocyanin-related genes and metabolites, suggesting that auxin may play a role in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis in L. indica. This study provides valuable insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying anthocyanin accumulation and color formation in L. indica petals and identifies several potential genes, laying the groundwork for further research on regulatory mechanisms and genetic improvement of L. indica. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Ornamental Crops: The State of the Art 2024)

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24 pages, 6532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification of AGO, DCL, and RDR Genes and Their Expression Analysis in Response to Drought Stress in Peach

by Mohammad Belal, Charmaine Ntini, Cherono Sylvia, Misganaw Wassie, Mahmoud Magdy, Collins Ogutu, Mohamed Ezzat, Md Dulal Ali Mollah, Yunpeng Cao, Weihan Zhang, Elsayed Nishawy and Yuepeng Han

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111228 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Small RNAs (sRNAs) control a wide range of development and physiological pathways in plants. To address the response of sRNA biogenesis to drought stress, we identified sRNA biogenesis genes, including 11 encoding argonautes (AGO), 8 encoding Dicer-like proteins (DCL), and 9 encoding RNA-dependent [...] Read more.

Small RNAs (sRNAs) control a wide range of development and physiological pathways in plants. To address the response of sRNA biogenesis to drought stress, we identified sRNA biogenesis genes, including 11 encoding argonautes (AGO), 8 encoding Dicer-like proteins (DCL), and 9 encoding RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RDR) in the peach genome. Notably, the largest numbers of sRNA biogenesis genes are located to chromosome 1. The PAZ, PIWI, and MID domains were identified in PpAGOs, while the ribonuclease IIIa and IIIb domains were characterized in PpDCLs. The RDRP domain was recognized in PpRDRs. Orthologous similarity and collinearity analyses between Arabidopsis and peach revealed 5, 1, and 2 collinear blocks in AGOs, DCLs, and RDRs, respectively. Moreover, 41, 40, and 42 cis-acting elements were located in the promoters of PpAGOs, PpDCLs, and PpRDRs, respectively, with the majority related to drought stress response. Analysis of RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data revealed that sRNA biogenesis genes were involved in drought stress response in different tissues. Furthermore, the expression of candidate genes was verified in two peach cultivars, Beijing 2-7 (BJ2-7) and Sinai (SN), which are tested as drought-tolerant and sensitive cultivars, respectively, based on the physiological and biochemical analyses, which revealed that the Chinese peach cultivar ‘BJ2-7’ exhibits greater drought resistance compared to the Egyptian peach cultivar ‘SN’. Interestingly, the expression of PpAGO2b, PpDCL2b, PpDCL4, and PpRDR4 genes was induced in ‘BJ2-7’ but inhibited in ‘SN’ under drought stress. Overall, this study provides insight into the roles of sRNA biogenesis genes in response to drought stress in peach. Full article

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

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12 pages, 5504 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Nutrient Management During the Nursery Period on the Growth, Tissue Nutrient Content, and Flowering Characteristics of Hydroponic Strawberry in 2022

by Su-Hyun Choi, Dae-Young Kim, Sun Yi Lee and Kyoung Hee Lee

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111227 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

The objective of a strawberry nursery is to produce numerous runners and improve the quality of the runner plants, ensuring their uniformity and health. About 80% of the strawberry nurseries in Wanju-gun, Republic of Korea, are cultivated by the growers themselves, which results [...] Read more.

The objective of a strawberry nursery is to produce numerous runners and improve the quality of the runner plants, ensuring their uniformity and health. About 80% of the strawberry nurseries in Wanju-gun, Republic of Korea, are cultivated by the growers themselves, which results in variations in the cultivation techniques. Different methods are employed to reduce the nitrogen levels to promote floral bud initiation in the later nursery stage, and these methods vary between farms. This study was conducted on the ‘Sulhyang’ cultivar (Fragaria × ananassa Dutch. cv. Sulhyang) to measure the nutrient content in runner plants obtained from eight growers using various cultivation methods, supply EC levels, nutrient solution termination times, etc., and to correlate the nutrient levels with floral bud initiation during the nursery period. Four investigations were conducted at 15-day intervals from Julian day 214 (2 August) to Julian day 259 (16 September) in 2022, focusing on nutrient management during the nursery period, runner plant growth, petiole nitrate nitrogen content (NO₃-N), and soluble solid content (SSC). The NO₃-N content decreased, and the SSC/NO₃-N ratio increased near the transplanting period, as assessed using a rapid inorganic nutrient diagnostic device. The proportion of runner plants that had advanced to stage 3 or above in floral bud initiation was investigated using a stereomicroscope. As a result, differences in the percentage of floral bud initiation were confirmed based on the varying nutrient management among the farms. In this study, on Julian day 243 (31 August 2022), there was a strong negative correlation (r = −0.86, r² = 0.73) between the NO₃-N content in the runner plants and the percentage of floral bud initiation. These results emphasize the importance of nutrient management during the nursery period, especially for strawberry self-propagating growers, and demonstrate a strong correlation between nutrient content and floral bud initiation in strawberries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Protected Culture)

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23 pages, 17355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Machine Learning Natural Ventilation Rate Model by Studying the Wind Field Inside and Around Multiple-Row Chinese Solar Greenhouses

by Ran Liu, Yunyan Shi, Pierre-Emmanuel Bournet and Kaige Liu

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111226 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

This paper experimented with a methodology of machine learning modelling using virtual samples generated by fast CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations in order to predict the greenhouse natural ventilation. However, the output natural ventilation rates using fast two-dimensional (2D) CFD models are not [...] Read more.

This paper experimented with a methodology of machine learning modelling using virtual samples generated by fast CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulations in order to predict the greenhouse natural ventilation. However, the output natural ventilation rates using fast two-dimensional (2D) CFD models are not always consistent with the three-dimensional (3D) one for all the scenarios. The first contribution of this paper is a proposed comparative modelling methodology between two-dimensional and three-dimensional CFD studies, regarding its validity, especially when buildings are in rows. The results show that the error of the ventilation rate prediction could exceed 50%, if 2D models are not properly used. Subsequently, in those scenarios where the 2D and the 3D models had equal accuracy, nearly one thousand samples were generated using fast 2D CFD simulations to train a natural ventilation rate regression tree model. This model is efficient to deal with the combined effect of wind pressure and thermal gradients under various vent configurations, with only four necessary inputs. In addition, by analyzing the wind speed distribution contour of the outdoor wind field around the greenhouse rows, the optimal wind speed-measuring locations were determined to eliminate interference for predicting the natural ventilation rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivation and Production of Greenhouse Horticulture)

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16 pages, 4479 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drought and Salinity Stresses Response in Three Korean Native Herbaceous Plants and Their Suitability as Garden Plants

by Saeng Geul Baek, Jung Won Shin, Jae Ik Nam, Jeong Min Seo, Jung Min Kim and Su Young Woo

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111225 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Native garden plants significantly contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem functions in urban environments. This study aimed to identify the physiochemical differences among native herbaceous plants subjected to drought or salinity stress and to assess their potential as garden plants adaptable [...] Read more.

Native garden plants significantly contribute to the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem functions in urban environments. This study aimed to identify the physiochemical differences among native herbaceous plants subjected to drought or salinity stress and to assess their potential as garden plants adaptable to outdoor conditions and global climate change. Physiological parameters, such as chlorophyll (SD; −86.7% and −61.5%, SS: −85% and −76.5%) and carotenoid (SD; −84.5% and −58.3%, SS; −80.5% and −76%), decreased in Melica grandiflora and Carex forficula in severe drought or salinity treatment. In contrast, Carex boottiana maintained high water-use efficiency (SD: +97.5%, SS: +262.9%) under severe drought or salinity conditions, with no significant changes observed in chlorophyll (SD: +9.5%, SS: −3.7%) or carotenoid levels (SD: +35.2%, SS: +0.3%) compared to the WW or UT conditions. Biochemical analyses indicated that C. boottiana exhibited lower or slightly higher levels of malondialdehyde in SS (−22.5%) and reactive oxygen species such as O₂⁻ (SD: +9.9%; SS: −9.4%) than those observed in the other species under severe stress conditions. Principal component analysis revealed clear differences in tolerance levels among the native species. C. boottiana demonstrated high adaptability to both drought and salinity stress, indicating its potential as a sustainable and resilient garden material for urban landscapes facing severe climatic challenges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)

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23 pages, 1327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Foliar Silicon Application in the Era of Climate Change as a Part of Strategy to Reduce Water Requirements in Mediterranean Viticulture

by Lia-Tânia Dinis, Natália Mota, Sandra Martins, António Castro Ribeiro, José Moutinho-Pereira and Sandra Pereira

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111224 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Rising temperatures and water scarcity due to climate change are significant challenges for Mediterranean viticulture, particularly in the Douro Valley, a prominent winemaking region. Silicon (Si) has gained attention as a potential solution for mitigating these environmental stresses, especially in areas with limited [...] Read more.

Rising temperatures and water scarcity due to climate change are significant challenges for Mediterranean viticulture, particularly in the Douro Valley, a prominent winemaking region. Silicon (Si) has gained attention as a potential solution for mitigating these environmental stresses, especially in areas with limited water resources. This study explores the foliar application of Si as a promising strategy to reduce water requirements in vineyards, specifically for the Touriga Franca variety, thereby supporting more sustainable water use. Four treatments were tested: non-irrigated control (C−), an irrigated control under a deficit irrigation regime (25% ETc; C+), and two Si concentrations (7% Si-Si1 and 20% Si-Si2) applied to non-irrigated plants. Results demonstrate that Si-treated plants improved physiological resilience, as evidenced by enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, greater water-use efficiency, and higher biochemical quality in both leaves and berries. Additionally, Si application increased leaf flavonoids and simultaneously improved must composition due to its overall influence on vine physiology, indicating its potential as a sustainable alternative to irrigation for reducing summer stress. This research suggests that foliar Si application could be a valuable, eco-friendly strategy to support sustainable viticulture under increasingly arid conditions, reducing the irrigation needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

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8 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

First Experience of Late Pruning on Kékfrankos Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) in Eger Wine Region (Hungary)

by Szabolcs Villangó, András Szekeres, György Végvári, Gitta Ficzek, Gergely Simon and Zsolt Zsófi

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111223 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

Traditional winter pruning in dormancy (BBCH-00) as control (C) and three late pruning treatments, LP1 (wool stage—BBCH-05), LP2 (two leaves folded—BBCH-12), and LP3 (four leaves folded—BBCH-14), were applied on Kékfrankos grapevines. The evolution of the phenological growth stages, grape juice, wine analytical parameters, [...] Read more.

Traditional winter pruning in dormancy (BBCH-00) as control (C) and three late pruning treatments, LP1 (wool stage—BBCH-05), LP2 (two leaves folded—BBCH-12), and LP3 (four leaves folded—BBCH-14), were applied on Kékfrankos grapevines. The evolution of the phenological growth stages, grape juice, wine analytical parameters, and phenolic composition were evaluated. The quantitative aspects of the grape berry, bunch, yield, and cane were also assessed. Our goal was to reach a decrease in sugar content and an increase in acidity. Delaying or postponing the phenological phases to bring technological and phenolic ripening closer together was also one of our objectives. These were accomplished, but the negative aspects of late pruning, which resulted in a reduction in the diameter and weight of the canes, should also be taken into account. We also found that, the later the late pruning, the more the yield was reduced. By postponing pruning, the phenological phases were also extended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights into Sustainable Viticulture)

18 pages, 2453 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Application of Conventional and Organic Fertilizers During Wild Edible Species Cultivation: A Case Study of Purslane and Common Sowthistle

by Efraimia Hajisolomou, Giannis Neofytou, Spyridon A. Petropoulos and Nikolaos Tzortzakis

Horticulturae 2024, 10(11), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10111222 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

The introduction of alternative crops, including wild edible and medicinal plants, in organic cultivation systems presents an attractive approach to producing healthy and high-quality products due to their content in beneficial compounds and increased nutritional value. The current study evaluated the impact of [...] Read more.

The introduction of alternative crops, including wild edible and medicinal plants, in organic cultivation systems presents an attractive approach to producing healthy and high-quality products due to their content in beneficial compounds and increased nutritional value. The current study evaluated the impact of organic and conventional fertilization on the growth, quality, nutrient status and stress response of the two wild edible species, e.g., purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) and common sowthistle (Sonchus oleraceus L.), under field conditions. The fertilization treatments included the following: a control (NoFert) treatment with no fertilizers added, base dressing with conventional fertilization (CoFert), base dressing with organic fertilization (OrFert), base dressing and side dressing with conventional fertilization (OrFert + S_CoFert) and base dressing and side dressing with organic fertilization (CoFert + S_CoFert). Organic fertilization was carried out using a commercial vinasse-based organic fertilizer. In both purslane and common sowthistle, the application of organic fertilizers provided comparable or even enhanced plant growth traits, macronutrient content (i.e., P and K for purslane, and N for sowthistle) and quality (i.e., total soluble solids) compared to the application of conventional fertilizers. On the other hand, conventional fertilization with supplementary fertilization positively influenced the plant growth of purslane (i.e., plant height and stems biomass), as well as its physiological parameters (i.e., chlorophylls content), total phenolics content and antioxidant capacity (i.e., DPPH and FRAP). Similarly, conventional fertilization led to increased total phenolics and antioxidants in common sowthistle, while variable effects were observed regarding plant physiology, stress response and antioxidant capacity indices. In conclusion, the use of organic fertilization in both purslane and common sowthistle exhibited a performance similar to that of conventional fertilization, although further optimization of fertilization regimes is needed to improve the quality of the edible products. Full article

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

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