Journal Description
Horticulturae
Horticulturae
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society of Horticultural Sciences (SECH) is affiliated with Horticulturae and its members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, FSTA, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Horticulture) / CiteScore - Q2 (Horticulture)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.1 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Overexpression of CBL-Interacting Protein Kinases 23 Improves Tolerance to Low-Nitrogen Stress in Potato Plants
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050526 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
CBL-interacting protein kinases (CIPKs) play important regulatory roles in plant growth development and abiotic stress tolerance. However, the biological roles of these genes in response to low-nitrate (LN) stress in potato plants have not been determined. Here, we reported that StCIPK23 was expressed
[...] Read more.
CBL-interacting protein kinases (CIPKs) play important regulatory roles in plant growth development and abiotic stress tolerance. However, the biological roles of these genes in response to low-nitrate (LN) stress in potato plants have not been determined. Here, we reported that StCIPK23 was expressed mainly in roots and leaves. StCIPK23 was located mainly in the cell membrane, nucleus, and cytoplasm. Further research suggested that, compared with wild-type (WT) plants, StCIPK23-overexpressing plants were taller and had significantly greater nitrate and ammonium nitrogen contents under LN stress. StCIPK23 overexpression can increase StAT, StNRT2.1, StNR, StGS1-3, and StGOGAT expression levels in StCIPK23 transgenic seedlings compared to those in WT plants under LN stress. The results of yeast two-hybrid and luciferase complementation imaging experiments suggested that StCIPK23 could interact with StCBL3. Real-time reverse transcription–PCR revealed the StCIPK23 expression level peaked at 6 h and the StCBL3 expression level peaked at 9 h in the roots under LN stress. In conclusion, we found that StCIPK23 and StCBL3 form a complex to regulate the expression of key genes in the nitrogen metabolism pathway to improve LN tolerance in potato plants.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Physiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Practical Guidelines for Farm Waste Utilization in Sustainable Kale Production
by
Ornprapa Thepsilvisut, Nuengruethai Srikan, Preuk Chutimanukul, Dusit Athinuwat, Wilawan Chuaboon, Rusama Marubodee and Hiroshi Ehara
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050525 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Natural amendments from agricultural waste to improve soil physicochemical properties continuously attract research interest in promoting eco-friendly plant production. The present study evaluated the proper use of sawdust, biochar, and compost made from farm waste for kale production from seedling propagation to field
[...] Read more.
Natural amendments from agricultural waste to improve soil physicochemical properties continuously attract research interest in promoting eco-friendly plant production. The present study evaluated the proper use of sawdust, biochar, and compost made from farm waste for kale production from seedling propagation to field conditions. From the seedling propagation process, the results demonstrate that the most suitable growing medium for kale seedings was 0.5:1:1 v/v of sawdust + biochar + compost, which gave the fastest mean germination times (2.71 days) and the highest seed germination percentage (78.33%). In addition to investigating the selected growing media as the soil amendments at five different rates (0, 6.25, 12.50, 18.75, 25.00, and 31.25 t ha−1), the result reveals that the fresh weight of marketable leaves was significantly highest under the 31.25 t ha−1 treatment. The application rate that yielded the highest gross profit margins was eight times higher than the control. Moreover, in some harvesting periods, the kale leaf yields under the treatment of 31.25 t ha−1 showed higher total chlorophyll and carotenoid contents.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Pollen and Floral Organ Morphology of 18 Oil-Tea Genotypes and Its Systematic Significance
by
Qian Yin, Zhongfei Pan, Yanming Li, Huan Xiong, Joseph Masabni, Deyi Yuan and Feng Zou
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 524; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050524 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Oil-tea belongs to the Camellia genus, an important oil crop in China. However, oil-tea is taxonomically challenging due to its morphological variation, polyploidy, and interspecific hybridization. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the flower organs’ morphology and pollen micro-morphology of 18 oil-tea
[...] Read more.
Oil-tea belongs to the Camellia genus, an important oil crop in China. However, oil-tea is taxonomically challenging due to its morphological variation, polyploidy, and interspecific hybridization. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the flower organs’ morphology and pollen micro-morphology of 18 oil-tea genotypes in detail and discussed their significance for oil-tea taxonomy. The quantitative parameters of flowers were measured using Vernier caliper measurements. Pollen morphology was observed and photographed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicated that the flower size varied significantly among the tested oil-tea genotypes, with the corolla diameter ranging from 42.25 μm in C. meiocarpa ‘LP’ to 89.51 μm in C. oleifera ‘ASX09’. The pollen grains of oil-tea are monads and medium grade in pollen size. There were two types of polar views, including triangular or subcircular, with a polar axis length (P) ranging from 27.5 μm in C. oleifera ‘CY67’ to 59.04 μm in C. mairei (H. Lév.) Melch. var. lapidea (Y.C. Wu) Sealy. The equatorial views exhibited oblate, spherical, or oblong shapes, with an equatorial axis length (E) of 21.32 to 41.62 μm. The pollen exine sculpture was perforate, verrucate, and reticulate. The perforation lumina diameter (D) ranged from 0.29 μm in C. magniflora Chang to 1.22 μm in C. yuhsienensis Hu, and the perforation width (W) varied from 0.77 μm in C. osmantha to 1.40 μm in C. gauchowensis ‘HM349’, respectively. Qualitative clustering analysis (Q-type cluster) and principal component analysis (PCA) were conducted using eleven indexes of flower and pollen morphology, and the 18 oil-tea genotypes were classified into three categories. In addition, the correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between pollen size and flower morphology or pollen exine sculpture. These results offer valuable information on the classification and identification of the 18 oil-tea germplasm resources.
Full article
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
An Updated Isotopic Database of Fertilizers Used in Intensive Organic Farming: A Case Study on Protein Hydrolyzed Derivatives and Chelated Nutrients
by
José Manuel Muñoz-Redondo, Francisco Julián Cuevas, José Carlos Montenegro, José Luis Ordóñez-Díaz and José Manuel Moreno-Rojas
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 523; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050523 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2024
Abstract
The global demand for organic food products has rapidly increased over the last years, becoming an emerging niche market targeting the high-income segment. The higher retailing price for organic food products may increase the risk of fraudulent practices at the different stages of
[...] Read more.
The global demand for organic food products has rapidly increased over the last years, becoming an emerging niche market targeting the high-income segment. The higher retailing price for organic food products may increase the risk of fraudulent practices at the different stages of the food supply chain, and consequently, substantial control is needed. Currently, the authentication of organic food products, such as those of plant origin, remains a key challenge in analytical chemistry. While stable isotopes have emerged as a powerful tool for this purpose, most studies have focused on crops, missing the agricultural inputs used for fertilization that influence the isotopic values of the crops. In this study, we aimed to isotopically characterize commonly used fertilizers, soil conditioners, and micronutrient fertilizers in intensive organic agriculture in the largest organic production region in the world (Almería, Spain). Our goal was to clarify the limitations that nitrogen isotopic fingerprinting presents for the fertilizer input industry and to characterize the organic inputs. The conventional fertilizers analyzed in this study showed low δ15N values compared to their organic counterparts, except for some plant-based fertilizers, protein hydrolyzed fertilizers, and chelated nutrients. Both protein hydrolyzed fertilizers and micronutrient fertilizers presented a wide range of variability in their δ15N values, including some very low or even negative values, more similar to those of conventional fertilizers. The results of this study highlight the challenges of authenticating organic foods in agriculture when using nitrogen isotope analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Authenticity in Organic Horticultural Production: Recent Studies and Applications)
►▼
Show Figures
Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) YTH Domain-Containing RNA-Binding Protein (YTP) Family Members Participate in Low-Temperature Treatment and Waterlogging Stress Responses
by
Yidan Zhang, Tianli Guo, Jingyuan Li, Libo Jiang and Na Wang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 522; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050522 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
YT521-B homology (YTH) domain-containing RNA-binding proteins (YTPs) are important N6-methyladenosine (m6A) readers that have crucial roles in determining the destiny of m6A-modified RNAs, which are the most widespread RNA modifications in eukaryotes. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
[...] Read more.
YT521-B homology (YTH) domain-containing RNA-binding proteins (YTPs) are important N6-methyladenosine (m6A) readers that have crucial roles in determining the destiny of m6A-modified RNAs, which are the most widespread RNA modifications in eukaryotes. Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) hold significant importance in both dietary consumption patterns and scientific inquiries. While the YTP gene family has been characterized in tomatoes, their specific reactions to the low temperature and waterlogging stresses remain to be elucidated. In our study, nine tomato SlYTPs could be divided into five subclasses, YTHDFa-c and YTHDCa-b. After gene cloning and measuring their expression levels under stress conditions, it was revealed that SlYTP8 exhibited increased sensitivity to low-temperature treatment, while the expression levels of SlYTP9 were notably upregulated in leaf tissues subjected to waterlogging conditions. As members of the YTHDFc subfamily, SlYTP8 and SlYTP9 are both localized in the cytoplasm. Nevertheless, overexpression (OE) of SlYTP8 increased the sensitivity of tomato plants to low-temperature treatment, which was manifested by a higher accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and a weaker reactive oxygen species scavenging ability compared to wild-type (WT) tomatoes. However, in comparison to WT plants, the leaves of SlYTP9 OE tomatoes showed higher chlorophyll content and a stronger reactive oxygen species scavenging ability after 3 days of waterlogging treatment, thereby increasing the resistance of tomatoes to waterlogging stress. Moreover, in order to investigate the possible molecular mechanisms underlying their responses to the low temperature and waterlogging stresses, the transcription factors and interacting protein networks associated with SlYTP8/9 promoters and proteins were also predicted, respectively. These results could fill the gap in the understanding of tomato YTPs in response to the low temperature and waterlogging stresses, while also providing a theoretical and experimental basis for subsequent studies on their molecular mechanisms.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
Open AccessArticle
Enhancing Secondary Metabolite Production in Pelargonium graveolens Hort. Cell Cultures: Eliciting Effects of Chitosan and Jasmonic Acid on Bioactive Compound Production
by
Amine Elbouzidi, Mohamed Taibi, Abdellah Baraich, Mounir Haddou, El Hassania Loukili, Abdeslam Asehraou, François Mesnard and Mohamed Addi
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050521 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
This study explores the effects of chitosan (CHT) and jasmonic acid (JA) elicitors on rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens Hort.) cell suspension cultures, aiming to enhance the production of phenolics and flavonoids and antioxidant properties. Elicitation with CHT and JA resulted in varied
[...] Read more.
This study explores the effects of chitosan (CHT) and jasmonic acid (JA) elicitors on rose-scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens Hort.) cell suspension cultures, aiming to enhance the production of phenolics and flavonoids and antioxidant properties. Elicitation with CHT and JA resulted in varied biomass yields and callus characteristics, with higher concentrations generally leading to increased phenolic accumulation. Optimal biomass was achieved with CHT4 (75 mg/mL) and JA3 (50 µM) treatments. HPLC-DAD analysis revealed changes in phenolic compound composition and quantities, with specific compounds induced by either CHT4 or JA3. For instance, gallic acid content increased significantly in CHT4-treated cells, while catechin content increased notably in both CHT4 and JA3 treatments. Antioxidant enzyme activities like superoxide dismutase and peroxidase increased with elicitor concentration, particularly in CHT4 and JA3 treatments. Both treatments exhibited potent antioxidant activity, with JA3 exhibiting the lowest IC50 value in the DPPH assay and highest total antioxidant capacity (TAC) values. Surprisingly, both CHT4 and JA3 extracts effectively inhibited tyrosinase activity. These findings underscore the efficacy of CHT and JA elicitors in enhancing phenolic and flavonoid production, boosting antioxidant capacity, and inhibiting tyrosinase activity in P. graveolens cultures, offering promising implications for further research and industrial applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Production of Plant Bioactive Compounds by Horticultural Crops through Agronomical and Biotechnological Approaches)
Open AccessArticle
Jasmonates Play an Important Role in Differential Accumulation of Key Oolong Tea Aromas in Two Tea Varieties (Camellia sinensis)
by
Xin-Lei Li, Hui-Li Deng, Yu-Cheng Zheng, Xiang-Rui Kong, Qiu-Sheng Zhong, Xiao-Mei You, Rui-Yang Shan, Zheng-He Lin, Zhi-Hui Chen and Chang-Song Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050520 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Aroma is an important factor in the measurement of the quality and market value of oolong tea. However, it is hard to develop an oolong tea with good aroma quality using unsuitable tea varieties. To explore the key factors of tea varieties in
[...] Read more.
Aroma is an important factor in the measurement of the quality and market value of oolong tea. However, it is hard to develop an oolong tea with good aroma quality using unsuitable tea varieties. To explore the key factors of tea varieties in the formation of oolong tea aromas, the fresh leaves of the Chungui variety (CG, suitable for oolong tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) and the Fuyun No. 6 variety (F6, unsuitable for oolong tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) were harvested and treated by withering and mechanical stress in order. Then, aroma, transcriptome, and jasmonate (JA) contents, and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), of samples were investigated. The contents of characteristic oolong tea aromas, including indole, (E)-β-ocimene, (E)-nerolidol, α-farnesene, and jasmine lactone, were all accumulated in much higher quantities in the CG variety after withering and mechanical stress. Accordingly, the coding genes of aroma formation synthases TSB2, OCS, NES, AFS, and LOX1, and related genes in MVA, MEP, and ALA pathways, were all much more highly activated. These differential reactions are mainly caused by the higher accumulation of jasmonates, especially methyl jasmonate, a type of important plant signal chemical, in CG after mechanical stress. WGCNA analysis indicated 34 different transcription factors from different families are predicted to be involved in this jasmonate-responsive reaction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Non-Destructive Detection of Cerasus Humilis Fruit Quality by Hyperspectral Imaging Combined with Chemometric Method
by
Bin Wang, Hua Yang, Lili Li and Shujuan Zhang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050519 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Cerasus Humilis fruit is susceptible to rapid color changes post-harvest, which degrades its quality. This research utilized hyperspectral imaging technology to detect and visually analyze the soluble solid content (SSC) and firmness of the fruit, aiming to improve quality and achieve optimal pricing.
[...] Read more.
Cerasus Humilis fruit is susceptible to rapid color changes post-harvest, which degrades its quality. This research utilized hyperspectral imaging technology to detect and visually analyze the soluble solid content (SSC) and firmness of the fruit, aiming to improve quality and achieve optimal pricing. Four maturity stages (color turning stage, coloring stage, maturity stage, and fully ripe stage) of Cerasus Humilis fruit were examined using hyperspectral images (895–1700 nm) alongside data collection on SSC and firmness. These samples were divided into a calibration set and a validation set with a ratio of 3:1 by sample set partitioning based on the joint X-Y distances (SPXY) method. The original spectral data was processed by a spectral preprocessing method. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and nonlinear least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) detection models were established using feature wavelengths selected by the successive projections algorithm (SPA), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), uninformative variable elimination (UVE), and two combined downscaling algorithms (UVE-SPA and UVE-CARS), respectively. For SSC and firmness detection, the best models were the SNV-SPA-LS-SVM model with 18 feature wavelengths and the original spectra-UVE-CARS-LS-SVM model with eight feature wavelengths, respectively. For SSC, the correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp) was 0.8526, the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) was 0.9703, and the residual prediction deviation (RPD) was 1.9017. For firmness, Rp was 0.7879, RMSEP was 1.1205, and RPD was 2.0221. Furthermore, the optimal model was employed to retrieve the distribution of SSC and firmness within Cerasus Humilis fruit. This retrieved information facilitated visual inspection, enabling a more intuitive and comprehensive assessment of SSC and firmness at each pixel level. These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of hyperspectral imaging technology for determining SSC and firmness in Cerasus Humilis fruit. This paves the way for online monitoring of fruit quality, ultimately facilitating timely harvesting.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Smart Technology and Equipment in Horticulture)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Transplanting Time and Nitrogen–Potassium Ratio on Yield, Growth, and Quality of Cauliflower Landrace Gigante di Napoli in Southern Italy
by
Alessio Vincenzo Tallarita, Eugenio Cozzolino, Antonio Salluzzo, Agnieszka Sekara, Robert Pokluda, Otilia Cristina Murariu, Lorenzo Vecchietti, Luisa del Piano, Pasquale Lombardi, Antonio Cuciniello and Gianluca Caruso
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050518 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Research has been increasingly focusing on the preservation of the biodiversity of vegetable crops under sustainable farming management. An experiment was carried out in southern Italy on Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis, landrace Gigante di Napoli, to assess the effects of two transplanting
[...] Read more.
Research has been increasingly focusing on the preservation of the biodiversity of vegetable crops under sustainable farming management. An experiment was carried out in southern Italy on Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis, landrace Gigante di Napoli, to assess the effects of two transplanting times (9 September and 7 October), in factorial combination with five nitrogen–potassium ratios (0.6; 0.8; 1.0; 1.2; and 1.4) on plant growth, yield, and quality of cauliflower heads. A split-plot design was used for the treatment distribution in the field, with three replications. The earlier transplant and the 1.2 N:K ratio led to the highest yield, mean weight, and firmness of cauliflower heads which were not significantly affected by both transplanting time and N:K ratio in terms of colour components. The 1.2 N:K ratio led to the highest head diameter with the earlier transplant, whereas the 1.0 ratio was the most effective on this parameter in the later crop cycle. The highest nitrate, nitrogen, and potassium concentrations in the heads were recorded with the earlier transplanting time. Antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid, and polyphenol content increased with the rise of the N:K ratio. The element use efficiency was constantly negative with the N:K increase for nitrogen and was augmented until the 1.2 ratio for potassium. The results of our investigation showed that the optimal combination between transplanting time and N:K ratio is a key aspect to improve head yield and quality of the cauliflower landrace Gigante di Napoli, under the perspective of biodiversity safeguarding and valorisation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Fertilization Management Consequences to Horticultural Crops)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Research on a Flower Recognition Method Based on Masked Autoencoders
by
Yin Li, Yang Lv, Yuhang Ding, Haotian Zhu, Hua Gao and Lifei Zheng
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050517 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Accurate and efficient flower identification holds significant importance not only for the general public—who may use this information for educational, recreational, or conservation purposes—but also for professionals in fields such as botany, agriculture, and environmental science, where precise flower recognition can assist in
[...] Read more.
Accurate and efficient flower identification holds significant importance not only for the general public—who may use this information for educational, recreational, or conservation purposes—but also for professionals in fields such as botany, agriculture, and environmental science, where precise flower recognition can assist in biodiversity assessments, crop management, and ecological monitoring. In this study, we propose a novel flower recognition method utilizing a masked autoencoder, which leverages the power of self-supervised learning to enhance the model’s feature extraction capabilities, resulting in improved classification performance with an accuracy of 99.6% on the Oxford 102 Flowers dataset. Consequently, we have developed a large-scale masked autoencoder pre-training model specifically tailored for flower identification. This approach allows the model to learn robust and discriminative features from a vast amount of unlabeled flower images, thereby enhancing its generalization ability for flower classification tasks. Our method has been applied successfully to flower target detection, achieving a Mean Average Precision (mAP) of 71.3%. This result underscores the versatility and effectiveness of our approach across various flower-related tasks, including both detection and recognition. Simultaneously, we have developed a straightforward, user-friendly flower recognition and classification software application, which offers convenient and reliable references for flower education, teaching, dataset annotation, and other uses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Continuous Plant-Based and Remote Sensing for Determination of Fruit Tree Water Status
by
Alessandro Carella, Pedro Tomas Bulacio Fischer, Roberto Massenti and Riccardo Lo Bianco
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050516 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity, making the efficient management of water resources essential for sustainable crop production. The assessment of plant water status is crucial for understanding plant physiological responses to water stress and optimizing water management practices in agriculture.
[...] Read more.
Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity, making the efficient management of water resources essential for sustainable crop production. The assessment of plant water status is crucial for understanding plant physiological responses to water stress and optimizing water management practices in agriculture. Proximal and remote sensing techniques have emerged as powerful tools for the non-destructive, efficient, and spatially extensive monitoring of plant water status. This review aims to examine the recent advancements in proximal and remote sensing methodologies utilized for assessing the water status, consumption, and irrigation needs of fruit tree crops. Several proximal sensing tools have proved useful in the continuous estimation of tree water status but have strong limitations in terms of spatial variability. On the contrary, remote sensing technologies, although less precise in terms of water status estimates, can easily cover from medium to large areas with drone or satellite images. The integration of proximal and remote sensing would definitely improve plant water status assessment, resulting in higher accuracy by integrating temporal and spatial scales. This paper consists of three parts: the first part covers current plant-based proximal sensing tools, the second part covers remote sensing techniques, and the third part includes an update on the on the combined use of the two methodologies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Precision Management Systems for Sustainable Orchards and Vineyards)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Estimation of Evaporation and Drought Stress of Pistachio Plant Using UAV Multispectral Images and a Surface Energy Balance Approach
by
Hadi Zare Khormizi, Hamid Reza Ghafarian Malamiri and Carla Sofia Santos Ferreira
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050515 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Water scarcity is a critical abiotic stress factor for plants in arid and semi-arid regions, impacting crop development and production yield and quality. Monitoring water stress at finer scales (e.g., farm and plant), requires multispectral imagery with thermal capabilities at centimeter resolution. This
[...] Read more.
Water scarcity is a critical abiotic stress factor for plants in arid and semi-arid regions, impacting crop development and production yield and quality. Monitoring water stress at finer scales (e.g., farm and plant), requires multispectral imagery with thermal capabilities at centimeter resolution. This study investigates drought stress in pistachio trees in a farm located in Yazd province, Iran, by using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) images to quantify evapotranspiration and assess drought stress in individual trees. Images were captured on 10 July 2022, using a Matrix 300 UAV with a MicaSense Altum multispectral sensor. By employing the Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL), actual field evapotranspiration was accurately calculated (10 cm spatial resolution). Maps of the optimum crop coefficient (Kc) were developed from the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) based on standard evapotranspiration using the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) 56 methodology. The comparison between actual and standard evapotranspiration allowed us to identify drought-stressed trees. Results showed an average and maximum daily evaporation of 4.3 and 8.0 mm/day, respectively, in pistachio trees. The real crop coefficient (Kc) for pistachio was 0.66, contrasting with the FAO 56 standard of 1.17 due to the stress factor (Ks). A significant correlation was found between Kc and NDVI (R2 = 0.67, p < 0.01). The regression model produced a crop coefficient map, valuable to support precise irrigation management and drought prevention, considering the heterogeneity at the farm scale.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil and Water Management in Horticulture)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Potential of Biostimulants to Optimize Lettuce Cultivation in Coupled and Decoupled Aquaponics Systems: Growth Performance, Functional Characteristics and Metabolomic Analysis
by
Eirini Chandrou, Sofia Faliagka, Anastasia Mourantian, Marios Georgios Kollaros, Katerina Karamanoli, Eleftheria-Maria Pechlivani, Nikolaos Katsoulas and Efi Levizou
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050514 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Zero-discharge and low-input aquaponics systems are a promising alternative to the intensive agricultural and aquacultural production systems currently used, ensuring high environmental sustainability. However, new approaches and management practices are needed to increase their productivity to reach the yields of classic production systems.
[...] Read more.
Zero-discharge and low-input aquaponics systems are a promising alternative to the intensive agricultural and aquacultural production systems currently used, ensuring high environmental sustainability. However, new approaches and management practices are needed to increase their productivity to reach the yields of classic production systems. In this context, the present study investigated for the first time the potential of two biostimulants to improve lettuce performance in aquaponics, whether coupled or decoupled, with hydroponics serving as a control. A comprehensive evaluation was conducted to assess the plant functional (focusing on the photosynthetic process evaluation) and growth responses at the whole-plant level. In addition, the nutritional state of the leaves was determined and metabolomic analysis was performed at the cellular level, the latter also for the first time in aquaponics research. The results demonstrated the limitations that coupled aquaponics poses in relation to lettuce growth, function and metabolism, which were already obvious from the 12th day of the experiment. Indicatively, the plants grown under coupled aquaponics exhibited a notable decrease in the leaf fresh weight, potassium content and nitrogen content, with reductions of 80%, 60%, and 30%, respectively, in comparison to the hydroponics control. However, the combined physiological and metabolomic data indicate that these plants down-regulate processes and metabolism to acclimate to low nutrient levels in lettuce leaves rather than experiencing damage. The application of biostimulants did not significantly optimize the plants’ performance, though one of them appeared to be effective in improving some aspects of the photochemical efficiency. The decoupled and hydroponics systems resulted in similarly high yields and efficiency in terms of plant function, without any marked contribution from the biostimulants. We conclude that the decoupled aquaponics system has been successful in achieving yields comparable to those of hydroponics, with lower chemical inputs. Future studies should focus on examining other biostimulants in this system to further improve its performance while maintaining its environmental benefits within a circular economy framework.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Protected Culture)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Promising and Failed Breeding Techniques for Overcoming Sterility and Increasing Seed Set in Bananas (Musa spp.)
by
Allan Waniale, Settumba B. Mukasa, Arthur K. Tugume, Alex Barekye and Robooni Tumuhimbise
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050513 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Most banana improvement programs are restricted to using a sub-set of edible landraces for sexual hybridization as the majority are female sterile. This results from an array of factors that work in tandem and lead to sterility. Use of pollination germination media (PGM)
[...] Read more.
Most banana improvement programs are restricted to using a sub-set of edible landraces for sexual hybridization as the majority are female sterile. This results from an array of factors that work in tandem and lead to sterility. Use of pollination germination media (PGM) during pollination significantly increases seed set, but it is a very small fraction compared to the potential seed set. This research therefore explored early pollination (a day before anthesis), evening pollination, saline treatment, plant growth regulators (PGRs) treatment, and ovule culture as potential techniques for overcoming sterility in bananas. Early and evening pollinations did not increase seed set because of immature flowers and a mismatch of male and female flower opening, respectively (t-prob. = 0.735 and 0.884). Immersion of bunches in a saline solution before pollination and ovule culture also did not overcome pollination barriers. Auxin antagonists (TIBA and salicylic acid) increased seed set, though their respective increases were not statistically significant (t-prob. = 0.123 and 0.164, respectively). The use of auxin antagonists shows great potential for overcoming pollination barriers in bananas. However, application rates and time of application have to be optimized and used holistically with other promising techniques, such as use of PGM.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developments in the Genetics and Breeding of Banana Species)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Regulatory Mechanisms of Pollen Development: Transcriptomic and Bioinformatic Insights into the Role of β-1,3 Glucanase Gene (LbGlu1) in Lycium barbarum
by
Xin Zhang, Zhanlin Bei, Jinglong Li, Haijun Ma, Cuiping Wang, Wendi Xu, Yufeng Ren, Jun Zhou and Xingfu Yan
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050512 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Pollen fertility is a critical factor in seed development and crop breeding. Extensive studies have explored the mechanisms of pollen fertility in model plants and economic crops. However, the mechanisms of pollen abortion in medicinal and edible plants, including Lycium barbarum, remain
[...] Read more.
Pollen fertility is a critical factor in seed development and crop breeding. Extensive studies have explored the mechanisms of pollen fertility in model plants and economic crops. However, the mechanisms of pollen abortion in medicinal and edible plants, including Lycium barbarum, remain elusive. This study utilized transcriptome analysis to identify key genes and regulatory networks implicated in pollen fertility in L. barbarum. The results demonstrated differential expression of 12,185 genes (DEGs) between the sterile and fertile lines, encompassing 489 genes that exhibited variation across the five stages of pollen development. Additionally, GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that the DEGs were predominantly associated with energy metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and notably, hydrolase activity. Co-expression network analysis unveiled two modules intimately associated with fertility, each comprising 908 and 756 hub genes, incorporating β-1,3-glucanase genes (Glu) and co-expressed transcription factors (TFs). Phylogenetic analysis implied that LbGlu1 was a potential candidate gene implicated in regulating pollen abortion in L. barbarum. This work advances a novel understanding of pollen abortion in L. barbarum and offers theoretical support for the utilization of sterility genes to enhance crop improvement.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Crops Genetics and Genomics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Synergetic Effect of Light Spectra and Selenium Supplementation on Eruca sativa Mill. Growth and Physiological and Metabolic Responses
by
Cátia Brito, Sónia Andrade, Helena Ferreira, Carlos Matos, Sandra Martins and José Moutinho-Pereira
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050511 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Eco-friendly lighting systems, like LED lights, can reduce energy consumption in greenhouse operations, have a long lifespan, and enable precise control over plant growth through spectrum selection. On the other hand, Selenium (Se) is a micronutrient with a beneficial role in plant metabolism
[...] Read more.
Eco-friendly lighting systems, like LED lights, can reduce energy consumption in greenhouse operations, have a long lifespan, and enable precise control over plant growth through spectrum selection. On the other hand, Selenium (Se) is a micronutrient with a beneficial role in plant metabolism and an essential element for human health. In this study, we aim to unravel the effects of LED lighting combined with Se supplementation on the physiological behavior, yield, and quality of arugula (Eruca sativa). Arugula plants were cultivated under controlled conditions using two distinct LED lights: full white spectrum (W) and a mix of 80%/20% of red/blue light (R:B). These plants were then supplemented with three levels of Se: 0 mg Se kg−1 soil [0], 0.3 mg Se kg−1 soil [0.3], and 0.6 mg Se kg−1 soil [0.6]. The results showed that stomatal conductance remained unaffected by the light script. However, the plants exposed to R:B displayed more pronounced signs of photodamage and reduced net photosynthetic rate. Supplementation with Se plays a significant role in mitigating light-induced stress and in improving the antioxidant defense system; this was especially notable in R:B plants. Finally, R:B light decreased the accumulation of aboveground biomass, while no significant impact of Se was noticed on this outcome. Se accumulation exhibited a direct and proportional relationship with the concentration of Se applied. The integration of LED technology and Se supplementation not only enhances crop nutritional value but also aligns with the adoption of more sustainable agricultural practices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Physiological Studies and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveal the Mechanism of Saline-Alkali Stress Resistance of Malus sieversii f. niedzwetzkyan
by
Lepu Jiang, Yan Yang, Zhengli Zhou and Xuesen Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050510 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Malus sieversii f. niedzwetzkyan, a wild species capable of growing on saline-alkali soil in Xinjiang, is the most promising horticultural crop for improving the saline-alkali wasteland. However, the tolerance of M. niedzwetzkyan to saline-alkali stress and the underlying molecular mechanisms remains largely
[...] Read more.
Malus sieversii f. niedzwetzkyan, a wild species capable of growing on saline-alkali soil in Xinjiang, is the most promising horticultural crop for improving the saline-alkali wasteland. However, the tolerance of M. niedzwetzkyan to saline-alkali stress and the underlying molecular mechanisms remains largely unknown. Here, we conducted a hydroponic experiment in which M. niedzwetzkyana and M. domestica “Royal Gala” seedlings were subjected to 150 mM saline-alkali stress. Physiological data showed that M. niedzwetzkyana had a strong ROS scavenging ability and ion transport ability, and its saline-alkali resistance was higher than that of M. “Royal Gala”. Saline-alkali stress also promoted the synthesis of anthocyanins in M. niedzwetzkyana. Transcriptome analysis was conducted on the leaves and roots of M. niedzwetzkyana at different time points under saline-alkali stress (0 h, 6 h, and 12 h). Transcriptome analysis revealed that saline stress down-regulated most genes involved in the anthocyanin flavonoid synthesis pathway. Transcription levels of genes involved in antioxidant enzyme activity and ion transport were altered. We identified hub genes related to superoxide dismutase as well as Na+ and K+ transport using weighted gene co-expression network analysis. This study elucidated, for the first time at the molecular level, the saline-alkali tolerance of M. niedzwetzkyana, including the complex changes in pathways that regulate reactive oxygen species homeostasis, ion uptake, and anthocyanoside synthesis under saline-alkali stress conditions. This research provides an important genetic resource for identifying genes involved in responses to saline-alkali stress.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Abiotic Stress Response Mechanism of Horticultural Plants)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Novel R2R3-MYB Transcription Factor LhMYB1 Promotes Anthocyanin Accumulation in Lilium concolor var. pulchellum
by
Shengnan Tian, Muhammad Moaaz Ali, Mingli Ke, Yuxian Lu, Yiping Zheng, Xuanmei Cai, Shaozhong Fang, Jian Wu, Zhimin Lin and Faxing Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050509 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Lilium concolor var. pulchellum has a brilliant flower colour, high germination rate, and resistance to cold, drought, and salinity and is an excellent source of lily germplasm. Anthocyanins are important flavonoids commonly found in plants and can make the flowers and fruits of
[...] Read more.
Lilium concolor var. pulchellum has a brilliant flower colour, high germination rate, and resistance to cold, drought, and salinity and is an excellent source of lily germplasm. Anthocyanins are important flavonoids commonly found in plants and can make the flowers and fruits of plants more colourful. We first found that 0.2 mg/L 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) specifically induced the accumulation of anthocyanins, which were mainly cyanidins, in callus tissue culture of Lilium. Transcriptomic results indicated that anthocyanin accumulation was mainly involved in the flavonoid pathway, and an LhMYB1 transcription factor encoding 267 amino acids positively associated with anthocyanin accumulation was cloned from the MYB family. Subcellular localisation in tobacco showed that the gene was located in the nucleus of epidermal cells. Virus-induced gene silencing showed that silencing of the LhMYB1 gene on lily petals resulted in a purple to white colour change and a decrease in anthocyanin deposition, mainly in the upper and lower epidermis of the petals. Therefore, the results of this study will provide some ideas for the molecular breeding of lily flower colour.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Molecular Biology of Horticultural Plants)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Molecular Identification of Genetic Diversity and Population Structure in Moroccan Male Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) Using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat, Direct Amplification of Minisatellite DNA, and Simple Sequence Repeat Markers
by
Maha Ibrahimi, Najiba Brhadda, Rabea Ziri, Mohamed Fokar, Ilham Amghar, Fatima Gaboun, Aicha Habach, Reda Meziani, Jamal Elfadile, Rabha Abdelwahd and Ghizlane Diria
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050508 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding genetic diversity and population structure plays a vital role in the efficient use of available material in plant-breeding programs and in germplasm conservation strategies. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the genetic variations and population structure of male date palms
[...] Read more.
Understanding genetic diversity and population structure plays a vital role in the efficient use of available material in plant-breeding programs and in germplasm conservation strategies. In the present study, we aim to evaluate the genetic variations and population structure of male date palms from Morocco. The genetic diversity of 100 date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) genotypes was investigated using the performance of three types of molecular markers: inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs), direct amplification of minisatellite DNA (DAMD), and simple sequence repeats (SSRs). On the basis of their polymorphic information content (PIC) (ISSRs = 0.38; DAMD = 0.4; SSRs = 0.33), effective multiplex ratio (EMR) (ISSRs = 27.34; DAMD = 52.31; SSRs = 22.20), Resolving power Rp (ISSR = 13.81; DAMD = 28.73; SSR = 14.6), and marker index (MI) (ISSRs = 9.22; DAMD = 20.23; SSRs = 7.54) values, all markers used in our study are considered informative markers. Among them, DAMD markers demonstrated slightly higher informativeness compared to ISSR and SSR markers. A total of 216, 438, and 248 bands were, respectively, detected using ISSRs, DAMD, and SSRs, with 95%, 98% and 94% of polymorphism, respectively. The AMOVA results revealed considerable diversity within date palms. The PCOa results showed that males of Tinghir and Errachidia were regrouped into the same cluster, while males of Goulmima were separated into another group. A cluster and structure analysis separated the studied genotypes into three groups. One group comprises genotypes of males from Zagora with some female varieties scattered in this group. The second group includes male genotypes from Goulmima along with accessions of female and male varieties. The third group contains males of Errachidia, Tata and Tinghir populations. The cluster and structure analysis separated the studied genotypes according to their origin.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Physiological, Genetic and Phytochemical Characteristics of Horticulture Crops)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Mechanisms Underlying Petal Pigmentation Differences in Two Cultivars of Physalis philadelphica Based on HPLC and NGS
by
Hongyu Qiao, Wennan Zhao, Song Tian, Da Wang, Haiyan Wu, Chenyu Wang, Jiaming Zhu, Nan Li, Xu Zhu, Shujing Mu, Jingying Zhang and Hongxia He
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050507 - 14 May 2024
Abstract
Physalis philadelphica, a member of the Solanaceae family, commonly known as Physalis, is a one-year-old herbaceous plant with both medicinal and edible properties, as well as ornamental value. At present, only limited research is available on the flower color of P. philadelphica.
[...] Read more.
Physalis philadelphica, a member of the Solanaceae family, commonly known as Physalis, is a one-year-old herbaceous plant with both medicinal and edible properties, as well as ornamental value. At present, only limited research is available on the flower color of P. philadelphica. This study aimed to elucidate the metabolic characteristics underlying the flower color of P. philadelphica and to identify key genes associated with flower color metabolism. We selected two representative varieties of P. philadelphica with significant differences in flower color, namely, “Tieba” (yellow flower) and “Qingjin” (yellow-purple flower), as the experimental materials. The analysis of related pigment components and the determination of relative content by high-performance liquid chromatography were conducted to investigate the flower color-related metabolic pathways of P. philadelphica. Through next-generation sequencing, these pathways were further investigated for the characteristics and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with flower color formation. The results of the research show that: Anthocyanin is the main component of petal coloring of P. philadelphica var. Qingjin, while malvidin pigment, pelargonidin, delphinidin, and cyanidin are the main components of flower color intensity. Carotenoids are the main components of the petal coloring of P. philadelphica var. Tieba and β-carotene is the main component of flower color intensity. Comparing different developmental stages of these two kinds of Physalis pubescens, we identified two key transcription factors (TFs) (eBP and STAT) that were involved in the inhibition of anthocyanin synthesis and regulate the inhibition of pf05G124640 (dihydroflavonol 4-reductase) and pf09G224140 (anthocyanin synthase) in anthocyanin synthesis. One heat shock transcription factor was found to regulate the flavonoid and flavonol synthesis pathway of pf01G020090 (anthocyanin 3-O-glucosyltransferase); two key TFs (NAC and G2-Like), pf10G255070 (isoricin dehydrogenase) and pf09G237080 (abscisic acid 8′-hydroxylase), played important roles in carotene biosynthesis. This study provides new insights for further exploration of the genetic diversity of petal coloring in P. philadelphica and establishes a foundation for subsequent molecular breeding efforts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Horticulturae Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Society Collaborations
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Agronomy, Beverages, Fermentation, Horticulturae, Plants
Grapevine Facing Climate Change: From Land, through Plants to Grapes and Wine
Topic Editors: Othmane Merah, Ana Fernandes De Oliveira, Daniela Satta, Mario Cunha, Jesus Yuste, Jalloul BouajilaDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Agriculture, Agronomy, Forests, Gastronomy, Grasses, Horticulturae, Sustainability
Mediterranean Biodiversity
Topic Editors: Luigi De Bellis, Genuario Belmonte, Massimiliano Renna, Elena Ciani, Monica Marilena Miazzi, Andrea PieroniDeadline: 15 September 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Horticulturae, IJPB, Life, Plants
Effects of Climate Change on Viticulture (Grape)
Topic Editors: Arif Atak, Andreia Figueiredo, Inmaculada Pascual, Fermin MoralesDeadline: 31 December 2024
Topic in
Agronomy, Crops, Forests, Horticulturae, Plants
Plants Nutrients, 2nd Volume
Topic Editors: Georgia Ntatsi, Maurizio BadianiDeadline: 31 January 2025
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Horticulturae
Fruits Quality and Sensory Analysis
Guest Editors: Paola Sánchez-Bravo, Luis Noguera-ArtiagaDeadline: 20 May 2024
Special Issue in
Horticulturae
Gene Expressions in Response to Diseases, Abiotic Stresses and Pest Damage of Horticultural Products
Guest Editors: Giuliana Maddalena, Annamaria Mincuzzi, Francesca Garganese, Antonio IppolitoDeadline: 31 May 2024
Special Issue in
Horticulturae
Factors Affecting the Quality and Shelf Life of Horticultural Crops
Guest Editor: Mohammad Zahirul IslamDeadline: 20 June 2024
Special Issue in
Horticulturae
Genetics and Molecular Breeding of Fruit Tree Species
Guest Editors: Stefano La Malfa, Stefania BenniciDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Horticulturae
Postharvest Handling of Horticultural Crops
Collection Editors: Maria Dulce Carlos Antunes, Custódia Maria Luís Gago, Adriana Guerreiro
Topical Collection in
Horticulturae
New Challenges in Productivity of Berry Fruits
Collection Editors: Christopher M. Menzel, Anita Sønsteby
Topical Collection in
Horticulturae
New Advances in Fruit Quality: Pre-harvest Techniques and Postharvest Management
Collection Editors: Alessio Allegra, Giuseppe Sortino
Topical Collection in
Horticulturae
Recent Advances in Hydroponic and Aquaponic Research
Collection Editor: Michael Timmons