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
Phytochemistry and Allelopathic Effects of Tanacetum vulgare L. (Tansy) Extracts on Lepidium sativum L. (Garden Pepper Cress) and Lactuca sativa L. (Lettuce)
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060538 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Tanacetum vulgare is a perennial plant growing wild along roadsides, pastures, and agricultural fields. Its prevalence is due to several factors: good climatic adaptability, high self-seeding potential, phenotypic plasticity, multiplying via underground rhizomes and its allelochemicals, which influence the seed germination, root development
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Tanacetum vulgare is a perennial plant growing wild along roadsides, pastures, and agricultural fields. Its prevalence is due to several factors: good climatic adaptability, high self-seeding potential, phenotypic plasticity, multiplying via underground rhizomes and its allelochemicals, which influence the seed germination, root development and the overall vegetation of the surrounding plants. The phytochemistry of tansy extracts and their allelopathic activity on the seed germination and growth of garden pepper cress (Lepidium sativum L.) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) were investigated. The major volatile compounds, 1,8-cineole, camphor and borneol were determined in tansy flower extracts. The leaf extracts contained appreciable amounts of 1,8-cineole and borneol. Feruloylquinic, (di)ferulic and dehydrocaffeoyl-5-caffeoylquinic acids, acacetin, ludovicin С and tanacetin were determined both in leaf and inflorescence extracts. Root extracts contained minor quantities of some terpenoids and polyphenols. Extracts of T. vulgare’s aerial parts showed strong allelopathic effects on model plants. The flower and leaf water extracts inhibited lettuce and pepper cress seed germination and growth the most. According to the fractions, the acidic solution had the strongest effect, followed by neutral and alkaline solutions. At the highest relative concentrations of 0.5 and 1.0 tansy leaf acidic fraction, lettuce seed germination and growth decreased by 89.93% (from 35.07 ± 4.79 to 3.53 ± 2.10 mm) and by 98.46% (from 35.07 ± 4.79 to 0.57 ± 0.98 mm) compared to the control, respectively. Tansy root extracts showed weak effects. Our results demonstrated that the allelopathic inhibitory potential of tansy extracts was higher on garden pepper cress than on lettuce. The presence of allelochemicals in T. vulgare may have a significant impact on plant communities and ecosystems.
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Open AccessArticle
In Vitro Shoot Regeneration and Callogenesis of Sechium compositum (Donn. Sm.) C. Jeffrey for Plant Conservation and Secondary Metabolites Product
by
Riviello-Flores María de la Luz, Castillo-Martínez Carlos Román, Cadena-Iñiguez Jorge, Ruiz-Posadas Lucero del Mar, Soto-Hernández Ramón Marcos, Arévalo-Galarza Ma. de Lourdes and Castillo-Juárez Israel
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060537 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
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Sechium compositum (Cucurbitaceae) is a wild species that is distributed in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, and the border with Guatemala. This species has an intangible biochemical value resulting from the pharmacological relevance of its secondary metabolites. However, as a consequence of the
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Sechium compositum (Cucurbitaceae) is a wild species that is distributed in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, and the border with Guatemala. This species has an intangible biochemical value resulting from the pharmacological relevance of its secondary metabolites. However, as a consequence of the lack of knowledge about its importance, it is being displaced from its habitat at an accelerated rate, incurring the risk of genetic loss. Therefore, an in vitro culture protocol with two experimental phases was evaluated to propagate, conserve, and regenerate this species. The first phases considered the shoot propagation, adding seven concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 mg mL−1) of 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) and thidiazuron (TDZ) and evaluating the number of buds and shoots and the shoot height. The best multiplication response was recorded with 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 1.0 mg L−1 of BA and 0.1 mg L−1 of TDZ, as well as the MS base culture medium. The validation of the results of the first phase (0.1 mg L−1 of BA) was compared with the MS in an independent experiment against the control (n = 50 repetitions), obtaining a height of 52 mm, 1.36 shoots, and 9.22 buds, suggesting that this concentration is adequate for the purpose, surpassing the MS control (MS culture medium alone). Of the total volume of roots obtained with packed bud structure in the previous experimental sample, it was reduced to 14% (n = 50). The second phase consisted of inducing callus formation from stem and leaf explants through the addition of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg L−1 of TDZ and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) to the medium. Callus induction in S. compositum was better when using the stem in a medium with 2.0 mg L−1 of 2,4-D with a value of 97.8% around the explant. The addition of 500 mg L−1 of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is also suggested to reduce oxidation. This protocol represents a significant advance in the conservation, multiplication, and callus formation of S. compositum and contributes to its rescue and revaluation in the face of the danger of extinction.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Potential of Nettle Infusion to Protect Common Bean from Halo Blight Disease
by
Carlota Cerezo, Penélope García-Angulo, Asier Largo-Gosens and María Luz Centeno
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060536 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The use of plant-based preparations to replace chemical pesticides is a challenge for sustainable agriculture. Preparations from nettle (Urtica dioica L.) are good candidates, as the treatment of common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with aqueous suspensions of nettle reduced symptoms
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The use of plant-based preparations to replace chemical pesticides is a challenge for sustainable agriculture. Preparations from nettle (Urtica dioica L.) are good candidates, as the treatment of common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with aqueous suspensions of nettle reduced symptoms of halo blight disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola (Pph). The aim of the present work was to test if nettle infusions (Ui) have similar effects and find out what activity is behind this: antimicrobial, promotion of the natural defenses of plants, and/or antioxidant. To achieve this, Pph growth was tested in the presence of infusions of nettle leaves collected in two different years (Ui18 and Ui22), and we found that it was only weakly inhibited at high concentrations of Ui18. Interestingly, Ui22 promoted bacteria growth at all concentrations. Second, we estimated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to flagellin22 (flg22) in common bean leaf discs, since recognition of this bacterial peptide usually leads to ROS accumulation in tissues as a plant immune response. However, leaf discs that were preincubated in Ui showed no accumulation of ROS after flg22 treatment, suggesting that Ui can neutralize ROS production. Finally, in a Pph inoculation experiment of common bean plants grown in vitro, we observed that pretreatment of plants with Ui drastically reduced foliar oxidative damage and disease symptoms 6 h after inoculation. This effect was more noticeable for Ui22, which was related to the higher antioxidant activity found in this extract in comparison with Ui18. These results suggest that the protective properties of Ui are mainly due to the content of antioxidant bioactive compounds.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Diagnosis, Management, and Epidemiology of Plant Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of Flavonoid 3′-Hydroxylase Genes from Red Chinese Sand Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) and Their Regulation of Anthocyanin Accumulation in Fruit Peel
by
Yi Zhou, Ruiyan Tao, Junbei Ni, Minjie Qian and Yuanwen Teng
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060535 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The red Chinese sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) is native to China and exhibits a unique fruit coloration pattern. Flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) catalyzes the hydroxylation of flavonoids, which subsequently determines the components of anthocyanins and the color of plant organs. Two genes
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The red Chinese sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) is native to China and exhibits a unique fruit coloration pattern. Flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) catalyzes the hydroxylation of flavonoids, which subsequently determines the components of anthocyanins and the color of plant organs. Two genes encoding flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H), PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII, have been identified in red Chinese sand pears. The coding regions for PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII were 1542 and 1536 bp in length, respectively. PpF3′HI shared 95% of its amino acid sequence identity with PpF3′HII, and a highly conserved P450 superfamily domain was found both in PpF3′HI and in PpF3′HII. Phylogenetic analysis showed that PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII clustered with MdF3′HI and MdF3′HII, respectively. PpF3′H genes were highly expressed in anthocyanin-enriched tissues such as young leaves, and transcription of PpF3′H genes corresponded to anthocyanin biosynthesis during the developmental stages, bagging treatment, and postharvest UV-B/visible irradiation treatment. A Y1H assay showed that PpMYB10 and PpHY5 could interact with the −419 bp to 0 bp and −746 bp to −396 bp fragments of the PpF3′HI promoter region, respectively. Understanding the mechanism of flavonoid hydroxylation patterns will, in turn, promote the development of new technologies for modifying flavonoid and anthocyanin composition in fruits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
Open AccessArticle
Identification and Functional Analysis of the Flower Development-Related TCP Genes in Erycina pusilla
by
Yu-Huan Tang, Ying-Yin Zhong and Xia Huang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060534 (registering DOI) - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Orchid flowers have evolved in concert with pollinators to form highly specialized structures resulting in zygomorphy. In dicotyledons, it is widely accepted that CYC-like genes are involved in the dorsoventral polarity establishment of flowers, which determines the development of zygomorphic flowers. However,
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Orchid flowers have evolved in concert with pollinators to form highly specialized structures resulting in zygomorphy. In dicotyledons, it is widely accepted that CYC-like genes are involved in the dorsoventral polarity establishment of flowers, which determines the development of zygomorphic flowers. However, the function of TCP transcription factors involved in orchid floral development is rarely known. Here, we found 15 unigenes with TCP domain (EpTCPs) from the previously reported Erycina pusilla unigene database. The expression patterns of EpTCPs in various tissues and different floral organs were successively detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The results revealed that the CYC-like gene (EpTCP25) and CIN-like genes (EpTCP11 and EpTCP26) were highly expressed in inflorescences but lowly expressed in leaves and roots. What is more, these three genes were expressed relatively high in the dorsal labellum, and EpTCP26 showed differential expression along the dorsoventral polarity of tepals, which was high in the dorsal and low in the ventral. Ectopic expression of EpTCP25 in Arabidopsis repressed primary root growth and delayed flowering. EpTCP26 overexpression in Arabidopsis promoted primary root growth and leaf growth. In contrast, EpTCP11 overexpression repressed primary root growth and changed the radially symmetric flower to a bilaterally symmetric flower by inhibiting the elongation of one or two adjacent petals. In addition, the homeotic transition of floral organs is generated when these genes are ectopically expressed in Arabidopsis, suggesting their roles in floral morphogenesis. Altogether, our results indicate that CIN-like genes would be associated with the unique flower pattern development of Erycina pusilla.
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(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
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Open AccessReview
Advances in Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) In Vitro Culture: A Review
by
Suzanna Correia, Manuela Matos and Fernanda Leal
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060533 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The demand for Vaccinium fruits has skyrocketed due to their nutritional and medicinal properties, notably their high content of phenolic compounds and excellent sensory evaluation. The use of Vaccinium plants and its components as dietary supplements and health ingredients has been on the
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The demand for Vaccinium fruits has skyrocketed due to their nutritional and medicinal properties, notably their high content of phenolic compounds and excellent sensory evaluation. The use of Vaccinium plants and its components as dietary supplements and health ingredients has been on the rise across the world. The attractive fruits contain a high content of anthocyanins and antioxidant compounds. In some popular and valuable cultivars, the conventional propagation methods, exploiting hard or soft wood cuttings, are inefficient. The demand for nursery plants can be fulfilled by micropropagation. This review aims to explore advances in the in vitro culture of Vaccinium plants, focusing on effective disinfection, optimized culture media, and the role of growth regulators in plant development and multiplication. By providing a controlled environment, micropropagation allows the large-scale production of these plants in a short time, ensuring availability throughout the year. Additionally, this technique offers the advantage of studying the effects of abiotic stresses on plants, as well as facilitating research on the production of relevant metabolites. This review seeks to provide an updated overview of the most promising methods and techniques for micropropagation of Vaccinium, thereby contributing to the ongoing development of the blueberry production industry and derivative products.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biotechnology: Applications in In Vitro Plant Conservation and Micropropagation)
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Open AccessEditorial
Ornamental Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology
by
Tuo Zeng and Caiyun Wang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060532 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Ornamental plants not only beautify our environment, thanks to their vivid colors and diverse forms, but also play a vital role in agriculture, industry, and medicine, reflecting significant scientific and economic value [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Molecular Biology Research on Ornamental Flower)
Open AccessReview
Underutilized Fruit Crops at a Crossroads: The Case of Annona cherimola—From Pre-Columbian to Present Times
by
Nerea Larranaga, Jorge A. Agustín, Federico Albertazzi, Gustavo Fontecha, Wilson Vásquez-Castillo, Ricardo Cautín, Edward Quiroz, Carla Ragonezi and Jose I. Hormaza
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060531 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Fruits of the cherimoya tree (Annona cherimola Mill.) were consumed by native cultures in Central America, from where the crop was disseminated to South America in pre-Columbian times. Despite its historical significance and cultivation in subtropical regions worldwide, cherimoya remains an underutilized
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Fruits of the cherimoya tree (Annona cherimola Mill.) were consumed by native cultures in Central America, from where the crop was disseminated to South America in pre-Columbian times. Despite its historical significance and cultivation in subtropical regions worldwide, cherimoya remains an underutilized crop, particularly in its area of origin where the conservation of its genetic diversity is under threat. In this study, we provide a comprehensive overview of the research performed on this fruit tree over the past two decades, shedding light on its current status in terms of commercial production and germplasm conservation efforts in the main cherimoya producing countries in the Americas and Europe.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Insights into Medieval Grape Cultivation in Al-Andalus: Morphometric, Domestication, and Multivariate Analysis of Vitis vinifera Seed Types
by
Javier Valera, Diego Rivera, Gonzalo Matilla-Séiquer, Diego José Rivera-Obón, Carlos-Alvar Ocete, Rafael Ocete, Julio Navarro, Pedro Jiménez, Rafael González, Juan Antonio Ramírez, José María Moreno, José Javier Martínez and Concepción Obón
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050530 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding the origins and evolution of modern grapevine varieties in the Iberian Peninsula and western Europe necessitates an examination of the proportions of Vitis vinifera cultivars, their relationships with wild grapevine populations, and the utilization of seedless cultivars in al-Andalus. Employing morphometric studies,
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Understanding the origins and evolution of modern grapevine varieties in the Iberian Peninsula and western Europe necessitates an examination of the proportions of Vitis vinifera cultivars, their relationships with wild grapevine populations, and the utilization of seedless cultivars in al-Andalus. Employing morphometric studies, domestication indices, multivariate analysis, and Bayesian hypothesis testing, this study investigates several distinct seed types identified in materials from Roman and medieval deposits. These seeds exhibit a spectrum from highly domesticated to purely wild. Our findings reveal the predominance of Proles Occidentalis Negrul, and the presence of feral-like grapevines associated with Proles Euphratica. Additionally, we observe the continuous presence of wild grapevines related to Vitis sylvestris CC Gmelin throughout the studied period. Seeds exhibiting intermediate characteristics are documented, alongside the identification of “stenosperms”, suggesting anomalies in seed formation. Notably, the presence of Vitis vinifera raisins “stenospermocarpics” of the sultana type is suggested, potentially elucidating the absence of table grapes and raisins of the Proles Orientalis Negrul in the archaeological record, despite frequent mentions by medieval agronomy writers from al-Andalus.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)
Open AccessArticle
Genetic Mapping for Leaf Shape and Leaf Size in Non-Heading Chinese Cabbage by a RIL Population
by
Tianzi Zhao, Aimei Bai, Xinya Wang, Feixue Zhang, Miaomiao Yang, Yuhui Wang, Tongkun Liu, Xilin Hou and Ying Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050529 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Leaves are the predominant photosynthetic and edible organs in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis, NHCC), contributing significantly to yield, appearance, and desirability to consumers. However, the genetic basis of leaf shape and size in non-heading Chinese cabbage remains unclear.
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Leaves are the predominant photosynthetic and edible organs in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis, NHCC), contributing significantly to yield, appearance, and desirability to consumers. However, the genetic basis of leaf shape and size in non-heading Chinese cabbage remains unclear. In this study, we developed a RIL population using ‘Maertou’, with slender leaves and narrow petioles, and ‘Suzhouqing’, with oval leaves and wide petioles, to construct a genetic linkage map and detect QTLs. To obtain stable and reliable QTLs, the 11 leaf-related traits, including the leaf length, leaf width, and fresh weight of the lamina and petiole and the thickness of petiole was observed on two locations—while the leaf shape, petiole shape, index of lamina/petiole length, and index of petiole fresh weight were calculated based on 7 leaf-related traits. QTL mapping illustrated that a total of 27 QTLs for leaf-related traits were preliminarily detected. The candidate genes were annotated and several genes involved in leaf development and leaf shape appeared in the overlapping regions of multiple loci, such as KRP2, GRF4, ARGOS, and SAUR9. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of the genetic mechanisms and development of effective molecular markers for leaf shape and size in NHCC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Menthol Treatment on the Sprouting and Quality of Potato Tuber
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Ye Xu, Yang Qin, Qianqian Hou, Defu Niu and Qingmin Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050528 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
This study used Dutch potatoes at the end of dormancy as a material to explore the impact of menthol (0.2 and 0.5 g/kg based on potato mass) treatment on sprouting inhibition and potato quality. The findings revealed that a menthol concentration of 0.5
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This study used Dutch potatoes at the end of dormancy as a material to explore the impact of menthol (0.2 and 0.5 g/kg based on potato mass) treatment on sprouting inhibition and potato quality. The findings revealed that a menthol concentration of 0.5 g/kg effectively inhibited potato tuber sprouting and significantly reduced glucoside alkaloid production. After a storage period of 15 days, the sprouting percentage and glucoside alkaloid content of potatoes treated with 0.5 g/kg menthol were observed to be significantly lower at 4.17% and 68.63 mg/kg, respectively, compared to the control group which exhibited values of 100% and 282.01 mg/kg, respectively (p < 0.05). Throughout the storage period, 0.5 g/kg of menthol promoted respiration, reduced malondialdehyde production in potatoes, inhibited polyphenol oxidase activity, and slowed down tissue browning. Additionally, it mitigated the decline in starch and soluble protein content, inhibiting the accumulation of reducing sugars.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Physiology and Quality Maintaining of Horticultural Plants)
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
Recent Advances in Understanding and Controlling Fusarium Diseases of Alliums
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Suman Sharma, Subhankar Mandal and Christopher S. Cramer
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 527; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050527 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Allium species are known for their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. Fusarium basal rot is one of the most damaging soilborne fungal diseases of Allium species and poses a significant threat to yield, quality, and storage life worldwide. Various species of Fusarium have
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Allium species are known for their culinary, medicinal, and ornamental purposes. Fusarium basal rot is one of the most damaging soilborne fungal diseases of Allium species and poses a significant threat to yield, quality, and storage life worldwide. Various species of Fusarium have been identified as causal agents for Fusarium basal rot, depending on the Allium species involved. Diverse disease management practices have been implemented to mitigate the impact of Fusarium basal rot. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent progress in detecting different species of Fusarium involved in Fusarium basal rot and strategies to control them in affected Allium species involving chemical, biological, and cultural methods. It covers the latest advancements in host plant resistance research from traditional breeding to modern molecular techniques and studying secondary metabolites involved in defense mechanisms against Fusarium basal rot.
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(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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Open AccessArticle
Overexpression of CBL-Interacting Protein Kinases 23 Improves Tolerance to Low-Nitrogen Stress in Potato Plants
by
Feiyun Huang, Yifei Lu, Zi Li, Lang Zhang, Minqiu Xie, Bi Ren, Liming Lu, Liqin Li and Cuiqin Yang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 526; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050526 - 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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Physiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology)
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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 - 19 May 2024
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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
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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.
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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 - 18 May 2024
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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
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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.
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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 - 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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Authenticity in Organic Horticultural Production: Recent Studies and Applications)
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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.)
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in the Production of Plant Bioactive Compounds by Horticultural Crops through Agronomical and Biotechnological Approaches)
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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
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Section Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops)
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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.
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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.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Smart Technology and Equipment in Horticulture)
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