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
Physiological, Biochemical, and Molecular Response in Siete Caldos Chili Pepper Plants (Capsicum frutescens) Exposed to Water Deficit
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060558 (registering DOI) - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Drought, exacerbated by climate change, represents a growing challenge for agriculture, significantly impacting on crops such as chili peppers (Capsicum), essential in the global diet. This work evaluated the response to water stress by suspending irrigation in Siete Caldos chili pepper
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Drought, exacerbated by climate change, represents a growing challenge for agriculture, significantly impacting on crops such as chili peppers (Capsicum), essential in the global diet. This work evaluated the response to water stress by suspending irrigation in Siete Caldos chili pepper plants (Capsicum frutescens). Control plants were watered every 48 h, while stress was induced in the test plants by withholding irrigation for 14 days, followed by an evaluation of recovery through rehydration on day 15. Growth parameters such as the fresh weight of the aerial part, root length, and number of flower buds showed significant differences between the two groups from the eighth day onwards. However, physiologically and biochemically stress-induced decreased relative water content, membrane stability, and chlorophyll content, coupled with increased electrolyte leakage, proline content, and antioxidant activity (catalases and peroxidases), were observed starting on the third day. These effects were more severe on day 14. At the molecular level, the expression of stress response genes (AP2, LOX2, CAT, CuSOD, MnSOD, and P5CS) was quantified at days 3, 14, and 15, revealing differences in transcript levels between the treatments. Finally, rehydration in the stressed plants resulted in the recovery of the evaluated parameters and a survival rate of 100%. Therefore, chili pepper has tolerance mechanisms that allow it to withstand a period of 14 days without irrigation, without reaching its permanent wilting point, and it can recover if conditions improve. This study underscores the complexity of plant responses and tolerance mechanisms to drought, providing insights into the behavior of semi-domesticated species.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Abiotic Stress Response Mechanism of Horticultural Plants)
Open AccessArticle
Odour Fingerprints of Black (Tuber mesentericum) and Bianchetto (Tuber borchii) Truffles from Different Areas of the Campania Region
by
Andrea Balivo, Enrica De Falco, Luca Branca, Michele Caputo, Raffaele Sacchi and Alessandro Genovese
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 557; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060557 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, E-nose and SPME-GC/MS were applied to compare the odour patterns and volatile compounds of two truffle species harvested in different areas of Campania (Southern Italy). In total, 107 Tuber mesentericum (black truffle) and 60 Tuber borchii (bianchetto truffle) truffles were
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In this study, E-nose and SPME-GC/MS were applied to compare the odour patterns and volatile compounds of two truffle species harvested in different areas of Campania (Southern Italy). In total, 107 Tuber mesentericum (black truffle) and 60 Tuber borchii (bianchetto truffle) truffles were sampled in areas of Avellino, Salerno, Benevento, and Caserta. The E-nose correctly discriminated between Tuber mesentericum and Tuber borchii truffles. The GC/MS analysis revealed qualitative-quantitative differences between Tuber mesentericum and Tuber borchii, with a prevalence of volatile phenols and aromatic compounds for the black truffle, which are responsible for smoky and floral aromas, and ketones, alcohols, aldehydes, and thiophene derivatives for the bianchetto truffle, mostly responsible for earthy mushroom- and garlic-like aromas. The discriminant analysis performed on the E-nose data pattern provided an average correct classification between 55 and 60% for the same species collected in different sites. Tuber borchii truffles were better discriminated based on the harvesting altitude (hilly and coastal areas). GC/MS revealed quantitative differences in the volatile compounds of truffles of the same species collected in different areas, with variations in abundance based on the harvesting site. The distinctive profile of volatile compounds could represent a useful chemical marker to be investigated to authenticate the truffle harvesting area.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)
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Open AccessArticle
Application of Procyanidins from Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott in Fresh-Cut Apple Preservation
by
Shangjian Li, Jiajia Chen, Sarengaowa, Chen Chen and Wenzhong Hu
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060556 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The aim of this study was to find a purely natural and effective preservative that could be used in fresh-cut apples extracting proanthocyanidin (PC) components from black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott) using DESs (deep eutectic solvents). DM130 microporous resins were used
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The aim of this study was to find a purely natural and effective preservative that could be used in fresh-cut apples extracting proanthocyanidin (PC) components from black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott) using DESs (deep eutectic solvents). DM130 microporous resins were used in purification experiments to obtain proanthocyanidin purifiers with a higher content. To investigate the free radical scavenging ability (DPPH, ·OH, O2−, ABTS) of the resulting proanthocyanidin purifiers, experiments were conducted due to their potent antioxidant properties. The results show that the polyphenol extract from black chokeberry demonstrated an excellent antioxidant capacity, with more than 95% scavenging of DPPH, ABTS and superoxide anion at concentrations above 0.1 mg/mL. Furthermore, the antibacterial efficacy of the product was also evaluated. The results of this study on the inhibitory ability of bacteria demonstrated that PC exhibited superior inhibitory efficacy against E. coli and S. aureus, with inhibitory circles of 16 ± 0.11 mm and 18 ± 0.09 mm, respectively. Conversely, PC demonstrated no inhibitory efficacy against A. niger and Penicillium sp. Finally, the effect of PC in preserving fresh-cut apples was tested in terms of weight loss, hardness, appearance and total number of microorganisms. The results demonstrated a 26.44% reduction in weight loss and a 13.5% increase in hardness, as well as a 98% reduction in total bacterial counts in apple pieces treated with 5 mg/mL of PC in comparison to those left untreated.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Application of Edible Coatings on Fruits and Vegetables)
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Open AccessReview
A Review of Traditional Applications, Geographic Distribution, Botanical Characterization, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Hypericum ascyron L
by
Meihui Liu, Yongmei Zhou, Xiaoxiao Rui, Zi Ye, Linyu Zheng, Hao Zang and Yuan Zhong
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 555; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060555 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Hypericum ascyron L. (H. ascyron) is a significant medicinal plant traditionally used for various conditions like hematemesis, hemoptysis, injuries from falls, irregular menses, dysmenorrhea, and liver fire-induced headaches. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases like SciFinder and Web of
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Hypericum ascyron L. (H. ascyron) is a significant medicinal plant traditionally used for various conditions like hematemesis, hemoptysis, injuries from falls, irregular menses, dysmenorrhea, and liver fire-induced headaches. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases like SciFinder and Web of Science to explore its traditional uses, geographical distribution, botanical description, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. The objective of this review is to lay groundwork and suggest fresh avenues of investigation into the possible uses of the plant. Currently, two hundred and seventy compounds have been isolated and identified from H. ascyron, including phloroglucinols, xanthones, flavonoids, phenolics, steroids and triterpenoids, volatile components, and other compounds. Notably, phloroglucinols, xanthones, and flavonoids have exhibited remarkable pharmacological effects like antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities. Despite extensive research, further studies are needed to understand new components and mechanisms of action, requiring more detailed investigations. This thorough exploration could facilitate the advancement and utilization of H. ascyron.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Medicinal Herbs: Latest Advances and Prospects)
Open AccessArticle
Influence of pH on the Growth of Verticillium longisporum and Verticillium Stripe Severity in Canola (Brassica napus)
by
Yixiao Wang, Stephen E. Strelkov and Sheau-Fang Hwang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 554; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060554 (registering DOI) - 25 May 2024
Abstract
Verticillium stripe, caused by Verticillium longisporum, is an emerging disease of canola (Brassica napus) in Canada. Studies were conducted to assess the impact of pH on both the growth of V. longisporum and its virulence on the canola host. Fungal
[...] Read more.
Verticillium stripe, caused by Verticillium longisporum, is an emerging disease of canola (Brassica napus) in Canada. Studies were conducted to assess the impact of pH on both the growth of V. longisporum and its virulence on the canola host. Fungal growth was assessed by measuring the colony diameter following 14 and 21 days of incubation on potato dextrose agar at varying pH levels (4.7, 5.5, 6.5, 7.4, or 8.6). The results indicated that colonies of V. longisporum were approximately 16% greater in diameter at pH 7.4 and 8.6 compared with those at pH 5.5. The impact of pH on disease development at the seedling stage was investigated using a semi-hydroponic system with different pH levels of 4.4, 5.4, 6.3, 7.5, and 8.4 in half-strength Hoagland’s solution. Verticillium stripe was most severe at pH 7.5 and 8.4 after a 10-day period in the semi-hydroponic system. In a second inoculation experiment, canola seedlings previously inoculated with the fungus were transplanted into potting mix amended to four pH levels (5.6, 6.4, 7.2, and 7.8). The transplants were cultivated under greenhouse conditions and evaluated for Verticillium stripe severity at plant maturity. Disease severity was greatest at pH 7.8. This is the first study on the effects of pH on V. longisporum in canola. It suggests a substantial risk of increased disease severity and yield losses due to Verticillium stripe in regions with neutral to slightly alkaline soils.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Pathology and Disease Management (PPDM))
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Open AccessCommunication
Imidazolinone Resistance in Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.): Current Status, Breeding, Molecular Markers and Prospects for Application in Hybrid Seed Purity Improvement
by
Elena Victorovna Kozar and Elena Alekseevna Domblides
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 553; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060553 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Resistance of agricultural crops to herbicides is an important topic that concerns many researchers. One of the most popular groups of herbicides is the imidazolinone group. Resistant forms of crops such as wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), corn
[...] Read more.
Resistance of agricultural crops to herbicides is an important topic that concerns many researchers. One of the most popular groups of herbicides is the imidazolinone group. Resistant forms of crops such as wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), corn (Zea mays L.), rice (Oryza sativa L.) and oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) have been developed to this group of herbicides. All crops resistant to this group of herbicides have the commercial name Clearfield®. In this review, the information concerning oilseed rape resistance to the imidazolinone group of herbicides is collected and summarized; it will be useful for breeders and researchers engaged in this direction. This review touches upon the topic of mechanisms of oilseed rape resistance to imidazolinones. Mutation variants known to date, which provide resistance to this group of herbicides, are described, and known molecular markers of them are presented. Approaches to the selection of oilseed rape for resistance to the imidazolinone group of herbicides are mentioned. Various methods of utilizing imidazolinone resistance to improve the purity of hybrid seeds are also considered.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Brassica Crops Genomics and Breeding, Volume II)
Open AccessArticle
Resilient Response to Combined Heat and Drought Stress Conditions of a Tomato Germplasm Collection, Including Natural and Ethyl Methanesulfonate-Induced Variants
by
Rocío Fonseca, Rosa Micol-Ponce, Carmen V. Ozuna, Laura Castañeda, Carmen Capel, Antonia Fernández-Lozano, Ana Ortiz-Atienza, Sandra Bretones, José M. Pérez-Jiménez, Abraham S. Quevedo-Colmena, Juan D. López-Fábregas, Teresa Barragán-Lozano, Ricardo Lebrón, Celia Faura, Juan Capel, Trinidad Angosto, Isabel Egea, Fernando J. Yuste-Lisbona and Rafael Lozano
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 552; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060552 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Agricultural systems are currently facing significant issues, primarily due to population growth rates in the context of global climate change. Rising temperatures cause plant heat stress and impact crop yield, which in turn compromises global food production and safety. Climate change is also
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Agricultural systems are currently facing significant issues, primarily due to population growth rates in the context of global climate change. Rising temperatures cause plant heat stress and impact crop yield, which in turn compromises global food production and safety. Climate change is also having a significant impact on water availability around the world, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe in many regions. The combined effect of both heat and drought stresses increases plant damage, resulting in reduced plant development and productivity loss. Therefore, developing heat–drought-tolerant crop varieties is crucial for enhancing yield under these challenging conditions. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), a major vegetable crop highly appreciated for its nutritional qualities, is particularly sensitive to extreme temperatures, which have a significant negative impact on tomato fruit setting and cause male gametophyte abortion. In this work, a classical genetic approach was employed to identify tomato genotypes showing a resilient response to combined heat and drought stress conditions. A phenotype screening of a natural germplasm collection and an ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenized population resulted in the identification of a significant number of tomato lines tolerant to combined heat and drought conditions, specifically 161 EMS lines and 24 natural accessions as tolerant. In addition, TILLING and Eco-TILLING analyses were used as proof-of-concept to isolate new genetic variants of genes previously reported as key regulators of abiotic stress responses in different species. The identification of these variants holds the potential to provide suitable plant material for breeding programs focused on enhancing tomato resilience to adverse climate conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Production in Controlled Environment)
Open AccessReview
Spontaneous and Chemically Induced Genome Doubling and Polyploidization in Vegetable Crops
by
Maria Fomicheva, Yuri Kulakov, Ksenia Alyokhina and Elena Domblides
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 551; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060551 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Plant ploidy manipulation is often required for breeding purposes. However, there is no comprehensive review covering genome doubling in vegetable crops despite the abundance of data for a large number of vegetable species. Similar to other species, genome doubling is required in vegetable
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Plant ploidy manipulation is often required for breeding purposes. However, there is no comprehensive review covering genome doubling in vegetable crops despite the abundance of data for a large number of vegetable species. Similar to other species, genome doubling is required in vegetable crops to obtain doubled haploids (DHs). It is also utilized for the production of polyploids to overcome interspecific hybrid sterility and improve agricultural traits. Spontaneous haploid genome duplication (SHGD) occurs in many Apiaceae, Brassicaceae, Cucurbitaceae, and Solanaceae crops, allowing for the laborious treatment with antimitotic agents to be bypassed. SHGD mechanisms are not fully understood, but existing data suggest that SHGD can occur via nuclear fusion, endoreduplication, or other mechanisms during microspore or ovule early embryogenic development. Other studies show that SHGD can occur at later developmental stages during extended plant growth in vitro or ex vitro, possibly due to the presence of phytohormones in the medium and/or diploid cell competitive advantage. For unresponsive accessions and species with rare SHGD, such as onion (Allium cepa L.) and beet cultivars (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris L.), antimitotic agent treatment has to be applied. Antimitotic agent application efficiency depends on the treatment conditions, especially the agent concentration and exposure time. Also, plant developmental stage is critical for agent accessibility and plant survival. The existing methods can be used to further improve genome doubling methodology for major vegetable crops and other species.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetable Genomics and Breeding Research)
Open AccessArticle
Exogenous Application of Melatonin on the Preservation of Physicochemical and Enzymatic Qualities of Pepper Fruit from Chilling Injury
by
Narin Charoenphun, Nam Hoang Pham, Jessada Rattanawut and Karthikeyan Venkatachalam
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 550; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060550 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of melatonin (MT) treatment at varying concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 µmol L−1) on the post-harvest quality and shelf life of long green pepper fruits stored under low temperature for 28 days. Every 4 days,
[...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of melatonin (MT) treatment at varying concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75, 100 µmol L−1) on the post-harvest quality and shelf life of long green pepper fruits stored under low temperature for 28 days. Every 4 days, pepper fruits were examined for the chilling injury (CI) index, weight loss (WL), respiration rates, firmness, electrolyte leakage (EL), reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, non-enzymatic antioxidant (NEA) content, antioxidant (AO) enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidases (PODs)), and cellular degrading enzymes (polygalacturonase (PG), pectin methylesterase (PME), phospholipase D (PLD), and lipoxygenase (LOX)). MT-treated samples exhibited delayed and reduced CI stress compared to controls, with higher exogenous MT concentrations (>50 µmol L−1) offering significant (p < 0.05) CI reductions. During storage, WL was notably mitigated by MT treatment in the tested samples compared to control samples. This study also demonstrated that MT-treated pepper fruits effectively decelerated respiration rates and consequently preserved pepper firmness. A higher concentration of MT-treated pepper fruits demonstrated a significantly (p < 0.05) lowered level of ROS and MDA while maintaining membrane stability, as evidenced by reduced EL. MT treatment with increasing concentration increased the levels of glutathione (GSH), glutathione disulfide (GSSG), ascorbic acid (AsA), dehydroascorbate (DHA), and total phenolic content (TPC) in the pepper fruits compared to control and thus significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed the ROS production (superoxide anion (O2•−) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) radicals) in the pepper fruits. Furthermore, AO enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and POD were also high in the pepper fruits that were treated with higher concentrations of MT (>50 µmol L−1). Additionally, the activities of cellular degrading enzymes (PG, PME, PLD, and LOX), which are linked to senescence and stress-induced physiological disorders, were also effectively regulated by MT-treated (>75 µmol L−1) pepper fruits. Overall, the application of MT at higher concentrations (>75 µmol L−1) demonstrated substantial benefits in preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of pepper fruits during cold storage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)
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Open AccessArticle
Potassium Nutrition Induced Salinity Mitigation in Mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] by Altering Biomass and Physio-Biochemical Processes
by
Muhammad Yousaf Shani, M. Yasin Ashraf, Ammara Khalid Butt, Shahid Abbas, Muhammad Nasif, Zafran Khan, Rosario Paolo Mauro, Claudio Cannata, Nimra Gul, Maria Ghaffar and Faiqa Amin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060549 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The present investigation was conducted to explore the role of potassium nutrition in improving biomass and physio-chemical alterations to reduce the adverse effects of salinity in mungbean. A sand-culture experiment was carried out under different salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mM NaCl)
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The present investigation was conducted to explore the role of potassium nutrition in improving biomass and physio-chemical alterations to reduce the adverse effects of salinity in mungbean. A sand-culture experiment was carried out under different salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mM NaCl) with two levels of potassium (0 and 50 mM K2SO4) and two mungbean cultivars (NM-92 and Ramzan), and the alterations in mungbean biomass and metabolic activities were investigated. The results suggested that salinity significantly reduced the biomass, nitrate reductase activity (NRA), nitrite reductase activity (NiRA), total soluble proteins, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous contents in both mungbean cultivars in comparison to the control. However, K2SO4 at 50 mM significantly improved all the parameters in both mungbean cultivars except for the sodium content. A significant increase in the total free amino acids, carotenoids, and sodium content in both mungbean cultivars was observed due to salt stress. Moreover, principal component analysis and heatmaps were developed individually for both mungbean cultivars to assess the variability and correlation among the studied attributes under all applied treatments. Under saline conditions, the mungbean ‘Ramzan’ showed more marked reductions in almost all the growth parameters as compared to ‘NM-92’. The results suggest that the application of K2SO4 ameliorates the adverse effects of salinity by regulating osmolyte production, NRA, and NiRA, thus promoting plant growth and productivity.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plants Response to Abiotic Stresses: Strategies for Adaptations and Survival)
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Open AccessArticle
Can SPAD Values and CIE L*a*b* Scales Predict Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Concentrations in Leaves and Diagnose the Growth Potential of Trees? An Empirical Study of Four Tree Species
by
Lai Wei, Liping Lu, Yuxin Shang, Xiaodie Ran, Yunpeng Liu and Yanming Fang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060548 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Photosynthetic pigments are fundamental for plant photosynthesis and play an important role in plant growth. Currently, the frequently used method for measuring photosynthetic pigments is spectrophotometry. Additionally, the SPAD-502 chlorophyll meter, with its advantages of easy operation and non-destructive testing, has been widely
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Photosynthetic pigments are fundamental for plant photosynthesis and play an important role in plant growth. Currently, the frequently used method for measuring photosynthetic pigments is spectrophotometry. Additionally, the SPAD-502 chlorophyll meter, with its advantages of easy operation and non-destructive testing, has been widely applied in land agriculture. However, the application prospects of its test results in horticultural plants have not yet been proven. This study examines the reliability of SPAD values for predicting chlorophyll concentrations. Using fresh and senescent leaves from four common horticultural plants, we measured SPAD values, photosynthetic pigment concentrations, and leaf color parameters. A generalized linear mixed model demonstrated that SPAD values are a reliable indicator for predicting chlorophyll concentrations, yet interspecific variations exist. Based on the predictive power of SPAD values for chlorophyll, we first propose an Enrichment Index (CEI) and a Normal Chlorophyll Concentration Threshold (NCCT). The CEI can be used to compare SPAD values among different species, and the NCCT value can serve as a more accurate indicator for assessing the growth potential of old trees. However, due to a limited sample size, further research with larger samples is needed to refine the diagnosis of plant growth potential and enhance the management of ornamental plant cultivation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)
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Open AccessArticle
‘Rootpac R’ for Apricots? Yes!
by
Edina Mendelné Pászti, Géza Bujdosó, Sezai Ercisli and Ákos Mendel
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060547 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The rootstock ‘Rootpac R’ is not used for apricots. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of ‘Rootpac R’ in comparison to the widely used ‘Myrobalan 29C’ rootstock. The evaluation of the rootstocks was conducted in combination with 16 scion
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The rootstock ‘Rootpac R’ is not used for apricots. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of ‘Rootpac R’ in comparison to the widely used ‘Myrobalan 29C’ rootstock. The evaluation of the rootstocks was conducted in combination with 16 scion cultivars to assess their effects on vegetative traits and mortality. The total height of the trees on ‘Rootpac R’ initially surpassed the ‘Myrobalan 29C’ trees. By the end of the fourth year, both rootstocks showed comparable heights with ‘Rootpac R’ standing at 317 cm and ‘Myrobalan 29C’ standing at 307 cm. Both rootstocks exhibited comparable TCSA values of 5 cm2 initially; ‘Rootpac R’ surpassed 35% compared to ‘Myrobalan 29C’. Canopy space occupancy assessments revealed that ‘Rootpac R’ initially demonstrated superior space utilization, occupying 8% of the designated volume compared to 4% for ‘Myrobalan 29C’. By the fourth year, ‘Rootpac R’ exhibited a higher occupancy rate of 65% compared to 50% for ‘Myrobalan 29C’. For apricot cultivars, such as ‘Bergeron’, ‘C. óriás’, ‘Gönci magyarkajszi’, ‘Lady Cot’, ‘Tardif de Valance’, and ‘Tom Cot’, ‘Rootpac R’ exhibited survival rates beyond the fourth season, highlighting its effectiveness for these varieties. Based on these results, ‘Rootpac R’ rootstock could be useful in apricot growing.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Rootstock–Scion Interactions in Horticultural Crops, Volume II)
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Open AccessArticle
Leaf Fermentation Products of Allium sativum L. Can Alleviate Apple Replant Disease (ARD)
by
Chengwen Yin, Rong Zhang, Yiming Zhao, Gongshuai Wang, Chengmiao Yin, Yusong Liu and Zhiquan Mao
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060546 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Apple replant disease (ARD) is a serious threat to newly replanted apple seedlings. The alleviation of ARD is of great significance for the healthy development of the apple industry. In this study, we investigated the effects of leaf fermentation products (LFP) of Allium
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Apple replant disease (ARD) is a serious threat to newly replanted apple seedlings. The alleviation of ARD is of great significance for the healthy development of the apple industry. In this study, we investigated the effects of leaf fermentation products (LFP) of Allium sativum L. on the replanted soil environment and Malus hupehensis Rehd. seedlings. The results showed that LFP increased biomass accumulation, changed root architecture, increased root anti-oxidant enzyme activity, and decreased root MDA content under replanted conditions. In addition, the application of LFP increased soil nutrients and soil enzyme activity and reduced phenolic acid content. Furthermore, the LFP enriched the number of beneficial bacteria and reduced the number of harmful fungi, which positively affected the soil microbial community structure. Overall, our results demonstrated that LFP of A. sativum L. could alleviate the occurrence of ARD and provide new insights for the reuse of the leaves of A. sativum L. and the prevention of ARD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Protected Culture)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of S-RNase Genotypes of 65 Almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] Germplasm Resources and Close Relatives
by
Panyun Xu, Lirong Wang, Xinwei Wang, Yeting Xu, Yarmuhammat Ablitip, Chunmiao Guo and Mubarek Ayup
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060545 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Self-incompatibility (SI) systems in plants prevent self-pollination and mating among relatives, enhancing genetic diversity in nature but posing challenges in almond production and breeding. S-allele composition alongside the flowering periods of these cultivars enables the anticipation of cross-compatibility and optimal cultivar combinations for
[...] Read more.
Self-incompatibility (SI) systems in plants prevent self-pollination and mating among relatives, enhancing genetic diversity in nature but posing challenges in almond production and breeding. S-allele composition alongside the flowering periods of these cultivars enables the anticipation of cross-compatibility and optimal cultivar combinations for the allocation of pollinating trees in production. In the current study, 65 materials containing 61 almond (Prunus dulcis) germplasm resources, of which two were hybrids and the remaining four were peach (Prunus persica) germplasms, were used for the S-RNase genotype. The results showed that 55 genomic samples were amplified by PCR to obtain double-banded types, which identified their complete S-RNase genotypes, while the rest of the samples amplified only a single band, identifying one S-RNase gene in the S gene. A total of 30 S-RNase genes were identified in Prunus dulcis, Prunus webbii, Prunus persica, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus salicina, and Prunus cerasifera. Sequence analysis revealed polymorphisms spanning from 313 to 2031 bp within the amplified fragment sequence. The S57-RNase gene exhibited the highest frequency at 31.75% among the identified materials, with S1S57, S10S57, and S7S57 being the predominant S genotypes. A new S-RNase gene, named S65, was identified with a sequencing length of 1483 bp. Its deduced amino acid sequence shared 98.24% similarity with the amino acid sequence of the S-RNase gene on GenBank, with the highest homology. Furthermore, according to the findings, 65 materials belong to eight S genotype cross-incompatibility groups (CIG) and one semi-compatibility or compatibility group (0). Among them, most of the seven main almond germplasm resources and 35 cultivars can be cross-pollinated. The results of the study can lay the foundation for pollinator tree allocation and breeding hybrid parent selection in almond production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Developmental Biology in Tree Fruit and Nut Crops)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Combined Pretreatment with Bioequivalent Doses of Plant Growth Regulators Alleviates Dehydration Stress in Lactuca sativa
by
Irina I. Vaseva, Iskren Sergiev, Dessislava Todorova, Martynas Urbutis, Giedrė Samuolienė and Lyudmila Simova-Stoilova
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060544 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Plant hormones regulate adaptive responses to various biotic and abiotic stress factors. Applied exogenously, they trigger the natural plant defense mechanisms, a feature that could be implemented in strategies for supporting crop resilience. The potential of the exogenous cytokinin-like acting compound (kinetin), the
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Plant hormones regulate adaptive responses to various biotic and abiotic stress factors. Applied exogenously, they trigger the natural plant defense mechanisms, a feature that could be implemented in strategies for supporting crop resilience. The potential of the exogenous cytokinin-like acting compound (kinetin), the auxin analogue 1-naphtyl acetic acid (NAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and the ethyleneprecursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) to mitigate dehydration was tested on Lactuca sativa (lettuce) grown on 12% polyethylene glycol (PEG). Priming with different blends containing these plant growth regulators (PGRs) applied in bioequivalent concentrations was evaluated through biometric measurements and biochemical analyses. The combined treatment with the four compounds exhibited the best dehydration protective effect. The antioxidative enzyme profiling of the PGR-primed individuals revealed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and peroxidase activity in the leaves. Immunodetection of higher levels of the rate-limiting enzyme for proline biosynthesis (delta-pyroline-5-carboxylate synthase) in the primed plants coincided with a significantly higher content of the amino acid measured in the leaves. These plants also accumulated particular dehydrin types, which may have contributed to the observed stress-relieving effect. The four-component mix applied by spraying or through the roots exerted similar stress-mitigating properties on soil-grown lettuce subjected to moderate drought.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Production under Drought Stress)
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Open AccessArticle
Identification and Expression Analysis of the BTB/POZ Gene Family in Solanum tuberosum
by
Haoyue Feng, Yifei Lu, Bi Ren, Shimin Yang, Yongjian Liu, Liming Lu and Liqin Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060543 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The BTB/POZ (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-a-brac) family of proteins is widespread in plants and animals and plays important roles in growth, development, metabolism, and environmental responses. There are few reports on BTB family genes in potato. In this study, 34 sequences containing conserved
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The BTB/POZ (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-a-brac) family of proteins is widespread in plants and animals and plays important roles in growth, development, metabolism, and environmental responses. There are few reports on BTB family genes in potato. In this study, 34 sequences containing conserved BTB domains were obtained from the potato gene database, and the phylogenetic, physical, and chemical properties, gene structure, conserved motif, domain, and chromosomal localization of the potato BTB protein family were analyzed via bioinformatics methods. In addition, we used qRT-PCR to detect 12 selected StBTB genes. The results confirmed that these genes are involved in cold, ABA, salt, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), drought, and low-nitrogen stress, which is highly important for elucidating BTB family members and studying stress response and tolerance mechanisms. This study provides a theoretical basis for the study of the function and expression of potato BTB and lays a solid foundation for further understanding the molecular mechanism of the potato BTB gene under various environmental stresses.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Photoсhemistry in Horticultural Plant)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing Cadmium Stress Resilience in Myrtle Genotypes Using Machine Learning Predictive Models: A Comparative In Vitro Analysis
by
Mehmet Tütüncü, Musab A. Isak, Tolga İzgü, Dicle Dönmez, Yıldız Aka Kaçar and Özhan Şimşek
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060542 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of cadmium (Cd) stress on the micropropagation and rooting dynamics of two myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) genotypes with different fruit colors under controlled in vitro conditions. We evaluated the response of these genotypes to varying concentrations of
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This study investigated the effects of cadmium (Cd) stress on the micropropagation and rooting dynamics of two myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) genotypes with different fruit colors under controlled in vitro conditions. We evaluated the response of these genotypes to varying concentrations of Cd (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 µM) to determine dose-dependent effects on plantlet multiplication and root formation. Our results demonstrate that the white-fruited (WF) genotype exhibits greater resilience than the black-fruited (BF) genotype across all concentrations, maintaining higher multiplication rates and shoot heights. For instance, the multiplication rate at 100 µM Cd was highest for WF at 6.73, whereas BF showed the lowest rate of 1.94 at 500 µM. Similarly, increasing Cd levels significantly impaired root length and the number of roots for both genotypes, illustrating the detrimental impact of Cd on root system development. Additionally, this study incorporated machine learning (ML) models to predict growth outcomes. The multilayer perceptron (MLP) model, including random forest (RF) and XGBoost, was used to analyze the data. The MLP model performed notably well, demonstrating the potential of advanced computational tools in accurately predicting plant responses to environmental stress. For example, the MLP model accurately predicted shoot height with an R2 value of 0.87 and root length with an R2 of 0.99, indicating high predictive accuracy. Overall, our findings provide significant insights into the genotypic differences in Cd tolerance and the utility of ML models in plant science. These results underscore the importance of developing targeted strategies to enhance plant resilience in contaminated environments.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tissue Culture and Micropropagation Techniques of Horticultural Crops)
Open AccessEditorial
Seed Germination and Micropropagation of Ornamental Plants
by
Konstantinos Bertsouklis, Epaminondas Kartsonas and Angela Carra
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060541 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Ornamental species can improve the environmental conditions in cities, serving the European Union’s biodiversity strategy to bring nature back into our lives [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Germination and Micropropagation of Ornamental Plants)
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Combined Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Candidate Genes for Anthocyanin Accumulation in Ginkgo biloba Seed Exocarp
by
Jianlu Tang, Zhi Feng, Xiangyue Xiang, Yiqiang Wang and Meng Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060540 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Anthocyanin is an important pigment that affects plant color change. In this study, the color parameters and anthocyanin content of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp at different periods were measured, and it was determined that the a* value (redness value) of the seed exocarp
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Anthocyanin is an important pigment that affects plant color change. In this study, the color parameters and anthocyanin content of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp at different periods were measured, and it was determined that the a* value (redness value) of the seed exocarp was closely related to the color change occurring during the development of the seed exocarp, and the anthocyanin content in the seed exocarp showed an increasing trend. The molecular mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis in Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp is still unclear. In order to further understand the molecular mechanism of color change in Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp, the regulation mechanism and accumulation mode of anthocyanin in the seed exocarp at three different periods were analyzed using transcriptomic and metabolomic. A total of four key anthocyanins were screened from the metabolome, including three kinds of Cyanidin 3-arabinoside, Malvidin 3-glucoside and Cyanidin 3-sambubioside 5-glucoside with increased content. Among them, Cyanidin 3-arabinosidehad a strong correlation with the a* value (PCC = 0.914), which have a great influence on the color change of the seed exocarp, and Delphinidin 3-O-3″,6″-O-dimalonylglucoside with decreased content might jointly affect the formation of exocarp color. The transcriptome data show that among the structural genes, ANS (Gb_33402) had the highest correlation with Cyanidin 3-arabinoside (PCC = 0.9217) and in GbANS, only Gb_33402 showed an upregulated expression trend in the three stages of seed exocarp development, which suggesting that it plays an important role in anthocyanin accumulation in the seed exocarp and it may be the key structural gene affecting the formation of seed exocarp color. Among the transcription factors, the differential expression of most transcription factors (MYB, bHLH, b-ZIP, NAC, WDR and AP2/ERF) may jointly affect the formation of seed exocarp color by promoting anthocyanin accumulation. This study elucidates the main anthocyanins that cause the color change of the seed exocarp of Ginkgo biloba and reveals the molecular regulation mechanism of anthocyanins at different developmental stages of the seed exocarp. It provides a theoretical basis and insights for understanding the color change of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Decade of Research towards to Horticultural Crop from Omics to Biotechnology)
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Open AccessArticle
How Climate Variability Affects Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Yield, Oil, and Fatty Acids in Response to Sowing Dates
by
Muhammad Sajid, Hassan Munir, Saeed Rauf, Iqra Ibtahaj, Bilal Ahamad Paray, Anna Kiełtyka-Dadasiewicz, Aleksandra Głowacka and Mohamed A. A. Ahmed
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060539 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Climate variability is a major challenge concerning food security; therefore, there is a need for pragmatic solutions to improve agricultural production. Henceforth, this study was planned to optimize the planting time of exotic safflowers under the prevailing conditions in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A study
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Climate variability is a major challenge concerning food security; therefore, there is a need for pragmatic solutions to improve agricultural production. Henceforth, this study was planned to optimize the planting time of exotic safflowers under the prevailing conditions in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A study was executed by employing a split-plot design with six safflower accessions and five sowing dates ranging from 31 October 2019 to 31 December 2019. The results of the experimental safflower accession PI-198990 produced significant seed yields (2432 kg ha−1, 2772 kg ha−1 and 2366 kg ha−1) when sown on 30 November 2019, 15 December 2019, and 31 December 2019, respectively. On the other hand, on 31 October 2019 and 30 November 2019, sown safflower accessions PI-208677 and PI-250187 were the best performers, respectively. However, a higher achene oil percentage (31.5% and 30.8%) was noted in accessions PI-250187 and PI-314650 when sown on 31 December 2019 and 15 December 2019, respectively. The highest oleic acid content (22.92% and 22.83%) was determined in accession PI-314650 when planted on 30 November 2019 and 15 December 2019, respectively, whereas a higher linoleic acid content was observed on 31 October 2019 and 30 November 2019. Stability analysis showed that safflower accession PI-210834 was the most stable under all sowing environments, followed by PI-314650. Correlation analysis showed that oil percentage showed a negative correlation with phenological traits and growing degree days, and oil yield showed a strong positive relationship with heads, seed yield, biological yield, thousand seed weight, and harvest index.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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