Agronomy

19 pages, 2902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Biofortification of Wheat Plants by Combining a Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacterium (PGPR) and Polymeric Fe-Nanoparticles: Allies or Enemies?

by Manuel Merinero, Ana Alcudia, Belén Begines, Guillermo Martínez, María Jesús Martín-Valero, Jesús Alberto Pérez-Romero, Enrique Mateos-Naranjo, Susana Redondo-Gómez, Salvadora Navarro-Torre, Yadir Torres, Francisco Merchán, Ignacio D. Rodríguez-Llorente and Eloísa Pajuelo

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010228 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3767

Abstract

Biofortification has been widely used to increase mineral nutrients in staple foods, such as wheat (Triticum aestivum). In this study, a new approach has been used by analyzing the effect of inoculation with a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR), namely, Bacillus aryabhattai [...] Read more.

Biofortification has been widely used to increase mineral nutrients in staple foods, such as wheat (Triticum aestivum). In this study, a new approach has been used by analyzing the effect of inoculation with a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR), namely, Bacillus aryabhattai RSO25 and the addition of 1% (v/v) of organometallic Fe-containing polymeric nanoparticles (FeNPs) alone and in combination. Previously, the minimal inhibitory concentration of FeNPs for the bacterium was determined in order not to inhibit bacterial growth. All treatments had minor effects on seed germination and plant survival. Considering the physiology of plants, several photosynthetic parameters were significantly improved in individual treatments with FeNPs or the bacterium, particularly the efficiency of the photosystem II and the electron transport rate, which is indicative of a better photosynthetic performance. However, at the end of the experiment, a significant effect on final plant growth was not observed in shoots or in roots. When using FeNPs alone, earlier spike outgrow was observed and the final number of spikes increased by 20%. Concerning biofortification, FeNPs increased the concentration of Fe in spikes by 35%. In fact, the total amount of Fe per plant base rose to 215% with regard to the control. Besides, several side effects, such as increased Ca and decreased Na and Zn in spikes, were observed. Furthermore, the treatment with only bacteria decreased Na and Fe accumulation in grains, indicating its inconvenience. On its side, the combined treatment led to intermediate Fe accumulation in spikes, since an antagonist effect between RSO25 and FeNPs was observed. For this reason, the combined treatment was discouraged. In conclusion, of the three treatments tested, FeNPs alone is recommended for achieving efficient Fe biofortification in wheat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue How Could Microorganisms Benefit the Agriculture Environment?)

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17 pages, 3364 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cloning and Functional Analysis of the Soybean GmRIQ2 Promoter

by Binbin Zhang, Huayi Yin, Zhihui Sun, Xiaohui Song, Jing Deng, Qian Zhang and Dongmei Li

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010227 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2244

Abstract

The RIQ gene can optimize the structure of light-harvesting complex II by regulating the degree of granum stacking, and ultimately participates in plant light stress responses. The GmRIQ2 gene contributes to plant photoprotection and may be involved in negative regulation of yield. To [...] Read more.

The RIQ gene can optimize the structure of light-harvesting complex II by regulating the degree of granum stacking, and ultimately participates in plant light stress responses. The GmRIQ2 gene contributes to plant photoprotection and may be involved in negative regulation of yield. To understand the regulatory mechanisms of GmRIQ2 expression, we isolated the GmRIQ2 promoter (PGmRIQ2) from the KenFeng 16 soybean genome. Sequence analysis showed that several cis-acting elements were involved in hormone responsiveness, seed-specific regulation, anaerobic induction and light responsiveness. PGmRIQ2 was expressed in soybean roots. GUS activity was detected in Arabidopsis thaliana rosette leaves, stems and roots, indicating that PGmRIQ2 tended to drive expression in rosette leaf vascular tissue and had spatiotemporal expression characteristics at the early growth stage. Three promoter deletion fragments of 450 bp, 284 bp and 194 bp were obtained by 5′ deletion. These three fragments all drove GUS gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana rosette leaves, stems and roots. GUS gene expression decreased with deletion fragment truncation. In addition, the PGmRIQ2 auxin (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) response elements were located at base pairs −1661~−450, −450~−284 and −284~−194, respectively, and the promoter was induced by IAA, ABA, MeJA and light. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Genetics and Biotechnology)

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15 pages, 3124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Planting Period Effects on Wheat Productivity and Water Footprints: Insights through Adaptive Trials and APSIM Simulations

by Ram Swaroop Bana, Shanti Devi Bamboriya, Rabindra Nath Padaria, Raj Kumar Dhakar, Shanker Lal Khaswan, Ram Lal Choudhary and Jitendra Singh Bamboriya

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010226 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2402

Abstract

Scarcity of fresh water and climate change are the two main threats for wheat production in South Asia. Tweaking wheat planting period could be an effective cost-smart strategy to mitigate these stresses. To evaluate the performance of three leading wheat varieties under different [...] Read more.

Scarcity of fresh water and climate change are the two main threats for wheat production in South Asia. Tweaking wheat planting period could be an effective cost-smart strategy to mitigate these stresses. To evaluate the performance of three leading wheat varieties under different planting periods in pragmatic on-farm environments, trials were carried out during 2019–2020 and 2020–2021. Further, to have greater insights on long-term temporal scale, 22 years (2000 to 2021) of crop simulation data were analyzed to identify the optimum planting period of wheat for higher yield and water productivity using the APSIM cropping systems simulation model. The result showed that first fortnight of November (PD1)-sown crop resulted in higher grain yield and more irrigation water use efficiency. Wheat sown during PD1 and in the second fortnight of November (PD2) had 20–25% lower blue water requirement than the second fortnight of December (PD4) crop in the long run. To produce one tonne of wheat grain required an additional 20, 60 and 83 m³ irrigation water when the crop was sown at PD1, PD2, PD3 (first fortnight of December) and PD4, respectively. It was observed that PD4 reduced wheat yields by 20–22% compared to sowing on PD1 and PD2 and every 15 days’ delay in wheat planting after 15 November reduced the length of the crop growing season by 4–5 days. Hence, the early wheat planting is proven superior in harnessing maximum yield with minimum burden on blue water resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Eco-Sustainable Innovative Approaches for Water-Soil-Nutrient-Crop Management)

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14 pages, 1004 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heat Stress Leads to Poor Fruiting Mainly Due to Inferior Pollen Viability and Reduces Shoot Photosystem II Efficiency in “Da Hong” Pitaya

by Yu-Chun Chu and Jer-Chia Chang

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010225 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2411

Abstract

High summer temperatures (day/night: 40 °C/30 °C) are known to cause poor fruiting, reduced fruit/seed weight, and delayed fruit development in the “Da Hong” red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus); however, the mechanisms of these effects are unknown. This study examined how high [...] Read more.

High summer temperatures (day/night: 40 °C/30 °C) are known to cause poor fruiting, reduced fruit/seed weight, and delayed fruit development in the “Da Hong” red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus); however, the mechanisms of these effects are unknown. This study examined how high temperature (HT, 40 °C/30 °C) affects stamen and pistil fertility through pollination combinations and fruit set in “Da Hong” pitaya and evaluated photosystem II (PSII) efficiency in yellowed shoots (cladodes). The in-vitro pollen germination rate was significantly higher at optimal temperature (OT, 30 °C/20 °C) than at HT, which was also associated with a reduced flower length, poor fruit set, small fruit size, and low number of seeds after self-pollination. Meanwhile, fruit set and fruit development were remarkably improved by using the pollens taken from plants grown at OT and moderate temperature (MH, 35 °C/25 °C) after mutual cross pollination, indicating that the reduction in seed number caused by incomplete fertilization due to inferior pollen viability was the main cause of poor fruiting under HT rather than pistil or photoinhibition, although HT treatment was linked to reductions of PSII efficiency at both the adaxial and abaxial ends of shoots. The results suggested that pollen viability was most affected under HT stress; thus, yielding remarkably reduced fruiting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilience to Biotic and Environmental Stresses in Horticultural Crops)

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22 pages, 925 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influences of Propagation Method, Rootstock, Number of Axes, and Cultivation Site on ‘Fuji’ Scions Grown as Single or Multi-Leader Trees in the Nursery

by Paolo Lezzer, Stuart Tustin, Luca Corelli-Grappadelli, Sara Serra, Brendon Anthony, Alberto Dorigoni and Stefano Musacchi

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010224 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2114

Abstract

The adoption of high-density plantings (HDP) in apple orchards started with the introduction of dwarfing rootstocks from East Malling’s (UK) breeding program. A range of spindle-derived training systems have been developed to improve light interception/distribution with a variation in leader numbers. Many of [...] Read more.

The adoption of high-density plantings (HDP) in apple orchards started with the introduction of dwarfing rootstocks from East Malling’s (UK) breeding program. A range of spindle-derived training systems have been developed to improve light interception/distribution with a variation in leader numbers. Many of these training systems cannot guarantee early, consistent, and uniform illumination of the entire canopy. For this reason, planar 2-D canopies have been developed with varying numbers of primary axes with numerous second-order shoots. In this trial, carried out at the nursery level, three sites were selected: one in New Zealand (Hawke’s Bay Research Centre) and two in Italy (Bologna and Trento). Trees were produced with a single-, bi-, and tri-axis system utilizing three rootstocks (‘M27’, ‘M9’, ‘MM106’), characterized by an increasing level of vigor. The cultivation site played an important role in modulating early tree performance. Multi-leader trees reduced average shoot length in the Italian sites in the first year after grafting. The number of shoots and total growth developed on multi-leader trees was higher than single-axis trees. This may benefit growers that seek to use canopy architecture manipulation to fill space and control vigor when establishing HDP orchards. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Winter Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to Fertilizers with Nitrogen-Transformation Inhibitors and Timing of Their Application under Field Conditions

by Marie Školníková, Petr Škarpa, Pavel Ryant, Zdenka Kozáková and Jiří Antošovský

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010223 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2666

Abstract

Winter wheat is a widely cultivated crop that requires high inputs of nitrogen (N) fertilization, which is often connected with N losses. The application of fertilizers with nitrification (NI) and urease inhibitors (UI) is an opportunity to eliminate the risk of N losses [...] Read more.

Winter wheat is a widely cultivated crop that requires high inputs of nitrogen (N) fertilization, which is often connected with N losses. The application of fertilizers with nitrification (NI) and urease inhibitors (UI) is an opportunity to eliminate the risk of N losses and improve N availability to plants. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of conventional nitrogen fertilizers with fertilizers containing nitrogen-transformation inhibitors as well as to evaluate the timing of their application on the wheat-grain yield and quality under the conditions of a three-year field experiment. The examined fertilizers with inhibitors were applied in a single dose or in a split application in combination with conventional fertilizers. The single application of urea with NI and/or UI resulted in a relatively average increase in the grain yield, while protein content and the Zeleny-test values were significantly increased compared to the split N application. The more significant effect of urea with NI and UI was found under the moisture-rich conditions compared to the drier conditions. A significant increase in the grain yield (by 6.3%) and in the Zeleny-test value (by 16.5%) was observed after inhibited urea application comparing to the control treatment (without inhibitors). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Nutrient Requirements and Advanced Fertilizer Management Strategies)

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13 pages, 2071 KiB

Open AccessArticle

16S rRNA Gene-Based Metagenomic Analysis of Rhizosphere Soil Bacteria in Arkansas Rice Crop Fields

by Cássia Oliveira, Ehsan Shakiba, Dustin North, Madison McGraw, Ethan Ballard, Marissa Barrett-D’Amico, Galina Glazko and Yasir Rahmatallah

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010222 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4251

Abstract

The rhizomicrobiome is composed of microbes that live in association with plant roots. From nutrient cycling to carbon sequestration, soil microorganisms have provided a solid base for natural and agricultural ecosystems to function. The relationship between plant roots and soil microorganisms is especially [...] Read more.

The rhizomicrobiome is composed of microbes that live in association with plant roots. From nutrient cycling to carbon sequestration, soil microorganisms have provided a solid base for natural and agricultural ecosystems to function. The relationship between plant roots and soil microorganisms is especially relevant in food staples such as rice (Oryza sativa L.), as the various properties of these microbes can influence crop yield and plant health, thereby affecting a major portion of the food supply for an ever-growing world population. In this study, we used 16S rRNA gene-based metagenomic analysis to investigate the impact of crop rotation and soil cultivation methods (no-till or tillage) on rhizosphere bacterial diversity and composition in eight crop fields in Arkansas. Illumina MiSeq sequencing revealed 56 Phyla, with four major Phyla: Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. Soil microbial communities in the samples studied were phylogenetically diverse but with a stable community structure. Crop rotation and tillage did not significantly affect bacterial diversity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition for Sustainable Agriculture)

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15 pages, 1288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Remediation of Agricultural Soils with Long-Term Contamination of Arsenic and Copper in Two Chilean Mediterranean Areas

by Pedro Mondaca, Patricio Valenzuela, Nicole Roldán, Waldo Quiroz, Mónika Valdenegro and Juan L. Celis-Diez

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010221 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2215

Abstract

Soil amendments may decrease trace element accumulation in vegetables, improving food security and allowing the recovery of contaminated farmlands. Despite some promising results in the laboratory, validation of soil amendments in field conditions are scarce, especially in aerobic soils. Here, we assessed the [...] Read more.

Soil amendments may decrease trace element accumulation in vegetables, improving food security and allowing the recovery of contaminated farmlands. Despite some promising results in the laboratory, validation of soil amendments in field conditions are scarce, especially in aerobic soils. Here, we assessed the effect of different potential soil amendments on arsenic (As) accumulation in lettuces. Then, we compared them in terms of food security and the associated investment (efficacy and efficiency, respectively). We also hypothesized that the soil amendments do not lead to side effects, such as yield decrease, phytotoxicity of Cu, or undesired changes in soil properties. Thereby, we assessed lettuces grown on untreated contaminated soils (C+), treated contaminated soils, and untreated uncontaminated soils (C−) in two contrasting soil types (sandy and loamy soils). The treated contaminated soils consisted of multiple soil amendments. Soil amendments were: diammonium phosphate (DP), iron sulfate (IS), ferrous phosphate (FP), calcium peroxide (CP), and organic matter (OM). We found that phosphate amendments (DP and FP) reduced the As in edible tissues of lettuce in both areas, while CP only reduced As accumulation in the sandy soils area. The As intake through lettuces grown on these amended soils was about 30% lower than on the unamended ones. Cu concentrations in lettuces above 25 mg kg⁻¹ grown in contaminated soils without reducing growth were found, a result that differed from non-field studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Ecological Remediation and Farming Sustainability)

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16 pages, 16784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Litter Composition on the Structure and Functional Pathways of Soil Microbial Community during Phyllostachys Edulis Expansion

by Huiyun Dong, Shuai Shao, Chenfei Liang, Qiufang Xu, Junhui Chen and Hua Qin

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010220 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2186

Abstract

Forest ecosystem succession plays an important role in soil microbiota variation, and soil microbes will re-establish ecosystem function after disturbance events. A distinctive disturbance of the expansion of bamboo forest into the surrounding broadleaved ecosystem is the change in litter type input. We [...] Read more.

Forest ecosystem succession plays an important role in soil microbiota variation, and soil microbes will re-establish ecosystem function after disturbance events. A distinctive disturbance of the expansion of bamboo forest into the surrounding broadleaved ecosystem is the change in litter type input. We conducted a 6-month microcosm experiment to examine the effects of proportional changes in leaf litter composition due to moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) invasion into a broadleaved forest on soil microbial community. A series of mixed litters were prepared with bamboo litter occupying at 0%, 33%, 50%, 67% and 100% in proportion (with a decrease in litter carbon (C)/nitrogen (N) from 36.23 to 31.35), and they were then amended into a broadleaved forest soil at a rate of 1%, respectively. Soil bacterial and fungal communities at different incubation stages were determined by high-throughput sequencing. With the increasing proportion of bamboo litter, the broadleaved forest soil exhibited strong changes in microbiome assembly, including reducing bacteria alpha-diversity, the relative abundance of Acidobacteria and Basidiomycota, while increasing the relative abundance of Actinbacteria, Proteobacteria and Ascomycota. Moreover, the increased proportion of bamboo litter (0% PP→100% PP) increased the relative abundance of membrane transport and carbohydrate metabolism of soil bacteria but decreased the relative abundance of saprotrophic soil fungi. Redundancy analysis showed that bacteria rather than fungal communities changed greatly during incubation (p < 0.05). Additionally, the activities of soil pH, NO₃⁻-N, NH₄⁺-N, dissolved nitrogen and C- and N- acquiring enzymes were the main factors affecting bacterial and fungal community structure (p < 0.05). The soil physicochemical properties were significantly correlated with the composition of microbial phyla among different litter amendment treatments. These results indicated that different proportions of bamboo litter dramatically alter the soil bacterial rather than the fungal community, most likely by changing edaphic patterns. This study has important implications for understanding the litter–soil–microbe synergy during the bamboo forest expansion and provides a basis for assessing the ecological risk of bamboo forest expansion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Microbiome and Agriculture Management)

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24 pages, 2257 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Soil Nutrient Retention and pH Buffering Capacity Are Enhanced by Calciprill and Sodium Silicate

by Ji Feng Ng, Osumanu Haruna Ahmed, Mohamadu Boyie Jalloh, Latifah Omar, Yee Min Kwan, Adiza Alhassan Musah and Ken Heong Poong

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010219 - 17 Jan 2022

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5024

Abstract

In the tropics, warm temperatures and high rainfall contribute to acidic soil formation because of the significant leaching of base cations (K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Na⁺), followed by the replacement of the base cations with [...] Read more.

In the tropics, warm temperatures and high rainfall contribute to acidic soil formation because of the significant leaching of base cations (K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Na⁺), followed by the replacement of the base cations with Al³⁺, Fe²⁺, and H⁺ ions at the soil adsorption sites. The pH buffering capacity of highly weathered acid soils is generally low because of their low pH which negatively impacts soil and crop productivity. Thus, there is a need to amend these soils with the right amount of inorganic liming materials which have relatively high neutralizing values and reactivity to overcome the aforementioned problems. Soil leaching and the pH buffering capacity studies were conducted to determine whether the co-application or co-amendment of a calcium carbonate product (Calciprill) and sodium silicate can improve soil nutrient retention and pH buffering capacity of the Bekenu series (Typic Paleudults). A 30 day soil leaching experiment was carried out using a completely randomized design with 16 treatments and 3 replications after which the leached soil samples were used for a pH buffering capacity study. The Calciprill and sodium silicate treatments significantly improved soil pH, exchangeable NH₄⁺, available P, exchangeable base cations, Effective Cation Exchange Capacity (ECEC), and pH buffering capacity in comparison with the untreated soil. The improvements were attributed to the alkalinity of Calciprill and sodium silicate due to their high inherent K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, and Na⁺ contents. The neutralizing effects of the amendments impeded the hydrolysis of Al³⁺ (96.5%), Fe²⁺ (70.4%), and Mn²⁺ (25.3%) ions resulting in fewer H⁺ ions being produced. The co-application of Calciprill and sodium silicate reduced the leaching of Ca²⁺ (58.7%) and NO₃⁻ (74.8%) from the amended soils. This was due to the ability of sodium silicate to reduce soil permeability and protect the Calciprill and available NO₃⁻ from being leached. This also improved the longevity of Calciprill to enhance the soil pH buffering capacity. However, the amounts of NH₄⁺, P, and base cations leached from the amended soils were higher compared with the un-amended soils. This was due to the high solubility of sodium silicate. The most suitable combination amendment was 7.01 g Calciprill and 9.26 g sodium silicate (C2S5) per kilogram soil. It is possible for farmers to adopt the combined use Calciprill and sodium silicate to regulate soil nutrient retention and improve the soil pH buffering capacity of highly weathered acidic soils. This will enhance soil and crop productivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition for Sustainable Agriculture)

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15 pages, 4978 KiB

Open AccessReview

Novel Sequencing and Genomic Technologies Revolutionized Rice Genomic Study and Breeding

by Haiyong Gu, Shihu Liang and Junliang Zhao

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010218 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3401

Abstract

Rice is one of the most important food crops worldwide. Population growth and climate change posed great challenges for further rice production. In the past decade, we have witnessed an explosive development in novel sequencing and genomic technologies. These technologies have been widely [...] Read more.

Rice is one of the most important food crops worldwide. Population growth and climate change posed great challenges for further rice production. In the past decade, we have witnessed an explosive development in novel sequencing and genomic technologies. These technologies have been widely applied in rice genomic study and improvement processes, and contributed greatly to increase the efficiency and accuracy of rice breeding. On the other hand, novel sequencing and genomic technologies also promote the shift of breeding schemes from conventional field selection processes to genomic assisted breeding. These technologies have revolutionized almost every aspect of rice study and breeding. Here, we systematically sorted out and reviewed the progress and advancements of sequencing and genomic technologies. We further discussed how these technologies were incorporated into rice breeding practices and helped accelerate the rice improvement process. Finally, we reflected on how to further utilize novel sequencing and genomic technologies in rice genetic improvement, as well as the future trends of advancement for these technologies. It can be expected that, as the sequencing and genomic technologies will develop much more quickly in the future, and be combined with novel bioinformatics tools, rice breeding will move forward into the genomic assisted era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breakthroughs and Prospects of Rice Breeding)

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14 pages, 3281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Microbial and Botanical Insecticides on Grape Berry Moths and Their Effects on Secondary Pests and Beneficials

by Carlo Duso, Alberto Pozzebon, Mauro Lorenzon, Diego Fornasiero, Paola Tirello, Sauro Simoni and Bruno Bagnoli

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010217 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2241

Abstract

According to the European Directive 2009/128/EC and the subsequent provisions activated in member states, conventional pesticides should be progressively replaced by “non-chemical tools and/or measures”. The identification of reliable alternatives to pesticides is crucial to achieve this objective. A European project (PURE) was [...] Read more.

According to the European Directive 2009/128/EC and the subsequent provisions activated in member states, conventional pesticides should be progressively replaced by “non-chemical tools and/or measures”. The identification of reliable alternatives to pesticides is crucial to achieve this objective. A European project (PURE) was funded to investigate this topic with reference to annual and perennial crops. In this framework, a number of natural insecticides, in particular microbial and botanical ones (Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki, Beauveria bassiana, azadirachtin, pyrethrins and spinosad) were selected to test their effectiveness against grape berry moths, the key pests in most European vineyards. Trials were conducted in 2011 and 2012 in two experimental vineyards located in Italy (Tuscany and Veneto regions), following a randomized block design. Additional investigations were carried out in the Veneto region during 2013. Trial results stressed the high performance of spinosad and B. thuringiensis in controlling berry moth densities and the related damage. The use of B. bassiana mixed with B. thuringiensis did not significantly improve the impact of B. thuringiensis alone. Azadirachtin, and especially pyrethrins, proved to be less effective on berry moths than previous insecticides. The use of selected insecticides caused side-effects on a number of secondary pests, in particular leafhoppers. In 2011, densities of Empoasca vitis were higher in spinosad-treated plots probably because of a reduced egg parasitization rate. One year later, the population density of Zygina rhamni was higher in the plots treated with spinosad or pyrethrins. This trend was confirmed on spinosad-treated plots in the last experimental year. At the same time, spinosad and pyrethrins significantly reduced the predatory mite populations compared to other treatments. The use of these insecticides in viticulture is discussed in the framework of organic viticulture and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pest Biological Control and Crop Loss)

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13 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessReview

Non-Chemical Approaches to Control Postharvest Gray Mold Disease in Bell Peppers

by Charles Krasnow and Carmit Ziv

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010216 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5859

Abstract

Bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a widely grown vegetable crop that is nutritious and flavorful and economically important for growers worldwide. A significant limiting factor in the postharvest storage and long-distance transport of peppers is gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea [...] Read more.

Bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) is a widely grown vegetable crop that is nutritious and flavorful and economically important for growers worldwide. A significant limiting factor in the postharvest storage and long-distance transport of peppers is gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea. The pathogen is widespread in nature, highly aggressive, and able to cause disease at cool refrigerated temperatures during transport and storage. Fungicides have been relied on in the past to reduce bell pepper rots in storage; however, concern over residues on the fruit and environmental degradation have heightened the importance of natural and generally recognized as safe (GRAS) solutions that effectively limit disease. Essential oils, plant extracts, inorganic chemicals, biocontrols, defense activators, hot water treatments, and modified storage conditions have been tested to reduce losses from gray mold. Despite significant amounts of research on natural methods of control of B. cinerea postharvest, research specific to gray mold in peppers is limited. The objective of this review is to summarize the research conducted with environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides to control this important pathogen of peppers postharvest. To ensure a steady supply of healthy and nutritious produce, more research is needed on the development, use, and application of non-hazardous Botrytis control methods. Until an effective solution is found, using a combined approach including environmental controls, sanitation, and GRAS products remain paramount to limit Botrytis fruit rot of peppers postharvest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemicals in Fruits and Vegetables Production and Storage)

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8 pages, 413 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ecophysiological Crop Modelling Combined with Genetic Analysis Is a Powerful Tool for Ideotype Design

by Junfei Gu

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010215 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1729

Abstract

Improving the grain yield of crops in both favourable and stressful environments is the main breeding objective required to ensure food security. In this review, I outline a genotype-to-phenotype approach that exploits the potential values of quantitative genetics and process-based crop modelling in [...] Read more.

Improving the grain yield of crops in both favourable and stressful environments is the main breeding objective required to ensure food security. In this review, I outline a genotype-to-phenotype approach that exploits the potential values of quantitative genetics and process-based crop modelling in developing new plant types with high yields. The effects of quantitative trait locus (QTL), for traits typically at the single-organ level over a short time scale, were projected for their impact on crop growth during the whole growing season in the field. This approach can provide more markers for selection programmes for specific environments whilst also allowing for prioritization. Crop modelling is thus a powerful tool for ideotyping under contrasting conditions, i.e., use of single-environment information for predicting phenotypes under different environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modelling Cropping Systems to Improve Yield and Quality)

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19 pages, 3215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.) from Spontaneous Flora of the West Part of Romania: A Source of Nutrients for Locals

by Daniela S. Poșta, Isidora Radulov, Ileana Cocan, Adina A. Berbecea, Ersilia Alexa, Ionela Hotea, Olimpia A. Iordănescu, Maria Băla, Ilie C. Cântar, Sándor Rózsa, Florin L. Crista, Marius V. Boldea, Monica Negrea and Iuliana Popescu

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010214 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2516

Abstract

In this study, the nutritional potential of some hazelnut varieties from the spontaneous flora of Romania was analyzed as a means to increase the sustainability of the local production. The chemical composition from hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.) from spontaneous flora was determined [...] Read more.

In this study, the nutritional potential of some hazelnut varieties from the spontaneous flora of Romania was analyzed as a means to increase the sustainability of the local production. The chemical composition from hazelnuts (Corylus avellana L.) from spontaneous flora was determined in terms of mineral substances, protein, as well as essential and non-essential amino acids. The eight amino acids investigated had the following average values: Arg—0.68 g/100 g, Phe—0.415 g/100 g, Ser—0.277 g/100 g, Glu—0.188 g/100 g, Asp—0.133 g/100 g, Pro—0.038 g/100 g, and Lys—0.031 g/100 g. The average values of metal content were in the ranges: 88.39–146.98 µg·g⁻¹ (Fe); 96.93–123.23 µg·g⁻¹(Zn); 46.68–100.38 µg·g⁻¹ (Cu); 26.00–87.78 µg·g⁻¹ (Mn); 4.87–32.19 µg·g⁻¹ (Ni); 1.87–2.84 µg·g⁻¹ (Cr); and 1.29–1.86 µg·g⁻¹ (Cd). Crude protein content values were in the range 16.33–22.31%. In order to harness this nutritional potential, the variety with superior quality indices was included, in the form of flour, in biscuit-type baked goods that were characterized from nutritional and sensory points of view. The results showed that the content of polyphenols increased with the addition of hazelnut flour, as did the content of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Products: Nutritional Value and Functional Properties)

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15 pages, 3975 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimate Cotton Water Consumption from Shallow Groundwater under Different Irrigation Schedules

by Guohua Zhang and Xinhu Li

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010213 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1809

Abstract

Shallow groundwater is considered an important water resource to meet crop irrigation demands. However, limited information is available on the application of models to investigate the impact of irrigation schedules on shallow groundwater depth and estimate evaporation while considering the interaction between meteorological [...] Read more.

Shallow groundwater is considered an important water resource to meet crop irrigation demands. However, limited information is available on the application of models to investigate the impact of irrigation schedules on shallow groundwater depth and estimate evaporation while considering the interaction between meteorological factors and the surface soil water content (SWC). Based on the Richards equation, we develop a model to simultaneously estimate crop water consumption of shallow groundwater and determine the optimal irrigation schedule in association with a shallow groundwater depth. A new soil evaporation function was established, and the control factors were calculated by using only the days after sowing. In this study, two irrigation scheduling methods were considered. In Method A, irrigation was managed based on the soil water content; in Method B, irrigation was based on the crop water demand. In comparison with Method B, Method A was more rational because it could use more groundwater, and the ratio of soil evaporation to total evapotranspiration was low. In this model, the interaction between meteorological factors and the SWC was considered to better reflect the real condition; therefore, the model provided a better way to estimate the crop water consumption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimal Water Management and Sustainability in Irrigated Agriculture)

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14 pages, 944 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Deep Learning-Based Sensor Modeling for Smart Irrigation System

by Maira Sami, Saad Qasim Khan, Muhammad Khurram, Muhammad Umar Farooq, Rukhshanda Anjum, Saddam Aziz, Rizwan Qureshi and Ferhat Sadak

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010212 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5063

Abstract

The use of Internet of things (IoT)-based physical sensors to perceive the environment is a prevalent and global approach. However, one major problem is the reliability of physical sensors’ nodes, which creates difficulty in a real-time system to identify whether the physical sensor [...] Read more.

The use of Internet of things (IoT)-based physical sensors to perceive the environment is a prevalent and global approach. However, one major problem is the reliability of physical sensors’ nodes, which creates difficulty in a real-time system to identify whether the physical sensor is transmitting correct values or malfunctioning due to external disturbances affecting the system, such as noise. In this paper, the use of Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)-based neural networks is proposed as an alternate approach to address this problem. The proposed solution is tested for a smart irrigation system, where a physical sensor is replaced by a neural sensor. The Smart Irrigation System (SIS) contains several physical sensors, which transmit temperature, humidity, and soil moisture data to calculate the transpiration in a particular field. The real-world values are taken from an agriculture field, located in a field of lemons near the Ghadap Sindh province of Pakistan. The LM35 sensor is used for temperature, DHT-22 for humidity, and we designed a customized sensor in our lab for the acquisition of moisture values. The results of the experiment show that the proposed deep learning-based neural sensor predicts the real-time values with high accuracy, especially the temperature values. The humidity and moisture values are also in an acceptable range. Our results highlight the possibility of using a neural network, referred to as a neural sensor here, to complement the functioning of a physical sensor deployed in an agriculture field in order to make smart irrigation systems more reliable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Deep Learning in Smart Agriculture)

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29 pages, 3760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Network Analysis for Environmental Assessment in Wine Supply Chain

by Giulia Maesano, Mirco Milani, Elisabetta Nicolosi, Mario D’Amico and Gaetano Chinnici

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010211 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3507

Abstract

In the agri-food sector, the Life Cycle Assessment method (LCA) is used to evaluate the environmental impact of a product. Within agri-food products, wine is among the most analysed products, not only for its economic importance but also for the environmental impact of [...] Read more.

In the agri-food sector, the Life Cycle Assessment method (LCA) is used to evaluate the environmental impact of a product. Within agri-food products, wine is among the most analysed products, not only for its economic importance but also for the environmental impact of its activity. The paper aims to identify the main trends in the wine sector revolving around environmental evaluation using the LCA method in the academic literature. The aim is to investigate the literature on life cycle assessment analysis of grape and wine production through the systematic grouping of papers into clusters of research. So, the purpose is to discuss the gaps and insights identified by the study in order to aid in the development of a comprehensive state of the art on the topic. Scopus and Web of Science were used to search all articles following a clear and replicable protocol. The results (keywords) were subjected to co-occurrence analysis using VOSviewer, after which the articles were further analysed. Through a bibliographic coupling analysis, the research results were grouped through a network analysis that allowed identifying the research trends on the topic. Three clusters were identified containing the main lines of research on the subject. The results show that nowadays the literature is focusing on concerns related to climate change and consumer awareness on sustainability issues and certifications as well as environmental impacts generated mainly in the production phase in the vineyard. The research results are of interest for future research on LCA analysis in the wine sector in order to contribute to the discussion on the current model in the global wine sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Decision Support for Agri-Food Green Supply Chain)

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15 pages, 1208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploiting Plant Functional Diversity in Durum Wheat–Lentil Relay Intercropping to Stabilize Crop Yields under Contrasting Climatic Conditions

by Gilbert Koskey, Federico Leoni, Stefano Carlesi, Luciano Avio and Paolo Bàrberi

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010210 - 16 Jan 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3019

Abstract

Relay intercropping is considered a valuable agroecological practice to increase and stabilize crop yields while ensuring the provision of several ecosystem services as well as sustainability and resilience to changing climatic conditions. However, farmers are still reluctant in the use of intercropping practices [...] Read more.

Relay intercropping is considered a valuable agroecological practice to increase and stabilize crop yields while ensuring the provision of several ecosystem services as well as sustainability and resilience to changing climatic conditions. However, farmers are still reluctant in the use of intercropping practices since there is a huge knowledge gap regarding the time of sowing, sowing ratio, crop stand density, and cultivar choice. In this study, we carried out a 3-year field experiment in Central Italy to assess the effect of relay intercropping on the agronomic performance and competitiveness of winter durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf. cv. Minosse) and spring lentil (Lens culinaris Medik. cv. Elsa) under a low-input management system, comparing different crop stand types (monocrop vs. intercrop) and target plant densities (350 plants m²—full dose vs. 116 plants m²—1/3 dose). The results revealed that intercropping increased grain yield compared to monocropping: significantly (p < 0.0001) against both monocrops in 2021 and non-significantly against durum wheat in 2019 and 2020. Yield advantage in both intercropping systems ranged between 164 and 648%. Durum wheat competitiveness was stronger in 2019 and 2021, while lentil was the most competitive component in 2020. Intercropping favored P accumulation in durum wheat shoots. There was no difference in grain yield of both crops between the highly- and lowly-dense system in 2020 and 2021. Both intercropping strategies were as effective as mechanical hoeing in controlling weeds and proved beneficial in stabilizing lentil productivity. Further economic analysis capturing the additional costs incurred in intercropping and mechanical weeding would highlight the magnitude of profitability of these systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Plant Functional Diversity in Agroecosystems)

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16 pages, 4616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Greenhouse Assays with Lactuca sativa for Testing Sewage Sludge-Based Soil Amendments

by Andreia F. Santos, Ana M. Veríssimo, Pedro Brites, Filipe M. Baptista, José C. Góis and Margarida J. Quina

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010209 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1975

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture practices within the guidelines of nutrient recycling and the circular economy must be increasingly promoted. This work aims to evaluate the performance of dried sewage sludge (DSS), green liquor dregs mixed with sewage sludge (DSSA), raw sewage sludge, and commercial organic [...] Read more.

Sustainable agriculture practices within the guidelines of nutrient recycling and the circular economy must be increasingly promoted. This work aims to evaluate the performance of dried sewage sludge (DSS), green liquor dregs mixed with sewage sludge (DSSA), raw sewage sludge, and commercial organic fertilizer control, using a short-term agronomic assessment with lettuce crop (Lactuca sativa) in greenhouse conditions. Different application rates based on the nitrogen content were tested for each soil amendment: 0, 85, 170, and 225 kg N/ha (treatments T0, T1, T2, and T3, respectively). DSS and DSSA resulted in fresh lettuce productivities 1.3 and 3.2 times higher in T3 than in T0, respectively. The ideal N content in lettuce leaves was reached for all materials and treatments, with the highest values obtained for DSS (2.88–3.33% from T1 to T3). Lettuce produced in soils amended with DSS and DSSA showed also ideal levels of Ca. Overall, the performance of sludge-based products was similar to commercial fertilizer, without impairing the nutritional balance of the crop and the soil. Full article

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16 pages, 2864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Different Tillage Systems on Soil Organic Carbon and Enzymatic Activity

by Małgorzata Szostek, Ewa Szpunar-Krok, Renata Pawlak, Jadwiga Stanek-Tarkowska and Anna Ilek

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010208 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3127

Abstract

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of conventional, simplified, and organic farming systems on changes in the content of soil organic carbon, organic matter fractions, total nitrogen, and the enzymatic activity. The research was conducted from 2016–2018 on arable [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to compare the effect of conventional, simplified, and organic farming systems on changes in the content of soil organic carbon, organic matter fractions, total nitrogen, and the enzymatic activity. The research was conducted from 2016–2018 on arable land in the south-eastern part of Poland. The selected soils were cultivated in conventional tillage (C_Ts), simplified tillage (S_Ts), and organic farming (O_Fs) systems. The analyses were performed in soil from the soil surface layers (up to 25 cm depth) of the experimental plots. The highest mean contents of soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and organic matter fractions were determined in soils subjected to the simplified tillage system throughout the experimental period. During the study period, organic carbon concentration on surface soil layers under simplified tillage systems was 31 and 127% higher than the soil under conventional tillage systems and organic farming systems, respectively. Also, the total nitrogen concentration in those soils was more than 40% and 120% higher than conventional tillage systems and organic farming systems, respectively. Moreover, these soils were characterised by a progressive decline in SOC and Nt resources over the study years. There was no significant effect of the analysed tillage systems on the C:N ratio. The tillage systems induced significant differences in the activity of the analysed soil enzymes, i.e., dehydrogenase (DH) and catalase (CAT). The highest DH activity throughout the experiment was recorded in the O_Fs soils, and the mean value of this parameter was in the range of 6.01–6.11 μmol TPF·kg⁻¹·h⁻¹. There were no significant differences in the CAT values between the variants of the experiment. The results confirm that, regardless of other treatments, such as the use of organic fertilisers, tillage has a negative impact on the content of SOC and organic matter fractions in the O_Fs system. All simplifications in tillage reducing the interference with the soil surface layer and the use of organic fertilisers contribute to improvement of soil properties and enhancement of biological activity, which helps to maintain its productivity and fertility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotechnology of Microorganisms in the Agriculture Environment)

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13 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating Nutrient Uptake Requirements for Melon Based on the QUEFTS Model

by Meijuan Wen, Sicun Yang, Lin Huo, Ping He, Xinpeng Xu, Chengbao Wang, Yueqiang Zhang and Wei Zhou

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010207 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3596

Abstract

Imbalanced and excessive fertilizer application has resulted in low yields and reduced nutrient use efficiency for melon production in China. Estimating nutrient requirements is crucial for effectively developing site-specific fertilizer recommendations for increasing yield and profit while reducing negative environmental impacts. Relationships between [...] Read more.

Imbalanced and excessive fertilizer application has resulted in low yields and reduced nutrient use efficiency for melon production in China. Estimating nutrient requirements is crucial for effectively developing site-specific fertilizer recommendations for increasing yield and profit while reducing negative environmental impacts. Relationships between the yield and nutrient uptake requirements of above-ground dry matter were assessed using 1127 on-farm observations (2000–2020) from melon production regions of China. The quantitative evaluation of fertility of tropical soils (QUEFTS) model was used to estimate nutrient requirements. It predicted a linear increase in yield at balanced nutrient uptake levels until the yield reached approximately 60–80% of the potential yield. In order to produce 1000 kg of fruit, 2.9, 0.4 and 3.2 kg/ha of N, P and K (7.2:1.0:7.8), respectively, were required for above-ground parts, while the corresponding nutrient internal efficiencies were 345.3, 2612.6 and 310.0 kg per kg N, P and K, respectively, whereas 1.4, 0.2 and 1.9 kg of N, P and K were required to replace nutrients removed after harvest. The corresponding fruit absorption rates were 47.0%, 59.5% and 58.2%, respectively. Field validation experiments confirmed the consistency between observed and simulated uptake rates, indicating that this model could estimate nutrient requirements. These findings will help develop fertilizer recommendations for improving melon yield and nutrient use efficiency. Full article

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19 pages, 1532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Control of Substrate Water Availability Using Soil Sensors and Effects of Water Deficit on the Morphology and Physiology of Potted Hebe andersonii

by Daniel Bañón, Beatriz Lorente, Sebastián Bañón, María Fernanda Ortuño, María Jesús Sánchez-Blanco and Juan José Alarcón

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010206 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2124

Abstract

Many plant producers tend to overwater crops to prevent water stress and salt-induced damage. These practices waste irrigation water and cause leaching that harms the environment and increases production costs. In order to optimize water consumption and minimize the environmental impact of plant [...] Read more.

Many plant producers tend to overwater crops to prevent water stress and salt-induced damage. These practices waste irrigation water and cause leaching that harms the environment and increases production costs. In order to optimize water consumption and minimize the environmental impact of plant production, this study aimed to determine the physiological and morphological responses of Hebe andersonii to three substrate volumetric water contents (49%, 39%, and 32%). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with an irrigation protocol that consisted of adding small volumes of water to avoid leaching while monitoring substrate moisture with dielectric soil sensors. The results showed that moderately low substrate moisture improved the water-use efficiency, while growth was significantly reduced under more severe water deficit conditions (but without leaf chlorosis or abscission). The photosynthetic activity of Hebe was primarily controlled by the stomatal aperture, which was co-determined by the substrate moisture and seasonal temperature. Hebe leaves promoted non-photochemical quenching when carbon assimilation was limited by a water deficit, and accumulated solutes through an osmotic adjustment process (especially Cl⁻, Na⁺, and K⁺) to maintain their water status. Overall, Hebe andersoni cv. Variegata could successfully grow and improve its water-use efficiency in low substrate moisture and under a non-draining irrigation regime. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Physiology of Abiotic Stresses)

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22 pages, 6686 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Observed Changes in Agroclimate Metrics Relevant for Specialty Crop Production in California

by Lauren E. Parker, Ning Zhang, John T. Abatzoglou, Steven M. Ostoja and Tapan B. Pathak

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010205 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2888

Abstract

Every decade, a suite of standardized climatological metrics known as climate normals are updated, providing averages of temperature and precipitation data over the previous 30-year period. Although some of these climate normals are directly applicable to agricultural producers, there are additional agroclimate metrics [...] Read more.

Every decade, a suite of standardized climatological metrics known as climate normals are updated, providing averages of temperature and precipitation data over the previous 30-year period. Although some of these climate normals are directly applicable to agricultural producers, there are additional agroclimate metrics calculated from meteorological data that provide physiologically relevant information for on-farm management decisions. In this study, we identified a suite of energy-based agroclimate metrics and calculated changes over the two most recent normal periods (1981–2010 and 1991–2020), focusing on specialty crop production regions in California. Observed changes in agroclimate metrics were largely consistent with broader global warming trends. While most metrics showed small changes between the two periods, during the 1991–2020 period, the last spring freeze occurred ~5 days earlier as compared to the 1981–2010 period, contributing to a >6 day longer frost-free period in the Sacramento and Salinas Valleys; likewise an additional 6.4 tropical nights (Tn > 20 °C) occurred in the Coachella Valley during the 1991–2020 period. A complementary trend analysis of the agroclimate metrics over the 1981–2020 period showed significant increases in growing degree days across all agricultural regions, while significant increases in heat exposure were found for the Salinas and Imperial Valleys and over the Central Coast region. Moreover, summer reference evapotranspiration increased approximately 40 mm in California’s Central Valley during 1981–2020, with implications for agricultural water resources. Quantifying the shifts in these agroclimate metrics between the two most recent 30-year normal periods and the accompanying 40-year trends provides context for understanding and communicating around changing climatic baselines and underscores the need for adaptation to meet the challenge that climate change poses to agriculture both in the future and in the present. Full article

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14 pages, 1662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plants from Urban Parks as Valuable Cosmetic Ingredients: Green Extraction, Chemical Composition and Activity

by Marijan Marijan, Jasna Jablan, Lejsa Jakupović, Mario Jug, Eva Marguí, Rogerta Dalipi, Emanuele Sangiorgi and Marijana Zovko Končić

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010204 - 15 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2426

Abstract

The research on the possibilities of using biowaste from urban green areas is scarce. In this work, four plants, widely distributed in urban parks in Central Europe (Lotus corniculatus, Medicago lupulina, Knautia arvensis and Plantago major) were extracted using [...] Read more.

The research on the possibilities of using biowaste from urban green areas is scarce. In this work, four plants, widely distributed in urban parks in Central Europe (Lotus corniculatus, Medicago lupulina, Knautia arvensis and Plantago major) were extracted using eco-friendly solvents based either on aqueous cyclodextrin solutions (hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin or γ-cyclodextrin) or natural deep eutectic solvents based on glycerol, betaine and glucose. Metal content was determined using total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF). The content of selected metabolites was determined using UV-VIS spectrophotometric methods and HPLC. Skin-related bioactivity was assessed using tyrosinase and elastase inhibition assays. The selected plants contained metals beneficial for skin health, such as zinc and calcium, while having a low content of toxic heavy metals. The extracts contained the bioactive phenolics such as quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin and apigenin. L. corniculatus was the most potent tyrosinase inhibitor, while K. arvensis showed the most pronounced elastase inhibitory activity. The employed solvents actively contributed to the observed bioactivity. The results indicate that the biowaste obtained from urban parks represents an ecologically acceptable alternative to conventional cultivation for the preparation of ecologically acceptable, high-value cosmetic products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development and Application of X-rays in Metal Analysis of Soil and Plants)

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13 pages, 1084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Trait Loci for Resistance to Potato Dry Rot Caused by Fusarium sambucinum

by Sylwester Sobkowiak, Marta Janiszewska, Emil Stefańczyk, Iwona Wasilewicz-Flis and Jadwiga Śliwka

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010203 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1904

Abstract

Tuber dry rot is an important disease of potato caused by soil and seed-borne pathogens of the Fusarium genus leading to losses that may reach 60% of the yield. The goal of this work was to study the inheritance of the dry rot [...] Read more.

Tuber dry rot is an important disease of potato caused by soil and seed-borne pathogens of the Fusarium genus leading to losses that may reach 60% of the yield. The goal of this work was to study the inheritance of the dry rot resistance in two diploid potato hybrid populations (11–36 and 12–3) with complex pedigrees, including several wild Solanum spp. We used an aggressive isolate of F. sambucinum for phenotyping both progenies, parents, and standard potato cultivars in laboratory tuber tests, in three subsequent years. The QTL for dry rot resistance were mapped by interval mapping on existing genetic maps of both mapping populations. The most important and reproducible QTL for this trait was mapped on chromosome I and additional year- and population-specific QTL were mapped on chromosomes II, VII, IX, XI, and XII, confirming polygenic control of this resistance. This is the first study mapping the loci affecting tuber dry rot resistance in potato genome that can contribute to better understanding of potato-F. sambucinum interaction and to more efficient breeding of resistant potato cultivars. Full article

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

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26 pages, 7279 KiB

Open AccessArticle

UAV-Based Hyperspectral and Ensemble Machine Learning for Predicting Yield in Winter Wheat

by Zongpeng Li, Zhen Chen, Qian Cheng, Fuyi Duan, Ruixiu Sui, Xiuqiao Huang and Honggang Xu

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010202 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 3576

Abstract

Winter wheat is a widely-grown cereal crop worldwide. Using growth-stage information to estimate winter wheat yields in a timely manner is essential for accurate crop management and rapid decision-making in sustainable agriculture, and to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact. UAV remote sensing [...] Read more.

Winter wheat is a widely-grown cereal crop worldwide. Using growth-stage information to estimate winter wheat yields in a timely manner is essential for accurate crop management and rapid decision-making in sustainable agriculture, and to increase productivity while reducing environmental impact. UAV remote sensing is widely used in precision agriculture due to its flexibility and increased spatial and spectral resolution. Hyperspectral data are used to model crop traits because of their ability to provide continuous rich spectral information and higher spectral fidelity. In this study, hyperspectral image data of the winter wheat crop canopy at the flowering and grain-filling stages was acquired by a low-altitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and machine learning was used to predict winter wheat yields. Specifically, a large number of spectral indices were extracted from the spectral data, and three feature selection methods, recursive feature elimination (RFE), Boruta feature selection, and the Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), were used to filter high spectral indices in order to reduce the dimensionality of the data. Four major basic learner models, (1) support vector machine (SVM), (2) Gaussian process (GP), (3) linear ridge regression (LRR), and (4) random forest (RF), were also constructed, and an ensemble machine learning model was developed by combining the four base learner models. The results showed that the SVM yield prediction model, constructed on the basis of the preferred features, performed the best among the base learner models, with an R² between 0.62 and 0.73. The accuracy of the proposed ensemble learner model was higher than that of each base learner model; moreover, the R² (0.78) for the yield prediction model based on Boruta’s preferred characteristics was the highest at the grain-filling stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synergistic Technology in Precision and Digital Agriculture)

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19 pages, 2624 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Light Intensity: The Role Player in Cucumber Response to Cold Stress

by Tahereh Ashrostaghi, Sasan Aliniaeifard, Aida Shomali, Shiva Azizinia, Jahangir Abbasi Koohpalekani, Moein Moosavi-Nezhad and Nazim S. Gruda

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010201 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3423

Abstract

Low temperatures are a substantial limitation in the geographic distribution of warm-season crops such as cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Tolerance to low temperatures varies among different plant species and genotypes when changes in environmental cues occur. Therefore, biochemical and biophysical events should [...] Read more.

Low temperatures are a substantial limitation in the geographic distribution of warm-season crops such as cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Tolerance to low temperatures varies among different plant species and genotypes when changes in environmental cues occur. Therefore, biochemical and biophysical events should be coordinated to form a physiological response and cope with low temperatures. We examined how light intensity influences the effects of low temperature on photosynthesis and some biochemical traits. We used chlorophyll fluorescence imaging and polyphasic fluorescence transient to analyze cold stress damage by 4 °C. Photosynthetic Photon Flux Densities (PPFDs) of 0, 300, and 600 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹, in four accessions of cucumber, were investigated. The results show that the negative effects of cold stress are PPFD-dependent. The adverse effect of cold stress on the electron transport chain is more pronounced in plants exposed to 600 μmol m⁻² s⁻¹ than the control and dark-exposed plants, indicated by a disturbance in the electron transport chain and higher energy dissipation. Moreover, biochemical traits, including the H₂O₂ content, ascorbate peroxidase activity, electrolyte leakage, and water-soluble carbohydrate, increased under low temperature by increasing the PPFD. In contrast, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents decreased under low temperature through PPFD elevation. Low temperature induced a H₂O₂ accumulation via suppressing ascorbate peroxidase activity in a PPFD-dependent manner. In conclusion, high PPFDs exacerbate the adverse effects of low temperature on the cucumber seedlings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Crop Physiology and Stress)

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24 pages, 1609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Farmers’ Perceptions, Insight Behavior and Communication Strategies for Rice Straw and Stubble Management in Thailand

by Sukanya Sereenonchai and Noppol Arunrat

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010200 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3472

Abstract

The adoption of rice straw and stubble management approaches can be affected by various factors. To understand the psychological factors influencing Thai farmers’ adoption of rice straw and stubble management approaches, three integrated behavioral theories were employed: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), [...] Read more.

The adoption of rice straw and stubble management approaches can be affected by various factors. To understand the psychological factors influencing Thai farmers’ adoption of rice straw and stubble management approaches, three integrated behavioral theories were employed: the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the Value-Belief-Norm (VBN) and the Health Belief Model (HBM). Then, a practical communication framework was synthesized and proposed to promote rice straw utilization for social-ecological benefits to achieve more sustainable agricultural production. Through a questionnaire survey and in-depth interviews with 240 local farmers, a statistical analysis was performed employing cross-tab, stepwise multiple linear regression, one-way ANOVA and descriptive content analysis using QDA lite miner software. The key results clearly showed that perceived pro-environmental personal norms, perceived cues to rice straw utilization, perceived behavioral control, perceived severity of rice straw burning, perceived ascription of responsibility, and the perceived benefits of rice straw utilization were significantly negatively influenced by burning, and that there was a significantly negative difference to non-burning approaches. Meanwhile, cost savings as perceived benefits of the current option of burning showed a significantly positive difference when compared with incorporation and free-duck grazing options. In communication strategies to promote rice straw utilization for achieving sustainable agriculture, key messages should highlight the clear steps of rice straw utilization, as well as the costs and benefits of each option in terms of economic, health, environmental and social perspectives. Moreover, messages designed to promote action knowledge and self-efficacy at the group level, to promote perceived responsibility via self-awareness and self-commitment, and convenient channels of communication to the farmers can help to achieve more effective non-burning rice straw and stubble management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social-Ecologically More Sustainable Agricultural Production)

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17 pages, 2372 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Early Effects of Fertilizer and Herbicide Reduction on Root-Associated Biota in Oil Palm Plantations

by Aisjah R. Ryadin, Dennis Janz, Dominik Schneider, Aiyen Tjoa, Bambang Irawan, Rolf Daniel and Andrea Polle

Agronomy 2022, 12(1), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy12010199 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3022

Abstract

To secure high yield, tropical oil palm plantations are fertilized, and understory vegetation is controlled by chemical clearing with herbicides. These treatments cause a drastic turnover of soil microbes and cause loss of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. Here, we tested if reduced fertilization and [...] Read more.

To secure high yield, tropical oil palm plantations are fertilized, and understory vegetation is controlled by chemical clearing with herbicides. These treatments cause a drastic turnover of soil microbes and cause loss of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi. Here, we tested if reduced fertilization and weeding instead of conventional treatments restored beneficial ecological groups associated with roots. We conducted our study one year after the start of the reduced management in large-scale oil palm plantations. We hypothesized that reduced fertilizer application and weeding result in shifts of the root-associated species composition because changes in the management regimes affect belowground biomass and nutrients in soil and roots. Alternatively, we hypothesized that the legacy of massive soil fertilization and herbicide application preclude compositional shifts of root-associated biota within short time periods. We did not find any significant treatment effects on root nutrient contents, root biomass, and nutrients in soil. At the level of species (based on operational taxonomic units obtained by Illumina sequencing) or phyla, no significant effects of reduced management were observed. However, distinct functional groups showed early responses to the treatments: nematodes decreased in response to weeding; yeasts and ectomycorrhizal-multitrophic fungi increased under fertilizer treatments; arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi increased under fertilizer reduction. Since the responsive ecological groups were represented by low sequence abundances, their responses were masked by very high sequence abundances of saprotrophic and pathotrophic fungi. Thus, the composition of the whole root-associated community was unaffected by reduced management. In conclusion, our results show that changes in management regimes start to re-wire critical constituents of soil–plant food webs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Soil Microorganisms for Improved Plant Performance and Resilience in Sustainable Agricultural Systems)

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Agronomy, Volume 12, Issue 1 (January 2022) – 228 articles

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