Agronomy

16 pages, 1816 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Modelling the Effect and Variability of Integrated Weed Management of Phalaris minor in Rice-Wheat Cropping Systems in Northern India

by Chun Liu, Makhan Singh Bhullar, Tarundeep Kaur, Jitendra Kumar, Sriyapu Reddy Sreekanth Reddy, Manpreet Singh and Shiv Shankhar Kaundun

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2331; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112331 - 18 Nov 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1962

Abstract

Phalaris minor Retz. (littleseed canarygrass) is the most problematic and herbicide-resistant weed in the rice-wheat cropping system in India. As such, it poses a severe threat to wheat yield and food security. A number of herbicidal and agronomic practices have been identified for [...] Read more.

Phalaris minor Retz. (littleseed canarygrass) is the most problematic and herbicide-resistant weed in the rice-wheat cropping system in India. As such, it poses a severe threat to wheat yield and food security. A number of herbicidal and agronomic practices have been identified for the effective control of P. minor. These include crop rotation, crop establishment methods, herbicide spray technology, sowing time, weed seed harvest and effective herbicide mixtures. A population model of P. minor was built based on the life cycle of the species, herbicide resistance mechanisms and the effects of weed control practices. The model simulated the interactions of these factors and provided the best management recommendations for sustainably controlling this noxious weed species. Model results indicate that integration of chemical and non-chemical control methods was the most effective and sustainable strategy. For example, the integration of a happy seeder (a tractor-mounted mulching and sowing machine) with an effective post-emergence herbicide reduced the probability of weed control failure by 32% compared to the scenario with a rotavator and the same herbicide. Similarly, more conventional crop establishment methods such as a rotavator and conventional tillage could be accompanied by pre- or post-emergence applications of herbicide mixtures. Adoption of good herbicide spray technology and weed seed harvest delayed the onset of resistance evolution by up to four years. Furthermore, effective crop rotation such as the inclusion of sugarcane in place of rice in the summer season reduced the risk of resistance evolution by 31% within the 10 year simulation period. In addition to the scenarios using representative parameter values, the variability of model predictions was investigated based on some field experiments. The model provided a powerful tool for promoting Integrated Weed Management and the sustainable use of herbicides. Pragmatic ways of dealing with uncertainty in model prediction are discussed. Full article

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12 pages, 9865 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Nitrogen Supply on Growth and Nitrogen Utilization in Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.)

by Yang Yang, Wenxin Zha, Kailei Tang, Gang Deng, Guanghui Du and Feihu Liu

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2310; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112310 - 15 Nov 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3218

Abstract

Hemp is a multipurpose crop that is cultivated worldwide for fiber, oil, and cannabinoids. Nitrogen (N) is a key factor for getting a higher production of hemp, but its application is often excessive and results in considerable losses in the soil–plant–water continuum. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Hemp is a multipurpose crop that is cultivated worldwide for fiber, oil, and cannabinoids. Nitrogen (N) is a key factor for getting a higher production of hemp, but its application is often excessive and results in considerable losses in the soil–plant–water continuum. Therefore, a rational N supply is important for increasing N efficiency and crop productivity. The main objective of this paper was to determine the responses of four hemp cultivars to different levels of exogenous-N supply as nutrient solution during the vegetative growing period. The experiment was conducted at Yunnan University in Kunming, China. Yunma 1, Yunma 7, Bamahuoma, and Wanma 1 were used as the experimental materials, and five N supplying levels (1.5, 3.0, 6.0, 12.0, and 24.0 mmol/L NO₃-N in the nutrient solution) were set by using pot culture and adding nutrient solution. The root, stem, and leaf of the plant were sampled for the determination of growth indexes, dry matter and N accumulation and distribution, and physiological indicators. The plant height, stem diameter, plant dry weight, and plant N accumulation of four hemp cultivars were significantly increased with the increase in exogenous-N supply. Root/shoot dry weight ratios, stem mass density, and N use efficiency decreased significantly with the increase in exogenous-N supply. Nitrogen accumulation, chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, and nitrate reductase activity in leaves were increased with the increase in exogenous-N supply. Among the four indexes, the increase in N accumulation was more than the increase in NR activity. The activities of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase in leaves were increased first and then decreased with the increase in exogenous-N supply, with the maximum value at N 6.0 mmol/L, while the content of malondialdehyde in leaves increased significantly when the level of exogenous-N supply exceeded 6.0 mmol/L. These results revealed that increasing the exogenous-N supply could improve the plant growth, dry matter accumulation, and N accumulation in hemp during the vegetative growth period, but N supply should not exceed 6.0 mmol/L. Among four hemp cultivars, Wanma 1 performed well at 6.0 mmol/L N application. Full article

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

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15 pages, 1543 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impact of Corn Cob-Derived Biochar in Altering Soil Quality, Biochemical Status and Improving Maize Growth under Drought Stress

by Liaqat Ali, Natasha Manzoor, Xuqing Li, Muhammad Naveed, Sajid Mahmood Nadeem, Muhammad Rashid Waqas, Muhammad Khalid, Aown Abbas, Temoor Ahmed, Bin Li and Jianli Yan

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2300; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112300 - 13 Nov 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4719

Abstract

Biochar enhances soil fertility by improving the soil physical, chemical and microbiological properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of corn cob-derived biochar on soil enzymatic activity, organic carbon, aggregate stability and soil microbial biomass carbon under drought stress. [...] Read more.

Biochar enhances soil fertility by improving the soil physical, chemical and microbiological properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of corn cob-derived biochar on soil enzymatic activity, organic carbon, aggregate stability and soil microbial biomass carbon under drought stress. Biochar was prepared from crushed corn cobs pyrolyzed at 300 °C and 400 °C and applied at a ratio of 1% (w/w) and 3% (w/w) filled in pots. In each pot, three field capacity (FC) levels, i.e., 100, 70 and 40%, were maintained gravimetrically. Results showed that biochar application improved the growth (plant height and root length) and relative water content in maize leaves under drought stress, while it reduced electrolyte leakage compared to a control treatment. Aggregate stability was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher in biochar amended soil. Moreover, microbial biomass carbon and soil water also increased under drought stress at 70% FC and 40% FC, respectively, where 3% w/w (400 °C) biochar was applied. Among enzymes, β-glucosidase and alkaline phosphatase activity were improved with biochar application. The maximum organic carbon (240%, 246% and 249%, 254% more than control) was calculated in soils where 3% biochar pyrolyzed at 400 °C and 300 °C was mixed with soil, respectively. Similarly, the carbon pool index (CPI) and carbon management index (CMI) were also higher in biochar-amended soil as compared to control treatment. Conclusively, biochar amendment could effectively improve soil quality and maize growth under drought stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant, Soil, Microbe Interactions in Response to Environmental Stress)

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22 pages, 2555 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Field Crop Responses and Management Strategies to Mitigate Soil Salinity in Modern Agriculture: A Review

by Hiba M. Alkharabsheh, Mahmoud F. Seleiman, Omar A. Hewedy, Martin L. Battaglia, Rewaa S. Jalal, Bushra A. Alhammad, Calogero Schillaci, Nawab Ali and Abdullah Al-Doss

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2299; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112299 - 13 Nov 2021

Cited by 69 | Viewed by 5336

Abstract

The productivity of cereal crops under salt stress limits sustainable food production and food security. Barley followed by sorghum better adapts to salinity stress, while wheat and maize are moderately adapted. However, rice is a salt-sensitive crop, and its growth and grain yield [...] Read more.

The productivity of cereal crops under salt stress limits sustainable food production and food security. Barley followed by sorghum better adapts to salinity stress, while wheat and maize are moderately adapted. However, rice is a salt-sensitive crop, and its growth and grain yield are significantly impacted by salinity stress. High soil salinity can reduce water uptake, create osmotic stress in plants and, consequently, oxidative stress. Crops have evolved different tolerance mechanisms, particularly cereals, to mitigate the stressful conditions, i.e., effluxing excessive sodium (Na⁺) or compartmentalizing Na⁺ to vacuoles. Likewise, plants activate an antioxidant defense system to detoxify apoplastic cell wall acidification and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Understanding the response of field crops to salinity stress, including their resistance mechanisms, can help breed adapted varieties with high productivity under unfavourable environmental factors. In contrast, the primary stages of seed germination are more critical to osmotic stress than the vegetative stages. However, salinity stress at the reproductive stage can also decrease crop productivity. Biotechnology approaches are being used to accelerate the development of salt-adapted crops. In addition, hormones and osmolytes application can mitigate the toxicity impact of salts in cereal crops. Therefore, we review the salinity on cereal crops physiology and production, the management strategies to cope with the harmful negative effect on cereal crops physiology and production of salt stress. Full article

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16 pages, 965 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Segmented Colour Feature Extreme Learning Machine: Applications in Agricultural Robotics

by Edmund J. Sadgrove, Greg Falzon, David Miron and David W. Lamb

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2290; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112290 - 12 Nov 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2068

Abstract

This study presents the Segmented Colour Feature Extreme Learning Machine (SCF-ELM). The SCF-ELM is inspired by the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) which is known for its rapid training and inference times. The ELM is therefore an ideal candidate for an ensemble learning algorithm. [...] Read more.

This study presents the Segmented Colour Feature Extreme Learning Machine (SCF-ELM). The SCF-ELM is inspired by the Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) which is known for its rapid training and inference times. The ELM is therefore an ideal candidate for an ensemble learning algorithm. The Colour Feature Extreme Learning Machine (CF-ELM) is used in this study due to its additional ability to extract colour image features. The SCF-ELM is an ensemble learner that utilizes feature mapping via k-means clustering, a decision matrix and majority voting. It has been evaluated on a range of challenging agricultural object classification scenarios including weed, livestock and machinery detection. SCF-ELM model performance results were excellent both in terms of detection, 90 to 99% accuracy, and also inference times, around 0.01(s) per image. The SCF-ELM was able to compete or improve upon established algorithms in its class, indicating its potential for remote computing applications in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Data-Driven Agricultural Innovations)

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23 pages, 2400 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Crop Wild Relatives Crosses: Multi-Location Assessment in Durum Wheat, Barley, and Lentil

by Noureddine El Haddad, Miguel Sanchez-Garcia, Andrea Visioni, Abderrazek Jilal, Rola El Amil, Amadou Tidiane Sall, Wasihun Lagesse, Shiv Kumar and Filippo M. Bassi

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2283; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112283 - 11 Nov 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3801

Abstract

Crop wild relatives (CWR) are a good source of useful alleles for climate change adaptation. Here, 19 durum wheat, 24 barley, and 24 lentil elites incorporating CWR in their pedigrees were yield tested against commercial checks across 19 environments located in Morocco, Ethiopia, [...] Read more.

Crop wild relatives (CWR) are a good source of useful alleles for climate change adaptation. Here, 19 durum wheat, 24 barley, and 24 lentil elites incorporating CWR in their pedigrees were yield tested against commercial checks across 19 environments located in Morocco, Ethiopia, Lebanon, and Senegal. For each crop, the combined analysis of variance showed that genotype (G), environment (E), and genotype x environment (G×E) effects were significant for most of the traits. A selection index combining yield potential (G) and yield stability (G×E) was used to identify six CWR-derived elites for each crop matching or superior to the best check. A regression analysis using a climate matrix revealed that grain yield was mostly influenced by the maximum daily temperature and soil moisture level during the growing stages. These climatic factors were used to define five clusters (i.e., E1 to E5) of mega-environments. The CWR-derived elites significantly outperformed the checks in E1, E2, and E4 for durum wheat, and in E2 for both barley and lentil. The germplasm was also assessed for several food transformation characteristics. For durum wheat, one accession (Zeina) originating from T. araraticum was significantly superior in mixograph score to the best check, and three accessions originating from T. araraticum and T. urartu were superior for Zn concentration. For barley, 21 accessions originating from H. spontaneum were superior to the checks for protein content, six for Zn content, and eight for β-glucan. For lentil, ten accessions originating from Lens orientalis were superior to the check for protein content, five for Zn, and ten for Fe concentration. Hence, the results presented here strongly support the use of CWR in breeding programs of these three dryland crops, both for adaptation to climatic stresses and for value addition for food transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Utilizing Genetic Resources for Agronomic Traits Improvement)

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22 pages, 5923 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Coffee Rust Forecast Systems: Development of a Warning Platform in a Minas Gerais State, Brazil

by Edson Ampélio Pozza, Éder Ribeiro dos Santos, Nilva Alice Gaspar, Ximena Maira de Souza Vilela, Marcelo de Carvalho Alves and Mário Roberto Nogueira Colares

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2284; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112284 - 11 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3208

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a warning system platform for coffee rust incidence fifteen days in advance, as well as validating and regionalizing multiple linear regression models based on meteorological variables. The models developed by Pinto were validated in five counties. Experiments were [...] Read more.

This study aimed to develop a warning system platform for coffee rust incidence fifteen days in advance, as well as validating and regionalizing multiple linear regression models based on meteorological variables. The models developed by Pinto were validated in five counties. Experiments were set up in a randomized block design with five treatments and five replications. The experimental plot had six lines with 20 central plants of useful area. Assessments of coffee rust incidence were carried out fortnightly. The data collected from automatic stations were adjusted in new multiple linear regression models (MLRM) for five counties. Meteorological variables were lagged concerning disease assessment dates. After the adjustments, two models were selected and calculated for five counties, later there was an expansion to include ten more counties and 35 properties to validate these models. The result showed that the adjusted models of 15–30 days before rust incidence for Carmo do Rio Claro and Nova Resende counties were promising. These models were the best at forecasting disease 15 days in advance. With these models and the geoinformation systems, the warning platform and interface will be improved in the coffee grower region of the south and savannas of the Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Status and Management of Coffee Rust Disease)

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24 pages, 5280 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization for Trajectory Planning of Fruit Picking Manipulator

by Xiaoman Cao, Hansheng Yan, Zhengyan Huang, Si Ai, Yongjun Xu, Renxuan Fu and Xiangjun Zou

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2286; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112286 - 11 Nov 2021

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 3683

Abstract

Stable, efficient and lossless fruit picking has always been a difficult problem, perplexing the development of fruit automatic picking technology. In order to effectively solve this technical problem, this paper establishes a multi-objective trajectory model of the manipulator and proposes an improved multi-objective [...] Read more.

Stable, efficient and lossless fruit picking has always been a difficult problem, perplexing the development of fruit automatic picking technology. In order to effectively solve this technical problem, this paper establishes a multi-objective trajectory model of the manipulator and proposes an improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm (represented as GMOPSO). The algorithm combines the methods of mutation operator, annealing factor and feedback mechanism to improve the diversity of the population on the basis of meeting the stable motion, avoiding the local optimal solution and accelerating the convergence speed. By adopting the average optimal evaluation method, the robot arm motion trajectory has been testified to constructively fulfill the picking standards of stability, efficiency and lossless. The performance of the algorithm is verified by ZDT1~ZDT3 benchmark functions, and its competitive advantages and disadvantages with other multi-objective evolutionary algorithms are further elaborated. In this paper, the algorithm is simulated and verified by practical experiments with the optimization objectives of time, energy consumption and pulsation. The simulation results show that the solution set of the algorithm is close to the real Pareto frontier. The optimal solution obtained by the average optimal evaluation method is as follows: the time is 34.20 s, the energy consumption is 61.89 °/S2 and the pulsation is 72.18 °/S3. The actual test results show that the trajectory can effectively complete fruit picking, the average picking time is 25.5 s, and the success rate is 96.67%. The experimental results show that the trajectory of the manipulator obtained by GMOPSO algorithm can make the manipulator run smoothly and facilitates efficient, stable and nondestructive picking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advances of Agricultural Robotics in Sustainable Agriculture 4.0)

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17 pages, 1409 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Coupling Remote Sensing Data and AquaCrop Model for Simulation of Winter Wheat Growth under Rainfed and Irrigated Conditions in a Mediterranean Environment

by Marie Therese Abi Saab, Razane El Alam, Ihab Jomaa, Sleiman Skaf, Salim Fahed, Rossella Albrizio and Mladen Todorovic

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2265; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112265 - 9 Nov 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3151

Abstract

The coupling of remote sensing technology and crop growth models represents a promising approach to support crop yield prediction and irrigation management. In this study, five vegetation indices were derived from the Copernicus-Sentinel 2 satellite to investigate their performance monitoring winter wheat growth [...] Read more.

The coupling of remote sensing technology and crop growth models represents a promising approach to support crop yield prediction and irrigation management. In this study, five vegetation indices were derived from the Copernicus-Sentinel 2 satellite to investigate their performance monitoring winter wheat growth in a Mediterranean environment in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley. Among those indices, the fraction of canopy cover was integrated into the AquaCrop model to simulate biomass and yield of wheat grown under rainfed conditions and fully irrigated regimes. The experiment was conducted during three consecutive growing seasons (from 2017 to 2019), characterized by different precipitation patterns. The AquaCrop model was calibrated and validated for different water regimes, and its performance was tested when coupled with remote sensing canopy cover. The results showed a good fit between measured canopy cover and Leaf Area Index (LAI) data and those derived from Sentinel 2 images. The R² coefficient was 0.79 for canopy cover and 0.77 for LAI. Moreover, the regressions were fitted to relate biomass with Sentinel 2 vegetation indices. In descending order of R², the indices were ranked: Fractional Vegetation Cover (FVC), LAI, the fraction of Absorbed Photosynthetically Active Radiation (fAPAR), the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI). Notably, FVC and LAI were highly correlated with biomass. The results of the AquaCrop calibration showed that the modeling efficiency values, NSE, were 0.99 for well-watered treatments and 0.95 for rainfed conditions, confirming the goodness of fit between measured and simulated values. The validation results confirmed that the simulated yield varied from 2.59 to 5.36 t ha⁻¹, while the measured yield varied from 3.08 to 5.63 t ha⁻¹ for full irrigation and rainfed treatments. After integrating the canopy cover into AquaCrop, the % of deviation of simulated and measured variables was reduced. The Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) for yield ranged between 0.08 and 0.69 t ha⁻¹ before coupling and between 0.04 and 0.42 t ha⁻¹ after integration. This result confirmed that the presented integration framework represents a promising method to improve the prediction of wheat crop growth in Mediterranean areas. Further studies are needed before being applied on a larger scale. Full article

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

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18 pages, 864 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Use of Temperate Tannin Containing Forage Legumes to Improve Sustainability in Forage–Livestock Production

by Sebastian P. Lagrange, Jennifer W. MacAdam and Juan J. Villalba

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2264; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112264 - 9 Nov 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3499

Abstract

Greenhouse gas emissions from ruminant livestock production systems contribute significantly to the environmental footprint of agriculture. Emissions are lower for feedlot systems than for grass-based systems primarily because of the extra time required for grass-finished cattle to reach slaughter weight. In contrast, legume [...] Read more.

Greenhouse gas emissions from ruminant livestock production systems contribute significantly to the environmental footprint of agriculture. Emissions are lower for feedlot systems than for grass-based systems primarily because of the extra time required for grass-finished cattle to reach slaughter weight. In contrast, legume forages are of greater quality than grasses, which enhances intake and food conversion efficiencies, leading to improvements in production and reductions in environmental impacts compared with forage grasses. In addition, the presence of certain bioactives in legumes such as condensed tannins (CT) enhance the efficiency of energy and protein use in ruminants relative to grasses and other feeds and forages. Grazing tannin-containing legumes also reduce the incidence of bloat and improve meat quality. Synergies among nutrients and bioactives when animals graze diverse legume pastures have the potential to enhance these benefits. Thus, a diversity of legumes in feeding systems may lead to more economically, environmentally, and socially sustainable beef production than grass monocultures or feedlot rations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Paradigms in Sustainable Forage-Livestock Production Systems)

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18 pages, 5959 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Deficit Irrigation Scheduling on Water Use, Gas Exchange, Yield, and Fruit Quality of Date Palm

by Maged Mohammed, Abdelkader Sallam, Muhammad Munir and Hassan Ali-Dinar

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2256; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112256 - 8 Nov 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2898

Abstract

Water scarcity is very common in the arid region due to the low yearly rainfall. The cost of water for agricultural usage is extremely high in dry locations. Date palm is a high water-demanding tree throughout the year in arid regions. Therefore, the [...] Read more.

Water scarcity is very common in the arid region due to the low yearly rainfall. The cost of water for agricultural usage is extremely high in dry locations. Date palm is a high water-demanding tree throughout the year in arid regions. Therefore, the application of deficit irrigation strategies for date palm cultivation may significantly contribute to conserving irrigation water. The present study aimed to assess the effects of controlled deficit irrigation using two modern micro-irrigation systems on water use efficiency (WUE), gas exchange, fruit yield, and quality of date palm (Khalas cv.). The irrigation systems included drip irrigation (DI) and subsurface irrigation (SI) systems. The study was conducted during the 2020 and 2021 seasons at the Date Palm Research Center of Excellence, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia. The meteorological variables of the study area were real-time monitored using cloud-based IoT (Internet of Things) to calculate the evapotranspiration reference (ETo) and control the irrigation scheduling. Three irrigation treatments (50, 75, and 100% ETc) were applied using DI and SI systems compared with the traditional surface bubbler irrigation (Control). The actual applied water at the deficit irrigation treatments of 50, 75, and 100% ETc were 27.28 ± 0.06, 44.14 ± 1.07, and 55.55 ± 0.37 m³ palm⁻¹, respectively. At all deficit irrigation treatments, the leaf chlorophyll and gas exchange were significantly higher in the SI compared to the DI system. The yield of date palms did not differ significantly between the control and SI systems at both the level of 100 and 75% ETc. The WUE under the SI (1.09 kg m⁻³) was significantly higher than the DI system (0.52 kg m⁻³) at the 50% level. There was no significant difference regarding the fruit quality parameters between SI at 50% ETc and control at 100% ETc. Therefore, adopting deficit irrigation strategies using the SI system at 50% ETc level throughout the year could be suggested for date palm irrigation to save water, improve WUE, and maintain fruit quality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Woody Crop Responses to Water Shortage: Impacts on Plant Physiology, Yield and Fruit Composition)

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27 pages, 1407 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Understanding the Impact of Drought in Coffea Genotypes: Transcriptomic Analysis Supports a Common High Resilience to Moderate Water Deficit but a Genotype Dependent Sensitivity to Severe Water Deficit

by Isabel Fernandes, Isabel Marques, Octávio S. Paulo, Dora Batista, Fábio L. Partelli, Fernando C. Lidon, Fábio M. DaMatta, José C. Ramalho and Ana I. Ribeiro-Barros

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2255; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112255 - 8 Nov 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2694

Abstract

Water scarcity is the most significant factor limiting coffee production, although some cultivars can still have important drought tolerance. This study analyzed leaf transcriptomes of two coffee cultivars with contrasting physiological responses, Coffea canephora cv. CL153 and Coffea. arabica cv. Icatu, subjected to [...] Read more.

Water scarcity is the most significant factor limiting coffee production, although some cultivars can still have important drought tolerance. This study analyzed leaf transcriptomes of two coffee cultivars with contrasting physiological responses, Coffea canephora cv. CL153 and Coffea. arabica cv. Icatu, subjected to moderate (MWD) or severe water deficits (SWD). We found that MWD had a low impact compared with SWD, where 10% of all genes in Icatu and 17% in CL153 reacted to drought, being mainly down-regulated upon stress. Drought triggered a genotype-specific response involving the up-regulation of reticuline oxidase genes in CL153 and heat shock proteins in Icatu. Responsiveness to drought also included desiccation protectant genes, but primarily, aspartic proteases, especially in CL153. A total of 83 Transcription Factors were found engaged in response to drought, mainly up-regulated, especially under SWD. Together with the enrollment of 49 phosphatases and 272 protein kinases, results suggest the involvement of ABA-signaling processes in drought acclimation. The integration of these findings with complementing physiological and biochemical studies reveals that both genotypes are more resilient to moderate drought than previously thought and suggests the existence of post-transcriptional mechanisms modulating the response to drought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Untapping the Potential of Neglected and Underutilized Species to Improve Food Security)

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27 pages, 1304 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Recent Updates on the Conversion of Pineapple Waste (Ananas comosus) to Value-Added Products, Future Perspectives and Challenges

by Adila Fazliyana Aili Hamzah, Muhammad Hazwan Hamzah, Hasfalina Che Man, Nur Syakina Jamali, Shamsul Izhar Siajam and Muhammad Heikal Ismail

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2221; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112221 - 2 Nov 2021

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 26073

Abstract

Pineapple waste accounts for a significant part of waste accumulated in landfill which will further contribute to the release of greenhouse gases. With the rising pineapple demands worldwide, the abundance of pineapple waste and its disposal techniques are a major concern. Exploiting the [...] Read more.

Pineapple waste accounts for a significant part of waste accumulated in landfill which will further contribute to the release of greenhouse gases. With the rising pineapple demands worldwide, the abundance of pineapple waste and its disposal techniques are a major concern. Exploiting the pineapple waste into valuable products could be the most sustainable way of managing these residues due to their useful properties and compositions. In this review, we concentrated on producing useful products from on-farm pineapple waste and processing waste. Bioenergy is the most suitable option for green energy to encounter the increasing demand for renewable energy and promotes sustainable development for agricultural waste. The presence of protease enzyme in pineapple waste makes it a suitable raw material for bromelain production. The high cellulose content present in pineapple waste has a potential for the production of cellulose nanocrystals, biodegradable packaging and bio-adsorbent, and can potentially be applied in the polymer, food and textile industries. Other than that, it is also a suitable substrate for the production of wine, vinegar and organic acid due to its high sugar content, especially from the peel wastes. The potentials of bioenergy production through biofuels (bioethanol, biobutanol and biodiesel) and biogas (biomethane and biohydrogen) were also assessed. The commercial use of pineapples is also highlighted. Despite the opportunities, future perspectives and challenges concerning pineapple waste utilisation to value-added goods were also addressed. Pineapple waste conversions have shown to reduce waste generation, and the products derived from the conversion would support the waste-to-wealth concept. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Production Systems and Material Utilization of Plant Biomass)

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14 pages, 8779 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of Monitoring Robot System for Tomato Fruits in Hydroponic Greenhouses

by Dasom Seo, Byeong-Hyo Cho and Kyoung-Chul Kim

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2211; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112211 - 31 Oct 2021

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4921

Abstract

Crop monitoring is highly important in terms of the efficient and stable performance of tasks such as planting, spraying, and harvesting, and for this reason, several studies are being conducted to develop and improve crop monitoring robots. In addition, the applications of deep [...] Read more.

Crop monitoring is highly important in terms of the efficient and stable performance of tasks such as planting, spraying, and harvesting, and for this reason, several studies are being conducted to develop and improve crop monitoring robots. In addition, the applications of deep learning algorithms are increasing in the development of agricultural robots since deep learning algorithms that use convolutional neural networks have been proven to show outstanding performance in image classification, segmentation, and object detection. However, most of these applications are focused on the development of harvesting robots, and thus, there are only a few studies that improve and develop monitoring robots through the use of deep learning. For this reason, we aimed to develop a real-time robot monitoring system for the generative growth of tomatoes. The presented method detects tomato fruits grown in hydroponic greenhouses using the Faster R-CNN (region-based convolutional neural network). In addition, we sought to select a color model that was robust to external light, and we used hue values to develop an image-based maturity standard for tomato fruits; furthermore, the developed maturity standard was verified through comparison with expert classification. Finally, the number of tomatoes was counted using a centroid-based tracking algorithm. We trained the detection model using an open dataset and tested the whole system in real-time in a hydroponic greenhouse. A total of 53 tomato fruits were used to verify the developed system, and the developed system achieved 88.6% detection accuracy when completely obscured fruits not captured by the camera were included. When excluding obscured fruits, the system’s accuracy was 90.2%. For the maturity classification, we conducted qualitative evaluations with the assistance of experts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Computer Vision on Quality Monitoring of Agricultural Products)

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45 pages, 12857 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of the Most Common and Economically Important Diseases That Undermine the Cultivation of Tomato Crop in the Mediterranean Basin

by Stefano Panno, Salvatore Davino, Andrea Giovanni Caruso, Sofia Bertacca, Ana Crnogorac, Ana Mandić, Emanuela Noris and Slavica Matić

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2188; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112188 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 105 | Viewed by 19729

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), family Solanaceae, has become in the past fifty years one of the most important and extensively grown horticultural crops in the Mediterranean region and throughout the world. In 2019, more than 180 million tonnes of tomato have [...] Read more.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), family Solanaceae, has become in the past fifty years one of the most important and extensively grown horticultural crops in the Mediterranean region and throughout the world. In 2019, more than 180 million tonnes of tomato have been produced worldwide, out of which around 42 million tonnes in Mediterranean countries. Due to its genetic properties, tomato is afflicted by numerous plant diseases induced by fungal, bacterial, phytoplasma, virus, and viroid pathogens. Not only is its genetic inheritance of great importance to the management of the numerous tomato pathogens, but equally as important are also the present climate changes, the recently revised phytopathological control measures, and the globalization of the seed industry. Thus, the recognition of symptoms and the knowledge of the distribution and spread of the disease and of the methods for early detection of the pathogens are the major prerequisites for a successful management of the disease. In this review, we will describe the main tomato pathogens in the Mediterranean area that impact mostly the tomato yield and provide the current and perspective measures necessary for their successful management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Plant Pathology in Horticultural and Floricultural Crops)

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15 pages, 1317 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Labile Soil Organic Matter Pools Are Influenced by 45 Years of Applied Farmyard Manure and Mineral Nitrogen in the Wheat—Pearl Millet Cropping System in the Sub-Tropical Condition

by Ranjan Laik, B. H. Kumara, Biswajit Pramanick, Santosh Kumar Singh, Nidhi, Majid Alhomrani, Ahmed Gaber and Akbar Hossain

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2190; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112190 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 1950

Abstract

Labile soil organic matter pools (LSOMp) are believed to be the most sensitive indicator of soil quality when it is changed rapidly with varied management practices. In sub-tropical climates, the turnover period of labile pools is quicker than in temperate climates. Organic amendments [...] Read more.

Labile soil organic matter pools (LSOMp) are believed to be the most sensitive indicator of soil quality when it is changed rapidly with varied management practices. In sub-tropical climates, the turnover period of labile pools is quicker than in temperate climates. Organic amendments are of importance in improve the LSOMp for a temperate climate and may be helpful in sub-tropical climates as well. Hence, the status of LSOMp was studied in long term farmyard manure (FYM) amended soils under wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) cropping systems in sub-tropical arid conditions. At the same time, we also attempt to determine the impact of mineral nitrogen (N) application in these pools. In this study, dissolved organic matter (DOM), microbial biomass (MB), and light fraction (LF) were isolated in the management practices involving different modes and rates of FYM applications along with the application of nitrogenous fertilizer. C and N contents of the labile pools were analyzed in the soil samples at different periods after FYM applications. Among the different pools, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were changed significantly with different rates and modes of FYM application and mineral N application. Application of FYM at 15 Mg ha⁻¹ in both the seasons + 120 kg ha⁻¹ mineral N resulted in significantly higher MBC and DOC as compared to all of the other treatments. This treatment also resulted in 13.75% and 5.8% more MBC and DOC, respectively, as compared to the amount of MBC and DOC content in the control plot where FYM and mineral N were not applied. Comparing the labile organic matter pools of 45 years of FYM amendment with initial values, it was found that the dissolved organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon, and light fraction carbon were increased up to the maximum extent of about 600, 1200, and 700 times, respectively. The maximum amount of DOM (562 mg kg⁻¹ of DOC and 70.1 mg kg⁻¹ of DON), MB (999 mg kg⁻¹ of MBC and 158.4 mg kg⁻¹ of MBN), LF (2.61 g kg⁻¹ of LFC and 154.6 g kg⁻¹ of LFN) were found in case of both season applied FYM as compared to either summer or winter applied FYM. Concerning the different rates of FYM application, 15 Mg ha⁻¹ FYM also resulted in a significantly higher amount of DOM, MB, and LF as compared to other FYM rates (i.e., 5 Mg ha⁻¹ and 10 Mg ha⁻¹). Amongst different pools, MB was found to be the most sensitive to management practices in this study. From this study, it was found that the long-term FYM amendment in sub-tropical soil along with mineral N application can improve the LSOMp of the soil. Thus, it can be recommended that the application of FYM at 15 Mg ha⁻¹ in summer and winter with +120 kg ha⁻¹ mineral N can improve SOC and its labile pools in subtropical arid soils. Future studies on LSOMp can be carried out by considering different cropping systems of subtropical climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Tillage, Cover Crop and Crop Rotation on Soil)

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25 pages, 9245 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Growth, Yield, Quality, and Phytochemical Behavior of Three Cultivars of Quinoa in Response to Moringa and Azolla Extracts under Organic Farming Conditions

by Rasha S. El-Serafy, Abdel-Nasser A. El-Sheshtawy, Usama A. Abd El-Razek, Ahmed F. Abd El-Hakim, Mostafa M. A. Hasham, Rokayya Sami, Ebtihal Khojah and Amina A. M. Al-Mushhin

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2186; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112186 - 29 Oct 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2488

Abstract

Increased demand for quinoa as a functional food has resulted in more quinoa-growing areas and initiatives to increase grain production, particularly in organic agriculture. Quinoa seeds are a superfood with incredible nutritional benefits. They are abundant in secondary metabolites with significant medicinal activity. [...] Read more.

Increased demand for quinoa as a functional food has resulted in more quinoa-growing areas and initiatives to increase grain production, particularly in organic agriculture. Quinoa seeds are a superfood with incredible nutritional benefits. They are abundant in secondary metabolites with significant medicinal activity. This report was consequently performed to investigate whether Azolla fliculoides (AE) or moringa leaf extract (MLE) foliar spray can be supplemented as organic extracts to enhance quinoa growth and productivity under organic farming. Three quinoa cultivars, KVL–SRA2 (C1), Chipaya (C2), and Q–37 (C3), were grown organically and subjected to foliar spraying with AE or MLE at a 20% ratio, as well as their combination (AE+MLE). Plant performance of the three cultivars was significantly enhanced by MLE or AE applications as compared with control plants. The highest outputs were obtained by AE+MLE treatment, which significantly increased the seed yield by about 29% as compared with untreated plants. Seed quality exhibited a marked increase in response to AE+MLE that was superior in this regard as it showed higher protein, carbohydrates, saponine, tannins, phenolics, and flavonoids content. The C3-cultivar demonstrated the highest productivity, saponine, and flavonoids levels as compared to the other cultivars. Overall, the current study indicated that foliar spray with AE+MLE could enhance growth and productivity as well as quality and pharmaceutical active ingredients of quinoa cultivars grown under farming conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biostimulants and Bioeffectors on Crop Production)

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14 pages, 16063 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Determination of Genetic Distance, Genome Size and Chromosome Numbers to Support Breeding in Ornamental Lavandula Species

by Ewout Van Oost, Leen Leus, Bert De Rybel and Katrijn Van Laere

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2173; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112173 - 28 Oct 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2420

Abstract

Knowledge of phylogenetic relatedness and cytogenetic characteristics can facilitate breeding programs and interspecific hybridization in ornamentals. In this study genetic relationships, genome sizes and chromosome numbers were determined in a collection of 82 lavender genotypes, including 15 hybrids. Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) [...] Read more.

Knowledge of phylogenetic relatedness and cytogenetic characteristics can facilitate breeding programs and interspecific hybridization in ornamentals. In this study genetic relationships, genome sizes and chromosome numbers were determined in a collection of 82 lavender genotypes, including 15 hybrids. Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) marker analysis revealed 5 clusters, corresponding to the sections Lavandula, Stoechas, Dentatae, Pterostoechas and Subnudae. Genome sizes varied between 0.76 ± 0.02 pg 2C⁻¹ and 4.80 ± 0.06 pg 2C⁻¹ and chromosome numbers ranged from 2n = 22 to 2n = 100. Genome sizes of hybrids were intermediate to the progenitors genome sizes. All analyzed hybrid genotypes were characterized by even chromosome numbers, with 2n = 48 or 50. Using Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) separate hybrid clusters were identified between the progenitor species clusters. Polyploidy and/or aneuploidy was observed in two hybrids genotypes: L. × intermedia ‘Heavenly Angel’ (2n = 100) and L. × heterophylla ‘Big Boy James’ (2n = 66). Results obtained in this study can be used to predict cross compatibility among different species, thus enabling targeted breeding towards the creation of new improved Lavandula cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultivated Ornamental Plants: Breeding Aspects)

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19 pages, 1189 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Nitrogen Release in Soils Amended with Different Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers under Contrasting Moisture Regimes: A Laboratory Incubation Study

by Shihab Uddin, Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Mohammad Mofizur Rahman Jahangir, Mohammad Mojibur Rahman, Sabry Hassan, Mohamed M. Hassan, Ali A. Abo-Shosha, Atef F. Ahmed and Mohammad Mahmudur Rahman

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2163; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112163 - 27 Oct 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4411

Abstract

Understanding nitrogen (N) release patterns and kinetics is a key challenge for improving N use efficiency in any agroecosystem. An incubation experiment was done to study the N release pattern and kinetics of contrasting soils amended with compost (CO), poultry manure (PM), rice [...] Read more.

Understanding nitrogen (N) release patterns and kinetics is a key challenge for improving N use efficiency in any agroecosystem. An incubation experiment was done to study the N release pattern and kinetics of contrasting soils amended with compost (CO), poultry manure (PM), rice husk biochar (RHB), poultry manure biochar (PMB) and cowdung (CD) combined with chemical fertilizer (integrated plant nutrient system, IPNS approach) under two moisture regimes, viz. field capacity (FC) and continuous standing water (CSW) at 25 °C for 120 days. Our results revealed that NH₄⁺-N was the dominant under CSW conditions, whereas NO₃⁻-N was dominant under FC conditions. Net mineral N data fitted well to the first order kinetic model. Both N release potential (N₀) and rate constant (k) were greater in acidic soil than those of charland soil. The maximum N release varied between 24.90–76.29% of input depending on soil type and moisture status. N mineralization was strongly correlated with urea N application. PM and PMB mineralized in all soil and moisture conditions whereas N immobilization was observed in the case of RHB. N mineralization was strongly correlated with urea N application. Gaseous N losses were different for the organic amendments exhibiting more gaseous N losses in PM, CD and CO based IPNS whereas the lowest gaseous N loss was observed in PMB based IPNS. Biochar based IPNS increased soil pH in all conditions. Thus, the present study suggests that N release depends on soil type, soil moisture and type of organic amendment. However, CO, PM and CD based IPNS can be recommended for both acidic and charland soils in terms of N release as short duration crops will suffer from N deficiency if biochar based IPNS is used in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Recycling: Reduction in the Application of Mineral Fertilizers by Optimization of the Organic Wastes)

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18 pages, 5627 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Mitigation of Cadmium Induced Oxidative Stress by Using Organic Amendments to Improve the Growth and Yield of Mash Beans [Vigna mungo (L.)]

by Muhammad Umer Chattha, Warda Arif, Imran Khan, Walid Soufan, Muhammad Bilal Chattha, Muhammad Umair Hassan, Najeeb Ullah, Ayman El Sabagh and Sameer H. Qari

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2152; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112152 - 27 Oct 2021

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 2673

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd) stress is a serious environmental hazard that has devastating impacts on plant growth and productivity. Moreover, the entrance of Cd into the human food chain by eating Cd-contaminated food also poses serious health issues. Organic amendments (OA) possess an excellent potential [...] Read more.

Cadmium (Cd) stress is a serious environmental hazard that has devastating impacts on plant growth and productivity. Moreover, the entrance of Cd into the human food chain by eating Cd-contaminated food also poses serious health issues. Organic amendments (OA) possess an excellent potential to reduce the adverse impacts of Cd stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the potential of different OA in improving the mash beans growth and yield grown under Cd-contaminated soil. The soil was spiked with different concentrations of Cd (0, 10 and 20 mg/kg) and subjected to different OA, i.e., control, cow manure (5%), sugarcane press mud (5%) and a combination of cow manure (2.5%) and sugarcane press mud (2.5%). Results indicated that Cd stress induced a significant reduction in growth and yield traits, leaf water status, photosynthetic pigments, protein accumulation and anti-oxidant activities. However, the application of OA appreciably reduced the Cd-induced toxic effects and caused a significant increase in growth and yield. The application of 5% sugarcane press mud remained the top performer and it increased the mash bean growth and yield through improved photosynthetic pigments, leaf water status (56%) and reduced Cd uptake (18%), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) production (38.52%), electrolyte leakage (EL) (42.13%) malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation (55.88%) and increased accumulation of soluble protein (60.15%) and free amino acids (54%) through improved activities of anti-oxidant enzymes. Therefore, these findings suggested that the application of sugarcane press mud enhanced the growth and yield through reduced Cd accumulation, enhanced photosynthetic pigments, leaf water status, protein and amino accumulation and reduced H₂O₂, EL and MDA accumulation through a stronger anti-oxidant defense system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physio–Devo of Source–Sink Relationship Underlying Abiotic Stress Resilience in Crop Plants)

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18 pages, 781 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

HPLC/MS Phytochemical Profiling with Antioxidant Activities of Echium humile Desf. Extracts: ADMET Prediction and Computational Study Targeting Human Peroxiredoxin 5 Receptor

by Kaïss Aouadi, Hafedh Hajlaoui, Soumaya Arraouadi, Siwar Ghannay, Mejdi Snoussi and Adel Kadri

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2165; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112165 - 27 Oct 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2784

Abstract

Plant-based antioxidants such as polyphenols have gained significance in primary health care needs, due to their potential and therapeutic use in modern medicine. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the effect of solvents on extraction yield, polyphenolics, phytoconstituents [...] Read more.

Plant-based antioxidants such as polyphenols have gained significance in primary health care needs, due to their potential and therapeutic use in modern medicine. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate, for the first time, the effect of solvents on extraction yield, polyphenolics, phytoconstituents and antioxidant properties of various extracts (aqueous, methanol, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, hexane) of Echium humile Desf. (E. humile Desf.) through in vitro and in silico studies. Statistically, among the various solvents, both methanol (443.05 ± 0.50 mg GAE/g extract) and aqueous (440.59 ± 0.50 mg GAE/g extract) extracts displayed equipotent and highest total phenolics content (TPC), while dichloromethane extract had the maximum total flavonoid content (TFC) (151.69 ± 0.60 mg QE/g extract), total flavonol content (TFlC) (97.39 ± 0.19 mg QE/g extract) and total carotenoids content (TCC) (537.85 ± 5.06 mg β-CE/g). Meanwhile, the highest total condensed tannin content (TCTC) was recorded together with hexane (131.50 ± 0.1 mg GAE/g extract) and dichloromethane (125.74 ± 5.72 GAE/g extract) extracts. The results of antioxidant studies revealed that ethyl acetate extract exhibited a potent scavenging effect through 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH^•) (IC₅₀ = 17.25 ± 1.76 µg/mL) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS^•+) (1433.30 ± 1.78 µg/mL), while dichloromethane extract displayed significant (p < 0.05) ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) activity (375.00 ± 0.02 µg/mL) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (1999.00 ± 2.05 µg AAE/g). In addition, the quantification of the polyphenolics content of the most active E. humile Desf. extract, ethyl acetate has been assessed by HPLC/MS, leading to the identification of p-coumaric, trans-ferulic acids and cirsiliol as major constituents. Additionally, molecular docking analysis showed that among the selected phytocompounds, naringin (−7.0 kcal/mol) followed by 1,3-di-O-caffeoyquinic acid (−6.6 kcal/mol), rosmarinic acid (−6.6 kcal/mol), rutin (−6.5 kcal/mol) and apigenin-7-O-glucoside (−6.5 kcal/mol) showed the lowest binding potential. Furthermore, ADME and toxicity parameters justify that identified compounds from ethyl acetate extract are safer to replace the synthetic drugs with side effects. The obtained results can provide valuable information on the medical and therapeutic potential use of E. humile Desf. as a potent antioxidant agent to improve immunity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants)

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12 pages, 2642 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Contrary to Red, Blue Monochromatic Light Improves the Bioactive Compound Content in Broccoli Sprouts

by Li Yang, Dimitrios Fanourakis, Georgios Tsaniklidis, Kun Li, Qichang Yang and Tao Li

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2139; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112139 - 26 Oct 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2182

Abstract

Broccoli sprouts are rich in health-promoting bioactive compounds. Their content depends on both cultivation light quality and temperature. However, these effects have been previously addressed in isolation. Here, the dual inputs of cultivation light quality [blue (B), red (R), mixture of R and [...] Read more.

Broccoli sprouts are rich in health-promoting bioactive compounds. Their content depends on both cultivation light quality and temperature. However, these effects have been previously addressed in isolation. Here, the dual inputs of cultivation light quality [blue (B), red (R), mixture of R and B (R+B), mixture of R and UVA (R+UVA)] and air temperature (15, 19, and 23 °C) on determining growth, external quality, and the cotyledon and hypocotyl content of five major bioactive compounds were investigated. The carbohydrate status at harvest and postharvest ratio of variable to maximum fluorescence (F_v/F_m) were also assessed. Hypocotyl length was generally enhanced under monochromatic light (R or B) and elevated temperature. Total phenolic, total flavonoid, and glucoraphanin contents were generally higher in cotyledon as compared to hypocotyl. Hypocotyl anthocyanin, total phenolic, total flavonoid, and ascorbic acid contents were generally enhanced by R+B, and were decreased by R. Cotyledon content in these metabolites was generally stimulated by B, and reduced under R or R+UVA. Temperature affected metabolite content depending on the metabolite, organ, and light quality. Lower temperatures, R (23 °C) or R+UVA (15, 19, and 23 °C) were associated with decreased postharvest F_v/F_m. In conclusion, low cultivation temperature (<23 °C), as well as R or R+UVA ought to be avoided. Instead, B and R+B are suitable, with B being preferable, owing to better external quality and enhanced metabolite content in cotyledon which generally holds higher content than hypocotyl. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends in Agri-Food Sector: Environmental, Economic and Social Perspectives)

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17 pages, 3020 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Yield Stability and Genotype Environment Interaction of Water Deficit Stress Tolerant Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczak) Genotypes of Bangladesh

by Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Bikash Chandra Sarker, Mohammad Ashraful Alam, Talha Javed, Mohammad Jahangir Alam, Mohammad Shahin Uz Zaman, Mohammad Golam Azam, Rubab Shabbir, Ali Raza, Muhammad Habib-ur-Rahman, Eldessoky S. Dessoky and Mohammad Sohidul Islam

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2136; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112136 - 25 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2562

Abstract

Water deficit stress is a critical abiotic constraint to mung bean production that affects plant growth and development and finally reduces crop yield. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at five diverse environments using four water stress-tolerant genotypes, namely BARI Mung-8, BMX-08010-2, BMX-010015, [...] Read more.

Water deficit stress is a critical abiotic constraint to mung bean production that affects plant growth and development and finally reduces crop yield. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted at five diverse environments using four water stress-tolerant genotypes, namely BARI Mung-8, BMX-08010-2, BMX-010015, and BMX-08009-7, along with two popular cultivated varieties (check) of BARI Mung-6 and BARI Mung-7 to evaluate more stable tolerant genotypes across the country. Stability analysis was performed based on the grain yield. The combined analysis of variance showed significant variations among genotypes, environments, and their interactions. The AMMI analysis of variance indicated that genotype accounted for 91% of the total sum of squares for grain yield, followed by genotype × environment interaction (5%), and environment (4%). Partitioning of interaction indicated that the first three interaction principal components (IPCA1–IPCA3) were highly significant (p ≤ 0.01). Using these significant IPCAs, AMMI stability parameters and non-parameter indices BMX-010015 was found stable across the environment based on yield traits and grain yield. The BMX-08010-2 genotype also showed significant regression coefficient (bi) more than unity, and non-significant deviation from regression (S²di) values, indicating suitable for a favorable environment considering grain yield. So, based on the stability analysis (Eberhart and Russell), additive main effects, and multiplicative interactions (AMMI) analysis, the BMX-010015 and BMX-08010-2 could be suitable for having tolerance to water deficit stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genetic Improvement of Crop Drought Tolerance)

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32 pages, 4230 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Niche Shifts, Hybridization, Polyploidy and Geographic Parthenogenesis in Western North American Hawthorns (Crataegus subg. Sanguineae, Rosaceae)

by Timothy A. Dickinson, Brigitte Xueqi Yan, Shery Han and Mehdi Zarrei

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2133; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112133 - 25 Oct 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2595

Abstract

We compare biogeographic and morphological parameters of two agamic complexes of western North American hawthorns so as to evaluate possible explanations of the differences in range between sexually reproducing taxa and their apomictic sister taxa. We have documented range, breeding system, morphology, leaf [...] Read more.

We compare biogeographic and morphological parameters of two agamic complexes of western North American hawthorns so as to evaluate possible explanations of the differences in range between sexually reproducing taxa and their apomictic sister taxa. We have documented range, breeding system, morphology, leaf vascular architecture, and niche breadth in these hawthorns, for which phylogenetic relationships and ploidy levels are known. Species distribution data from herbarium specimens and online databases were analyzed in order to compare ranges and climate niches described by bioclimatic variables. Flow cytometry documented ploidy level and breeding system. Voucher specimens provided morphometric data that were analyzed using uni- and multivariate methods. Members of two black-fruited taxonomic sections of Crataegus subg. Sanguineae (sections Douglasianae, Salignae) have previously been identified as hybrids. They are presumptively self-fertile polyploids with pseudogamous gametophytic apomixis. Their morphologies, geographic ranges, and niche characteristics resemble those of their diploid, sexual parent or are intermediate between them and those of their other parent, one or both of two partially sympatric tetraploid apomicts in red-fruited C. subg. Americanae with much wider distributions. Comparing sections Douglasianae and Salignae suggests that geographic parthenogenesis (larger range sizes in apomicts, compared to sexually reproducing taxa) may have less to do with adaptation than it does with reproductive assurance in the pseudogamously apomictic and self-compatible hybrids. Greater climate niche breadth in allopolyploids compared to diploids similarly may be more due to parental traits than to effects of genome duplication per se. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Genetic Diversity Evaluation of the Fruit Trees)

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16 pages, 891 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

How Young Consumers Perceive Vertical Farming in the Nordics. Is the Market Ready for the Coming Boom?

by Linthujan Perambalam, Dafni D. Avgoustaki, Aspasia Efthimiadou, Yongming Liu, Ying Wang, Maozhi Ren, Antonios Petridis and George Xydis

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2128; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112128 - 24 Oct 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4836

Abstract

Producing food via vertical farming (VF) is an efficient method since it requires less space with increased yield per unit area. Such a system can assist in solving major food-shortage problems since it presents a higher crop yield per unit area compared to [...] Read more.

Producing food via vertical farming (VF) is an efficient method since it requires less space with increased yield per unit area. Such a system can assist in solving major food-shortage problems since it presents a higher crop yield per unit area compared to conventional farming. Thus, VF can be seen as a production method that can cope with the challenge of the constantly growing population, making it also possible to cultivate crops in regions with adverse climate conditions. However, the public might be concerned about the sustainability of VF systems since plants are produced in an unconventional setting. Therefore, there is a need to consider and evaluate the consumers’ acceptance of VF. The particular study attempts to both analyse consumer acceptance of VF in the Nordic areas and offer insights into VF acceptance among young customers in a comparative analysis. The results indicated that VF is not widely accepted by young Nordic consumers. The concept of sustainability is one of the principles driving forces behind consumer acceptance of vertical farms. The more cases of vertical farms in European cities, the better seems to be the level of acceptance among young customers and their willingness to purchase their products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enabling Urban Agriculture: Exploring the Mainstreaming of Global Urban Food Initiatives)

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14 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Disease Severity, Resistance Analysis, and Expression Profiling of Pathogenesis-Related Protein Genes after the Inoculation of Fusarium equiseti in Wheat

by Hakim Manghwar, Amjad Hussain, Qurban Ali, Muhammad Hamzah Saleem, Muyassar H. Abualreesh, Aishah Alatawi, Shafaqat Ali and Muhammad Farooq Hussain Munis

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2124; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112124 - 23 Oct 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3115

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is an important cereal crop, grown throughout the temperate and in some tropical and sub-tropical zones, at higher elevations. Several biotic and abiotic factors influence the production of wheat. In the present study, two wheat varieties have been [...] Read more.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is an important cereal crop, grown throughout the temperate and in some tropical and sub-tropical zones, at higher elevations. Several biotic and abiotic factors influence the production of wheat. In the present study, two wheat varieties have been subjected to disease severity and resistance analysis against Fusarium equiseti. Disease severity analysis revealed Shafaq-2006 to be more resistant than Sahar-2006. Both varieties were further subjected to the expression analysis of six important defense-related genes by RT-PCR and quantitative real-time PCR. This analysis revealed that PR-1, TLP, Chitinase, and β-1,3-glucanase genes were highly expressed in Shafaq-2006 and possibly play a significant role in its defense mechanism. In addition, biochemical and physiochemical parameters were also studied to further explore the difference between resistant and susceptible varieties. With total proline and protein contents, sugar and chlorophyll contents also increased significantly in resistant variety. Likewise, higher relative water content, total plant length, and the high root–shoot ratio was observed in resistant plants, compared to susceptible wheat plants. These increases in chemical and physiological parameters might be related to the activation of the defense mechanism due to the higher expression of PR genes in the resistant wheat variety. These genes can further be employed for cloning into wheat and other transgenic crops to develop resistance against F. equiseti. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Treatment and Management of Fusarium Disease in Wheat)

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20 pages, 1120 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Breeding for Low Temperature Germinability in Temperate Japonica Rice Varieties: Analysis of Candidate Genes in Associated QTLs

by Ester Sales, Eva Miedes and Luis Marqués

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2125; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112125 - 23 Oct 2021

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1795

Abstract

In temperate areas, rice deals with low temperatures that can affect plant growth and crop yield. Rapid germination is required for adequate plant establishment in the field, therefore obtaining cultivars that maintain this phenotype under suboptimal temperature conditions is a challenge for rice [...] Read more.

In temperate areas, rice deals with low temperatures that can affect plant growth and crop yield. Rapid germination is required for adequate plant establishment in the field, therefore obtaining cultivars that maintain this phenotype under suboptimal temperature conditions is a challenge for rice breeders. Our study aimed to investigate temperature-induced expression changes in genes underlying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated to this trait (low temperature germinability, LTG) that were detected in a previous genome wide association study (GWAS). In the context of a breeding program for japonica rice cultivars adapted to cultivation in Spain, we obtained two biparental families of lines derived from hybridization with two cold tolerant Italian cultivars, and we have studied the effect on the LTG phenotype of introgressing these QTLs. A wide region in chromosome 3 was related to significant increases in seedling growth rate at 15 °C, although the extent of the effect depended on the analyzed family. In parallel, we studied the pattern of expression during germination at different temperatures of 10 genes located in the LTG-associated QTLs, in five japonica rice cultivars and in a biparental family of recombinant inbred lines (RILs). Cold induced changes in the expression of the 10 analyzed genes, with significant differences among genotypes. Variation in LTG phenotype was consistently associated with changes in the pattern of expression of five genes from the tagged regions in rice chromosome 3, which encoded for enzymes implicated in phytohormone metabolism (OsFBK12, Os3Bglu6), oxidative stress (SPL35, OsSRO1c) and Mn homeostasis maintenance (OsMTP8.1). Differential expression induced by cold in two regulatory genes (Os02g0824000 and Os06g06400) also contributed to explain low temperature tolerance during rice germination. In conclusion, introgression in defective cultivars of favorable alleles for these genes would contribute to the genetic improvement of LTG in japonica rice varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rice Genetics: Trends and Challenges for the Future Crops Production)

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19 pages, 3968 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of White LED Lighting with Specific Shorter Blue and/or Green Wavelength on the Growth and Quality of Two Lettuce Cultivars in a Vertical Farming System

by Thi Kim Loan Nguyen, Kye Man Cho, Hee Yul Lee, Du Yong Cho, Ga Oun Lee, Seong Nam Jang, Yongki Lee, Daesup Kim and Ki-Ho Son

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2111; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112111 - 21 Oct 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6356

Abstract

White (W) light-emitting diode (LED) light has been used as an efficient light source for commercial plant cultivation in vertical farming. This study aimed to examine the effect of W LED light sources on the growth and quality of butterhead and romaine lettuce. [...] Read more.

White (W) light-emitting diode (LED) light has been used as an efficient light source for commercial plant cultivation in vertical farming. This study aimed to examine the effect of W LED light sources on the growth and quality of butterhead and romaine lettuce. Three W LED light sources including normal W light (NWL) which has 450 nm as its pumping wavelength and two specific W lights (SWL1 and SWL2) with shorter blue peak wavelength (437 nm) were used to grow lettuce in comparison to a red (R) and blue (B) LED combination. As a result, SWL1 and SWL2 treatments with the same electrical power or photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) resulted in more growth of both lettuce cultivars compared to RB treatment. Some phenolic and flavonol contents were increased in the RB treatment, whereas SWL2 treatment stimulated the accumulation of other phenolic and flavonol compounds. Meanwhile, neither NWL nor SWL1 treatments increased the individual phenolic and flavonol contents in either cultivar (except for some flavonols in romaine lettuce in the SWL1 group). In addition, light and energy use efficiencies were also highest in the SWL1 and SWL2 treatments. These results illustrate the positive effects of specific W LED light on lettuce growth and quality, and suggest that the specific W LED light sources, especially SWL2, could be preferably used in vertical farming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Vertical Farming in Modern Horticultural Crop Production—Series Ⅱ)

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16 pages, 1831 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic Analysis of Biochar Use in Soybean Production in Poland

by Agnieszka Ewa Latawiec, Agnieszka Koryś, Katarzyna Anna Koryś, Maciej Kuboń, Urszula Sadowska, Maciej Gliniak, Jakub Sikora, Adam Drosik, Marcin Niemiec, Agnieszka Klimek-Kopyra, Maciej Sporysz, Boguslaw Usowicz and Bruna Medeiros

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2108; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112108 - 21 Oct 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3277

Abstract

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is one of the most important crops grown globally. Biochar has been proposed as an alternative to aid sustainable soybean production. However, comprehensive studies that include both the economic aspects of soybean production and biochar are scarce. Poland, [...] Read more.

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is one of the most important crops grown globally. Biochar has been proposed as an alternative to aid sustainable soybean production. However, comprehensive studies that include both the economic aspects of soybean production and biochar are scarce. Poland, with an economy largely based on agriculture, is an interesting case to investigate the cost-effectiveness of using biochar in soybean production. We show that the use of biochar at rates of 40, 60 and 80 t/ha is unprofitable compared with a traditional soil amendment, such as NPK fertilization. The breakeven price for biochar to be economically viable should be USD 39.22, USD 38.29 and USD 23.53 for 40, 60 and 80 Mg/ha biochar, respectively, while the cost of biochar used for this experiment was USD 85.33. The payback period for doses of 40 and 60 Mg/ha was estimated to be three years. With a carbon sequestration subsidy of USD 30 per ton of CO₂, the use of biochar may be profitable in the first year of soybean production. This is the first comprehensive economic analysis of the use of biochar in soybean production in Poland and one of the few published worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biochar from Agricultural Residues for Sustainable Farming and Recultivation)

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22 pages, 2535 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seed Priming with Mg(NO₃)₂ and ZnSO₄ Salts Triggers the Germination and Growth Attributes Synergistically in Wheat Varieties

by Surendra Kumar Choudhary, Vivek Kumar, Rajesh Kumar Singhal, Bandana Bose, Jyoti Chauhan, Saud Alamri, Manzer H. Siddiqui, Talha Javed, Rubab Shabbir, Karthika Rajendran, Muhammad Aamir Iqbal, Zahia E. A. Elmetwaly, Sobhy Sorour and Ayman EL. Sabagh

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2110; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112110 - 21 Oct 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2561

Abstract

An experiment was conducted in both laboratory (germinative attributes) and field conditions (growth attributes) with completely randomized design (CRD) and randomized block design, respectively, to view the responses of different priming treatments in two wheat varieties: HUW-234 (V1) and BHU-3(V2). In the present [...] Read more.

An experiment was conducted in both laboratory (germinative attributes) and field conditions (growth attributes) with completely randomized design (CRD) and randomized block design, respectively, to view the responses of different priming treatments in two wheat varieties: HUW-234 (V1) and BHU-3(V2). In the present study, seeds were primed with water (hydro; T2), Mg (NO₃)₂ (T3), ZnSO₄ (T4), and a combination of both salts (T5). Their carry over effects were observed on the germinative and vegetative phases of growth. All treatments were compared with the performance of nonprimed control seeds (T1). Maximum germination percentage (98.33, 100%) was noted with T3, whereas length of shoot (8.83, 10.23 cm) and root (9.47, 10.73 cm) and their fresh (0.34, 0.45 g) and dry weights (0.05, 0.07 g) were recorded maximum in T5 for both varieties; however, the vigor index I and II showed varietal difference, but primed sets were found always superior with respect to nonprimed control. Study of plant height, leaf number and area, fresh and dry weights of total leaves and stem showed the best performance under combined use of both salts, i.e., Mg (NO₃)₂ and ZnSO₄ as priming agents, followed by ZnSO₄, Mg (NO₃)₂, hydro, and the nonprimed one. The study of biochemical parameters such as protein content and nitrate reductase activity of leaves showed the highest increment in combined priming treatment and increased 63.77, 90.37, 37.44% and 12.81, 5.61, 7.75%, respectively, after 35, 45, and 60 days after sowing. It is likely that chlorophyll, nitrogen, iron, and zinc content also followed a similar pattern and were enhanced in combined priming treatments as compared to nonpriming treatment. Therefore, the result suggests that priming seeds with Mg (NO₃)₂ and ZnSO₄ worked synergistically at varietal level and improved growth attributes at field conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategizing Agricultural Management for Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation)

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19 pages, 1633 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Role of Sequential Cropping and Biogasdoneright™ in Enhancing the Sustainability of Agricultural Systems in Europe

by Francesca Magnolo, Harmen Dekker, Mieke Decorte, Guido Bezzi, Lorella Rossi, Erik Meers and Stijn Speelman

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2102; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112102 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 7538

Abstract

Sequential cropping in the Biogasdoneright™ (BDR™) system in Italy has recently gained attention to combine food and renewable energy production in a sustainable way, as well as for carbon sequestration. However, little is known on the potential to expand the practice in other [...] Read more.

Sequential cropping in the Biogasdoneright™ (BDR™) system in Italy has recently gained attention to combine food and renewable energy production in a sustainable way, as well as for carbon sequestration. However, little is known on the potential to expand the practice in other regions of Europe. In this paper, sequential crop calendars were developed for different EU climate regions, and the EU biomethane potential of the anaerobic digestion (AD) of sequential crops was estimated for a Conservative_Scenario and a Maximum_Scenario, assuming different percentages of primary crop land dedicated to the practice and biogas yields. A total EU biomethane potential of 46 bcm/yr and 185 bcm/yr was estimated from the AD of sequential crops in the two scenarios, respectively, and the Continental region registered the highest potential compared to the other regions. The additional benefits of the combination of sequential cropping with other agricultural conservation practices and digestate use included in BDR™ systems were also discussed. In conclusion, the paper shows that with appropriate innovations in crop management, sequential cropping could be applied in different agroclimatic regions of Europe, contributing to climate and renewable energy targets. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Technological Solutions and Process Development in the Circular Bio-Economy)

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23 pages, 1668 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Crop Allelopathy for Sustainable Weed Management in Agroecosystems: Knowing the Present with a View to the Future

by Aurelio Scavo and Giovanni Mauromicale

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2104; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112104 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 11699

Abstract

In the face of yield losses caused by weeds, especially in low-input agricultural systems, and environmental pollution due to the excessive use of synthetic herbicides, sustainable weed management has become mandatory. To address these issues, allelopathy, i.e., the biochemical phenomenon of chemical interactions [...] Read more.

In the face of yield losses caused by weeds, especially in low-input agricultural systems, and environmental pollution due to the excessive use of synthetic herbicides, sustainable weed management has become mandatory. To address these issues, allelopathy, i.e., the biochemical phenomenon of chemical interactions between plants through the release of secondary metabolites into the environment, is gaining popularity. Although many important crops are known for their allelopathic potential, farmers are still reluctant to use such knowledge practically. It is therefore important to assist advisors and farmers in assessing whether allelopathy can be effectively implemented into an eco-friendly weed management strategy. Here, we aim to give a comprehensive and updated review on the herbicidal potential of allelopathy. The major findings are the following: (1) Crops from different botanical families show allelopathic properties and can be cultivated alone or in combination with other non-allelopathic crops. (2) Many allelopathic tools can be adopted (crop rotation, intercropping, cover cropping as living or dead mulches, green manuring, use of allelochemical-based bioherbicides). (3) These methods are highly flexible and feature increased efficiency when combined into an integrated weed management strategy. (4) Recent advances in the chemistry of allelopathy are facilitating the use of allelochemicals for bioherbicide production. (5) Several biotechnologies, such as stress induction and genetic engineering techniques, can enhance the allelopathic potential of crops or introduce allelopathic traits de novo. This review shows how important the role of allelopathy for sustainable weed management is and, at the same time, indicates the need for field experiments, mainly under an integrated approach. Finally, we recommend the combination of transgenic allelopathy with the aforementioned allelopathic tools to increase the weed-suppressive efficacy of allelopathy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cropping Systems and Agronomic Management Practices of Field Crops)

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20 pages, 3881 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic Comparison of Satellite, Plane and UAV-Acquired NDVI Images for Site-Specific Nitrogen Application: Observations from Italy

by Marco Sozzi, Ahmed Kayad, Stefano Gobbo, Alessia Cogato, Luigi Sartori and Francesco Marinello

Agronomy 2021, 11(11), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11112098 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4077

Abstract

Defining the most profitable remote sensing platforms is a difficult decision-making process, as it requires agronomic and economic considerations. In this paper, the price and profitability of three levels of remote sensing platforms were evaluated to define a decision-making process. Prices of satellite, [...] Read more.

Defining the most profitable remote sensing platforms is a difficult decision-making process, as it requires agronomic and economic considerations. In this paper, the price and profitability of three levels of remote sensing platforms were evaluated to define a decision-making process. Prices of satellite, plane and UAV-acquired vegetation indices were collected in Italy during 2020 and compared to the economic benefits resulting from variable rate nitrogen application, according to a bibliographic meta-analysis performed on grains. The quality comparison of these three technologies was performed considering the error propagation in the NDVI formula. The errors of the single bands were used to assess the optical properties of the sensors. Results showed that medium-resolution satellite data with good optical properties could be profitably used for variable rate nitrogen applications starting from 2.5 hectares, in case of medium resolution with good optical properties. High-resolution satellites with lower optical quality were profitable starting from 13.2 hectares, while very high-resolution satellites with good optical properties could be profitably used starting from 76.8 hectares. Plane-acquired images, which have good optical properties, were profitable starting from 66.4 hectares. Additionally, a reference model for satellite image price is proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing in Agriculture)

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13 pages, 3487 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Innovative Land Arrangement in Combination with Irrigation Methods Improves the Crop and Water Productivity of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Grown with Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) under Raised and Sunken Bed Systems

by Pijush Das, Biswajit Pramanick, Subhendu Bikash Goswami, Sagar Maitra, Sobhy M. Ibrahim, Alison M. Laing and Akbar Hossain

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2087; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102087 - 19 Oct 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2514

Abstract

The underground water and water storage reservoirs are rapidly depleting due to nominal recharging by the rainfalls making water a scarce resource for irrigation resulting in poor crop growth and production. Irrigation water application should focus on the proficient use of each drop [...] Read more.

The underground water and water storage reservoirs are rapidly depleting due to nominal recharging by the rainfalls making water a scarce resource for irrigation resulting in poor crop growth and production. Irrigation water application should focus on the proficient use of each drop of water. Water productivity (WP) in agriculture can be improved through crop diversification, proper land and water management techniques. Considering this, a field investigation was carried out during 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 to study the crop response of rice (Oryza sativa L.) + okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) system to land configurations and irrigation regimes. Three raised-sunken beds (RSB) having width (m) ratios of 1:3, 2:3, 3:3 and two irrigation schedules viz. continuous standing water (CSW) of 5 ± 2 cm depth and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) at 3 ± 1 days interval for rice in sunken bed were tested. Rice yield was more (4.36 and 4.89 Mg ha⁻¹) under CSW irrigation than AWD irrespective of raised bed width. The highest okra yield was noted by 14.09 and 15.43 Mg ha⁻¹ with AWD in 1:3 RSB systems, whereas the lowest yield was recorded in CSW 1:3 RSB systems. Rice equivalent yield (REY) was found as the maximum in AWD than CSW irrespective of raised and sunken bed configurations. The AWD in 3:3 RSB systems exhibited the highest WP of 1.02 and 1.01 kg m⁻³ during the first and second year of study, respectively. Wider RSB system of land configuration ratio of 3:3 saved about 40–45% of irrigation water. Such information will help in the planning of an innovative intercropping system of summer rice + okra in the field by changing the land configuration to the raised bed and sunken bed with the AWD irrigation system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tillage and Sowing Technologies)

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14 pages, 1701 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Estimation of Daily Reference Evapotranspiration from NASA POWER Reanalysis Products in a Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate

by Gonçalo C. Rodrigues and Ricardo P. Braga

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2077; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102077 - 18 Oct 2021

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2774

Abstract

This study aims at assessing the accuracy of estimating daily reference evapotranspiration (ETo) computed with NASA POWER reanalysis products. Daily ETo estimated from local observations of weather variables in 14 weather stations distributed across Alentejo Region, Southern Portugal were compared with ETo derived [...] Read more.

This study aims at assessing the accuracy of estimating daily reference evapotranspiration (ETo) computed with NASA POWER reanalysis products. Daily ETo estimated from local observations of weather variables in 14 weather stations distributed across Alentejo Region, Southern Portugal were compared with ETo derived from NASA POWER weather data, using raw and bias-corrected datasets. Three different methods were used to compute ETo: (a) FAO Penman-Monteith (PM); (b) Hargreaves-Samani (HS); and (c) MaxTET. Results show that, when using raw NASA POWER datasets, a good accuracy between the observed ETo and reanalysis ETo was observed in most locations (R² > 0.70). PM shows a tendency to over-estimating ETo with an RMSE as high as 1.41 mm d⁻¹, while using a temperature-based ET estimation method, an RMSE lower than 0.92 mm d⁻¹ is obtained. If a local bias correction is adopted, the temperature-based methods show a small over or underestimation of ETo (–0.40 mm d⁻¹ ≤ MBE < 0.40 mm d⁻¹). As for PM, ETo is still underestimated for 13 locations (MBE < 0 mm d⁻¹) but with an RMSE never higher than 0.77 mm d⁻¹. When NASA POWER raw data is used to estimate ETo, HS_Rs proved the most accurate method, providing the lowest RMSE for half the locations. However, if a data regional bias correction is used, PM leads to the most accurate ETo estimation for half the locations; also, when a local bias correction is performed, PM proved the be the most accurate ETo estimation method for most locations. Nonetheless, MaxTET proved to be an accurate method; its simplicity may prove to be successful not only when only maximum temperature data is available but also due to the low data required for ETo estimation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Irrigation Technology and Adaptation to Climate Change)

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9 pages, 288 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Genotype and Climatic Conditions on the Oil Content and Its Fatty Acids Composition of Carthamus tinctorius L. Seeds

by Kamel Zemour, Ahmed Adda, Amina Labdelli, Abdelkader Dellal, Muriel Cerny and Othmane Merah

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2048; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102048 - 12 Oct 2021

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2067

Abstract

Safflower seeds provide an oil rich in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Its adaptation to drought and high temperatures makes it an alternative for the development of oleaginous crops in semi-arid areas. This study examines the oil content and the chemical composition of [...] Read more.

Safflower seeds provide an oil rich in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Its adaptation to drought and high temperatures makes it an alternative for the development of oleaginous crops in semi-arid areas. This study examines the oil content and the chemical composition of seed oil from three safflower accessions (Gila, Halab, Touggourt) cultivated over three years (2015, 2016 and 2017) in a semi-arid area in Tiaret (West of Algeria). Under these semi-arid conditions, characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures, seed oil content remained relatively high and was composed mainly of unsaturated fatty acids, with their ratio to saturated fatty acids reaching an average value of 9. Seed oil content varies between 22.8% and 28.4% among the genotypes and throughout the three years. The extracted oil consists essentially of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic and oleic acids, poly and monounsaturated, respectively. Their contents over the three years vary between 75% and 79.3% for linoleic acid and between 10.2% and 14.7% for oleic acid. The saturated fatty acids content of the oil reached a maximum value of 9%. They consist mainly of palmitic acid, of which the average genotypic content varies between 6.6% and 7.15% depending on all grown years. The results obtained may assist in better understanding the response of cultivars under rainfed conditions and could be helpful for breeders with regards to introduction into selection programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to Combined and Overlapping Abiotic Stress Conditions)

11 pages, 1769 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Consumers within the Spicy Pepper Supply Chain

by Jay Lillywhite and Sunshine Tso

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2040; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102040 - 11 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3381

Abstract

“Spicy pepper” is a term used to describe a variety of “pungent” peppers, sometimes referred to as hot, chili, or chile. The USDA reports that the per capita availability of chile peppers has increased more than 100% since the early 1980s. While the [...] Read more.

“Spicy pepper” is a term used to describe a variety of “pungent” peppers, sometimes referred to as hot, chili, or chile. The USDA reports that the per capita availability of chile peppers has increased more than 100% since the early 1980s. While the availability of spicy peppers has increased, easily accessible data regarding which varieties are consumed, how they are used by households, and who is most likely to consume them is not available. This paper provides insights into U.S. spicy pepper production and consumption as provided by a review of existing trade data and a survey of U.S. consumers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ethnic Crops in the United States of America)

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15 pages, 4737 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Design of and Experiment with Seedling Selection System for Automatic Transplanter for Vegetable Plug Seedlings

by Yongshuang Wen, Leian Zhang, Xuemei Huang, Ting Yuan, Junxiong Zhang, Yuzhi Tan and Zhongbin Feng

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2031; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102031 - 9 Oct 2021

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3149

Abstract

In the process of vegetable plug seedling cultivation, packaging, and transportation, there may be missing, unhealthy or injured seedlings in the tray, which results in a missed planting or a low seedling survival rate after automatic transplanting. In this study, a seedling selection [...] Read more.

In the process of vegetable plug seedling cultivation, packaging, and transportation, there may be missing, unhealthy or injured seedlings in the tray, which results in a missed planting or a low seedling survival rate after automatic transplanting. In this study, a seedling selection system with the function of seedlings identification, week seedlings elimination, and missing seedlings supplement was developed for an automatic transplanter. A plug seedling identification system based on a machine vision was used to detect vegetable plug seedlings based on the area characteristics of plug seedlings, stem leaves and plug bodies. The identification results were transmitted to a programmable logic controller (PLC), which controlled a nozzle to eliminate the unqualified seedlings from the conveyor belt lattice. When the empty conveyor belt lattice reaches the seedling throwing funnel, the rear conveyor belt lattice with the plug seedling is accelerated to ensure the continuity of seedlings supply. The adaptive fuzzy PID control algorithm was used to control the stepper motor of the conveyor belt to realize accurate seedling conveying and a seedling supplement. Using 30 days pepper plug seedlings as experimental seedlings, a comparative field experiment was carried out to evaluate the performance of the seedling selection system. The results showed that when the seedling selection system was turned on and the seedling extracting frequencies were 60, 80, and 100 plants/min, the success rates of plug seedling identification were 98.84%, 98.38%, and 96.99%, and the robust seedling rates were 98.05%, 97.78%, and 95.83%. The robust seedling rates were increased by 15.64%, 16.07%, and 13.89%, respectively, in contrast to turning off the seedling selection system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI and Agricultural Robots)

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19 pages, 792 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Effect of Agronomic Techniques on Aroma Composition of White Grapevines: A Review

by Eleonora Cataldo, Linda Salvi, Francesca Paoli, Maddalena Fucile and Giovan Battista Mattii

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2027; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102027 - 9 Oct 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2860

Abstract

Climate change with rising temperatures and the unpredictability of rainy events during ripening leads to tough challenges for the winemakers in preserving the quality of white grape varieties. Grape quality is a complex concept that mainly refers to berry chemical composition, including secondary [...] Read more.

Climate change with rising temperatures and the unpredictability of rainy events during ripening leads to tough challenges for the winemakers in preserving the quality of white grape varieties. Grape quality is a complex concept that mainly refers to berry chemical composition, including secondary metabolites such as aroma compounds that in white berries play a key role in the identity of the wine. Terpenes, thiols, C13-norisoprenoids, methoxypyrazines, and nonterpenic alcohols are the most important aroma compounds in white grapes and several of them can be found as free volatiles or bound as glycoconjugate molecules. Agronomic practices in vineyards, such as biostimulant application, irrigation, defoliation, training systems, foliar fertilization, and bunch thinning, can have a positive effect on their concentration. This review aims to highlight the aromatic characteristics of the most utilized white grape cultivars and focus on agronomic techniques in the vineyard to enhance, implement, and intensify their aromatic characteristics. The purpose of this review paper is therefore to investigate the state of the art regarding the exaltation of aroma in white grapes in the scientific literature through sustainable agronomic techniques, but further future investigations are considered necessary given the uncertainty concerning some mechanisms of biosynthesis and their correlation with such agronomic practices. Full article

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18 pages, 2663 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Parthenocarpy and Self-Incompatibility in Mandarins

by Rafael Montalt, María Carmen Vives, Luis Navarro, Patrick Ollitrault and Pablo Aleza

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2023; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102023 - 9 Oct 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3128

Abstract

Citrus reproductive biology is complex. One of its characteristic features is parthenocarpy that enables seedless fruit production. Citrus parthenocarpy and self-incompatibility knowledge is only partial and sometimes discrepant. Increasing such knowledge is relevant for better managing cultivated varieties and improving the selection of [...] Read more.

Citrus reproductive biology is complex. One of its characteristic features is parthenocarpy that enables seedless fruit production. Citrus parthenocarpy and self-incompatibility knowledge is only partial and sometimes discrepant. Increasing such knowledge is relevant for better managing cultivated varieties and improving the selection of parents in breeding strategies to recover seedless varieties such as mandarins. This work develops an efficient protocol to characterize self-incompatibility and different parthenocarpy types based on emasculation, hand self-pollination, and hand cross-pollination. It analyzes fruit setting and seed production coupled with histological pollen performance observations. We analyzed the reproductive behavior of nine mandarin varieties with relevant characteristics as parents for seedless mandarin breeding. ‘Clemenules’ clementine and ‘Moncada’ mandarins were strictly self-incompatible with facultative and vegetative parthenocarpy; ‘Imperial’ mandarin and ‘Ellendale’ tangor displayed no strict self-incompatibility associated with facultative and vegetative parthenocarpy; ‘Fortune’ mandarin was self-incompatible with facultative and stimulative parthenocarpy; ‘Campeona’ and ‘Salteñita’ mandarins were self-compatible with vegetative parthenocarpy; ‘Serafines’ satsuma was associated with male sterility together with facultative and vegetative parthenocarpy; and ‘Monreal’ clementine was self-compatible and nonparthenocarpic. Our protocol can be applied for screening of mandarin germplasm and to characterize new parents. Reproductive behavior knowledge is important for optimizing seedless mandarin breeding programs based on diploidy, triploidy, or induced mutagenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Citrus Breeding, Genetics, Physiology and Horticultural Management)

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11 pages, 1708 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Ovicidal and Physiological Effects of Essential Oils Extracted from Six Medicinal Plants on the Elm Leaf Beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola (Mull.)

by Bita Valizadeh, Jalal Jalali Sendi, Marziyeh Oftadeh, Asgar Ebadollahi and Patcharin Krutmuang

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2015; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102015 - 7 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2327

Abstract

Plant essential oils may serve as safe alternatives to detrimental synthetic pesticides due to relatively lower side effects on the environment and non-targeted organisms. The current study was conducted to investigate the ovicidal toxicity and physiological disruptions of six medicinal plant essential oils, [...] Read more.

Plant essential oils may serve as safe alternatives to detrimental synthetic pesticides due to relatively lower side effects on the environment and non-targeted organisms. The current study was conducted to investigate the ovicidal toxicity and physiological disruptions of six medicinal plant essential oils, including Artemisia annua L., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Origanum vulgare L., Rosmarinus officinalis Spenn., Satureja hortensis L., and Thymus vulgaris L., on elm leaf beetle Xanthogaleruca luteola (Mull.). The LC₅₀ (Lethal Concentration to kill 50% of tested insects) values of 122.8, 287.5, 152.8, 180.6, 315.9, and 1366.2 ppm were recorded for T. vulgaris, L. angustifolia, A. annua, S. hortensis, R. officinalis, and O. vulgare, respectively, 72 h after treatment of 3-day-old eggs of the pest. Significant decreases in the amounts of glucose, protein, and triglyceride macromolecules were also observed after treatment. The application of essential oils derived from T. vulgaris, A. annua, and S. hortensis at 400 ppm revealed 100% ovicidal activity. Accordingly, tested essential oils, particularly the essential oil of T. vulgaris, have been promising potential as biorational insecticides in the management of X. luteola. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pesticide Discovery and Application)

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25 pages, 2169 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Phosphorus Transformation in Soils Following Co-Application of Charcoal and Wood Ash

by Prisca Divra Johan, Osumanu Haruna Ahmed, Latifah Omar and Nur Aainaa Hasbullah

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 2010; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11102010 - 4 Oct 2021

Cited by 84 | Viewed by 18354

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) is a vital soil macronutrient required by plants for optimum growth and development. However, its availability is limited because of fixation. The phosphorus fixation reaction is pH dependent. In acid soils, the predominance of aluminium (Al) and iron (Fe) oxides in [...] Read more.

Phosphorus (P) is a vital soil macronutrient required by plants for optimum growth and development. However, its availability is limited because of fixation. The phosphorus fixation reaction is pH dependent. In acid soils, the predominance of aluminium (Al) and iron (Fe) oxides in both crystalline and amorphous forms reduces the solubility of soil inorganic P through fixation on positively charged surfaces and formation of insoluble Al and Fe precipitates. In alkaline soils, P readily reacts with calcium (Ca) to form sparingly soluble calcium phosphates. As a result, a large proportion of applied P may become chemically bound, whereas only a small fraction of soil P remains in the soil solution and available for plant uptake. To date, there is little information available on the use of charcoal with a highly negative charge and wood ash with high alkalinity to minimise P fixation in acid soils. Thus, this study examined the potential of the combined use of charcoal and wood ash to unlock P fixation in acid soils. Numerous studies have been conducted to identify effective approaches to improve P availability through the use of different types of soil amendments, regardless of whether P is organically or inorganically present. For example, to mitigate P fixation in acid soils, amendments such as compost and zeolite are used to reduce P sorption sites. These amendments have also been used to increase P uptake and crop productivity in P deficient acid soils by reducing soil acidity and the toxicity of Al and Fe. It is believed that long-term application of charcoal and sago bark ash can positively change the physical and chemical properties of soils. These improvements do not only reduce P fixation in acid soils, but they also promote an effective utilisation of nutrients through timely release of nutrients for maximum crop production. Full article

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22 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Multi-Environment Yield Components in Advanced Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) × Tepary Bean (P. acutifolius A. Gray) Interspecific Lines for Heat and Drought Tolerance

by Esteban Burbano-Erazo, Rommel Igor León-Pacheco, Carina Cecilia Cordero-Cordero, Felipe López-Hernández, Andrés J. Cortés and Adriana Patricia Tofiño-Rivera

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1978; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101978 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 3399

Abstract

Heat and drought are major stresses that significantly reduce seed yield of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). In turn, this affects the profitability of the crop in climatic-vulnerable tropical arid regions, which happen to be the poorest and in most need [...] Read more.

Heat and drought are major stresses that significantly reduce seed yield of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). In turn, this affects the profitability of the crop in climatic-vulnerable tropical arid regions, which happen to be the poorest and in most need of legume proteins. Therefore, it is imperative to broaden the sources of heat and drought resistance in the common bean by examining closely related species from warmer and drier environments (i.e., Tepary bean, P. acutifolius A. Gray), while harnessing such variation, typically polygenic, throughout advanced interspecific crossing schemes. As part of this study, interspecific congruity backcrosses for high temperature and drought tolerance conditions were characterized across four localities in coastal Colombia. Genotypes with high values of CO₂ assimilation (>24 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹), promising yield scores (>19 g/plant), and high seed mineral content (Fe > 100 mg/kg) were identified at the warmest locality, Motilonia. At the driest locality, Caribia, one intercrossed genotype (i.e., 85) and the P. acutifolius G40001 control exhibited sufficient yield for commercial production (17.76 g/plant and 12.76 g/plant, respectively). Meanwhile, at southernmost Turipaná and Carmen de Bolívar localities, two clusters of genotypes exhibited high mean yield scores with 33.31 g/plant and 17.89 g/plant, respectively, and one genotype had an increased Fe content (109.7 mg/kg). Overall, a multi-environment AMMI analysis revealed that genotypes 13, 27, 82, and 84 were environmentally stable with higher yield scores compared to the Tepary control G40001. Ultimately, this study allows us to conclude that advanced common bean × Tepary bean interspecific congruity backcrosses are capable of pyramiding sufficient polygenic tolerance responses for the extreme weather conditions of coastal Colombia, which are likely to worsen due to climate change. Furthermore, some particular recombination events (i.e., genotype 68) show that there may be potential to couple breeding for heat and drought tolerance with Fe mineral biofortification, despite a prevalent trade-off, as a way to fight malnutrition of marginalized communities in tropical regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Omics Approaches for Crop Improvement)

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20 pages, 3016 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Optimizing Peach Tree Canopy Architecture for Efficient Light Use, Increased Productivity and Improved Fruit Quality

by Brendon M. Anthony and Ioannis S. Minas

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1961; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101961 - 29 Sep 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 9246

Abstract

Peach production in the USA has been in decline in recent decades due to poor fruit quality, reduced consumption and increased cost of production. Productivity and fruit quality can only be enhanced in the orchard through optimizing preharvest factors such as orchard design [...] Read more.

Peach production in the USA has been in decline in recent decades due to poor fruit quality, reduced consumption and increased cost of production. Productivity and fruit quality can only be enhanced in the orchard through optimizing preharvest factors such as orchard design and training systems. Transition from low-density plantings (LDP) to high-density plantings (HDP) in peach is associated with the availability of reliable size controlling rootstocks. Increased densities must be combined with modern training systems to diffuse vigor and further increase light interception and yields, while optimizing light distribution, fruit quality and cost of production. Several training systems have been tested in peach with various objectives and goals, such as increasing light, water use and labor efficiencies, along with designing canopy architectures to facilitate mechanization and robotics. In general, increased planting densities increase yields, but excessive densities can promote shade, while excessive crop load can deteriorate quality. An ideal peach cropping system should optimize light interception and light distribution to balance maximum yield potential with maximum fruit quality potential. Successful management of high-density peach fruiting wall systems can lead to enhanced and uniform fruit quality, and ensure a sustainable industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation in New Varieties, New Rootstocks and Training Systems: Towards Higher Efficiency and Sustainability)

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19 pages, 534 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Does Digital Financial Inclusion Affect Agricultural Eco-Efficiency? A Case Study on China

by Jiehua Ma and Zhenghui Li

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1949; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101949 - 28 Sep 2021

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 2864

Abstract

Agricultural eco-efficiency can effectively reflect the coordinated green and balanced development of rural resources, and digital financial inclusion provides a strong financial power in the process of long-term balanced development of rural areas. There may be a complex relationship between the two. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Agricultural eco-efficiency can effectively reflect the coordinated green and balanced development of rural resources, and digital financial inclusion provides a strong financial power in the process of long-term balanced development of rural areas. There may be a complex relationship between the two. Therefore, based on the panel data of 30 provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities in mainland China from 2011 to 2018, this paper explores the impact of digital financial inclusion on agricultural eco-efficiency through the differential GMM method. Further, the paper analyzes how digital financial inclusion influences agricultural eco-efficiency by influencing the agricultural scientific and technological investment. The following conclusions are drawn. First, there is a positive U-shaped nonlinear relationship between digital financial inclusion and agricultural eco-efficiency. Second, the impact of digital financial inclusion on agricultural eco-efficiency is of regional heterogeneity. Digital financial inclusion has a significant positive U-shaped impact on agricultural eco-efficiency in central China but has no significant impact on Eastern and Western China. Third, agricultural R&D investment will intensify the promotion effect of digital financial inclusion on agricultural eco-efficiency. Full article

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20 pages, 3790 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating the Spectral and Physiological Responses of Grapevines (Vitis vinifera L.) to Heat and Water Stresses under Different Vineyard Cooling and Irrigation Strategies

by Alessia Cogato, Lihua Wu, Shaikh Yassir Yousouf Jewan, Franco Meggio, Francesco Marinello, Marco Sozzi and Vinay Pagay

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1940; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101940 - 27 Sep 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3276

Abstract

Heat stress (HS) and water stress (WS) pose severe threats to viticulture, and effective management solutions to counter their effects on grapevine performance must be examined. In this study, we evaluated the physiological and spectral responses of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Sauvignon blanc [...] Read more.

Heat stress (HS) and water stress (WS) pose severe threats to viticulture, and effective management solutions to counter their effects on grapevine performance must be examined. In this study, we evaluated the physiological and spectral responses of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Sauvignon blanc to individual (HS) and combined (HS + WS) stress under four different cooling and irrigation strategies. The treatments were: standard drip irrigation (SI), extra drip irrigation (SI+), extra sprinklers irrigation (SPRI), and sustained deficit irrigation (SDI; 50% of SI). Compared to the other treatments, in the early stages after the occurrence of HS, the vine water status of SPRI and SI+ improved, with high stomatal conductance (g_s) (SPRI) and stem water potential (

Ψ

_stem; SPRI and SI+). All the physiological indicators measured were significantly lower after the end of HS in the SDI treatment. We also identified the spectral response of grapevine to HS and combined HS and WS (resulting from SDI). Consistent with the physiological analysis, the proximal spectral responses of leaves identified SPRI and SI+ as putative cooling strategies to minimize vine HS. The vines undergoing combined stress (SDI) showed greenness amelioration 10 days after stress, as revealed by the greenness vegetation indices (VIs), i.e., Green Index (GI), Normalized Difference Greenness Vegetation Index (NDGI), and Visible Atmospherically Resistant Index (VARI). However, their physiological recovery was not achieved within this time, as shown by the Simple Ratio Index (SRI), Transformed Chlorophyll Absorption Ratio Index (TCARI), and TCARI/Optimized Soil-Adjusted Vegetation Index (TCARI/OSAVI). A three-step band selection process allowed the identification of the spectral traits’ responsive to HS and combined stress, i.e., 1336–1340 nm, 1967–1971 nm, and 600–604 nm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biotic and Abiotic Stress Management in Grapevine: Recent Advances and Major Breakthroughs)

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14 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Enhancing the Sustainability of Temperate Pasture Systems through More Diverse Swards

by David M. Jaramillo, Helen Sheridan, Kathy Soder and Jose C. B. Dubeux, Jr.

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1912; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101912 - 24 Sep 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5191

Abstract

Temperate grasslands can be highly productive. However, those that are productive are generally heavily dependent on high inputs of nitrogen (N) fertilizer. Including legumes such as white clover (Trifolium repens L.) in the sward can reduce reliance on N fertilizer. Recent investigations [...] Read more.

Temperate grasslands can be highly productive. However, those that are productive are generally heavily dependent on high inputs of nitrogen (N) fertilizer. Including legumes such as white clover (Trifolium repens L.) in the sward can reduce reliance on N fertilizer. Recent investigations have evaluated the potential of multispecies swards, which are defined as agronomically improved grasslands that include multiple plant functional groups, e.g., grasses, legumes, and forage forbs. Several of the benefits and challenges of multispecies swards are summarized in this review. To date, the most prominent forb species included in multispecies swards are chicory (Cichorum intybus L.) and ribgrass/ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.). Multispecies swards grown under reduced N fertilizer input conditions can produce as much biomass as monocultures receiving large quantities of N fertilizer. The nutritive value of multispecies swards may potentially be greater than grass-only swards, especially since forbs may contribute additional micro and macro minerals to livestock diet. While challenges associated with multispecies swards may include weed management and facilitating persistence of the forb species in particular, the overall evidence suggests that well-managed multispecies swards can enhance the productivity as well as environmental sustainability of grazing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Paradigms in Sustainable Forage-Livestock Production Systems)

22 pages, 4458 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Economic Feasibility of Agrivoltaic Systems in Food-Energy Nexus Context: Modelling and a Case Study in Niger

by Srijana Neupane Bhandari, Sabine Schlüter, Wilhelm Kuckshinrichs, Holger Schlör, Rabani Adamou and Ramchandra Bhandari

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1906; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101906 - 23 Sep 2021

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 6166

Abstract

In the literature, many studies outline the advantages of agrivoltaic (APV) systems from different viewpoints: optimized land use, productivity gain in both the energy and water sector, economic benefits, etc. A holistic analysis of an APV system is needed to understand its full [...] Read more.

In the literature, many studies outline the advantages of agrivoltaic (APV) systems from different viewpoints: optimized land use, productivity gain in both the energy and water sector, economic benefits, etc. A holistic analysis of an APV system is needed to understand its full advantages. For this purpose, a case study farm size of 0.15 ha has been chosen as a reference farm at a village in Niger, West Africa. Altogether four farming cases are considered. They are traditional rain-fed, irrigated with diesel-powered pumps, irrigated with solar pumps, and the APV system. The APV system is further analyzed under two scenarios: benefits to investors and combined benefits to investors and farmers. An economic feasibility analysis model is developed. Different economic indicators are used to present the results: gross margin, farm profit, benefit-cost ratio, and net present value (NPV). All the economic indicators obtained for the solar-powered irrigation system were positive, whereas all those for the diesel-powered system were negative. Additionally, the diesel system will emit annually about 4005 kg CO₂ to irrigate the chosen reference farm. The land equivalent ratio (LER) was obtained at 1.33 and 1.13 for two cases of shading-induced yield loss excluded and included, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Photovoltaics and Electrification in Agriculture)

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17 pages, 2504 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Halotolerant-Koccuria rhizophila (14asp)-Induced Amendment of Salt Stress in Pea Plants by Limiting Na⁺ Uptake and Elevating Production of Antioxidants

by Amir Abdullah Khan, Tongtong Wang, Tayyaba Hussain, Amna, Fayaz Ali, Fuchen Shi, Arafat Abdel Hamed Abdel Latef, Omar M. Ali, Kashif Hayat, Shehzad Mehmood, Nida Zainab, Muhammad Atif Muneer, Muhammad Farooq Hussain Munis, Mona H. Soliman and Hassan Javed Chaudhary

Agronomy 2021, 11(10), 1907; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11101907 - 23 Sep 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2741

Abstract

Endophytic bacteria are useful for their safe services in plant growth improvement and for ameliorating abiotic and biotic stresses. Salt-tolerant plant-growth-promoting Kocuria rhizophila 14asp (accession number KF 875448) was investigated for its role in pea plants under a saline environment. Salt stress (75 [...] Read more.

Endophytic bacteria are useful for their safe services in plant growth improvement and for ameliorating abiotic and biotic stresses. Salt-tolerant plant-growth-promoting Kocuria rhizophila 14asp (accession number KF 875448) was investigated for its role in pea plants under a saline environment. Salt stress (75 mM and 150 mM NaCl) was subjected to two pea varieties, peas2009 and 9800-10, in a greenhouse under a complete randomized design. Different parameters such as plant growth promotion, relative water content, chlorophyll, antioxidants, and mineral contents were analyzed to elucidate the extent of tolerance persuaded by PGPB (plant-growth-promoting bacteria). Exhibition of adverse effects was noticed in uninoculated varieties. However, inoculation of K. rhizophila improved the morphological parameters, antioxidant enzymes, and minimized the uptake of Na⁺ in plants under various saline regimes. Pea variety 9800-10 exhibited more tolerance than peas2009 in all traits, such as root and shoot length, fresh and dry biomass, chlorophyll contents, and antioxidant enzymes. Our results showed that halotolerant K. rhizophila inoculation plays a vital role in enhancing plant growth by interacting ingeniously with plants through antioxidant systems, enduring saline conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Physiological Responses to Abiotic Stress Factors)

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23 pages, 16545 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Grape Bunch Detection at Different Growth Stages Using Deep Learning Quantized Models

by André Silva Aguiar, Sandro Augusto Magalhães, Filipe Neves dos Santos, Luis Castro, Tatiana Pinho, João Valente, Rui Martins and José Boaventura-Cunha

Agronomy 2021, 11(9), 1890; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy11091890 - 21 Sep 2021

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 4403

Abstract

The agricultural sector plays a fundamental role in our society, where it is increasingly important to automate processes, which can generate beneficial impacts in the productivity and quality of products. Perception and computer vision approaches can be fundamental in the implementation of robotics [...] Read more.

The agricultural sector plays a fundamental role in our society, where it is increasingly important to automate processes, which can generate beneficial impacts in the productivity and quality of products. Perception and computer vision approaches can be fundamental in the implementation of robotics in agriculture. In particular, deep learning can be used for image classification or object detection, endowing machines with the capability to perform operations in the agriculture context. In this work, deep learning was used for the detection of grape bunches in vineyards considering different growth stages: the early stage just after the bloom and the medium stage where the grape bunches present an intermediate development. Two state-of-the-art single-shot multibox models were trained, quantized, and deployed in a low-cost and low-power hardware device, a Tensor Processing Unit. The training input was a novel and publicly available dataset proposed in this work. This dataset contains 1929 images and respective annotations of grape bunches at two different growth stages, captured by different cameras in several illumination conditions. The models were benchmarked and characterized considering the variation of two different parameters: the confidence score and the intersection over union threshold. The results showed that the deployed models could detect grape bunches in images with a medium average precision up to 66.96%. Since this approach uses low resources, a low-cost and low-power hardware device that requires simplified models with 8 bit quantization, the obtained performance was satisfactory. Experiments also demonstrated that the models performed better in identifying grape bunches at the medium growth stage, in comparison with grape bunches present in the vineyard after the bloom, since the second class represents smaller grape bunches, with a color and texture more similar to the surrounding foliage, which complicates their detection. Full article

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