Horticulturae

14 pages, 3767 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characteristics of Organic Phosphorus Pool in Soil of Typical Agriculture Systems in South China

by Tong Li, Jianwu Yao, Ruikun Zeng, Yong Chen, Lijiang Hu, Mengyao Zou and Jianfeng Ning

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111055 - 09 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1449

Organic phosphorus (P) is an important potential source of plant P nutrition in agro-ecosystems. It was hypothesized that the soil organic P pools were distinguished one from another by different land-utilization patterns. A total of 38 sites were sampled, to clarify the organic [...] Read more.

Organic phosphorus (P) is an important potential source of plant P nutrition in agro-ecosystems. It was hypothesized that the soil organic P pools were distinguished one from another by different land-utilization patterns. A total of 38 sites were sampled, to clarify the organic P pool and its distribution in paddy fields, vegetable fields, and orchards. Soil organic P fractions, including labile organic P (LOP), moderately labile organic P (MLOP), moderately resistant organic P (MROP) and highly resistant organic P (HROP) were examined. Results showed that the soil total P (TP) and available P (AP) concentration have enhanced by 138% and 1559%, respectively, over the last four decades. The soil total organic P (TOP) accounted for 21.4% of the TP pool. Soil MLOP dominated the organic P reservoir, irrespective of land-planting pattern. Soil organic P fractions ranked as MLOP > MROP > HROP > LOP. The highest accumulations of TP, AP and TOP were in the vegetable fields, followed by orchards and paddy fields. The vegetable fields had higher LOP and MLOP levels than those of the paddy fields and orchards, whereas the paddy fields exhibited higher concentrations of MROP, and HROP. Soil pH, organic matter and available nitrogen all contributed to the buildup of the organic P pool. It was suggested that soil organic P should be considered preferentially in the management of the plant P nutrient in regional planting systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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16 pages, 2783 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Contribution of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Emitted by Petals and Pollen to the Scent of Garden Roses

by Matteo Caser and Valentina Scariot

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111049 - 08 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2780

Abstract

Flower scent is an important trait of ornamental roses and has been an important character in the selection processes. In the present study, the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by both petals and pollen of 21 garden roses (Chinensis, Climber, [...] Read more.

Flower scent is an important trait of ornamental roses and has been an important character in the selection processes. In the present study, the composition of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by both petals and pollen of 21 garden roses (Chinensis, Climber, English rose, Floribunda, Hybrid Tea, Multiflora, Damascena, Musk rose, Polyantha, Rugosa and Shrub) was investigated through the GC-MS Static Headspace method. A total of 19 different VOCs were detected, and for each identified compound, an odorant description was included. In petals, the most common VOCs were 2-phenylethanol, methyl eugenol, and hexanal, present in 95%, 86% and 86% of garden roses, respectively. While, in pollen were methyl eugenol, methyl-1-butanol, and hexanal (present in 100%, 95%, and 90% of the genotypes, respectively), even if in lower content. The comparison between the petals and pollen profile shown that, even with less quantity, the main compounds characterizing the scent of the studied roses are present both in the petals and in the pollen (19 and 17 compounds, respectively), with different magnitude. Overall, the content of VOCs emitted by petals was more than five times higher than that produced by pollen. Different and characteristic VOCs profiles were emitted by petals and pollen of the studied garden roses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)

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18 pages, 1470 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Impacts of the Emerging Climate Change on Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenck.) Crop

by Anastasios S. Siomos, Konstantinos Koularmanis and Pavlos Tsouvaltzis

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111032 - 04 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3088

Abstract

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenck.) is nowadays one of the most important vegetable crops worldwide, with an increasing demand by the market, due to its high nutritional value. Based on the optimal temperature range, its cultivation in the temperate regions [...] Read more.

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica Plenck.) is nowadays one of the most important vegetable crops worldwide, with an increasing demand by the market, due to its high nutritional value. Based on the optimal temperature range, its cultivation in the temperate regions takes place from late summer to late spring. Broccoli cultivation nowadays faces many challenges, such as the profitable production throughout the year, as well as during conditions of an increased temperature, induced by the emerging climate change, as well as the possibility of introducing the cultivation to subtropical and tropical areas. The modern genotypes (F1 hybrids) differ significantly among themselves in terms of the requirements for the head’s formation, which, however, has not been fully elucidated. In this direction, breeders have been developing programs internationally since the early 1990s, in order to create genotypes that will be adapted to temperatures higher than the optimal range, having, however, a relatively limited initial germplasm pool. The purpose of this review is to present extensively the temperature requirements in the broccoli crop production and to highlight the impacts of the emerging climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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27 pages, 3814 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Volatile Profiles of Vidal Grapes in the Shangri-La High-Altitude Region during On-Vine Non-Destructive Dehydration

by Qing-Fang Xu, Liang Fan, Kai-Xiang Lu, Dong-Mei Zhao, Ming-Xia Zhang and Jian Cai

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111029 - 03 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1326

Abstract

Both free and glycosidically bound forms of volatile compounds in Vidal grapes from the Shangri-La high-altitude region during the on-vine non-destructive dehydration process were investigated by headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), following which the data were processed by [...] Read more.

Both free and glycosidically bound forms of volatile compounds in Vidal grapes from the Shangri-La high-altitude region during the on-vine non-destructive dehydration process were investigated by headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) combined with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS), following which the data were processed by multivariate statistical analysis. Fatty-acid-derived volatiles (FADs), amino-acid-derived volatiles (AADs), and isoprene-derived volatiles (IPDs), which occurred mainly in bound forms, were the three major volatiles in dehydrated Vidal grapes. Water-loss concentration, biosynthesis, and biodegradation all occurred during dehydration, eventually modifying some volatiles significantly, especially some powerful odorants such as hexanal, trans-2-hexenal, 2-phenethyl acetate, β-myrcene, linalool, geraniol, cis-rose oxide, and β-damascenone. 1-Octen-3-ol was relatively stable during the non-destructive on-vine dehydration process and its content in grape juice was mainly determined by the concentration effect. 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, 2-phenethyl acetate, 2-methyl-1-propanol, and hexanol were screened as some of the most important metabolic markers to discriminate grapes at different dehydration degrees. Our study also highlights the fundamental importance of the expression of volatile content in the metabolomic study of grape berries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Berry Crop Flavoromics, Secondary Metabolism and Regulation)

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13 pages, 332 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Study of Primary and Secondary Metabolites of Stenospermocarpic, Parthenocarpic and Seeded Raisin Varieties

by Ozkan Kaya, Fadime Ates, Zeki Kara, Metin Turan and Gastón Gutiérrez-Gamboa

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111030 - 03 Nov 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1289

Abstract

(1) Background: Stenospermocarpic (Sultani Çekirdeksiz and Black Kishmish), parthenocarpic (Black Corinth), and seeded varieties (Ekşi Kara and Gök Üzüm) are used for raisin production. To our knowledge, there is little available information about the biochemical characteristics of raisins produced from these varieties. (2) [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Stenospermocarpic (Sultani Çekirdeksiz and Black Kishmish), parthenocarpic (Black Corinth), and seeded varieties (Ekşi Kara and Gök Üzüm) are used for raisin production. To our knowledge, there is little available information about the biochemical characteristics of raisins produced from these varieties. (2) Methods: Some metabolites, such as hormones, sugars, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, including enzymatic activity, were determined in different raisin varieties. (3) Results: Seedless raisin varieties presented higher content of several hormones, vitamins, and minerals, as antioxidant capacity than the raisins produced from seeded varieties. Contrary to this, seeded raisin varieties presented higher contents of most measured sugars and amino acids than the raisins produced from seedless varieties. (4) Conclusions: Biological mechanisms of pollination and fertilization induced modifications in the primary and secondary metabolism of grapes, considerably affecting biochemical compounds and the antioxidant capacity of raisins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Primary Production and Processing in Viticulture)

15 pages, 1714 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Using Sigmoid Growth Models to Simulate Greenhouse Tomato Growth and Development

by Shih-Lun Fang, Yu-Hsien Kuo, Le Kang, Chu-Chung Chen, Chih-Yu Hsieh, Min-Hwi Yao and Bo-Jein Kuo

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111021 - 02 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2494

Abstract

Mathematical modeling has been used to describe the characteristics of crop growth. Establishing a growth model can help to better understand the responses of crops to their environment and improve the efficiency of agricultural production. This study establishes empirical growth models to predict [...] Read more.

Mathematical modeling has been used to describe the characteristics of crop growth. Establishing a growth model can help to better understand the responses of crops to their environment and improve the efficiency of agricultural production. This study establishes empirical growth models to predict the growth of greenhouse tomato. In this study, we collected beef tomato (Solanum lycopersicum cv. ‘993′) growth data over two crop seasons in Taiwan and established growth models by employing the commonly used Gompertz and Logistic curves. Days after transplanting (DAT) and growing degree-days (GDD) were introduced as independent variables and their relationships with five traits, i.e., plant height, leaf area index, stem dry matter, leaves dry matter, and fruits dry matter were determined. The performances of GDD models were slightly better than those of the DAT models. In addition, we inferred five critical points with biological meaning based on the proposed growth models. The critical points estimated by the Logistic model are closer to our expectation than those of the Gompertz model, and they were applicable for the ‘993′ tomato in Taiwan. These results can be used to predict tomato growth and adjust the fieldwork schedule to improve the efficiency of the greenhouse production of tomatoes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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14 pages, 1951 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Relative Cleanability and Sanitization of Blueberry Mechanical Harvester Surfaces

by Renee M. Holland, Laurel L. Dunn, Jinru Chen, Himabindu Gazula, Jonathan E. Oliver and Harald Scherm

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111017 - 01 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1221

Abstract

Berry crops are increasingly being harvested mechanically to reduce labor costs, but there is a lack of research on best practices for cleaning and sanitizing of mechanical harvesters to maintain proper food hygiene. Laboratory experiments were conducted with surface coupons cut from materials [...] Read more.

Berry crops are increasingly being harvested mechanically to reduce labor costs, but there is a lack of research on best practices for cleaning and sanitizing of mechanical harvesters to maintain proper food hygiene. Laboratory experiments were conducted with surface coupons cut from materials commonly used on blueberry harvesters, including polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, aluminum, extruded polycarbonate, acetal plastic, and stainless steel. Surfaces differed in their hydrophobicity and surface roughness, ranging from 0.04 µm for polycarbonate to 1.57 µm for acetal plastic. The relative cleanability of the surface coupons was assessed by determining the removal of an applied mock soil (dried blueberry puree) in a rinsing-shaking assay with distilled water at room temperature. Results showed that the amount of soil removed increased over time according to a negative exponential function, from 29.6% at 30 s to 40.3% at 240 s rinse time. Compared with the time effect, the differences in soil removal among surfaces were relatively small. The addition of cleaning agents and detergents did not improve soil removal, and the only treatment that removed significantly more soil than the water control was heated (50 °C) distilled water. In sanitization assays, three representative microorganisms were allowed to attach to surface coupons, then exposed to three different sanitizers (0.25% bleach with 200 ppm free-chlorine sodium hypochlorite, 0.30% SaniDate 5.0, or 1.0% No-Rinse Food Contact Cleaner Sanitizer). There was no significant surface effect on microbial reductions following sanitizer treatment. For Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, none of the sanitizers significantly reduced population densities below the water control. In contrast, surface populations of Rhodoturula mucilaginosa and Epicoccum nigrum were reduced significantly by all three sanitizers, with SaniDate (23.0% hydrogen peroxide + 5.3% peroxyacetic acid) resulting in the greatest reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogen Control Strategies for Pre-/Post-harvest of Horticultural Plants and the Application of the Plant-Derived Substances for Microbial Risk Management)

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11 pages, 3411 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Altered brassinolide sensitivity1 Regulates Fruit Size in Association with Phytohormones Modulation in Tomato

by Muhammad Ali Mumtaz, Fangman Li, Xingyu Zhang, Jinbao Tao, Pingfei Ge, Ying Wang, Yaru Wang, Wenxian Gai, Haiqiang Dong and Yuyang Zhang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8111008 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1421

Abstract

BRs (Brassinosteroids) regulate many essential pathways related to growth, cell elongation, cell expansion, plant architecture, and fruit development. The potential exogenous application of BR-derivatives has been proven to stimulate plant growth and development, including quality attributes of fruits, whereas its biosynthesis inhibition has [...] Read more.

BRs (Brassinosteroids) regulate many essential pathways related to growth, cell elongation, cell expansion, plant architecture, and fruit development. The potential exogenous application of BR-derivatives has been proven to stimulate plant growth and development, including quality attributes of fruits, whereas its biosynthesis inhibition has shown the opposite effect. In this study, BR-insensitive tomato mutants were used to reveal the potential function of BR signaling in the regulation of fruit development to elaborate the regulatory mechanism of BR signaling in tomato fruits. The BR-signaling mutant exhibited a typical dwarf phenotype and reduced vegetative growth, fruit size, and weight. Microscopic and transcriptional evaluation of the abs1 mutant fruits implies that reduced cell size and number are responsible for the phenotypic variations. Additionally, we also found that the altered content of phytohormones, such as auxin, gibberellin, cytokinin, and ethylene levels, contributed to altered fruit development. Moreover, fruit growth and cell development-specific gene expression levels were downregulated in BR-insensitive plants; culminating in reduced cell size, cell number, and cell layers. These findings provide insight into physio-chemical changes during fruit development in response to BR-insensitivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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10 pages, 507 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Machine Learning Deciphers Genotype and Ammonium as Key Factors for the Micropropagation of Bryophyllum sp. Medicinal Plants

by Eva Lozano-Milo, Mariana Landin, Pedro Pablo Gallego and Pascual García-Pérez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8110987 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1404

Abstract

Bryophyllum constitutes a subgenus of succulent plants that have been widely employed worldwide in traditional medicine. Micropropagation is required to optimize their growth and reproduction for biotechnological purposes. The mineral composition of culture media is usually an underestimated factor in the design of [...] Read more.

Bryophyllum constitutes a subgenus of succulent plants that have been widely employed worldwide in traditional medicine. Micropropagation is required to optimize their growth and reproduction for biotechnological purposes. The mineral composition of culture media is usually an underestimated factor in the design of the in vitro culture protocols of medicinal plants. Universal and highly cited media mineral formulations, such as the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, are generally employed in plant tissue culture studies, although they cause physiological disorders due to their imbalanced mineral composition. In this work, neurofuzzy logic is proposed as a machine-learning-based tool to decipher the key factors (genotype, number of subcultures, and macronutrients) that are involved in the establishment of the Bryophyllum sp. in vitro culture. The results show that genotype played a key role, as it impacts both vegetative growth and asexual reproduction in all of the species that were studied. In addition, ammonium was identified as a significant factor, as concentrations above 15 mM promote a negative effect on vegetative growth and reproduction. These findings should be considered as the starting point for optimizing the establishment of the in vitro culture of Bryophyllum species, with large-scale applications as biofactories of health-promoting compounds, such as polyphenols and bufadienolides. Full article

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18 pages, 3925 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genome-Wide Identification, Cloning and Expression Profile of RanBP2-Type Zinc Finger Protein Genes in Tomato

by Yanna Gao, Ning Li, Jiaojiao Ruan, Ying Li, Xiaoli Liao and Changxian Yang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(11), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8110985 - 23 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1314

Abstract

The RanBP2-type zinc finger (RBZ) protein genes, which are well-characterized in animals, are involved in the regulation of mRNA processing. Although they are diversely distributed in plants, their functions still remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of [...] Read more.

The RanBP2-type zinc finger (RBZ) protein genes, which are well-characterized in animals, are involved in the regulation of mRNA processing. Although they are diversely distributed in plants, their functions still remain largely unknown. In this study, we performed a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of 22 RBZ genes in tomato. The gene structure analysis revealed that the SlRBZ genes have 2 to 17 exons. SlRBZ proteins contain typical conserved domains, including Motif 1 or Motif 2, or a combination of Motif 9 and Motif 4. Two paralogous pairs were identified in the tomato. Segmental duplication possibly contributed to the expansion of the SlRBZ genes in tomato. Interestingly, the SlRBZ15 gene generated four products, yielded by alternative splicing. A cis-regulatory element analysis revealed that SlRBZ genes might be involved in the complex regulatory networks during plant growth and development. The expression profiles of the SlRBZ genes were analyzed in different tissues using eight phytohormones and four abiotic stress treatments based on RNA sequencing data and qRT-PCR verification. The results showed that each gene responded differently to more than one phytohormone or abiotic stress type. This research provides a foundation for future functional research on SlRBZ genes in tomato. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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15 pages, 1290 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Biostimulant Application on Plant Growth, Chlorophylls and Hydrophilic Antioxidant Activity of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) Grown under Saline Stress

by Christophe El-Nakhel, Eugenio Cozzolino, Lucia Ottaiano, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Sabrina Nocerino, Maria Eleonora Pelosi, Youssef Rouphael, Mauro Mori and Ida Di Mola

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100971 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4626

Abstract

Irrigated agricultural lands are prone to salinity problems which may imperil horticultural crops by reducing growth, yield and even qualitative traits. Eco-friendly approaches such as biostimulant application and in particular protein hydrolysates from vegetal origin are implemented to mitigate salinity stress effects on [...] Read more.

Irrigated agricultural lands are prone to salinity problems which may imperil horticultural crops by reducing growth, yield and even qualitative traits. Eco-friendly approaches such as biostimulant application and in particular protein hydrolysates from vegetal origin are implemented to mitigate salinity stress effects on crops. For this reason, a greenhouse experiment on spinach irrigated with increasing concentrations of saline water (EC = 3 dS m⁻¹ (EC3), 6 dS m⁻¹ (EC6) and 9 dS m⁻¹ (EC9), in addition to non-saline treatment (EC0)) was organized, while plants were subjected to foliar applications of a protein hydrolysate from vegetal origin on a weekly basis. The application of this biostimulant helped mitigate the adverse effects of saline stress, by increasing the SPAD index and total chlorophylls of spinach plants. Yield was significantly boosted under biostimulant treatment in saline conditions and reached the value obtained in control treatment (no biostimulants added) × EC0 in the case of EC 3 and 6 dS m⁻¹. In addition, the number of leaves and plants m⁻¹ was increased under biostimulant treatment, and most importantly the hydrophilic antioxidant activity of spinach, thus a qualitative aspect of great importance was also increased. Such results increase the knowledge on the effects of protein hydrolysates application on an important leafy vegetable and may help growers mitigate saline conditions and maintain high crop yield and high quality of the final product when no other source of irrigation water is available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biostimulants and Plant Elicitors to Mitigate the Effect of Biotic and Abiotic Stress)

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14 pages, 2241 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Molybdenum Fertilizer Combined with Bacillus subtilis Strain on the Growth of Chinese Cabbage and the Content of Nitrate in Soil

by Yao Ma, Siwen Zhang, Jiawei Hu, Shiyong Chen and Juanjuan Wang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100970 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1477

Abstract

With increasing nitrogen application in soil, the problem of nitrate accumulation in soil and vegetable bodies has become increasingly serious. In this study, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) Strain11 was isolated and studied for its effects in combination with Molybdenum (Mo) on [...] Read more.

With increasing nitrogen application in soil, the problem of nitrate accumulation in soil and vegetable bodies has become increasingly serious. In this study, Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) Strain11 was isolated and studied for its effects in combination with Molybdenum (Mo) on the growth of Chinese cabbage and soil nitrate content. The results showed that the strain effectively increased the growth, height, and moisture content of Chinese cabbage by 27% and 2.5%, respectively, compared to the control. Mo application alone reduced soil nitrate accumulation and increased root length, height, chlorophyll content, and moisture content of Chinese cabbage, with an optimal rate of 0.8–1.2 mg/kg soil. The application of Mo fertilizer in combination with the Bacillus strain was the most effective in increasing plant height and root length of Chinese cabbage, which were 1.49 times and 1.68 times that of the control, respectively. The proportion of dry matter, the average fresh weight, and the dry weight under this treatment were 9.01%, 5.83 g/plant, and 0.53 g/plant, respectively, higher than the rest. At harvest, the highest ammonium-nitrogen content in this treatment group was 8.56 mg/kg, and the soil nitrate reduction reached 40.68%. In conclusion, Mo fertilizer at a rate of 0.8 mg Mo/kg soil, in combination with B. subtilis Strain11, was recommended for the remediation of nitrate-contaminated soils. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 4505 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transfer of Self-Fruitfulness to Cultivated Almond from Peach and Wild Almond

by Thomas M. Gradziel

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100965 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1926

Abstract

The almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] is normally self-sterile, requiring orchard placement of pollinizer cultivars and insect pollinators. Honeybees are the primary insect pollinators utilized, but climate change and the higher frequency of extreme weather events have reduced their availability to [...] Read more.

The almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] is normally self-sterile, requiring orchard placement of pollinizer cultivars and insect pollinators. Honeybees are the primary insect pollinators utilized, but climate change and the higher frequency of extreme weather events have reduced their availability to levels insufficient to meet the demands of current and anticipated almond acreage. The incorporation of self-fruitfulness may eliminate the need for both pollinizers and pollinators and allow the planting of single cultivar orchards that facilitate orchard management and reduce agrochemical inputs. Self-fruitfulness requires self-compatibility of self-pollen tube growth to fertilization, as well as a high level of consistent self-pollination or autogamy over the range of anticipated bloom environments. The Italian cultivar Tuono has been the sole source of self-compatibility for breeding programs world-wide, leading to high levels of inbreeding in current almond improvement programs. Both self-compatibility and autogamy have been successfully transferred to commercial almonds from cultivated peaches (Prunus persica L.), as well as wild peach and almond species. Self-compatibility was inherited as a novel major gene, but was also influenced by modifiers. Molecular markers developed for one species source often failed to function for other species’ sources. Autogamy was inherited as a quantitative trait. Breeding barriers were more severe in the early stages of trait introgression, but rapidly diminished by the second to third backcross. Increasing kernel size, which was similarly inherited as a quantitative trait, was a major regulator of the introgression rate. Self-fruitfulness, along with good commercial performance of tree and nut traits, was recovered from different species sources, including Prunus mira, Prunus webbii, P. persica, and the P. webbii-derived Italian cultivar Tuono. Differences in expression of self-fruitfulness were observed, particularly during field selection at the early growth stages. Introgression of self-fruitfulness from these diverse sources also enriched overall breeding germplasm, allowing the introduction of useful traits that are not accessible within traditional germplasm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Nut Crop Genetics and Germplasm Diversity)

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14 pages, 2045 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Yield, Antioxidant Activity and Total Polyphenol Content of Okra Fruits Grown in Slovak Republic

by Júlia Fabianová, Miroslav Šlosár, Tomáš Kopta, Andrea Vargová, Mária Timoracká, Ivana Mezeyová and Alena Andrejiová

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100966 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2258

Abstract

Climate change, linked with an increase in temperature, contributes to the possibility growing of non-typical and lesser-known vegetable species in the Slovak Republic, including okra. Seven okra cultivars were tested as part of this study, which focused on the basic yield parameters, antioxidant [...] Read more.

Climate change, linked with an increase in temperature, contributes to the possibility growing of non-typical and lesser-known vegetable species in the Slovak Republic, including okra. Seven okra cultivars were tested as part of this study, which focused on the basic yield parameters, antioxidant activity and total polyphenol content in okra fruits. The statistical analysis of obtained results revealed significant differences in all monitored parameters of okra. The selection of “plastic” crop cultivars that can produce a steadier yield in each growing year is required due to the significant climate variations between growing seasons. In this regard, the okra cultivar ‘Baby Bubba’ can be recommended. The results also showed the high antioxidant activity and polyphenol content of okra pulp and seeds. Okra has a higher nutritional quality than other vegetable species frequently grown in the Slovak Republic. Okra cultivars ‘Burgundy’, ‘Pure Luck F1′ and ‘Jing Orange’ can be suggested from a nutritional perspective. Finally, it is possible to state that okra cultivars showed good yield potential and nutritional quality compared to the studies realized in countries in which okra is known and commonly used by the human population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Fruits and Vegetables: Analysis and Biological Activities)

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12 pages, 1783 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effect of Harvest Date on Temporal Cannabinoid and Biomass Production in the Floral Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Cultivars BaOx and Cherry Wine

by Eric R. Linder, Sierra Young, Xu Li, Shannon Henriquez Inoa and David H Suchoff

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100959 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4152

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to model the temporal accumulation of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in field-grown floral hemp in North Carolina and establish harvest timing recommendations to minimize non-compliant crop production. Field trials were conducted in 2020 and 2021 with [...] Read more.

The objectives of this study were to model the temporal accumulation of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in field-grown floral hemp in North Carolina and establish harvest timing recommendations to minimize non-compliant crop production. Field trials were conducted in 2020 and 2021 with BaOx and Cherry Wine cultivars. Harvest events started two weeks after floral initiation and occurred every two weeks for 12 weeks. Per-plant threshed biomass accumulation exhibited a linear plateau trend. The best fit model for temporal accumulation of THC was a beta growth curve. As harvest date was delayed, total THC concentrations increased until concentrations reached their maximum, then decreased as plants approached senescence. Logistic regression was the best fit model for temporal accumulation of CBD. CBD concentrations increased with later harvest dates. Unlike THC concentrations, there was no decline in total CBD concentrations. To minimize risk, growers should test their crop as early as possible within the USDA’s 30-day compliance window. We observed ‘BaOx’ and ‘Cherry Wine’ exceeding the compliance threshold 50 and 41 days after flower initiation, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops)

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15 pages, 6032 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Functional Analysis of Glucose-6-Phosphate Translocator PoGPT1 in Embryogenic Callus Formation of Tree Peony

by Yinglong Song, Wenqian Shang, Zheng Wang, Songlin He, Yuke Sun, Liyun Shi, Yuxiao Shen and Dan He

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100957 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1500

Abstract

Tree peony (Paeonia ostii) is an ornamental flowering plant that is generally recalcitrant to establishment of a mature somatic embryo regeneration system in vitro. Glucose-6-phosphate translocator (GPT) plays an important regulatory role in embryogenesis of plants. In this study, PoGPT1 was [...] Read more.

Tree peony (Paeonia ostii) is an ornamental flowering plant that is generally recalcitrant to establishment of a mature somatic embryo regeneration system in vitro. Glucose-6-phosphate translocator (GPT) plays an important regulatory role in embryogenesis of plants. In this study, PoGPT1 was cloned, and a bioinformatic analysis and functional verification of the gene were performed. The results showed that PoGPT1 encoded a polypeptide of 392 amino acids, which was a basic non-secreted hydrophobic transmembrane protein, and was mainly localized in the plastids. PoGPT1 was highly expressed in tree peony leaves, and its transcript abundance increased with the progression of zygotic embryo development. Overexpression of PoGPT1 caused up-regulation of leafy cotyledon 1 (PoLEC1), somatic embryogenesis receptor-like kinase (PoSERK), and agamous-like15 (PoAGL15) in tree peony callus. In addition, PoGPT1 overexpression promoted the increase in indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), 5-deoxystrigol (5DS), and brassinolide (BL) contents, especially of IAA, but reduced the contents of abscisic acid (ABA), 6-benzyladenosine (BARP), and 1-aminocyclopropanecarboxylic acid (ACC). The present research showed that PoGPT1 synergistically regulated the contents of endogenous hormones and expression levels of embryogenesis-related genes to promote the embryonic development of tree peony. The results provide theoretical and technical support for the establishment of a tree peony embryogenic callus formation and subsequent research on somatic embryogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)

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15 pages, 2101 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A New Promising Plant Defense Stimulator Derived from a By-Product of Agar Extraction from Gelidium sesquipedale

by Rromir Koçi, Fabrice Dupuy, Salim Lebbar, Vincent Gloaguen and Céline Faugeron Girard

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100958 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1514

Abstract

Stimulation of plant defenses by elicitors is an alternative strategy to reduce pesticide use. In this study, we examined the elicitor properties of a by-product of the industrial extraction of agar from the red alga Gelidium sesquipedale. Agar extraction process leads to [...] Read more.

Stimulation of plant defenses by elicitors is an alternative strategy to reduce pesticide use. In this study, we examined the elicitor properties of a by-product of the industrial extraction of agar from the red alga Gelidium sesquipedale. Agar extraction process leads to the formation of an alkaline residue which is poorly valorized. This by-product has been analyzed for its chemical composition. It contains 44% minerals and, among the organic compounds, sugars are the most represented and encompass 12.5% of the dry matter. When sprayed on tomato plants, this by-product enhanced the levels of defense markers such as peroxidase or phenylalanine ammonia lyase activities. Furthermore, this treatment increased the expression levels of the pathogenesis-related gene, PR9 encoding peroxidase. A field trial conducted on grapevine revealed that spraying treatment with this by-product resulted in a reduction of the macroscopic disease symptoms induced by Plasmospora viticola, with 40 to 60% efficacy. These results indicate that this agar extraction by-product could be used as a plant defense stimulator. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Control Strategies of Plant Pathogens in Horticulture)

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17 pages, 1741 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antibiofilm and Anti-Insect Activities of Jasminum grandiflorum Essential Oil

by Lucia Galovičová, Natália Čmiková, Nenad Vukovic, Milena Vukic, Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski, Ladislav Bakay and Miroslava Kačániová

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100953 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3060

Abstract

The essential oil of Jasminum grandiflorum has very good biological activity. The present study aimed to analyze the chemical composition and biological activity of J. grandiflorum. The main constituents of J. grandiflorum essential oil were benzyl acetate (37%), benzyl benzoate (34.7%) and [...] Read more.

The essential oil of Jasminum grandiflorum has very good biological activity. The present study aimed to analyze the chemical composition and biological activity of J. grandiflorum. The main constituents of J. grandiflorum essential oil were benzyl acetate (37%), benzyl benzoate (34.7%) and linalool (9.6%). The antioxidant activity was 58.47%, which corresponds to 220.93 TEAC. The antimicrobial activity was weak to moderate, with inhibition zones ranging from 2.33 to 5.33 mm. The lowest MIC value was against Candida glabrata. The antimicrobial activity of the vapor phase of the essential oil was significantly stronger than that of the contact application. Biofilm analysis using a MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper showed changes in the protein profile of Pseudomonas fluorescens that confirmed the inhibitory effect of J. grandiflorum. The insecticidal potential of the essential oil against Oxycarenus lavatera and Brassicogethes aeneus was also demonstrated. Due to the properties of J. grandiflorum essential oil, it could find application as a biofilm control agent for the shelf-life extension and storage of fruits and vegetables and as a possible insecticidal agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)

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12 pages, 1754 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

High Nitrogen Fertilization Decreases Seed Weight but Increases Longevity in Tomato Seeds

by Javier Sánchez, Francisco Albornoz and Samuel Contreras

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100942 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1256

Abstract

Nitrogen fertilization is a key practice in agriculture and its effects on yield and quality of most commodity products are widely known. However, the response of seed production to N fertilization, especially with regard to its effects on seed quality, is still poorly [...] Read more.

Nitrogen fertilization is a key practice in agriculture and its effects on yield and quality of most commodity products are widely known. However, the response of seed production to N fertilization, especially with regard to its effects on seed quality, is still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of N fertilization on tomato seed yield and quality. Six quality attributes were assessed (weight, standard germination, germination rate under normal and adverse conditions, dormancy and longevity) in tomato cv. Moneymaker plants fertigated with one of three nutrient solutions differing in their N concentration: 5, 15 or 25 mM. Seed weight decreased by 4% with increasing N fertilization while standard germination and mean germination time did not vary among treatments, with average values of 89.7% and 6.2 days, respectively. The percentage and rate of germination decreased when seeds were imbibed in solutions with reduced osmotic potential; however, this effect was less pronounced in seeds from the 25 mM treatment, indicating a lower dormancy. When germination was evaluated after accelerated aging, seeds from the high N fertilization treatment showed greater longevity. These results contribute to optimizing fertilization practices for the production of high quality tomato seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies and Practices of Fertilization Management of Horticultural Crops)

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14 pages, 2617 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The SlSWEET12c Sugar Transporter Promotes Sucrose Unloading and Metabolism in Ripening Tomato Fruits

by Jiaqi Sun, Chaoyang Feng, Xin Liu and Jing Jiang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100935 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1854

Abstract

Sugar content is a primary determinant of taste and quality in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit. Sugar allocation from source to sink is dependent on the activity of plasma membrane sugar transporters and is a critical process in plant development. Sugar will [...] Read more.

Sugar content is a primary determinant of taste and quality in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) fruit. Sugar allocation from source to sink is dependent on the activity of plasma membrane sugar transporters and is a critical process in plant development. Sugar will eventually be exported transporters (SWEETs) are sugar transporters that play key roles in plant biology, including growth and development. However, few studies have been conducted on the tomato SWEET protein family to date. Through gene expression analysis, we found that SlSWEET12c had the highest expression during the red ripening stage of tomato fruits. Yeast functional complementation, subcellular localization, and GUS activity assays showed that SlSWEET12c is a plasma membrane-localized sugar transporter that accumulates in the vascular bundles, carpel, and sarcocarp. Silencing SlSWEET12c increased sucrose accumulation and reduced the number of hexoses in tomato fruits; the opposite effects were observed under SISWEET12c overexpression. Invertase activity was also decreased after silencing SISWEET12c. These results suggest that SlSWEET12c is a sugar transporter that promotes sucrose unloading and metabolism in ripening tomato fruits, offering a new target for improving tomato quality and production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genes, Genetics and Breeding of Tomato)

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23 pages, 2218 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tomato Landraces May Benefit from Protected Production—Evaluation on Phytochemicals

by Anna Divéky-Ertsey, Márta Ladányi, Barbara Biró, Mónika Máté, Dóra Drexler, Ferenc Tóth, Krisztina Boziné Pullai, Attila Gere, Péter Pusztai and László Csambalik

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100937 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1282

Abstract

Plant genetic resources (PGRs) serving as a wide genetic pool of tomato germplasm can provide a solid base for recent breeding efforts to increase consumer acceptance towards the taste and the phytonutrient properties of novel tomato varieties. Old varieties and landraces were abandoned [...] Read more.

Plant genetic resources (PGRs) serving as a wide genetic pool of tomato germplasm can provide a solid base for recent breeding efforts to increase consumer acceptance towards the taste and the phytonutrient properties of novel tomato varieties. Old varieties and landraces were abandoned by producers due to unfavorable phenotypic characteristics; however, their high adaptability and nutritional properties are inevitably valuable. This study aims to investigate the impact of open-field vs. protected production on various bioactive compound parameters and on the antioxidant status of seven indeterminate-type tomato PGRs in an organic production system for two years (2015–2016). Genotype main effect plus genotype × environment interaction (GGE) biplots were created for visualizing the which-won-where concept of the PGRs investigated. The GGE analysis revealed that the phytonutrient content of certain PGRs is less dependent on location and more influenced by differences in microclimatic conditions. “Balatonboglár”, “Mátrafüred” and “Fadd” PGRs performed better in a polytunnel, while Tarnaméra provided better results in an open field. “Máriapócs” and “San Marzano” showed a relative independence from production location in terms of their measured phytonutrient values. These findings enrich the nutritional datasets of tomato landraces, which support the in situ conservation and utilization of PGRs in breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)

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11 pages, 3688 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development of InDel Markers for Gypsophila paniculata Based on Genome Resequencing

by Chunlian Jin, Bin Liu, Jiwei Ruan, Chunmei Yang and Fan Li

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100921 - 07 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1442

Abstract

Gypsophila paniculata is the only species in the genus Gypsophila that has been used as cut flowers, and the sequencing of its genome has just been completed, opening a new chapter in its molecular genetic breeding. The molecular marker system is the basis [...] Read more.

Gypsophila paniculata is the only species in the genus Gypsophila that has been used as cut flowers, and the sequencing of its genome has just been completed, opening a new chapter in its molecular genetic breeding. The molecular marker system is the basis for genetic molecular research in the era of genomics, whereas it is still a gap for G. paniculata. In this study, we constructed a genome-wide InDel marker system of G. paniculata after genome resequencing of another wild-type accession with white flowers. Consequently, 407 InDel markers at a distance of ~2 Mb were designed for all 17 chromosomes. Later, the validation of these markers by PCR revealed that 289 markers could distinguish alleles of the two wild-type alleles clearly. The predicted polymorphisms of two wild-type alleles were then transferred to the commercial cultivars, which displayed a rich polymorphism among four commercial cultivars. Our research established the first genome-level genetic map in G. paniculata, providing a comprehensive set of marker systems for its molecular research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomic Analyses and New Breeding Technologies for the Enhancement of Horticultural Plants)

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19 pages, 1830 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Relieving the Phenotyping Bottleneck for Grape Bunch Architecture in Grapevine Breeding Research: Implementation of a 3D-Based Phenotyping Approach for Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping

by Florian Rist, Florian Schwander, Robert Richter, Jennifer Mack, Anna Schwandner, Ludger Hausmann, Volker Steinhage, Reinhard Töpfer and Katja Herzog

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100907 - 05 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1627

Abstract

In viticulture, winemakers and the industry demand grape bunches that have a reduced degree of bunch compactness. The major aspect is that a loose bunch compactness reduces the risk of severe Botrytis bunch-rot infections. Grapevine breeders focus hereby on several bunch-architecture-related traits. For [...] Read more.

In viticulture, winemakers and the industry demand grape bunches that have a reduced degree of bunch compactness. The major aspect is that a loose bunch compactness reduces the risk of severe Botrytis bunch-rot infections. Grapevine breeders focus hereby on several bunch-architecture-related traits. For specific breeding approaches and breeding-research-related topics, such as Quantitative Trait Locus (QTL) analysis or molecular marker development, the exact and objective phenotyping of such traits is mandatory. In this study, a precise and high-throughput 3D phenotyping pipeline was applied to screen 1514 genotypes from three mapping populations with different genetic backgrounds to investigate its applicability for QTL mapping approaches. In the first step, the phenotypic data of one population containing 150 genotypes were collected and analyzed with the 3D phenotyping pipeline. Additionally, corresponding reference data were obtained. Phenotypic values and results of a QTL analysis were compared with each other. Strongly positive correlations up to r = 0.93 between 3D and reference measurements could be detected for several traits. The ten-times-faster 3D phenotyping pipeline revealed 20, and the reference phenotyping methods revealed 22 QTLs. Eighteen of these QTLs were consistent between both procedures. In the next step, screening was extended to four different mapping populations across several seasons. In total, up to 1500 genotypes were screened during one season (>5000 grape bunches in total). The data analysis revealed significant differences across years and populations. Three bunch-architecture traits, including total berry volume, bunch width, and berry diameter, explained the highest amount of variability in the phenotypic data. A QTL analysis was performed on the phenotypic data of the involved populations to identify comparative genetic loci for bunch-architecture traits. Between 20 and 26 stable and reproducible QTLs for the investigated populations were detected. A common QTL for berry diameter could be identified for all populations. Our results strongly conclude that this locus is co-located on chromosome 17 when mapped to the grapevine reference genome. The results show that the implementation of the 3D phenotyping platform allows for precise and extended screenings of different, genetic diverse mapping populations and thus opens up the possibility to uncover the genomic architecture of this highly complex quantitative grapevine trait. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)

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15 pages, 1857 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transcriptome Remodeling in Response to Leaf Removal and Exogenous Abscisic Acid in Berries of Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) Fruit Cuttings

by Qian Tong, Li Liu, Yan Zhao, Junhua Kong, Yongjian Wang, Xiaobo Xu, Ghislaine Hilbert, Eric Gomès and Zhanwu Dai

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100905 - 03 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1719

Abstract

Climate change is known to simultaneously increase berry sugars but decrease anthocyanins, leading to an imbalance between sugars and anthocyanins in grape berries. To restore the balance of sugars and anthocyanins, carbon limitation by leaf removal and exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) were separately [...] Read more.

Climate change is known to simultaneously increase berry sugars but decrease anthocyanins, leading to an imbalance between sugars and anthocyanins in grape berries. To restore the balance of sugars and anthocyanins, carbon limitation by leaf removal and exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) were separately or simultaneously applied to Vitis vinifera cv. Cabernet Sauvignon fruit cuttings to decipher their effects on berry quality with metabolite and whole-genome transcriptome analyses. Carbon limitation decreased the hexose concentration and fully blocked the accumulation of anthocyanins. However, exogenous ABA increased the anthocyanin concentration under both carbon limitation and sufficient conditions. Carbon limitation and exogenous ABA induced the profound remodeling of the whole-genome transcriptome and altered the anthocyanin concentration by regulating the transcription levels of genes involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathways as well as in the genes involved in various types of hormone signaling. Moreover, two pertinent candidate genes were identified based on the co-expression network analysis between the berry metabolite and transcriptome results, including a transcriptional factor, ERF2, and a calcineurin B-like protein-interacting protein kinase gene, CIPK25. In summary, simultaneously modifying the carbon supply by leaf removal and spraying exogenous ABA could re-establish the balance between sugars and anthocyanins to improve the qualities of grape berries via whole-genome transcriptome remodeling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viticulture under Constantly Changing Climate Conditions)

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23 pages, 432 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Current Trends in Organic Vegetable Crop Production: Practices and Techniques

by Juan A. Fernández, Miren Edurne Ayastuy, Damián Pablo Belladonna, María Micaela Comezaña, Josefina Contreras, Isabel de Maria Mourão, Luciano Orden and Roberto A. Rodríguez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100893 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5889

Abstract

Organic farming is a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agroecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and consequently, it is an efficient and promising approach for sustainable agriculture within a circular and green economy. There has been [...] Read more.

Organic farming is a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agroecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles and soil biological activity, and consequently, it is an efficient and promising approach for sustainable agriculture within a circular and green economy. There has been a rise in the consumption of organic vegetables in the last years because of their organoleptic properties, higher nutritive value and lower risk of chemical residues harmful to health. The recent scientific evidence regarding the use of the major elements responsible for organic vegetable crop production indicates plant material, soil management and crop nutrition, soil disinfection, crop management and pest, disease and weed management. These techniques are the focus of this study. In general, the main outcomes of this review demonstrate that a great effort of innovation and research has been carried out by industry, researchers and farmers in order to reduce the environmental impact of the established and innovative horticultural practices while satisfying the requirements of consumers. However, research-specific studies should be carried out in different farming systems and pedoclimatic conditions to achieve the highest efficiency of these horticultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Organic Farming of Vegetable Crops in Greenhouse and Open Field Systems)

13 pages, 2859 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Late Ripening Apple Production Benefits from High Shading and Water Limitation under Exclusion Netting

by Alexandra Boini, Gianmarco Bortolotti, Giulio Demetrio Perulli, Melissa Venturi, Alessandro Bonora, Luigi Manfrini and Luca Corelli-Grappadelli

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100884 - 27 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1486

Abstract

In highly solar irradiated areas, apple production can face challenges due to high evaporative water demands. Shading can be used to lower irrigation requirements and make apple growing more sustainable. In this trial, a white exclusion net (40% shading) integrated with rain protection [...] Read more.

In highly solar irradiated areas, apple production can face challenges due to high evaporative water demands. Shading can be used to lower irrigation requirements and make apple growing more sustainable. In this trial, a white exclusion net (40% shading) integrated with rain protection was compared with a regular anti-hail black net (20% shading), on Rosy Glow apple. Crop physiology, yield and quality parameters were monitored during two consecutive years, under conditions of full and restricted irrigation. Since Et₀ under the two cover systems was different, their respective 100% irrigation replacement was different; both covers also received a restricted irrigation treatment (70% replacement of Et₀). Tree physiology (midday stem water potential, leaf gas exchanges, seasonal fruit growth) was not affected, neither by less light nor by less water. Moreover, marketable yield, fruit color and soluble solid content were improved under the more shaded environment, even when the irrigation volume was limited. These results are encouraging, as an overall 50% of water was saved (ca. 190 mm tree⁻¹ per year), compared to the control irrigation treatment, under a classic anti-hail system (ca. 370 mm tree⁻¹ per year). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Management of Fruit Trees)

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20 pages, 3323 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Current Approaches to Light Conversion for Controlled Environment Agricultural Applications: A Review

by Mark O. Paskhin, Denis V. Yanykin and Sergey V. Gudkov

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100885 - 27 Sep 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2757

Abstract

Modern agriculture cannot be imagined without the introduction of smart and efficient technologies. These, undoubtedly, include technologies for directed regulation of the illumination of agricultural plants. Depending on the climatic conditions of cultivation, farmers shade or additionally illuminate the plants, and also change [...] Read more.

Modern agriculture cannot be imagined without the introduction of smart and efficient technologies. These, undoubtedly, include technologies for directed regulation of the illumination of agricultural plants. Depending on the climatic conditions of cultivation, farmers shade or additionally illuminate the plants, and also change the spectrum of the light reaching the plants. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of solar light conversion methods and approaches for agricultural applications and discuss their advantages and limitations. Full article

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14 pages, 2864 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of Selected Biological and Chemical Treatments against Soil-Borne Diseases of Ginger in High Tunnel Production

by Zelalem Mersha and Michael A. Ibarra-Bautista

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100870 - 22 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1746

Abstract

With its multifaceted health benefits, ginger is one of the commonly consumed dietary condiments with continued demand worldwide leading to more importation into countries such as the U.S. The rhizome of ginger, the seed-piece but also the edible portion, is highly vulnerable to [...] Read more.

With its multifaceted health benefits, ginger is one of the commonly consumed dietary condiments with continued demand worldwide leading to more importation into countries such as the U.S. The rhizome of ginger, the seed-piece but also the edible portion, is highly vulnerable to pathogen infections causing seed-piece and soil-borne diseases (SSDs). Laboratory and high tunnel (HT) studies were conducted between 2018 and 2020 to evaluate the effect of soil and transplant drenches of selected biocontrol agents (BCAs) and chemicals. In vitro dual-culture tests revealed that the Trichoderma harzianum strain T-22 (Th-22) grew significantly faster than Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. zingiberi (Foz), the fungus causing yellows and rhizome rot in ginger. Th-22 grew more than three times faster than Foz within 3 days and engulfed the pathogen within 7 days when incubated at 30 °C. The bioproducts (RootShield^® Plus, LifeGard^®), an insecticide/nematicide (Vydate^®) and disinfectant (10% Clorox) tested against Foz and any pre-existing pathogens in a HT significantly reduced severity of yellowing and rhizome rot when compared with the non-treated control. Yield was significantly higher for RootShield^® Plus compared to the control in one of the trials. Spatially, declining ginger growth but an increased incidence of SSDs were observed as one walked from the door towards the back of the HT. Phospho-lipid fatty acid analysis showed better microbial activity on soils that received drenches of BCAs than on soils sampled pre-treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Pathology and Disease Management (PPDM))

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14 pages, 2292 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects and Benefits of Orchid Mycorrhizal Symbionts on Dendrobium officinale

by Yifan Zhang, Wenwen Huo, Jiayi Hou, Lei Liu, Xiaoying Yu and Lu Xu

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 861; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100861 - 21 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1946

Abstract

Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo, a highly valued Chinese herbal medicine, is on the verge of extinction in the wild, and is not cultivated efficiently. In this study, we explored the possibility that orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) might improve the growth and cultivation [...] Read more.

Dendrobium officinale Kimura et Migo, a highly valued Chinese herbal medicine, is on the verge of extinction in the wild, and is not cultivated efficiently. In this study, we explored the possibility that orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) might improve the growth and cultivation of D. officinale. Serendipita sp., Tulasnella calospora and Tulasnella asymmetrica isolated from three different orchids were co-cultured with sterile seedlings of D. officinale. The seedlings were found to stably coexist with fungi after 60 days of co-culture. The co-culture of T. calospora with plants upregulated the activity of antioxidant enzymes, stimulated the production of osmoregulatory substances and reduced electrical conductivity. Plants with T. calospora had longer roots (141.2%), thicker leaves (58.3%), increased root number (71.4%) and leaf number (11.1%), and increased weight (155.2%) and photosynthetic pigment content (99.6%), relative to controls. The content of total medicinal polysaccharides increased by 42.69 % due to the addition of T. calospora. T. asymmetrica was less effective, followed by Serendipita sp. When T. calospora established a symbiotic relationship with D. officinale, resistance indicators increased. The content of functional components was significantly increased. This study contributes to the protection and commercial reproduction of endangered orchid plants with mycorrhizal technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medicinals, Herbs, and Specialty Crops)

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13 pages, 1256 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Iron Biofortification of Greenhouse Cherry Tomatoes Grown in a Soilless System

by Camila Vanessa Buturi, Silvia Renata Machado Coelho, Claudio Cannata, Federico Basile, Francesco Giuffrida, Cherubino Leonardi and Rosario Paolo Mauro

Horticulturae 2022, 8(10), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8100858 - 20 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2316

Abstract

Iron (Fe) biofortification is a strategy to increase the amount of iron in food crops. The goal of this work was to assess the possibility of maximizing the Fe content in cherry tomatoes grown in a soilless system. The cultivar Creativo was grown [...] Read more.

Iron (Fe) biofortification is a strategy to increase the amount of iron in food crops. The goal of this work was to assess the possibility of maximizing the Fe content in cherry tomatoes grown in a soilless system. The cultivar Creativo was grown with three concentrations of Fe (as Fe-HBED) in the nutrient solution (0.022, 1, and 2 mmol L⁻¹), and received further foliar applications of the element (as Fe-DTPA) at 0, 250, and 500 µmol L⁻¹. The addition of 2 mmol Fe L⁻¹ to the nutrient solution, together with foliar sprays at 500 µmol Fe L⁻¹, induced the highest increase in fruit Fe concentration in clusters 1 and 2 (by 163% and 190%, respectively). The Fe added to the nutrient solution increased the fruit dry matter (up to +10.21%) but decreased the fruit’s fresh weight (up to −11.06%). The higher Fe concentrations provided to the crop synergistically increased the contents of other minerals (i.e., K, Mg, Na, and Zn), along with the fruit’s titratable acidity and soluble solids content, improving multiple functional and quality traits of the cherry tomatoes. These results show that Fe biofortification of cherry tomatoes can be effective to address Fe deficiency while obtaining high-quality products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetable Biofortification: Strategies, Benefits and Challenges)

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20 pages, 4830 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Functional Characterization of Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis L.) CsCBF2 Gene Involved in Multiple Abiotic Stress Response in Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)

by Qiying Zhou, Dongxiao Liu, Yiwan Wei, Ning Ma, Ruijiao Zhang, Zengya Zhang, Changjun Jiang and Hongyu Yuan

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090853 - 19 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1504

Abstract

C-repeat binding factors/dehydration responsive element binding factors 1 (CBFs/DREB1s) are a small family of transcription factors that play important roles in plant resistance to various external stresses. However, functional characterization of tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) CBF gene (CsCBF) was [...] Read more.

C-repeat binding factors/dehydration responsive element binding factors 1 (CBFs/DREB1s) are a small family of transcription factors that play important roles in plant resistance to various external stresses. However, functional characterization of tea plant (Camellia sinensis L.) CBF gene (CsCBF) was still seldom reported. Here, functional study of the cold-responsive CBF gene (CsCBF2) was done. Results showed that CsCBF2 had conserved AP2 DNA-binding domain and the typical PKK/RPAGRxKFxETRHP and DSAWR signature sequences of CBF/DREB1. Yeast one-hybrid and transcription activation assays revealed that the activation domain of CsCBF2 could activate the reporter gene expression, and the N terminal of CsCBF2 displayed an inhibitory effect. Although CsCBF2 was conserved to bind the C-repeat/dehydration-responsive element (CRT/DRE), intact CsCBF2 protein preferred the CRT cis element. Under normal growth conditions, CsCBF2-overexpressing tobacco plants (CsCBF2-OX) exhibited lighter green leaf color, growth retardation, and dwarfism. Smaller leaf of CsCBF2-OX was only seen in eight weeks after been sown in soil. Under cold, salinity, or drought stress, CsCBF2-OX displayed better growing with longer roots, heavier fresh weight, higher germination rate, and accumulated more proline and sugar contents, but lower electrolyte leakage. The results demonstrated that CsCBF2 enhanced plant tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Tea Plant Biology and Tea Quality Regulation)

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19 pages, 4151 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Study of Different Crassulaceae Species for Their Potential Use as Plant Covers to Improve Thermal Performance of Green Roofs

by Gonzalo Gurrea-Ysasi, Vicente Blanca-Giménez, Pascual Fernández de Córdova, Carles Cortés-Olmos, Adrián Rodríguez-Burruezo and Inmaculada C. Fita

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090846 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1423

Abstract

The presence of green roofs in urban areas improves the energy efficiency of buildings; contributes to the capture of CO₂, decreasing pollution; and improves the appearance of cities, increasing their sustainability. Additionally, green roofs must include plant species with low requirements [...] Read more.

The presence of green roofs in urban areas improves the energy efficiency of buildings; contributes to the capture of CO₂, decreasing pollution; and improves the appearance of cities, increasing their sustainability. Additionally, green roofs must include plant species with low requirements and maintenance, and thus, succulent species could be useful in Mediterranean semi-arid regions. In this work, the thermal inertia and the effect of different succulent species as thermal barriers on mitigating the increase in temperature inside experimental compartments were studied in comparison to conventional covers used in the Spanish Mediterranean for a whole year. In general, green covers were more efficient than conventional ones for controlling temperature. Thus, temperatures under green covers were up to 8 °C lower than conventional covers and 3–5 °C lower than the ambient temperature at noon on summer days. Furthermore, significant differences were found between green covers. Thus, despite having high thermal inertia, Aptenia cordifolia showed the worst temperature records, while Aeonium arboreum was the most efficient at mitigating temperature changes both on cold winter nights and hot summer days—even better than Sedum spp., a usual succulent used commercially. Our results demonstrate that succulent species are efficient materials to use as green covers to improve thermal conditions in buildings in Mediterranean cities. This also suggests that the mixture of succulent species (i.e., not only made of Sedum spp.) with different colors and textures could beautify green roofs without compromising their energy efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Roofs, Green Walls, Urban Greenhouses and Hi-Tech City Landscape for Sustainability)

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17 pages, 13985 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of Fruit Quality and Genes Related to Proanthocyanidins Biosynthesis and Stress Resistance in Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.)

by Sichao Yang, Meng Zhang, Ming Zeng, Meihua Wu, Qinglin Zhang, Zhengrong Luo and Xinlong Hu

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 844; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090844 - 14 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1650

Abstract

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) is becoming a fruit that is used worldwide because it contains high nutritional and medicinal value. However, the trait evaluation of persimmon is still needed and is critical for marketing and breeding, especially in China. Here, we evaluated [...] Read more.

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) is becoming a fruit that is used worldwide because it contains high nutritional and medicinal value. However, the trait evaluation of persimmon is still needed and is critical for marketing and breeding, especially in China. Here, we evaluated thirteen quality indicators (fruit weight, horizontal length, vertical length, firmness, titratable acid content, vitamin C content, flavonoid content, anthocyanin content, soluble sugar content, pectinase activity, soluble protein content, tannin content, and tannin cell size) in six Chinese pollination-constant, astringent (PCA) persimmon cultivars (‘Jinxi 3′, ‘Ganfang 1′, ‘Poyang 5′, ‘Poyang 6′, ‘Yifeng 1′, and ‘Yifeng 3′) and a Japanese pollination-constant non-astringent (PCNA) persimmon cultivar (‘Youhou’). The quality indicator data were normalized and subjected to variant analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that 10 of 13 indicators among the seven persimmon cultivars were significantly different, and the contribution rates of the first principal component reached 40.582%. The principal component comprehensive scores for ‘Poyang 5′ and ‘Ganfang 1′ ranked second and third, respectively, and were clustered with that of ‘Youhou.’ In addition, we also measured the expression levels of three stress resistance genes and three proanthocyanidin (PA, also called condensed tannins) pathway genes in these persimmon cultivars by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT—PCR). The qRT—PCR analysis of DkCBF and DkWRKY3/8 showed low resistance to cold in ‘Ganfang 1′ but stronger resistance to anthracnose. Moreover, the expression of the PA pathway genes demonstrated that the PA content in ‘Ganfang 1′ was at a moderate level in the seven varieties. Together, our study revealed relatively comprehensive profiles of persimmon quality evaluation and demonstrated that ‘Ganfang 1′ may have the potential to be used as a breeding parent for future persimmon breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Epigenetic Modifications and Breeding Application in Horticultural Plants)

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16 pages, 1193 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Jasmonic Acid and Salicylic Acid Levels in Defense Response of Azalea (Rhododendron simsii Hybrid) to Broad Mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus)

by Leen Leus, Gil Luypaert, Emmy Dhooghe, Johan Witters, Els Pauwels, Christof Van Poucke, Els Van Pamel, Johan Van Huylenbroeck and Joachim Audenaert

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090840 - 13 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1674

Abstract

The broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks)) is an important pest in many crops, including azalea (Rhododendron simsii Planch. hybrid). Broad mites cause the malformation of shoot tips, leaves and flowers in azalea. It is known that the jasmonic acid (JA)- and [...] Read more.

The broad mite (Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks)) is an important pest in many crops, including azalea (Rhododendron simsii Planch. hybrid). Broad mites cause the malformation of shoot tips, leaves and flowers in azalea. It is known that the jasmonic acid (JA)- and salicylic acid (SA)-dependent signaling pathways are related to the presence of herbivorous mites. Here, we describe the levels of the two main plant defense-related hormones, SA and JA, in mite-infested plants. The plant hormones were analyzed using liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). We studied both short-term hormonal responses under controlled conditions with artificial inoculation, and long-term responses under culture conditions with natural infestation. The long-term development of broad mite populations and hormone response were studied during two subsequent growing seasons on 3 and 18 different cultivars, respectively. During the experiments on 18 azalea cultivars under natural infestation, the presence of different species of tarsonemid mites was also examined. JA concentrations only showed variation in the early phase of infestation. Subsequently, the SA levels increased significantly for all the cultivars where broad mites were detected. Based on the observed timing of the defense responses, we suggest that the interaction of the JA and SA pathways as a defense response for pot azalea against P. latus involves a primary plant response through the JA pathway. In the presence of the mites, the production of SA increased in the plants in a later phase as the P. latus population grew. Our results also show that the hormone response depends on type of mite. Changes in hormone levels were found upon infestation with P. latus, but not in the presence of another frequently occurring tarsonemid mite, Tarsonemus confusus Ewing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancement in Propagation, Breeding, Cultivation and Marketing of Ornamentals)

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8 pages, 639 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) Response to Incremental Application Rates of Potassium Fertilizer in Mississippi

by Lorin M. Harvey, Mark W. Shankle, Callie J. Morris, Mark A. Hall, Amitava Chatterjee and Kelsey M. Harvey

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 831; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090831 - 09 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

Potassium (K) fertilization is a crucial component of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) production. The basis for K fertilizer recommendations in sweet potato production varies greatly and relies on studies conducted in the late 1950s–1970s. Changes in agronomic practices and increasing [...] Read more.

Potassium (K) fertilization is a crucial component of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) production. The basis for K fertilizer recommendations in sweet potato production varies greatly and relies on studies conducted in the late 1950s–1970s. Changes in agronomic practices and increasing costs emphasize the need to revisit fertilizer recommendations. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of seven different K fertilizer (K₂O) application rates on sweet potato storage root yield, tissue K concentration, and economic implications in Mississippi. Incremental applications of K fertilizer did not influence sweet potato yield at any grade. Leaf tissue K concentration exhibited a quadratic trend in response to K fertilizer rate, with maximum leaf and root K content achieved at 269 and 404 kg·ha⁻¹ K₂O, respectively. Both the predicted K application rate for maximum yield and maximum profitability were the same, at 174 kg·ha⁻¹ K₂O. Accordingly, comparable sweet potato yields were achieved while applying substantially less fertilizer than the recommended rate. Further research is warranted to examine the impacts of only potassium fertilizer applications on soil characteristics and temporal trends in sweet potato potassium uptake, as well as refine fertilization recommendations for sweet potato production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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15 pages, 2272 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Germination Kinetics and Chlorophyll Fluorescence Imaging Allow for Early Detection of Alkalinity Stress in Rhododendron Species

by Shusheng Wang, Leen Leus, Peter Lootens, Johan Van Huylenbroeck and Marie-Christine Van Labeke

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 823; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090823 - 07 Sep 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1526

Abstract

Rhododendron species are typical calcifuges that do not grow well in calcareous soils characterized by alkaline pH and high concentrations of Ca²⁺. In this study, we investigated the effects of three pH levels and a Ca²⁺ treatment on the in [...] Read more.

Rhododendron species are typical calcifuges that do not grow well in calcareous soils characterized by alkaline pH and high concentrations of Ca²⁺. In this study, we investigated the effects of three pH levels and a Ca²⁺ treatment on the in vitro germination and seedling growth of three Rhododendron species: R. chihsinianum, R. fortunei, and R. vernicosum. Alkaline pH had no significant effect on germination parameters (g_MAX, mean germination time and germination uniformity) but significantly increased abnormal leaf development (AL) and mortality in all three species. Adding extra Ca²⁺ reduced the mean germination time for R. vernicosum. The negative influence of alkaline pH on seedlings was already visible on the second day of treatment as measured by chlorophyll fluorescence imaging parameters (F_v/F_m and Φ_PSII) on R. fortunei. Extra Ca²⁺ alleviated the negative effect of alkaline pH and increased F_v/F_m 41 days after seed germination in R. fortunei and R. chihsinianum and reduced mortality for all three species. In conclusion, alkaline pH mainly influenced seedling development and growth but not the germination process itself. Chlorophyll fluorescence imaging can be an efficient way to perform high-throughput in vitro screening of Rhododendron seedlings for alkalinity tolerance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ornamental Plant Cultivation and Physiology)

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11 pages, 1909 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Relative Sensitivity of Marigold vs. Tomato to Iron (Fe) Toxicity Is Associated with Root Traits: Root-to-Shoot Mass Ratio, Failure to Sequester Fe in Roots, and Levels of the Major Fe-Uptake Protein, IRT

by Emina Kostic, Scott Heckathorn, Aaron Bagrowski, J. Thomas Franklin and Jennifer Boldt

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090803 - 02 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1586

Abstract

Some plants are susceptible to iron (Fe) toxicity, resulting in excess leaf Fe, followed by photo-oxidative damage and necrosis. Avoidance of Fe toxicity should relate to root Fe-uptake properties, including the concentration of Fe-uptake proteins, which are rarely measured. Therefore, we compared responses [...] Read more.

Some plants are susceptible to iron (Fe) toxicity, resulting in excess leaf Fe, followed by photo-oxidative damage and necrosis. Avoidance of Fe toxicity should relate to root Fe-uptake properties, including the concentration of Fe-uptake proteins, which are rarely measured. Therefore, we compared responses to Fe toxicity in marigold (Tagetes erecta), a species prone to Fe toxicity, with tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) to determine which root responses were related to Fe-toxicity sensitivity. Plants were grown at 5, 50, and 500 µM Fe. Biomass decreased at 50 and/or 500 vs. 5 µM Fe in both species, with leaf necrosis occurring in marigold. Fe uptake per g root increased with increasing Fe in both species. Root and shoot Fe increased with Fe availability, with Fe much higher in roots than in shoots. Root Fe was higher in tomato, but shoot Fe was higher in marigold. Root protein levels of IRT, the main Fe transporter, decreased from 5 to 50 µM Fe in both species, but further decreased at 500 µM Fe only in tomato. In contrast, responses of secondary Fe-uptake proteins, FRO and H⁺-ATPase, were similar in the two species. Marigold was likely more susceptible to Fe toxicity because it could not prevent Fe transport to, and accumulation in, leaves; and its sensitivity to high Fe corresponded to a limited capacity to down-regulate IRT as available Fe increased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plant Nutrition, Fertilization, Soil Management)

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17 pages, 2592 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biofortification of Lettuce and Basil Seedlings to Produce Selenium Enriched Leafy Vegetables

by Martina Puccinelli, Fernando Malorgio, Lucia Pintimalli, Irene Rosellini and Beatrice Pezzarossa

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 801; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090801 - 01 Sep 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1753

Abstract

Selenium (Se) biofortification of plants has been recognized as a good strategy to improve the nutritive value of vegetables and increase Se daily intake in humans. Identifying the most appropriate method to enrich plants is a key issue in the biofortification process. We [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) biofortification of plants has been recognized as a good strategy to improve the nutritive value of vegetables and increase Se daily intake in humans. Identifying the most appropriate method to enrich plants is a key issue in the biofortification process. We tested a biofortification technique that produces Se enriched seedlings for transplant, yet barely modifies conventional cultivation techniques. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) were exposed to selenium by adding 0, 1 and 3 mg L⁻¹ (lettuce) and 0, 2 and 3 mg L⁻¹ (basil) of Se, as sodium selenate, to the growing substrate immediately after sowing. When seedlings reached an appropriate size, they were transplanted into the open field, and plants were grown until maturity. Lettuce and basil seedlings accumulated selenium without any reduction in leaf biomass at maturity. The highest dose of Se induced a higher antioxidant capacity and flavonoid content in both species at both sampling times. At maturity, biofortified plants still showed a higher leaf Se content compared to the control, and would be able to provide from 10% to 17% (lettuce) and from 9% to 12% (basil) of the adequate intake (AI) of Se. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vegetable Biofortification: Strategies, Benefits and Challenges)

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16 pages, 4416 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Leaf Volatiles and Relevant Gene Expression as the Specific Characteristics in Citrus depressa Accession Discrimination

by Shu-Yen Lin, Yung-Yu Liao and Po-An Chen

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 773; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090773 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1712

Abstract

Citrus depressa Hayata is the native and widespread citrus species in Taiwan. The notable character is that C. depressa has a distinct aroma different from local citrus. The ex situ germplasm of scions from different collection regions has variant leaf shapes and [...] Read more.

Citrus depressa Hayata is the native and widespread citrus species in Taiwan. The notable character is that C. depressa has a distinct aroma different from local citrus. The ex situ germplasm of scions from different collection regions has variant leaf shapes and different odor characteristics. Establishing volatile biomarkers for classifying the local C. depressa is beneficial to commercial development. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) of fresh leaves from seven C. depressa accessions which were collected from different locations in Taiwan were extracted by headspace solid-phase microextraction and analyzed by GC-MS. The volatile compositions from each season showed the diversity, and linalool, of which the average relative content is 52.7%, was the most volatile component in any season. The other main VOCs of leaves of C. depressa were γ-terpinene, limonene, β-ocimene, and α-terpineol. The result of linear discriminant analysis by VOC markers shows that there are two main different types which are (1) accessions from the central and the east of Taiwan and (2) accessions which are closer to C. depressa in Okinawa, Japan. Five major VOC-related synthase genes were selected and the gene expression was used to classify the varieties. The clustering result is the same with VOC-based discrimination. Our results reveal leaf volatile profiling is capable of being the discrimination markers, and the possibility for constructing molecular markers is directly related to characteristics from secondary metabolites phenotyping. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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16 pages, 3035 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Inheritance of Apple (Malus × domestica (L.) Borkh) Resistance against Apple Scab (Venturia inaequalis (Cooke) Wint.) in Hybrid Breeding Material Obtained by Gene Pyramiding

by Kristīne Zelmene, Katrīna Kārkliņa, Laila Ikase and Gunārs Lācis

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090772 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2215

Abstract

Apple scab caused by the pathogenic fungus Venturia inaequalis causes significant damage to apples. The creation of apple-scab resistant varieties is considered an alternative to pesticide-based management. To evaluate R gene inheritance, 862 apple hybrid samples were analyzed and divided into populations depending [...] Read more.

Apple scab caused by the pathogenic fungus Venturia inaequalis causes significant damage to apples. The creation of apple-scab resistant varieties is considered an alternative to pesticide-based management. To evaluate R gene inheritance, 862 apple hybrid samples were analyzed and divided into populations depending on the resistance genes (Rvi6 and Rvi5) present in the parents’ genotypes and their combinations. The field evaluation was carried out in 2016–2018 using the international VINQUEST scab evaluation methodology, but the genes were identified using specific scab resistance-gene molecular markers. Parent plants were genotyped using 22 SSR markers. The study determined that the field resistance of apple scab is influenced not only by the resistance genes present in the genotype but also by the genetic background of the apple cultivar, the tree’s general health status and resistance to other diseases. It was found that the apple scab resistance genes Rvi6 (Vf) and Rvi5 (Vm) are inherited according to Mendelian laws, and when both genes are pyramided in offspring, they are inherited as separate genes. In general, the inheritance of both genes in the offspring is not a determining factor for apple field resistance, as field resistance to scab is influenced by a combination of several factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))

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15 pages, 4484 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Precooling and Cold Storage Methods for Fruits and Vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa—A Review

by Edna Makule, Noel Dimoso and Savvas A. Tassou

Horticulturae 2022, 8(9), 776; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8090776 - 26 Aug 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 11663

Abstract

Fruits and vegetables, known for their large nutrient potential, are more susceptible to high postharvest loss than other crops. Factors such as perishability, poor post-production handling and storage and processing infrastructures, increase the magnitude of food losses. The postharvest loss of fruits and [...] Read more.

Fruits and vegetables, known for their large nutrient potential, are more susceptible to high postharvest loss than other crops. Factors such as perishability, poor post-production handling and storage and processing infrastructures, increase the magnitude of food losses. The postharvest loss of fruits and vegetables in Sub-Saharan Africa ranges from 30% to 50%. One key strategy to overcome such losses is through cold chain integration in value chains. However, most developing countries currently lack the basic infrastructure and management skills needed to support the development of integrated cold chains, particularly in rural areas, where up to 60% of overall food losses occur on the farm and in ‘first-mile’ distribution. Storage of highly perishable produce in a controlled environment with respect to temperature and relative humidity leads to quality and quantity preservation. This contributes to increases in food and nutrition security, household incomes and environmental protection. This review addresses the need for adopting and strengthening measures for the precooling and cold storage of fruits and vegetables to improve their value chains. A range of precooling and cold storage methods, their suitability, energy demands and the constraints on storage and distribution are discussed and recommendations are made on how to improve their accessibility for small-scale farmers in rural communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Postharvest Biology, Quality, Safety, and Technology)

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24 pages, 1793 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Antimicrobial Multiresistant Phenotypes of Genetically Diverse Pseudomonas spp. Isolates Associated with Tomato Plants in Chilean Orchards

by Pamela Córdova, Juan Pablo Rivera-González, Victoria Rojas-Martínez, Pablo Villarreal, Alan Zamorano, Nicola Fiore, Daniel San Martín, Francisca Vera, Eduardo Gálvez, Jaime Romero, Jaime Barrueto, Carolina Ilabaca-Díaz and Gastón Higuera

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 750; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080750 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2245

Abstract

Tomatoes are susceptible to bacterial diseases, mainly related to some Pseudomonas syringae pathovars. Many Pseudomonas species are considered innocuous, but some have shown the ability to opportunistically infect tomato plants. Antimicrobial compounds have been used to control pathogenic organisms, and this can lead [...] Read more.

Tomatoes are susceptible to bacterial diseases, mainly related to some Pseudomonas syringae pathovars. Many Pseudomonas species are considered innocuous, but some have shown the ability to opportunistically infect tomato plants. Antimicrobial compounds have been used to control pathogenic organisms, and this can lead to environmental selection of phenotypically resistant bacteria. We assessed the diversity of Pseudomonas species associated with tomato plants from Chilean orchards and analyzed antimicrobial resistance among the isolated strains. A total of 64 Pseudomonas isolates (P. syringae, P. viridiflava, P. fluorescens, P. koreensis, P. gessardii, and P. azotoformans) were evaluated for their phenotypic resistance to seven antimicrobial compounds, including copper, streptomycin, and five other antibiotics typically not used in agriculture. The results showed that 95%, 86%, 70%, 53%, 45%, and 1.6% of the isolates were resistant to rifampin, ampicillin, copper, chloramphenicol, streptomycin, and tetracycline, respectively, with no isolates being resistant to gentamicin. A total of 96.9% of Pseudomonas isolates exhibited a multiresistant phenotype to at least two of the antimicrobials tested. The most frequent multiresistance phenotype was Cu-Str-Amp-Cm-Rif (23.4%). The presence of Pseudomonas strains tolerant to conventional bactericides, metals, and other antimicrobials makes these bacteria an emerging threat to the agriculture industry and to human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial Diseases in Horticulture: Advances in the Study of Pathogens, Interaction with the Host, Diagnosis and Sustainable Control)

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18 pages, 2533 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cleaning of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) from Contaminated Clothing of Greenhouse Employees

by Jens Ehlers, Shaheen Nourinejhad Zarghani, Bärbel Kroschewski, Carmen Büttner and Martina Bandte

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 751; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080751 - 19 Aug 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4433

Abstract

The highly infectious Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a new viral threat to tomato production worldwide. In production, the very easy mechanical transmissibility combined with the high resistance in vitro is of great concern. We tested: (i) whether household cleaning products, [...] Read more.

The highly infectious Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a new viral threat to tomato production worldwide. In production, the very easy mechanical transmissibility combined with the high resistance in vitro is of great concern. We tested: (i) whether household cleaning products, commercial agricultural detergents, and an authorized plant protectant are suitable for cleaning contaminated clothing, and (ii) whether infectious viruses remain in the resulting cleaning water. The evaluation of the sanitation effect was performed using bioassays, by counting ToBRFV-associated necrotic local lesions on Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanthi NN. For this purpose, leaves were mechanically inoculated with treated fabrics and cleaning solutions which would normally be discharged to the sewer system. The detergents Fadex H⁺ (FH) and Menno Hortisept Clean Plus, as well as the disinfectant Menno Florades (MF), led to an almost complete removal of ToBRFV from contaminated fabrics, corresponding to a reduction in local lesions by 99.94–99.96%. In contrast, common household cleaning products (Spee ActivGel (SAG), Vanish Oxi Action Gel (VO) did not effectively remove the pathogen from the fabric, where the reduction was 45.1% and 89.7%, respectively. In particular, cleaning solutions after the use of household cleaners were highly contaminated with ToBRFV. After a 16-h treatment with the disinfectant MF, infectious ToBRFV was no longer present in VO, FH, and MF cleaning solutions, as demonstrated by extensive bioassays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative System for Disinfection in Greenhouses)

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21 pages, 5455 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bio-Circular Perspective of Citrus Fruit Loss Caused by Pathogens: Occurrences, Active Ingredient Recovery and Applications

by Pattarapol Khamsaw, Jiraporn Sangta, Pirawan Chaiwan, Pornchai Rachtanapun, Sasithorn Sirilun, Korawan Sringarm, Sarinthip Thanakkasaranee and Sarana Rose Sommano

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080748 - 18 Aug 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3291

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contribute to the improvement of production and consumption systems, hence, assisting in the eradication of hunger and poverty. As a result, there is growing global interest in the direction of economic development to create a zero-waste economy or [...] Read more.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) contribute to the improvement of production and consumption systems, hence, assisting in the eradication of hunger and poverty. As a result, there is growing global interest in the direction of economic development to create a zero-waste economy or circular economy. Citrus fruits are a major fruit crop, with annual global production surpassing 100 million tons, while orange and tangerine production alone account for more than half of the overall production. During pre- and postharvest stages of citrus fruit production, it is estimated that more than 20% of fruit biomass is lost, due, primarily, to biotic stresses. This review emphasizes causes of fruit losses by pathogenic caused diseases and proposes a bio-circular perspective in the production of citrus fruits. Due to substantial changes in fruit characteristics and environmental conditions, some of the most economically significant pathogens infect fruits in the field during the growing season and remain dormant or inactive until they resume growth after harvest. Peel biomass is the most significant by-product in citrus fruit production. This biomass is enriched with the value-adding essential oils and polysaccharides. For the complete bio-circular economy, these active ingredients can be utilized as citrus postharvest coating materials based upon their functional properties. The overall outreach of the approach not only reduces the amount of agricultural by-products and develops new applications for the pomology industry, it also promotes bio-circular green economic, which is in line with the SDGs for the citrus fruit industry. Full article

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

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13 pages, 2043 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Metabolite Analysis of Lettuce in Response to Sulfur Nutrition

by Jung-Sung Chung, Hyeong-Cheol Kim, Su-Min Yun, Hyun-Jin Kim, Cheol-Soo Kim and Jeung-Joo Lee

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 734; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080734 - 16 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1872

Abstract

Sulfur is an essential nutrient required for plant growth and metabolism, and plays an important role in relieving stress. Nutrient deficiency is one of the main factors that negatively affect crop growth, quality, and yield. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of [...] Read more.

Sulfur is an essential nutrient required for plant growth and metabolism, and plays an important role in relieving stress. Nutrient deficiency is one of the main factors that negatively affect crop growth, quality, and yield. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sulfur nutrients on the growth and metabolites of lettuce after treatment with two different sulfur concentrations (16 μM and 2 mM) in spray hydroponics. The fresh weight, chlorophyll, and carotenoid content of lettuce leaves were analyzed. Root morphology was examined using the WinRHIZO program. Metabolites were comparatively evaluated with the help of LC-MS and GC-MS. The fresh weight, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents of lettuce were higher in the high concentration sulfur treatment group than in the low concentration sulfur treatment group. In the characteristics analysis of the lettuce roots, treatment with a high concentration of sulfur had a more positive effect on the lettuce root development than treatment with a low concentration of sulfur. Moreover, mass-based metabolomics analysis showed that the lettuce metabolites content was significantly different according to low- and high-concentration sulfur treatments. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of sulfur nutrient content in lettuce growth and metabolites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Plants Nutrients)

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18 pages, 1103 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Plasticulture and Conservation Tillage on Nematode Assemblage and Their Relationships with Nitrous Oxide Emission following a Winter Cover Cropping and Vegetable Production System

by Koon-Hui Wang, Philip Waisen, Roshan Paudel, Guihua Chen, Susan Lynn Fricke Meyer and Cerruti R. R. Hooks

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 728; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080728 - 14 Aug 2022

Viewed by 1747

Abstract

Agriculture production emits significant amounts of nitrous oxide (N₂O), a greenhouse gas with high global warming potential. The objectives of this study were to examine whether different husbandry practices (tillage and plasticulture) following winter cover cropping would influence soil food web [...] Read more.

Agriculture production emits significant amounts of nitrous oxide (N₂O), a greenhouse gas with high global warming potential. The objectives of this study were to examine whether different husbandry practices (tillage and plasticulture) following winter cover cropping would influence soil food web structure and whether a change in the soil community could help mitigate N₂O emission in vegetable plantings. Three consecutive field trials were conducted. A winter cover crop mix of forage radish (Raphanus sativus), crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) and cereal rye (Secale cereale) were planted in all plots. Winter cover crop was terminated by flail mowing followed by (1) conventional till without surface residues [Bare Ground (BG)], (2) conventional till with black plastic mulch (BP) without surface residues, (3) strip-till (ST) with partial surface residues, or (4) no-till (NT) with surface residues. The cash crop planted subsequently were eggplant (Solanum melongena) in 2012 and 2014 and sweet corn (Zea mays) in 2013. The soil food web structure was consistently disturbed in the BP compared to other treatments as indicated by a reduction in the abundance of predatory nematodes in 2012 and 2014, and nematode maturity index in 2013 in BP. Changes in soil food web structure in the conservation tillage (NT or ST) treatments based on the weight abundance of nematode community analysis were not consistent and did not improve over the 3-year study; but were consistently improved based on functional metabolic footprint calculation at termination of cover crops of 2013 and 2014. None-the-less, the N₂O emissions increased as the abundance of fungivorous nematodes increased during all three trials. It was also found that improved soil food web structure [higher abundance of omnivorous in 2012 or predatory nematodes in 2013 and 2014, and structure index (SI) in all 3 years] reduced N₂O emissions. These findings suggested that proper soil husbandry practices following winter cover cropping could mitigate N₂O emissions over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Soil Health)

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16 pages, 3248 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In Search of Antifungals from the Plant World: The Potential of Saponins and Brassica Species against Verticillium dahliae Kleb.

by Caterina Morcia, Isabella Piazza, Roberta Ghizzoni, Stefano Delbono, Barbara Felici, Simona Baima, Federico Scossa, Elisa Biazzi, Aldo Tava, Valeria Terzi and Franca Finocchiaro

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 729; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080729 - 14 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1803

Abstract

Control methods alternative to synthetic pesticides are among the priorities for both organic and conventional farming systems. Plants are potential sources of compounds with antimicrobial properties. In this study, the antifungal potentialities of saponins derived from Medicago species and oat grains and of [...] Read more.

Control methods alternative to synthetic pesticides are among the priorities for both organic and conventional farming systems. Plants are potential sources of compounds with antimicrobial properties. In this study, the antifungal potentialities of saponins derived from Medicago species and oat grains and of brassica sprouts have been explored for the control of Verticillium dahliae, a widely distributed fungal pathogen that causes vascular wilt disease on over 200 plant species. All the tested plant extracts showed antifungal properties. Such compounds, able to reduce mycelium growth and conidia formation, deserve deeper in vivo evaluation, even in combination with a delivery system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Control Strategies of Plant Pathogens in Horticulture)

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29 pages, 2017 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Emerging Technologies for Prolonging Fresh-Cut Fruits’ Quality and Safety during Storage

by Rey David Iturralde-García, Francisco Javier Cinco-Moroyoqui, Oliviert Martínez-Cruz, Saúl Ruiz-Cruz, Francisco Javier Wong-Corral, Jesús Borboa-Flores, Yaeel Isbeth Cornejo-Ramírez, Ariadna Thalia Bernal-Mercado and Carmen Lizette Del-Toro-Sánchez

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080731 - 14 Aug 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8231

Abstract

Fresh-cut fruits have been in great demand by consumers owing to the convenience of buying them in shopping centers as ready-to-eat products, and various advantages, such as the fact that they are healthy and fresh products. However, their shelf lives are brief due [...] Read more.

Fresh-cut fruits have been in great demand by consumers owing to the convenience of buying them in shopping centers as ready-to-eat products, and various advantages, such as the fact that they are healthy and fresh products. However, their shelf lives are brief due to their physiological changes and maturation. Therefore, this review includes information from the physicochemical, microbiological, nutritional, and sensory points of view on the deterioration mechanisms of fresh-cut fruits. In addition, updated information is presented on the different emerging technologies, such as active packaging (edible films, coatings, and modified atmospheres), natural preservatives (antioxidants and antimicrobials), and physical treatments (high hydrostatic pressure, UV-C radiation, and ozone). The benefits and disadvantages of each of these technologies and the ease of their applications are discussed. Having alternatives to preserve fresh-cut fruit is essential both for the consumer and the merchant, since the consumer could then obtain a high-quality product maintaining all its properties without causing any damage, and the merchant would receive economic benefits by having more time to sell the product. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruits Quality and Sensory Analysis)

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15 pages, 2924 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of a Radical Mutation in Plastidic Starch Phosphorylase PHO1a on Potato Growth and Cold Stress Response

by Anna V. Nezhdanova, Gleb I. Efremov, Maria A. Slugina, Anastasia M. Kamionskaya, Elena Z. Kochieva and Anna V. Shchennikova

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 730; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080730 - 14 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1642

Abstract

The plant response to stresses includes changes in starch metabolism regulated by a complex catalytic network, in which plastidic starch phosphorylase PHO1a is one of the key players. In this study, we used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to edit the PHO1a gene in four [...] Read more.

The plant response to stresses includes changes in starch metabolism regulated by a complex catalytic network, in which plastidic starch phosphorylase PHO1a is one of the key players. In this study, we used the CRISPR-Cas9 system to edit the PHO1a gene in four potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars, which resulted in the introduction of a radical mutation, G261V, into the PHO1a functional domain. The mutants had altered morphology and differed from wild-type plants in starch content in the roots and leaves. Exposure to cold stress revealed the differential response of parental and transgenic plants in terms of starch content and the expression of genes coding for β-amylases, amylase inhibitors, and stress-responsive MADS-domain transcription factors. These results suggest that the G261V mutation causes changes in the functional activity of PHO1a, which in turn affect the coordinated operation of starch catabolism enzymes both under normal and cold stress conditions, possibly through differential expression of MADS-domain transcription factors. Our results highlight a critical regulatory role of PHO1a in starch metabolism, root and shoot development, and stress response in potatoes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Plants Pathology and Advances in Disease Management)

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18 pages, 7123 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Balance of Carotenoid Synthesis and Degradation Contributes to the Color Difference between Chinese Narcissus and Its Yellow-Tepal Mutant

by Yiming Zhang, Yi Zhou, Yijing Wu, Junhuo Cai, Yiqiang Zhang, Jincai Shen, Shibin Wu, Wenjie Liu, Ming Cai, Tangren Cheng and Qixiang Zhang

Horticulturae 2022, 8(8), 727; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae8080727 - 12 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1657

Abstract

Chinese narcissus (Narcissus tazetta var. chinensis) was introduced to China 1300–1400 years ago, and has grown naturally in southeastern China. It is a popular Chinese traditional potted flower and a well-known flowering bulb cultivated worldwide with only two white-tepal triploid cultivars, [...] Read more.

Chinese narcissus (Narcissus tazetta var. chinensis) was introduced to China 1300–1400 years ago, and has grown naturally in southeastern China. It is a popular Chinese traditional potted flower and a well-known flowering bulb cultivated worldwide with only two white-tepal triploid cultivars, ‘Jinzhan Yintai’ and ‘Yulinglong’. Recently, a mutant with yellow tepals was observed and promptly became popular. To clarify the key pigment for color difference and its molecular mechanism of accumulation, we conducted pigment metabolite analysis and comparative transcriptome analysis on ‘Jinzhan Yintai’ and the yellow-flowered mutant. The results showed that there was no significant difference in total flavonoid content between the mutant and ‘Jinzhan Yintai’, whereas the total carotenoid content of the mutant was more than 10-fold higher than that of ‘Jinzhan Yintai’. Based on the RNA-sequencing results, sixty-four unigenes, corresponding to 29 enzymes associated with the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway, were analyzed in detail. A comparative KEGG pathway enrichment analysis, in conjunction with quantitative real-time PCR data, revealed the opposite gene expression mode of the carotenoid biosynthesis pathway. Compared with ‘Jinzhan Yintai ’, PSY and PDS were up-regulated in the three mid-flowering stages of the mutant, whereas NCED genes were strongly down-regulated, which likely contributed to carotenoid accumulation in chromoplasts of the tepals in the mutant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)

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