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Bio-stimulants are gaining importance for elevating the stagnated yield level resulting from continuous use of chemical fertilizers (CF) in many crops, however, their use in pomegranate have not been fully explored. Two years of field experiments were conducted on a 5-years old pomegranate cv. Bhagwa orchard to investigate the effects of different combinations of commercial bio-stimulant products namely, microbial-based product A containing consortium of Rhizophagus spp. (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract-based granular formulation D (30 kg ha−1) and liquid formulation B (625 and 1250 ml ha−1) through soil application as well as wettable granular formulation, C (1 and 2 g l−1) and liquid formulation, E (1 ml l−1) through foliar sprays along with chemical fertilizers on soil fertility, trees' nutrition, fruit yield and quality of pomegranate. Results showed that integrated use of CF and bio-stimulants significantly increased the number of bisexual flowers. However, the combination of microbial-based product A (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract based liquid formulation B (625 ml ha−1) in soil and foliar spary of seaweed extract based wettable granular formulation C (1–2 g l−1) with CF resulted in production of the highest fruit yield (increased by 41.97–51.61%) with 23.08–33.38% increase in the exportable grade fruit and improved quality attributes viz. ascorbic acid, anthocyanin, non-reducing sugar, protein, and mineral content of fruits through enhancement in soil fertility and trees' micronutrient status compared to only CF. These doses combinations of bio-stimulants along with CF gave rise to the highest benefit–cost ratio of 2.10–2.34:1 and hence can be recommended for sustainable pomegranate cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to determine the yield and some quality characteristics of 20 beef tomato lines at the F6 stage. As a result, the total yield, average fruit weight, fruit length, and fruit width of the lines varied between 6.60-14.93 t/da, 200.80-384.00 g, 53.68-75.05 mm, and 71.95-98.29 mm respectively. Furthermore, it was found that the fruit flesh firmness values of the tomato lines used in the study varied between 0.41-1.32 kg/cm²; brix values between 6.10-9.60%; vitamin C values between 20.03-25.57 mg/100 g; total phenolic contents between 13.28-30.72 mg/100 g; lycopene contents between 4.69-9.68 mg/100 g and beta-carotene contents between 0.83-2.17 mg/100 g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present experiment was carried out in Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal during April to June of 2022 to find out the best cultivars of this region. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments each replicated thrice. The ten years old seven cultivars (Cricket Ball, PKM-1, PKM-2, PKM-3, CO-1, CO-2 and CO-3) are planted in a square system in a spacing of 5×5 m². The maximum fruit weight was found in CO-1 (73.86 g) and followed by CO-2 (73.53 g). The longest fruit length and dimension were observed from CO-2 (7.00 cm and 5.07 cm respectively). The maximum pulp contains in the cultivar is CO-2 (69.58 g) followed by CO-1 (68.96 g). The maximum value of TSS was found in CO-2 (25.17 °Brix) followed by Cricket Ball (21.22 °Brix) and CO-3 (20.28 oBrix). The lowest acidity was recorded in CO-2 (0.12%) followed by CO-3 (0.16%) and CO-1 (0.20%). The cultivar CO-2 registered the highest values of ascorbic acid (62.85 mg 100 g-1), total sugar (16.78%), non-reducing sugar (6.44%) and TSS: acid ratio (209.72). It can be concluded that CO-2 appeared to be the best variety based on the fruit's physical and quality attributes. As this experiment was carried out based on a limited number of varieties, more research was required on the existing germplasm of India. That might be supported in sapota's future production, processing, and marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brinjal is a widely grown vegetables. A pot experiment was conducted to study the effect of farmyard manure (FYM), Zn and B application on fruit yield, their uptake and ascorbic acid contents of brinjal where two levels of FYM (no FYM and 5 Mg ha−1), four levels of Zn (no Zn, 5 kg Zn ha−1 as basal, 10 kg Zn ha−1 as basal and 5 kg Zn ha−1 as basal + foliar spray of Zn twice @ 0.5% ZnSO4.7 H2O) and three levels of B (no B, 1 and 2 kg B ha−1) were applied in a factorial controlled randomized design. Zn @ 10 kg ha−1 through basal and soil + foliar application enhanced the fruit yield over Zn @ 5 kg ha−1 and control. Foliar spraying of Zn and basal applied Zn enhanced the Zn uptake in fruits to 2.0–2.25 fold, while 2 kg B ha−1 application enhanced the uptake by B of two-fold irrespective of FYM application. A higher B use efficiency was recorded with 1 kg B ha−1 application than 2 kg B ha−1. Basal application of Zn and B, in addition to the foliar spray of Zn, is recommended to correct Zn and B deficiency in brinjal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An imbalanced nutrients status in the nutrient solution, i.e. poor nutrition of the plant, is often responsible for the low quantity and quality of strawberry fruit. The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of different ratios of potassium to magnesium (K/Mg) (T1, 2:1, T2, 4:1, T3, 6:1 and T4, 8:1) on fruit yield and quality of strawberry cv. Albion under hydroponic conditions. Different K/Mg treatments did not have a significant effect on fruit yield and quality attributes such as ascorbic acid and total soluble solids. The highest fruit yield was obtained when plants were exposed to a 4:1 ratio (i.e. T2). Fruit quality attributes such as total anthocyanin, total antioxidant, total phenolic, total flavonoids, total chlorophyll, calcium, Mg, and K concentrations in the leaves and antioxidant enzymes activities were significantly affected by the K/Mg treatments. The highest total phenolic (925 mg/100g FW) and total flavonoids (163 mg/100g FW) were observed when plants grown in the presence of a 4:1 ratio (i.e. T2). Whereas, the highest antioxidant activity (89.2%) was detected in plants exposed to the 8:1 ratio (T4). The highest activity of guaiacol peroxidase (2.88 and 2.78 unit/g FW), ascorbate peroxidase (2.11 unit/g FW), and catalase (2.23 unit/g FW) were observed in T3 and T4, T4, and T4 treatments, respectively. It can be concluded that among the tested treatments, the 4:1 ratio of potassium:magnesium is optimal for the strawberry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To optimize the nutrient supply of strawberry, fertilization was reduced as much as possible on the premise of satisfying the elements needed for strawberry growth. This study put forward a modified nutrient solution formula (NM) by adjusting the ratios of N/K, K/Ca, NO3--N/NH4+-N in vegetative growth, flowering and fruiting, and fruit expanding stages based on Yamasaki strawberry nutrient solution formula (NY). Taking the NY as the control group, the NM was verified with elevated-grown 'Ssanta' strawberry using three different substrates (Vulcanics-added substrate, Horticultural substrate, Commercial substrate) in greenhouse. The results indicated that under the NM treatment, strawberry plants had better photosynthesis in the vegetative growth stage and flowering and fruiting stage, and the first crop yield and total crops yield per plant also increased by 20%. Although the vegetative growth stage was longer, it entered the full fruiting stage earlier so that the maturity stage was advanced one week. Compared to strawberries grown in horticultural substrate irrigated with NY, the fruit yield per plant of ‘Ssanta’ strawberry grown in horticultural substrate irrigated with NM increased by 26%, and the sugar-acid ratio and vitamin C content of primary fruits reached 10.6 and 74.1 mg/100g, improving by 41% and 34% respectively. Therefore, the NM based on the growth stage can optimize the element needs of strawberry in all growth and development stages and maintain the substrate's pH stability, improving the yield and quality of 'Ssanta' strawberry under substrate cultivation. Therefore, it is recommended to use the horticultural substrate irrigated with the modified nutrient solution for the ‘Ssanta’ strawberries cultivation elevated in greenhouse to improve the economic benefit of strawberry cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recombination of commercially available hybrids could produce desirable segregants that act as sources of new alleles for tomato breeding. Seven commercial single cross (SC) hybrids of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) were crossed in a half diallel fashion to obtain 21 double cross hybrids (DC) to estimate combining ability, mode of gene action and extent of heterobeltiosis for fruit yield, processing qualities and tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) disease severity traits. Predominance of non-additive gene action occurred in the control for all characters except for total soluble solids (TSS) content in fruit that was conditioned by both additive and non-additive gene action. Improvement of most traits in DC hybrids over SC hybrids occurred. Maximum heterotic effect in DC hybrids was for vitamin C content followed by lycopene content, fruit yield per plant, titratable acidity content, number of fruit per plant and percent disease index of ToLCV. Two good combiners, 'PAN-1286' and 'Devi' among SC hybrids were identified based on general combining ability effects and average performance. Commercial exploitation of DC hybrids, 'TO-1458 × L-37' and 'NS-501 × TO-1458' following multilocational testing in the tropics and subtropics might be useful. High yielding, ToLCV disease tolerant DC hybrids could be exploited in segregating generations to identify elite multi-parent advanced generation inter-cross (MAGIC) populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The guava fruit plants produce heavy fruit yield during summer season but these plants then produce very little fruit yield during winter season due to low carbohydrates. To increase guava fruit production during winter season, this experiment 'effect of nitrogen doses (0, 75, 150 and 225 kg ha-1) and timing (September, October and November) on fruit quality of guava in winter' was conducted at farmer field of village, Gher Khan, District, Haripur during 2017-2018 with the objectives to optimize the appropriate dose of nitrogen and timing of application for growth and fruit quality of guava crop in winter. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with split plot arrangement and three replications. The experimental results revealed that highest ascorbic acid (207.59 mg 100g-1) was recorded in guava fruit tree treated with nitrogen in September. Trees treated with nitrogen in November produced fruits with maximum fruit firmness (1.90 kg cm-2) and titratable acidity (0.35%). Regarding nitrogen doses, maximum TSS-acid ratio (39.72%) and ascorbic acid (212.42 mg 100g-1) were observed in trees treated with 225 kg N ha-1. Maximum ascorbic acid (217.76 mg 100g-1) and reducing sugar (5.85%) were recorded in trees fertilized with 150 kg N ha-1 while maximum non-reducing sugar (4.80%) and TSS (10.55 oBrix) were observed in trees treated with 75 kg N ha-1. Interaction between nitrogen doses and its time of application significantly affected fruit firmness of guava fruit while TSS, ascorbic acid, TSS-acid ratio, reducing and non-reducing sugar was found non-significant. It is therefore concluded from results that optimum dose of urea as a source of nitrogen should be applied during the month of September at the rate of 150 kg ha-1 to guava fruit trees for better quality fruit production of winter season guava under the climatic condition of Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunhwa, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is low due to incorrect or use of no magnesium (Mg). An experiment was conducted from October to March 2018–2019 and 2019–2020 to determine the effective dose of Mg to improve yield and quality, and assess nutrient uptake and use efficiency of tomato. Treatments were magnesium at 0 (control), 4, 8, 12, or 16 kg·ha−1. Application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg produced the most fruit per plant (41.1), heaviest fruit (74.3 g), and greatest fruit yield (69.7 t∙ha−1). Vitamin C content in fruit was best (39.6 mg/100 g) with application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. The same treatment had the highest β-carotene (26.1 µg·g−1), improved fruit firmness (1.06 kilogram-force), and had better protein content (18.8%) in mature tomato fruit. Uptake of nutrients was best with 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. Recovery use efficiency of Mg was highest with 8 kg·ha−1 Mg. The best gross margin (48.6%) and benefit-cost ratio (3.11) was with 12 kg·ha−1 Mg. Application of 12 kg·ha−1 Mg appears to improve the quantity, quality, and economics of tomatoes. Regression analysis indicated application of Mg @ 11.3 kg·ha−1 could be optimum to improve the yield of tomatoes under controlled field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. Kinnow is the trademark of citriculture industry of Pakistan and the most important cultivar which is appreciated due to delicious taste and quality. Kinnow is heavy bearer with variable fruit size which fetch low price in market. Fruit thinning is practiced in tree fruits to obtain grade A fruits and overcome alternate bearing. Therefore, this research was planned during 2017-19 to investigate the effect of fruit thinning on quality and profitability of Kinnow mandarin. Fruit thinning was done manually after June drop using the quadratic frame. Four treatments were applied i.e., control (no thinning), retention of 7, 9, and 11 fruits per frame and each treatment had four replications. The results showed that retention of 9 fruit per frame yielded the best fruit size, quality and profitability. The yield and number of fruits per tree decreased due to the fruit thinning but enhanced the fruit quality like juice percentage (68.6%), TSS (10.9 °Brix), TSS:TA ratio (11.3), ascorbic acid (68.8 mg 100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (94.9% inhibition) and phenolic contents (169.8 mg GAE 100 g-1). The yield calculations showed that grade A (38.6%) and B (36.6%) fruits were the highest in treatment having 9 fruit per frame. Benefit cost ratio depicted that 9 fruit per frame although caused 44.56% fruit thinning yet resulted 25% increase in the total income as compared to the other treatments. Hence, fruit thinning practices in citrus have significant effects on fruit physical and biochemical characters and overall orchard profitability based on fruit grading criterion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass proliferation and accumulation of the green macroalga Ulva reticulata are problems in coastal areas and affect other ecosystems, such as those involving seagrasses. In the absence of any intervention, the decomposition of these macroalgae over time can disrupt the balance of recipient ecosystems. Attention has been given to the potential use of U. reticulata as a supplier of nutrients for crop species such as tomatoes as a possible solution to the buildup of this unusable seaweed species, which is usually left to decompose in affected seagrass ecosystems; this is the case in the Merambong seagrass meadow in the Sungai Pulai estuary in Gelang Patah, southwestern Johor, Malaysia. We analyzed the macro- and micronutrient contents in U. reticulata to determine nutrient availability. We also performed greenhouse studies to test the effects of crude extracts from dried U. reticulata-Extract "A" and fresh U. reticulata-Extract "B" on plant growth, total yield, and quality vine-ripened fruits. Compared to other seaweed extracts used as plant growth promoters, U. reticulata extracts have higher nitrogen (N), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) contents. The application of 30% Extracts "A" and "B" and 50% Extracts "A" and "B" significantly affected tomato plant height. However, extract concentrations that promoted plant height and hastened flowering and fruiting did not increase total fruit yields. Both treatments that positively affected tomato plant height and hastened flowering and fruiting resulted in increased contents of total soluble solids (TSS), beta-carotene, lycopene, ascorbic acid and total titratable acidity (TTA) in the vine-ripened fruits. Agronomically, the application of 5% Extracts "A" and "B", 10%-20% Extracts "A" and "B", and 50% Extract "A" doubled the total yield compared to those of the control, and 40% Extract "A" resulted in the highest total fruit yield. In general, tomato plants responded well to Extract "A" than Extract "B" and presented good total fruit yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bombai' is a popular litchi variety of West Bengal but susceptible to fruit cracking which reduces the market price. Till now numbers of research trial conducted in litchi with different chemicals but reports on impact of application of brassinolide in reduction of fruit cracking maintaining quality attributes are limited. Therefore, an experiment was conducted during January-May of 2019-20 at the Experimental Farm of Horticultural Research station, Mondouri, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidayala, Nadia, West Bengal, India to evaluate the effect of different dose of brassinolide on fruit yield, quality and reduction of cracking in litchi. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design comprising five treatments of brassinolide [T1: Brassinolide (0.5 mg l-1), T2: Brassinolide (1.0 mg l-1), T3: Brassinolide (1.5 mg l-1), T4: Brassinolide (2.0 mg l-1) and T5: Control (water spray)] with four replication/treatment. The solutions were applied two times; first before anthesis and another at 15 days after anthesis. Result revealed that brassinolide increased the number of fruits per panicle and significantly increased individual fruit weight, length, diameter, and yield. Among different treatments, brassinolides at 1 mg l-1 (two-time application i.e., 15 days before and after anthesis) is identified to be superior considering all qualitative aspects i.e., maximum fruit weight (26.40 g), fruit length (5.15 cm) and yield (95.88 kg plant-1). This treatment also exhibited maximum TSS (21.22°Brix), total sugar (14.11%), ascorbic acid (37.42 mg 100 g-1) and anthocyanin (23.13 mg 100 g-1) content with minimum (9.12%) fruit cracking. The control treatments registered minimum values for all parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out at Vegetable Research Station, ARI, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana State, India during kharif (June-October, 2014), rabi (October-February, 2014-15) and Summer (February-May, 2015) to assess the performance of genotypes in terms of yield as well as quality across seasons under wide range of environments through phenotypic stability studies. Thirty brinjal genotypes were evaluated for yield and quality parameters under three environments comprising of three different seasons. The portioning of environments + (genotypes × environments) mean squares showed that environments (linear) differed significantly and were quite diverse with regards to their effect on the performance of the genotypes for fruit yield and quality traits. A perusal of stability parameters indicated two genotypes C3 and P6 showed stable performance for earliness, C3 for days to first fruit harvest and C3, C10, C16, C21, P1 for days to last fruit harvest hence these genotypes were adapted to all types of environments. Among the stable hybrids, five hybrids C3, C11, C13, C16 and C21 were significantly more yield plant-1 and more number of marketable fruits plant -1 over the best check Chhaya. Whereas, for ascorbic acid content 5 hybrids i.e C2, C4, C11, C14 and C18 to be stable over the check Utkarsha. C3 was showed stable performance over best check Chhaya for the trait fruit and shoot borer infestation on shoots and four hybrids C3, C11, C13 and C21 were found to be stable for the trait fruit and shoot borer infetstation on fruits over the best check Chhaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of soilless substrate-based versus soil cultivation on overall fruit quality and yield in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) were studied using the tomato cv. Zhonghua Lvbao. Experiments for tomato soilless cultivation were carried out under greenhouse conditions. Plant growth, fruit quality and yield, and physiologic traits were observed. RNA-seq and RT-PCR, as well as metabolomic analyses were performed to examine the expressed genes and metabolites under soilless substrate cultivation. The results showed that the plant height, stem diameter, and chlorophyll contents of tomato under substrate-based cultivation were increased by 37.3%, 19.8%, and 15.3%, respectively, compared with soil cultivation system. Leaf photosynthetic and transpiration rates, stomatal conductance, and root vitality of tomato, under substrate-based cultivation, increased by 29.0%, 21.2%, 43.9%, and 84.5%, respectively, compared with soil cultivation. The yield reached 7177.5 kg/667 m2, and the relative yield increased by 10.1%, compared with soil cultivation. The contents of total soluble sugar, soluble solids, and vitamin C increased by 35.7%, 19.7%, and 18.2%, respectively, higher than those of soil cultivation in tomato fruits, while nitrate content and titratable acid decreased by 29.4% and 11.8%, respectively. Therefore, substrate-based-cultivation can increase production and improve tomato fruit quality and taste. We examined the expressed genes and metabolites to explore the molecular mechanism of plant growth and overall fruit quality improvement in substrate-based cultivation. A total of 476 differentially expressed genes were identified by transcriptomes profiling, of which 321 and 155 were significantly up- and down-regulated, respectively. The results of metabolomics analysis showed that 441 metabolites were detected, where 24 and 36 metabolites were up- and down-regulated, respectively. By combining analyses of transcriptomic and metabolic groups, genes and metabolites related to the fruit quality were mainly concentrated in the vitamin B6/ascorbic acid/aldonic acidmetabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolic pathways. Therefore, substrate-based cultivation can elevate vitamin and soluble sugar contents and the expression of fruit flavor related genes, which lays an initial background for exploring the mechanism of substrate-based cultivation, in order to improve the quality of tomato in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current experiment was done during the 2018 and 2019 seasons on 'Ewais' mango trees (Mangifera indica) grown in Research Station, El-Nubaria district, Egypt, to study the impact of spraying ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) and irrigation time on vegetative growth, yield and fruit quality. All experimental plants have been received the same care, i.e. control of pests & weeds, fertilization, and irrigation until the 1st week of October. The irrigation was adapted to apply 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week to control leaves damage due to low temperature after this period and the treatments included: (T1) Water spraying at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at the same time after four weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week (Control). (T2) Spraying with NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at the same time after four weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan /week. (T3) Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at 1st week of December after eight weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week. (T4) Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November + start normal irrigation program at 1st week of January after twelve weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week. All treatments received the same quantity of irrigation water, approximately 4000 m3/feddan/year. Results: All treatments (T2, T3 & T4) had a significant influence on vegetative growth, fruiting behavior (fruit set % & the yield), and the fruit quality compared with the control (T1). The significant was not only the fruit physical characteristics (weight, dimensions, volume, and specific gravity) but also the fruit chemical characteristics (total soluble solids % (T.S.S.), acidity %, T.S.S / acid ratio and vitamin C (L- ascorbic acid)). Conclusion: Spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November plus start normal irrigation program at 1st week of November or December or January after 4 or 8 or 12 weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan (4200 m2)/week (T2, T3, and T4) increased the vegetative growth, i.e. length of terminal shoots, No. leaves / terminal shoots & leaf area as well as the fruiting behavior such as fruit set percentage, No. fruits per tree & the tree production (kg/tree) and improved the fruit characteristics not only the fruit physical parameters but also the chemical properties in comparing with the untreated trees. During the two seasons, spraying NH4NO3 2% at 1st week of November plus start normal irrigation program at 1st week of January after 12 weeks of adapted irrigation as 5m3/feddan/week (T4) is recommended since; it is the only treatment with the superiority effect on studied parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted during two successive seasons of 2018 and 2019 on Balady Mandarin trees, 20 years old budded on sour orange rootstock and planted at 5×5m apart. Grown at the productive farm located at Shandawel Island, Sohag governorate. This experiment aimed to study the effect of active dry yeast, ascorbic acid, vitamin B complex and their combination on yield components, alternate bearing and fruit quality of Balady Mandarin cultivar grown under Sohage conditions. The obtained results showed that using of active dry yeast at 10g/l (as soil application) as single application or in combination with ascorbic acid and vitamin B complex at 1g/l from each (foliar application) caused a pronounced increasing of fruit numbers, fruit weight (g) and yield (kg). The later also improved fruit quality in terms of TSS%, TSS/acid ratio as well as total sugars, vitamin C content and reducing total acidity of Balady Mandarin fruits. According to results of the current study it could be concluded that using active dry yeast at 10g/l (as soil application) as single treatment or in combination with spraying ascorbic acid (1g/l) plus vitamin B complex (1g/l) three times on the first week of May, July and September led to improve both yield and fruit quality of Balady Mandarin Cultivar under Sohage environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wide range of components, including amino acids, small peptides, and osmoactive substances (proline, glycine betaine), makes protein hydrolysate a promising biostimulant type, encouraging plant productivity both under smooth or adverse environmental conditions. Plantbased biostimulants can boost growth, yield, quality, and bioactive compounds in a variety of crops. The present study examined the effects of an enzymatic protein hydrolysate formulation (Activeg) applied different times (3, 6, or 9), compared to an untreated control, on production and quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) 'miniplum' fruits grown in a greenhouse during the autumn-winter season. This study was carried out at the University of Federico II, Department of Agriculture (40°49' N, 14°20' E). A randomized complete block design was used to distribute the experimental treatments in the field; the obtained data were analyzed using ANOVA. The biostimulant applied 3 or 6 times led to the highest yields, whereas 6 or 9 sprayings enhanced fruit firmness, dry residue, soluble solids and antioxidants. The biostimulant treatment repeated 6 times resulted in the best overall tomato performances in terms of fruit yield, quality and antioxidant content, in the autumn-winter season, which suggests the chance to reduce the chemical fertilizer input, thus contributing to the vegetable crop system sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollination is a critical process in date palms production series that affect yield and fruit quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different pollination methods (spray pollen grain with zinc, boric or ascorbic acid solution) on yield and fruit quality of Barhy date palm. This study was conducted at Kom Ombo, Aswan Governorate, Egypt during 2019 and 2020 seasons. Results showed that most beneficial treatment in this concern is spraying female spathes with 0.5 to 1 g pollen grains plus 1 g zinc or ascorbic acid/L water which gave economical yield with good fruit quality. Moreover, it distinguished to save time, effort, labor, cost and more practical to it is a promising technique in the future [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pineapple (Ananas comosus L.), originally from South America, is the third most produced fruit in Brazil. The potassium nutrient plays a fundamental role on the fruit quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of potassium doses applied to the soil on fruit yield and on the physical and chemical characteristics of the Pérola pineapple cultivar. The design used randomized block design with four repetitions; the treatments consisted of five doses of K2O: 0; 222; 444; 666 and 888 kg ha−1 applied in the form of potassium chloride, divided into two applications, after floral induction. The evaluated variables were: fruit yield per hectare and pulp, fruit and crown fresh mass, fruit diameter, fruit and crown lengths, titratable acidity, soluble solids, vitamin C, juice pH and soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio. Potassic fertilization increased the yield of both fruit and pulp per hectare, the fruit and crown fresh mass, the diameter of the fruit, the lengths of the fruit and crown, titratable acidity, soluble solids, vitamin C and decreased the ratio of soluble solids to titratable acidity in the juice. The rise in potassium nutrition improves the quality and yield aspects of the pineapple 'Pérola' fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to compare the effect of three nutrient solution replacement methods in an NFT system and pruning on hot pepper, a factorial experiment was conducted. Factors included nutrient solution replacement method (complete nutrient replacement, partial nutrient replacement according to EC, and partial nutrient replacement according to plant requirements) and pruning (pruning and non-pruning). Results showed that the highest vegetative growth was recorded in plants fed by complete replacement of nutrient solution, while plant fed based on EC showed the lowest vegetative growth and nutrients concentration. Leaf Chlorophyll a (Chl a) and Total Chlorophyll (TChl) decreased in plants fed according to EC control and plant requirements compared to complete replacement of nutrient solution. All these traits were higher in non-pruned plants than in pruned plants. Fruit yield decreased in plants fed based on nutrient solution EC and plant requirements, and pruning treatment decreased these traits, but the highest single fruit weight belonged to pruned plants fed based on plant requirements. The highest fruit carotenoid content, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), and vitamin C were recorded in plants fed according to nutrient solution EC, and these traits were higher in the pruned plants compared to non-pruned ones. The results also showed that pruning caused a reduction in plant growth and fruit number, therefore, it is not recommended for hot pepper cv. Sentela. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was carried out at Private Farm (The Experimental Farm of Sand Valley Company) at Ismailia Governorate, Egypt during the two summer seasons of 2016 and 2017 to study the response of vegetative growth, leaf pigments, yield and fruit quality of some summer squash cultivars (Haitek, Kortoba, Otto, Rivera and Shamis) grown in sandy soil to foliar spray with some antioxidants [Salicylic acid (SA), Vitamin B1 and Vitamin C] at 100 ppm of each. The interaction between Revira cultivar and spraying with SA or with Vitamin C at 100 ppm of each increased number of leaves/ plant, leaves dry matter and leaf relative water content (%), crude protein and Vitamin C content in fruits, whereas the interaction between Revira or Shamis cultivars and spraying with SA at 100 ppm increased plant height, concentration of chlorophyll a in leaf tissues, total yield/ fad., total carbohydrates and TSS in fruits. The interaction between Shamis cultivar and spraying with Vitamin B1 or Vitamin C at 100 ppm of each increased concentration of chlorophyll b in leaf tissues, but decreased the concentration of carotenoides in leaf tissues. On the other hand, spraying Otto cultivar with tap water gave the lowest value for each of chlorophyll a, b but recorded the highest concentration of carotenoides in leaf tissues, followed by Haitek and Kortoba, while spraying Kortoba cultivar with tap water gave the lowest value of total yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to select the best period for selenium（Se）application for winter jujube（Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. Dongzao）, a field ex⁃ periment was conducted to study the effects of different Se application（via foliar spraying）periods on total Se content, organic Se ratio, and fruit quality. The NaSeO3 solution（27 mg Se per plant）was applied only once at different growth stages including leaf expansion period （LEP）, fruitlet period（FLP）, fruit swelling period（FSP）, and fruit ripening period（FRP）. The results indicated that total Se content in leaf and fruit increased rapidly when the Se foliar spray was applied at FSP or FRP, and the maximum values were observed when Se was applied at FSP. The Se content in fruit was enhanced from 25 μg·kg-1 to 76 μg·kg-1. Various effects on the fruit quality of winter jujube were found depending on different Se application periods. Foliar Se spray application at FSP showed the best effects for improvement of fruit quality yielding the maximum values of soluble solid, soluble sugar, vitamin C, total flavone content and sugar-acid ratio, which were significantly higher by 13.30%, 17.17%, 16.33%, 29.17%, and 28.89%, respectively, in comparison to that in the control. These results suggested that foliar NaSeO3 spray, at a Se concentration of 45 mg Se·L-1, applied at FSP was a good method for the production of Se-enriched winter jujube fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of guava (Psidium guajava L.) are highly appreciated not only for aroma and flavor, but also for nutritional value, being a rich source of vitamin C and can be consumed in natura or in their industrial forms. The objective of this work was to evaluate the performance of guava cultivars, its initial production and its fruit quality in irrigated and non-irrigated environments. Planting was carried out in February 2016, at 2.0 x 4.5 m spacing, with seedlings formed by cuttings from a commercial nursery. The plants were conducted in the espalier system, with regular prunings for fruiting. It was used a complete randomized block design in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement, with three cultivars (Tailandesa, Século XXI and Pedro Sato) and two production environments (irrigated and non-irrigated). Productive variables (yield per plant and fruit mass) and qualitative variables (pH and total soluble solids content) were analyzed in the first two crop cycles. The yield and mass of fruits of evaluated cultivars were not affected by the additional irrigation of the plants. The irrigation has decreased the pH and the level of soluble solids content of the fruits. The 'Tailandesa' guava cultivar was the one that presented the best productive performance for cultivation in the region of Vera Cruz, SP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity as a global challenge is a very complex issue in agricultural food production. In this study, the growth characteristics of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum var. crusader) were evaluated under higher Electrical Conductivity (EC) (5 dS/m) induced by NaCl, KCl, K2SO4 or "All Nutrients" of Hoagland nutrient solution. The standard Hoagland solution (with EC 1.8 dS/m) was used as the control. The results showed that EC5 induced by NaCl resulted in the most negative effects on growth, yield and fruit quality parameters. Application of KCl (to induce EC5) also resulted in some reduction in growth parameters. However, application of K2SO4 and particularly "All Nutrients" (to induce EC5) resulted in better growth characteristics compared to plants treated with NaCl or KCl salts. There was a significant reduction in growth and fruit quality traits including plant height, leaf SPAD value, fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots, fruit fresh yield, fruit total soluble solids (TSS) and vitamin C content by NaCl and to lesser extent by KCl. However, there was no significant reduction in these traits by "All Nutrients" and for some traits by K2SO4 application compared to control plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breeding of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L) with a focus on yield has indirectly led to reductions in flavor. Development of tomato genotypes with high quality and yield needs efficient tools to monitor trait association in breeding. The objective of the work was to combine simultaneous selection for yield and quality in elite segregating populations of tomato breeding using multivariate methods. Eighty-three tomato lines (S3) were produced, using the modified pedigree method, from crossings of commercial hybrids. Factor analysis determined five hidden factors, which justified 68.62% of variation. The first factor, with the highest percent of justified variance, was effective for fruit yield. The second factor with the most coefficients was effective for fruit quality. The third factor, with extensive, positive, coefficients for fruit length, fruit diameter, and pericarp thickness, was effective for fruit characterization. The fourth factor, with the most factorial load over number of fruit per cluster and high negative weight, was effective for durability of flowers. The fifth factor was affected by number of flowers per cluster, and vitamin C and total soluble solids content. In triplot analysis partially inbred lines 75, 76, 77, and 78 had high values of the first factor and was effective for high performance. The most important traits, based on stepwise regression, were number of fruit per line, single fruit weight, fruit diameter and pericarp thickness. Path analysis indicated number of fruit per line and single fruit weight had the highest positive direct effect on yield and direct selection for these traits is possible. Based on their high positive loading for factors 1 and 3, that had relation to fruit yield and moderate loading for factor 2, where maturity index was negative, partially inbred lines 75 and 78 can be used for subsequent tomato breeding. In tomato, important traits for yield include single fruit weight, fruit length and diameter, and pericarp thickness and titratable acidity must be considered simultaneously to maintain flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was carried out during the two successive winter seasons of 2017/18 and 2018/19. The aims of the experiment were to investigate the effect of using three different mulch treatments (black polyethylene, clear polyethylene, and bare soil) on strawberry ‘Florida’ and ‘Winterstar’ cultivars (Fragaria X ananassa Duch) regarding the fruit yield, yield attributes, and some fruit quality characteristics (vitamin C, anthocyanin, acidity, TSS, and TSS: acidity), along with the financial aspects of using polyethylene mulching for strawberry productivity. Compared to the un-mulched plants, the total fruit yield of ‘Florida’ and ‘Winterstar’ plants was increased by ~40-49% and 17-18%, respectively in the black plastic mulching in the two years. Clear plastic mulching was accompanied by an increased total yield of ‘Florida’ by 19-34%, while decreased ‘Winterstar’ fruit yield by 14-24%. Regarding vitamin C content, the main effects of mulching treatment showed that plants grown in black plastic mulching had significantly higher vitamin C content than clear plastic (both seasons) or no mulching (second season). ‘Florida’ plants in the black plastic mulching achieved significantly the highest vitamin C levels compared to the other treatments. Similarly, ‘Florida’ plants in the black plastic mulching had higher TSS content than the other mulching treatments. Depending on the cultivar used and the growing season, plastic mulching (whether clear or black) was beneficial in improving the fruits anthocyanin content compared to the un-mulched plants. In conclusion, plastic mulching (especially the black) was helpful in improving fruits contents of vitamin C and anthocyanin compared to the un-mulched plants. Regarding the financial aspect, using black plastic mulching for strawberry production in Assiut governorate was more profitable than the un-mulched farm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The purpose of this paper is to improve the yield and quality of Chinese bayberry and promote the development of green-efficient bayberry industry. [Method] Taking Biqi bayberry as test materials, the application of humic acid soluble fertilizer(HASF)was studied for higher yield and better quality fruit, while two field experiments were conducted in Fumin County and Panlong District, Yunnan Province. [Result] The results showed that the yield and fruit quality were improved by spraying HASF with 800-1000 times concentration at pre-flowering, young fruit and fruit enlarged stage, based on conventional fertilization. The average single fruit weight, yield and net income of bayberry of spraying HASF were significantly higher than those of spraying water(CK), with up to 27. 86 %-31. 54 %, 13. 0 %-13. 4 % and 13. 8 %-14. 2 %, respectively, and the contents of soluble solids and vitamin C(Vc) increased by 18. 4 %-19. 54 %and 18. 56 %-24. 9 %, respectively. However, compared with conventional fertilization, spraying water had no significant effect on fruit yield and quality. [Conclusion] The yield, quality and economic benefit of bayberry could be improved significantly by applying HASF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the hedgerow system is the main raspberry growing system, which has no clearly-defined standards regarding plant density and fruit-bearing potential per meter of hedgerow. This study evaluates the effect of precision cane meristem management in growing major floricane red raspberry cultivars in Bosnia and Herzegovina. During 2015 and 2016, in Willamette, Meeker, and Tulameen, grown under the hedgerow system, mixed buds were selected on fruiting laterals with the fruitbearing potential of 80, 100, and 120 well-developed and well-positioned mixed buds per meter of hedgerow. High stable yields were recorded under the medium load of 100 buds per meter of hedgerow. Yield ranged from 22.6 t/ha to 24.9 t/ha in Meeker and from 17.7 t/ha to 24.5 t/ha in Tulameen. The yield variation over the experimental years was somewhat higher in Willamette (10.4-21.8 t/ha). Fruit size was largest under the 100-bud load per meter of hedgerow. The biochemical characteristics of the fruit, expressed through vitamin C, phenol, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents, and the antioxidant capacity, indicated differences among cultivars and the effect of the experimental year. The load of 100 mixed buds well-positioned on canes per meter of hedgerow was the optimum load of fruit-bearing potential. The reduction in bud numbers per meter of hedgerow led to a significant decrease in fruit yield, with no changes in fruit quality. Conversely, the increase in the number of buds per meter of hedgerow resulted in a decline in fruit quality, while not adversely affecting fruit yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted during two successive seasons (2016/2017 first ratoon and 2017/2018 second ratoon) of Williams banana plants. The plants grown in a private banana orchard, where clay loam soil under flood irrigation system, at 3.5x3.5m apart located at Nakada district, Quena Governorate, Egypt. Forty eight stools each containing three plants were chosen to evaluate the effect of yeast applied as soil drench and spraying ascorbic acid (V.C) on growth, yield and fruit quality. These treatments were arranged in a randomized complete block design in split plot arrangement with three replicates. The obtained results could be summarized as follows. Ascorbic acid spraying significantly increased the length and circumference of pseudostem, leaf area and total leaf area/plant as well as percentage of N, P and K of leaves compared to unsprayed ones. Also, these treatments significantly increased the yield components and improved the fruit quality compared to unsprayed ones. Yeast application was very effective in enhancing all growth aspects, yield and fruit characteristics compared to untreated ones. All combinations of ascorbic acid spraying on the yeast treated plants resulted in a significant increament in all growth aspects, yield components and fruit quality as compared to check treatments. The best results regarding the growth and fruiting were obtained with ascorbic acid spraying (at 200 ppm) accompanied with yeast application (at 40 g/plant) compared to other tested treatments. It is evident from the foregoing results that the application yeast at 40 g/plant and ascorbic acid at 200 ppm application four times during growth season (April, June, August & October), singly or in combination improved the growth and yield of Williams banana plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Eight cultivars belong to Prunus domestica L., P. insititia L. and Prunus × rossica Erem. were evaluated under Serbian conditions. • Twenty-four main agronomical and pomological traits were investigated. • Cultivar had the greatest influence on the tested traits, followed by year and interaction cultivar × years, respectively. • The best productivity had 'Metlaš', whereas superior fruit physico-chemical traits and antioxidant activity had 'Timočanka', 'Crvena Ranka' and 'Durancie'. • Multivariate analysis can be a very useful tool for segregating plum cultivars with the best yielding, fruit physico-chemical properties and antioxidant activity. From 2017 to 2022, tree growth, yield components, fruit quality attributes and antioxidant capacity of autochthonous and rare plum cultivars of different genetic origin were investigated. The research was carried out in the environmental conditions of Serbia in orchard where intensive horticultural measures were applied. The results showed a wide variability of the examined parameters among cultivars and among plum types. The 'Olenka' plum had the most vigor trees, whereas 'Saint Julien' had dwarf trees. The Serbian autochthonous plums 'Metlaš' and 'Crvena Ranka' had the best yield components (Y, CY, YE). 'Timočanka' had the highest FW and fruit size, whereas 'Metlaš' and 'Saint Julien' had the weakest fruit physical characteristics. Unexpectedly, 'Saint Julien' had the highest content of soluble solids, both ripening and sweetness indexes and RS. The highest and similar content of TS was found in the fruits of 'Crvena Ranka', 'Timočanka' and 'Obilnaya'. 'Crvena Ranka' and 'Obilnaya' had the highest content of N-RS. The Czech autochthonous cultivars 'Durancie' and 'Chrudimská' had a similar and highest content of vitamin C, while the highest TPC and TFC were found in the fruits of 'Metlaš' and 'Olenka', respectively. The highest amount of anthocyanins had 'Obilnaya', whereas the lowest had 'Saint Julien'. Fruits of 'Durancie' had the highest TAC, followed by 'Timočanka' and 'Obilnaya', whereas fruits of 'Olenka' had the poorest antioxidant power. Considering their overall performances, evaluated plums can be grown in production orchards for different purposes or can be an alternative to the leading commercial cultivars in similar ecological conditions. Also, they can be used for breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common guava is a small tree from Myrtacaeae family which is cultivated for its fruits. Researches have explored new methods to promote fruit yields and quality of crops. Application of Forchlorofenuron or CPPU (with Molecular Formula: C12h10 CIN 3O) improves the fruit size as well as its quality, but there has not been an investigation evaluating its effects on common guava fruit under ield conditions. This research was performed to study the effects of different doses of CPPU (0, 10, 20 and 40 mg L-1) on common guava fruit size and quality characteristics under ield conditions. Analysis of variance and LSD (least signiicant differences) mean compression indicated that total soluble solids, total acidity, ascorbic acid or vitamin C, fruit irmness, phenolics, 1,1-Diphenyl- 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPh), polygalacturonase, pectin methyl esterase and ethylene were signiicantly different in most traits and CPPU-40 produced high means. The principal components (PC) analysis explained 95% of the total variation and the irst two principal components (PC1 and PC2) explained 78% and 17% of the total variation, respectively. According to biplot, CPPU-40 had the highest values for all of the measured traits except DPPh, ethylene and polygalacturonase. The most prominent relations by biplot were a strong positive correlation among phenolics, fruit irmness, total acidity, total soluble solids and ascorbic acid as indicated by the small obtuse angles between their vectors. The measured traits were grouped into two clusters and cutoff point veriied via Wilks' lambda statistics. Cluster I consisted of three traits (ascorbic acid or vitamin C, fruit irmness and ethylene) while cluster II included total soluble solids. Findings of this study suggest that CPPU can be used as an effective growth regulator to improve the size and quality of common guava fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the grape variety "Summer Black" as the test material, the effects of different shoot-fruit ratios on grape yield, fruit quality and grapevine storage nutrient were investigated for 2 consecutive yeas, so as to determine the optimized load for Summer Black grapes in Shandong. The results showed that the grapes with shoot-fruit ratio of 1: 1 had the highest soluble solid content, vitamin C content and grapevine storage nutrient. Based on the comprehensive analysis, the shootfruit ratio of 1: 1 was the optimized load for Summer Black grapes in Tai'an of Shandong Province, and the yield was 1 179. 37 - 1 288.63 kg per 667 m2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A great emphasis of plant research is being placed on developing crops with increased nutritional value. Generating plant materials suitable for controlled studies as potential tools for pre-breeding is still the main hurdle. Improvements are needed in generating different allele combinations to stack various nutrients into a single genotype, without losses in fruit yield or quality, and in testing the specific effects of nutrients in their original matrix, avoiding the noise caused by the characteristic mix of compounds. An elegant approach in both pre-breeding and diet supplementation tests is the use of near-isogenic lines (NILs). Here, we tap on the large pool of monogenic mutants and natural genetic variation available in tomato to create a series of NILs in the genetic background of the cultivar Micro-Tom (MT). We describe the introgression of the mutations Anthocyanin fruit (Aft), atroviolacium (atv), Aubergine (Abg), Beta-carotene (B), old-gold crimson (og) and high pigment 1 and 2 (hp1, hp2) and characterize their fruit metabolic profiles in single, double and triple mutant combinations. We show that Brix can be raised without yield penalty, along with increases in lycopene, β-carotene and ascorbic acid, and a concomitant enhancement of anti-oxidant capacity. As proof-of-concept of the suitability of stacking alleles for breeding nutrient-rich tomatoes, we introduce three mutations leading to uniformly purple fruits and enhanced nutrient contents from MT into a commercial cherry tomato cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Selection of seven thermotolerant Italian tomatoes genotypes. • 'Lampião' and 'Fascínio' showed the highest plant production and number of fruit. • 'Candieiro' contains the highest lycopene and ascorbic acid contents. • 'Vedete' fruit is the best source of β-carotene. • The tasters preferred 'Fascinio' due to its aroma and flavor. High temperature is a limiting factor for the production and quality of tomato fruit, especially during the summer in tropical regions, when the cultivation must be carried out in a protected environment due to heavy rainfall. Thus, there is a need to identify cultivars adapted to these climatic conditions. In this study we aimed to carry out the selection of thermotolerant cultivars, adapted to protected cultivation, to combine characteristics of high yield, fruit quality, and consumer acceptance through principal component analysis (PCA). 'Fascínio', 'Lampião', 'Vedette', 'Tytanium', 'Candieiro', 'Mariana', and 'Shanty', grown under high temperatures (36 °C), differed in yield, physicochemical parameters of fruit (soluble solids, titratable acidity and ripening index), bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, lycopene, and β-carotene), and sensory analysis. According to the PCA, 'Fascínio' stood out due to its high yield characteristics (68.32 t ha−1), with a higher prevalence of large (38.6%) and medium (54.9%) fruit, sweeter fruit (4.33 °brix), and were preferred by the consumer, in addition to having thermotolerance and adaptation for the greenhouse. 'Candieiro' presented with the highest content of bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid: 45.31 mg/100 g and lycopene: 2.73 mg/100 g), attributes that add value to the fruit and may fulfill the needs of more demanding consumers. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodine is a non-essential element for land plants, but is considered as a beneficial element, related to antioxidant capacity, environmental adaptations and improvement of plant growth. Salinity is one of the more recurrent abiotic stresses worldwide, seriously affecting vegetal production. The aim of this work was to evaluate iodine application (Q products® and KIO3, Quimcasa de México, Naucalpan, Mexico) in strawberry plants under normal and salt stress conditions. Growth, antioxidant content, essential minerals, iodine accumulation and fruit quality were evaluated. The results showed that, under stress conditions, the application of Q products increased ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) activity as well as glutathione (GSH) content and yield in fruit, without avoiding biomass loss; with the application of KIO3 an increase in GSH and APX activity as well as P and K concentrations were obtained. In leaves an increase in P, Ca, Mn and iodine accumulation was evidenced with the application of Q products, and an increased concentration of ascorbic acid and iodine with KIO3 treatments. Under normal conditions in fruits, the application of Q products increased phenolic compounds synthesis; additionally, an increase in Ca and Mn concentrations was shown. KIO3 application increased the firmness and Mn. In leaves, the application of Q products increased chlorophyll a, b and calcium. In conclusion, the application of iodine improves the quality value of strawberries under normal conditions and provides an enhancement of salt stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate, soil and tree water status, fruit yields and quality of 'Valencia' orange trees were monitored over five consecutive seasons (2007–2012) to study the effects of irrigation placement or volume. Three irrigation treatments were imposed: conventional irrigation (CI, 100% of crop evapotranspiration on both sides of the rootzone), partial rootzone drying (PRD, 50% of CI water only on one alternated side of the rootzone) and continuous deficit irrigation (DI, 50% of CI water on both sides of the rootzone). Yield parameters were generally not affected by PRD, and only yield per tree was lower in DI than CI trees. Fruit size and juice content were also reduced by DI, and not by PRD. Both PRD and DI increased juice soluble solids and acidity, vitamin C and carotenoid concentrations, as well as fruit, juice and sugar productivity per unit of irrigation water. Overall, the straight reduction of irrigation volumes by ~55% (DI) induced an average of 4.4% leaf dehydration, which caused significant fruit size reductions and a 3.4% reduction in juice yield, corresponding to a loss of about 2.6 tons of juice and 261 kg of sugars per hectare and year. On the other hand, water savings of about 2 mega liters per hectare and year with PRD caused a mild 2.3% leaf dehydration and mainly fruit quality improvements, indicating that PRD is a sustainable irrigation strategy for 'Valencia' orange. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, is the most devastating disease of citrus across the world, caused by the phloem limited fastidious bacterium 'Candidatus Liberibacter spp.'. This research was conducted on HLB infected 10-year-old Kinnow orchard located at Multan, Pakistan. Different classes of antibiotics in various combinations were applied on HLB-infected trees. The antibiotic treatments were applied before flowering in February, during fruit setting in April and at fruit growth stage in June. The different antibiotics combinations used were Ampicillin sodium + Rifampicin, Cefalexin + Rifampicin, Ampicillin sodium + Cefalexin, Ampicillin sodium + Cefalexin + Rifampicin and Control (distilled water). Different fruit qualitative and quantitative attributes were examined. The application of antibiotics significantly decreased 2–11% in flower, June and pre-harvest drops as compared to control. Further, antibiotics increased fruit weight and yield by five times while the juice content, total soluble solids, ripening index, total sugars, phenolic and vitamin C content were also increased in fruits. In addition, total soluble proteins, peroxidase and catalase activities were increased in fruits harvested from antibiotic treated plants compared to control, however the superoxidase dismutase activity was decreased in fruits of antibiotic treated plants. Finally, it is concluded that application of different antibiotics combinations helps in improving the fruit yield and different quality attributes of HLB infected Kinnow trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]