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In recent decades, the growth of energy consumption and environmental pollution has increased significantly. The purpose of this study is to provide a suitable solution for energy, economic and environmental analysis in grape and olive production. The energy output of grapes in traditional and semi-mechanized production was 253110 MJ ha−1 and 284380 MJ ha−1, respectively. Also, olive energy output in traditional and semi-mechanized production was 56286 MJ ha−1 and 83780 MJ ha−1, respectively. Nitrogen consumption in both production methods also has the largest share of energy among the total energy of inputs with about 32 to 47%. The energy use efficiency of semi-mechanized grape production, traditional grape production, semi-mechanized olive production and traditional olive production were reported as 11.26, 9.66, 3.11 and 1.63, respectively. In economic results, the semi-mechanized grape production had a high profit to cost ratio (5.83) and productivity (38.88 kg $−1). The results of life cycle assessment of the two studied products showed that the highest value of aquatic eutrophication is related to the traditional production of olives (1051724.94 kg PO4- P limited) and the lowest value of this effect is related to the semi-mechanized production of grapes (106102.43 kg PO4- P limited). The values of global warming (865.01, 416.56, 143.23 and 122.17) kg CO2eq are related to traditional olive production, semi-mechanized olive production, traditional grape production and semi-mechanized grape cultivation, respectively. The most contaminants in the traditional method of olive (8688.52 PDF*m2*yr) and semi-mechanized olive (3869.91 MJ primary) were related to ecosystem quality and resources, respectively. The emissions of electricity, diesel fuel and machinery were higher in semi-mechanized production than in traditional production. According to results of energy, economic and environmental impacts semi-mechanized cultivation in two crops is better than traditional cultivation.

Meticulous analysis on intertwined interaction among the soil nutrients and microbial communities brings fruitful outcomes on horticulture. This study focuses on identifying well compatible bacterial genera in enhancing soil primary macro-nutrients for sustainable vegetable crops cultivation. The biochemical tests were executed for identification of bacterial genera. Eventually, mathematical models among available NPK nutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) and identified bacterial genera were derived to determine most suited bacterial genus for nutrients inhibition. This Study reveals the present nutrient’s status of soils at Anaimalai block covering 12,424 ha of Coimbatore district in Tamil Nadu. Seven utilitarian bacterial genera were identified which inhibit the plant nutrients. Among them, Azotobacter, Arthrobacter and Achromobacter actively inhibit available NPK in the soil. Present study of correlating soil nutrients with bacterial components enriches successful conservation of biosphere through adopting these innovative technologies in horticulture.

This service activity aims to increase people's income through the development of horticultural crops, especially spinach, long beans and chicory. The activity was carried out by 6 students and lecturers of the Indonesian Christian University Paulus. The program of activities was carried out in Pana Village, Alla District, Enrekang Regency. The technique of implementing service activities includes making gardens around the community's home yards including community preparation, nurseries, land preparation, planting and fertilizing plants. The results of the activities achieved include the availability of vegetables for the participants to consume and some can be sold to the nearest market

Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a serious polyphagous pest of various field and horticultural crops. A complete knowledge on the morphological features of antennal sensory structures is essential for efficient semiochemical-based control methods. The external structure and distribution of antennal sensilla in male and female adults of H. armigera were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Eight distinct morphological types of sensilla were identified in both sexes: sensilla trichodea, sensilla basiconica, sensilla auricillica, sensilla coeloconica (multiporous), sensilla chaetica (uniporous), sensilla styloconica, sensilla squamiformia, and Böhm sensilla (aporous) in varying numbers and distribution along the length of the antennae. Of these sensilla, the most widespread are sensilla trichodea and sensilla basiconica on the antennae of both sexes. Female antennae have comparatively greater number of sensilla trichodea than male antennae. Among eight types of sensilla, sensilla basiconica, auricillica, styloconica type II, squamiformia, and Böhm sensilla were identified and reported for the first time in H. armigera. Sexual dimorphism in H. armigera was mainly detected as the variations in sensilla shape, numbers, and distribution of each type of sensilla. The sexual difference was observed in the numbers of sensilla coeloconica, chaetica, styloconica, and squamiformia per flagellomere. The possible functions of these sensilla were discussed in view of previously reported lepidopteran insects. The findings provide fundamental information on the morphology and distribution of antennal sensory structures in H. armigera. It would be useful for further detailed studies on physiological and behavioral function of each sensillum type and helpful for formulating related pest control methods.

Food is indispensable for fulfilling the nutritional requirements of living beings. The principal source of food, nutrition and feed are horticultural commodities. Grains, pulses, fruits, vegetables, flowers, ornamental plants and medicinal plants are just a few of the important horticulture crops that are widely grown as cash crops by farmers and to meet these needs. However, eventually, horticulture crops are facing major challenges to enhance the productivity of field crops due to changes in environmental conditions. Crops are affected by many environmental stresses including both biotic as well as abiotic. Environmental stresses affect the overall growth, development, physiology and metabolism of plants which leads to the loss of crop quality produce and yield. Old approaches to decipher the mechanism of stress management and overall improvement in plants are involved with tedious experiments, long breeding programs and different cultivation environments. With the advancement in the field of bioinformatics and next-generation sequencing technologies, it has become possible to study the molecular mechanisms of plants coping with stresses. It is the need of the hour to investigate the mechanism of stress tolerance in economically important horticultural crops. This area has sought the attention of horticulturists as many regions are under the spell of environmental alterations and climate change. Thus, this review takes up the genetic and epigenetic aspects of stress management in high-value horticultural fruit and vegetable plants.

Horticultural products are an important source of carbohydrates, proteins, organic acids, vitamins and minerals for human nutrition. The objective of this study is to evaluate energy use pattern, environmental impacts and cumulative exergy demand analysis under different cropping systems including pistachio, nectarine, peach and apple in Qazvin province of Iran. Results showed the total energy consumption of pistachios, nectarines, peaches and apples were 24100 MJ ha −1, 25150 MJ ha −1, 30100 MJ ha −1 and 26800 MJ ha −1, respectively. The life cycle assessment method is considered as an appropriate assessment tool for ecosystem analysis through identification, quantification and evaluation of discharged and released resources in the environment. Analysis used ReCiPe2016 method, three environmental categories including (human health, ecosystems and resources) in this study were selected to cover different environmental impacts. On-Orchard emissions and chemical fertilizers are two important factors in the environmental emissions of horticultural products. The share of On-Orchard publications in pistachio, nectarine and peach crops is more than 75% related to human damage category. In addition, the amount of nitrogen in the ecosystem category has a significant effect. The results related to the resource damage category show that the rate of nitrogen release in pistachios, nectarines, peaches and apples is about 45%, 40%, 35% and 30%, respectively. Cumulative exergy demand analysis shows that pistachio and nectarine products have the highest and lowest energy release in all forms, respectively. In general, it can be concluded that the use of organic fertilizers and replacement of worn equipment can help to produce more sustainable horticultural products. Also, it is recommended for future studies use of modeling methods to predict the products under study as well as fuzzy optimization methods to save energy and reduce environmental impact.

Colocasia esculenta (taro), Ipomoea batatas (sweet potato), Abelmoschus esculentus (okra), Ananas cosmosus (pineapple), Musa paradisiaca (plantain), and Anacardium occidentale (cashew) are economically important horticultural crops in West Africa, which are widely grown across the region under rain fed conditions. They are very important set of crops that provides income for the individuals involved with it and thus contributing to economy of West African nation’s. For Predicting the potential future habitat suitability of these crops under different climate scenarios holds significance for their continuous cultivation and effective management. The Maxent model was used in this study to predict habitat suitability of these crops under current and future climatic conditions based on two representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) for the years 2050s and 2070s. The data used were the occurrence records from Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) and WorldClim’s bioclimatic environmental predictor variables. The findings of this experiment showed that the habitat suitability of some crop species will =decrease and in some it will increase. Suitable habitat was predicted to decrease within the semi-arid and arid areas of the region, especially on those countries in northern part which includes Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, as early as by 2070s. For species like okra, sweet potato and taro, there will be further decline as predicted under the higher emission scenario of RCP 8.5. The suitable habitat for cashew remained stable for future in all the models and scenarios used. This work provides the first theoretical guidance for possible future cultivation of these horticultural crops in the West Africa.

Background The role of melatonin as a neurotransmitter has been much discussed and studied topic in the animal kingdom but its possible role as a ubiquitous biomolecule with the pleiotropic effect is still at infancy stage in the plant kingdom. Melatonin was just known to be the hormone in the human body which regulates our sleep through its involvement in circadian rhythm or biological clock until its detection in the plant kingdom in the early 90s. Since then, scientists worldwide started working prospectively about its various functions and roles in plants. Now its role in attenuating abiotic and biotic stresses in standing crops has been studied and validated at a commercial level in various cereal and horticultural crops. Food is thy medicine but the abusive use of chemicals rendered them poisonous and consumers being more vigilant and mindful about the food they are consuming are now demanding the chemical free food stuffs. So, in recent years, the trend of using safer alternatives for the control of postharvest diseases of fresh fruits and vegetables have shown a significant increase and hence pressurized the scientists to think about the potential use of melatonin for various postharvest problems. Scope and approach In this review, we have discussed briefly about melatonin's function as potent postharvest treatment for controlling biotic and abiotic stresses and had made an attempt to gather information on its possible roles in postharvest management of fruits and vegetables. Key findings and conclusions Melatonin can be a good alternative to harmful chemicals which are used commercially in postharvest management of fruits. The use of melatonin addresses the major hurdles in postharvest management of fruits such as chilling injury and fruit decay, and it helps in extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by delaying ripening and senescence whilst maintaining better fruit quality.

In developing countries, food systems are mainly characterized by unorganized, traditional supply chains, and limited market infrastructure. Bulk quantity of the harvested produce is lost every year because of the absence of proper postharvest handling and management practices. The current study was conducted to estimate and identify the major causes for postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables in Debre Markos, north-western Ethiopia. Forty respondents who were retailing fruits and vegetables were randomly selected and qualitative and quantitative data were collected by using direct market observation and semistructured questioners. The result of the present study revealed significant differences between sociodemographic factors, handling practices, and postharvest loss. Educational status, selling experience, and packaging material have a significant relationship with postharvest loss. A significant difference was obtained among the transportation methods used, the selling place, storage methods, and materials. The result also indicated that fewer than 20 percent of respondents practiced selling fruits and vegetables in the resident mini shop. The majority of damaged produce was sold at a discount price. Retailers do not have formal knowledge of postharvest handling practices. The average postharvest losses of fruits and vegetables were estimated to be five to eighty-three percent of the market share. Mainly, during retailing, rotting, mechanical damage, poor handling, improper management of temperature and relative humidity, and hygiene problems during handling are among the major causes of postharvest losses. To reduce the high postharvest loss and supply quality products for consumers throughout the year, intervention activities such as the construction of permanent selling place for perishables, practicing various evaporative cooling technologies, outset training, awareness creation, and infrastructures should be effectively and urgently addressed.

Plants demonstrate dynamic changes in molecular structures under fluctuating light conditions. Accumulating evidence suggests that light plays a vital role in plant growth and morphogenesis. In particular, light has a role in the absorption and utilization of nutrients in plants. Despite significant progress in understanding the mechanism of nutrient acquisition and assimilation, how light affects and regulates ion uptake remains a question. Studies in model plants, Arabidopsis thaliana, suggest that light affects the nutrient utilization in roots through a complex regulatory network; nonetheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying the various effects of light on these processes in crop plants remain fragmentary. In this review, we discuss the light effects (light quality, light intensity, and photoperiod) on nutrient uptake and utilization in horticultural crops for optimizing crop productivity and increasing fertilizer use efficiency.

Amblyseius swirskii is a predatory mite that is widely used for biological control in greenhouses. One way this predator is released is in a formulation in slow-release sachets. These sachets are prepared with the predatory mite, the factitious prey mite Carpoglyphus lactis, and a food substrate for the latter. The objective of the present study was to study the effects of microclimatic conditions in this type of formulation on the population dynamics of mites inside the sachets and on the release of predatory mites. These experiments were conducted under laboratory conditions in two trials. The ambient relative humidity affected the water content of the food substrate of the prey mite inside the sachets, with an initial value of 21.49 ± 0.42%, which was reduced to values of 4.7 ± 0.25%, 10.87 ± 1.03% and 17.27 ± 0.82% after 21 days of trials when they were exposed to low, medium and high ambient relative humidity levels, respectively. Relative humidity significantly altered the dynamics of the populations of both species inside the sachets and the exits of the predator from the sachets to the external environment.

Sustainable agriculture is essential to address global challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss. Hedgerows enhance aboveground biodiversity and provide ecosystem services, but little is known about their impact on soil biota. Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi are one of the key components of belowground biodiversity. We compared the diversity and composition of AM fungal communities at four farmland sites located in Central Spain, where 132 soil samples in total were collected to assess soil physical and chemical properties and the AM fungal communities. We compared the richness (number of AM fungal taxa), taxonomic, functional, and phylogenetic diversity, and structure of the AM fungal communities across three farmland habitat types, namely hedgerows, woody crops (olive groves and vineyard), and herbaceous crops (barley, sunfower, and wheat). Our results showed positive efects of hedgerows on most diversity metrics. Almost 60% of the AM fungal taxa were shared among the three farmland habitat types. Hedgerows increased AM fungal taxonomic richness (31%) and alpha diversity (25%), and especially so compared to herbaceous crops (45% and 28%, respectively). Hedgerows harbored elevated proportions of AM fungi with non-ruderal life-history strategies. AM fungal communities were more similar between hedgerows and woody crops than between hedgerows and adjacent herbaceous crops, possibly because of diferences in tillage and fertilization. Unexpectedly, hedgerows reduced phylogenetic diversity, which might be related to more selective associations of AM fungi with woody plants than with herbaceous crops. Overall, the results suggest that planting hedgerows contributes to maintain belowground diversity. Thus, European farmers should plant more hedgerows to attain the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030., Ministerio de Educación y Formación Profesional, Comunidad de Madrid, REMEDINAL, Universidad de Alcalá, Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional-FEDER, Estonian Research Council

In New Zealand, the introduced honey bee (Apis mellifera) is a valuable production animal, providing pollination services for horticultural crops and significant export volumes of honey, especially...

For more than a decade actors in Europe, North America and Australasia have been warning of crises with horticultural skills, highlighting shortages of specialists, educational programmes and traineeships. Related warnings predict worsening shortages of skilled workers essential for production of horticultural crops. Analysis of recent strategies from the UK finds these problems poorly defined and characterised, without articulating what horticultural skills comprise, tending to misconstrue problems and causes. This paper aims to characterise food growing knowledge systems and challenges they face. The result is a new definition of and conceptual framework for horticultural skills to enhance understanding of the sector's problems and formulation of solutions. The framework valorises knowledge of workers often portrayed as unskilled, and demonstrates how skills and labour challenges are wholly inter-linked. Knowledge flows are found to be affected by multiple impediments which contribute to a sense of crisis. Unresolved questions regarding this skills system present avenues for research to better understand the future prospects of food production skills, and demonstrate the value critical social science can bring to this topic.

Fruits and vegetables are highly perishable in nature and have a very short shelf-life. During different handling and marketing procedures, there is massive post-harvest loss of horticulture produce, either or both qualitative and quantitative, between harvest and consumption. Factors affecting post-harvest losses differ with topography, varieties of crops, climate, etc. and are difficult to understand. Considering the fact, the present study aims to describe the status of post-harvest losses of horticultural produce and their potential management techniques. Secondary data is used to collect the related information. The demand of high-quality horticulture produce is increasing due to its healthy nutrition. Post-harvest management of the produce includes pre- and post-harvest practices, their handling, packaging, storage, distribution, and marketing. The storage life and marketable quality of the produce can be maximized by limiting (not stopping) the respiration and transpiration through proper control of temperature and relative humidity of the produce. The right selection of packaging materials and technologies play vital role in maintaining product quality and freshness during storage and distribution. Moreover, the innovative techniques like modified active packaging, active and intelligent packaging, controlled atmospheric storage, and use of antimicrobial could extend the shelf life of produce to a significant time. This review mainly focuses on the causes of qualitative and quantitative losses of horticulture produce along with the effective measures to control the losses in Nepalese context. It emphasized on the adoption of innovative technologies to improve the storage life, marketable quality and freshness of the produce.

Environmental factors in particular temperature, humidity, and atmosphere of packaging can control the postharvest physiology and variations in the chemical composition of horticultural crops during storage. Most fruits and vegetables release ethylene, as one of the simplest phyto-hormones, after harvest. Ethylene initiates ripening, produces softening and degradation of chlorophylls, and ultimately causing deterioration of fresh commodities. There are different methods to reduce ethylene production or inhibit its action to retain fruit and vegetable quality and extend their shelf life. Therefore, ethylene action can be limited at the receptor level (for example 1-MCP and Selenium), or through an effective elimination of released ethylene in the atmosphere. Among the emerging technologies, incorporation of nanoparticles into polymer matrix plays a major role in reducing the permeability of gases as well as absorption of ethylene. Accordingly, the present article reviews the characteristics, application types and effectiveness of ethylene control strategies for perishable commodities and their future aspects.

Protected cultivation structures provide favorable environment for crop growth thereby achieving greater yield and high quality produce. The objective of this work was to evaluate the microclimate parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation and light intensity underdifferent protected cultivation structures in comparison with open field condition. Four types of protected cultivation structures (polyhouse, walking tunnel,shadenet house and modified greenhouse) were considered for the study. Meteorological data of seven years (2010-2016), recorded on daily basis were used for micro climate analysis of different protected cultivation structures. FAO-56 Penman Monteith approach was used to estimate the reference crop evapotranspiration under different kind of protected cultivation structures.Study shows that walking tunnel, polyhouse and modified greenhouse structures offers a solar energy saver and enhances temperature inside the structures. The total water requirement of drip irrigated crops in protected cultivation structure is reduced by about 25% to 35% under different protected cultivation structures in comparison to open field cultivation. This paper also presents the difference incrop yield grown under protected cultivation structures and open field condition.

Horticulture is now acknowledged as being a vital driver for economic development, poverty reduction and enhanced nutrition for populations in developing countries. Tamil Nadu is one of the foremost horticulture States in India, contributing 7.7 percent to the national horticultural production with 5.7 percent of the national level area. The horticultural crops contain the remarkable potential for export earnings within the State. Cardamom and pepper are important species of Tamil Nadu; Plantation crops of Tamil Nadu are coffee and tea, and that they are traditionally exporting products. Flowers have small areas in Tamil Nadu, but the price of production per hectare is substantial. Palmarosa and indigo are cultivated in negligibly small rooms, mostly for export. Therefore, this paper examines the progress, problems and constraints of the horticulture scenario in Tamilnadu.

Drought is a major abiotic stress limiting growth and productivity of field and horticultural crops. Exogenous application of silicon (Si) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inoculation has the...

Kubis merupakan salah satu tanaman sayuran milik Genus Brassica, anggota Family Cruciferae (Brassicaeae). Tanaman ini berasal dari daerah subtropis dan sudah lama dibudidayakan di Indonesia. Ekosistem lanskap tanaman sangat dinamis, baik dari faktor biotik maupun abiotiknya. Organisme pengganggu tanaman merupakan penghambat dan faktor penghambat produksi di Indonesia baik tanaman pangan, tanaman hortikultura maupun tanaman perkebunan. Tumpang sari adalah pola tanam yang membudidayakan lebih dari satu jenis tanaman dalam suatu wilayah pada waktu yang bersamaan. Tumpang sari merupakan salah satu upaya dalam program intensifikasi pertanian untuk mengoptimalkan produksi tanaman dan menjaga kesuburan tanah. Tujuan penelitian lapangan ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh teknik kultur terhadap serangan hama terhadap budidaya kubis di Desa Kerinjing, Kecamatan Dempo Utara, Kota Pagar Alam. Metode observasi yang diterapkan dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode purposive sampling. Data yang dikumpulkan adalah data primer berupa intensitas kerusakan dan data sekunder dikumpulkan dengan wawancara dengan petani. Berdasarkan analisis data mingguan intensitas kerusakan pada tiga pertanaman kubis yang berbeda di Desa Kerinjing, tidak terdapat perbedaan yang signifikan antar tanaman yang budidaya. Kata Kunci : Hama, Tanaman Kubis, Kultur Teknis, Spodoptera litura.

Shallots are one of the horticultural crops cultivated by the Pattunggalengan Farmer Groups in Banggae Village, Takalar Regency, whose production is decreasing. The decline in production is influenced by application inorganic systems and use of seeds that are not superior because they come from multiplied tillers and cultivation systems that are semi-manual. The purpose of this activity’s to provide counseling and assistance on onion cultivation innovation in Pattunggalengan Farmer Groups, from selecting seeds, making planting demonstration plots, fertilizing, planting, watering and harvesting. The method used was discussion group forum and making of planting demonstration plot using Super Philip and drip irrigation. The soil pH condition demonstration plot location was 6.5, which classified optimal but was given organic fertilizer to provide macro nutrients, shallot seeds by giving mankozeb fungicide with drip irrigation watering system on each sample bed. The yield obtained with 100 kg and the number of seeds were 250 kg/100 m2. The counseling and mentoring that was carried out made the Pattunggalengan farmer know good soil cultivation, superior seeds and production resulting from the innovation of shallot cultivation

Hidroponik merupakan suatu inovasi budidaya tanaman tanpa menggunakan media tanah sebagai media tanam. Sebagai pengganti medianya menggunakan larutan mineral bernutrisi berbentuk cair bersamaan dengan air, ataupun bahan lain yang mengandung unsur hara seperti sabut kelapa, serat mineral, pasir, pecahan batu bata, serbuk kayu dan bahan lainnya berfungsi sebagai media. Tujuan kegiatan ini adalah: 1. meningkatkan pengetahuan petani/peternak tentang inovasi teknologi budidaya tanaman hortikultura, 2. peningkatan ketrampilan petani/peternak dalam penerapan teknologi hidroponik di lingkungannya, 3. penyemaian, penanaman dan pemeliharaan tanaman hortikultura dengan penerapan good agricultural practice (GAP) dengan teknologi hidroponik, 4. pemanfaatan lahan pekarangan rumah dalam budidaya tanaman dengan teknologi hidroponik. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan di Nagari Sungai Kunyit Kabupaten Solok Selatan. Metode kegiatan yang yang dilakukan berupa sosialisasi hidroponik, diskusi tanya jawab dan demonstrasi penerapan bercocok tanam menggunakan teknologi hidroponik. Hasil kegiatan yang diperoleh telah berhasil memberdayakan masyarakat Nagari Sungai Kunyit, Solok Selatan dan meningkatkan minat dan pengetahuannya dalam pemanfaatan lahan pekarangan rumah untuk mengembangkan budidaya teknologi hidroponik. Program kerja ini mampu meningkatkan semangat petani dan dapat mengaplikasikan praktek pembuatan budidaya tanaman hortikultura di lahan pekarangan masing-masing. Dari kegiatan yang telah dilaksanakan ini dapat disimpulkan bahwa masyarakat di Nagari Sungai Kunyit, Solok Selatan memberikan respon positif terhadap kegiatan yang dilaksanakan bahkan sangat bernilai dan bermanfaat.

Paprika is one of the leading commodities of horticulture in the provinces of West Java. West Java is the largest contributors to the national paprika in Indonesia, this leads to support the community welfare and regional development there. One of an area in West Java Province that produces paprika is CV Cantigi at Cikandang village of Garut Regency. CV Cantigi produces a variety of horticultural crops, but the main commodity is paprika. Every period CV Cantigi experienced various risk events in paprika production, thus making the productivity decrease. The purpose of this study is to identify the risks that occur in paprika production in CV Cantigi and determine the mitigation actions to minimize the risks that arise. This research uses descriptive qualitative method with the house of the risk analysis tool. The results showed that 25 risk events occurred in the process of paprika production in CV Cantigi. There are 3 mitigation actions for paprika production that is producing paprika plants under the shade because paprika plants need optimal temperatures to grow, making a planting calendar to determine when the right time to produce paprika, and making observations before pest control so that there is no wrong target with mitigation actions then it can be minimized or reducing the emergence of priority risk agents.

FROM THE HEADLINES, you might think that robots are on the point of replacing hard-working human fruit, veg and flower pickers, thus solving the difficulties that farmers have in recruiting a workforce to bring in the harvest. The reality is somewhat different. Robots that can mass-harvest horticultural crops may be at least five years away – but prototypes are already working in fields, glasshouses and poly tunnels to plant cuttings, control disease, pick berries and assist in the breeding process.

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill; Solanaceae) is one of the major horticultural crops cultivated in India. In order to ensure year-round availability of tomatoes, farmers are shifting to protected cultivation practices. Although the name ‘protected cultivation’ suggests freedom from biotic as well as abiotic hindrances in crop cultivation, incidence of pests have been reported in crops grown under polyhouses. This causes net house cultivators to use more chemical insecticides. Thus, an environmentally safe and economical method, comprising sticky traps, was evaluated for the management of sucking pests of tomato grown under protected conditions. Sticky traps of different shapes (rectangle, circle and triangle) and colours (yellow, blue and silver) were evaluated against sucking pests of tomato in 2018. The sticky trap, which found most efficient during 2018, was installed at different rates (2, 4 and 6 traps/250 m2) in the year 2019. Among the various sticky traps evaluated, yellow colour and rectangular trap proved best among the other shapes and colours against the aphids and whiteflies infesting tomato under protected conditions. On standardization of yellow-rectangular trap in 2019, a rate of installation of 4, 6 and 2, 4, 6 traps per 250 m2 were effective in reducing the population of aphids and whiteflies, respectively. Hence it could be concluded that yellow-rectangular sticky trap installed at a rate of 4 per 250 m2 proved effective against sucking pests of tomato grown under protected conditions.

Protected cultivation is an innovative way of raising seasonal and off-seasonal crops under a controlled environment. Vegetables and flower crops have tremendous potential to augment productivity, generate employment, utilize land efficiently and enhance export. This study was undertaken to assess the economic feasibility of protected cultivation in the high export potential zones of the Pune and Nasik districts of Maharashtra, India, by employing project analytical tools and the regression model. The results revealed that the cultivation of flowers and vegetables under protected cultivation was highly lucrative with high investment. The protected cultivation of rose and capsicum had higher cultivation cost (300%), gross return (250%) and net return (190%) as compared to open cultivation. Moreover, most of the crops grown in polyhouses are highly profitable at different discount rates (7%, 10% and 12%), whereas a few crops were rewarding under shade net condition with subsidies. Factors such as literacy (p < 0.05), income (p < 0.05), access to subsidy (p < 0.05) and the risk orientation index (p < 0.01) were found statistically significant in technology adoption. In the context of a changing climate and shrinking land resources, water scarcity, incidence of pests and diseases, an ever-increasing population, low productivity under open conditions and changes in consumer’s preference are the drivers for switching over to protected cultivation. In the recent past, protected cultivation has been gaining importance in different parts of the country, including Maharashtra. The policy implications are creating modern infrastructure, enhanced application of ICTs, maximum crop production with minimum utilization of land and institutional support to promote technology on a commercial scale.

RESUMEN: El objetivo del presente estudio fue identificar larvas urticantes de Lepidoptera encontradas en parcelas con cultivos hortícolas en Cerro Punta, Chiriquí, Panamá y confirmar los posibles síntomas causados por erucismo y lepidopterismo. Se realizaron 16 muestreos aleatorios durante 14 meses y medio, en parcelas con cultivos, vegetación aledaña e infraestructuras. Se tomaron fotografías y se recolectaron muestras para su procesamiento en el laboratorio. Se consultó literatura especializada para la identificación. Se levantó una encuesta a 33 personas afectadas por erucismo o lepidopterismo. De acuerdo con los resultados, las larvas encontradas en los cultivos correspondieron a Leucanella hosmera (Schaus, 1941) (Saturniidae), Halysidota tessellaris (Smith, 1797) (Erebidae), Acharia stimulea (Clemens, 1860) (Limacodidae) y se encontró un espécimen adulto de Megalopyge opercularis (Smith, 1797) (Megalopygidae) en una pared. En vegetación silvestre, se encontraron larvas de L. hosmera y posiblemente Automeris pallidior Draudt, 1929 (Saturniidae), alimentándose de Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich (Rubiaceae). La encuesta reflejó como síntomas frecuentes por erucismo o lepidopterismo ardor, dolor e inflamación en un 93,9%, requiriéndose atención médica en 18,18% de los casos. En conclusión, se identificaron cinco especies de larvas urticantes asociadas a cultivos hortícolas en Cerro Punta, las cuales representan un riesgo potencial para la salud. ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to identify Lepidoptera stinging larvae found in plots with horticultural crops in Cerro Punta, Chiriquí, Panama and to confirm the possible symptoms caused by erucism and lepidopterism. About 16 random samplings were carried out during 14 and a half months, in plots with crops, surrounding vegetation and infrastructure. Photographs were taken and samples were collected for processing in the laboratory. Specialized literature was consulted for identification. A survey of 33 people affected by erucism or lepidopterism was carried out. According to the results, the larvae found on the crops corresponded to Leucanella hosmera (Schaus, 1941) (Saturniidae), Halysidota tessellaris (Smith, 1797) (Erebidae), Acharia stimulea (Clemens, 1860) (Limacodidae) and an adult specimen of Megalopyge opercularis (Smith, 1797) (Megalopygidae) was also found on a wall. In wild vegetation, L. hosmera and possibly Automeris pallidior Draudt, 1929 (Saturniidae) larvae were found feeding on Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich (Rubiaceae). The survey reflected burning, pain and inflammation as frequent symptoms due to erucism or lepidopterism in 93.9%, requiring medical attention in 18.18% of cases. In conclusion, five species of stinging larvae associated with horticultural crops were identified in Cerro Punta, which represent a potential health risk.

Plant tissue testing requires the selection of the appropriate plant part at best stage of growth when it contains higher content of nutrients. The paper discusses the appropriate stage of growth and plant part to sample for a variety of crops. Micronutrient concentrations were consistently higher in leaves than in any other part of the plant. Leaf sheath in cereals and stems in dicots contained the least amount of nutrients. It is recommended that recently matured leaves in cereals and Brassica spp., young leaves in soybeans and potatoes, and entire plant tops at the 10% bloom stage for forage legumes be sampled to determine the micronutrient nutrient status of these crops.

Termites are polyphagous pests causing economic losses to a large number of crops worldwide. Among 3105 species of termites, about 185 species are considered as pests globally. The termites that belong to family Termitidae are known to cause great losses to agricultural and horticultural crops. In India, Odontotermes obesus (Rambur) and Microtermes obesi Holmgren damage crops in both vegetative and reproductive stages, especially wheat, maize, barley, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, plantations, sugarcane, cotton etc. The damage can lead to almost 100% yield losses, especially if it occurs in early stages of crop growth. Over the past 60 years, many insecticides from several chemical groups have been used for the management of termites globally. But no single method of control provides a permanent solution. Therefore, IPM approaches viz., cultural, mechanical, biological (Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Steinernema carpocapsae, Heterorhabditis indica, Bacillus theuringiensis, Pseudomonas fluorescens etc.) methods, and botanical extracts must be integrated with insecticides in farmer’s field to reduce termite problems.

Growing media plays major role in cultivation of a crop. There are different combinations of growing media which is used in the cultivation of horticultural crops in troughs, growbags and pots for better utilization of resources. Soil based media is also used in pot culture as it is easily available and economical in use. Soil with sand and FYM is a good combination of media. In some cases FYM along with vermi compost is used for better results. Cocopeat is now becoming an alternative growing media especially in case of cultivation in pot culture inside protected structures and in urban areas. This cocopeat media is used mainly with perlite, vermiculite but also used extensively in combination with organic matter like FYM, vermicompost which acts as good source of nutrition for the growth of crop. In this purpose review of literature on effect on combinations of growing media for cultivation of horticultural crops has been done and compiled to report for further modification and better use.

Grafting has been commonly practiced for many centuries in the cultivation of horticultural crops. The use of dwarfing rootstocks has enabled a high-density plantation to produce maximum yield. Rootstock regulates scion phenotype, including precocity, fruit size, yield, quality characteristics, and tolerance to various environmental stresses. This review summarizes the existing information on the influence of rootstocks on scion growth and dwarfing mechanisms induced by multiple factors, including hormone signaling, photosynthesis, mineral transport, water relations, anatomical characteristics, and genetic markers. It has been shown that the complex interactions between scion and rootstock can regulate plant development and its structure. This information will provide interesting insights for future research related to rootstock-mediated dwarfing mechanisms and accelerate the breeding progress of dwarfing rootstocks.

Value addition in agriculture predominantly offers a means to increase, rejuvenate and stabilize farm income. Value-added agriculture is fundamentally market-driven. It needs trained and skilled manpower to cope with the demand of rapidly changing markets. The present study was conducted in Haryana state and two districts Hisar from southwest and Sonipat from northeast were selected, purposively. From each district, three blocks were selected randomly. Further, three villages were selected from each block making a total of 18 villages. From each village, ten farmers were selected randomly, making a total sample of 180 farmers. It was found that majority of the respondents were interested in taking training of ‘Farm level packaging and storage’, ‘Development of commercial horticultural nursery for fruit trees and vegetables crops’, ‘Processing and value addition’ and ‘Packaging of nursery plants’. DAE (Directorate of Agriculture Extension) should arrange training programmes based on the necessity of the farmers. Otherwise, it will not bring any positive outcome in the crop production systems of Haryana.

Integrated water management means putting all the pieces together. Social, environmental, and technical aspects must be taken into consideration. Issues of concern include: providing forums; Reshaping planning processes; Coordination of land and water resources management; Identify the links between water sources and water quality; Develop protocols for integrated watershed management; Addressing institutional challenges; Protecting and restoring natural systems; Reformulation of existing projects; Knowing the views of society; Clarify education and communication risks; Technology standardization and policy; Form partnerships and emphasize preventive measures. The highest priority for water resource management is to increase the demand for water with limited water resources. Water resources are the foundation for sustainable development, so a sustainable approach must be based on the use and management of water resources. In the twenty-first century, the world faces a major water crisis. The problems stem from errors in the management of water resources. Consequently, the sustainable use of water resources is crucial for humanity. Sustainable development is defined as the goals of supply and today's needs without jeopardizing the goals and requirements of future generations. Long-term goals should be considered instead of short-term goals in assessing water resources. This approach forms the idea of integrated water resource management for horticultural crops. This paper describes the evolution of water use in relation to productivity, how irrigation systems have developed and managed, and a strategy to explore challenges and opportunities for water conservation in horticulture crops.

Genetic engineering techniques offer opportunities for deliberate modulation and enhance the bio-functionality and bio-availability of horticultural crops, particularly fruit and vegetable which ca...

Population variations of predatory hoverflies in agroecosystems depend mainly on the resources that crops and wild vegetation provides them as well as death caused by natural enemies. We identified I) aphidophagous hoverfly species in lettuce and broccoli crops in Buenos Aires, II) the seasonal variations of the immature stages and their larval parasitism, and III) the wild plants, surrounding the crops, visited by adults. Fortnightly, 30 leaves were randomly selected in both crops during 2018-2019 and immature stages of syrphids and aphids per leaf were recorded. Adults were manually collected in patches of the wild plants (during 10 min of direct observations), and plants visited by adults were determined. The hoverflies were Allograpta exotica Wiedemann and Toxomerus duplicatus Wiedemann. Only A. exotica was recorded in crops. The dominant aphids were Myzus persicae (Sulzer) in lettuce and Brevycorine brassicae (L.) in broccoli. Parasitism rates ranged between 8 and 100% and the species were Diplazon laetatorius (Fabricius), in both crops, and Pachyneuron aff. nelsoni only in broccoli. Galinsoga parviflora Cav. and Matricaria chamomilla L. were the wild plants most often visited by hoverflies. This work provides basic information for the control of aphids by hoverflies in the framework of conservation biological control

Potassium-solubilizing bacteria (KSB) are often used in the field of vegetable and horticultural crops. In this study, a strain of Bacillus pseudomycoides was used as the KSB strain and different c...

The development of the agricultural area in the city of Ternate is intended to create an equitable economic area throughout the city of Ternate. For this reason, research on the analysis of agricultural potential in the economic development of Ternate City is very important. This study aims, to determine the superior agricultural commodities in Ternate City, with LQ (location quotient) analysis. The results of LQ analysis can be seen that the commodity identified as the base commodity, namely palawijaya plant consisting of cassava, sweet potato and peanut corn, has the highest LQ value of 2.24 in West Ternate. Horticultural crops, namely mango, durian, breadfruit, salak, mangosteen and papaya, the highest LQ value was 0.93 in Moti sub-district. Whereas for horticultural crops, namely Chili, Long Beans, Cucumber, Onion, Kale, Tomato, Eggplant and Spinach, the highest LQ value was 1.4 8 in South Ternate.

Carotenoids are a group of widely distributed natural pigments. They give many horticultural plants the bright red, orange, and yellow colors, as well as the aroma and flavor. Carotenoids enhance the health value and represent an essential quality trait of horticultural products. Significant efforts have been made to correlate specific carotenoid production with pathway gene expression. Some transcription factors that directly regulate transcription of the pathway genes have been identified. Horticultural crops have evolved with complicated and multifaceted regulatory mechanisms to generate the enormous diversity in carotenoid content and composition. However, the diverse and complex control of carotenoid accumulation is still not well understood. In this review, we depict carotenoid accumulation pathways and highlight the recent progress in the regulatory control of carotenoid accumulation in horticultural plants. Because of the critical roles of chromoplasts for carotenoid hyperproduction, we evaluate chromoplast ultrastructures and carotenoid sequestrations. A perspective on carotenoid research in horticultural crops is provided.