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In this study, we investigated the influence of pedological parameters and variation of altitude on the mineral nutrients, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities of olive leaves. Samples of the Chetoui cultivar were collected from eight geographical locations with different altitudes. Levels of phenolic compounds varied according to the altitude. Classification of the locations revealed that altitude 1 (>500 m) was characterized by high levels of secoiridoids and simple phenols, while altitude 2 (500–300 m) and altitude 3 (

Agricultural waste, which is produced in large quantities annually, can be a threat to the environment. Biochar (BC) production represents a potential solution for reducing the amount of grapevine pruning residues and, accordingly, the impact on the environment and climate change. Biochar produced by the process of pyrolysis from grapevine pruning residues was investigated and characterized to be applied as an adsorbent of polyphenolic compounds with the aim of using the waste from viticultural production to obtain a quality product with adsorption and recovery potential. Standards of caffeic acid (CA), gallic acid (GA), and oleuropein (OLP) were used as polyphenolic representatives. The obtained data were fitted with the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms models to describe the adsorption process. The best KL (0.39) and R2 (0.9934) were found for OLP using the Langmuir model. Furthermore, the adsorption dynamics and recovery potential of BC were investigated using an adapted BC column and performed on an HPLC instrument. The adsorption dynamics of biochar resulted in the adsorption of 5.73 mg CA g−1 of BC, 3.90 mg GA g−1 of BC, and 3.17 mg OLP g−1 of BC in a 24 h contact. The online solid phase extraction of the compounds performed on an HPLC instrument yielded a recovery of 41.5 ± 1.71% for CA, 61.8 ± 1.16% for GA, and 91.4 ± 2.10% for OLP. The investigated biochar has shown a higher affinity for low-polar compound adsorption and, consequently, a higher polar compound recovery suggesting its potential as an efficient polyphenolic compound adsorbent.

The addition of compost or biochar to soils is a viable strategy to increase soil organic matter (SOM), especially if the amendments are produced from biomass wastes. The need for sustainable land management without sacrificing agricultural production is critical to alleviate negative impacts on soil quality, including loss of SOM and nutrients. Turning sewage sludge (SS) into compost or biochar can help in lowering its potential negative effects on soil and providing a viable strategy for SS management through its recycling in agriculture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term impact of SS in its composted or biochar form on the fungal and bacterial communities of the Terra Rossa soil by high-throughput sequencing. A greenhouse pot trial was conducted using a 2-factor experiment consisting of amendment type (compost, biochar) and sampling time (Day 0, 30, and 60) as the main factors. The results showed no effect of SS addition on fungal and bacterial species richness, as well as a shift in relative abundance of the fungal phylum Zygomycota and bacterial phylum Firmicutes and Thermomicrobia. Both bacterial and fungal community analyses showed changes when composted sewage sludge was applied. However, only the fungal community differed from the control soil by the end of the 60-day vegetation period of Chinese cabbage.

The potential effect of pre-inoculation of processing tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on yield and fruit properties was investigated in conventional production. Tomato seeds were sown in seedling trays filled with a substrate non-inoculated (AMF-) or inoculated (AMF+) by selected mycorrhizal strains. Seedlings were transplanted in Terra rossa soil and grown in conditions with mineral fertilization and irrigation. Tomato fruits were sampled at harvest. Tomato plants under both treatments had high levels of mycorrhizal colonization, due to applied inoculum (AMF+) or indigenous (AMF-) inoculum present in the soil. Applied AMF+ treatment increased P and decreased K content in tomato fruits. Content of trace elements such as As and V significantly increased, while Pb content significantly decreased in the fruits of AMF+ when compared to the AMF- treatment. No significant effect of AMF+ treatment was observed on yield, fruit quality (soluble solids, pH, total acidity, fruit firmness), lycopene and antioxidant activity of tomato fruits. The overall results suggest that processing tomato is highly susceptible to the indigenous AMF, while seedlings inoculation with selected AMF improves only total phenolic and P fruit content. This means that AMF have a potential application in commercial processing tomato production, however a targeted adaptation of management decissions is required for more extensive results.

In recent years, the production and application of biochar as a soil amendment produced from pruning residues has gained attention worldwide. Since the effect of grapevine rootstock type on grapevine-pruning residues used as feedstock for biochar production had not yet been researched, the present research was performed. Two grapevine rootstocks, different in vigor, were selected, with the hypothesis that they would affect their chemical composition and, consequently, the composition of the produced biochar. In this work, grapevine-pruning residues of the indigenous variety “Istrian Malvasia” (Vitis vinifera L.) grafted on 420A and SO4 rootstocks were analyzed and used for biochar production under three peak temperature programs (400 °C, 500 °C, and 600 °C). Higher pyrolysis temperature decreased yield but increased EC, ash, and TC content, as well as the content of most of the studied elements. On the other hand, grapevine rootstock type affected biochar EC, ash content, and specific surface area. Results showed that a more vigorous rootstock affects the produced biochar qualities by enhancing the above-mentioned properties. The present research showed that biochar produced from grapevine-pruning residues, especially at 500 °C or 600 °C, could be a valuable tool for the valorization of this biomass as a soil amendment.

Plant-based fertilizers, such as liquid plant extracts, contribute to the cultivation of vegetables, particularly in organic production. The objective of this study was to determine if aqueous nettle extract could be successfully used as a fertilizer, applied on the soil and foliarly, in green bean production under field conditions. The hypothesis was that it could successfully replace mineral fertilizers and be integrated into sustainable and organic agriculture. The experiment was conducted at two climatically and pedologically different locations (Zadar and Poreč) throughout two growing seasons (spring and autumn). Two types of aqueous nettle extracts were used: a short-term extract (SE) was prepared by the extraction of wild stinging nettle (183 g 10 L−1 of water) in water for 24 h, while a long-term extract (LE) was prepared at the same ratio with water extraction for 14 days. Both extracts were diluted with water at a ratio of 1:3 (extract:water) before use. The SE was applied foliarly, and LE, by pouring it onto the soil. The abovementioned treatments were compared with mineral fertilization with urea (U) and control (no fertilization (C)). Foliar fertilization with SE proved to be almost as efficient as fertilization with LE, poured onto soil, showing a positive effect on green bean vegetative parameters. Furthermore, aqueous nettle extracts showed a positive effect on the iron accumulation in the leaves.

This study evaluated the presence of bioactives in wild nettle leaves and stalks during the phenological stage and in the context of natural habitat diversity. Thus, wild nettle samples collected before flowering, during flowering and after flowering from 14 habitats situated in three different regions (continental, mountain and seaside) were analyzed for low molecular weight polyphenols, carotenoids and chlorophylls using UPLC-MS/MS and HPLC analysis, while the ORAC method was performed for the antioxidant capacity measurement. Statistical analysis showed that, when compared to the stalks, nettle leaves contained significantly higher amounts of analyzed compounds which accumulated in the highest yields before flowering (polyphenols) and at the flowering stage (pigments). Moreover, nettle habitat variations greatly influenced the amounts of analyzed bioactives, where samples from the continental area contained higher levels of polyphenols, while seaside region samples were more abundant with pigments. The levels of ORAC followed the same pattern, being higher in leaves samples collected before and during flowering from the continental habitats. Hence, in order to provide the product’s maximum value for consumers’ benefit, a multidisciplinary approach is important for the selection of a plant part as well as its phenological stage with the highest accumulation of bioactive compounds.

Manganese (Mn) is an essential element that intervenes in several plant metabolic processes. The olive tree, and its fruits and leaves, are known as a source of nutraceuticals since they are rich in biophenols. However, there is still a serious lack of data about biophenolic distribution in olive stems and roots under Mn fertilisation. In this context, our study aimed to examine the effects of Mn fertilisation on the biophenolic profile in the leaves, stems, and roots of the ‘Istarska bjelica’ olive cultivar. The experiment was set up in a greenhouse, during a period of five months, as a random block design consisting of three treatments with varying Mn concentrations in full-strength Hoagland’s nutrient solution (0.2 µM Mn, 12 µM Mn, and 24 µM Mn). The obtained results indicate that the amount of Mn in the examined olive plant tissues was significantly higher under 12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn treatments compared to that of the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. While the concentration of biophenols varied in roots depending on the compound in question, a strong positive impact of the increased Mn concentration in nutrient solution (12 µM Mn and 24 µM Mn) on the concentrations of the main biophenolic compounds was observed in stems. The concentration of oleuropein in leaves almost doubled at 24 µM Mn, with the highest Mn concentration, as compared to the 0.2 µM Mn treatment. The obtained results led to the conclusion that the supply of Mn could enhance the concentration of some biologically active compounds in olives grown hydroponically, implying a critical need for further investigation of Mn fertilisation practices in the conventional olive farming system.

This study evaluated the presence of bioactives in wild nettle leaves and stalks during the phenological stage and in the context of natural habitat diversity. Thus, wild nettle samples collected before flowering, during flowering and after flowering from 14 habitats situated in three different regions (continental, mountain and seaside) were analyzed for low molecular weight polyphenols, carotenoids and chlorophylls using UPLC-MS/MS and HPLC analysis, while the ORAC method was performed for the antioxidant capacity measurement. Statistical analysis showed that, when compared to the stalks, nettle leaves contained significantly higher amounts of analyzed compounds which accumulated in the highest yields before flowering (polyphenols) and at the flowering stage (pigments). Moreover, nettle habitat variations greatly influenced the amounts of analyzed bioactives, where samples from the continental area contained higher levels of polyphenols, while seaside region samples were more abundant with pigments. The levels of ORAC followed the same pattern, being higher in leaves samples collected before and during flowering from the continental habitats. Hence, in order to provide the product’s maximum value for consumers’ benefit, a multidisciplinary approach is important for the selection of a plant part as well as its phenological stage with the highest accumulation of bioactive compounds.

'Malvazija istarska' (Vitis vinifera L.) jedna je od najznačajnijih bijelih sorata u Hrvatskoj. Njezina kvaliteta prepoznata je kako u Hrvatskoj, tako i u cijelom svijetu. Stoga se domaći proizvođači sve češće odlučuju za proizvodnju vina i pjenušaca iz ove sorte. Mošt za proizvodnju baznoga vina za pjenušce po svome sastavu trebao bi zadovoljavati svojstva kao što su niža pH vrijednost i sadržaj šećera, te viši sadržaj ukupne kiselosti s većim udjelom vinske kiseline, naspram jabučne. S obzirom da se 'Malvazija istarska' uzgaja pretežito u Istri, gdje je klima mediteranska, a najzastupljenije tlo crvenica teško je zadovoljiti sva navedena svojstva, posebice u suhim i vrućim godinama. Stoga, cilj ovog istraživanja bio je utvrditi mogućnost pozitivnog djelovanja folijarne gnojidbe na navedena svojstva. Pokus je postavljen na sorti Malvazija istarska na podlozi SO4 2013. s četiri gnojidbena tretmana (T1- NPK, T2 - NPK + Agromag 6L (6% MgO), T3 - NPK + Agromag 6L + Fosforo 30L (30% P2O5) i T4 - NPK + Agromag 6L + Fosforo 30L + Bio Prot) u tri ponavljanja po slučajnom bloknom rasporedu (RCBD). Sveukupno određena pH vrijednost u moštu kretala se od 3,02 do 3,29, ukupna kiselost u moštu od 7,80 do 9,03 g/L, a sadržaj šećera od 76,00 – 81,00 °Oe. Najveća utvrđena koncentracija vinska kiselina bila je 4,49 g/l u tretmanu T3, koji je imao i najnižu utvrđenu koncentraciju jabučne kiseline 1,40 g/L. Značajan pozitivan utjecaj na sva svojstva imao je tretman T4., Istrian Malvasia' (Vitis vinifera L.) is one of the most important white varieties in Croatia. Its quality is recognized in Croatia as well as in the whole world. Therefore, producers are increasingly choosing to produce wine and sparkling wine from this variety. The must of base wine for sparkling wine in its composition should satisfy characteristics such as lower pH and sugar content and higher total acidity with higher tartaric acid than malic acid content. Due to the fact that Istrian Malvasia is grown mainly in Istria, where the climate is Mediterranean, and the most widespread soil is red soil, it is difficult to satisfy all the above characteristics, especially in dry and hot years. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the possibility of a positive effect of foliar fertilization on these properties. The present reserch was set on Istrian Malvasia variety on rootstock SO4 in 2013 with four fertilization treatments (T1 - NPK, T2 - NPK + Agromag 6L (6% MgO), T3 - NPK + Agromag 6L + Phosphorus 30L (30% P2O5) and T4 - NPK + Agromag 6L + Phosphorus 30L + Bio PROT) in three replicates per randomized complete block design (RCBD). Overall, must pH values varied from 3.02 to 3.29, total acidity in the must ranged from 7.80 to 9.03 g/L, while the sugar content from 76.00 to 81.00 ° Oe. The highest determined concentration of tartaric acid was 4.49 g / l in the T3 treatment, which also had the lowest determined concentration of malic acid 1.40 g / L. Treatment T4 had a significant positive effect on all properties.

Aroma profiles and phenolic components of white wines made from ’Pošip’ and ’Škrlet’ (Vitis vinifera L.) both native Croatian, non-aromatic grape varieties enhances the knowledge about these varieties, prepared without maceration (control) and subjected to the pre-fermentative cold maceration (CM). Individual phenolic compounds in wines were determined by high- performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system, while total phenolics and flavan-3-ols in wines were determined by spectrophotometric methods. CM had the significant impact on the total phenolic and flavan-3-ols composition of ’Škrlet’ wine. The significant increase of some individual phenolic compounds was observed in ’Pošip’ wine. Volatile aroma compounds in wines were determined by gas chromatography (GC) with the previous extraction on the solid phase micro extraction (SPME). The primary aroma compounds, i.e. terpenes were under the significant influence of CM process in ’Škrlet’ wine. Aroma profiles, based on the content of 24 specific compounds, grouped in eight aroma series that contribute to wine odor were developed. CM significantly increased five aroma series in ’Škrlet’ wine and only three in ’Pošip’ wine.

This study set out to evaluate the effect of using sewage sludge-derived compost (SSC) or biochar (SSB) as a soil amendment on the phytoaccumulation of potentially toxic elements, PTE (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) and natural radionuclides (U-238 and Th-232) by Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. subsp. pekinensis (Lour.) Hanelt) in terra rossa and rendzina soils, which are the two common soil types in Croatia. The experiment consisted of a greenhouse pot trial using a three-factor design where soil type, sludge post-stabilisation procedure and amendment rate (12 and 120 mgP/L) were the main factors. At harvest, the concentrations of analytes in the substrate, leaves and roots were measured, from which the edible tissue uptake (ETU) and concentration ratios (CR) were determined. Also, the average daily dose (ADD) and hazard quotient (HQ) were determined to assess the health risk, as well as soil contamination factor (CF). The results showed that neither adding SSC nor SSB affected the soil loading at the rates applied, suggesting a low risk of soil contamination (CF ≤1). The ETU of Cd, Cu, and Zn were 0.0061, 1.23, and 0.91 mg/plant from compost-amended soil and 0.0046, 0.78 and 0.65 mg/plant for biochar-amended soil, respectively. This difference suggests that their ETU was higher in compost-amended soils than in soils treated with biochar. The CR data indicate that the bioavailability of Cu (CR of 5.30) is highest at an amendment rate of 12 mgP/L, while for Zn (CR of 0.69), the highest bioaccumulation was observed with an amendment rate of 120 mgP/L. Translocation of Cr, Ni, Pb and 238U to the leaves was limited. Overall, the HQ (

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) is a well-known aromatic plant, widely used as spice and remedy herb. It provides many beneficial effects and is used as diuretic and expectorant, as well as for various dyspeptic disorders. Beside essential oils, fennel seeds are abundant with various phenols, which are known as strong antioxidants and thereby contribute to human health. Among different extraction methods for phenols isolation, pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) represents a novel technique with numerous advantages over conventional extraction approaches. Its efficiency manifests through combination of high temperature and pressure, enabling extraction time shortening, as well as decreased solvent consumption, thus being environment-friendly technique. In order to achieve maximum extraction yield, it is of great importance to select optimal PLE conditions, e.g., extraction temperature and time. Additionally, solvent selection also affects on content of targeted compounds, where phenols amount depends on polarity of solvent. Hence, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of temperature (75 and 100 °C), static time (5 and 10 min) and cycle number (1, 2 and 3) on total phenols (TP) and total flavonoids (TF) content, as well as the antioxidant capacity (AC) in fennel seeds using three-step exhaustive PLE. Firstly, grinded dry fennel seeds were subjected to PLE using non-polar solvent (hexane) under the mentioned conditions in order to remove seeds' lipid fraction. Afterwards, defatted samples were extracted with polar solvents by the increasing polarity: aqueous acetone solution (30 %, v/v) followed by aqueous methanol solution (30 %, v/v). Obtained acetone (AE) and methanol (ME) extracts (n = 24) were analyzed for TP (Folin-Ciocalteu method), TF (aluminium chloride colorimetric assay) and AC [ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method]. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Tukey's HSD test (p ≤ 0.05) were applied for statistical analysis of collected data. Expectedly, AE were described with higher values of analyzed parameters (grand means: TP = 416.18 mg/100 g, TF = 41.87 mg/100 g, AC = 359.57 mg AAE/100 g) in comparison with ME (grand means: TP = 80.25 mg/100 g, TF = 16.41 mg/100 g, AC = 96.13 mg AAE/100 g. Furthermore, all examined influences significantly affected TP, TF and AC in all samples, except temperature on TP in ME. Thus, conditions of 100 °C/10 min/3 cycles showed the greatest yield of tested parameters in AE, while 100 °C/5 min/1 cycle were sufficient for maximum TP and AC levels in ME. Regarding TF in ME, slightly longer extraction time was required to achieve the highest efficiency (100 °C/10 min/1 cycle).

Organic amendments are often reported to improve soil properties, promote plant growth, and improve crop yield. This study aimed to investigate the effects of the biochar and compost produced from sewage sludge and olive pomace on soil hydraulic properties, water flow, and P transport (i.e., sorption) using numerical modeling (HYDRUS-1D) applied to two soil types (Terra Rosa and Rendzina). Evaporation and leaching experiments on soil cores and repacked soil columns were performed to determine the soil water retention, hydraulic conductivity, P leaching potential, and P sorption capacity of these mixtures. In the majority of treatments, the soil water retention showed a small increase compared to the control soil. A reliable fit with the modified van Genuchten model was found, which was also confirmed by water flow modeling of leaching experiments (R2 0.99). The results showed a high P sorption in all the treatments (Kd 21.24 to 53.68 cm3 g&ndash, 1), and a high model reliability when the inverse modeling procedure was used (R2 0.93 - 0.99). Overall, adding sewage sludge or olive pomace as compost or biochar improved the Terra Rosa and Rendzina water retention and did not increase the P mobility in these soils, proving to be a sustainable source of carbon and P-rich materials.

Soil is a non-renewable resource, so it should be taken care of it. High quality food with sufficient yield for a growing human population can be produced only if plant nutrients are added to the soil by fertilizers to increase soil fertility, but the fertilizers have to be used economically, with the aim of raising the nutrient content available in the soil in order to meet plants’ needs. The goal of the present investigation was to determine the effect of application of organic and mineral fertilizers as well as the effect of research environment on micronutrient content in red beet root. A field trial (2003–2005) was set up in a hilly part of Croatia according to the Latin square method, with four types of fertilization (control, 50 t stable manure*ha-1 , 500 and 1, 000 kg NPK 5-20-30*ha-1 ). After digestion of plant material with concentrated HNO3, iron, manganese, and zinc were determined by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The highest average red beet root micronutrient contents (270 mg Fe*kg-1 in dry matter, 96 mg Zn*kg-1 in dry matter, and 53 mg Mn*kg-1 in dry matter) were determined in the first research environment (Brašljevica in 2003) with low potassium soil content. There was a general decreasing trend in contents of the studied micronutrients (Fe, Mn and Zn) with NPK 5-20-30 fertilization (and by application of high doses of potassium), certainly due to antagonistic activity with potassium. It is suggested to fertilize with both 500 kg NPK 5-20-30*ha-1 and microelement fertilizers.

In modern agriculture, besides providing high and stable yields, it is imperative to produce products with a high nutritive quality. The goal of this study was to determine the effect of different fertilization regimes on the macro- and micronutrients in beetroot. A 3-year field trial was set up according to a Latin square method with four types of fertilization (unfertilized control, 50 t stable manure ha−1, and 500 and 1, 000 kg NPK 5-20-30 ha−1). The mineral content was determined as follows (mg 100 g−1 in fresh weight of beetroot): 14–29 P, 189–354 K, 18–34 Ca, 17–44 Mg, 0.67–1.83 Fe, 0.41–0.65 Mn and 0.28–0.44 Zn. The highest beetroot P content was determined for the treatment with stable manure, especially in a year with dry climatic conditions. The highest beetroot K content was determined for the treatment with 1, 000 kg NPK 5-20-30 ha−1, but at the same time for the same treatment, a general decreasing trend of micronutrient content was determined, due to the possible antagonistic effect of added potassium. For better mineral status of beetroot, application of combined mineral and organic fertilizers supplemented with additional foliar application of micronutrients can be suggested.

Two-year study was conducted on Italian Riesling cultivar with the aim to compare the effect of foliar sprays with different nitrogen forms on grapevine leaf N status, yield, and nitrogen compounds in grape juice. Treatments included no fertilization (control), soil NPK treatment, and three foliar treatments [amino acids, urea, ammonia (NH4+)/nitrate] applied four times during season, also treated with soil NPK. The application of 1% w/v urea significantly increased leaf total leaf N content in the second year of study. However, there were no effects on N compounds in grape juice, since changes in free amino nitrogen (FAN), NH4+, and consequently yeast assimilable nitrogen (YAN) were not consistent among the treatments and experimental years. Although increase of vine leaf N status was achieved by 1% w/v urea, additional modifying of application time (by moving it closer to veraison) is needed, with the aim to increase N compounds in grape juice as well.

Gradski parkovi imaju veliku ulogu u ekologiji ljudskog staništa jer pročišćuju zrak, proizvode kisik, pružaju skloništa i staništa za mnoge životinjske vrste, pogotovo ptice. Također, predstavljaju zelene oaze u kojima ljudi zbog stresnog i brzog ritma života traže mjesto za odmor, pružajući raznolike rekreacijske sadržaje za stanovnike gradova. Ovo istraživanje provedeno je s ciljem utvrđivanja količine makrohraniva (dušik, fosfor i kalij) u listovima trava kao i statusa hraniva u tlu na parkovnim javnim površinama, na temelju čega se preporučila optimalna prihrana travnjaka. Unutar rekreacijsko sportskih javnih objekata Grada Zagreba odabrani su Rekreacijsko športski centar (RŠC) Jarun i Park Bundek, koji uz Park Maksimir čine pluća Grada Zagreba. Uzorkovanje listova trava, kao i uzorkovanje tla provedeno je na oba travnjaka tri puta tijekom vegetacije. Na istraživanim lokalitetima najveći udio trava čini Lolium perenne L. sa 70% udjela, Festuca rubra Huds. sa 20%, a 10% udjela čine ostale biljne vrste. Utvrđeno je da su u oba travnjaka količine dušika uglavnom unutar granica koje sugeriraju literaturni navodi, za rod Lolium spp. L., dok su utvrđene nedostatne količine kalija i fosfora, posebice na RŠC Jarun. Prosječne vrijednosti hraniva u listovima trava kroz vegetaciju za RŠC Jarun iznose 3,14% N, 0,31% P i 2,78% K, a za Park Bundek 3,24% N, 0,41% P i 3,17% K, što ukazuje na općenito nešto bolju ishranjenost travnjaka u Parku Bundek u odnosu na Jarun. Slijedom navedenog, a kako bi održali barem postojeći status hraniva u tlu i biljci, predlažemo proljetnu gnojidbu sa 100 g m–2 NPK 5-20-30 ili 7-14-21 uz dodatak 20 g m–2 superfosfata. S obzirom na česte košnje tijekom vegetacije i na odnošenje dušika, potrebna je i prihrana dva puta tijekom vegetacije s po 10 g m–2 KAN-a., Urban parks play an important role in the ecology of human habitats because they filter the air, produce oxygen and provide shelters and habitats for many species, especially birds. They also represent green oases where people affected by stress or overwork may find a place to rest. Urban parks provide a variety of recreational activities for city residents. The aim of this study is to determine the content of macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) in grass leaves in the urban parks of public areas in order to recommend optimal lawn fertilization. In addition, nutritional grass leaves statuses as well as analyses were made to determine the amount of macronutrients (N, P, K). Within recreational sport public buildings of the City of Zagreb were selected Recreational Sports Centre (RSC) Jarun and Bundek Park facilities as large green areas that are along with Maksimir Park the “lungs” of the city. Grass leaves and soil sampling were carried out on both lawns three times during the growing season. The content of nitrogen in grass leaves of both lawns is within the limits suggested by current literature whilst there was an determined lack of potassium and especially phosphorus. The determined average value of nutrients in the grass leaves during the vegetation period for Jarun were 3.14% N, 0.31% P and 2.78% K, and for Bundek 3.24% N, 0.41% P and 3.17% K. In general, the results show a slightly higher nutrient value of lawn in the Bundek Park compared to Jarun. On the study sites the largest share of grasses belongs Lolium perenne L. with 70%, Festuca rubra Huds. with 20% and 10% belongs to other plant species. Chemical properties of investigated soils show that the soil on RSC Jarun is alkaline and moderately supplied with nitrogen, very poorly supplied with phosphorus and well supplied with potassium. The soil in the Park Bundek is neutral and moderately supplied with nitrogen, very poorly supplied with phosphorus and slightly supplied with potassium. Consequently, we suggest spring fertilization on both locations with 100 g m–2 NPK 5-20-30 or 7-14-21 with the addition of 20 g m–2 superphosphate because of low P status both in soil and grass leaves and two topdressings during the growing season with 10 g m–2 KAN because of mowing.

Organic fertilizers are an important contribution of organic matter that modify the physical, chemical and microbiological characteristics of the soil. The aim of investigation was to determine the effect of different organic fertilization on soil chemical properties on vineyard calcareous soil. Two-year fertilization trial was carried out in the Plešivica wine-growing region, in a 10-year old vineyard, cv. Sauvignon White grafted on Kobber 5BB rootstock, planted on soil with quite high pH for grapevine growing. The trial was performed according to randomize complete block design with 6 treatments (unfertilized, farmyard manure 20 t ha-1 and 40 t ha-1, peat 20 000 L ha-1 and 40 000 L ha-1, NPK 5-20-30 500 kg ha-1+200 kg UREA ha- 1) in 4 repetitions. Statistically significant differences in soil reaction (pH) in plowing layer (0-30 cm) were found among fertilization treatments in the second year of studies. In the plowing layer (0-30 cm) in both years of the study significant differences between the values of average total nitrogen content and available phosphorus as well were found, while there were no significant differences in the subplowing layer (30-60cm). Regarding to average value of fertilization treatment, statistically significant difference in the content of available potassium in plowing layer were found in the both investigated years, while in subplowing layer statistical differences were found in the first year of investigation only. Therefore, fertilization with different organic fertilizers significantly influenced the most of studied chemical properties of the soil, especially in plowing layer (0-30 cm).

Phosphorus (P) is a component of phospholipids, nucleic acids and molecules that store energy. It increases yield and water and nutrients use efficiency. Phosphorus turfgrass content is essential for root development, and, indirectly, nutrient uptake. The aim of this research was to determine soil and turfgrass blade phosphorus dynamics on two recreational (parks Bundek and Jarun) and two sports (Hippodrome and SP Mladost) turfgrasses in the city of Zagreb and determine adequate fertilization. Soil and plant material sampling was performed three times during the growing season 2012 in each of the four investigated locations. The results showed that, generally, soil phosphorus content was low or even turfgrass blade phosphorus content was on the lower end of optimal supply range. Soil phosphorus values ranged from 1.78 to 6.78 mg P2O5 100 g-1, while turfgrass blade phosphorus content ranged from 0.15 to 0.45 % P. Sampling time does not affect turfgrass blade phosphorus content. Due to the particularly low soil and turfgrass blade phosphorus status, special attention when designing the fertilization program should be given to phosphorus application with at least 10 g of P2O5 m-2 in the early spring, and, if necessary, with 1 g of P2O5 m-2 during the growing season.

Analiza biljnog materijala osnova je utvrđivanja statusa hraniva te planiranja kontrolirane ishrane vinove loze. Cilj ovog rada bio je utvrditi status Fe, Zn i Mn u listu cv. Malvazije istarske, kao izrazito značajnih mikroelemenata, kako za rast i razvoj same biljke, tako i za kvalitetu vina. Istraživanja su provedena u četiri vinograda podignuta na četiri tipa tla (terroira), podtipa vitisola: crvenici, smeđem tlu na laporu te na dvije rendzine na laporu s različitom količinom CaO. Za utvrđivanje statusa Fe, Zn i Mn uzeti su cijeli listovi (peteljka+plojka) dvaput kroz vegetaciju, u fenofazi cvatnje i šare tijekom 2013. i 2014. godine. Vrijednosti Fe u listu u fenofazi cvatnje kretale su se od 70 do 89 mg kg-1, a u šari 71 – 101 mg kg-1. Status Zn kretao se u rasponu 20 – 33 mg kg-1 u cvatnji te 17 – 42 mg kg-1 u šari. Vrijednosti Mn u cvatnji iznosile su 56 – 349 mg kg-1, a u šari 88 - 565 mg kg-1. Međutim, usporedivši dobivene vrijednosti s referentnim, sve vrijednosti Fe i Zn bile su na donjoj granici optimalnog, dok je opskrba Mn bila dostatna. Dobivene različite vrijednosti na pojedinoj lokaciji upućuju na potrebu prilagodbe i dizajniranja gnojidbe za svaku lokaciju., Analysis of plant material is the basis for determining nutrient status and planning controlled grapevine nutrition. The aim of this study was to determine the status of Fe, Zn and Mn in cv. Istrian Malvasia leaf as important microelements for both the growth and development of the plant, but also for wine quality. The experiment was set up in four vineyards (terroirs) on four soil types, subtypes vitisols: red soil, brown soil on marl, and the two rendzinas on marl with different amounts of CaO. To determine the status of Fe, Zn and Mn, whole leaves (petiole+blade) were taken twice through the vegetation, in the stage of bloom and veraison during 2013 and 2014. Determined Fe values ranged from 70 to 89 mg kg-1 in bloom stage, while from 71 to 101 mg kg-1 in veraison. Zn ranged from 20 to 33 mg kg-1 in bloom, and from 17 to 42 mg kg-1 in veraison. Determined Mn ranged in bloom from 56 to 349 mg kg-1, while in veraison from 88 to 565 mg kg- 1. However, in comparison to reference values, Fe and Zn values were within minimal for grapevine needs, while Mn values were sufficient. Different values suggest the need of a personally designed fertilization for every location.

Mineralni sastav povrća općenito predstavlja važan izvor minerala koji su uključeni u razne osnovne metaboličke procese u ljudskom tijelu. Ipak prilikom uzgoja povrća na alkalnim, karbonatnim tlima deficijencije P, Fe, Zn, Mn česta su pojava, zbog formiranja teško topivih spojeva i slabije dostupnosti navedenih minerala biljkama. S toga je cilj našeg istraživanja bio utvrditi utjecaj različitih gnojidbi na mineralni sastav i nutritivnu vrijednost radiča kao visoko vrijedne namirnice. Rezultati su pokazali da je primjena organskog gnojiva (s huminskom i fulvičnom kiselinom i dodatkom makro i mikoelementa) putem tla signifikantno povećala koncentraciju P, K i Mg u lišću radiča. Također, uočljiv je i relativni porast količine Fe pri primjeni navedenog organskog gnojiva putem tla u odnosu na ostale gnojidbene tretmane., Vegetable mineral content represents an important source of minerals that are involved in basic metabolic processes in human body. Nevertheless, growing vegetable on alkaline, calcareous soils may result with P, Zn, Mn and Fe plant deficiency since these elements are firmly bound in precipitates of low solubility and consequently their availability to plants is markedly decreased. Therefore, the aim of our experiment was to determine influence of different fertilization treatments on mineral and nutritional value of radicchio as valuable food. The results showed that soil application of organic fertilizer (with humic and fulvic acid + macro and microelements) significantly increased P, K and Mg radicchio leaf concentration. Furthermore, in comparison to the other treatments, relative increase of iron content within organic fertilizer soil application is noticeable.

Maslina se većinom uzgaja u manje pogodnim agroekološkim uvjetima, karakteriziranim između ostalog slabijom dostupnošću biljnih hraniva. Zbog navedenog, cilj ovog rada bio je utvrditi utjecaj primjene mješavine modificiranih sintetskih zeolita tipa A (ZA), u kojima su originalni Na+ioni zamijenjeni kationima Zn2+, Mn2+ i Fe2+ (Fe3+), i endomikoriznih gljiva (AMF) na mineralni sastav lista masline sorte Leccino uzgajane na alkalnom, karbonatnom tlu. Rezultati su pokazali pozitivno djelovanje Mn-ZA na količinu Mn u suhoj tvari lista masline, dok učinak primjene ostalih modificiranih zeolita (Zn-ZA i Fe-ZA) kao i arbuskularnih mikoriznih gljiva na mineralni sastav lista masline nije zabilježen., Olive growing is mainly associated with poor agroecologycal conditions, characterized mostly with lower nutrient availability. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to determine the influence of synthetic zeolite A mixture (ZA), in which the original Na+ ions were exchanged with Zn2+, Mn2+ and Fe2+ (Fe3+) ions from solutions, and endomycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on olive leaf mineral content of Leccino cultivar grown on alkaline, calcareous soil. Results have shown that zeolite fertilization significantly increased Mn content in olive leaf, while other modified zeolites application (Zn-ZA i Fe-ZA) as well as arbucular mycorrhize fungi application had no influence on olive leaf mineral content.

Maslinarstvo Republike Hrvatske u snažnom je usponu. Razlog su tome prirodne blagodati koje omogućuju proizvodnju ekstra djevičanskih maslinovih ulja visoke kakvoće. Površine pod kulturom masline rastu iz godine u godinu. Kako se većina plodova masline prerađuju u maslinovo ulje, porastom količine prerađenih plodova raste i količina dobivenih nusprodukata tijekom procesa ekstrakcije maslinovog ulja. Nusprodukti su u prvom redu komina i vegetabilna voda. U Hrvatskoj se godišnje prema gruboj procjeni proizvede oko 55,250,000 litara vegetabilne vode. U radu su na osnovi citata iz znanstvenih i stručnih radova opisane glavne tehnologije zbrinjavanja vegetabilne vode: biološke, kemijske, fizikalne, mikrobiološke, biotehnološke metode te metoda ekstrakcije korisnih spojeva iz vegetabilne vode i njeno direktno izlijevanje na poljoprivredne površine. Od opisanih metoda za uvjete u Hrvatskoj preporučene su: anaerobna razgradnja, neutralizacija pomoću kalcija, izlijevanje na poljoprivredne površine i ekstrakcija korisnih tvari., Olive growing is on the constant rise in the Republic of Croatia. Natural benedictions which enable the production of extra virgin olive oils of high quality are the reason for this. Surfaces under olive culture grow from year to year. As most of olive fruits are processed into olive oil, along with the increase in quantity of processed fruits grows the quantity of obtained by- products during the process of extraction of olive oil. Primary by- products are olive cake and vegetative water. It is roughly estimated that the annual production of vegetative water in Croatia is about 55.235.000 l. Based on quotations from scientific and professional papers, this paper describes the major technologies of vegetative water treatment. They are: biological, chemical, physical, microbiological, biotechnological methods, and the method of extraction of useful compounds from vegetative water and its direct pouring out on agricultural surfaces. Out of described methods, the following are recommended for Croatian conditions: anaerobic decomposition, neutralization by calcium, pouring out on agricultural surfaces and extraction of useful compounds.

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an important legume crop. In Croatia, many different common bean landraces are grown mostly on small farms and in kitchen gardens. The aim of this research was to determine and compare nutrient content of Croatian common bean landraces and to test the existence of the relationship between common bean nutrient content with origin of accessions. A total of 226 common bean accessions from all over Croatia were collected, grown in unreplicated field trial at the experimental field in Zagreb, harvested and analyzed for nutrient content. Results showed high nutrient content, but clear difference between Mesoamerican and Andean gene pool regards the nutrient profile of Croatian common bean landraces was not determined. Regardless of gene pool, the average nutrient content in dry weight of Croatian common bean landraces was in range: 3.13–3.92% N, 0.49–0.57% P, 1.38–1.66% K, 0.34–0.42% Ca, 0.17–0.2% Mg, 63.75–75.77 mg Fe∙kg-1, 13.55–19.94 mg Mn∙kg-1 and 24.98–29.32 mg Zn∙kg-1. Present research provides a solid basis for future breeding programs and improvement of common bean traits., Grah (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) važna je kultura iz porodice mahunarki. U Hrvatskoj, različiti tradicijski kultivari graha pretežito se uzgajaju na malim gospodarstvima i u povrtnjacima. Cilj ovog istraživanja bio je utvrditi i usporediti količinu hranivih tvari u hrvatskim tradicijskim kultivarima graha, te utvrditi postojanje povezanosti količine hranivih tvari i podrijetla primki. Ukupno je prikupljeno 226 primki graha, iz cijele Hrvatske, koje su uzgojene u poljskom pokusu bez ponavljanja na pokušalištu u Zagrebu. Nakon berbe izvršena je analiza na količinu hranivih tvari. Rezultati su pokazali značajnu količinu hranivih tvari, ali jasne razlike, temeljem određenih količina hraniva u hrvatskim tradicijskim kultivarima graha, nisu utvrđene između kultivara mezoameričkog i andskog porijekla. Neovisno o porijeklu kultivara, prosječna količina hranivih tvari u suhoj tvari hrvatskih tradicijskih kultivara graha bila je u sljedećim rasponima: 3,13–3,92% N, 0,49–0,57% P, 1,38–1,66% K, 0,34–0,42% Ca, 0,17–0,2% Mg, 63,75-75,77 mg Fe∙kg-1, 13,55–19,94 mg Mn∙kg-1 i 24,98–29,32 mg Zn∙kg-1. Provedeno istraživanje predstavlja dobar temelj za buduća istraživanja s ciljem oplemenjivanja i poboljšanja svojstava graha.