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Organic vegetable production is needed worldwide to minimize the use of inorganic fertilizers, protect the environment, and produce healthy food. Accordingly, in the present study, the effects of organic granules on the productivity, quality, and nutrient uptake level of tomatoes and the fertility and microbial population of the soil were determined. Briefly, organic NPK granules and organic N, P and K-rich sources were compared with synthetic NPK granules and synthetic fertilizers administered at 100 and 75% of the recommended fertilizer levels. Among the various treatments applied, treatment with 100% of the recommended NPK using the synthetic NPK granules (Urea, DAP and MOP) led to higher growth, yield attributes, and yield (fruit yield, - 24.21 t/ha and stover yield, -15.01 t/ha) of tomato. This treatment also enhanced the nutrient uptake by tomato. However, quality parameters, such as total soluble solids (6.64%), titrable acidity (0.62%), ascorbic acid content (14.31 mg/100 g), lycopene content (3.54 mg/100 g), reducing sugars (3.11%), non-reducing sugars (1.02%), total sugar (4.13%), and shelf life (15.76 days) of tomato were higher with 100% of the recommended NPK from organic NPK granules than from synthetic granules. This treatment also enhanced the available nutrients and microbial population in the soil. Notably, the same trend was observed for tomatoes fertilized with 75 % of the recommended NPK. The lowest values were obtained with the absolute control. Based on the results of this experiment, the application of 100% of the recommended NPK using organic NPK granules is the best approach to improve the quality of tomato fruits and to enhance the soil fertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: Increasing crop productivity is often proposed as a key goal for meeting the food security demands of a growing global population. However, achieving high crop yields alone without meeting end‐use quality requirements is counter to this objective and can lead to negative environmental and sustainability issues. High yielding feed wheat crops in the United Kingdom are a typical example of this. The historical context of UK agricultural industrialisation, developments in plant breeding and wheat end‐use processing are examined. We then outline how employing innovations in plant breeding methods offer the potential to redress the balance between wheat quantity and quality. Summary: Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) has historically been an important crop for many human civilisations. Today, variability in wheat supply and trade has a large influence on global economies and food security. The United Kingdom is an example of an industrialised country that achieves high wheat yields through intensive cropping systems and a favourable climate. However, only a minority of the wheat grain produced is of suitable end‐use quality for modern bread baking methods and most wheat produced is fed to livestock. A large agricultural land area and input use dedicated to producing grain for animal rather than human food has wide‐ranging negative impacts for environmental sustainability and domestic food production. Here we present an historical perspective of agricultural and economic changes that have resulted in UK production primarily focussing on wheat quantity over quality. Agricultural intensification, liberalisation of free trade in agricultural commodities, innovations in the milling and baking sector, developments in scientific understanding of genetics and plant breeding, and geopolitical changes have all played a role. We propose that wheat breeding plays a crucial role in influencing these issues and although wheat breeders in the United Kingdom have historically applied the most‐up‐to‐date scientific advances, recent advances in genomics tools and quantitative genetics present a unique opportunity for breeders to redress the balance between quantity and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study comprehensively investigated the synergistic effects and underlying mechanisms of optimized water and fertilizer management on the yield, quality, and lodging resistance of hybrid rice (Oryza sativa), through a two-year field experiment. Two hybrid rice varieties, Xinxiangliangyou 1751 (XXLY1751) and Yueliangyou Meixiang Xinzhan (YLYMXXZ), were subjected to three irrigation methods (W1: wet irrigation, W2: flooding irrigation, W3: shallow-wet-dry irrigation) and four nitrogen fertilizer treatments (F1 to F4 with application rates of 0, 180, 225, and 270 kg ha−1, respectively). Our results revealed that the W1F3 treatment significantly enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) accumulation, laying a robust foundation for high yield and quality. NSC accumulation not only supported rice growth but also directly influenced starch and protein synthesis, ensuring smooth grain filling and significantly improving yield and quality. Moreover, NSC strengthened stem fullness and thickness, converting them into structural carbohydrates such as cellulose and lignin, which substantially increased stem mechanical strength and lodging resistance. Statistical analysis demonstrated that water and fertilizer treatments had significant main and interactive effects on photosynthetic rate, dry matter accumulation, yield, quality parameters, NSC, cellulose, lignin, and stem bending resistance. This study reveals the intricate relationship between water and fertilizer management and NSC dynamics, providing valuable theoretical and practical insights for high-yield and high-quality cultivation of hybrid rice, significantly contributing to the sustainable development of modern agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backround: The utilization of high-quality water in agriculture is increasingly constrained by climate change, affecting availability, quality, and distribution due to altered precipitation patterns, increased evaporation, extreme weather events, and rising salinity levels. Salinity significantly challenges salt-sensitive vegetables like lettuce, particularly in a greenhouse. Hydroponics water quality ensures nutrient solution stability, enhances nutrient uptake, prevents contamination, regulates pH and electrical conductivity, and maintains system components. This study aimed to mitigate salt-induced damage in lettuce grown via the floating culture method under 50 mM NaCl salinity by applying biostimulants. Results: We examined lettuce's physiological, biochemical, and agronomical responses to salt stress after applying biostimulants such as amino acids, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), fulvic acid, and chitosan. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with a randomized complete block design, and each treatment was replicated four times. Biostimulant applications alleviated salt's detrimental effects on plant weight, height, leaf number, and leaf area. Yield increases under 50 mM NaCl were 75%, 51%, 31%, 34%, and 33% using vermicompost, PGPR, fulvic acid, amino acid, and chitosan, respectively. Biostimulants improved stomatal conductance (58–189%), chlorophyll content (4–10%), nutrient uptake (15–109%), and water status (9–107%). They also reduced MDA content by 26–42%. PGPR (1.0 ml L‒1), vermicompost (2 ml L‒1), and fulvic acid (40 mg L‒1) were particularly effective, enhancing growth, yield, phenol, and mineral content while reducing nitrate levels under saline conditions. Conclusions: Biostimulants activated antioxidative defense systems, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution for mitigating salt stress in hydroponic lettuce cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is widely used to maintain crop yields and the sustainability of agroecosystems due to its characteristics. However, its effect on vegetable yield and quality in southern acidic soils has not been fully elucidated. The effects of two kinds of biochar application rates (3 t ha−1 and 12 t ha−1) on the nutrient availability, nutrient absorption, yield, and fruit quality of sandy acid oxide soil in South China were studied in a 2-year field experiment using two varieties of wax gourd (Tiezhu No. 2 and Dadao). The results showed that optimized fertilization (OPT, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium were reduced by 20.0%, 20.6%, and 21.1%, respectively) did not reduce the yield of the different varieties of wax gourd compared to FP (farmer practice). On the basis of the OPT treatment, the application of biochar increased the yield of Tiezhu No. 2 and Dadao wax gourd by 16.0–27.3% and 7.7–13.3%, respectively. The increase in yield was attributed to the improvement in soil organic carbon content which increased by 4.5–19.7%, nutrient effectiveness (NO3−-N and Olsen-P content enhanced by 23.7–27.0% and 15.3–23.4% in Tiezhu No. 2), and nutrient uptake (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg accumulation increased significantly by 21.1%, 46.1%, 36.8%, 25.7%, and 31.9%, respectively) by the plant after the biochar application. Different types of biochar also have some differences in these three aspects. Specifically, under the same dosage, rice biochar has a more significant effect on increasing the yield of winter melon, and has a better effect on the improvement of soil physical and chemical properties, while sawdust biochar has a more significant effect on nutrient absorption. In addition, the commercial quality, namely hardness and glossiness, and the nutritional quality, namely soluble sugar, soluble protein, VC content, and sugar–acid ratio of wax gourd fruits, were significantly improved after the biochar application. In summary, biochar application on acidic soils in South China could achieve a win–win situation in terms of increasing soil nutrient effectiveness to improve vegetable yield and quality while reducing chemical fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nighttime warming decreased single rice production in southern China, while silicate supply increased the yield and stress resistance. It is still unclear regarding the impacts of silicate application on the growth, yield and quality in rice under nighttime warming. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the impacts of silicate application on the growth, yield and quality during rice growing period under nighttime warming. The warming was set at two levels, that is, ambient temperature (CK) and nighttime warming (NW). The open passive nighttime warming was used in this study, that is, rice canopy was covered with aluminium foil reflective film at night (19:00–6:00). Silicate fertiliser (steel slag) was applied at two levels, that is, Si0 (0 kg SiO2·hm−2) and Si1 (200 kg SiO2·hm−2). The results indicated that, compared with the control, the average nighttime temperature on rice canopy and at 5 cm soil layer increased by 0.51°C–0.59°C and 0.28°C–0.41°C during the rice growing period, respectively. Under nighttime warming, silicate supply increased the dry weight of shoot, total dry weight of the whole plant and yield by 64.1%, 55.3% and 7.1% at the filling‐maturity stage, respectively. Silicate application significantly reduced dry matter translocation rate with 15%–18%, but significantly increased the root‐shoot ratio with 0.39–0.41 in rice. Under nighttime warming, silicate supply significantly increased milled rice rate, head rice rate and total starch content by 2.3%, 2.5% and 41.8%, respectively. Nighttime warming reduced the yield by decreasing the number of effective panicle, seed setting rate and 1000‐grain weight, but increasing empty chaff grain. Silicate supply increased the yield by increasing the number of effective panicle, filled grains per panicle, seed setting rate and 1000‐grain weight, but reducing empty chaff grain. This study suggests that silicate supply can effectively alleviate the suppressive effects of nighttime warming on single rice growth, yield and quality in Southern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Organic farming is a comprehensive production management system that fosters and improves the health of agroecosystems, encompassing biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is a crucial crop in organic farming systems, standing out as one of the most highly demanded organic products on the market. Among all crops, with potatoes, there is a very large yield gap between organic and conventional systems, attributable mainly to its intensive nutrient demands. The present review, considering the most relevant scientific literature worldwide, discusses the contemporary state of knowledge on crop nutrition and soil fertility management in organic potato crop production, analyzing the effects of animal manures, green manures, organic amendments, and biostimulants on organic potato tuber yield and quality. Overall, the main findings show a particular combination is needed to effectively maintain good soil fertility, satisfy the nutritional needs of the crop, and overcome the difference in potato yield between organic and conventional farming methods while meeting consumer demand. This combination entails using an animal manure or leguminous green manure with an organic soil amendment, and even better with a biofertilizer, such as a mycorrhizae-fungus-based one. It also emerged that more targeted studies are needed to select appropriate cultivars for organic potato farming systems to optimize this environmentally friendly production method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Drainage & Irrigation Machinery Engineering / Paiguan Jixie Gongcheng Xuebao is the property of Editorial Department of Drainage & Irrigation Machinery Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Potatoes are one of the world's most important agricultural crops, with potential for making a major contribution to global food security. This study shows how a biostimulant derived from a plant extract can improve potato crop yield and global food supply. Successful potato production currently requires significant levels of inputs including fertiliser, pesticides and irrigation, however non-microbial plant biostimulants or mixtures of biostimulants with synergistic actions, have the capacity to reduce inputs and improve the sustainability of intensive agriculture. Methods: A complex biostimulant containing a number of flavonoids including protocatechuic acid, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, coumaroyl quinic acid and gentistic acid was tested against three potato varieties for its efficacy in improving plant growth characteristics and tuber production in controlled and field environments. Results: In containers, complex biostimulant treatment enhanced photosynthetic ability, with elevated levels of chlorophyll, higher specific leaf areas and significantly larger leaf assimilation areas. Treatment also significantly increased tuber yield by an average of 33% in tuber weight across three potato varieties and shifted tuber production toward larger sized tubers. The biostimulant derived from flavonoids was also assessed in 6 commercial potato crops and consistently increased total yield (average 5.2%) and marketable yield, representing an increase in margins of UK£700 per hectare across the 6 crops. Similar increases in yield were seen when comparing chitted and unchitted seed potatoes and both types of seed responded positively to biostimulant application. Biostimulant treatment had no significant effects on tuber specific gravity, dry matter percentage and starch content, except at one location where these quality characteristics were higher in the control plants. Conclusion: The flavonoid based complex biostimulant produced significant effects on potato yield and quality in both container experiments and in field trials indicating its potential for contributing to sustainable potato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 18 melon resources were used as the experimental materials, and the randomized block design was adopted. Agronomic characters such as phenology, leaf, vine, flower and yield of 18 muskmelon resources were investigated and analyzed. The diversity of agronomic characters was studied and cluster analysis was carried out. The results showed that the phenological variation coefficient ranged from 5. 24% to 15.43%, the variation coefficient of leaf agronomic characters ranged from 9.86% to 21.06%, the variation coefficient of vine agronomic characters ranged from 9.56% to17.47%, the variation coefficient of flower agronomic characters ranged from 13. 12% to 27. 17% and the yield variation coefficient ranged from 65.42% to 66.75% in these melon resources. The results of the cluster analysis showed that the 18 melon resources could be divided into five categories by phenological phase clustering, of which the first category resources had the longest female flowering period and the shortest growth period, the fifth category resources had the longest growth period. 18 melon resources could be divided into three categories by clustering the leaf and vine agronomic characters, of which the second category were robust and had strong branches. The flowering agronomic characters and yield clustering showed that the 18 melon resources could be divided into four categories, of which the second category was weak in fruit setting ability and the fourth type had high yield with an average fruit weight of 2.58 kg. Resources No. 3, No. 7 and No. 8 could be preferred as parent materials when new varieties of melon that were suitable for facility cultivation and early maturing were breeded. And when new varieties of melon that were suitable for facility cultivation, late maturing and high yield were breeded, No. 10 resources could be preferred as parent materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve and optimize the directional cultivation technology and clarify its production effectiveness, a field comparative experiment was conducted between the directional cultivation and traditional smash-ridging technology to explore the impacts of directional cultivation on the yield, quality, and taste of Dioscorea opposita. The experiment was repeated in three producing areas of Dioscorea opposita in Jiangsu Province. The results showed that the directional cultivation significantly increased the tuber biomass of individual plant and the content of total saponin in Dioscorea opposita tubers. The delicacy of the tuber taste decreased and the hardness increased under the directional cultivation conditions. Overall, the application of directional cultivation technology could improve the yield and functional quality of Dioscorea opposita tuber, and should be preferentially promoted in the areas with sticky and heavy soils, where the vertical planting and harvesting operations were hard to implement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effects of different concentrations of biogas slurry (BS) were evaluated relative to vegetable cultivation. Five concentration levels of BS were used as organic fertilizer to grow Chinese cabbages (CA) by drip irrigation to study the effect of BS on the yield and quality. Each level was replicated three times and BS was used seven times. Results showed that the average plant height, fresh weight, dry weight, and soluble sugars and protein contents of Chinese cabbage under the T1 (BS 25%) treatment were optimal. Among them, dry weight per plant (3.53g), soluble sugar content (0.41%), and soluble protein content (0.0039%) were 1.74 times, 1.41 times, and 1.14 times more than under the CK treatment, respectively. In addition, the application of biogas slurry improved the physical and chemical properties of soil. Soil total nitrogen (TN) and available phosphorus (AP) content increased after the use of biogas slurry, and the soil total nitrogen and available phosphorus content increased with the increase in the concentration of the applied biogas slurry. The available potassium (AK) content of soil fluctuated with the concentration of biogas slurry. In addition, biogas slurry can properly improve soil pH. In conclusion, BS 25% was the best for the growth of CA and its quality, which provided scientific basis for biogas slurry as fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lack of trace element iron has become a key factor restricting vegetable yield and quality improvement. To address the low production efficiency of water–fertilizer coupling in agricultural production, we used a combination of experimental research, theoretical analysis, and mathematical modeling to systematically determine the effects of magneto-electric water irrigation with iron application on spinach growth and physiology, its yield and quality, and soil water transport characteristics. Compared with conventional water irrigation, under magneto-electric water irrigation, the water volume and applied iron concentration average increased the total accumulation of nitrogen, carbon, and iron in the aboveground part of spinach by 3.71%, 10.16%, and 14.14%, respectively, and the aboveground part of spinach had the highest total accumulation of nitrogen and carbon when irrigation water was 3300 m3 ha−1 and iron fertilizer application at 0.15%. Additionally, magneto-electric water irrigation increased spinach aboveground fresh weight and soluble sugar and protein content by an average of 13.34, 18.26, and 11.61%, respectively. Based on a comprehensive quantitative evaluation and analysis of aboveground nutrient accumulation in spinach, aboveground fresh weight, water use efficiency, and soluble sugar and protein content, we determined the optimal irrigation water and iron fertilizer application for spinach growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of poor water and fertilizer retention in sandy soils can lead to physiological growth restriction and yield and quality decline in apples. Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) formula can improve the soil structure and increase the water- and fertilizer-holding capacity of the soil, and Biogenic Stimulant (BS) can improve the drought stress resistance of crops and promote the physiological growth of crops. Considering that CMC and BS may improve the physiological characteristics of sandy soil apples, in this study, CMC was coupled with BS in sandy apples, and the effects on the physiological characteristics, yield, and quality of apples were systematically investigated. The results showed that CMC and BS could increase leaf N, P, and K content, with the greatest increases seen in the Y2C2 treatment (9.28, 0.61, and 0.56 g kg−1, respectively) compared with the CK treatment. The SPAD values of leaves following the coupled CMC and BS treatment compared to the CK treatment were elevated in the range of 4.47–24.29% at the flowering and fruiting stage, 2.84–26.50% at fruit expansion stage, and 6.64–19.41% at maturation stage. In the light response data of different treatments, the maximum net photosynthetic rate occurred in the Y2C2 treatment, and the net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance were all the highest in the Y2C2 treatment during the fruit expansion stage, with the net photosynthetic rate being higher than that of the CK treatment by 5.09 µmol m−2 s−1. The combination treatments of CMC and BS increased apple yield by 10.69 to 27.62% as compared to the CK treatment, and also increased soluble reducing sugar, soluble solids, and VC and reduced the titratable acid content. There was no correlation between the SPAD value during fruit expansion (p > 0.05) and the other physiological indexes (p < 0.05). Through the established functional relationship between the application rate of CMC and BS and apple yield, the recommended BS application rate of 27 kg ha−1 and CMC application rate of 20.625 kg ha−1 could yield up to 43,357.8 kg ha−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the effects of different water-saving treatments on rice plant growth and select suitable water-saving irrigation strategies for aerobic rice varieties, we conducted relevant field experiments from June to October 2023 at Jiangsu Runguo Agricultural Development Co., Ltd., China, which is located in a north subtropical monsoon climate where the soil is alkaline sandy loam. Four water treatments were set up, including the control of local conventional irrigation (CK, without water stress), mild water-saving treatment (W1, 20% more water saved than CK), moderate water-saving treatment (W2, 30% more water saved than CK), and severe water-saving treatment (W3, 40% more water saved than CK). The experiment results showed that rice plant heights were inhibited and leaf chlorophyll contents increased under all water-saving treatments compared to CK. Among them, the MDA content in paddy leaves under the W1 treatment decreased, while the activities of SOD and POD were enhanced and the membrane lipid peroxidation capacity of rice was also enhanced. Meanwhile, the results showed that the rice yield and quality under the W1 treatment significantly improved. Based on those experiments, a comprehensive evaluation of rice plant height, chlorophyll content, grain yield, yield components, and rice quality was conducted using the TOPSIS entropy weight method. It was preliminarily concluded that the suitable irrigation scheme for south and central Jiangsu was 20% water-saving irrigation compared with CK. In summary, under the premise of maintaining the economic yield of rice cultivation, an appropriate water irrigation plan helped save water resources and promote rice growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] In order to provide a scientific basis for improving yield and quality of pear through nutrient optimization management in China, the current situation of farmers' conventional fertilization management and yield in pear producing area was clarified, and the effects of different nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P2O5) and potassium (K₂O) fertilization measures on the yield and quality were studied. [Methods] The data of 112 journal articles published from 1992 to 2022 on the effect of optimal fertilization on pear yield and quality were integrated and analyzed to study the relationship between pear yield and N, P₂O, and K₂O application rates under conventional and optimal fertilization, and targeted fertilization suggestions were put forward for the main pear producing areas based on the yield effects. [Results] From a national perspective, the average yield of pear was 31 thm and the average amounts of N, P2O5 and K₂O application rates were 453,235 and 320 kg.hm² under conventional fertilization, while the nutrient inputs were relatively high and there were large differences between the main production areas. Compared with conventional fertilization, optimizing N, P2O5 and K₂O fertilization increased fruit soluble sugar content by 5.5%-7.3%, fruit shape index by 1.5%- 1.6%, and vitamin C content by 3.0%-3.4%, and decreased total acid by 3.6%-7.3% and peel firmness by 1.4%-2.2%. Meanwhile, reducing N, P2O5 and K₂O to a certain extent was helpful to increase the yield and quality of pears. Based on this, the appropriate application intervals of N, P2O5 and K₂O could be proposed for each main production area: the optimal input in the western producing area were 292.9-390.5 kg-hm-2, 113.1-169.6 kg.hm² and 71.0-106.4 kg.hm¯², respectively; the optimal inputs in the Yangtze River Basin producing area were 289.0-385.3 kg.hm², 221.7-277.1 kg.hm² and 158.7-238.0 kg.hm², respectively; the best inputs in the Circum-Bohai Sea producing area were 228.1-342.2 kg.hm², 113.9-170.8 kg.hm² and 261.6- 348.8 kg.hm², respectively; the best inputs of the old Yellow River producing area were 258.7-388.1 kg.hm²,164.1-218.8 -2 kg.hm², and 330.1-440.1 kg.hm², respectively. [Conclusions] Optimized fertilization could synergistically improve the yield and fruit quality of pear, and the targeted fertilization recommendations based on this will also help to achieve efficient, green and sustainable development of the main pear producing areas in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agronomica Sinica is the property of Crop Science Society of China and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Reasonable application of nitrogen fertilizer can improve the yield and quality of tea. This study used Jin Xuan as the tested variety and applied nitrogen fertilizer at rates of 0 kg/ha (N0), 150 kg/ha (N150), 300 kg/ha (N300), and 450 kg/ha (N450) in the summer and autumn seasons to analyze the effects of nitrogen application on the quality components and gene expression of tea leaves. The results showed that the N150 treatment significantly increased total polyphenols (TP), total catechins (TC), and caffeine contents, with the most significant increase observed in the content of six monomers of catechins (EGCG, ECG, EGC, GCG, GC, and EC) in the summer. The N300 treatment significantly increased TP and AA contents in the autumn while decreasing TC content. Additionally, the N300 treatment significantly increased caffeine and theanine contents in the autumn. Notably, the N300 treatment significantly increased both summer and autumn tea yields. Multivariate statistical analysis showed that TPs, AAs, TCs, EGC, and caffeine were key factors affecting the quality of Jin Xuan. Furthermore, the N150 treatment upregulated the expression of the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) gene, which may increase the accumulation of catechins. In conclusion, it is recommended to apply 150 kg/ha of nitrogen fertilizer in the summer and 300 kg/ha of nitrogen fertilizer in the autumn. This recommendation provides a theoretical basis for improving the quality and yield of tea leaves in summer and autumn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Prataculturae Sinica is the property of Acta Prataculturae Sinica Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this study, the effects of soil conditioners on the growth and development of melons and the rhizosphere soil environment were explored. The optimal amount of added soil conditioner was screened to solve the practical production problems of high-quality and high-yield thin-skinned melon. The melon variety "Da Shetou" was used as the material. Under the conditions of conventional fertilization and cultivation technology management, different soil conditioners were set up for potted melons. The effects of Pastoral soil (CK), 95% Pastoral soil + 5% volcanic ash soil conditioner (KT1), 85% Pastoral soil + 15% volcanic ash soil conditioner (KT2), 75% Pastoral soil + 25% volcanic ash soil conditioner (KT3), 65% Pastoral soil + 35% volcanic ash soil conditioner (KT4), and 55% Pastoral soil + 45% volcanic ash soil conditioner (KT5) on melon yield, quality, and rhizosphere soil characteristics were investigated. The soil microbial community was analyzed using Illumina MiSeq technology. Compared to CK, KT1, KT3, KT4, and KT5, the KT2 treatment could improve the single fruit yield of melon, increasing it by 4.35%, 2.48%, 2.31%, 5.92%, and 2.92%. Meanwhile, the highest contents of soluble protein, soluble solid, and soluble sugar in the KT2 treatment were 1.89 mg·100 g−1, 16.35%, and 46.44 mg·g−1, which were significantly higher than those in the control treatment. The contents of organic matter, total nitrogen, alkali-soluble nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, ammonium nitrogen, available potassium, and available phosphorus in melon rhizosphere soil were the highest in the KT2 treatment. Through Alpha diversity analysis, it was found that the Chao1 index, Shannon index, and ACE index were significantly higher in the KT1 treatment than in the control, while, among all groups, the Simpson index and coverage were not significantly different. The dominant bacteria in the six treated samples were mainly Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Myxomycota, Firmicutes, Gemmatimonadota, Verrucomicrobia, and Planctomycetes, which accounted for 96.59~97.63% of the relative abundance of all bacterial groups. Through redundancy analysis (RDA), it was found that the organic matter, electrical conductivity, available phosphorus, and nitrate nitrogen of melon rhizosphere soil were the dominant factors of bacterial community change at the dominant genus level. In summary, 15% ash soil conditioner applied on melon was the selected treatment to provide a theoretical reference for the application of soil conditioner in facility cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Tea Science is the property of Journal of Tea Science Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis is the property of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Tomatoes, an essential crop in controlled environments, benefit significantly from the careful use of nitrogen fertilizers, which are crucial for improving both yield and nitrogen efficiency. Using a tomato pot experiment arranged in a facility greenhouse, five treatments were established as follows: a control excluding the application of nitrogen fertilizer (C), and applications of ammonium nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen with nitrogen mass ratios of 0:100 (A0N100), 25:75 (A25N75), 50:50 (A50N50), 75:25 (A75N25), and 100:0 (A100N0), to study the effects of different ratios of nitrogen mass on tomato yield, quality, nutrient accumulation, and nitrogen fertilizer utilization. The results showed that compared with C, the different ammonium–nitrate ratios significantly increased the yield, dry matter mass, N, P, and K accumulation, soluble solids, soluble sugars, and vitamin C content (Vc) of the tomatoes. Among all the treatments, A75N25 tomatoes had the highest dry matter accumulation, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium accumulation in fruits, soluble sugar, and soluble solids content. The differences in tomato yield and nitrogen fertilizer utilization between A75N25 and A100N0 were insignificant but their values were significantly higher than those of the other treatments. A75N25 had the highest nitrogen fertilizer utilization rate, 42.1% to 82.3% higher than C, A25N75, and A50N50. Hence, an ammonium-to-nitrate nitrogen mass ratio of 75:25 optimized tomato yield and quality in a controlled environment while minimizing nutrient loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic vegetable production is needed worldwide to minimize the use of inorganic fertilizers, protect the environment, and produce healthy food. Accordingly, in the present study, the effects of organic granules on the productivity, quality, and nutrient uptake level of tomatoes and the fertility and microbial population of the soil were determined. Briefly, organic NPK granules and organic N, P and K-rich sources were compared with synthetic NPK granules and synthetic fertilizers administered at 100 and 75% of the recommended fertilizer levels. Among the various treatments applied, treatment with 100% of the recommended NPK using the synthetic NPK granules (Urea, DAP and MOP) led to higher growth, yield attributes, and yield (fruit yield, – 24.21 t/ha and stover yield, -15.01 t/ha) of tomato. This treatment also enhanced the nutrient uptake by tomato. However, quality parameters, such as total soluble solids (6.64% ), titrable acidity (0.62% ), ascorbic acid content (14.31 mg/100 g), lycopene content (3.54 mg/100 g), reducing sugars (3.11%), non-reducing sugars (1.02%), total sugar (4.13% ), and shelf life (15.76 days ) of tomato were higher with 100% of the recommended NPK from organic NPK granules than from synthetic granules. This treatment also enhanced the available nutrients and microbial population in the soil. Notably, the same trend was observed for tomatoes fertilized with 75 % of the recommended NPK. The lowest values were obtained with the absolute control. Based on the results of this experiment, the application of 100% of the recommended NPK using organic NPK granules is the best approach to improve the quality of tomato fruits and to enhance the soil fertility.

Societal Impact Statement Increasing crop productivity is often proposed as a key goal for meeting the food security demands of a growing global population. However, achieving high crop yields alone without meeting end‐use quality requirements is counter to this objective and can lead to negative environmental and sustainability issues. High yielding feed wheat crops in the United Kingdom are a typical example of this. The historical context of UK agricultural industrialisation, developments in plant breeding and wheat end‐use processing are examined. We then outline how employing innovations in plant breeding methods offer the potential to redress the balance between wheat quantity and quality. Summary Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) has historically been an important crop for many human civilisations. Today, variability in wheat supply and trade has a large influence on global economies and food security. The United Kingdom is an example of an industrialised country that achieves high wheat yields through intensive cropping systems and a favourable climate. However, only a minority of the wheat grain produced is of suitable end‐use quality for modern bread baking methods and most wheat produced is fed to livestock. A large agricultural land area and input use dedicated to producing grain for animal rather than human food has wide‐ranging negative impacts for environmental sustainability and domestic food production. Here we present an historical perspective of agricultural and economic changes that have resulted in UK production primarily focussing on wheat quantity over quality. Agricultural intensification, liberalisation of free trade in agricultural commodities, innovations in the milling and baking sector, developments in scientific understanding of genetics and plant breeding, and geopolitical changes have all played a role. We propose that wheat breeding plays a crucial role in influencing these issues and although wheat breeders in the United Kingdom have historically applied the most‐up‐to‐date scientific advances, recent advances in genomics tools and quantitative genetics present a unique opportunity for breeders to redress the balance between quantity and quality.

Abstract Backround The utilization of high-quality water in agriculture is increasingly constrained by climate change, affecting availability, quality, and distribution due to altered precipitation patterns, increased evaporation, extreme weather events, and rising salinity levels. Salinity significantly challenges salt-sensitive vegetables like lettuce, particularly in a greenhouse. Hydroponics water quality ensures nutrient solution stability, enhances nutrient uptake, prevents contamination, regulates pH and electrical conductivity, and maintains system components. This study aimed to mitigate salt-induced damage in lettuce grown via the floating culture method under 50 mM NaCl salinity by applying biostimulants. Results We examined lettuce’s physiological, biochemical, and agronomical responses to salt stress after applying biostimulants such as amino acids, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), fulvic acid, and chitosan. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with a randomized complete block design, and each treatment was replicated four times. Biostimulant applications alleviated salt’s detrimental effects on plant weight, height, leaf number, and leaf area. Yield increases under 50 mM NaCl were 75%, 51%, 31%, 34%, and 33% using vermicompost, PGPR, fulvic acid, amino acid, and chitosan, respectively. Biostimulants improved stomatal conductance (58–189%), chlorophyll content (4–10%), nutrient uptake (15–109%), and water status (9–107%). They also reduced MDA content by 26–42%. PGPR (1.0 ml L‒1), vermicompost (2 ml L‒1), and fulvic acid (40 mg L‒1) were particularly effective, enhancing growth, yield, phenol, and mineral content while reducing nitrate levels under saline conditions. Conclusions Biostimulants activated antioxidative defense systems, offering a sustainable, cost-effective solution for mitigating salt stress in hydroponic lettuce cultivation.

To seek the optimal combination of water–air for drip irrigation processing tomatoes in Northern Xinjiang, China, field experiments consisted of four irrigation levels, and two types of gas-filling methods were proposed. Throughout the whole growth period, the water consumption by physical aeration and chemical aeration increased by 13.65% and 9.27%, respectively compared with the nonaerated treatment. Under the conditions of physical aeration, the processing tomato fruit yield and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) increased by 8.14% and 4.74%; while by chemical aeration, they increased by 7.91% and 4.61%, respectively. Physical aeration had the most prominent role in increasing the contents of organic acid, soluble solids, soluble sugar, lycopene, and VC in processing tomatoes. The presented indicators show that the effect of physical aeration was better than that of chemical aeration. Physical aeration in combination with different irrigation levels, the 4,950 m3·hm−2 irrigation level gave the highest yield of processing tomato, whereas the highest IWUE was obtained in the 4,500 m3·hm−2 irrigation treatment, and the quality parameters of processing tomatoes at the 4,500 m3·hm−2 irrigation level performed better than those at the 4,950 m3·hm−2 irrigation level. To take into account the requirements of processing tomatoes for maximum IWUE and fruit yield and quality, the entropy weight method was used to determine that the irrigation water volume of 4,500 m3·hm−2 under the conditions of physical aeration can be used as a suitable water and air combination pattern for processing tomatoes in drip irrigation in Northern Xinjiang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peach production in China uses large inputs of mineral fertilizers but lower inputs of organic fertilizers, resulting in decreased peach quality and increased environmental risks. This study investigated the effects of formula fertilizers (combined organic and inorganic fertilizers) on peach yield, quality, and carbon and nitrogen footprints using three peach cultivars in two consecutive years. Two types of formula fertilizers had positive effects on improving the peach yield (5.6–13.6%), single fruit weight (9.0–32.5%), transverse diameter (3.6–13%) and longitudinal diameter (5.4–21.6%). Also, these fertilizers increased soluble solids (7.2–36.6%) and vitamin C (7.1–78%). In addition, the carbon footprint of peach decreased by 37–49%. This study demonstrates the potential of formula fertilizers to achieve balance between peach quality and environmental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to explore the effects of different nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium ratios on the yield and nutritional quality of greenhouse tomatoes under a water and fertilizer integration model. Greenhouse tomatoes were used as the research object, and the “3414” fertilizer trial design was employed to assess tomato growth, yield, quality, and soil indicators across various treatment combinations. The goal was to determine the optimal fertilization scheme and recommend appropriate fertilizer quantities for tomato cultivation and production. The results revealed that different fertilizer ratios significantly affected both the quality and yield of tomatoes. Overall, the tomato yield tended to increase with higher fertilization amounts, with potassium exhibiting the most pronounced effect on yield increase, followed by phosphorus and nitrogen. The comprehensive analysis of principal components indicated that the N2P2K1 treatment yielded the highest nutritional quality and yield. Therefore, the best fertilization combination identified in this study consisted of nitrogen fertilizer at 197.28 kg hm−2, phosphorus fertilizer at 88.75 kg hm−2, and potassium fertilizer at 229.80 kg hm−2. These findings provided the scientific basis for optimizing fertilization practices in greenhouse tomato cultivation and production in the Jilin Province.

Abstract Uncaria rhynchophylla is an important traditional herbal medicine in China, and the yield and quality of Uncaria rhynchophylla can be improved by suitable soil conditioners because of changing the soil properties. In this paper, Uncaria rhynchophylla associated alkaloids and soil microbial communities were investigated. The field experiment was set up with the following control group: (M1, no soil conditioner) and different soil conditioner treatment groups (M2, biomass ash; M3, water retention agent; M4, biochar; M5, lime powder and M6, malic acid). The results showed that M2 significantly increased the fresh and dry weight and the contents of isorhynchophylline, corynoxeine, isocorynoxeine, and total alkaloids. Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi were major bacterial phyla. Correlation analysis showed that fresh and dry weight was significantly positively correlated with Acidobacteria, while alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, phosphatase activity, fresh and dry weight, corynoxeine, and isocorynoxeine were significantly negatively correlated with Chloroflexi. The application of soil conditioner M2 increased the abundance of Acidobacteria and decreased the abundance of Chloroflexi, which contributed to improving the soil nutrient content, yield, and quality of Uncaria rhynchophylla. In summary, biomass ash may be a better choice of soil conditioner in Uncaria rhynchophylla growing areas.

Water stress significantly affects on rice yield and quality. Eight Japonica varieties from the first and second accumulated temperature zones of Heilongjiang Province were used as materials and four moisture gradients (0, −10, −25 and −40 kPa) were conducted at the grain-filling stage to clarify the effect of water stress on the rice yield and quality in cold regions. The results showed that the rice yield was reduced due to the decrease in the seed setting rate. Rice chalkiness was significantly increased by drought stress, especially under −10 kPa. The protein content of most varieties was significantly reduced and taste quality was increased under −25 to −40 kPa. The effect on protein components increased with increasing drought stress. The gel consistency decreased and the average chain length of amylopectin was less affected by drought. With an increase in moisture deficit, the rapid viscosity analyzer characteristics and chain length distribution of amylopectin showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing or decreasing and then increasing. The response of starch to mild and severe drought varied. Our study provides a theoretical basis for the efficient utilization of water and high quality and yield of Japonica rice.

Enhancing saline water productivity in arid regions is essential for sustainable agriculture. Adding biochar can improve the quantity and quality of tomato yield under higher levels of salinity and lower levels of irrigation. The experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of biochar on enhancing tomato fruit quality and yield under salinity and drought stress. The experiment combines two treatments for irrigation water quality (0.9 and 2.3 dS m−1), four irrigation levels (40, 60, 80, and 100%) of crop evapotranspiration (ETc), and the addition of 5% of biochar to treated soil (BC5%) and untreated soil (BC0%). The results showed that the decrease in the water quality and irrigation levels negatively impacted the yield and properties of tomato fruit, while 5% of biochar application positively improved the yield. Adding biochar decreased the tomato yield by 29.33% and 42.51% under lower-saline-irrigation water than the control, negatively affecting the fruit's physical parameters and mineral content. In contrast, adding biochar and irrigating with saline water at 60% of ETc improved the firmness and quality characteristics of the fruit by 56.60%, 67.19, 99.75, and 73.57% for vitamin C (VC), total titratable acidity (TA), total soluble solids (TSS), and total sugars (TS), respectively, compared to the control, and also reduced the sodium content of the fruits under all irrigation levels compared to untreated plants by biochar. Generally, biochar with saline water under deficit irrigation with 80 and 60% of ETc could be an excellent strategy to enhance the qualitative characteristics of tomato fruits and save approximately 20–40% of the applied water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncaria rhynchophylla is an important traditional herbal medicine in China, and the yield and quality of Uncaria rhynchophylla can be improved by suitable soil conditioners because of changing the soil properties. In this paper, Uncaria rhynchophylla associated alkaloids and soil microbial communities were investigated. The field experiment was set up with the following control group: (M1, no soil conditioner) and different soil conditioner treatment groups (M2, biomass ash; M3, water retention agent; M4, biochar; M5, lime powder and M6, malic acid). The results showed that M2 significantly increased the fresh and dry weight and the contents of isorhynchophylline, corynoxeine, isocorynoxeine, and total alkaloids. Acidobacteria, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi were major bacterial phyla. Correlation analysis showed that fresh and dry weight was significantly positively correlated with Acidobacteria, while alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, phosphatase activity, fresh and dry weight, corynoxeine, and isocorynoxeine were significantly negatively correlated with Chloroflexi. The application of soil conditioner M2 increased the abundance of Acidobacteria and decreased the abundance of Chloroflexi, which contributed to improving the soil nutrient content, yield, and quality of Uncaria rhynchophylla. In summary, biomass ash may be a better choice of soil conditioner in Uncaria rhynchophylla growing areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] The paper was to explore the effects of different doses of water-retaining agent on the growth and development indicators, yield and quality of soybean plants subjected to drought stress. [Methods] The effects of drought stress (MDS) and drought stress with low (MDS-L), medium (MDS-M) and high doses (MDS-H) of the water-retaining agent on the growth and development indicators, root activity, MDA content, antioxidant enzyme activity, yield and quality of soybean were studied by field plot test, with the normal water supply serving as the control (CK). [Results] In response to drought stress, the plant height, stem diameter, and yield of soybean exhibited a notable decline. Additionally, the contents of protein, fat, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid in seeds demonstrated a significant reduction. Conversely, the root activity and antioxidant enzyme activity exhibited a noticeable decline, while the MDA content exhibited an increase. The application of varying doses of the water-retaining agent was found to significantly enhance soybean growth, stimulate root activity, and elevate antioxidant enzyme activity, while concurrently reducing MDA content. The observed effects were found to be dose-dependent, with the greatest effects observed at the highest dose. In comparison to MDS, the yields of soybean in the MDS-L, MDS-M, and MDS-H treatments exhibited a 18.38%, 25.58%, and 46.26% increase, respectively. Additionally, the content of protein, fat, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid in seeds demonstrated a notable enhancement. [Conclusions] The application of the water-retaining agent has been demonstrated to significantly promote the growth of soybean plants under conditions of drought strefs, resulting in an improvement in both the yield and the quality of the soybean crop. The recommended dosage of the water-retaining agent is 3.3 kg/(667 m². [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on the wheat response under late sowing (LS) and salinity stress (SS) are available, however, in rice-wheat and cotton-wheat cropping systems, wheat planting is often delayed resulting in co-occurrence of LS and SS in salt affected soils. This two-year field study was conducted to evaluate the influence of foliar application of plant growth regulators (PGRs) [thiourea (TU), salicylic acid (SA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); water and no application were taken as control] on the productivity, grain quality and economic returns of timely-sown (TS) and LS wheat under normal (NC) and natural saline conditions (SS; EC 11.27 dS m− 1). Delay in sowing and planting in naturally saline soils caused a significant decrease in plant growth, grain yield, grain quality and net economic returns during both years of study. Late planting and SS caused a significant reduction in grain yield reduction by 40.58% and 34.72% (LS) and 40.66% and 42.89% (SS) compared with respective controls during 2021 and 2022, respectively. However, the influence of co-occurrence of LS and SS was more devastating than the individual stress causing 62.17% and 60.18% reduction in grain yield than the respective control during 2021 and 2022, respectively. However, the application of all PGRs improved the grain yield, grain quality and economic turnover under SS and LS stress. The order of improvement in grain yield by the application of PGRs treatments was TU > SA > H2O2. In conclusion, the application of different plant growth regulators improved economic returns, grain yield and quality attributes of late-sown wheat under saline conditions. In this regard, TU application was the most effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To ensure nutritional security of rapidly increasing population, research interest has revitalized in determining the nutritional quality traits of staple food crops, especially wheat. Besides higher yield potential, research gaps exist regarding nutritional quality assessment of promising wheat genotypes grown under the Mediterranean climate. A field study was conducted to determine the relationship between yield components and quality characteristics of 22 bread wheat genotypes using the SPAD meter, GreenSeeker (NDVI), and CM-1000 chlorophyll meter at different growing stages (Stem elongation, Heading, Anthesis and Milk stage). The recorded findings revealed that G-41 genotype surpassed the rest of bread wheat genotypes by recording the maximum grain yield, whereas G-60 genotype exhibited the highest protein and wet gluten content. Among response variables, SPAD and NDVI values at the heading stage and CM-1000 values at the milk stage were found to be statistically insignificant. According to the correlation and biplot analysis, a significant positive correlation was found between the SPAD values measured for the stem elongation, anthesis and milk stage and yield and quality characteristics. Significant positive correlations were found between the NDVI values at the stem elongation, anthesis, and milk stages and the yield components, and between the CM-1000 value at the heading stage and the grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Ecology / Yingyong Shengtai Xuebao is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Ecology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

From economic and nutritional points of view, tomato is, historically, considered one of the most important crops. Without significant yield reduction, most commercial cultivars of tomato crops are sensitive to moderate levels of salinity. However, high levels of salt stress can negatively affect the yield and quality of tomato fruits. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the yield and fruit quality of three tomato cultivars (Forester, Ghandowra-F1, and Feisty-Red) cultivated hydroponically, under three different levels of nutrient solution salinity. Evaluation of tomato fruits was performed based on quantity (number and weight of fruits, and total fruit yield), physical quality (color and firmness), and chemical quality (refractometric index "Brix", pH, EC, K+, Na+, and NO3-). Experiments were conducted using three salinity levels of the nutrient solution with electrical conductivity values (dSm-1) of 2.5 (control), 6.0, and 9.5. Results showed that the studied tomato cultivars were significantly influenced by high salinity (9.5 dSm-1) in comparison to the low (2.5 dSm-1) and medium (6.0 dSm-1) levels of salinity. On average, the highest fruit weight per plant of 1944.84 g and total fruit yield of 4.42 kgm-2 were observed at the low salinity level; however, no significant differences were obtained in the two yield factors (single fruit weight and total fruit yield) for the low and medium salinity levels. On the other hand, a significant reduction in tomato yield (31%) was associated with the high salinity level compared to the yield at low and medium salinity levels. Results of physical quality parameters showed highly significant differences among all salinity levels. On average, the maximum value of color change (1.72) was associated with the medium salinity level, and the maximum value of firmness (9.61 Ncm-1) was recorded at the high salinity level. Salinity levels and tomato cultivars introduced significant differences in chemical quality parameters; however, no significant differences in these parameters were attributed to the low and medium salinity levels. The maximum value of pH was recorded for the combination of medium salinity and Forester cultivar. Moreover, the maximum values of Brix, EC, K+, Na+, and NO3- were recorded for the Ghandowra-F1 cultivar at the high salinity level. Unlike the Feisty-Red, the performance of the Forester and Ghandowra-F1 cultivars was found to be acceptable at the tested medium salinity level (6.0 dSm-1). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In developing countries like India, rapid urbanisation was under way and the diet habits of the people have been changing day to day. Under this transformation, a section of the population is focused on nutritional security where vegetables play a major role in daily diet. Among different vegetables coloured bell pepper which is commonly known as capsicum, has importance due to its nutritional quality and market demand. The quality and productivity of coloured capsicum can be improved by choosing the best performing hybrids and exogenous application of plant growth regulators. Considering the above, the present study was conducted from November to April of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the Protected Cultivation Unit of Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha under controlled environment conditions. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design consisting of two hybrids, namely, Orobelle (yellow colored) and Bomby (red colored); and eight treatments of growth regulators which were GA3 @ 25 ppm, GA3 @ 50 ppm, GA3 @ 75 ppm, GA3 @ 100 ppm, NAA @ 20 ppm, NAA @ 40 ppm, NAA @ 60 ppm and NAA @ 80 ppm. A total of 16 treatment combinations were worked out in the experiment which were replicated thrice. The results of the experiment revealed that there was no significant variation among the hybrids cultivated with respect to yield attributes, yield, quality parameters and growth attributes excluding plant height and number of leaves per plant at 60 DAS and 90 DAS. However, there was a significant impact of plant growth regulators on growth attributes, yield attributes, yield and quality parameters. The application of NAA @ 80 ppm resulted in early flowering (43.8 days after planting). Moreover, the maximum number of flowers per plant (32.5 flowers/plant), flower to fruit ratio (52.9), fruits per plant (19.5) and weight of the fruit (133.6 g) recorded in GA3 @ 100 ppm application. There was a significant interaction effect among treatment combinations in fruit yield where the highest value was recorded in Bomby hybrid with GA3 @ 100 PPM application. From the study it may be concluded that cultivation of both the hybrids can be considered as per the fruit colour and market demand along with the application of GA3 @ 100 ppm under controlled environment conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis is the property of Acta Agriculturae Zhejiangensis Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are an essential oilseed crop known for their unique developmental process, characterized by aerial flowering followed by subterranean fruit development. This crop is polyploid, consisting of A and B subgenomes, which complicates its genetic analysis. The advent and progression of omics technologies--encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics, and metabolomics--have significantly advanced our understanding of peanut biology, particularly in the context of seed development and the regulation of seed-associated traits. Following the completion of the peanut reference genome, research has utilized omics data to elucidate the quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with seed weight, oil content, protein content, fatty acid composition, sucrose content, and seed coat color as well as the regulatory mechanisms governing seed development. This review aims to summarize the advancements in peanut seed development regulation and trait analysis based on reference genome-guided omics studies. It provides an overview of the significant progress made in understanding the molecular basis of peanut seed development, offering insights into the complex genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that influence key agronomic traits. These studies highlight the significance of omics data in profoundly elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of peanut seed development. Furthermore, they lay a foundational basis for future research on trait-related functional genes, highlighting the pivotal role of comprehensive genomic analysis in advancing our understanding of plant biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity and the overuse of chemical fertilizers present significant challenges to modern agriculture, critically affecting crop photosynthesis, yield, quality, and productivity sustainability. This research assesses the impact of organic fertilizer on the photosynthetic attributes, yield, and quality of pakchoi under varying irrigation water conditions, including fresh water and brackish water. Findings reveal that the modified rectangular hyperbolic model most accurately captures the photosynthetic reaction to organic fertilization, outperforming other evaluated models. The maximum net photosynthesis rate (Pnmax), yield, soluble sugar (SS), and soluble protein content (SP) all exhibited a downward-opening quadratic parabolic trend with increasing amounts of organic fertilizer application. Specifically, under fresh-water irrigation, the optimal Pnmax, yield, SS, and SP were obtained at organic fertilizer rates of 65.77, 74.63, 45.33, and 40.79 kg/ha, respectively, achieving peak values of 20.71 µmol/(m2·s), 50,832 kg/ha, 35.63 g/kg, and 6.25 g/kg. This investigation provides a foundational basis for further research into the intricate relationship between water salinity stress and nutrient management, with the goal of crafting more sophisticated and sustainable farming methodologies. The insights gained could significantly influence organic fertilizer practices, promoting not only higher yields but also superior quality in agricultural outputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dika 653 was selected as experimental material to study the effects of foliar fertilizer containing different biostimulants such as Mairunon which containing organic matter, Maifuli which containing amino acid, Overflow which containing humic acid, Haoxiufeng which containing seaweed extract and humic acid on the photosynthetic characteristics, yield and quality were studied. The results showed that the four kinds of foliar fertilizers significantly increased the net-photosynthetic rate of leaves, and Haoxiufeng performed best. Compared with the control, the number of grains per row of Mairunang and Maifuli increased significantly, and the yield increased 11. 6% and 8. 8% respectively;The number of grains per row and 100-grain weight of Haoxiufeng treatment increased significantly, and the yield increased by 13. 4%. The four kinds of foliar fertilizers had no significant impact on the bulk density and energy value. Mairunang, Maifuli and Overflow reduced the content of DON, while Haoxiufeng reduced the content of DON and ZEN. Based on the above results, the two biostimulants contained in Haoxiufeng which containing two kinds of biostimulants played a synergistic role in improvement of photosynthetic index, yield and quality of maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. is a perennial herb in the Compositae family, often employed in traditional Chinese medicine due to its medicinal value. The planting of C. morifolium faces the challenges of continuous cropping, and intercropping is able to somewhat overcome the obstacles of continuous cropping. Methods: In our study, we designed two different C. morifolium-maize intercropping patterns, including C. morifolium-maize narrow-wide row planting (IS) and C. morifolium-maize middle row planting (IM). Compared with monoculture, the agronomic traits, yield, active ingredients, soil physicochemical properties, soil enzyme activities, and rhizosphere soil microbial communities of C. morifolium and maize were measured under the two C. morifolium-maize intercropping patterns. Results: The findings indicated that (1) Intercropping elevated the agronomic traits, yield, and active ingredients of C. morifolium, especially in C. morifoliummaize narrow-wide row planting pattern, which indicating that interspecific distance played an important role in intercropping system; (2) Intercropping enhanced soil physicochemical properties and enzyme activities of C. morifolium and maize; (3) Intercropping altered rhizosphere soil microbial communities of C. morifolium and maize, making microbial interrelationships more complex. (4) Intercropping could recruit a large number of beneficial microorganisms enrich in the soil, including Bacillus, Sphingomonas, Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia, Chaetomium, and Ceratorhiza, which may increase the content of AN, NN, AvK, ExCa, AvCu, AvZn and other nutrients in soil and promoted the growth and quality of C. morifolium. Discussion: In summary, intercropping with maize could promote the accumulation of beneficial microorganisms in the soil, thus improving the overall growing environment, and finally realizing the growth and improvement of C. morifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technological and climatic factors significantly influence the expression of quality and quantity properties of spring wheat. This study aims to quantify the effects of weather conditions and fertilizer systems on spring wheat yield, quality (protein content), and physiological indicators (leaf vapor pressure deficit, evapotranspiration, surface temperature of the flag leaf) and to identify a suitable spring wheat genotype for the Transylvanian Plain. The experimental factors were: Y represents the year (Y1, 2019; Y2, 2020); F represents the fertilizer variant (F1, a single rate of fertilization: 36 kg ha−1 of nitrogen; F2, two rates of fertilization: 36 kg ha−1 of nitrogen + 72 kg ha−1 of nitrogen; F3, two rates of fertilization: 36 kg ha−1 of nitrogen + 105 kg ha−1 of nitrogen); and S represents the genotype (S1, Pădureni; S2, Granny; S3, Triso; S4, Taisa; S5, Ciprian; and S6, Lennox). This multifactorial experiment with three factors was conducted on Phaeozem soil. Regardless of weather conditions, fertilization with N100–110 at the head swollen sheath (stage 10, Feeks Growth Scale for Wheat) is deemed the most suitable variant because it yields an average grain yield of 5000 kg ha−1 of good quality (13.84% protein) with a considerable flag leaf area (29 cm2) where physiological processes can optimally support the well-being of the spring wheat plants. Beyond this level of fertilization, the average grain yield tends to plateau, but the protein content considerably increases by 13–23%, depending on the genotype. High yields were achieved in the Lennox and Triso genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-hail nets are the best way to mitigate the effects of hailstorms in the orchards. Apple trees covered with nets may exhibit a variety of vegetative and reproductive responses, inclusive of changes in tree vigour, cropping, sugar contents, and fruit colour. The present study was conducted to assess the effect of timing of installation and colour of anti-hail net on cropping and fruit quality in high-density apple orchard for two consecutive seasons (2021 and 2022). White and blue colour nets of size (9 m × 30 m) 80 GSM (square mesh with non-sliding threaded, leno weave, and < 30% shading factor) were installed at three different time intervals (15 days before estimated full bloom, at full bloom, and 15 days after full bloom) on apple cultivar 'Jeromine'. The installation at different time and colour of anti-hail nets significantly exhibit variability in cropping, fruit quality, and bio-chemical metrics. The significant highest cropping (fruit yield, productivity, and yield efficiency) and fruit biochemical parameters (total soluble solids) were recorded in T3C2 (15 days after full bloom + white colour anti-hail net) followed by T2C2 (installed at full bloom + white colour anti-hail net). Hence, white colour anti-hail nets installed 15 days after full bloom increased fruit production and improved quality in comparison to blue colour anti-hail net in apple under high-density plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]