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The study aimed to evaluate for the first time the degree of contamination of soil and crops with major and trace elements (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, F, Na, Mg, Si, P, Cl, Fe, Al) in agricultural lands situated in the Lower Danube Basin, Galati and Braila counties (SE Romania), impacted by the steel industry. Soil samples, as well as leaves and seeds of wheat, corn, and sunflower, were collected from two depths in 11 different sites. Along with elemental and mineralogical analyses, performed by HR-CS AAS, PIGE, SEM-EDX, and ATR-FTIR, the soil pH, texture, organic matter, electric conductivity, and CaCO3 content were investigated. The results showed that the levels of Cr (83.27–383.10 mg kg−1), Cu (17.11–68.15 mg kg−1), Ni (30.16–55.66 mg kg−1), and F (319–544 mg kg−1) in soil exceeded the Romanian regulations for sensitive use of the land. Igeo, EF, PI, and PERI pollution indices indicate that the soil is moderate to highly contaminated with Cr, Ni, and Cu, while the CSI and mERMQ indices suggested a relatively low risk for metal contamination. The elemental concentrations in plant tissues and bioaccumulation factors (BFs) provide valuable insights into the soil–plant relationship, health risks, and the selectivity of plant compartments for different elements. Thus, the results revealed that the wheat plants tended to exclude the bioaccumulation of particular elements in their tissues, while exhibiting a different bioaccumulation pattern for Zn and Cu. In the case of corn, most BFs were below one, indicating a limited phytoaccumulation capacity. However, exceptions were observed for Cd, Zn, and Cu with the sunflower BFs indicating higher bioconcentration of these elements in leaves and seeds compared to other elements. Chromium (Cr) contributes to non-carcinogenic dermal contact and ingestion hazards, children being more susceptible to the adverse effects of this contaminant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereals are essential for human nutrition. Unfortunately, the worldwide demographic evolution (continually increasing) makes it difficult to maintain the security of this food source. To overcome this situation, increasing the yield of these species is necessary. The aim of the present research is to make a comparative economic analysis between different varieties of winter barley, winter wheat and triticale varieties in the period 2018-2023 at Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS) Secuieni, Neamt County, Romania. The economic indicators taken into consideration were: yield, production value, production cost, total expenditures, gross and net profit. The data were processed and statistically interpreted based on variance analysis, coefficient of variation, using Microsoft Excel and ANOVA 2013 programs. The results regarding yield showed that on the first place is winter wheat with an average yield of 7,413 kg · ha-1, the second place is winter barley with an average yield of 6,340 kg · ha-1, and the last place is triticales, with an average yield of 6,145 kg · ha-1. From an economic point of view, winter wheat is on first place, with a net profit of approximately double compared to the other two cereals. The net profit was 3,109 lei · ha-1 for winter wheat, 1,766 lei · ha-1 for winter barley, and 1,635 lei · ha-1 for triticale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins and heavy metals are contaminants that affect harvests, animal and human health and produce economic losses. The article aims to present the occurrence of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol and heavy metals (lead, copper, arsenic, chromium, nickel, zinc, manganese, and cadmium) contamination in common wheat in Romania in the extremely dry year 2015. The samples taken from localities characterized by deoxynivalenol contamination in 2012 - 2014, were analyzed through enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) methods and the gained data were evaluated by SPSS. Wheat exceeded the maximum limits for deoxynivalenol and lead in the northwestern, western and central regions (46-48 °N, 21-25 °E; acidic soils; humid to subhumid climate); the heavy metals concentrations had the order Mn > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr > Pb > As > Cd. Deoxynivalenol was only correlated with copper, but there were significant and very significant correlations between heavy metals with toxic and carcinogenic potential (lead, arsenic, chromium, nickel, and copper). Contamination with deoxynivalenol and heavy metals in common wheat was low in the extremely dry year 2015, but it was high in soils, air, waters and plants in the extremely rainy years as: 2010, 2013, 2014 and 2016. Gained data are useful because they showed that extreme weather events and climate change affect heavy metal pollution in the environment and also Fusarium spp. and deoxynivalenol contamination in cereals, therefore agro-food safety and security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of cereals with fungi Aspergillus spp. and mycotoxins aflatoxins causes losses in the agrofood chain and cancers in animals and humans. This article assesses the occurrence of total aflatoxin contamination in common wheat in Romania during the 2015 - 2016 period under the influence of environmental factors and extreme weather events. Wheat samples (N = 272) taken from localities characterized by deoxynivalenol contamination in 2012 - 2014, were analyzed for aflatoxins using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method and gained resuts were statistically evaluated by SPSS. Total aflatoxin contamination in common wheat was very low (max. 1.10 µg/kg) in June - August of the 2015 extremely dry year, but high values were recorded in Covasna, Harghita, and Vâlcea counties (4.00 µg/kg; 5.42 µg/kg; 4.58 µg/kg; acidic soils) in May - June 2016, an extremely rainy year. Extremely hot and dry weather conditions in July - August 2015 reduced the effects of environmental factors to non-significant correlations with total aflatoxins. The effects of the extreme drought were also manifested in 2016, but the temperature and precipitation in July - August were significantly correlated with aflatoxin contamination. The results show the occurrence of total aflatoxin contamination in common wheat grown in regions characterized by Fusarium spp. and deoxynivalenol contamination in the year following a dry year. The increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events in the last two decades and the predicted climate changes require the analysis of aflatoxins in wheat and other cereals grown in agricultural regions with low aridity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flour is one of the most widely used products typically derived from wheat, corn, and rye and is classified based on its nutrition content. The present study aimed to identify and classify the different types of flour (wheat, rye, maize) commercially available in Romania. The market research covered eight types of flour available on the Romanian market: 1. Wheat Flour 000 (N-19), 2. Wheat Flour 550 (N-11), 3. Wheat Flour 650 (N-13), 4. Whole-Wheat Flour (N-15), 5. Durum Wheat Flour (N-8), 6. Spelt Wheat Flour (N-8), 7. Rye Flour (N-15), and 8. Maize Flour (N-23). The classification was carried out by analysing the most important parameters: energy, protein, fat, saturated fatty acid, carbohydrate, sugar, and dietary fibre content, using different statistical methods: descriptive statistics, box plot, hierarchical cluster, and surface radar analysis. The results revealed that white wheat flour represented more than 50% of the analysed samples, and significant differences were found between the tested types of flour. In addition, white wheat flour is characterized with lower dietary fibre, fat and protein content, but it has higher energy content and carbohydrate content. In contrast, whole meal, durum, spelt, and rye flours are characterized by lower carbohydrate and higher fibre and fat content. The hierarchical cluster analysis showed that, on the basis of nutritional similarities and differences, the flours studied in Romania can be grouped into three distinct clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking into account the rising demand for organic wheat and the need to guarantee both high productivity and quality of the crops, the choice of cultivar plays a crucial role. These intended objectives may solely be attained by employing the most appropriate cultivars for organic agriculture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of 15 wheat cultivars for cultivation in organic farming according to three important parameters for organic farmers and processors, namely grain yield, test weight and protein content. The field experiment took place over two consecutive growing seasons, in the center of the Oltenia region (southwest of Romania) under organic farming conditions. The results showed significant effects of the climatic conditions in the year of study, but also of the cultivar on all studied parameters. The effect of genotype-environment interactions was significant only for test weight and protein content. On average, over the two years of study, the grain yield was 3899 kg ha-1, the test weight was 70.8 kg hl-1, and the protein content was 10.1%. The recently released cultivar 'Voinic' obtained the maximum grain yield (4755 kg ha-1) and also a maximum test weight and protein content (73.9 kg hl-1, respectively 10.7%). In conclusion, it follows that by using cultivars suitable for organic farming, good and quality yields can be obtained that can be a suitable raw material for baking industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the conditions of southern Romania, on a chernozem type soil, without irrigation, for 3 years, 2 isogenic lines of wheat, M1 and M2, with different biological yield potential were analyzed. The analyzed factors were: Nitrogen fertilization doses, Phosphorus fertilization doses and sowing density. Concerning the influence of nitrogen on yield, all calculated average values differ significantly from each other, both for M1 and for M2, the highest average values being recorded at a dose of N150 kg a.s./ha. Regarding the influence of phosphorus on seed yield, both for M1 and M2, no significant differences are recorded between the two averages values calculated for the analyzed graduations. Related to the influence of density on seed yield, the average value recorded at 700 g.s./m², records significant differences compared to the value averages recorded at the density of 500 g.s./m², between the value averages recorded on 600 g.s./m² and the other value averages, no statistically differences being recorded. Concerning the trend models between Nitrogen doses and wheat yield, all the models are mathematically correct, what differs is the regression coefficient. The regression coefficient is higher under phosphorus fertilization and on high sowing density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the paper was to analyze cereal production in Dolj County and in Romania in the period 2017-2021 in order to identify the main trends, based on the statistical data provided by National Institute of Statistics and processing them by comparison method and time and structural indices. Dolj County has a total area of 741,401 ha (7th place at national level - 3.11% of the total), an agricultural area of 585,135 ha (2nd place at national level - 32.57%) and an arable area of 488,560 ha (2nd place at national level - 39.03%). The county is characterized by favorable agro-productive conditions for cereal cultivation, taking into account climatic factors and soils specific to the county (for example, sandy soils for rye cultivation). The county cultivated (on average) 331,450.80 ha with cereals, predominantly wheat and grain maize (60.5, and 26.53% of the total), obtained a total production of 1,567,667 t (predominantly wheat and maize with 54.89 and 33.96% of the total), and the average yield per hectare reached 4,728 kg. It can be said that Dolj County can decisively influence, in certain situations, the cereals market in Romania and the South-West Oltenia Region, but it must be aimed at improving the performance of this side of vegetal activity, in order to capitalize on the existing potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to present an updated evolution of vegetable agricultural production in Vrancea county, during the period 2017-2021, with focus on the county's contributions in total at the country level, using the National Institute of Statistics (NIS) as principal data source. In order to meet the objectives, the methodology of research was based on indicators frequently used in papers about vegetable agricultural production, represented as values and/or percentage units. In 2021, Vrancea county detained 108 civil employment population (with 17% less than in 2017), through 22 employers in agriculture (52% less than in 2017). Among the main findings from the analyse are the following: the areas cultivated with corn grains, oat, sunflower, vegetables (all), dried onion, tomatoes, total fruits trees, plum, apples, pears, cherries and burgundy decreased among the county between 2017 and 2021 period and the areas cultivated with wheat, barley and vineyards in bearing increased. About the production, at the county level, the production of wheat, oat, barley, total fruit trees, plum, apple, pears, cherries, burgundy and grapes increased and the productions like: corn grains, sunflowers, vegetables (all), dried onion, tomatoes, decreased in the analysed period (2017-2021). From the conclusions of this paper, we found out that besides the good image in terms of wine fields, is observed that total fruit production increased by 50%, which can mean a new growth area of the county, regarding of vegetable agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the spatial variation of the photosynthetic pigments along the length of the wheat leaf. The biological material was represented by the 'Dacic' wheat cultivar, cultivated under the conditions of SCDA Lovrin, Romania. The fully developed leaf, third leaf, stage BBCH 30, was considered for analysis. 50 leaves were taken at random, from which 10 leaves with a length of 30 cm were selected. The photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll - Chl, carotenoids - Car) were determined in 29 positions along the length of the leaf, at intervals of 1 cm (p1 to p29). Based on the determined values, the Chl/Car and Car/Chl ratios were calculated. The chlorophyll content (Chl) varied between 36.70 - 67.80±0.51 units, the carotenoid content (Car) varied between 4.90 - 17.10±0.17 units. In the case of the calculated ratios, the Chl/Car ratio values were between 3.95 - 7.65±0.04, and the Car/Chl ratio values were between 0.13 - 0.25±0.001. The analysis of the data was done on the basis of a proposed logical scheme. The distribution of Chl and Car along the length of the leaf was described by polynomial equations of degree 4, under statistical safety conditions (R2=0.963 for Chl; R2=0.928 for Car, p<0.001). The cluster analysis facilitated the grouping of the determination positions (p1 to p29) based on similarity in relation to Chl values (Coph.corr.=0.738). Starting from the equations that described Chl and Car variation in relation to the position on the leaf (p1 to p29) were found the areas on the leaf where pigment content values were determined at the level of the calculated average values (Chl_Avg, Car_Avg; p8-p9, p24-p25), and the area with the maximum level of pigment content (p16 - p18). These areas were also identified in the dendrogram resulted from the cluster analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the efficacy of the herbicide Resital Duo (SE) against the weed Polygonum aviculare, from a winter wheat crop. The observations were made in a wheat crop located in the western part of Romania, respectively in the Western Plain. Research has been conducted during the agricultural years 2022-2023, and included determinations on the effects of vegetation treatments with the herbicide product Resital Duo (SE) (452.42 g/l 2.4-D 2-Ethylhexyl Ester (EHE) + 6.25 g/l Florasulam.), applied in 4 variants and 3 different doses (untrated, 0.2 l / ha, 0.4 l / ha, 0.6 l / ha. Therefore, a monofactorial experience was set up in the field, placed according to the method of randomized blocks, in four repetitions. 15 days after application of Resital Duo (SE) (452.42 g / l 2.4- D 2-Ethylhexyl Ester EHE) + 6.25 g / l Florasulam), the most effective treatments in experience were variant 3 (0.4 l / ha) and variant 4 (0.6 l / ha), with an efficacy of 57.5%, respectively 77.5%. After 30 days of the application of the Resital Duo (SE) product, the most effective treatments in our experience were both variant 3 (0.4 l/ha) and variant 4 (0.6 l/ha), which accumulated an efficacy of 92.5%, respectively 99.5%. The applied product did not create any kind of phytotoxicity to our crop, at any of the 3 doses tested, and the vigor of the wheat was maintained at the level of 100%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the frequent occurrences of mycotoxins in cereals, this study assessed the presence of trichothecenes in 121 samples from Romanian markets. These samples were divided into five groups based on product type: (1) bread and bakery products containing white flour, (2) half-brown bread with whole wheat flour, (3) brown bread containing rye flour, (4) pasta, and (5) raw wheat. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry was used to detect 13 different mycotoxins, which included the Type A compounds HT-2 toxin and T-2 toxin, as well as the Type B compounds deoxynivalenol and nivalenol. Results indicated trichothecene contamination in 90.08% of our samples, with deoxynivalenol predominating by at least 78% in each examined group. Co-occurrence of three or four trichothecenes were found in 23.85% of our samples. Our study underscores the necessity of consistent monitoring of staple foods to prevent the intake of harmful trichothecenes by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds for animals and humans, naturally produced by different types of fungi. Exposure to mycotoxins through the consumption of contaminated food or feed leads to gastrointestinal and renal disorders to the point of immune deficiency and cancer. Most mycotoxins are chemically stable and persist in food processing. Fusarium graminearum is a dangerous pathogen of the cereals producing mycotoxins (trichothecene and zearalenone) harmful for human and animal health. Given the implementation of the requirements of the European Green Deal, especially those related to organic products, and in the context of climate change, especially the fluctuations in temperature and humidity, the increase of the presence of mycotoxins in food and feed is expected. In these conditions, the evaluation of the degree of mycotoxin contamination in different steps on the food chain, with fast and accurate methods, is very important. The aim of this work was to investigate the dynamics of fungi and related mycotoxins on wheat, maize and sunflower during cereal storage in vertical and classic silos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficiency of the autumn wheat crop requires the application of some general technologies, but improved with innovative and specific technological sequences, depending on the evolution of the vegetation cycle and the expected production components. The researches were performed during the 2020-2022, in the experimental field of NARDI Fundulea and aimed to study the influence of agrotechnical practices on the yields and quality of wheat. The paper presents the results obtained in experiences with sowing dates and plant density, under non-irrigation condition, in the south of the country. Recording a stable and high production of autumn wheat is possible if a good sowing quality is ensured and the optimal sowing interval and plant density per m2 are observed. The variability of individual productivity of wheat plants can increase with the delay of the sowing date by up to 10-20% for the number of grains/plant and between 10-25% for the weight of grains/plant, and these lead to a decrease for production per hectare with 1000-3000 kg/ha. The variation of climatic conditions influenced negatively wheat yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different wheat species, common wheat (Triticum aestivum subsp. aestivum), spelt (Triticum aestivum subsp. spelta) and einkorn (Triticum monococcum subsp. monococcum), were analyzed for physicochemical (moisture, ash, protein, wet gluten, lipid, starch, carbohydrates, test weight and thousand-kernel mass) and mineral elements (Ca, Mg, K, Na, Zn, Fe, Mn and Cu) concentrations in grains. Additionally, wheat grain microstructure was determined using a scanning electron microscope. SEM micrographs of wheat grains show that einkorn has smaller type A starch granule diameters and more compact protein bonds compared to common wheat and spelt grains, making it easier to digest. The ancient wheat grains presented higher values for ash, protein, wet gluten and lipid content compared to the common wheat grains, whereas the carbohydrates and starch content were significantly (p < 0.05) lower. The mean values showed that spelt (Triticum aestivum subsp. spelta) grains presented the highest values for Ca, Mg and K, while einkorn (Triticum monococcum subsp. monococcum) grains had the highest values for the microelements Zn, Mn and Cu. The highest values of Fe were recorded for common wheat varieties whereas no significant differences among the species were obtained for Na content. The principal component analysis (p > 0.05) between wheat flours characteristics showed a close association between wheat grain species and between the chemical characteristics of gluten and protein content (r = 0.994), lipid and ash content (r = 0.952) and starch and carbohydrate content (r = 0.927), for which high positive significant correlations (p < 0.05) were obtained. Taking into account that Romania is the fourth largest wheat producer at the European level, this study is of great global importance. According to the results obtained, the ancient species have higher nutritional value from the point of view of chemical compounds and macro elements of minerals. This may be of great importance for consumers who demand bakery products with high nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper was to study the phyto-inhibitory and antimicrobial activity of brown propolis collected from the counties of four regions in Romania. The main physico-chemical and functional properties of 16 samples of propolis from different landforms of geographical regions were determined. Their antimicrobial activities were established against 5 bacterial strains (Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Proteus mirabilis) and 5 fungal strains (Alternaria alternata, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Fusarium oxysporum, Mucor racemosus, and Aspergillus niger). Simultaneously, the phyto-inhibitory effect of propolis samples on different cereals was highlighted: hexaploid bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), maize (Zea mays L.), oats (Avena sativa L.), and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Correlations between the antioxidant activity and total flavonoid and phenol content of the propolis samples were identified, respectively, and the statistical analysis highlighted that the diameter of the inhibition zone was influenced by the strain type (bacterial and fungal) and the geographical regions of propolis. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that out of seven principal components, only two exhibited > 0.5. Pearson's correlation coefficient showed a low and moderate positive linear relationship between the diameter of the inhibition zone and the flavonoid and phenol concentration of the propolis samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-one varieties of wheat cultivated in Romania were analyzed regarding the genetic diversity and physicochemical properties, including the following determinations: moisture, ash, protein, wet gluten, lipid, starch content, falling number and damaged starch, considering the particularity of each species, its biological status and origin. The physicochemical data showed that the wheat samples presented large variability. The physicochemical properties of wheat flour were assessed by multivariable data analysis, using principal component analysis (PCA). All wheat samples clustered together according to their physicochemical data showed an association between all wheat species. The protein and ash contents were more related to the ancient wheat species, while the amounts of starch and damaged starch were associated with the modern ones. Positive correlations were obtained between protein and wet gluten content and between lipid and ash content. ISSR markers were used to analyze and compare genetic diversity among selected wheat cultivars. The obtained data were analyzed using NTSYSpc software considering the coefficients of similarity (Jaccard) and dissimilarity (Neighbor joining). The Jaccard coefficients varied from 0.53 to 1, reflecting the high genetic diversity characteristic of all wheat varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultivating wheat is an extremely important agricultural activity in Romania, with a significant impact on agricultural production and the country's economy. Notable variations in terms of yield, quality, resistance to unfavorable weather conditions, and adaptability of wheat varieties used in agriculture underscore the importance of choosing the right varieties according to the specific characteristics of the region. In the 2022-2023 agricultural season, characterized by abundant rainfall in September and October 2022, a comparative study is being conducted in the town of Cenei, Timiș County, to evaluate the performance of two wheat varieties in this region with distinct geographic and climatic features. The analyzed varieties are Trublion A, known for its semi-early maturity and resistance to leaf diseases, and Sophie CS, with semi-early maturity, smaller-sized plants, resistance to lodging and winter hardiness. This study focuses on the yield of the obtained crop, the quality of the produced wheat, resistance to stress factors such as drought and pests, as well as the costs and efforts involved in the cultivation process. The results obtained will provide critical information to farmers for making decisions regarding the ideal wheat varieties for cultivation in this region, contributing to the sustainability and efficiency of agriculture. The correct choice of wheat variety can optimize production and bring significant economic benefits in a complex and variable agricultural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of alternative soil tillage technologies, which ensure the conservation and maintenance of its productive capacity as well as the reduction of energy consumption per unit of processed area, is today a necessity in developing a sustainable agriculture. The study presented in this paper was carried out in the area of Oravița, Caraş-Severin County, Romania, and refers to the minimum tillage technology in wheat culture. The study points to the unfavourable effect of intensive soil works -- classic (conventional) system -- on soil erosion. This has led to the development of some research oriented towards new technologies of soil working in the conservation system. The purpose of this paper is to promote the introduction of alternative technologies in agricultural works, by dealing with the main technical, economic and environmental aspects that compete for the achievement of efficient agriculture. From an economic point of view, this method is less expensive because fuel consumption and machine working time are reduced. The use of modern mechanization technologies has a great economic efficiency due to the following aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continued population growth together with current climate change will threaten global food security in the near future. Wheat is a staple cereal crop for many countries, including Romania. Therefore, to obtain high yields, it is necessary to choose wheat cultivars with drought tolerance. Research has been done out during two growing seasons: 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 in the experimental field of ARDS Simnic, the purpose of this study being the evaluation of the drought tolerance of ten wheat varieties. The obtained results confirmed the strong positive relationships between the grain yields obtained both in drought (Ys) and non-stress conditions (Ys) and STI, MPI, GMP and YI indices, these selection indices expressing a high power of discrimination between varieties at a moderate level of drought stress (SI =0.53). Based on the rank sum (RS) of all selection indices, three drought tolerant varieties were identified, namely Miranda, Simnic 60 and Glosa. These varieties can be considered as the most suitable for cultivation in the study area and other areas with similar agroclimatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Through this paper we aimed to show that, during a vegetative cycle, winter cereal must go through a physiological process of vernalization (low temperatures), which induces and controls flowering and fruiting, also regulating the following development stages. The research objective was to establish the vernalization model on 5 wheat and 2 barley winter varieties, in difficult climatic conditions, generated by water stress, lack of cold periods, but also by some technological aspects. Own research, observations and measurements were carried out in the experimental fields with varieties from south Romania (Modelu - Calarasi county), during the period 2012-2022.It was found that there are significant differences between varieties regarding the parameters required for vernalization, the development of which is genetically coordinated by genes that produce vernalin -- the hormone that induces vernalization and which, modified by demethylation, forms gibberellic acid, subsequently participating in the development of the apex, of the spikelets, of the ear, pollinating anthers and soft grains. Uneven seedbed preparation work and sowing depth also create inequalities in water access to seeds, in the achievement of germination and vernalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper purpose was to assess the impact of climate change on wheat, maize and sunflower yield in the period 2017-2021, using statistical data from National Institute of Statistics (NIS) and National Administration of Meteorology (NAM) and other sources. Comparison method was used to evaluate the deviations between the registered air temperatures and precipitations and the 1981-2010 climatological norm. Graphic method reflected the dynamics of monthly air temperatures and rainfalls in each year. Descriptive statistics for mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation reflected an more comprehensive image upon air temperature, precipitations and yield. Correlations and regression equations were used to establish the intensity of the kinks between climate factors and yield. The highest average air temperature In Romania was 12.130C in 2019. In the period 2017-2020, the average annual temperatures exceeded the climatological norm 1981-2010 accounting for 9.10C. The lowest rainfalls, 614.2 mm, were recorded in 2019, being below of 633.1 mm the norm for the period 1981-2010. The high temperatures associated with drought and low precipitations have deeply affected yield of many agricultural crops, including maize, wheat and sunflower. The highest wheat yield 4,888 kg/ha was achieved in 2017, and the lowest one, 2,966 kg/ha in 2020. Maize registered the highest performance of 7,644 kg/ha in 2018, and the lowest one, 3,977 kg/ha in 2020. Sunflower carried out the high performance 3,041 kg/ha in 2018, and the lowest one, 1,858 kg/ha in 2020. The worst agricultural years for these three crops was 2020, but 2017 favored wheat, while 2018 favored maize and sunflower. The correlation coefficient had in general small values between average temperature and yield, but a higher link with precipitations level. The multiple correlation between yield, air temperatures and precipitations was: r= 0.817 for wheat, r = 0.116 for maize and r = 0.504 for sunflower. In the South Eastern Dobrogea, the driest area in Romania, the rainfalls declined by 65% in the period 2018-2020 having a deep negative impact on sunflower seeds yield, which decreased from 4,282 kg/ha in 2018, to 1,503 kg/ha in 2020. The correlation between precipitations and sunflower yield positive and very strong (r = 0.737). As a conclusion, the climate conditions should be analyzed in each farm and farmers have to take measure to adapt the technologies for sustaining production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pedoclimatic elements and smart technology act simultaneously on the biological processes of agricultural crops and on the level of harvest, which requires the study of their correlation to determine the continuous influence of these factors in obtaining the planned levels of production. In Romania, annually, over 2.1 million hectares of wheat are cultivated, with annual productions of over 10 million tons, placing wheat crops in the first place as economic importance. Knowing the management of natural resources in quantitative terms is especially valuable when we talk about their sustainable use. Our evaluation includes in this paper the relationship between the pedoclimatic resources of South-Eastern Romania and the zoning of wheat varieties in order to obtain superior quantitative and qualitative productions. The last 11 agricultural years are analyzed, both in terms of the influence of global warming and in terms of wheat zoning to obtain sustainable production to highlight the genetic potential of the varieties under the conditions of the Brailei Plain. A stability of the varieties Glosa, Miranda, Litera (varieties over 15 years old) was observed, but not least of the new ones created by the National Research and Development Institute from Fundulea such as: Pitar, Ursita, Adelina, Izvor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereals are the most produced commodity worldwide, according to statistical data. Among the top ten countries in the list of the most important producers of corn and wheat respectively, as well as among the largest exporters of these categories of cereals, there are two countries located in the Black Sea basin, Ukraine and the Russian Federation. Other important competitors in the region were Romania and Turkey, who took 3rd or 4th place in corn or wheat production. At the same time, Romania occupied the 6th place in the ranking of corn exporters worldwide and 9th in that of wheat exporters in 2021. In addition to the four states mentioned before, in the paper, in the area related to the maritime basin, Armenia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Republic of Moldova and Greece were also included. The paper aimed to provide a coherent picture of competitiveness on the grain market, at the Black Sea basin level, and, at the same time, to highlight the position that Romania occupies in the economy of the area and in the world grain trade. For this purpose, the areas cultivated with corn and wheat were presented, as well as the productions obtained in the period 2015-2021 in the countries of the area related to the Black Sea basin, then the value imports and exports of corn and wheat that these countries recorded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the variation of starch content (ST) in wheat grains, under the influence of mineral fertilization. The experimental were organized and carried out in the period 2020 - 2021, within the SCDA Lovrin, Romania. The Ciprian wheat variety was cultivated by appropriate culture technology, in non-irrigated system, on a chernozem type soil. Three doses for nitrogen was applied (0, 60 and 120 kg ha-1), two doses for phosphorus (0 and 60 kg ha-1), and four doses for potassium (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg ha-1). The starch content (ST, %) was determined by the nondestructive method (NIR), PERTEN INFRAMATIC 9200 device. Values of the starch content were recorded between 68.60-72.17±0.30% in the conditions of 2020 year, 69.15-72.73±0.26% in the conditions of 2021 year, respectively 68.94-72.42±0.28% as average values, over the study period. The data series distribution, average values over study period, was as a normal type, and safety vas confirmed by correlation coefficient (values between r=0.829 in the case of V15, and r=0.985 in the case of V10). ST variation, depending to N and PK (as a direct and interaction effect of fertilizers), was evaluated by regression analysis (R2=0.880, p<0.001). Based on the values of the coefficients of the obtained equation, the optimal values for N and PK were calculated and the values xopt=75.10 kg N ha-1 active substance (a.s.), and yopt=120.00 kg PK ha-1 a.s. were obtained. The Cluster analysis used, facilitated the grouping of the tested variants, based on the Euclidean distances, in relation to the starch content values recorded in the wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed the efficiency of nitrogen use in winter wheat, cultivar 'Ciprian' through the combined application of nitrogen with phosphorus fertilizers, between 2016 and 2021. The research was organized within ARDS Lovrin, Timiş County, Romania, under the conditions of a chernozem soil type. The experimental factors considered were: experimental factor A - year of experimentation - six years 2016-2021; experimental factor B - mineral nitrogen fertilizers, with the following graduations: 0 kg N ha-1 (control), 30 kg N ha-1, 60 kg N ha-1, 90 kg N ha-1 and 120 kg N ha-1; experimental factor C - mineral phosphorus fertilizers, with the following five graduations: 0 kg P ha-1 (control), 40 kg P ha-1, 80 kg P ha-1, 120 kg P ha-1 and 160 kg P ha-1. Production has been taken into consideration for NEU evaluation (Y, kg ha-1), the total nitrogen (Ntot) content (%) of the grains, N uptake (%) in relation to the experimental factors considered. Differences in NUEs had different significance compared to each experimental factor, and the interaction between A×B, A×C and B×C factors generated differences in statistically safe conditions (p<0.05 in A×C case, and p<0.001 in A×B and B×C case). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compound feed and the raw materials used in their production are potential vectors of microbiological contamination in the food chain. The purpose of this study was to microbiologically asses raw materials (maize, wheat, soybean meal, and sunflower meal), and broiler compound feed (starter, grower, and finisher) from a representative feed mill in Romania; the microbiological contaminants that were analyzed were yeasts and molds, Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli, and Clostridium perfringens. Our study occured during the years 2019 and 2020; in 2019, 191 samples of raw materials and 360 samples of compound feed were analyzed and in 2020, 143 samples of raw materials and 241 samples of compound feed were analzyed. Among the tested samples of raw materials, the mean values of the yeasts and molds for maize, wheat, soybean, and sunflower meal were 1.3 × 103, 9.5 × 102, 6.4 × 102, and 7.4 × 102 cfu/g in 2019 and 1.5 × 103, 1.0 × 103, 5.2 × 102, and 7.1 × 102 cfu/g in 2020. In the analyzed compound feed samples, the mean amounts for the starter, grower, and finisher were 5.9 × 102, 4.2 × 102, and 4.2 × 102 cfu/g in 2019 and 5.3 × 102, 6.5 × 102, and 5.8 × 102 cfu/g in 2020. Potentially toxigenic fungi from Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium genera have been identified as the most common in all of the samples. In the raw materials, in both years the highest numbers of Aspergillus-positive samples were recorded: 66.6% in 2019 and 100% in 2020 for the maize samples, 50% in 2019 and 75% in 2020 for the wheat samples, 76% in 2019 and 87.5% in 2020 for the soybean meal samples and 71.4% in 2019 and 100% in 2020 for the sunflower meal. In the starter compound feed, the Aspergillus genera was prevailing in 2019 (46.6%), while in 2020, the species of the Penicillium and Cladosporium genera were identified in the majority of the samples (50%); for the grower and finisher compound feed, the Aspergillus genera was predominantly identified in 2019 (60% and 72.2% of the samples, respectively) and 2020 (61.5% and 46.6%, respectively). All of the results of the bacteriological analysis for determining the contamination with Salmonella spp., E. coli, and Clostridium perfringens were negative. Based on the results obtained in this study, monitoring and analysis of microbiological hazards in a feed mill will help to control and prevent contamination and have a direct impact on food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Straw cereals, especially wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), are the most widely cultivated plant in the world, grown in over 100 countries, and are a prime commercial source. In this respect, the study was carried out in the growing season 2021-2022, in the agro technology conditions of Secuieni area, Neam County, Romania, where 10 genotypes of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) were studied, including 9 wheat varieties cultivars (Trublion, Centurion, Katarina, Glosa, Aspekt, Izvor, Avenue, Solehio, Alcantara) and 1 wheat hybrids variety (Hyxperia). We have used a sowing density of 500 germinable grains/sm, 360 germinable grains/sm and 250 germinable grains/sm. In this paper are presented data concerning grain yield related to the unit area (kg/ha) and yield components represented by the plant density after emergence (plants/sm), plant density in spring (main shoots and tillers/sm), head plant density at the harvest time (ears/sm), the weight of the grains in the spikes (g/ear), as well as main physical indices related to the quality, i.e. thousand kernels weight (TGW) and hectolitre mass (HLM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was carried out during the period of 2020-2022 in the south-eastern part of Romania on a reddish preluvosoil. Two types of slag from the metallurgical industry were applied, namely furnace slag and converter slag in doses of 1 t/ha, 3 t/ha and 5 t/ha. Taking into consideration the chemical composition of these materials and the fact that they contain elements such as Ca, P, Zn, Ni, Fe, Mg, they can be used to neutralize the acidic reaction of soils and for a better utilization of nutrients by crop plants. The research analyzed the effect of these materials on the chemical properties of the soil, on the soil's reaction, the soil's humus content and content in elements, as well as their influence on the production of maize, wheat and peas, while also taking into account the content in macroelements and heavy metals found in the soil and crop plants. The obtained results demonstrated that the application of these materials in the established doses of 1, 3 and 5 tons/ha led to significant increases in the production of maize, wheat and peas without the risk of accumulation of heavy metals in the soil and in the crop plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium graminearum (Fusarium Head Blight - FHB) is a dangerous pathogen of the cereals producing mycotoxins harmful for human and animal health. The quality of the wheat grains is severely affected in the years with FHB epidemics due to the high mycotoxins level that can overpass maximum allowable concentrations, with implications for food safety. The purpose of the work was to investigate some variables involved in the contamination of the wheat grains with several harmful mycotoxins (DON, ZON and T-2) in conditions of FHB natural infection in an epidemic year. The main finding of the results highlighted that the low ears densities of wheat crop canopy determinate high FHB attack frequency, too. Climate conditions from May 2019 were very favourable for the evolution of FHB epidemics in western Romania. This fact was confirmed by the experimental results of FHB attack, and later by the concentrations of mycotoxins (DON) over the maximum allowable concentrations from the wheat grains at the harvesting moment. The overpass of DON concentration was found in 15 from the total 16 wheat varieties from the experiment. Positive significant correlations were found between DON and T-2 and between DON and fungus attack intensity. According with the results, in FHB epidemic year some of the most influential factors in the contamination of the wheat grains with DON, ZON and T-2 in the order of their importance are: ears density, frequency of the attack on ear, number of diseased ears and attack intensity on ears. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to set up a successful rapeseed culture, farmers should take into account, since the preparation of the germination bed, some essential technological elements that make the difference most often between a successful culture and one that has not survived. Of these specific elements, we need to mention crop rotation, land preparation, sowing, fertilising, and rolling. The study was carried out at the farm “I.I. Marincu Răzvan” on an area of 100 ha in the village of Icloda, commune of Sacoșu Turcesc, Timiș County, Romania. In 2021-2022, four cultures were set up: rapeseed, wheat, sunflower, and maize. Rapeseed was cultivated on an area of 17 ha using as working technology ploughing, discing, drilling, and sowing. The purpose was to obtain a good plant emergence and a good harvest. In order to obtain a good production, the seed used to set up rapeseed cultures should be certified, with a physical purity of at least 98% and a germination of more than 85%. All the seed used for this purpose should be treated with both fungicides and insecticides. It is necessary to take into account the deviations that appear in some years compared to the multiannual mean both in terms of temperature and rainfall, but especially compared to their distribution during vegetation periods. These deviations can be corrected by appropriate cultivation technology measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

S. C. LuzardoPrestServL. L. C. is an economic agent with a considerable seniority in the field (founded in 2009), which appeared in the idea of satisfying the local requirements, related to the needs of the landowners regarding the execution of mechanical works in the agricultural field. In the course of time according to the Articles of Incorporation and due to the evolution of the economic environment, the company has achieved the diversification of its activity by focusing on the cultivation of field plants. The vast majority of the current activity is carried out on the territory of Bârca and Giurgița communes in Dolj County. During the period 2018-2020, the unit cultivated autumn wheat, barley, oats, corn, sunflower and alfalfa.The works follows the situation and the evolution of the financial indicators, starting from the profit and loss account of the unit. The economic operator recorded total revenues between 3,839,945 and 4,058,383 lei (2018 and 2020 respectively), variable total expenses from 3,022,907 lei in 2018 to 3,987,541 in 2020, and the net profit rate reached extremes of 0.97 and 26.05% in the case of the years 2020 and 2018. At the unit level, there is a need for an adequate management of inputs, as well as a more careful reporting on market realities in order to be able to cope with the current economic situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romania plays an important role in the whole of EU agriculture, being a major player in the cereals, oilseeds and vegetables market. In 2020, Romania ranked first in sunflower production, fifth in wheat production and seventh in potato production. The research aims to determine the distribution of import and export values for wheat, potato and sunflower crops, sales prices and the security of the position of the crops studied in Romania. By calculating the Gini coefficient, the degree of concentration for wheat import showed a high value, while for wheat export it showed a low value. For potato cultivation, the values of imports in 2020 were evenly distributed due to the lower concentration of the coefficient, while for exports, the degree of concentration was higher. For imports and exports, the Gini coefficient shows an even concentration range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the use of nitrogen in wheat crop, in terms of Agronomic Efficiency (AE) and Partial Factor Productivity (PFP). The experiment was conducted in the specific conditions of the Banat University of Agricultural Science and Veterinary Medicine of Timisoara (BUASVM), Timis County, Romania. Nitrogen (N) was provided on the basis of ammonium nitrate, in the range 0 - 250 kg a.s. ha-1, in 11 experimental variants (T1 to T11). The AE index varied between 14.631 (T2) and 9.138 (T11), with a maximum (27.211) corresponding to the N75 dose (T4). The PFP index recorded decreasing values from 90.497 (T2) to 16.725 (T11). The AE index variation in relation to N was described by the polynomial equation of degree 4 (R² = 0.975, p <0.01), and the AE index variation according to Y was described by a polynomial equation of degree 3 (R² = 0.722, p = 0.0233). In relation to the calculated progressive increase yield (ΔPY) the AE variation was described by a linear equation (R² = 0.780, p <0.001). The PFP index variation in relation to N was described by a polynomial equation of degree 3 (R² = 0.994, p <0.001), and in relation to N and Y, as simultaneous influence, was described in statistical safety conditions (R² = 0.885, p = 0.0144). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article assesses the occurrence of Fusarium-damaged kernels (FDKs) in common wheat (Triticum aestivum) under the influence of environmental factors and extreme weather events in Romania (exceptionally high air temperatures and extreme pedological drought produced by a dipole block in summer 2015, and extreme precipitation and floods produced by an omega block in spring 2016). Wheat samples (N = 272) were analyzed for FDKs via visual estimation and manual weighing according to ISO 7970 and are statistically evaluated using SPSS. The dipole block in 2015 reduced the effects of environmental factors to non-significant correlations with FDKs, while the omega block in 2016 was non-significantly to very significantly correlated with FDKs in the northwestern and western regions. The occurrence of FDKs was favored for wheat cultivation in acidic soils and inhibited in alkaline soils. Wheat samples with FDKs ≥ 1% were sampled from crops grown in river meadows with high and very high risks of flooding. Knowing the contaminants' geographical and spatial distributions under the influence of regular and extreme weather events is important for establishing measures to mitigate the effects of climate change and to ensure human and animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As it is well known, Romania is an important cultivator and producer of wheat in the European Union. Due to the pedo-climatic conditions that our country has, wheat is found in all development regions, and especially in the South-Muntenia Region. Here, in 2020, 602,794 ha were cultivated, representing 28% of Romania's total area cultivated with wheat. The production obtained was 1,753,248 tons, and accounted for 27% of Romania's total wheat production. Unfortunately, this crop faces diseases and pests that can affect plant nutrition and development, and ultimately influences indicators such as the average production and total production. Contamination of cereals with toxic fungal metabolites is one of the main problems of contemporary agriculture. Fusarium species are the most dangerous pathogens of cereals and have a high level of toxicity. These metabolites are the main cause of the development of cereal fusarium (FHB). Under the existing natural conditions at Albota-Pitesti Agricultural Research and Development Station (ARDS), Arges County the paper presents several studies on the mineral nutrition of winter wheat subject to the risk of contamination with Fusarium toxins. It should be noted that the types of soil on which the experiments were performed were Vertic Luvisols. Five winter wheat varieties were selected for testing: Delabrad, Dropia, Faur, Glosa and Gruia. The phenophases in which the mineral nutrition of the plants was characterized with macro and micronutrients, were those of the ear emergence-flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the south part of Romania, during 2016-2021, research was conducted on the water stress of wheat crop, represented by 7 varieties of premium genetics wheat, i.e. high in protein and gluten. The analysis of NDMI (Normalized Difference Moisture Index) showed that, during the research period, the plants benefited from an average index of 0.21 units, placing the area in the category of those that offer a moderate size of vegetation and a medium stress for water. Under these conditions, the average wheat yield was 4,413 kg/ha, i.e. less than 50% of the varieties potential. The annual wheat variation of NDMI (170 days, spring-summer) ranged from -0.015 units in 2020, when yield was below 2,000 kg/ha, to 0.356 units in 2021, when due to phytosanitary stress, the average yield was of 5,512 kg/ha. Rest of the years had intermediate values, in each of them the water stress being present either in spring or in summer. The correlation between the water stress and the obtained yields was represented as a polynomial function, statistically assured. Average yields of 50% of the variety potential can be obtained at stresses of not less than 0.1-0.2 NDMI units. In this regard, it is necessary to rethink technologies, especially on recalculating the level of some inputs, which in conditions of pronounced water stress are only partially used by plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The aim of the present research was to study the mineral composition of flours produced from different wheat varieties from the collection of the Plant Genetic Resources Bank "Mihai Cristea" Suceava, Romania cultivated under the same conditions. Materials and methods. Twenty four samples of whole wheat flour produced from different wheat varieties namely fifteen from common wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), five from einkorn wheat (Triticum monococcum L.) and four from spelt wheat (Triticum spelta L.) were analyzed to determine their mineral composition using an Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis. The statistical analysis of the results was made using the hierarchical cluster analysis technique with a WARD method as a grouping algorithm. Results and discussion. Generally, the ancient species of wheat were characterized by higher total mineral content than the modern ones, especially einkorn varieties. For all samples of flours significant differences were found in the amount of potassium (K), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). However, all wheat varieties had high potassium and low copper amounts comparative to the other determined elements. Some of the most important microminerals for human nutrition, for example, Fe and Zn, were found in high amounts in flours from different wheat varieties but the samples from ancient wheat were characterized with bigger amounts of these elements than the modern ones. Meanwhile, in some modern wheat varieties these minerals were also present in sufficient quantities. The content of minerals depended more on the agronomic yield than on whether wheat varieties belonged to ancient or modern species. Conclusions. The results show high variation in the mineral amount between different varieties. The knowledge of this variation can be useful in further breeding studies which aim to improve the nutritional quality of wheat grain and to develop micronutrient biofortification strategies. Both spelt and common wheat varieties showed overall a high mineral content. It seems that the agronomic yield has a significant impact on the mineral nutrients amount in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the southern part of the Romanian Plain, a research was carried out over a period of 5 agricultural years (2016-2021) regarding the evaluation of wheat crops, consisting of 7 premium varieties, on a surface of 110 ha. The NDVI index was used to assess the quality of management, the influence of climate change, which are in constant variation, on wheat crops and their ability to fix atmospheric carbon in the form of CO2. For analyzing the data obtained from the Sentinel-2 satellite, in order to make the NDVI periodically summing and, then, to establish the daily average during the vegetation period from spring to summer, the calculation of the correlations and of the complex functions in 2D were used. In the integrated amount, NDVI ranged between 110.06 in 2020, the driest year, and 124.79 in 2018, the most favorable year for wheat cultivation. Yields also fluctuated in direct proportion to NDVI values, from 2,100 to 6,700 kg of wheat/ha. The obtained results place the area in conditions of high risk to water and other climatic factors, risks that can be partially reduced by optimizing crop management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

No-till (NT) is a component of conservation agriculture that can enhance resilience to climate change and reduce costs, soil erosion and fertility decline. Yields under NT can be improved by optimising crop management practices, including better adapted cultivars. To explore possibilities opened by identifying wheat cultivars better adapted to NT agriculture, eight cultivars were tested in parallel yield trials organized in South Romania, during six years, under NT after soybeans or maize and under Traditional agriculture. The average performance of cultivars under no-till agriculture was not significantly correlated with the performance under the traditional system, with correlation coefficients higher and close to significance between NT system after maize and traditional system (r=0.69) and even negative but non-significant between NT after soybeans and traditional system. Cultivars reacted differently to NT agriculture, the yield differences between NT and traditional system averaged over six years varying from -419 kg ha-1 to more than 1000 kg ha-1. Years, Crop Management Systems and Cultivars (in this order of impact), as well as the interactions between Cultivars*Years, and Systems*Years, had significant effects on the variation of the yield differences between agricultural systems. These results underline the importance of yield testing under NT for appropriate recommendation of most suitable cultivars, and suggest that genetic progress in creating cultivars more adapted to conservation agriculture is possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For organic agriculture, wheat cultivars with good and stable grain yield across years are needed. Grain yield and hectolitre weight of 10 cultivars were estimated in field trials for three years at conventionally and organically production systems under the central part of Oltenia, Romania conditions. Our research evidentiated that cultivar influenced significant only hectolitre weight; production system influenced significant the both grain yield and hectolitre weight, and interaction between cultivars x production system was non-significant for the both traits. On average for the study period, the grain yield from the organic production system was by 35% lower than that achieved from the conventional production system. Hectolitre weight was also, affected by production system showing in the organic system values by 2% lower than in the conventional system. The cultivar Miranda was more stable than the other studied cultivars in both conventional and organic production system. On average most cultivars fulfilled the requirements for Grades 2 and 3, but the percentage of cases below the 72 kg/hl limit (non bakery value) varied from 0 to 66.7% in both production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Straw cereals, especially wheat (Triticum aestivum), are the most widely cultivated plant in the world, grown in over 100 countries, and are a prime commercial source. The uses of straw cereals are many and varied. The grains are used for a range of milling products from which a rich assortment of bakery products, pastries and biscuits are made, which constitute basic foods for 35-55% of the world's population, providing 50-55% of calories consumed worldwide, along with other grains grown. The processing of wheat in high-capacity mills results in large quantities of bran, which is a valuable concentrated feed (rich in protein, lipids and mineral salts) and germs high in vitamins, which is a natural provitamin but also lipids with uses in cosmetics. Straw left over from harvesting can be used to make pulp, bulk feed or bedding for various categories of animals, organic fertilizer after a period of composting or incorporated as such into the soil after harvest, and by briquetting can be used as fuel. The agronomic importance is given by: integral mechanization of the crop; early release of the land and the possibility of summer plowing, being a good precrop for most crops; according to the early varieties, it allows the location of successive crops in certain areas. In this respect, a field experiments were established in the year 2020 at the Agricultural and Development Research Station Secuieni (ADRS Secuieni) located in North Romania (Neam? County) and at Experimental Trials of Saaten Union Romania at Drajna Nouă located in South-East (Călăra?i County). The experimental variants were represented by the nine winter wheat varieties (Trublion, Centurion, Katarina, Glosa, Aspekt, Izvor, Avenue, Solehio, Alcantara) and one hybrid wheat (Hyxperia) in three repetitions in both locations, with the following graduations: a) 250 germinable kernels/sm; b) 360 germinable kernels/sm; c) 500 germinable kernels/sm. The obtained results indicate that at medium density the production results are superior to the variants of low and high density, which implies giving us more profitability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For wheat and maize the yields and quality are affected by management practices, soil and climate conditions and genetic characteristics. The research was conducted between 2019 and 2021, in the experimental field of NARDI Fundulea and the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of agrotechnical measures and climatic conditions on the yield and quality of wheat and corn. The experiment involved four different soil works, using three maize hybrids (Iezer, Mostistea and F423) and three wheat varieties (Glosa, Izvor and Pitar) and three fertilized options. The hight productions and good quality of wheat and maize were maximized by applying the factors in associated variants. The results showed that the crops were very significantly affected by the conditions of the year as well as most of the interactions between the factors. The conservative tillages of the soil associated with the fertilization with manure have potentiated the genetic characteristics of the crop plant, raising the final quality of the production by 5-10%, depending on the variant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research aimed to determine the effectiveness of treatments in the control of wheat diseases between 2015-2019 at the Moara Domnească Didactic Resort, Ilfov County located in South Romania. Based on the data on monitoring the attack in the control and treated variants, the effectiveness of the treatments applied in the vegetation was determined. Observations were made on Glosa and Boema varieties in 2015-2017 and on Katou, Pitbul and Jaguar varieties in 2017-2019, for the pathogens Blumeria graminis f.sp. tritici, Zymoseptoria tritici, Septoria spp., (FA), Fusarium spp. and Puccinia recondita. The effectiveness of the applied treatments was 90.7% in powdery mildew control (Boema variety, 2015/2016), 90% in septoriosis control (Jaguar variety, 2018/2019, 73% Boema variety 2016/2017), 66.6% in fusariosis control (Boema variety, 2016/2017), 73.3% in brown rust control (Jaguar variety, 2028/20190). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was carried out in 2017-2019 period under the soil-climate conditions of Agricultural Research and Development Station - ARDS Caracal and included several DH mutant/recombinant winter wheat lines. The experiment was set up after randomized blocks method in three replications. The main goal of the research was to identify new competitive winter wheat lines with improved resistance for the new specific conditions of the South Romania. During the research observations, determinations and measurements concerning morphological, productivity and quality characters were made. The analysis of the average data indicated that DH mutant/recombinant winter wheat lines can easily adapt to the cultivation conditions from experimented areal. Regarding productivity, experimented material presented superiority in terms compared with the average of known varieties used as control. The obtained results also showed genetic value of some mutant/recombinant wheat lines, which in addition to productivity present high quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researches carried out in the long-term experimental fields of the agricultural research stations from Valu lui Traian, Turda and Lovrin (experiments started in 1967) and Teleorman and Secuieni (started in 1976 and 1975) highlighted that phosphorus fertilization in doses of 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg/ha led to statistically assured increases for wheat and maize production and to an increase in the level of soil supply with available phosphorus. Currently, in Romania 65.41% of the country's agricultural area are characterised by small, very small and extremely low values of soil available phosphorus content. The trend is worsening due to the low level of using phosphorus fertilizers (on average, between 2012-2019, 13 kg P/ha were applied, the deficit being 26.46 kg/ha). Therefore, it is required a minimum dose of phosphorus of 80 kg/ha, while over 120 kg P/ha are needed to ensure a better level of soil phosphorus content. Higher doses ensure not only higher yields but also better use of nitrogen-based fertilizers or nitrogen and potassiumbased fertilizers. In all long-term experiments (39-51 years) high doses of phosphorus (over 120 kg P/ha) led to an increase in soil phosphorus stock at a very high level of supply in all experimental stations. Every 100 kg P/ha increases annually the soil phosphorus content with 0.59-1.90 mg/kg. Long-term (39-51 years) fertilization with phosphorus, regardless of dose (up to 200 kg P/ha) did not lead to statistically assured increases of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn, Mn) content in soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the recent climate change - with extreme phenomena such as severe heat waves, drought, extreme summer heat, floods more and more often, it is important to know the varieties of wheat which have a constant behavior at diseases and pests in different environmental conditions. In addition to the climatic factor, Romanian farmers who want to obtain high and quality yields in crops, should take into account other aspects, when deciding on the cultivar of wheat they will grow. Thus, 8 cultivars of wheat were characterized, which presented the following fungi and pests: Puccinia spp., Mycosphaerella graminicola f.c. Septoria tritici, Blumeria graminis f.c. Oidium monilioides, Leptosphaeria nodorum f.c. Septoria nodorum, Gibberella zeae f.c. Fuzarium graminearum; Eurygaster spp., Haplothrips tritici. The observations were made between 2018 and 2020, in the South Muntenia Region of Romania and the attack of diseases and pests was assessed by estimating the frequency of attack, the intensity of attack and the degree of attack. A treatment scheme for wheat diseases and pests control in the generative stage using approved products was also developed. In order to chemically control the main diseases and pests of wheat in the generative stage, it is necessary to apply two treatments, depending on the degree of attack and, respectively, the economic threshold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]