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As climate change intensifies, drought stress presents a critical challenge for horticultural crops like okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). The effectiveness of melatonin in reducing drought stress is investigated in this study. The treatments include: Absolute control (fully irrigated), control (drought), drought and seed treatment with 100 µM melatonin, drought and foliar spray of 100 µM melatonin, and drought stress with combined effect of seed treatment and foliar spray of 100 µM melatonin. Physiological parameters such as photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, Fv/Fm ratio, and chlorophyll index were evaluated, alongside biochemical parameters including malondialdehyde, proline content, membrane stability index and antioxidant enzyme activities such as catalase and ascorbate peroxidase were quantified. Melatonin supplemented as seed treatment and foliar spray enhanced both physiological and biochemical parameters including antioxidant activity compared to drought control. Metabolite profiling identified bioactive compounds (mainly carbohydrates and amino acids) contributing to drought tolerance in okra. The results highlight that application of 100 µM melatonin via seed treatment and foliar spray enhances drought tolerance in okra, suggesting its potential to enhance crop resilience under water-deficit conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cucurbit fruit fly or melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae (Coquilett) is the most devastating pest of horticultural crops. Laboratory research with maggots and adults of fruit flies necessitates the need for mass rearing. A few artificial diets have been evaluated for mass rearing of Z. cucurbitae, but each had few challenges like handling and management of bulking agents, early instar maggots ensuring special care from drowning in liquid diet, lower pupal recovery and maximum mean generation time. With this mandate, the present study was formulated to evaluate the fitness of different artificial diets on Z. cucurbitae maggots in comparison to the natural hosts cucumber and pumpkin. Age-stage, two-sex life table approach was used to assess the efficacy of the artificial diets. Development duration (egg, maggots, pre-pupa and pupa), adult longevity, lifespan, adult pre-oviposition period (APOP), total pre-oviposition period (TPOP), oviposition period, fecundity and sex ratio were observed. Eggs placed on the diets and natural hosts were observed to hatch but none of the maggots reached the second instar when fed with artificial diets labelled as D1 (Diet 1) to D5 (Diet 5), each of a different composition. Among the artificial diets evaluated, the only artificial diet labelled as D6 (Diet 6) supported the survival and growth of maggots. Hence, a life table study was evaluated for the fitness of the semi-artificial solid diet D6 in comparison to the natural hosts, cucumber and pumpkin. The biological and population parameters observed on the diet D6 were equivalent to the natural hosts except the development duration of maggots. Thus, the semi-artificial solid diet D6 based on pumpkin and common bean powder can be used for efficient mass rearing and laboratory research on Z. cucurbitae maggots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white grubs infests diverse crops of food and horticultural importance such as groundnut, sugarcane, kharif pulses, vegetables areca nut, ginger, potato, etc. and it inflict losses as high as 100 per cent, depending upon the severity of infestation have been uncommon. In present study, attemts have been made to explore the potentiality of entomopathogens for the management of the white grub Holotrichia consanguinea a serious pest in groundnut crop in Rajasthan during kharif seasons, 2018 and 2019. Results revealed that furrow application of Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae powder formulation @ 5 kg (1×1012 CFU/gm) and H. indica galleria @ 5000 galleria per hectare at the time of sowing were significantly superior in reducing the per cent plant mortality (28.00%, 29.33%, 31.77%, respectively) and increase yield over untreated control (12.82, 11.53, 10.78 q/ha respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The application of nanoparticles (NPs) in horticultural crops is in a tremendous increase. NPs help in the overcoming of stresses with positive impacts on plant growth and development. Silver NPs (AgNPs) have numerous pre‐ and postharvest applications in agriculture. Aims and methods: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of AgNPs application (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 ppm) at three spray intervals (5, 10, and 15 days) on the morphological and compositional traits, and defense system of strawberry. Results: Results showed that AgNPs application enhanced the growth, yield, quality, and nutritional aspects of strawberry grown under field conditions. Shoot fresh weight (20.20 g) and leaf number/plant (41.53) were enhanced at 100 ppm AgNPs and 15 days interval. A stunted growth of strawberry plants was recorded at 200 ppm AgNPs. Moreover, a 15‐day‐spray interval was found optimum for the improvement of major morphological traits. Fruit size, yield, total soluble solids, acidity, and antioxidant capacity were improved at 50 and 100 ppm AgNPs. The activation of plant defense system, that is, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, total soluble protein, and ascorbic acid was improved under AgNPs foliar application. The activation of stress indicating marker malondialdehyde outlined a high defense response of strawberry at 150 ppm AgNPs. Conclusions: Conclusively, AgNPs application at 50, 100, and 150 ppm can be considered effective for sustainable strawberry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of pathogens and other natural enemies to suppress pest populations is a key component of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. As biocontrol agents may interact synergistically, additively, or antagonistically, it is crucial to assess their interactions for effective pest management. In this study, we investigated the effect of three entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) species—Beauveria bassiana (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill. CEP 091, Akanthomyces muscarius (Petch) Spatafora, Kepler & B. Shrestha CEP 182, and Cordyceps fumosorosea (Wize) Kepler, B. Shrestha & Spatafora CEP 315 (all Hypocreales)—on the survival, fecundity, and searching behavior of Orius insidiosus (Say) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae). All three EPF species were found to be pathogenic to O. insidiosus, resulting in a significant decrease in survival compared with the control group. Fecundity remained unaffected by the fungal treatments. No effect of EPF on searching behavior of the predator was found. In relation to the searching behavior, individuals of 2 days post‐infections remained in the food patch longer than individuals of 7 days post‐infections, regardless of treatment. These findings provide valuable insights into the compatibility of EPF and O. insidiosus as combined biocontrol agents for managing whiteflies, aphids, and thrips. Understanding the interactions between EPF and predatory insects is crucial for developing IPM strategies that maximize pest control efficacy. Further studies should explore the long‐term effects of EPF on O. insidiosus populations and their overall impact on pest management in agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document explores the impact of biostimulants on horticultural crops, emphasizing the importance of food security and the challenges faced by horticultural production due to various factors. Six research articles in the Special Issue focus on different biostimulants and their effects on crops like apricots, olives, geraniums, carrots, tomatoes, and onions. The studies highlight the potential of biostimulants, including microbial and natural sources, to enhance plant growth, yield, and quality, offering sustainable solutions for horticultural practices. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects and scalability of biostimulants in horticulture. [Extracted from the article]

The document "Recent Advancements in Postharvest Fruit Quality and Physiological Mechanism" published in the journal Horticulturae discusses the importance of postharvest techniques in maintaining fruit quality. The document highlights the impact of preharvest and postharvest treatments on fruit quality, including the use of chemical elicitors and inhibitors to enhance firmness and reduce weight loss. Additionally, the document explores testing technologies for measuring fruit internal quality and the effects of cutting methods on fresh-cut fruit products. Overall, the document aims to provide researchers with insights into advanced technologies and regulatory mechanisms for maintaining postharvest fruit quality. [Extracted from the article]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., family Solanaceae) represents one of the most cultivated horticultural crops worldwide. It contains various nutrients, providing health benefits. For better crop management strategies, especially with global warming, it is crucial to investigate how varieties or cultivars bred for different purposes respond to the changing macro or microenvironmental conditions. This research aimed to assess the growth, reproductive development and selected quality parameters of two tomato varieties, 'Sylviana' (a greenhouse hybrid) and 'Bolseno' (a dual-purpose variety), under a greenhouse environment. The study was conducted in the mid-country wet zone of Sri Lanka where the intensive-control greenhouse (T1) maintained a favourable air temperature (<33°C) for crop growth compared to high daytime temperatures of semi-intensive (T2) and less-intensive (T3) greenhouses (up to 36°C). In 'Bolseno', vegetative growth parameters were significantly affected (P<0.05) by different environments but not in 'Sylviana' (P>0.05). T1 resulted in the highest mean fruit weight and mean fruit diameter in both varieties. Since 'Sylviana' performed well in all three growing environments, the fruit quality was assessed by measuring the antioxidant activity (AOX) and total phenolic content (TPC) using 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and Folin-Ciocalteu method, respectively. Significantly higher AOX (P<0.05) was reported in T1 while T2 had a higher TPC. The results revealed that different tomato genotypes respond differently to changes in micro environmental conditions in terms of growth and some reproductive traits, and the same variety grown in different conditions had different TPC and AOX. [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.)

In the context of rapidly increasing population and diversified market demands, the steady improvement of yield and quality in horticultural crops has become an urgent challenge that modern breeding efforts must tackle. Heterosis, a pivotal theoretical foundation for plant breeding, facilitates the creation of superior hybrids through crossbreeding and selection among a variety of parents. However, the vast number of potential hybrids presents a significant challenge for breeders in efficiently predicting and selecting the most promising candidates. The development and refinement of effective hybrid prediction methods have long been central to research in this field. This article systematically reviews the advancements in hybrid prediction for horticultural crops, including the roles of marker-assisted breeding and genomic prediction in phenotypic forecasting. It also underscores the limitations of some predictors, like genetic distance, which do not consistently offer reliable hybrid predictions. Looking ahead, it explores the integration of phenomics with genomic prediction technologies as a means to elevate prediction accuracy within actual breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit ripening is accompanied by the development of fruit quality traits; however, this process also increases the fruit's susceptibility to various environmental stresses, including pathogen attacks and other stress factors. Therefore, modulating the fruit ripening process and defense responses is crucial for maintaining fruit quality and extending shelf life. Membrane proteins play intricate roles in mediating signal transduction, ion transport, and many other important biological processes, thus attracting extensive research interest. This review mainly focuses on the functions of membrane proteins in regulating fruit ripening and defense responses against biotic and abiotic factors, addresses their potential as targets for improving fruit quality and resistance to environmental challenges, and further highlights some open questions to be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fruit color significantly influences the quality of horticultural crops, which affects phytochemical diversity and consumer preferences. Despite its importance, the genetic basis of the white-colored fruit in tomatoes remains poorly understood. Methods: In this study, we demonstrate that white-fleshed tomato varieties accumulate fewer carotenoids than yellow-fleshed varieties. We developed various segregating populations by hybridizing red, yellow, and white fruit tomato cultivars. Results: Genetic analysis revealed that the white fruit color trait is controlled by a single gene that dominates both red and yellow fruits. Bulk segregant RNA sequencing provided a preliminary map of a 3.17 Mb region on chromosome 3 associated with the white color trait. Based on kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers, we narrowed the candidate gene region to 819 kb. Within this region, we identified a 4906-bp sequence absence variation near Phytoene Synthase 1 (SlPSY1) specific to white-colored tomatoes. Genotyping of the progeny and natural populations using a single nucleotide polymorphism adjacent to this absence of variation confirmed its key role in white fruit formation. Discussion: Collectively, our findings provide insights into white fruit trait formation in tomatoes, enabling tomato breeders to precisely introduce white fruit traits for commercial exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato black scurf caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kühn is widespread worldwide. The exploration and analysis of the infection mechanism of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn has important scientific significance to enhance the disease resistance of potato and other horticultural crops, and then break the restriction of fungal harm to agricultural production. The physiological and biochemical indexes and the expression levels of related genes were measured at 0, 1, 4, 8 and 16 days (T0, T1, T2, T3, T4) after inoculation with pathogenic bacteria. The results showed that the contents of L-phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), peroxidase (POD), lignin, total phenols (TP), and flavonoids increased significantly in potato after infection by Rhizoctonia solani Kühn, with the contents of PAL and POD reaching a peak at 8 d and then decreasing, and the contents of lignin and total phenols changing most significantly, reaching the highest levels at day 8 (T3) and day 16 (T4), respectively. During the infestation, the content of eight phenolic compounds increased, and the genes responsible for the lignin synthesis pathway were upregulated. However, in the later stage of infestation, the expression of two genes (PAL PG0031457 and PG2021549, HCT PG0014959, and COMT PG0011266) was down-regulated. In the correlation analysis, gene expression levels of all the genes, except POD (PG0005062), CCoAOMT (PG0018688), and COMT (PG0011266), were found to be positively correlated with the contents of lignin, total phenols, flavonoids, PAL, POD, and eight phenolic substances. Therefore, based on a sound understanding of the occurrence mechanism of Potato black scurf, this experiment analyzed the effect of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn infestation on the content of relevant metabolites in the lignin synthesis pathway as well as gene expression in potatoes, which provides a scientific basis for the prevention and control management of potato black scurf. Highlights: Increased accumulation of secondary metabolites in potato caused by infection of Rhizoctonia solani Kühn The expression of genes related to lignin synthesis pathway increased rapidly after the potato was infected by Rhizoctonia solani Kühn The activities of potato antioxidant enzymes changed significantly after pathogen infection Lignin synthesis pathway plays an important role in potato response to Rhizoctonia solani Kühn infection [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractScarabs are pests of horticultural crops in the north-western Himalayan regions. However, our current understanding falls short in comprehending the factors driving the population flare-ups of these pests. We investigated the pest population dynamic of Melolontha sp. Fabricius (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) and Polyphylla sikkimensis Brenske (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) by monitoring seven sites using UV traps and damage caused by them in 2017 and 2018. Melolontha furcicauda (Ancey) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) was the most dominant species, followed by Melolontha Cuprescens Blanchard (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) and Melolontha indica Hope (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) and P. sikkimensis. The activity of species peaked in July. The highest Shannon (1.35–1.36), Simpson (0.73–0.74) and Pielou’s evenness indices (0.97–0.98) were recorded at Badagaon in both years. Scarab species from Badagaon and Janjehli were similar in species richness and abundance while Palampur and Sangla were most dissimilar. Melolontha indica and M. furcicauda preferred rose the most and M. cuprescens preferred apple. Maximum damage rate of potato (42.5–47.5%), cabbage (26.2–28.8%) and kidney beans (18.7–20.0%) by P. sikkimensis was recorded at Badagaon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The KT/HAK/KUP is the largest K+ transporter family in plants, playing crucial roles in K+ absorption, transport, and defense against environmental stress. Sweet watermelon is an economically significant horticultural crop belonging to the genus Citrullus, with a high demand for K+ during its growth process. However, a comprehensive analysis of the KT/HAK/KUP gene family in watermelon has not been reported. Results: 14 KT/HAK/KUP genes were identified in the genomes of each of seven Citrullus species. These KT/HAK/KUPs in watermelon were unevenly distributed across seven chromosomes. Segmental duplication is the primary driving force behind the expansion of the KT/HAK/KUP family, subjected to purifying selection during domestication (Ka/Ks < 1), and all KT/HAK/KUPs exhibit conserved motifs and could be phylogenetically classified into four groups. The promoters of KT/HAK/KUPs contain numerous cis-regulatory elements related to plant growth and development, phytohormone response, and stress response. Under K+ deficiency, the growth of watermelon seedlings was significantly inhibited, with cultivated watermelon experiencing greater impacts (canopy width, redox enzyme activity) compared to the wild type. All KT/HAK/KUPs in C. lanatus and C. amarus exhibit specific expression responses to K+-deficiency and drought stress by qRT-PCR. Notably, ClG42_07g0120700/CaPI482276_07g014010 were predominantly expressed in roots and were further induced by K+-deficiency and drought stress. Additionally, the K+ transport capacity of ClG42_07g0120700 under low K+ stress was confirmed by yeast functional complementation assay. Conclusions: KT/HAK/KUP genes in watermelon were systematically identified and analyzed at the pangenome level and provide a foundation for understanding the classification and functions of the KT/HAK/KUPs in watermelon plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet pepper, a globally commercialized horticultural crop, has been demonstrated to impede fat accumulation, but its mechanism remains incompletely understood. This study was designed to explore the potential mechanism of sweet pepper in reducing fat accumulation in Caenorhabditis elegans through RNA‐seq and metabolome analysis. A total of 22 metabolites were identified from sweet pepper by UHPLC‐ESI‐TOF‐MS analysis. In vivo, sweet pepper significantly inhibited α‐glucosidase activity and reduced the levels of glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and the area stained with oil red O. Additionally, it increased body length and the number of head swings in C. elegans compared to the control group. The KEGG enrichment analysis revealed significant enrichment of the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids signaling pathway among the differentially expressed genes and metabolites. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of sterol regulatory element‐binding proteins (SREBPs) ortholog SBP‐1, as well as the stearyl CoA desaturase‐1 (SCD1), including fat‐5, fat‐6, and fat‐7, were significantly decreased after treatment with sweet pepper. Collectively, sweet pepper effectively reduces fat accumulation, which is probably related to downregulating the SREBP‐SCD axis, offering new insights for future functional food development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) has a desirable sweet taste and exotic aroma, making it popular in the markets. However, the biosynthesis of aroma volatiles in litchi fruit has rarely been investigated. In this study, the content and composition of volatile compounds were determined during litchi fruit ripening. In the mature green and mature red stages of litchi, 49 and 45 volatile compounds were detected, respectively. Monoterpenes were found to be the most abundant volatile compounds in mature red fruit, and their contents significantly increased compared to green fruit, mainly including citronellol, geraniol, myrcene, and D‐limonene, which contributed to the aroma in litchi fruit. By comparing the expression profiles of the genes involved in the terpene synthesis pathway during fruit development, a terpene synthesis gene (LcTPS1‐2) was identified and characterized as a major player in the synthesis of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes. A subcellular localization analysis found LcTPS1‐2 to be present in the plastid and cytoplasm. The recombinant LcTPS1‐2 enzyme was able to catalyze the formation of three monoterpenes, myrcene, geraniol and citral, from geranyl pyrophosphate (GPP) and to convert farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to a sesquiterpene, caryophyllene in vitro. Transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana plants overexpressing LcTPS1‐2 exclusively released one monoterpene D‐limonene, and three sesquiterpenes cis‐thujopsene, (E)‐β‐famesene and trans‐β‐ionone. These results indicate that LcTPS1‐2 plays an important role in the production of major volatile terpenes in litchi fruit and provides a basis for future investigations of terpenoid biosynthesis in litchi and other horticultural crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Plant growth media (PGM) play a crucial role in supporting plant growth and development. The choice of high-quality growing media is essential to provide the necessary nutrients and support for optimal plant growth. This study compares the physical and chemical properties of zeoponic with commercial PGMs. Methods: The study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022 at the Cikabayan Education greenhouse, Department of Soil Science and Land Resources, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University. Laboratory analysis of the physical and chemical properties of PGM was conducted with parameters such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC), nutrient content, bulk density, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and base saturation and also plant growth parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf length and leaf width were measured. Result: The results show that zeoponic has a neutral pH, low EC value and high CEC, indicated that the use of zeoponic led to significantly greater plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves, leaf length and leaf width in all types of plants than commercial PGMs. Unique physical and chemical properties in zeoponic create an ideal environment for root development and nutrient absorption. Therefore, zeoponic demonstrates superior performance as a PGM for various plant types, including horticultural crops and seedlings, outperforming commonly available commercial PGM in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Exogenous melatonin (MT) can promote horticultural crops growth under stress conditions. Methods: In this study, the effects of exogenous MT on the accumulation of selenium (Se) in grape were studied under Se stress. Results and discussion: Under Se stress, exogenous MT increased the biomass, content of photosynthetic pigments and antioxidant enzyme activity of grapevines. Compared with Se treatment, MT increased the root biomass, shoot biomass, chlorophyll a content, chlorophyll b content, carotenoids, superoxide dismutase activity, and peroxidase activity by 18.11%, 7.71%, 25.70%, 25.00%, 25.93%, 5.73%, and 9.41%, respectively. Additionally, MT increased the contents of gibberellin, auxin, and MT in grapevines under Se stress, while it decreased the content of abscisic acid. MT increased the contents of total Se, organic Se and inorganic Se in grapevines. Compared with Se treatment, MT increased the contents of total Se in the roots and shoots by 48.82% and 135.66%, respectively. A transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that MT primarily regulated the cellular, metabolic, and bioregulatory processes of grapevine under Se stress, and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily enriched in pathways, such as aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, spliceosome, and flavonoid biosynthesis. These involved nine DEGs and nine metabolic pathways in total. Moreover, a field experiment showed that MT increased the content of Se in grapes and improved their quality. Therefore, MT can alleviate the stress of Se in grapevines and promote their growth and the accumulation of Se. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Red and blue light have significant effects on plant growth; however, most of the current studies have focused on common horticultural crops such as cucumber and tomato, and there are fewer studies on how red and blue light affect the growth of melon seedlings. Therefore, in this study, we used melon (Cucumis melo L.) as the experimental material to investigate the effects of red and blue light ratios on the photomorphogenesis and photosynthesis of melon seedlings. Five red and blue light ratios were set at a fixed light intensity 200 μmol·m−2·s−1, including R:B = 1:9, R:B = 3:7, R:B = 1:1, R:B = 7:3, and R:B = 9:1. The results showed that with the increase in red light ratios, melon seedling height, stem diameter, total leaf area and stomatal pore size of melon seedlings increased, while the upper epidermis, palisade tissue, spongy tissue, leaf thickness, and stomatal density showed a decreasing trend. Under the R:B = 7:3 treatment, melon seedlings were optimized in all morphological indexes and had higher photosynthetic efficiency; these results indicated that the growth of melon seedlings could be regulated by adjusting the ratio of red to blue light, thus promoting the morphogenesis of melon seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the world grapples with the escalating threat of global warming, exploring sustainable agricultural practices has become imperative. Carbon sequestration is one such efficient method to mitigate carbon emissions and reduce global warming. Among the numerous sequestration options, terrestrial methods, notably via horticultural crops, have enormous potential. Horticultural crops, which encompass a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, plantations, and ornamental plants, offer a unique chance to sequester a considerable amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide. In particular, perennial horticultural systems provide numerous benefits over annual crops, such as increased productivity, reduced water and input requirements, and higher economic returns via carbon credits. However, the transition from annual to perennial crops presents logistical and financial challenges. The carbon sequestration capacity of plantations and horticulture crops is larger, at 16.4 Gt C, compared to the agroforestry system, which is at 6.3 Gt C. In order to fully use this capacity, it is essential to employ effective carbon management systems. These methods include growing higher biomass, recycling agricultural waste, employing animal manure, switching to perennial crops, adopting crop rotation, and encouraging agroforestry systems. Although there are advantages, substantial initial investments and continuous management are required to ensure effectiveness, and these demands might hinder widespread acceptance. This review emphasizes the critical role of horticulture systems in improving soil carbon levels, soil organic matter dynamics, different forms of carbon, and their overall potential for carbon sequestration. By unlocking the potential of horticultural crops to sequester carbon, we can help minimize atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, lessen the impact of climate change, and ensure nutritional security and economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enhancing the efficacy of biofertilizers and biopesticides for horticultural applications presents numerous challenges, given the need to balance effectiveness with environmental and economic factors. Achieving these goals requires rigorous research into advanced technologies and formulations capable of effectively replacing or complementing traditional chemical inputs, without compromising crop yield or quality. The present study aimed to develop a versatile and yet accessible hybrid percolation–sonication system and method, designed to optimize polyphenol extraction from nettle and sage plants. The resulting extracts were combined and applied on organic tomato crops, to evaluate their biofertilizer and biopesticide effectiveness, in comparison to conventional chemical inputs. Operating the equipment in a hybrid percolation–sonication system led to a 36% increase in polyphenols extraction for nettle and a 29% increase from sage. Regarding the effect on tomatoes, data showed that plants treated with biofertilizer extracts were over 42.88% more productive than control samples and 17.67% more productive than tomatoes treated with chemical fertilizers. Tomato plants treated with biofertilizers grew approximately 10% taller and developed stems that were 5% thicker compared to those treated with chemical fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to examine the growth performance of organic farming in India. The current study is based on secondary data collected from different sources, including the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP), and others. Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR), mean, and Coefficient of Variation (CV) have been used to analyse the data. The results of the study indicate that the total area under production, amount of organic goods produced, and export of organic products are increasing. The value of export has increased over the previous sixteen years from 498 cr. in 2007 to 5525.18 cr. in 2022, at a compound annual rate of 16.23 percent. Indian organic farming achieved a record output of different food grains and commercial and horticultural crops, proving resilience and delivering quality food security. The conditions for developing sustainable and organic agriculture are improving day by day in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cashless and recent Naira redesign policy in Nigeria caused untold hardship to the people due to scarcity of the banknotes, as the CBN was unable to meet the peoples' demand. This led to a cash crisis in the rural and urban areas of the country, with long queues at banks and ATMs. The development triggered frustration and climaxed into grievance protests among bank users. In view of these, a survey was conducted to analyze the impacts of this policy on horticultural crop business in Kano State, Nigeria. Using a multi-stage sampling technique, data from 160 respondents were collected through structured interviews and on-site assessments to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the policy's impact on the people, while the sampling technique ensured that both urban and rural horticultural activities were represented. Findings revealed that ornamental gardens in the urban areas benefited from market advantages, while rural fruit orchards faced significant challenges due to the policy changes. Horticultural crops had markets not only within but also outside the state, and the neighbouring and other foreign countries. The transition from cash-based to cashless transactions led to significant disruptions in horticultural supply chains, with noticeable declines in distribution efficiency. This gross deficit undermined its contributions to economic growth, with key issues recognized as low managerial skills, lack of access to modern technology, poor funding and deplorable business environment. Massive campaigns on the necessity of the cashless policy amidst the current global context, the need to strengthen the performance of the SMEs with enhanced business environment, improvement in financial inclusion, and increasing access to modern technology were reccommended as sustsainable insulators in future policy-induced or natural calamities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Scientific Journal of Agricultural Sciences (SJAS) is the property of Beni Suef University 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.)

Drip irrigation is crucial in the current agricultural scenario for vegetable crops, as it optimizes water use efficiency by delivering precise amounts of water directly to the plant roots, thereby conserving water resources and enhancing crop yields. Yield enhancement in cucumber, a significant horticultural crop, can be achieved by integrating drip irrigation and plastic mulching to maximize water productivity while minimizing losses. In the current consequences, a field study was conducted from November to December in two consecutive years (2021-2022 and 2022-23) at the experimental field of Precision Farming Development Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, India. The study aimed to quantify the irrigation water requirements for cucumber using drip irrigation and plastic mulch. Eight treatments with varying irrigation levels and the use of plastic mulch were assessed in a randomized block design with three replications. The crop's irrigation water requirement was determined using the FAO-56 Penman-Monteith model. The results showed that the highest plant height (193.5 cm), number of leaves (43.3), fruit length (18.5), fruit weight (279.0 g), and cucumber yield (15.9 t/ha) were achieved with 100% irrigation water requirement along with plastic mulch during the first and second season. These results were closely followed by treatments with 80% of the crop water requirement using drip irrigation and plastic mulch. The study concluded that applying 80% of the estimated irrigation water (142.1 mm) using drip irrigation and plastic mulch could be recommended to obtain higher productivity in cucumber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Far-red lights (FRs), with a wavelength range between 700 and 800 nm, have substantial impacts on plant growth, especially horticultural crops. Previous studies showed conflicting results on the effects of FRs on vegetable growth and quality. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis on the influence of FRs on vegetable growth, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of their effects on the growth and nutritional indicators of vegetables. A total of 207 independent studies from 55 literature sources were analyzed. The results showed that FR treatment had significant effects on most growth indicators, including increasing the fresh weight (+25.27%), dry weight (+21.99%), plant height (+81.87%), stem diameter (+12.91%), leaf area (+18.57%), as well as reducing the content of chlorophyll (−11.88%) and soluble protein (−11.66%), while increasing soluble sugar content (+19.12%). Further subgroup analysis based on various factors revealed significant differences in the effects of FR on different physiological indicators, such as FR intensity, plant species, duration of FR exposure, and the ratio of red light to FR. In general, moderate FR treatment is beneficial for vegetable growth. This study provides important references and guidelines for optimizing the application of FR in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biostimulants are a new category of materials that improve crop productivity by maximizing their natural abilities. Out of these biostimulants, those that increase seed production are considered to be particularly important as they contribute directly to the increase in the yield of cereals and legumes. Ergothioneine (EGT) is a natural, non-protein amino acid with antioxidant effects that is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods. However, EGT has not been used in agriculture. This study investigated the effect of EGT on seed productivity in Arabidopsis thaliana. Compared with an untreated control, the application of EGT increased the seed yield by 66%. However, EGT had no effect on seed yield when applied during or after bolting and did not promote the growth of vegetative organs. On the other hand, both the number of flowers and the transcript levels of FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), a key gene involved in flowering, were increased significantly by the application of EGT. The results suggest that EGT improves seed productivity by increasing flower number through the physiological effects of the FT protein. Furthermore, the beneficial effect of EGT on flower number is expected to make it a potentially useful biostimulant not only in crops where seeds are harvested, but also in horticultural crops such as ornamental flowering plants, fruits, vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To support growth, short-cycle horticultural crops require readily available nutrients. However, this often leads to nutrient leaching. Implementing best management practices in production decisions like incorporating fertilizer retaining amendments to substrates or modifying fertilization programs can mitigate nutrient losses to the environment and associated costs. This study examined using an activated aluminum (AA) material as a substrate amendment to retain phosphorus (P) within containers while also assessing methods to reduce P fertilization in Tagetes production over a six-week production cycle. A commercial peat moss substrate (PL) pre-loaded with nutrients was amended with AA, enabling comparisons between substrates with and without AA. Enhanced fertilizer practices involved supplementing the initial nutrients by applying a weekly fertigation solution including nitrogen and potassium over the six weeks, but P for either 0, 2, 4, or 6 weeks. The incorporation of AA significantly reduced P leaching losses by 89.5–97.7%, compared to the PL substrates receiving P the entire six weeks. Regardless of substrate or fertilizer management, all Tagetes had equivalent sizes (growth index) and aboveground biomass. The results indicate that amending substrates with AA and/or reducing additional P inputs are effective strategies to minimize P leaching without compromising Tagetes quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of invasive plants is a challenge when using traditional control methods, which are ineffective for large areas, leading to the abandonment of invaded areas and the subsequent worsening of the situation. Finding potential uses for waste resulting from invaders' management could motivate their control in the long-term, concurrently providing new bio-based resources with different applications. Oxalis pes-caprae is an invasive plant, widely distributed worldwide, which spreads aggressively through bulbils, creating a dense ground cover. This study was designed to assess the potential of Oxalis aboveground waste for use as fertilizer and in ameliorating deficit irrigation effects in growing crops. Diplotaxis tenuifolia (wild rocket) seedlings were planted in pots with soil mixed with Oxalis waste at 0, 2.2 and 4.3 kg m−2 or with commercial fertilizer, left to grow for 27 days and then irrigated at 100% or 50% field capacity for 14 days. The incorporation of the Oxalis waste improved the biomass, photosynthesis, sugars, total phenols and total antioxidant capacity in the crop, achieving commercial fertilization values, as well as increasing the phosphorus in soils. However, Oxalis waste seems not to directly affect plants' relative water contents. Our results support the use of Oxalis waste as fertilizer, which can encourage the long-term control of this invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences is the property of Editorial Board of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences 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.)

Cd (cadmium) is a highly toxic heavy metal pollutant often present in soil and detrimentally impacting the production and quality of horticultural crops. Cd affects various physiological and biochemical processes in plants, including chlorophyll synthesis, photosynthesis, mineral uptake and accumulation, and hormonal imbalance, leading to cell death. The MYB family of transcription factors plays a significant role in plant response to environmental influences. However, the role of MYB116 in abiotic stress tolerance remains unclear. In this study, we reported that Chinese cabbage transcription factor BrMYB116 enhanced Cd stress tolerance in yeast. The expression level of BrMYB116 was increased by Cd stress in Chinese cabbage. Additionally, yeast cells overexpressing BrMYB116 showed improved Cd stress tolerance and reduced Cd accumulation. Moreover, we found that BrMYB116 interacted with facilitator of iron transport (FIT3) to enhance Cd stress tolerance. ChIP-qPCR results showed that ScFIT3 was activated through specific binding to its promoter. Additionally, the overexpression of ScFIT3 induced Cd stress tolerance and reduced Cd accumulation in yeast and Chinese cabbage. These results suggest new avenues for plant genomic modification to mitigate Cd toxicity and enhance the safety of vegetable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractLeopard moth Zeuzera multistrigata (Lepidoptera: Cossidae) is a xylophagous insect whose larval stages are cryptic woodborers in apple and many other horticultural and forestry crops. The present study was carried out to test effectiveness of some biocontrol agents along with most effective pesticide against this pest on apple (cv. Royal Delicious) in Himachal Pradesh, India, for three consecutive years by injecting biocontrol agents/chemicals directly into galleries made by pest larvae. Investigations were conducted to observe the effect of Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, Steinernemma feltiae, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora and azadirachtin along with a synthetic pesticide chlorpyriphos. The application of chlorpyriphos (0.04%) caused a 100%%larval mortality, whereas among the biocontrol agents H. bacteriophora (5000 IJs/gallery) exhibited the highest mortality of 66.7 to 80.0%% during these three years, which was significantly at par with application of azadirachtin (Neem baan) 1500 ppm @ 2 ml/Litre and S. feltiae @ 5000 IJs/gallery. The lowest mortality (33.3%) was observed with B. bassiana (5 g/Litre) for the first two years and with M. anisopliae (5 g/L) in the third year i.e. 40.0%. Application of entomopathogenic nematode H. bacteriophora (5000 IJs/gallery) is proven to be best among all biocontrol agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the molecular mechanisms underlying pollen tube growth in pear trees. The researchers focused on the role of flavonoids, a group of plant secondary metabolites, in regulating pollen development and growth. They identified a specific gene, PbrF3H, that is involved in flavonoid biosynthesis and found that it is regulated by a transcription factor called PbrMYB186. Knockdown experiments showed that both PbrF3H and PbrMYB186 are essential for flavonoid production and pollen tube growth. The study provides insights into the regulatory network of flavonoids in pear pollen tubes. [Extracted from the article]

Banana (Musa spp.) is one of the most economically important horticultural crops. There are many types of banana, with differing ploidy (usually diploid, triploid, or tetraploid) and genome types (most containing the A or/and B genome). Currently, observation and genome type detection are commonly used to identify banana germplasm resources. However, observation is tedious, while genome type detection cannot distinguish categories below genome types. It is, therefore, urgent to establish a simple and effective method for identifying banana germplasm resources. This study sequenced and analyzed the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences of 62 banana germplasm resources and found that the sequencing peaks, especially the 20 bp region near the 420-bp position (referred to as the 420-bp region), exhibited relatively recognizable and repeatable polymorphism characteristics. Using the 420-bp region as a marker, we were able to quickly distinguish bananas belonging to different genome type groups or different subgroups in the same genome type group. Moreover, it appeared that Sanger sequencing of ITS could be used to identify hybrid banana offspring. In general, ITS sequencing simplifies the classification of banana germplasm resources and has potential application in several areas of Musa improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This paper investigates the horticulture crop value chain in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. It focuses on the different approaches to marketing used in Vidarbha and makes note of the fact that just 1 out of 10 farmers choose the farm-to-table model. Methods: A survey was conducted in order to gather the primary data employing a simple random sampling method. The survey was undertaken in four districts viz., Nagpur, Amravati, Bhandara and Wardha. The crops under investigation were banana, mango, lemon, orange/mandarin, tomato, potato and onion. Result: It was recorded that the projected amount of produce wasted was the highest at the retail level for tomato, potato, banana and mango crops, at the farm level for lemon and orange and at the wholesale level for onion. Moreover, the harvested crops are not properly stored until delivered due to lack of storage facilities. Farmers received less price due to low quality of produce and exploitation by the middlemen. At the farm level, it was recorded that 15-36% of the yield is lost due to pests/predators, unprecedented weather conditions and improper management. The supply chain faces several issues, including the scarcity of high-quality seeds, a lack of irrigation resources, unfavourable weather that ruins the produce, post-harvest losses, lack of storage facilities, price seasonality and market volatility. Numerous vertical coordination problems in the value chain could be resolved by the adoption of horticulture cooperatives and the creation of FPOs (Farmer Producer Organisations). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is an invasive pest on coconut and other horticultural crops. An indigenous nymphal parasitoid, Encarsia guadeloupae Viggiani (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), is found to co-exist as a promising natural enemy of A. rugioperculatus. The bacterial community associated with whiteflies was reported to influence the parasitism efficiency of different parasitoids. Hence, the present investigation was carried out to test the role of the associated bacterial community of A. rugioperculatus on the parasitic efficiency of E. guadeloupae through the antibiotic-curing method. The identity of the test insects viz., A. rugioperculatus and E. guadeloupae were confirmed using the mtCOI gene before carrying out the investigation. The parasitization efficiency of E. guadeloupae was recorded on symbiotic (untreated) and antibiotic-treated A. rugioperculatus nymphal stages reared on four host plants viz., coconut, banana, sapota, and guava. The antibiotics Carbenicillin @ 100 µg ml− 1 and Ciprofloxacin @ 5 µg ml− 1 were combined and fed to A. rugioperculatus adults by parafilm feeding chamber method to eliminate the possible cultivable bacteria. The results revealed the complete elimination of cultivable bacteria in the F4 generation, and hence, the F4, F5, and F6A. rugioperculatus populations were tested for their susceptibility to parasitization by E. guadeloupae. Higher parasitism (74.70%), lower emergence rate (59.70%), and longer developmental time (21.00 days) of E. guadeloupae were observed in the antibiotic-treated population than in untreated A. rugioperculatus population of the F6 generation. Elimination of bacterial symbionts through antibiotic treatment might have suppressed the immunity and nutritional status of the whiteflies and led to more susceptibility toward parasitoid attack, poor parasitoid emergence and longer developmental time of E. guadeloupae on antibiotic-treated A. rugioperculatus. Our investigation revealed that antibiotic curing of bacterial symbionts associated with host insects had a minimal impact on the parasitic efficiency of E. guadeloupae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bactrocera dorsalis is a pest that attacks horticultural fruit crops, especially oranges. Controlling the fruit fly pests can be done by engineering the blog refugia habitat which attracts the arrival of natural enemies. Therefore, it can stabilize the ecosystem and more sustainable for the environment. The aim of this research is to analyzing the application of habitat engineering to the B. dorsalis fruit fly population and natural enemy diversity, analyzing fruit fly population fluctuations. This research was conducted on two Orange Groves in Krajan Hamlet, Sumbersekar Village, Dau District, Malang Regency. The method used in this research was a survey method, the natural enemy diversity sampling method was carried out visually (visual encounter survey) with 3 observations with a time span of 08.00-10.00 WIB (morning), 12.00-14.00 (afternoon), and 15.00-17.00 (afternoon). Analysis of fluctuations in the dynamics of the B. dorsalis population was carried out by comparing the population abundance every week for 10 observations with the rainfall factor at the time of observation. The significance of the real difference test for fruit fly fluctuations in orange orchards was tested using the T test, using SPSS software. B. dorsalis fruit flies were collected using petrogenol traps, then identified. The results showed an increase in the diversity of natural enemies in the 2 orange groves planted with refugia. Rainfall, abiotic factors and host plants influenced fluctuations in fruit fly populations. At station 2, rainfall influenced the rise and fall of the fruit fly population, while at station 1 rainfall had no effect, but adjusted to the conditions of abiotic factors in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xylella fastidiosa has been identified as the causal agent of several horticultural plant diseases that have resulted in major economic and cultural heritage losses. In the last decade, X. fastidiosa emerged as a destructive phytopathogen on olive trees in the Apulia region, Italy, prompting widespread surveillance throughout the Mediterranean basin. The present paper reports monitoring efforts for X. fastidiosa in Palestine on olive for 5 years (2017–2022) and 1 year (2022) on stone fruit trees, as a result of international collaboration projects. No signs of olive quick decline syndrome were observed on olive trees in all the Palestinian olive‐growing lands. This observation was confirmed by molecular tests using LAMP technology and PCR. In addition, 500 leaf samples from stone fruit trees (almond, apricot, peach, nectarine and plum) were tested using LAMP and PCR. All of these samples were negative for X. fastidiosa, even though few of the samples from almond trees in Idna (Hebron governorate) and apricot trees in Bal'a (Tulkarm governorate) showed leaf scorch‐like symptoms. This study provides confirmation that these important horticultural crops in Palestine (olive and stone fruits) are still free of X. fastidiosa. Preventive measures and surveillance of these and other horticultural crops such as grapevine and citrus trees are strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperature stress poses a significant challenge to the productivity of horticultural crops. The dynamic expression of cold‐responsive genes plays a crucial role in plant cold tolerance. While NAC transcription factors have been extensively studied in plant growth and development, their involvement in regulating plant cold tolerance remains poorly understood. In this study, we focused on the identification and characterisation of SlNAC3 as the most rapid and robust responsive gene in tomato under low temperature conditions. Manipulating SlNAC3 through overexpression or silencing resulted in reduced or enhanced cold tolerance, respectively. Surprisingly, we discovered a negative correlation between the expression of CBF and cold tolerance in the SlNAC3 transgenic lines. These findings suggest that SlNAC3 regulates tomato cold tolerance likely through a CBF‐independent pathway. Furthermore, we conducted additional investigations to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying SINAC3‐mediated cold tolerance in tomatoes. Our results revealed that SlNAC3 controls the transcription of ethylene biosynthetic genes, thereby bursting ethylene release in response to cold stress. Indeed, the silencing of these genes led to an augmentation in cold tolerance. This discovery provides valuable insights into the regulatory pathways involved in ethylene‐mediated cold tolerance in tomatoes, offering potential strategies for developing innovative approaches to enhance cold stress resilience in this economically important crop species. Summary statement: We discovered that SlNAC3 as the most rapid and robust responsive gene in tomato under cold stress. Furthermore, we discovered the molecular mechanisms underlying SlNAC3 controls the transcription of ethylene biosynthetic genes, thereby bursting ethylene release in response to cold stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article introduces the Special Issue on horticultural production systems. Topics include the effects of abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, extreme temperatures, and heavy metal contamination on horticultural crops, recent advancements in understanding plant responses to these stresses, and innovative strategies for improving crop resilience through soil and water management, agronomic practices, and biostimulants.

Dianthus cruentus Griseb. (Caryophyllaceae) is an herbaceous perennial native to Greece with a strong ornamental potential when used as a pollinator-friendly component of xeric gardens and green roofs, where it is valued for its tolerance of poor, dry soils, and its showy colorful inflorescences. Aiming to develop an efficient mass propagation protocol appropriate for the introduction of the species as a novel floricultural crop, the in vitro seed and clonal propagation of a Greek native xeric ecotype were investigated in this paper for the first time. A total of 90–100% of the seeds, after being stored in the dark at room temperature for 12 months, germinated when incubated at 10 to 25 °C after their surface sterilization and transfer in vitro. Sixty-day-old seedlings grown in vitro were then used as a source of nodal explants for the initial establishment of micropropagation cultures, more efficiently on MS medium with 0.1 mg L−1 6-benzylaminopurine (BA). In the multiplication stage, either normal or hyperhydric micro-shoots were used as explant sources, assessing the possibility of incorporating usually discarded material in the propagation procedure. Different solid media were tested, with the highest multiplication indices (5.1) recorded in an MS medium containing 0.1 mg L−1 BA and 0.05 mg L−1 NAA, regardless of explants' hyperhydricity, while an MS medium containing 0.1 mg L−1 BA and 12 g L−1 agar proved optimal for the effective reversal of hyperhydric explants (MI: 5.2). Despite higher hyperhydricity and reaction rates being observed when hyperhydric explants were used, modifications in the multiplication medium proved to be highly effective in controlling hyperhydricity, with the highest number of normal shoots (2.4–2.6) produced in BA-containing media. Micro-shoots rooted readily in ½ MS medium (60–100%), with rooting rates and quality positively affected by the presence of 0.5 mg L−1 IBA in the rooting medium and the absence of cytokinins in the multiplication one. Rooted micro-shoots were successfully acclimatized ex vitro at high rates (65–100%), their origin influencing their acclimatization and morphology. Thus, the concurrent use of normal and hyperhydric shoots in the proposed micropropagation protocol is proven to be both feasible and desirable, as it is able to significantly increase efficiency and facilitate the sustainable exploitation and dissemination of D. cruentus as a promising multivalent horticultural crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic changes and global warming affect the growth, development, and productivity of crops. In this review, we highlight the possible benefits of using innovative breeding techniques like clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs), exogenous phytohormone-like strigolactones (SLs), nanomaterials (NMs), and beneficial microbial endophytes to address the challenges in sustainable cultivation of horticultural crops. These applications are evaluated by examining how they affect different metabolic, morphological, and biochemical parameters in diverse crops. Endophytes are symbiotic microorganisms and can be used as nematicides for improving crop yield. With an emphasis on quality control, we examined the impacts of applying NMs, a novel family of phytohormones called SLs, and microbial endophytes on horticultural commodities. Furthermore, we reviewed the benefits of CRISPR for the editing of plant genomes, as well as how it affects gene expression and transcription factors to increase crop tolerance and yield. These innovations hold the potential to improve crop yield, quality, and resilience by acting as safe, natural components in biofertilizers and plant protection solutions. Gradually adopting these methods could decrease reliance on agrochemicals, thereby reducing their negative effects on biodiversity, soil fertility, and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sterol side-chain reductase 2 (SSR2) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of plant cholesterol pathway. Despite the importance of watermelon as a horticultural cash crop, the SSR2 gene in watermelon has not been previously studied or reported. Results: In this study, 28 SSR2 genes were identified in the watermelon genome. The physicochemical properties of 28 ClaSSR proteins were predicted by bioinformatics methods, and the gene structure, conserved motif, chromosome localization, phylogenetic analysis, cis-acting elements, expression patterns, promoter activity analysis and subcellular localization of ClaSSRs were studied. The 28 ClaSSRs were unevenly distributed on 11 chromosomes, and phylogenetic analysis showed that they could be grouped into 4 groups with other related Cucurbitaceae homologous genes. Analysis of gene structure and motifs revealed similarities in exons/introns and motifs between members of the same group, further supporting phylogenetic results. The RT–qPCR results showed variations in ClaSSRs expression during watermelon fruit development. The analysis of promoter activity for ClaSSR25 showed strong activity. Subcellular localization studies confirmed that ClaSSR25 is mainly located in the cytoplasm, which aligns with the predicted outcomes. We additionally estimated the network of protein–protein interactions for ClaSSR25 and analyzed proteins that could potentially interact with ClaSSR25 in melon and Arabidopsis thaliana. Conclusions: We conducted bioinformatics analysis and expression analysis of members of the watermelon SSR2 gene family in this work, and the outcomes set the stage for further investigations into the watermelon SSR2 gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of plastic materials and their improper disposal results in high amounts of plastic waste in the environment. Aging of plastics leads to their breakdown into smaller particles, such as microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics. This research investigates plastics used in agricultural practices as they contribute to MP pollution in agricultural soils. The distribution and characteristics of MPs in agricultural soils were evaluated. In addition, the effect of MPs on soil properties, the relationship between MPs and metals in soil, the effect of MPs on the fate of pesticides in agricultural soils and the influence of MPs on plant growth were analysed, discussing legume, cereal and vegetable crops. Finally, a brief description of the main methods of chemical analysis and identification of MPs is presented. This study will contribute to a better understanding of MPs in agricultural soils and their effect on the soil-plant system. The changes induced by MPs in soil parameters can lead to potential benefits as it is possible to increase the availability of micronutrients and reduce plant uptake of toxic elements. Furthermore, although plastic pollution remains an emerging threat to soil ecosystems, their presence may result in benefits to agricultural soils, highlighting the principles of the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Phenacoccus solenopsis is a pest of many agricultural and horticultural crops, causing considerable losses in Asia and other parts of the world. Managing P. solenopsis is challenging due to a waxy covering body and high reproductive potentiality. This study was aimed to explore the potential use of wax-degrading bacteria isolated from fermented Ficus extract against P. solenopsis. Methodology and results: A total of ten isolates of wax-degrading bacteria were isolated from fermented Ficus extract (Ficus FPE) using a selective medium, Davis minimal agar (DMA), which was enriched with mealybug wax. The waxdegrading ability of the bacteria was evaluated through a turbidimetry test using 2, 6-dichlorophenol indophenol (DCPIP). Bacillus sp. 42PB3 demonstrated the highest wax-degrading potential, with 64.78% mealybug wax degraded and 73.85% paraffin wax degraded. The bioassay was conducted with three bacterial concentrations (108, 107 and 106) tested against third-instar nymphs of P. solenopsis on Hibiscus rosa-sinensis by top application technique in completely randomized design (CRD) design with ten replications. The cell suspension and supernatant of Klebsiella pneumonia, Paenibacillus sp. 21F1E3, Bacillus sp. 35F1C1 and Bacillus sp. 42F1B3 isolates caused 70-83% and 60-66% mortality (supernatant) after 168 h post-treatment. Klebsiella pneumonia badly affected the offspring production of the treated mealybug with the lowest number of crawlers (80.2), followed by Paenibacillus sp. 21F1E3 isolate (111). Conclusion, significance and impact of study: In the present study, all tested bacteria isolated from fermented Ficus extract showed varying levels of wax-degrading ability and insecticidal activity against P. solenopsis. These bacterial isolates show promise as an environmentally friendly biocidal agent for managing P. solenopsis, potentially curbing crop losses and ensuring food quality through sustainable pest management practices in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Economics & Social Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Thermoinhibition refers to the inability of seeds to germinate when inhibited by high temperatures, but when environmental conditions return to normal, the seeds are able to germinate rapidly again, which is different from thermodormancy. Meanwhile, with global warming, the effect of the thermoinhibition phenomenon on the yield and quality of crops in agricultural production is becoming common. Lettuce, as a horticultural crop sensitive to high temperature, is particularly susceptible to the effects of thermoinhibition, resulting in yield reduction. Therefore, it is crucial to elucidate the intrinsic mechanism of action of thermoinhibition in lettuce seeds. This review mainly outlines several factors affecting thermoinhibition of lettuce seed germination, including endosperm hardening, alteration of endogenous or exogenous phytohormone concentrations, action of photosensitizing pigments, production and inhibition of metabolites, maternal effects, genetic expression, and other physical and chemical factors. Finally, we also discuss the challenges and potential of lettuce seed germination thermoinhibition research. The purpose of this study is to provide theoretical support for future research on lettuce seed germination thermoinhibition, and with the aim of revealing the mechanisms and effects behind lettuce seed thermoinhibition. This will enable the identification of more methods to alleviate seed thermoinhibition or the development of superior heat-tolerant lettuce seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a widely cultivated horticultural crop. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is known for its high concentration of essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties. The Mediterranean countries, including Italy, Spain, and Greece, have a diverse range of tomato landraces. Assessing the nutritional and bioactive composition of different tomato varieties and their ripening stages is crucial to determine their suitability for the market. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ripening on nutritional composition (including carotenoids and polyphenols content) and antioxidant activities of fruits of three specific tomato varieties grown in Spain: Josefina and Karelya, which are cherry-like tomatoes, and Muchamiel, a type of salad tomato. In addition to evaluating their characteristics and composition (including carotenoids and polyphenol content), the antioxidant activities of these varieties at three different ripening stages were quantified. As expected, the results reveal that, as the tomatoes matured, their antioxidant capacity increased along with higher levels of carotenoids and polyphenols. Interestingly, cherry-like tomatoes showed a higher antioxidant activity than the salad tomatoes. This investigation emphasizes the role of fruit ripening in increasing carotenoid levels, which contribute to the antioxidant activity of three tomato varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food security is a pressing global concern, particularly highlighted by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2), which focuses on enhancing the productivity and incomes of smallholder farmers. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, horticultural crops are increasingly threatened by pests and diseases, exacerbated by climate change. Local farmers often lack the necessary expertise to effectively manage these issues, resulting in significant reductions in both yield and quality of their crops. This study seeks to develop an accessible mobile crop diagnosis application. By utilizing machine learning and deep learning technologies, the app is designed to help MENA farmers quickly and accurately identify and treat crop disorders. We used Open Data Kit (ODK) to gather a large dataset of crop images required to train deep learning models. These models, built on open-source deep learning architectures, were designed to classify 21 different leaf disorders, including diseases, pests, and nutritional deficiencies. The system was implemented in both a web app and an Android mobile app. Our deep learning models demonstrated an overall accuracy of 94 % in diagnosing plant disorders. The app, Doctor Nabat, includes a decision support system that offers treatment options in the three primary languages spoken in the MENA region. Doctor Nabat is an effective and scalable tool for enhancing crop management in the MENA region, promoting food security by minimizing crop losses through improved pest and disease diagnosis and treatment strategies.