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Humic acid, as a novel organic fertilizer, has the potential to improve soil fertility and the agronomic performance of crops. However, the efficacy of humic acid varied in previous studies and the mechanisms by which climatic conditions, soil properties, and fertilization regimes regulate it remain unclear. To test this, a comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effects of humic acid across various environmental and agricultural conditions. The results showed that the humic acid amendment significantly increased the crop yield by 12%, nitrogen use efficiency by 27%, and nitrogen uptake by 17%, on average. Optimal effects were observed in regions with an annual precipitation > 300 mm and mean annual temperatures > 10 °C, and in soils with a moderate pH (6 < pH ≤ 8) or low total nitrogen. Its efficacy was attenuated in alkaline soils and high total nitrogen (≤1.5 g kg⁻1) or low soil organic carbon (<10 g kg⁻1) conditions. Cash crops and upland cereals showed a superior response compared to paddy rice, with optimal nitrogen application rates of 100–200 kg ha⁻1. This study quantifies humic acid's positive impacts on crop productivity and nitrogen utilization across various conditions, providing empirical evidence for optimizing its application in sustainable agricultural systems, potentially reducing excessive fertilizer use and its associated environmental pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Edamame is a vegetable soybean (Glycine max) that is harvested at the R6 growth stage. Although it is relatively new to America, the acreage and market demand of edamame have steadily increased. Developing new cultivars that are more adapted to local environments and crop management systems is significantly important to promoting specialty crop production and meeting the market requirements. In this study, 10 edamame breeding lines and four check cultivars were evaluated during 2020-23 to determine the potential production in the southeastern United States. Among genotypes, there were significant differences in the fresh pod and mature seed yields and agronomic and seed composition traits that were investigated. The year effects and genotype × year interactions were also significant in most cases. Fresh pod and mature seed yields were not significantly correlated with most of other agronomic traits and seed compositions. Over 4 years, the fresh pod yield averaged 11,227.5 kg·ha21 (range, 9800.1-13,154.3 kg·ha-1), and the mature seed yield averaged 2814.7 kg·ha-1 (range, 2029.2-3175.2 kg·ha-1). The average 100-seed weight of 14 genotypes was 26.9 g (range, 23.1-30.1 g), and the average seed size of nine breeding lines was larger than that of the check. Maturity occurred on average 153.3 days after planting (range, 147.1-159.5 days). Based on dry weight, seed protein, oil, and sucrose contents had averages of 43.5%, 18.7%, and 5.0%, respectively. The estimates of broad-sense heritability were medium to high (66.82%-94.90%) for most of the traits, whereas the heritability estimates for fresh pod yield and duration from flowering to maturity were relatively low (23.44%-42.29%). Several breeding lines exhibited good yield, larger seed size, and higher contents of protein, oil, and oleic acid, suggesting the potential of release and commercial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rye (Secale cereale L.), a close relative of common wheat, represents a valuable genetic resource for enhancing the disease resistance of common wheat. Introducing novel rye-derived genes into wheat can potentially improve disease resistance. In this study, we successfully developed a novel wheat-rye derivative line LCR4 through hybridization between hexaploid triticale line Currency and common wheat cultivar Jimai 22 (JM22). We confirmed that LCR4 was a T2DS·2DL-2RL translocation line via comprehensive molecular cytogenetic analyses, including genomic in situ hybridization, multi-color fluorescence in situ hybridization, molecular marker analysis, and wheat SNP-arrays genotyping. Notably, upon inoculation with Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) race V26 at the seedling stage and mixed Pst races at the adult stage, LCR4 exhibited robust resistance against stripe rust infection at both stages. Subsequent genetic analysis further elucidated that the translocated 2RL chromosome segment is responsible for this resistance. Consequently, LCR4 harboring elite agronomic traits can be effectively employed in breeding programs against stripe rust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NHX1 gene encodes a Na+/H+ antiporter located in the tonoplast membrane, which plays critical role in regulating plant salt tolerance. It is also involved in the uptake and accumulation of K in plants; however, its precise mechanism is unknown. In this research, we elucidated the physiological basis underlying the increases in K content induced by NHX1. We evaluated main agronomic traits, leaf K content, K+ uptake kinetics, and root morphological and physiological characteristics from field-planted and hydroponic plants. We included a wild-type tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) variety (K326) and three transgenic tobacco lines (NK7, NK9, NK10) that overexpress AtNHX1 from Arabidopsis thaliana. Results demonstrated that the agronomic performance of the AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco lines was similar to K326 in field and hydroponic settings. The three AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco lines had significantly higher leaf K contents than K326. Under hydroponic condition, enhanced K uptake capacity and a larger maximum K uptake rate were seen in AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco lines. AtNHX1 -overexpressing lines also exhibited significantly superior root morphological and physiological traits relative to K326, including root biomass, root volume, absorption area, root activity, cation exchange capacity, soluble protein content, and H+-ATPase activity. Overexpression of AtNHX1 in tobacco significantly improves the K uptake and accumulation. Therefore, leaf K content greatly increased in these transgenic lines in the end. Our findings strongly suggest that AtNHX1 overexpression increased leaf K content by boosting the capacity of enriching K in tobacco roots, thereby advancing the understanding of the function of AtNHX1. NHX1 is closely related to K uptake and accumulation in plants. AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) exhibited significantly higher leaf K content than the wild-type tobacco variety K326. The AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco has significantly improved root morphology and physiology compared to the wild-type variety K326. AtNHX1 -overexpressing tobacco showed higher V max levels in roots than the wild-type variety K326. Overexpression of AtNHX1 is able to increase leaf potassium content by boosting the ability of enriching potassium in tobacco roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Rye (Secale cereale L.), a close relative of common wheat, represents a valuable genetic resource for enhancing the disease resistance of common wheat. Introducing novel rye-derived genes into wheat can potentially improve disease resistance. In this study, we successfully developed a novel wheat-rye derivative line LCR4 through hybridization between hexaploid triticale line Currency and common wheat cultivar Jimai 22 (JM22). We confirmed that LCR4 was a T2DS·2DL-2RL translocation line via comprehensive molecular cytogenetic analyses, including genomic in situ hybridization, multi-color fluorescence in situ hybridization, molecular marker analysis, and wheat SNP-arrays genotyping. Notably, upon inoculation with Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) race V26 at the seedling stage and mixed Pst races at the adult stage, LCR4 exhibited robust resistance against stripe rust infection at both stages. Subsequent genetic analysis further elucidated that the translocated 2RL chromosome segment is responsible for this resistance. Consequently, LCR4 harboring elite agronomic traits can be effectively employed in breeding programs against stripe rust.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is highly sensitive to salt stress, which poses a threat to its production, especially with predicted increases in salinity due to climate change. Enhancing salt tolerance in maize is critical to mitigating these adverse effects, sustaining its production, and ensuring global food security. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of exogenously applied lipoic acid or Si, alone or in integration with soil application of vermicomposttea on physio-biochemical components, antioxidant defense systems, growth, and yield of maize plants exposed to salt stress. The application of vermicompost-tea was carried out as a soil treatment incorporated into irrigation water at a concentration of 200 L ha-1, and administered in three equal doses in irrigation water within the last 10 min of drip irrigation. Silicon was applied at a rate of 6 mM using potassium silicate and lipoic acid was applied at 0.1 mM. Silicon and lipoic acid were applied three times at 25, 40, and 55 d after planting. The results indicated that the integrative application of soil-based vermicompost-tea with exogenously applied Si or lipoic acid significantly enhanced all studied parameters. Specifically, the combination of Si with vermicomposttea exhibited the highest improvement percentage compared to untreated control in chlorophyll a (60.3%), chlorophyll b (72.7%), carotenoids (69.9%), net photosynthetic rate (111%), transpiration rate (134%), stomatal conductance (129.5%), relative water content (28.4%), membrane stability index (44.3%), N (33.4%), P (71.9%), K (39.7%), Ca (89.9%), K/Na (81.2%), total soluble sugars (63.7%), proline (60.1%), ascorbate (44.4%), glutathione (83.5%), and α-tocopherol (72.1%). These positive effects were reflected in enhancing yield traits under salt-affected soil conditions by enhancing plant height (25.1%), number of grains per row (43.3%), number of rows per ear (26.7%), 1000-grain weight (25.9%), grain yield (45.4%), and biological yield (42.8%) compared to untreated control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem rust significantly threatens durum wheat production, often resulting in substantial yield losses. To better understand resistance mechanisms and the stability of durum lines in stem rust-prone environments, this study evaluated 49 durum genotypes over three seasons at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization in Njoro. Utilizing 7 × 7 alpha lattice design, we assessed adult-plant resistance, monitored disease progression through final disease score (FDS) and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), and evaluated agronomic performance. Statistical analyses revealed significant seasonal and genotypic effects on FDS, AUDPC, spike length, and grain yield (p=0.01; p=0.001), with important genotype-by-season interactions (p=0.05; p=0.001). Broadsense heritability for AUDPC was high at 0.91 and moderate at 0.35 for kernels per spike, underscoring the genetic basis of these traits. Notably, we observed negative correlations between disease parameters and agronomic traits, suggesting potential trade-offs. GGE biplot analysis singled out the first season (main season of 2019) as crucial for evaluating stem rust resistance and identified several durum lines, such as G45 and G48, as consistently resistant across all conditions. Furthermore, this analysis highlighted G45, G48, G176 and G189 as the highest yielding and most stable lines. The discovery of these resistant and high-performing genotypes is critical for enhancing durum breeding programs, helping to mitigate the impact of stem rust and improve yield stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effects of nano zero-valent iron-modified biochar (nZVI@BC) as a soil amendment on potted rice growth, soil properties, and heavy metal dynamics. Seven treatments with varying amounts of soil conditioner, biochar, and nZVI@BC were applied to potted rice. Results showed that nZVI@BC application significantly improved rice agronomic traits, with the 15 g·kg−1 treatment increasing the panicle formation rate by 15% and 100-grain weight by 8% compared to the control. Soil fertility was enhanced, with available phosphorus increasing from 137 to 281 mg·kg−1 in the most effective treatment. Heavy metal analysis revealed that nZVI@BC application did not increase soil heavy metal content, with Cd levels remaining below 0.3 mg·kg−1 across treatments. Notably, the 10 g·kg−1 nZVI@BC treatment showed potential for slight Cd immobilization, reducing its concentration from 0.32 to 0.26 mg·kg−1. Microbial community analysis showed that nZVI@BC altered soil microbial diversity and composition, with the 10 g·kg−1 treatment resulting in the highest fungal diversity (Chao1 index: 294.219). The relative abundance of the beneficial fungal class Agaricomycetes increased from 40% to 55% with optimal nZVI@BC application. These findings suggest that nZVI@BC has potential as an effective soil amendment for improving rice cultivation while maintaining soil health, microbial diversity, and potentially mitigating heavy metal contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lupin is a multipurpose legume used for food and feed. However, its production is limited to the northern and northwest highlands of Ethiopia. It is important to evaluate productivity of different varieties in different locations of the country. Therefore, this experiment aimed to evaluate agronomic performances, yield and nutritional values of lupin grain varieties in Gamo Highlands, southern Ethiopia. The field experiment consisting of three treatments (varieties) with five replications arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD). The experiment was carried out for two consecutive rainy seasons. Data on plant height, days to flowering, days to maturity, number of tillers and pods (plant-1), pod length, seeds per pod, grain yield and thousand grains mass (g) was collected. Plant height (cm) at maturity for sanabor variety (86) was significantly higher (p

Phytoregulators have been used as grapevine defoliants in cluster zones to manage and improve grape quality and production. The present study evaluated the effect of the phytoregulator ethephon on the grapevine defoliation of the cluster region, Botrytis bunch rot (BBR) epidemiology, and the viticultural performance of 'Cabernet Sauvignon', during the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 growing seasons, in the highland region of the Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil. Ethephon was applied in the bunch region of both sides of the grapevine vegetative canopy, at the phenological stage of beginning of ripening (BBCH-81) in five active ingredient doses (0 mg L-1 (control); 720 mg L-1; 1,440 mg L-1; 2,160 mg L-1; and 2,880 mg L-1), following a randomized block design with four replications and five plants per replication. The following parameters were evaluated: BBR epidemiology, vegetative, productive, and technological and phenolic maturation. The increasing ethephon doses significantly reduced the linear leaf drop and affected the technological and phenolic grape maturation parameters, improving the must pH, total polyphenols, color 420, 520, and 620 m, color intensity (°hue angle), and anthocyanin, and reducing the total solubre solids in the 'Cabernet Sauvignon' grapevine. However, this significant effect on the linear leaf drop and the technological and phenolic maturation parameters did not interfere with other vegetative, productive, and BBR epidemiology parameters evaluated in the edaphoclimatic conditions of the highland region of southern Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn is among the main agricultural products produced in Brazil, mainly due to its importance in human and animal food. Corn productivity is mainly related to climatic conditions and nutritional management, especially concerning nitrogen. The study's objective was to evaluate the response of corn hybrids subjected to nitrogen doses in a low-altitude subtropical environment. The experiment was conducted in the agricultural year of 2019/2020 in the municipality of Santa Maria-RS. The experimental design was of completely randomized blocks in a subdivided plot. Four corn hybrids, DKB 240 PRO 3, DKB 290 PRO 3, DKB 345 PRO 3, and Ag 9025 were used as the main plot, and six doses of nitrogen, 0, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 kg ha-1 in subplots. We evaluated the number of grain rows (NR) per cob, number of grains per row (NGR), cob length (CL, cm), average grain length (GL, cm), total grain weight per cob (GWC, g), thousand-grain mass (TGM, in g), and grain yield (YIE, in kg ha-1). The data were submitted to the analysis of variance (F test), and the means were compared by the Scott-Knott test at 5% of error probability and submitted to regression analysis. Cultivar Ag 9025 had the highest grain yield, associated with the highest CL, GL, GWC, TGM. The higher GL associated with high TGM compensated for the lower averages of NR and NGR for this cultivar. The maximum technical efficiency for the cultivars was 196.22 kg ha-1 of nitrogen. The mass economic efficiency with commercial values of the 2019/2020 harvest for the cultivars was 185.84 kg ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) is a perennial herbaceous leguminous forage crop with a high content of crude protein, palatability, nutritive value and non-bloating. It can be offered in the form of green forage, grazing pasture, hay, or silage. To mitigate the dry season feed shortage, the agronomic performance and chemical composition of sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) accessions were studied in the mid-altitude of Soddo and Abeshgie Woredas of Garage Zone of Ethiopia. For the screening, five International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) accessions (No 5708, 16006, 6582, 10558, and 10556) and four wild sainfoin accessions were collected from Worabe, Albazer, Meskan Dubo Tuto and Gibie river basin with morphological variation. They were subjected to initial screening followed by field trials for a period of fifteen months per session. Among the twenty-nine agronomic parameters (for screening purpose), based on the dendrogram results, fifteen data points were used for location wise (Buee and Tatesa) evaluation purposes. The results indicated that, with the exception of leaf length, leaf width, and annual seed yield, all parameters were affected by the accession by location interaction. The highest (P<0.001) cumulative dry matter, seed yield, and crude protein (CP%) contents were recorded for Worabe sainfoin, ILRI 5708 and ILRI 16006, respectively. Lower (P<0.05) condensed tannin (CT) was recorded in ILRI 5708, Worabe's and Albazer's sainfoin without any significant difference. During the first 24-hour incubation period, the highest and least (P<0.001) gases were produced from ILRI 16006 and Albazer, and ILRI 5708, respectively. The highest and least (P<0.001) methane gas was recorded from ILRI 16006 and ILRI 5708 respectively. The results indicated that Worabe sainfoin was superior to the result in all evaluated parameters. So, Worabe sainfoin hay mixture with crop residues can be used to enhance the nutritional value of crop residue-based poor feed resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ARTICLE HIGLIGHTS - Glomus mosseae and Pseudomonas fluorescens enhance soybean resistance to SMV. - Ten-day drip irrigation stop at bloom stage boosts seed yield and weight. - Treatment reduces disease severity and increases P. fluorescens population. - Water-saving irrigation method improves soybean performance in dry seasons. - Combining G. mosseae and P. fluorescens increases soybean productivity. ABSTRACT Soybeans [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] require much water, especially in the early stages of growth, flowering, and pod formation and filling. Drought stress on soybeans will increase with global climate change. The research aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Glomus mosseae and Pseudomonas fluorescens in inducing systemic resistance to control Soybean Mosaic Virus (SMV) and the performance of soybean plants with drip irrigation in the dry season. The drip irrigation was stopped for ten days at the beginning of bloom, full bloom, beginning pod, and regular drip irrigation. The application of G. mosseae inoculants used 100 g of sterile compost mixed with 30 spores. The liquid inoculum of P. fluorescens was applied on cotyledonary leaves using the watering method. The plants were inoculated with SMV 6 and 12 days after the P. fluorescens treatment. The symptoms of SMV were recorded two weeks after inoculation, and Indirect ELISA detected the virus. The results showed the combination of G. mosseae and P. fluorescens under drip irrigation stopped at the beginning of bloom for ten days on ELISA absorbance values and disease severity of 0.259 and 3.72 %, respectively. Moreover, this treatment showed the highest values for the 100-seed weight, seed yield, and fresh weight of leaves. The technique of giving water by stopping drip irrigation at the beginning of bloom for ten days will help save water and increase the P. fluorescens population optimally in Alfisols with a pH of between 4.5 and 5.1 with incredibly low fertility. The combination of G. mosseae and P. fluorescens population resulted in a significant increase in the number of G. mosseae’s spores by stopping drip irrigation at the beginning of bloom for ten days.

Rich in oil and protein, canola is a significantly promising crop and is widely explored as an alternative to grain cultivation in the winter period. Recently, canola oil has been largely consumed due to a variety of health benefits and low production costs. Nonetheless, impasses such as determining the correct sowing date and optimizing harvesting methods make it difficult to expand cultivation. Accordingly, the purpose of the study was to evaluate the performance of two canola hybrids on three sowing dates and distinct harvesting procedures. The study was conducted in Cachoeira do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, on three sowing dates (2019, 2020, and 2021), with two hybrids (Hyola 433 and Hyola 575 CL). The methods of direct harvesting, direct harvesting with the application of adjuvant, cut-row, and cut-row with the application of adjuvant were evaluated. The main yield components were determined, in addition to biochemical parameters, such as oil and protein content and determination of oil quality (acid, peroxide, iodine, extinction, and saponification indices). Appropriately, this study indicated that canola is significantly sensitive to climatic conditions, mainly to temperature and sowing time, reducing grain and biomass yield in late sowing and resulting in serious harvest losses. Oil and grain protein contents were affected by climatic conditions. Nevertheless, the protein content was not affected by late sowing. Canola oil presented significant chemical conditions, with a correlation between the crops with higher oil yield and better oil quality.

Powdery mildew, caused by Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (Bgt), is a devastating disease that seriously threatens wheat yield and quality. To control this disease, host resistance is the most effective measure. Compared with the resistance genes from common wheat, alien resistance genes can better withstand infection of this highly variable pathogen. Development of elite alien germplasm resources with powdery mildew resistance and other key breeding traits is an attractive strategy in wheat breeding. In this study, three wheat-rye germplasm lines YT4-1, YT4-2, and YT4-3 were developed through hybridization between octoploid triticale and common wheat, out of which the lines YT4-1 and YT4-2 conferred adult-plant resistance (APR) to powdery mildew while the line YT4-3 was susceptible to powdery mildew during all of its growth stages. Using genomic in situ hybridization, multi-color fluorescence in situ hybridization, multi-color GISH, and molecular marker analysis, YT4-1, YT4-2, and YT4-3 were shown to be cytogenetically stable wheat-rye 6R addition and T1RS·1BL translocation line, 6RL ditelosomic addition and T1RS·1BL translocation line, and T1RS·1BL translocation line, respectively. Compared with previously reported wheat-rye derivative lines carrying chromosome 6R, YT4-1 and YT4-2 showed stable APR without undesirable pleiotropic effects on agronomic traits. Therefore, these novel wheat-rye 6R derivative lines are expected to be promising bridge resources in wheat disease breeding.

In this study, we evaluated Polimaize lines, named Polimaize, through the integration of alleles from the Native Blue Corn (NBC-JIQ), a local Mexican maize variety indigenous to the northeast region of Michoacán, Mexico, into elite maize lines curated by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). This crossbreeding aimed to enhance the nutritional profile of maize, particularly in terms of antioxidants and anthocyanins, which are scarce in elite lines. Our results demonstrated a significant increase in these compounds in the Polimaize lines, with variations due to heterosis. Despite these nutritional improvements, some traits showed decreased concentrations compared to parent lines, notably in sucrose and tryptophan, suggesting a potential trade-off. The study also found significant heritability in amino acids and tryptophan, while hexose sugars showed no substantial heritability. The Polimaize variety exhibited high starch content heritability, comparable to elite lines. Field trials confirmed Polimaize's promising yield and agronomic traits, highlighting its potential for enhancing consumer health and contributing to sustainable agriculture through enriched crop nutritional quality. This project underscores the value of integrating local race alleles into elite lines, offering genetic diversity in maize cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Stem rust significantly threatens durum wheat production, often resulting in substantial yield losses. To better understand resistance mechanisms and the stability of durum lines in stem rust-prone environments, this study evaluated 49 durum genotypes over three seasons at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization in Njoro. Utilizing 7 × 7 alpha lattice design, we assessed adult-plant resistance, monitored disease progression through final disease score (FDS) and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), and evaluated agronomic performance. Statistical analyses revealed significant seasonal and genotypic effects on FDS, AUDPC, spike length, and grain yield (p≤0.01; p≤0.001), with important genotype-by-season interactions (p≤0.05; p≤0.001). Broad-sense heritability for AUDPC was high at 0.91 and moderate at 0.35 for kernels per spike, underscoring the genetic basis of these traits. Notably, we observed negative correlations between disease parameters and agronomic traits, suggesting potential trade-offs. GGE biplot analysis singled out the first season (main season of 2019) as crucial for evaluating stem rust resistance and identified several durum lines, such as G45 and G48, as consistently resistant across all conditions. Furthermore, this analysis highlighted G45, G48, G176 and G189 as the highest yielding and most stable lines. The discovery of these resistant and high-performing genotypes is critical for enhancing durum breeding programs, helping to mitigate the impact of stem rust and improve yield stability.

This study investigated the effects of nano zero-valent iron-modified biochar (nZVI@BC) as a soil amendment on potted rice growth, soil properties, and heavy metal dynamics. Seven treatments with varying amounts of soil conditioner, biochar, and nZVI@BC were applied to potted rice. Results showed that nZVI@BC application significantly improved rice agronomic traits, with the 15 g·kg−1 treatment increasing the panicle formation rate by 15% and 100-grain weight by 8% compared to the control. Soil fertility was enhanced, with available phosphorus increasing from 137 to 281 mg·kg−1 in the most effective treatment. Heavy metal analysis revealed that nZVI@BC application did not increase soil heavy metal content, with Cd levels remaining below 0.3 mg·kg−1 across treatments. Notably, the 10 g·kg−1 nZVI@BC treatment showed potential for slight Cd immobilization, reducing its concentration from 0.32 to 0.26 mg·kg−1. Microbial community analysis showed that nZVI@BC altered soil microbial diversity and composition, with the 10 g·kg−1 treatment resulting in the highest fungal diversity (Chao1 index: 294.219). The relative abundance of the beneficial fungal class Agaricomycetes increased from 40% to 55% with optimal nZVI@BC application. These findings suggest that nZVI@BC has potential as an effective soil amendment for improving rice cultivation while maintaining soil health, microbial diversity, and potentially mitigating heavy metal contamination.

There is limited information on the appropriate agronomic practices for castor in the humid tropics. This study evaluated the effects of organic fertilizer (OF) and sowing date (SD) on the agronomic performance of castor during late cropping season (June − Dec.) of 2021 and 2022 at the Institute of Food Security, Environmental Resources and Agricultural Research, Abeokuta, Nigeria. Two factors: OF − control and organic fertilizer (main plot) and SD − eight sowing dates (SD1-SD8 i.e., from June 18 to August 5) at 7-day intervals (sub plot) were laid in a split-plot arrangement fitted into Randomized Complete Block Design in three replicates. Data were collected on agronomic traits of castor. Organic fertilizer significantly (P < 0.05) expedited days to flowering and increased height to primary raceme in 2021. SD had significant (P < 0.05) effect on days of flowering, seed yield, and yield attributes of castor. Castor sown at SD1 and SD2 in 2022 produced high seed yield of 773.7 and 799.1 kg/ha higher by 498.8% and 503.0% than SD8 yield of 129.2 kg/ha. It is concluded that for optimum castor seed production, sowing should be done from June 18 to latest July 2 with or without organic fertilizer in the humid tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate agronomic performance in cultivars of the Cavendish banana under the soil and climate conditions of the microregion of Assis in the state of São Paulo over three production cycles. The experiment was set up at the Fazenda São José Farm, Água do Pau d´Alho, in Palmital, São Paulo. The Grande Naine, IAC2001 and FHIA02 cultivars were evaluated, considering the following variables: cultivar; plant height; pseudostem perimeter; number of leaves at flowering and harvest; number of days from planting to flowering, from planting to harvest, and from flowering to harvest; weight of the bunch, stalk and fruit per bunch; number of hands per bunch; productivity of the fruit and pulp; weight and number of fingers on the second hand; weight, length and diameter of the finger; pulp diameter; and weight and thickness of the peel. The data were subjected to multivariate statistical techniques (principal component factor analysis, tree clustering, two-way joining, and correspondence). The results showed the extraction of three principal factors that accounted for 89.63% of the total variance of the characteristics under analysis: banana production (Factor 1), vegetative development (Factor 2), and cultivars and fruit diameter (Factor 3). The productive performance of the FHIA02 cultivar was homogeneous and inferior to that of the other cultivars, as seen in the two-way joining cluster analysis. Only the Grande Naine and IAC2001 cultivars are recommended for cultivation in the micro-region of Assis, São Paulo, with Grande Naine showing the largest fruit and, especially, the largest pulp diameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of hybrid plants can increase the production and quality of blue corn, and, thus, satisfy its high demand. For this development, it is essential to understand the heterotic relationships of the germplasm. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of general (GCA) and specific (SCA) combining ability, as well as the reciprocal effects (REs) on the yields of 10 blue corn lines, and to select the outstanding lines. Diallel crosses were generated with 10 lines and evaluated at the Valle de México Experimental Station in Chapingo, Mexico, and Calpulalpan, Tlaxcala, Mexico. There were differences (p ≤ 0.01) in the hybrids, Loc, effects of GCA, SCA, and REs, and in the following interactions: hybrids × Loc, GCA × Loc, SCA × Loc, and RE × Loc. For GCA, lines Ll, L4, L6, and L9 stood out, with significant values of 3.4, 2.9, 2.9, and 3.1, respectively. For SCA, the hybrids featured were L4 × L10, L2 × L10, L1 × L10, L7 × L8, and L2 × L6, with values of 3.0, 2.5, 2.3, 2.3, and 2.2, and yields of 11.2, 10.2, 10.4, 10.4, and 10.5 t ha−l, respectively. There were no significant REs in these lines. Considerable effects of GCA and SCA were detected; therefore, we concluded that native populations had favorable dominance and additive genetic effects that could be used to support the development of high-yielding lines and hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Phytoregulators have been used as grapevine defoliants in cluster zones to manage and improve grape quality and production. The present study evaluated the effect of the phytoregulator ethephon on the grapevine defoliation of the cluster region, Botrytis bunch rot (BBR) epidemiology, and the viticultural performance of ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’, during the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 growing seasons, in the highland region of the Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil. Ethephon was applied in the bunch region of both sides of the grapevine vegetative canopy, at the phenological stage of beginning of ripening (BBCH-81) in five active ingredient doses (0 mg L-1 (control); 720 mg L-1; 1,440 mg L-1; 2,160 mg L-1; and 2,880 mg L-1), following a randomized block design with four replications and five plants per replication. The following parameters were evaluated: BBR epidemiology, vegetative, productive, and technological and phenolic maturation. The increasing ethephon doses significantly reduced the linear leaf drop and affected the technological and phenolic grape maturation parameters, improving the must pH, total polyphenols, color 420, 520, and 620 ղm, color intensity (°hue angle), and anthocyanin, and reducing the total solubre solids in the ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ grapevine. However, this significant effect on the linear leaf drop and the technological and phenolic maturation parameters did not interfere with other vegetative, productive, and BBR epidemiology parameters evaluated in the edaphoclimatic conditions of the highland region of southern Brazil.

The decline in maize production may mainly be attributed to improper or excessive use of fertilizers, leading to significant soil nutrient losses. The integrated use of crop residues and synthetic fertilizers is more profitable and beneficial in meeting crop nutritional needs, ensuring long-term production and environmental protection. Advances in agricultural production and sustainable land management are still scarce in this country. Therefore, in this research, a field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season, also known as monsoon or autumn crops, in 2021 using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) having three replications and two factors, i.e. phosphorus sources (DAP, SSP and NP) and crop residues (sarson and sesbania) in a maize plantation. Phosphorus and plant residues were applied at a rate of 90 kg ha−1 and 5 tons ha−1, respectively. Treatment of DAP (90 kg ha−1) with the incorporation of 5 tons ha−1 of sesbania residue emerged as the best P‑crop residue combination with delayed tasseling (50 days), early silking (68 days), taller plants (178 cm), thousand-grain weight (233 g) with maximum biological yield (11349 kg ha−1), and grain yield (3760 kg ha−1). It was concluded that incorporating phosphorus in the form of DAP with sesbania residues resulted in the highest plant height, biological yield, as well as grain yield of maize. Furthermore, the integrated approach has proven to be more economical in terms of cost-benefit ratio (BCR). This would help to reduce the use of high-cost synthetic mineral fertilizers while also significantly boosting maize yield and economics in the agro-climatic conditions of Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

WATER deficit is a major environmental stress that has a tremendous effect on the physiological processes and productivity of rice. Thus, it is crucial to enhance rice tolerance to drought stress, especially under unpredictable climate changes and the increasing global population. This investigation aimed to study the impact of foliar-supplied nano-silica (Si-NPs) and potassium sulfate (K-sulphate) on some physiological, agronomic characters and crop water productivity of rice plants under water deficit and well-watered conditions during two summer seasons. The experimental design was a spilt-plot with four replications. The main plots were assigned to the two irrigation treatments; every 4 days (well-watered) and 12 days (water-deficit) after transplanting. The sub-plots were allocated by the three foliar treatments, namely, untreated control (distilled water application), foliar application of Si-NPs, and K-sulphate. The results displayed that the foliar applications, irrigation treatments, and their interactions had a significant influence on all the evaluated traits. Drought stress significantly reduced number of panicles per plant, number of grains per panicle, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield. However, water deficit considerably elevated antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) proline content compared to well-watered conditions. The foliar application of Si-NPs and K-sulphate was efficient in boosting drought tolerance by promoting antioxidant enzymes (CAT and POD) as well as proline accumulation compared with untreated plants. These positive influences were displayed in improving grain yield and its related traits as well as crop water productivity under drought stress conditions. Consequently, the utilization of foliar-applied Si-NPs and K-sulphate represents an applicable approach to enhance yield traits and crop water productivity of rice under water shortage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Caatinga is the property of Revista Caatinga 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.)

Tungro is still a problem in efforts to increase rice production, it can disrupt the stability of rice production if conditions worsen. Plant fertilizer application is an integral part of plant cultivation, especially nitrogen fertilizer. Improper utilization of fertilizers can harm agriculture by increasing plant vulnerability to pests and diseases. Thus, the purpose of the study was to examine the effects of various doses of nitrogen on the agronomic performance of rice plants, as well as their susceptibility to tungro. The research was conducted at the Greenhouse, Sukamandi, and the Muara Experimental Field, Center for Rice Research, Bogor. The experiments, both in the greenhouse and field, used a split-plot randomized complete block design with three replications. The main plots were variety, while the subplots were nitrogen dosage. The results showed that Inpari 36 Lanrang was better than Ciherang and IR64 in terms of plant height, number of tillers, empty grain per clump, leaf greenness, and yield/pot in the greenhouse. While from the field experiment, varieties have different flowering times, plant heights, number of filled grains, number of empty grains, 1,000-grain weight, net assimilation rate, yield/plot, and tungro incidence. The use of nitrogen fertilizer affected flowering time in the greenhouse and affected productive tillers, yield per plot in the field, and the greenness of the leaves of healthy plants. The optimum dose is 167.5 kg ha-1 nitrogen. As a result, it is recommended that controlling tungro disease should involve the integration of fertilizer application that is balanced with the use of resistant varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to evaluate agronomic performance in cultivars of the Cavendish banana under the soil and climate conditions of the microregion of Assis in the state of São Paulo over three production cycles. The experiment was set up at the Fazenda São José Farm, Água do Pau d´Alho, in Palmital, São Paulo. The Grande Naine, IAC2001 and FHIA02 cultivars were evaluated, considering the following variables: cultivar; plant height; pseudostem perimeter; number of leaves at flowering and harvest; number of days from planting to flowering, from planting to harvest, and from flowering to harvest; weight of the bunch, stalk and fruit per bunch; number of hands per bunch; productivity of the fruit and pulp; weight and number of fingers on the second hand; weight, length and diameter of the finger; pulp diameter; and weight and thickness of the peel. The data were subjected to multivariate statistical techniques (principal component factor analysis, tree clustering, two-way joining, and correspondence). The results showed the extraction of three principal factors that accounted for 89.63% of the total variance of the characteristics under analysis: banana production (Factor 1), vegetative development (Factor 2), and cultivars and fruit diameter (Factor 3). The productive performance of the FHIA02 cultivar was homogeneous and inferior to that of the other cultivars, as seen in the two-way joining cluster analysis. Only the Grande Naine and IAC2001 cultivars are recommended for cultivation in the micro-region of Assis, São Paulo, with Grande Naine showing the largest fruit and, especially, the largest pulp diameter.

The objective was to develop efficient substrates, with increasing proportions of biochar derived from anaerobic sewage sludge (ASS-biochar) and regionally available raw materials, to produce tobacco seedlings (Nicotiana tabacum) in floating systems. Physical, hydraulic and chemical variables and the effects on tobacco plants were evaluated through an indoor experiment with seedling production. The experiment was conducted on trays in a floating hydroponic system in a randomized block design with four replications and eight plants per plot. The ASS-biochar showed environmental safety and agronomic efficiency in substrate composition, in particular with 50% to 90% ASS-biochar in the formulation. The best formulations positively affected the growth-related variables, showing similar or superior performance to the three commercial substrates (references). The ideal ranges of the substrate characteristics were: dry density: 420–520 kg m−3; total porosity: 60–75%; aeration space: 25–35%; easily available water: 9–12%; water buffering capacity: 3–5%; available water: 12–15%; remaining water: 20–25%; pH: 6.0–6.5; electrical conductivity: 1.4–2.3 mS cm−1. The development of substrates considering ASS-biochar, regional raw materials and ideal physical-chemical properties would prevent environmental pollution by generating value-added products to improve tobacco seedlings and expand the productivity and quality of tobacco worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Caatinga is the property of Revista Caatinga 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.)

A winter wheat composite cross population (CCP), created in the UK in 2001, has been grown in Germany, Hungary, and the UK since 2005 (F5 generation). In 2008/09 (F8), a cycling pattern for the populations was developed between partners to test the effects of rapidly changing environments on agronomic performance and morphological characteristics. One CCP was grown by eight partners for one year and subsequently sent to the next partner, creating "cycling CCPs" with different histories. In 2013, all eight cycling CCPs and the three non-cycling CCPs (from Germany, Hungary, and the UK) were included in a two-year experiment in Germany with three line varieties as references. Differing seed weights of the F13 at sowing affected some agronomic parameters under drought conditions in 2014/15 but not under less stressful conditions in 2013/14. In both experimental years, the CCPs were comparable to the line varieties in terms of agronomic performance, with some CCPs yielding more than the varieties under the drought conditions of 2015. The results highlight the potential of CCPs to compete with line varieties, while the overall similarity of the CCPs based on their origin and cycling history for agronomic traits indicates a high buffering potential under highly variable environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing crop productivity through crop diversification under the same unit area has been considered as a way for sustainable intensification of cropping systems. This research was conducted on loamy sand soil at the Crop Research Station of Royal University of Agriculture (RUA) in Cambodia. The objective was to evaluate the growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.) and mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) crops and land-equivalent ratio (LER) of maize-mungbean intercropping system using different seed rates of mungbean at 0% (0 kg ha−1), 25% (10 kg ha−1), 50% (20 kg ha−1), 75% (30 kg ha−1), 100% (40 kg ha−1) of recommended rates. The experiment was laid out using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The agronomic traits and yield of both crops were measured at harvest. The weeds were removed three times to measure biomass. The results showed that there was no significant difference in agronomic traits and yield of maize under either maize-mungbean intercropping or maize monocropping irrespective of different mungbean seed rates. The highest mungbean seed rates as recommended did not decrease the growth and yield of intercropped maize. In contrast, the presence of mungbean in the intercropping suppressed weed growth significantly and the trend of weed biomass decreased with increasing mungbean seed rates. The intercropped mungbean grain yield decreased in comparison with monocropping mungbean. Overall, the land equivalent ratio (LER) was higher than 1 under the intercropping, showing its agronomic benefits, compared to monocropping. Therefore, maize-mungbean intercropping is a potential practice for improving productivity and managing weeds. Further research needs to be investigated under different ecological and social-economical niches to determine overall potential benefits and opportunities for scaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we evaluated Polimaize lines, named Polimaize, through the integration of alleles from the Native Blue Corn (NBC-JIQ), a local Mexican maize variety indigenous to the northeast region of Michoacán, Mexico, into elite maize lines curated by the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). This crossbreeding aimed to enhance the nutritional profile of maize, particularly in terms of antioxidants and anthocyanins, which are scarce in elite lines. Our results demonstrated a significant increase in these compounds in the Polimaize lines, with variations due to heterosis. Despite these nutritional improvements, some traits showed decreased concentrations compared to parent lines, notably in sucrose and tryptophan, suggesting a potential trade-off. The study also found significant heritability in amino acids and tryptophan, while hexose sugars showed no substantial heritability. The Polimaize variety exhibited high starch content heritability, comparable to elite lines. Field trials confirmed Polimaize’s promising yield and agronomic traits, highlighting its potential for enhancing consumer health and contributing to sustainable agriculture through enriched crop nutritional quality. This project underscores the value of integrating local race alleles into elite lines, offering genetic diversity in maize cultivation.

Permanent grasslands represent the main terrestrial ecosystem and serve as an important global reservoir of biodiversity, providing a wide range of benefits to humans and ecosystems. The effects of environment on permanent meadows (in our survey, they were centuries-old meadows that had not been plowed, mowed, or fertilized with manure) production have been adequately investigated in literature. However, plant species composition impact on potential feed value of first cut has still to be understood, in particular regarding different agronomic management. Our field trial was carried out in five farms, in a territory involved in the value chain of the Parmigiano Reggiano PDO (Val d'Enza, Northern Italy), over a two-year period (2017–2018). Differences in botanical composition, biomass, and Pastoral Value index (PV), which synthesizes grassland yield and nutritional parameters, were investigated in depth. The herbage dry matter (DM) yield was affected by year, farm, and their interaction factors. Its highest value across the two years was recorded in farm 5 (11.7 tons of DM ha−1), which applied the highest rate of nitrogen fertilization. The botanical composition of the first cut has favored the presence of both Poaceae and 'other species' (each one around 40 plants per transect) compared to Fabaceae (seven plants per transect). However, higher numbers of Fabaceae plants (13 and 10) plausibly determined increases in PV in farms 3 and 5 (56.4 and 58.7, respectively). Although differences were observed among the most important nutritional parameters of grassland (crude protein, digestible and undigested neutral detergent fiber contents), suitable net energy for lactation (NEL) values for feeding lactating cows were always recorded during the two years of survey. The present study provides a contribution of knowledge on how the botanical composition of permanent meadows may affect their potential nutritive value as fresh herbage for feeding dairy cows. Considering these results, the agronomic management should seek a level of plant biodiversity that at the same time might guarantee satisfactory yield and feed value, also in a context of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of haploid induction systems is regarded not only for high haploid induction rate (HIR) but also resource savings. Isolation fields are proposed for hybrid induction. However, efficient haploid production depends on inducer traits such as high HIR, abundant pollen production, and tall plants. Seven hybrid inducers and their respective parents were evaluated over three years for HIR, seeds set in cross-pollinations, plant and ear height, tassel size, and tassel branching. Mid-parent heterosis was estimated to quantify how much inducer traits improve in hybrids in comparison to their parents. Heterosis benefits hybrid inducers for plant height, ear height, and tassel size. Two hybrid inducers, BH201/LH82-Ped126 and BH201/LH82-Ped128, are promising for haploid induction in isolation fields. Hybrid inducers offer convenience and resource-effectiveness for haploid induction by means of improving plant vigor without compromising HIR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytic acid (PA), an anti-nutritional factor hampers the nutritional value of maize-based food by reducing the bioavailability of zinc and iron. Low phytate maize is key for addressing poor micronutrient bioavailability. Here, we developed low phytic acid double mutants (lpa1/lpa2) in maize by crossing lpa1 and lpa2- based near-isogenic lines (NILs) in seven genetic backgrounds. Genotypic selections for lpa1 and lpa2 genes in the F 2 population revealed segregation ratios of 9:3:3:1 for double mutants and 3:1 for single mutants. Newly developed double mutants along with single mutants and wild types, were field-evaluated for two seasons. Wide genetic variation was observed for PA, inorganic phosphorus (Pi), grain yield, and agro-morphological traits, with negligible G×E interactions. PA concentration of lpa1/lpa2 (1.73 mg/g) was significantly (P <0.05) lower than wild types (2.92 mg/g), lpa1 (1.86 mg/g), and lpa2 (2.05 mg/g) lines. The double mutants revealed more prominent PA reduction (41 %) than single mutants, lpa1 (36 %) and lpa2 (30 %) compared to wild types. Additionally, the double mutants recorded comparable performance to wild types for grain yield and other agro-morphological traits. This study illustrated the potential of double mutants over lpa -based single mutants in lowering the anti-nutritional effects and enhancing the nutritional value of maize grains. • Crossing NILs of lpa1 and lpa2 successfully developed double mutants (lpa1/lpa2). • lpa1 and lpa2 jointly segregated in Mendelian fashion, revealing 9:3:3:1 ratio. • PA in double mutants (1.73 mg/g) was significantly lower than wild types (2.92 mg/g). • Reduction in PA of lpa1/lpa2 (41 %) was greater than in lpa1 (36 %) and lpa2 (30 %) over wild types. • Novel double mutants have potential to alleviate malnutrition with enhanced bioavailable Fe and Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth. As a widespread source of plant-available N, ammonia synthesis via the Haber-Bosch process has proven an extremely valuable commodity in farming systems since the middle of the twentieth century. However, its heavy reliance on ever-shrinking fossil fuel reserves and its sizeable carbon footprint have fostered the exploration of alternative, more sustainable, fertilising prospects. Through the recycling and reuse of nutrient byproducts, biobased fertilisers (BBF) can help reduce the European Union's dependency on imported synthetic fertilisers. In this study, we examined digestate, the liquid fraction of digestate, pig slurry and pig urine as potential substitutes for synthetic fertilisers. In a full-scale field approach using a different crop each year (maize, spinach, potatoes), the agronomic performance of the treatments (defined as the crop N uptake and the crop yield) and the environmental performance (taken as the residual soil nitrates after harvest) of the BBF treatments were compared with those of a synthetic fertiliser benchmark (calcium ammonium nitrate) at three N regimes. As regards short-term fertilising capability, results showed that yields obtained from BBFs were not statistically different (p > 0.05) than those obtained with synthetic fertilisers. Likewise, for soil residual nitrates (0–90 cm), measured in October–November of each year, no difference (p > 0.05) was detected between the BBFs and the synthetic fertiliser reference treatments. However, the non-superiority test showed that some BBFs tended to perform better in terms of residual nitrates than the synthetic regimes. Generally, results pointed to a fast N release ability of the BBFs, indicated by the presence of nitrates at different soil depths. Hence, as with the mineral fertiliser, BBFs were prone to leaching which calls for adequate N management strategies. The N content of some BBFs were shown to vary over time, hence adequate and timely nutrient characterisations must be carried out prior to field application to ensure a more accurate N accountancy and reduce risks of over-fertilisation (or under-fertilisation). • Four biobased fertilisers were used in full replacement of synthetic fertilisers. • No significant differences were observed in biomass yield and N uptake between digestate and synthetic fertiliser schemes.. • No significant differences were observed in nitrate leaching between digestate and synthetic fertiliser schemes. • A higher N regime did not necessarily lead to higher yields. • Adequate and timely nutrient characterisation is needed to counter N variability from digestate and other biobased fertilisers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of hybrid plants can increase the production and quality of blue corn, and, thus, satisfy its high demand. For this development, it is essential to understand the heterotic relationships of the germplasm. The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of general (GCA) and specific (SCA) combining ability, as well as the reciprocal effects (REs) on the yields of 10 blue corn lines, and to select the outstanding lines. Diallel crosses were generated with 10 lines and evaluated at the Valle de México Experimental Station in Chapingo, Mexico, and Calpulalpan, Tlaxcala, Mexico. There were differences (p ≤ 0.01) in the hybrids, Loc, effects of GCA, SCA, and REs, and in the following interactions: hybrids × Loc, GCA × Loc, SCA × Loc, and RE × Loc. For GCA, lines Ll, L4, L6, and L9 stood out, with significant values of 3.4, 2.9, 2.9, and 3.1, respectively. For SCA, the hybrids featured were L4 × L10, L2 × L10, L1 × L10, L7 × L8, and L2 × L6, with values of 3.0, 2.5, 2.3, 2.3, and 2.2, and yields of 11.2, 10.2, 10.4, 10.4, and 10.5 t ha−l, respectively. There were no significant REs in these lines. Considerable effects of GCA and SCA were detected; therefore, we concluded that native populations had favorable dominance and additive genetic effects that could be used to support the development of high-yielding lines and hybrids.

Abstract Background Salicylic acid participates in the regulation of the plant's response to a series of environmental stresses such as extreme temperatures, salinity, and oxidative condition of potato growth, so it is necessary to determine a safe application dosage for potato in field conditions. Methods The purpose of the research was to evaluate the effect of increasing doses of acetylsalicylic acid on the agronomic traits of two potato cultivars in Lima, Peru. In a field experiment, an RCBD with 3 replications was used under a split-plot arrangement in which five doses (0.0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 mM) of acetylsalicylic acid plus control with Biol (biostimulant) were assigned to plots, and two potato cultivars ('Perricholi' and 'Unica') were assigned to subplots. The average temperatures were between 15 and 21º C, the air relative humidity was between 61 and 73% and the soil was loam textural class, free of salts. Results No statistical differences were found for the number and weight of tubers and biomass due to the effect of the application of the treatments. The effects of doses of acetylsalicylic acid showed statistical differences for sprouting, vegetative vigor, and percentage of flowering; likewise, significant interactions (p

The use of scions grafted onto passionfruit vines has become an alternative to their cultivation in areas with a history of fusariosis. However, the combinations between the graft and rootstock can influence on the productivity and longevity of the passionfruit farm. The objective was to evaluate the productivity and mortality of the passionfruit cv BRS Rubi do Cerrado grafted onto three species of rootstock in Terra Nova do Norte-MT. The design was a randomized block with 4 treatments BRS Rubi do Cerrado (BRS-RC) seedling plant along with those grafted onto three species of rootstock: Passiflora gibertii, Passiflora alata; Passiflora nitida. The scions were grafted through a cleft graft and the planting performed after 70 days. The evaluation was made of the total number and weight of the fruits, along with productivity and mortality of plants. Results showed that the BRS-RC, grafted onto P. gibertii and P. nitida, presented the best performance for weight of fruits, number of fruits and productivity. The cultivar that was grafted onto different rootstocks presented higher productivity in regards to the seedling plant. The BRS-RC, grafted onto P. nitida, presented a zero-mortality rate over the 16.5 months of cultivation. The rootstocks P. nitida and P. gibertii were superior to those of P. alata in reducing mortality in the passionfruit vine by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. passiflorae. The confirmation was made of the pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. passiflorae isolated in the experimental area in scions of the BRS-RC inoculated at 70 days of age.

The use of scions grafted onto passionfruit vines has become an alternative to their cultivation in areas with a history of fusariosis. However, the combinations between the graft and rootstock can influence on the productivity and longevity of the passionfruit farm. The objective was to evaluate the productivity and mortality of the passionfruit cv BRS Rubi do Cerrado grafted onto three species of rootstock in Terra Nova do Norte-MT. The design was a randomized block with 4 treatments BRS Rubi do Cerrado (BRS-RC) seedling plant along with those grafted onto three species of rootstock: Passiflora gibertii, Passiflora alata; Passiflora nitida. The scions were grafted through a cleft graft and the planting performed after 70 days. The evaluation was made of the total number and weight of the fruits, along with productivity and mortality of plants. Results showed that the BRS-RC, grafted onto P. gibertii and P. nitida, presented the best performance for weight of fruits, number of fruits and productivity. The cultivar that was grafted onto different rootstocks presented higher productivity in regards to the seedling plant. The BRS-RC, grafted onto P. nitida, presented a zero-mortality rate over the 16.5 months of cultivation. The rootstocks P. nitida and P. gibertii were superior to those of P. alata in reducing mortality in the passionfruit vine by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. passiflorae. The confirmation was made of the pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. passiflorae isolated in the experimental area in scions of the BRS-RC inoculated at 70 days of age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic base revealed by pedigree records of the majority of released cultivars appears to be narrow in major pulse crops, including lentils, because of the frequent use of the same parents and their derivatives in crop improvement programs. Therefore, corrective measures are needed to widen the genetic base by involving the genetic resources of a distinct gene pool. In this direction, rigorous efforts were made to introgress wild Lens taxa, L. culinaris ssp. orientalis, and L. ervoides into the backgrounds of cultivated varieties. Subsequently, genetic materials were advanced through the single seed descent method of breeding along with a rapid generation advancement (normal and off-season) approach. Two F10V11 interspecific derivatives of lentils were evaluated in augmented block design at two locations, viz. International Centre for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA) and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), India. The analysis of variance showed remarkable variability for all target characters at both locations. The heritability estimates were high, and correlation analysis exhibited a significant association between the majority of traits assessed at ICARDA and SKUAST, India. Further, SKUAST identified the most promising lines as "Jammu Lentil 144" and "Jammu Lentil 71." These derivatives were further validated separately for their agronomic potential and resistance against major biotic stresses. The results revealed that Jammu Lentil 144 and Jammu Lentil 71 produced 16.65 and 9.40% more seed yield than local and national checks, including earliness, by 25 and 15 days, respectively. These promising interspecific derivatives were also found to be resistant to fusarium wilt, root rot, pod borer, and aphid infestations. The standard agronomy of these cultivars has also been assessed consecutively for 2 years at SKUAST. Overall, the pre-breeding efforts have resulted in the development of early maturing, high-yielding, and disease-resistant lentil cultivars for the Jammu region of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic base revealed by pedigree records of the majority of released cultivars appears to be narrow in major pulse crops, including lentils, because of the frequent use of the same parents and their derivatives in crop improvement programs. Therefore, corrective measures are needed to widen the genetic base by involving the genetic resources of a distinct gene pool. In this direction, rigorous efforts were made to introgress wild Lens taxa, L. culinaris ssp. orientalis, and L. ervoides into the backgrounds of cultivated varieties. Subsequently, genetic materials were advanced through the single seed descent method of breeding along with a rapid generation advancement (normal and off-season) approach. Two F10:11 interspecific derivatives of lentils were evaluated in augmented block design at two locations, viz. International Centre for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas (ICARDA) and Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST), India. The analysis of variance showed remarkable variability for all target characters at both locations. The heritability estimates were high, and correlation analysis exhibited a significant association between the majority of traits assessed at ICARDA and SKUAST, India. Further, SKUAST identified the most promising lines as “Jammu Lentil 144” and “Jammu Lentil 71.” These derivatives were further validated separately for their agronomic potential and resistance against major biotic stresses. The results revealed that Jammu Lentil 144 and Jammu Lentil 71 produced 16.65 and 9.40% more seed yield than local and national checks, including earliness, by 25 and 15 days, respectively. These promising interspecific derivatives were also found to be resistant to fusarium wilt, root rot, pod borer, and aphid infestations. The standard agronomy of these cultivars has also been assessed consecutively for 2 years at SKUAST. Overall, the pre-breeding efforts have resulted in the development of early maturing, high-yielding, and disease-resistant lentil cultivars for the Jammu region of India.

‘Hop’ (Humulus lupulus) cultivar trials were conducted at sites in three Virginia counties (Northampton, Chesterfield, and Madison) in response to demand by the craft beer industry for local ingredients. In 2016, a replicated study involving five cultivars (Cascade, Chinook, Newport, Nugget, and Zeus) was established on an 18-ft-tall trellis system at each site. Weather data influencing infectivity of downy mildew (Pseudoperonospora humuli) and powdery mildew (Podosphaera macularis), two economically important hop diseases, was collected, and to the extent possible, similar cultural practices were applied at each site. Climatic conditions favorable to P. humuli and P. macularis were present throughout the experimental period, and P. humuli infection was widespread at all sites starting from 2017. Among common pests, Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) was the only one observed to cause significant damage. Unseasonably high rainfall in 2018 led to crop failure at all but the Northampton site, and harvesting was done at all sites only in 2017 and 2019. Yields (kilograms per hectare by weight) in 2017 were found to be ≥45% lower than second-year estimates for yards in the north and northwestern United States. Quality attributes (α and β acids; essential oil) for cones harvested from the Chesterfield site were comparable to published ranges for ‘Cascade’ in 2019, but lower for the other cultivars. More work is needed to identify or develop cultivars better suited to conditions in the southeastern United States. The influence of terroir on quality of commercial cultivars produced in the region should also be examined.

A winter wheat composite cross population (CCP), created in the UK in 2001, has been grown in Germany, Hungary, and the UK since 2005 (F5 generation). In 2008/09 (F8), a cycling pattern for the populations was developed between partners to test the effects of rapidly changing environments on agronomic performance and morphological characteristics. One CCP was grown by eight partners for one year and subsequently sent to the next partner, creating “cycling CCPs” with different histories. In 2013, all eight cycling CCPs and the three non-cycling CCPs (from Germany, Hungary, and the UK) were included in a two-year experiment in Germany with three line varieties as references. Differing seed weights of the F13 at sowing affected some agronomic parameters under drought conditions in 2014/15 but not under less stressful conditions in 2013/14. In both experimental years, the CCPs were comparable to the line varieties in terms of agronomic performance, with some CCPs yielding more than the varieties under the drought conditions of 2015. The results highlight the potential of CCPs to compete with line varieties, while the overall similarity of the CCPs based on their origin and cycling history for agronomic traits indicates a high buffering potential under highly variable environmental conditions.

Sugarcane is an important cash crop and is affected by soil salinity. CoM 0265, a moderately salt-tolerant variety grown in the Maharashtra region (India), has low sugar content. The present study was aimed to employ gamma ray induced in vitro mutagenesis with repeated and step-wise selection in sugarcane for the isolation and physio-biochemical profiling of the selected salt-tolerant mutants for improved agronomic performance and sugar content. Embryogenic callus culture of CoM 0265 variety was subjected to different doses of gamma radiation (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 Gy) followed by selection on NaCl containing media (50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mM NaCl). The regenerated plantlets were hardened and selected based on ground nursery field trial on normal soil and saline field trial, in augmented block design for the selected mutant clones. Different physio-biochemical changes and activity of antioxidant enzymes were analyzed in the salt selected in vitro cultures and field-grown mutant clones. Dose optimization showed 40 Gy as the LD50 for gamma radiation and 150 mM NaCl as the dose for in vitro selection experiments. The selected mutant clones showed higher tissue water content (TWC), chlorophyll, and lower sodium content indicative of tolerance to salt stress. Catalase and peroxidase enzyme activities in the top visible dewlap (TVD) of the putative mutant clones were significantly higher than the control. The average yield and sucrose percent of the selected mutant clones were significantly higher than control checks in the saline field trial. Mutant clones M8457 and M8721 exhibited improved yield and commercial cane sugar over the parent control check varieties under saline field conditions. Catalase activity was strongly associated with TWC (r = 0.34) and chlorophyll content (r = 0.41) while it was negatively correlated with sodium ion content (r = –0.38). Peroxidase activity in TVD also showed a significant positive correlation with chlorophyll content (r = 0.42) and a negative correlation with sodium ion content (r=–0.39). The improvement in yield and CCS (t/ha) was strongly associated with the lower sodium ion content of the mutant clones (r=–0.54 and −0.53, respectively). Gamma ray induced mutants were isolated for improved sucrose and high yield in sugarcane var. CoM 0265. The results suggest that gamma radiation induced mutations result in physiological and metabolomic alterations for better growth and adaptation under in vitro and field stress conditions in sugarcane. The improved mutants can be further useful for commercial cultivation in saline areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of genetic diversity in lentil is imperative for selection of parental genotypes that could yield heterotic combinations. The aim of the present study was to investigate the genetic diversity among 43 diverse lentil genotypes to identify complementary and unique genotypes for breeding programmes. Field experimentation was carried out in two winter seasons (2019–2020 and 2020–2021) in Hisar (29°10′ N, 75°46′ E) using randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. The chi-square test analysis showed significant genotypic variation for qualitative traits. There was substantial genetic variation among the genotypes for most quantitative traits, connoting the need to exploit a high degree of genetic variation through selection. Multiple-trait selection would also be beneficial, as seed yield was positively associated with most quantitative traits. The principal component analysis recognized seed yield (SY), days to 50% flowering (DTF), days to maturity (DTM), number of pods per plant (NPP), number of primary branches (NPB), plant height (PH) and biological yield (BY) as target traits that prominently described variation within lentil genotypes. The cluster analysis discriminated the lentil genotypes into five discrete clusters. Cluster III and V were the most distant groups, implying wider diversity among the genotypes of these groups. Furthermore, cluster analysis identified genotypes IPL 316, LH 17-19, LH 18-04, LH 17-17, IPL 81 and Pant L-8 as high-yielding genotypes, while L 4717 was identified as an early-maturing genotype. Therefore, to obtain a broad spectrum of early-maturing high-yielding segregants, the selected genotypes may serve as superior parental lines for structuring breeding strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of disease resistance is considered an important aspect of phenotyping for crop improvement. Identification of advanced lines of the common bean with disease resistance contributes to improved grain yields. This study aimed to determine the response of the photosynthetic apparatus to natural pathogen infection by using chlorophyll (Chla) fluorescence parameters and their relationship to the agronomic performance of 59 common bean lines and comparing the photosynthetic responses of naturally infected vs. healthy leaves. The study was conducted over two seasons under acid soil and high temperature conditions in the western Amazon region of Colombia. A disease susceptibility index (DSI) was developed and validated using chlorophyll a (Chla) fluorescence as a tool to identify Mesoamerican and Andean lines of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) that are resistant to pathogens. A negative effect on the functional status of the photosynthetic apparatus was found with the presence of pathogen infection, a situation that allowed the identification of four typologies based on the DSI values ((i) moderately resistant; (ii) moderately susceptible; (iii) susceptible; and (iv) highly susceptible). Moderately resistant lines, five of them from the Mesoamerican gene pool (ALB 350, SMC 200, BFS 10, SER 16, SMN 27) and one from the Andean gene pool (DAB 295), allocated a higher proportion of energy to photochemical processes, which increased the rate of electron transfer resulting in a lower sensitivity to disease stress. This photosynthetic response was associated with lower values of DSI, which translated into an increase in the accumulation of dry matter accumulation in different plant organs (leaves, stem, pods and roots). Thus, DSI values based on chlorophyll fluorescence response to pathogen infection could serve as a phenotyping tool for evaluating advanced common bean lines. Six common bean lines (ALB 350, BFS 10, DAB 295, SER 16, SMC 200 and SMN 27) were identified as less sensitive to disease stress under field conditions in the western Amazon region of Colombia, and these could serve as useful parents for improving the common bean for multiple stress resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intercropping is a common practice among smallholder farmers cultivating common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and maize (Zea mays L.). It affects agronomic performance, dry matter partitioning, and grain yield. Simultaneous intercropping of common bean with maize can influence growth, development, and dry matter partitioning of grain of common bean. The main objectives of this study are to: (i) evaluate the dynamics of growth and development of the different vegetative organs, and (ii) determine the efficiency in dry matter partitioning to yield components of two common bean lines grown under monoculture compared with two simultaneous intercropping patterns (pattern 1, pattern 2) with maize and managed with two types of fertilizer application. A randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications was used in a nested trifactorial arrangement in split-plot scheme. The field experiment was conducted in two seasons under conditions of acid soils and high temperatures in the western Amazon region of Colombia. Simultaneous intercropping patterns 1 and 2 had a negative effect on growth dynamics of maize compared to maize monoculture. But the two bean lines when associated with maize showed no significant differences on growth dynamics under both types of fertilizer application. Under both intercropping patterns, the maize cobs were larger, a condition that increased the number of grains, but with smaller size of grains compared to monoculture. In the case of two bean lines, the growth and development responses were different: under monoculture the number of pods and seeds per plant was higher while the number of grains per pod increased under intercropping patterns. Among the two bean lines, 100-seed weight was significantly higher in BFS 10 compared to ALB 121. At the grain yield level of common bean, the simultaneous intercropping pattern increased 516 kg ha−1 and 993 kg ha−1 more than that obtained in monoculture (4936 kg ha−1) with inorganic and organic fertilizer, respectively. Results from this study indicated that smallholders in the Amazon region of Colombia can achieve higher grain yield through the implementation of simultaneous intercropping of maize with common bean line (BFS 10) under organic fertilizer application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]