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Accurate yield estimation of passion fruits is essential for planning acreage and harvest timing. However, due to the complexity of the natural environment and tracking instability, the existing yield estimation methods suffer from excessively large models that are difficult to deploy or repetitive counting of fruit. Therefore, an improved approach for efficient passion fruit yield estimation was proposed using the lightweight YOLOv5s and improved DeepSORT. First, the video is fed into the proposed lightweight YOLOv5s called YOLOv5s-little to obtain coordinates and confidence information about the fruits within each frame. Then, the information obtained from the detection model is input into improved DeepSORT for continuous frame tracking of passion fruit. Considering the frequent error IDs (ID switching), two improvements based on DeepSORT are proposed: delaying the creation of tracks and adding a second round of IoU matching. Finally, to overcome the problem of repetitive counting, a specific tracking counting method based on the track information and state is used for accurate passion fruit counting. Our method achieved a competitive result in tests. YOLOv5s-little detector achieved precision of 98.9%, 98.3% recall, 99.5% mAP, and only 0.9MB model size. The improved DeepSORT algorithm achieved higher order tracking accuracy (HOTA) of 79.6%, multi-object tracking accuracy (MOTA) of 92.58%, identification F1 (IDF1) of 95.02%, and ID switch (IDSW) of 11 respectively. Compared with DeepSORT, it improved by 4.66%, 1.8%, and 9.16% in HOTA, MOTA and IDF1, respectively, and IDSW improved the most with 85%. Compared with FairMOT and TransTrack, the HOTA of YOLOv5s-little + improved DeepSORT achieved improvements of 11.56% and 25.24%, respectively. The statistical average counting accuracy of our proposed counting method reaches 95.1%, which is a 7.09% improvement over the maximum ID value counting method. The counting results from test videos are highly correlated with the manual counting results ( R 2 = 0.96), indicating that the counting method has high accuracy and effectiveness. These results show that YOLOv5s-little + improved DeepSORT can meet the practical needs of passion fruit yield estimation in real scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of water deficit severity and the specific growth stages at which water stress is applied have been found to have significant implications for both tomato yield and fruit quality. Recent findings have highlighted the influence of water deficits during the reproductive phase on tomato fruit quality. This study aimed to assess the effects of deficit irrigation on tomato fruit quality and overall plant productivity. Cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) were grown in a greenhouse from August to November 2022. Three distinct watering regimes were implemented: Daily watering (T1), watering every 3 days (T2) and watering every 7 days (T3), starting from the flowering stage and continuing through subsequent plant development stages. The mean soil metric potentials (SMP) were -4.9, -29.7 and -52.8 kPa for T1, T2 and T3, respectively. Various traits of fruit size, fruit biomass, total soluble solids (TSS), water content, glucose content and lycopene content were measured. Additionally, the overall plant biomass and root-to-shoot ratio were evaluated. The results revealed that traits of the fruit size, such as diameter, length, volume and fresh weight, were most favorable when plants were subjected to the T2 watering regime, while higher and lower watering frequencies led to smaller fruit sizes. Interestingly, the TSS concentration had the most pronounced response to drought stress, indicating increased fruit sweetness. However, the fruit water content, glucose content and lycopene content remained unaffected by the different watering regimes. Furthermore, plants subjected to the T3 with the minimum SMP at -196.4 kPa exhibited enhanced development of the root system, prioritizing resource acquisition such as water and mineral nutrients over shoot components. In conclusion, this study provided valuable insights for agricultural practitioners, offering a range of alternatives that can inform optimal irrigation strategies that effectively enhance the quality of cherry tomato yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bell pepper has received high demand due to its high nutritional value and contained antioxidant compounds. This research aimed to evaluate the effects of sucrose and some minerals on morpho-physiological characteristics, yield parameters, and carbohydrate partitioning in the bell pepper. The pot experiment was outlined hydroponically in a factorial format based on a completely randomized design. The first factor, sucrose, was sprayed in two concentrations (0 and 0.5% w/v) and the second factor, mineral nutrition, consisted of four levels (control, magnesium nitrate 0.5% w/v, potassium nitrate 0.5% w/v, magnesium nitrate 0.25% w/v + potassium nitrate 0.25% w/v). Results indicated that sucrose 5 + combined magnesium & potassium nitrate was superior in all of the biomass and yield parameters. In this combined treatment, fruit yield per plant and fruit vitamin C increased up to 44.03% and 47.71% in comparison with control. The highest leaf-soluble carbohydrate was recorded in plants treated with sucrose 5 + combined magnesium & potassium nitrate which was not significantly different from other contained sucrose treatments. The highest fruit soluble carbohydrate was observed in sucrose 5 + combined magnesium & potassium nitrate treatment as well, but its difference was not significant from sucrose 5 + potassium nitrate. The highest leaf potassium concentration was seen in three treatments that combined sucrose and minerals. The treatment of combined magnesium & potassium nitrate contributed to more leaf magnesium concentration compared with other nutrient treatments. In total, sucrose spray alongside combined magnesium & potassium nitrate led to higher carbohydrate accumulation in fruit, causing yield increment and nutritional value enhancement in bell peppers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pakistan's economy greatly benefits from citrus production since these fruits are sold and consumed all over the world. Although citrus fruits are easy to cultivate, they are susceptible to diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. These challenges, as well as difficulties in obtaining the proper nutrients, might negatively impact fruit yields and quality. Citrus canker is another complicated problem caused by the germ Xanthomonas axonopodis. This germ affects many types of citrus fruits all over the world. This study looked closely at how citrus canker affects the leaves and the quality of the fruit in places like Sargodha, Bhalwal, Kotmomin, and Silanwali, which are big areas for growing citrus in the Sargodha district. What we found was that plants without the disease had more chlorophyll in their leaves compared to the sick plants. Also, the healthy plants had better amounts of important minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus in their fruits. But the fruits with the disease had too much sodium, and the iron levels were a bit different. The fruits with the disease also didn't have as much of something that protects them called antioxidants, which made them more likely to get sick. This study helps us understand how citrus canker affects plants and fruit, so we can think of ways to deal with it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mandarin fruits are the most widely grown citrus fruits in the world, particularly in the eastern Himalayas of India, which is the primary center of citrus diversity. Diagnosing potential nutritional imbalances using leaf tissue analysis is a mandatory practice for a higher yield. Regarding the nutritional diagnosis of Khasi mandarin plants, particularly in the acidic soil of the hilly ecology of the Eastern Himalayas, India, there is currently no information available. Therefore, the present study was conducted to identify nutrient constraints, establish leaf-based diagnostic recommended and integrated system (DRIS) norms, and determine nutrients' relationship with fruit yields in 144 orchards. The result showed that the DRIS indices predicted a nutritional optimum value for Khasi mandarin: 2.26–2.83% N, 0.11–0.16% P, 1.86–2.07% K, 1.85–2.12% Ca, 0.33–0.48% Mg, 170.10–225.10 mg kg−1 Fe, 74.03–83.43 mg kg−1 Mn, 1.24–2.45 mg kg−1 Cu, and 19.84–21.28 mg kg−1 Zn. The DRIS norms identified the nutrients Zn, P, Ca, K, N, and Mg as deficient to low levels (14.15→2.14), while Fe, Mn, and Cu were at high to excessive levels (5.50→18.25). The nutritional balance index had a significantly negative relationship with the fruit yield. Leaf nutrient concentrations of N (0.909**), P (0.827**), K (0.867**), Zn (0.833**), Ca (0.827**), and Mg (0.592**) had a significant positive correlation with fruit yield. The finding will facilitate the correct interpretation of leaf nutrient analysis, and the norms developed will enable a precise intervention through nutrient management for higher yields in mandarin citrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-stimulants are gaining importance for elevating the stagnated yield level resulting from continuous use of chemical fertilizers (CF) in many crops, however, their use in pomegranate have not been fully explored. Two years of field experiments were conducted on a 5-years old pomegranate cv. Bhagwa orchard to investigate the effects of different combinations of commercial bio-stimulant products namely, microbial-based product A containing consortium of Rhizophagus spp. (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract-based granular formulation D (30 kg ha−1) and liquid formulation B (625 and 1250 ml ha−1) through soil application as well as wettable granular formulation, C (1 and 2 g l−1) and liquid formulation, E (1 ml l−1) through foliar sprays along with chemical fertilizers on soil fertility, trees' nutrition, fruit yield and quality of pomegranate. Results showed that integrated use of CF and bio-stimulants significantly increased the number of bisexual flowers. However, the combination of microbial-based product A (5 kg ha−1), seaweed extract based liquid formulation B (625 ml ha−1) in soil and foliar spary of seaweed extract based wettable granular formulation C (1–2 g l−1) with CF resulted in production of the highest fruit yield (increased by 41.97–51.61%) with 23.08–33.38% increase in the exportable grade fruit and improved quality attributes viz. ascorbic acid, anthocyanin, non-reducing sugar, protein, and mineral content of fruits through enhancement in soil fertility and trees' micronutrient status compared to only CF. These doses combinations of bio-stimulants along with CF gave rise to the highest benefit–cost ratio of 2.10–2.34:1 and hence can be recommended for sustainable pomegranate cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During industrial licorice production, considerable amounts of licorice root residues (LRR) are produced. The use of these residues as an agricultural production input could be beneficial to sustainable economic growth and the environment. Therefore, we evaluated the application of LRR to some growth media at (v/v) [100% soil (S), 100% LRR (L), 50% soil + 50% LRR (SL), 50% perlite + 50% LRR (PL), 50% cocopeat + 50% LRR (CL), and 25% soil + 25% perlite + 25% cocopeat + 25% LRR (SPCL)] plus humic acid (HA) (0, 5, 10, or 15 gl−1) during bell pepper production. Results showed that LRR application plus HA fertigation significantly improved the vegetative and reproductive growth and mineral content of pepper. The highest fresh weight (shoot and root), plant height, root length, leaf number, and chlorophyll content were observed for plants treated with SPCL + 15 gl−1 HA. The highest number of flowers (18.08), fruits per plant, fruit length and diameter, fruit fresh weight, and yield were associated with the peppers grown under SPCL. Deformed fruits significantly increased in the S treatment whereas no deformed fruits were observed under the SPCL treatment. The highest leaf K, Ca, Fe, and Zn contents were observed in the medium culture containing 25% LRR (SPCL) + 15 gl−1 HA. The findings revealed that the use of SPCL + 15 gl−1 HA fertigation could provide the best conditions for fruit production by bell pepper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herkogamy is the spatial separation of anthers and stigmas within complete flowers, and is a key floral trait that promotes outcrossing in many angiosperms. The degree of separation between pollen-producing anthers and receptive stigmas has been shown to influence rates of selfpollination amongst plants, with a reduction in herkogamy increasing rates of successful selfing in self-compatible species. Self-pollination is becoming a critical issue in horticultural crops grown in environments where biotic pollinators are limited, absent, or difficult to utilise. In these cases, poor pollination results in reduced yield and misshapen fruit. Whilst there is a growing body of work elucidating the genetic basis of floral organ development, the genetic and environmental control points regulating herkogamy are poorly understood. A better understanding of the developmental and regulatory pathways involved in establishing varying degrees of herkogamy is needed to provide insights into the production of flowers more adept at selfing to produce consistent, high-quality fruit. This review presents our current understanding of herkogamy from a genetics and hormonal perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit yield and quality in fig (Ficus carica L.) are highly influenced by mineral nutrition, especially Calcium (Ca) and potassium (K). In this study, the impact of soluble potassium sulfate (K2SO4) foliar application on yield, fruit quality, and leaf nutrient content was assessed during three consecutive years (2017-2019) on fig cv. 'Bouhouli' grown in Northwest Tunisia. Potassium sulfate was sprayed at 2% concentration on leaves of 'Bouhouli' trees twice each year during fruit development. This improved fruit weight by 29.5% and 34.9% in the first and second years, respectively, while yield and fruit quality were improved in 2018 only. The fruit ostiole-end cracking, which is one of the fruit quality criteria, was reduced under potassium treatment by 3-fold (17%) compared to the control (53%), in 2018. Also, potassium treatment increased significantly the content of total soluble solids in the fruits during the first two seasons. Besides, K leaf concentration significantly increased after the 2% K2SO4 treatment in 2018 and 2019. These results suggest that potassium sulfate foliar sprays could be used as part of an efficient and sustainable fertilizer program to improve fig tree yield and fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to investigate fruit yield and quality characteristics among new nectarine cultivars grown in the eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey. 'Gardeta', 'Gartario', and 'Garofa' nectarine cultivars were cultivated on 'GN15' rootstock. The flowering stage, fruit set percentage, yield, and fruit quality properties of these cultivars were investigated between 2018 and 2021. During the study, chill requirements ranged between 391 and 600 chilling hours and between 207 and 361 chill units in the area, and huge values were obtained for the average initial fruit set above 60% and the final fruit set above 45%. 'Gardeta' had the highest cumulative yield per tree (80.15 kg tree-1) and cumulative yield per hectare (133.04 tons ha-1). The fruit size, Total Soluble Solids (TSS) content, and fruit coloration were homogeneously distributed in all three cultivars. In addition, the Flowering (F) and Initial Fruit Set (IFS) characters were negatively correlated with Fruit Weight (FW), Fruit Length (FLE), and Fruit Diameter (FD). As a result, the 'Gardeta' was found remarkable with late flowering, the highest yield, and superior fruit quality characteristics such as size, red skin color, and high TSS/total acidity values in the eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey. In addition, the date of Full Flowering (FF) and Fruit Firmness (FF) were negatively correlated with fruit Skin color L* (SL), C (SC), and h° (SH) variables. The results demonstrated that the new nectarine cultivars used here showed changes in yield parameters and fruit quality attributes depending on the genotypic and environmental effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water availability is a limiting factor to plant development and productivity. Many drought‐induced physiological processes that affect patterns of growth, biomass allocation, and ultimately, yield, are also regulated by the red/far‐red photoreceptor phytochromes (PHYs). However, as the mechanisms and responses to drought stress vary among plant developmental phases, it is reasonable to conjecture that PHY‐dependent morphophysiological responses to drought may be different according to the plant growth stage. In this study, we submitted tomato phyB1 mutant plants to water deficit in two distinct growth stages, during vegetative and flower‐bearing reproductive phases, comparing the morphophysiological development, fruit yield and quality to wild‐type (WT). In general, phyB1 plants overcome growth limitations imposed by water availability limitations during vegetative phase, being taller and leafier than WT. Restrictions to growth are less acute for both genotypes when water deficit occurs during reproductive phase compared to vegetative phase. phyB1 yield is lower when water is limited during reproductive phase, but its fruits accumulate more soluble solids, associated with better quality. These results highlight that drought‐induced modulations in tomato growth and yield are dependent upon PHYB1 regulation and the developmental phase when water deficit is applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cultivated strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) has a brief history of less than 300 yr, beginning with the hybridization of octoploids Fragaria chiloensis and Fragaria virginiana. Here we explored the genomic signatures of early domestication and subsequent diversification for different climates using whole-genome sequences of 289 wild, heirloom, and modern varieties from two major breeding programs in the United States. Four nonadmixed wild octoploid populations were identified, with recurrent introgression among the sympatric populations. The proportion of F. virginiana ancestry increased by 20% in modern varieties over initial hybrids, and the proportion of F. chiloensis subsp. pacifica rose from 0% to 3.4%. Effective population size rapidly declined during early breeding. Meanwhile, divergent selection for distinct environments reshaped wild allelic origins in 21 out of 28 chromosomes. Overlapping divergent selective sweeps in natural and domesticated populations revealed 16 convergent genomic signatures that may be important for climatic adaptation. Despite 20 breeding cycles since initial hybridization, more than half of loci underlying yield and fruit size are still not under artificial selection. These insights add clarity to the domestication and breeding history of what is now the most widely cultivated fruit in the world. Whole-genome sequences of 289 octoploid strawberry samples were used to explore the genomic signatures of domestication and subsequent diversification in different climates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) is an important underutilized fruit crop. There is currently limited information available on the genetic background of longans, which is a key bottleneck in longan improvement. Studies on the extent of genetic variability and genetic divergence are crucial and it can provide relevant information which can be very useful for crop improvement programmes. In the present study, a total of 54 qualitative and quantitative traits were investigated of 20 different longan genotypes to determine the morphological and physiochemical traits that. Results revealed that the significant variability existed in the studied traits except few. Among the qualitative traits petiole colour, leaflet curvature, young leaf colour, mature leaf colour, branching density, leaflet midrib colour, abundance of flower, trunk surface, fruit maturity group, and tree vigour were showed more than the average value of Shannon's diversity index. Higher PCV and GCV recorded for several traits viz., tree volume followed by aril weight, number of fruits per branch, aril/seed weight ratio, trunk girth, TSS acid ratio, aril thickness, number of days from panicle initiation to flowering, titratable acidity, width of inflorescence, length of inflorescence, petiole length, fruit weight, plant height, crown diameter and rachis length. High heritability estimates coupled with high genetic advance as % of mean were recorded for the traits viz., plant height, trunk girth, crown diameter, tree volume, rachis and petiole length, number of days from panicle initiation to flowering, length and width of inflorescence, number of fruits per bunch, fruit, aril and seed weight, aril thickness, fruit colour-a, titratable acidity and TSS acid ratio which is indicative of additive gene action and selection based on these traits would be more reliable. According to the Mahalanobis D2 statistic, twenty diverse genotypes were grouped into eight groups. The presence of genetic divergence was also tested in cluster means by the significant amount of variability for various variables. Therefore, this study's findings imply that these genotypes have variability in terms of fruit quality traits, yield and traits that contribute to yield, and other agronomic traits that could be useful in future crop improvement initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

DNA marker technology, being an alternative to classical hybrid selection approach, is a rapid method for identifying genes and loci associated with breeding-important traits at the early stages of ontogenesis, and, consequently, represents an approach for intensifying the breeding process. This review presents an overview of the studies on the identification of the economically important traits in the pear genome, as well as the development and use of marker-assisted selection (MAS) techniques. To date, a number of genetic factors have been identified in the pear genome, including the resistance to diseases and pests, namely, the resistance to European pear scab (V. pirina Aderh) and Asian pear scab (V. nashicola), to black spot (Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler) and brown spot (Stemphylium vesicarium) disease, fire blight (Erwinia amylovora), pear psylla (Cacopsylla pyri), pear slug (Caliroacerasi), pear blister mite (Eriophyes pyri), self-incompatibility locus, and dwarf trait gene. Major genes and quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for the fruit quality characteristics have also been identified, namely those controlling fruit skin color and fruit russeting, fruit size and weight, taste, the level of ethylene production, and harvest time. It should be noted that Russian studies in this field are limited to the validation and use of MAS techniques developed abroad. According to the experience of Japanese researchers, the use of MAS for several key traits had considerably increased the efficiency of breeding process. Despite the currently limited list of MAS techniques for pears, the high pace of genome research guarantees fairly rapid development of new methods in the future. In combination with new breeding technologies (NBT), the use of MAS for pear is a promising trend in breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduction in crop productivity due to drought stress, is a major concern in agriculture. Drought stress usually disrupts photosynthesis by triggering oxidative stress and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The use of zinc-quantum dot biochar (ZQDB) and proline (Pro) can be effective techniques to overcome this issue. Biochar has the potential to improve the water use efficiency while proline can play an imperative role in minimization of adverse impacts of ROS Proline, functioning as an osmotic protector, efficiently mitigates the adverse effects of heavy metals on plants by maintaining cellular structure, scavenging free radicals, and ensuring the stability of cellular integrity. That's why current study explored the impact of ZQDB and proline on chili growth under drought stress. Four treatments, i.e., control, 0.4%ZQDB, 0.1 mM Pro, and 0.4%ZQDB + Pro, were applied in 4 replications following the complete randomized design. Results exhibited that 0.4%ZQDB + Pro caused an increases in chili plant dry weight (29.28%), plant height (28.12%), fruit length (29.20%), fruit girth (59.81%), and fruit yield (55.78%) over control under drought stress. A significant increment in chlorophyll a (18.97%), chlorophyll b (49.02%), and total chlorophyll (26.67%), compared to control under drought stress, confirmed the effectiveness of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro. Furthermore, improvement in leaves N, P, and K concentration over control validated the efficacy of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro against drought stress. In conclusion, 0.4%ZQDB + Pro can mitigate drought stress in chili. More investigations are suggested to declare 0.4%ZQDB + Pro as promising amendment for mitigation of drought stress in other crops as well under changing climatic situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Silicon and nanosilicon mitigating the adverse effects of cadmium stress in fruit trees. • Silicon application enhancing the antioxidative capacity of fruit trees under cadmium stress. • Silicon supplementation increased fruit yield and reduced cadmium accumulation. • Silicon and nano silicon reduced oxidative damage in fruit crops under cadmium stress. For quality fruit production, balance fertilization and irrigation with good quality water had significant effects. The commercial production of fruits is badly affected due to heavy metals accumulation in soil. Among heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) is found in higher amount which greatly accumulate in fruits. Hence, consumption of such fruits causing different diseases in humans. Cd induced conditions decreased growth, yield and deteriorate fruit quality globally. Soil contaminated with Cd is mainly due to urbanization, industrialization and frequent application of chemicals. The absorption, uptake, translocation and accumulation of Cd is toxic for fruit crops. Cd stress resulted in oxidative stress and injury of cell wall due to toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Cell wall important functioning is protection from heavy metals entry into cytoplasm. Fruit tree produces antioxidant compounds which acts as scavengers of toxic ROS. Different management approaches i.e. molecular basis, mineral nutrients and proteomics can be adopted for mitigation of adverse of Cd on fruit crops. Among mineral nutrients, silicon (Si) and silicon nano-particles (Si-NPs) sprays are effective for mitigation of negative effects of Cd toxicity on fruit crops by improving antioxidant activities, osmolytes and photosynthetic pigments resulted in improved growth, yield, and quality. Current study encourages the application of Si and Si-NPs on fruit trees under Cd stress conditions. However, Si-NPs are more effective as compared to Si bulk form due to easier passage into cell wall. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Strawberry plants supplemented with nutrient formulation 2 (hydroponic) perform better growth and showed 2.19-fold increase in fruit yield as compared to soil control group plants. • Strawberry plants grown in Treatment 3 (semi- hydroponic) perform better growth and had 3.08-fold increase in fruit yield as compared to soil control group plants. • Strawberry plants cultivated in soilless hydroponics showed better growth, nutrient uptake, physiology, fruit yield and anthocyanin content. The widely grown octoploid strawberry (2n = 8x = 56) (Fragaria × Ananassa Duch.), cherished for its delectable flavour, rich nutritional content, and pleasing aroma has consistently held a significant position in global fruit market. Despite of rising demand, strawberry plants are not grown universally, likely due to variations in weather conditions across regions, available of infectious soil pathogen and insufficient knowledge of soilless hydroponic cultivation. The current research aims to establish an efficient nutrient medium that enhances the growth and yield of strawberry (Fragaria × Ananassa Duch.) Cv. Winter Dawn, using soilless hydroponic and semi-hydroponic cultivation methods. The fruit fresh weight and total fruit yield of formulation 2 treated plants (EC 2.41 mScm−1) in hydroponic condition exhibited a 1.73-fold and 2.18-fold higher respectively as compared to soil control plants. Among the five different growing medium treatments in semi-hydroponic condition, the fresh weight and total strawberry fruit yield was found to be maximum in treatment 3 and observed 2.04-fold and 3.03-fold increase respectively as compared to plants grown in soil control condition. The high yield may be due to higher uptake of macronutrients (NPK) by the plants supplemented with F2 formulation and T3 substrate medium the plants. As a result, the strawberry fruits of these plants accumulated higher amount of anthocyanin, which ultimately enhanced the fruit quality. The studies concluded that formulation 2 in hydroponic and treatment 3 in semi-hydroponic were most effective in terms of growth, nutrient uptake, physiology, fruit yield and anthocyanin content. The result of this study gives an alternative to the farmers for cultivation of strawberry plants in soilless hydroponic and semi-hydroponic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating the stability of local areca nut accession across seasons and years is vital to understanding the production trend and potential. Genotypes with stability across seasons and years indicate their adaptability to different climates, pests, and disease attacks over time. This study aimed to evaluate the fruit and seed weights of 14 Indonesian local areca nut accessions to elucidate the G x E effect on these traits. The research transpired at the Kayuwatu Experimental Station, Palm Research Institute, Manado, North Sulawesi Province, from January 2017 to December 2021. The genetic materials were 14 accessions of areca nut, along with two earlier released local varieties (Emas Areca nut and Betara Areca nut). The experiment ran for five years in one location. The research showed that the G x E interaction significantly affected the fruit and seed weights. The Malinow 1 genotype had the heaviest fruit weight of 57.46 g, and the Betara genotype had a seed weight of 20.06 g. According to a parametric assessment, stable accessions were Betara, Galangsuka, Pinangwangi, SK1, and Malinow 1, and they had above-average fruit and seed weights. This study revealed different stability profiles among areca nut accessions, substantiating the importance of the G x E effect on yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the inheritance pattern of petalous and apetalous traits in yellow sarson (Brassica rapa var yellow sarson) and its significance for breeding efforts. Utilizing three crucial crosses between petalous (Pant Sweta, Pant Girija, YSH0401) and 'apetalous' parents, we observed the absence of apetalous plants in the F1 generation, indicating dominant inheritance of petalous plants. The F2 generation consistently displayed a 3:1 ratio of petalous to apetalous plants, confirming the dominance of the petalous trait. Chi-squared tests on each generation supported this conclusion. Backcrosses with petalous parents yielded no fruit, reinforcing the dominance of the petalous trait. Chi-squared tests on these backcrosses further confirmed the dominance inheritance pattern. Conversely, backcrosses with apetalous parents consistently exhibited a 1:1 ratio, highlighting the recessive nature of the apetalous trait. The study underscores the importance of understanding the inheritance pattern of petalous and apetalous traits in B. rapa var yellow sarson crop, as it has implications for breeding goals. Knowledge on trait inheritance can guide future breeding strategies, facilitating the transfer of the apetalous trait as needed. This study provides valuable insights for genetic investigations and breeding initiatives in B. rapa var yellow sarson. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nitrogen plays a crucial role in growth cycling and development, thereby influencing the plant growth and productivity. Understanding the interactions between nitrogen uptake with different irrigation regimes and source of nitrogen fertilizers could provide a valuable insight for optimizing tomato production. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effect of nitrogen uptake on tomato production under different nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation regimes. Methods: The field experiment was carried out during 2022-2023 in split plot design with two irrigation main plots treatments and five different nitrogen fertilizer subplot treatments. Irrigation treatments consisted of 0.8 and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio and the nitrogen fertilizer treatments comprised of conventional urea, neem coated urea, ammonium sulfate, nano-urea and vermicompost. Result: A higher nitrogen uptake was observed in the treatment combination of 0.8 and 1.0 IW/CPE ratio with vermicompost and nano-urea fertilizer applied treatments. Additionally, optimal irrigation conditions positively influenced nitrogen uptake and subsequent tomato fruit yield. This finding emphasizes the importance of considering nitrogen uptake when determining nitrogen fertilizer rates and irrigation management strategies for tomato production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One invasive species that decreases citrus fruit yield is the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama. The psyllids are the carriers of Candidatus Liberibacter species, the pathogen that causes citrus greening disease (commonly called huanglongbing, or HLB), which is the most devastating citrus disease in the world. Originally from Southeast Asia, the Asian citrus psyllid, a highly invasive species, is spreading rapidly throughout the world. Regarding geographical distribution and population growth, climate change will aggravate its impacts on many citrus agroecosystems. However, limited information on the mechanisms underpinning the pest's invasion impedes the formulation of biosecurity risk measures. We highlight the potential suitable areas for D. citri, combining their climatic requirements, temperature and humidity, in the CLIMEX model. The model's performance was high, and it can be utilized for biosecurity risk assessment, as only 2.82% of the 496 known occurrence spots were located in areas deemed unsuitable by the model's fit. The potential habitat suitability for D. citri covered all continents except Antarctica, and the suitability ranges from unsuitable (EI < 0) to highly suitable areas (EI ≥ 30). Our model predicted suitable areas outside its known native and invaded regions, especially in Africa, South America, and Oceania. Most of these regions will remain suitable for D. citri in the future. This underscores the importance of our findings as a significant guide for future early detection and the development of climate-smart management strategies against D. citri. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The AquaCrop model for Bengal gram successfully matches the biomass and yield of reported crop data under various planting dates, according to results that have been validated. Further this study was carried out in different agroclimatic zones of Tamil Nadu to assess variations in yield and water requirement. Methods: In order to simulate realistic yields for the Bengal gram in response to planting date impacts in the Guziliamparai Block in the Dindugal District of Tamil Nadu, the study parameterized and verified performance of the AquaCrop model. Four field trials planted in D1-1st November, D2-15th November, D3-1st December and D4-15th December provided the model calibration data. Result: Fruit yield and biomass had R2 values of 0.9 and 0.8, respectively, indicating strong agreement between observed and model-simulated data. Fruit output and biomass were found to have RMSE values of 0.4 and 0.2, respectively. The NRMSE values for fruit yield and biomass were determined to be 0.3 and 0.1, respectively. The AquaCrop model somewhat overestimated fruit production and biomass since the BIAS was less than 0.4 and 0.2 for yield and biomass, respectively. Fruit production and biomass showed less agreement between simulated and actual D levels (0.4 to 0.6). The Aqua Crop model for bengal gram successfully matches the biomass and yield of reported crop data under various planting dates, according to results that have been validated. Further this study was carried out in different agroclimatic zones of Tamil Nadu to assess variations in yield and water requirement. Across Tamil Nadu's ACZ, a 2°C temperature increase decreased the yield by an average of 6%, with minimums of 2% and maximums of 13%. An rise in temperature of 3°C and 4°C, respectively, decreased the yield by 9% and 19% on average. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberries are by far the most produced soft fruit (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries) worldwide, with China and the US being the two countries with the most production. In the US, strawberries reached a farm gate value of more than USD 3 billion in 2023 and are predominantly grown in the open field on an annual cycle in hilled-up soil beds using plastic mulch (plasticulture). This process relies on adequate pre-plant fertilizer application for plant establishment and fruit development. In North Carolina (US), it is current practice to apply pre-plant fertilizer containing 67 nitrogen (N) kg/ha; however, with increasing fertilizer costs and environmental concerns, questions remain as to whether or not pre-plant full-spectrum fertilizer rates can be reduced and substituted with organic low-N fertilizer sources, such as Polysulphate, without impacting yield or fruit quality. For this reason, field trials were established to evaluate the impact of pre-plant fertilizer rates on strawberry production ('Camarosa'). Trials were conducted in the 2019–2020 and 2020–2021 seasons at two locations in North Carolina. The following N-rate pre-plant fertilizer treatments were applied: 80.1, 67.3, 54.1, 41.1, 33.6, 28.0, and 0 kg/ha. NO3 and NH4 content were frequently assessed in each replicate in the raised bed profile between planting and spring fertilizer application. Marketable and total strawberry yields were assessed over 6 weeks in the spring of 2020 and 2021. Our trial results showed that, especially in sandy soil, N rapidly declined under plastic within the first 8 weeks after pre-plant fertilizer application. However, no impact between pre-plant fertilizer rates and plant yield was observed. Treatments that contained Polysulphate and lower amounts of full-spectrum fertilizer showed significantly lower N concentrations in the soil while maintaining similar yields and fruit quality compared to grower-standard pre-plant fertilizer treatments. In summary, our results show that it is possible to reduce N content in pre-plant fertilizer by up to 50% compared to current recommendations without causing yield loss in short-day strawberry cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujubes (Ziziphus jujuba) are a crucial industry in the arid region of Xinjiang, facing challenges such as water scarcity and low water use efficiency. This study focuses on jujube orchards located at the edge of the Taklimakan Desert to investigate whether applying trace elements can effectively enhance jujube growth, development, and fruit quality. By foliar spraying boron and zinc micro-fertilizers onto jujube leaves, we analyzed the effects of different doses on growth parameters, photosynthetic activity, crop yield, water use efficiency, and fruit quality. The results revealed that the length of the fruit branch, leaf area index, and fruit longitudinal/transverse diameter increased by 19.35%, 25.72%, and 32.9%/2.28%, respectively; net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, and stomatal conductance increased by 105.51%, 91.43%, and 75.3%, respectively, while intercellular CO2 concentration decreased by 13.09%; yield and water use efficiency improved by 16.95% and 12.68%, respectively; soluble sugar content, titratable acid content, and flavonoid content increased by 13.56%, 51.63%, and 86.12%, respectively. Based on these findings, the optimal application rate for boron micro-fertilizer was determined to be 3.51~3.59 kg/hm2, and for zinc micro-fertilizer, it was 3.16~3.32 kg/hm2. This study provides practical methods along with theoretical support for applying micro-fertilizers in arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the world seeks alternatives to fossil fuels, agrivoltaics offer a promising solution by integrating solar panels with farming practices. This review examines three key agrivoltaic setups—static tilted, full-sun tracking, and agronomic tracking—dissecting their engineering features' roles in optimizing both the electricity yield and the fruit productivity of some fruit crops. We emphasize the microclimatic modifications induced by agrivoltaic systems, mainly encompassing changes in solar radiation, air temperature, humidity, and wind. The data collected in this survey reveal a strong spatial heterogeneity distribution over different locations and a significant influence on fruit crops' growth, yield, and quality, with variations among species. Such findings on the overall performance recommend a 30% shading threshold to prevent substantial declines in fruit characteristics, i.e., fruit yield and quality. Shading conditions over this threshold influence the leaf morphophysiological characteristics, impacting the photosynthesis capacity and fruit dry matter accumulation. This emphasizes the importance of further investigation into spectral radiation quality and carbon assimilation kinetics as daily responses for different fruit species to be cultivated in such new environments. Starting from this point, this review underscores the need to extend studies on various fruit crops, particularly those cultivated in semi-arid horticultural regions (i.e., for saving water), and suggests the use of comprehensive and standardized indicators for comparability across studies. Finally, the authors conclude that engineering improvements, along with new research programs on agrivoltaic systems, could lead to agricultural, environmental, and economic sustainability, as well as their practical implementation and attractiveness to farmers in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study is to determine the effects of minimal pruning (MP) and unpruned&unheaded (UP&UH) on young Fernor walnut cultivar trees concerning, tree growth, yield, nut quality and water use efficiency. The trees in the research orchard were planted in 2017. According to the data, a statistically significant difference was found between (MP) and (UP&UH) in terms of shoot length, canopy length, tree height, yield, kernel weight, kernel ratio and nut length. The two-year cumulative yield value was found to be 6036.28 g in (MP) and 9865.87 g in (UP&UH). The stem water potential values (GSP), (MPa) of (MP) and (UP&UH) were 7.65 and 7.50, respectively. Considering the significant difference in yield between two pruning methods, it has been observed that water use efficiency is higher in (UP&UH). If water deficiency and insufficient fertilization are combined with (UP&UH), significant losses in tree growth, yield and nut quality can occur. In this context, (UP&UH) should be considered along with other factors that will affect tree growth, yield and fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pineapple is a tropical fruit with high demand by the fruit market in Brazil. Fruits of the cultivar ´Turiaçu` stans out in local consumer markets due to its excellent quality. The objective of this work was to evaluate ecophysiological responses of ´Turiaçu` pineapple plants at the vegetative and reproductive stages to soil fertilization and crop location, and their effects in fruit yield. The study was conducted in the cities of São Luís and Turiaçu, MA, Brazil. Plants under mineral and organic fertilization in two locations, São Luís and Turiaçu, and in two seasons, dry and rainy season, were evaluated during dry and rainy seasons. Chlorophyll index, photochemical efficiency, gas exchange, and fruit yield were evaluated. The pineapple plants presented decrease in the photosynthetic activity, at both developmental stages and in both seasons, when grown in São Luís. The CO2 photosynthetic assimilation decreased. The PSI and PSII activity, according with photosynthetic index, was more sensitive at the reproductive than at the vegetative stage. The organic fertilization was not appropriate for the ´Turiaçu` pineapple crops, regardless of the crop location. The fruit yields were 54.4% and 57.9% lower in São Luís, under mineral and organic fertilization, respectively. Thus, the ecophysiology of ´Turiaçu` pineapple was more affected by water availability than by soil fertility in the municipality of Turiaçu. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) is a widely cultivated vegetable crop worldwide, including in Fiji. However, the suitability of tomato cultivation under greenhouse conditions in the central region of Fiji, which experiences salinity issues, remains unclear. Methods: A pot experiment was conducted at the Instructional Agricultural Farm Complex of the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Fiji National University, Fiji, to determine the effect of different levels of salinity on the growth and yield of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) varieties. The experiment included two factors: three tomato varieties (V1= Melrose; V2= Alton; V3= Alafua Large) and four levels of NaCl salinity (T1= Control; T2= 2 dSm-1; T3= 4 dSm-1 and T4= 8 dSm-1) randomized thrice in a randomized complete block design. The effects of various varieties and salinity levels on tomato yield were studied in this experiment. Result: The results revealed that variety Alafua Large performed comparatively better in all cases. This recorded maximum fruit length (4.22 cm), fruit breadth (3.31 cm), individual fruit weight (45.60 g), number of fruits (7.83) and fruit yield (352.10 g) whereas Alton recorded the minimum of the above yield attributes. In the case of the combined effect of variety and salinity, Alafua Large showed better yield (432.17 g and 394.51 g) per plant than the other varieties when combined with the lower salinity level i.e., EC 2 dSm-1 and 4 dSm-1, respectively. The yield of tomato varieties declined with the increasing salinity level condition. The yield of Alafua Large was 194.54 g when applied with the highest level of salinity i.e., EC 8 dSm-1 and the yield of Alton was 64.69 g which was the lowest yield among the varieties with the highest level of salinity condition. Therefore, from the results, Alafua Large is comparatively more salt tolerant than the other varieties which were studied in this experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilizer requirement for the crop should be based on yield response to the added fertilizer nutrient, nutrient requirements of a crop, nutrient supply from indigenous sources and the fate of added fertilizers to the soil in the short and long term. Thus, the soil test crop response (STCR) approach can be adopted for calculating fertilizer requirements by crops. The field experiments were conducted at the Eastern Dry Zone of Karnataka, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, in three phases. Soil test data, yield and NPK uptake by brinjal crop were used for achieving four important basic parameters, viz. nutrient requirement, contribution of nutrients from fertilizers, soil and organic manure, to develop the targeted yield equation and these equations were validated in comparison with Low-Medium-High (LMH) approach and generally recommended dose (GRD). It was found that 1.11, 0.46, and 0.30 kg of N, P2O5, and K2O respectively were required for producing one quintal of brinjal fruit under integrated approach. The contribution of NPK from soil toward crop uptake was 26.07%, 5.94% and 36.89% respectively; from organic manure was 16.15%, 8.66% and 31.55% respectively and from fertilizers was 42.27, 11.73 and 170.84% respectively. The STCR integrated approach with FYM, at the target yields 35 and 30 t ha−1, enhanced the fruit yield to an extent of 12.90% and 9.94%, respectively, over GRD. It also exhibited higher NPK uptake and use efficiency and better profitability. Hence integrated STCR targeted yield approach could be sustainable nutrient management option(s) for improving the productivity of brinjal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus fruit yield is essential for market stability, as it allows businesses to plan for production and distribution. However, yield estimation is a complex and time-consuming process that often requires a large number of field samples to ensure representativeness. To address this challenge, we investigated the optimal altitude for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imaging to estimate the yield of Citrus unshiu fruit. We captured images from five different altitudes (30 m, 50 m, 70 m, 90 m, and 110 m), and determined that a resolution of approximately 5 pixels/cm is necessary for reliable estimation of fruit size based on the average diameter of C. unshiu fruit (46.7 mm). Additionally, we found that histogram equalization of the images improved fruit count estimation compared to using untreated images. At the images from 30 m height, the normal image estimates fruit numbers as 73, 55, and 88. However, the histogram equalized image estimates 88, 71, 105. The actual number of fruits is 124, 88, and 141. Using a Vegetation Index such as IPCA showed a similar estimation value to histogram equalization, but I1 estimation represents a gap to actual yields. Our results provide a valuable database for future UAV field investigations of citrus fruit yield. Using flying platforms like UAVs can provide a step towards adopting this sort of model spanning ever greater regions at a cheap cost, with this system generating accurate results in this manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduction in crop productivity due to drought stress, is a major concern in agriculture. Drought stress usually disrupts photosynthesis by triggering oxidative stress and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS). The use of zinc-quantum dot biochar (ZQDB) and proline (Pro) can be effective techniques to overcome this issue. Biochar has the potential to improve the water use efficiency while proline can play an imperative role in minimization of adverse impacts of ROS Proline, functioning as an osmotic protector, efficiently mitigates the adverse effects of heavy metals on plants by maintaining cellular structure, scavenging free radicals, and ensuring the stability of cellular integrity. That's why current study explored the impact of ZQDB and proline on chili growth under drought stress. Four treatments, i.e., control, 0.4%ZQDB, 0.1 mM Pro, and 0.4%ZQDB + Pro, were applied in 4 replications following the complete randomized design. Results exhibited that 0.4%ZQDB + Pro caused an increases in chili plant dry weight (29.28%), plant height (28.12%), fruit length (29.20%), fruit girth (59.81%), and fruit yield (55.78%) over control under drought stress. A significant increment in chlorophyll a (18.97%), chlorophyll b (49.02%), and total chlorophyll (26.67%), compared to control under drought stress, confirmed the effectiveness of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro. Furthermore, improvement in leaves N, P, and K concentration over control validated the efficacy of 0.4%ZQDB + Pro against drought stress. In conclusion, 0.4%ZQDB + Pro can mitigate drought stress in chili. More investigations are suggested to declare 0.4%ZQDB + Pro as promising amendment for mitigation of drought stress in other crops as well under changing climatic situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Required iron (Fe) for the growing plants in soilless culture could be obtained from various Fe sources such as chelates and ferrous sulfate (FeSO4). Despite the low cost of FeSO4, this source is rarely used due to the low Fe solubility at a high pH. Here, the role of sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) in improving growth and iron availability in strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa cv. Paros) grown in FeSO4 culture solution was reported. The plants were grown hydroponically with two Fe sources, Fe-EDTA and FeSO4 along with three levels (0, 0.2, and 0.5 mM (of H2S donor, NaHS. The results showed that vegetative growth and yield of strawberry under FeSO4 source were lower than Fe-EDTA treated plants. Using NaHS significantly improved vegetative and reproductive growth, yield, chlorophyll SPAD value, maximum efficiency of photosystem II (Fv/Fm), and Fe availability of strawberries under FeSO4 source. Exogenously applied NaHS reduced the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) production and electrolyte leakage (EL) in the leaves by enhancing enzymatic antioxidant activity (ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase) in FeSO4 source. Moreover, NaHS affected fruit yield under Fe-EDTA utilization and showed a significant increase in yield amount (by 29.75%) compared to control. In general, there were no significant differences between the two levels of NaHS, 0.2 and 0.5 mM. Our results indicated that H2S affects the maintenance of cell membrane integrity and subsequently iron availability by strengthening the enzymatic antioxidant system and reducing oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production sustainability is affected by climate change and land destruction, which exacerbates the challenge of food security. In addition to ensuring food security, fortification of products is a potential approach to enhance their nutritional quality and safety. Climate change has a significant effect on pre-harvest physiology. Water and soil salinity reduce the yield and quality of products. On the other hand, long-term drought stress reduces the supply of nutrients and cracks the pomegranate fruit. Therefore, it increases susceptibility to fungal diseases, which reduces commercial value. Pre-harvest factors significantly affect post-harvest physiology and quality characteristics related to storage life. Therefore, it is necessary to use efficient and cost-effective strategies to resist environmental stress and enhance yield. Meanwhile, the management of nutrients and plant growth regulators (PGRs) plays an essential role in plant resistance against abiotic stresses and determines their distribution and survival. Therefore, proper management practices are necessary for sustainable production. This paper reviewed and discussed recent advances regarding the foliar application of important nutrients, and PGRs, which increase the yield and quality of pomegranate fruit. In conclusion, foliar application of fertilizers, nanofertilizers, and nanoparticles include Fe, Zn, Ca, K, Br, Se and some PGRs such as salicylic acid and gibberellic acid, and kaolin can be used to increase yield, improve nutritional quality, reduce disorders and also decrease postharvest losses of pomegranate fruit during storage. However, further research in various commercial pomegranate cultivars is necessary to recommend for practical application at harvest and after cold storage of pomegranate fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Achieving a larger berry size accompanied with even ripening are demanded by producers in growing muscadine cultivars. The current study aimed to evaluate the impact of fruit thinning on berry size and quality in two muscadine grape cultivars, 'Triumph' a bronze‐fruited cultivar bearing hermaphrodite flowers, and 'Supreme' a dark black‐fruited cultivar bearing female flowers. Thinning was performed before bunch closure and only one cluster per cane was retained. RESULTS: Results indicated a significant interaction of treatments and cultivars on berry weight and berry diameter. In 'Supreme,' berry weight and berry diameter were significantly increased where thinning was performed, and difference in plant yield between thinned and not thinned vines was not significant. For 'Triumph,' thinning had no significant impact on berry weight and diameter, but yield was ultimately reduced. Other physico‐chemical characters were not affected by fruit thinning. However, differences were observed between both cultivars for these characters. The values of antioxidant scavenging activity (ASA) and total phenolic content (TPC) were 62.7% and 21.7% higher in 'Supreme' as compared to 'Triumph,' irrespective of the thinning treatments. Being a colored cultivar, 'Supreme' berries have higher anthocyanins than 'Triumph,' which has a negligible amount of anthocyanins. The ASA exhibited a strong positive correlation with TPC and anthocyanin content of muscadine grapes. There was also a significant positive correlation between TPC and anthocyanins. CONCLUSION: Cluster thinning of some muscadine grape cultivars may improve individual berry size without affecting overall plant yield or the fruit color, firmness, biochemical attributes and bioactive compounds. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted in a greenhouse to determine the effects of different supplemental light spectra on the growth, nutrient uptake, and fruit quality of four strawberry cultivars. The plants were grown under natural light and treated with blue (460 nm), red (660 nm), and red/blue (3:1) lights. Results showed that the "Parous" and "Camarosa" had higher fresh and dry mass of leaves, roots, and crowns compared to the "Sabrina" and "Albion". The use of artificial LED lights improved the vegetative growth of strawberry plants. All three supplemental light spectra significantly increased the early fruit yield of cultivars except for "Parous". The red/blue supplemental light spectrum also increased the fruit mass and length of the "Albion". Supplemental light increased the total chlorophyll in "Camarosa" and "Albion", as well as the total soluble solids in fruits. The "Albion" had the highest concentration of fruit anthocyanin, while the "Sabrina" had the lowest. The use of supplemental light spectra significantly increased the fruit anthocyanin concentration in all cultivars. Without supplemental light, the "Camarosa" had the lowest concentration of K and Mg, which increased to the highest concentration with the use of supplemental light spectra. All three spectra increased Fe concentration to the highest value in the "Sabrina", while only the red/blue light spectrum was effective on the "Camarosa". In conclusion, the use of supplemental light can increase the yield and fruit quality of strawberries by elevating nutrients, chlorophyll, and anthocyanin concentrations in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To alleviate the contradiction between the shortage of freshwater resources and the rapid development of industries and agriculture in China, field experiments were conducted to study the response of tomatoes to different water salinity (ECi) levels under drip irrigation in coastal semi-humid areas and arid areas. The effects of water salinity on salt accumulation in the root zone, tomato growth, yield, yield components, and quality response were investigated. The results indicated that the electrical conductivity of the soil saturation extract (ECe) increased with the irrigation water salinity. In semi-humid area, the maximum ECe was not higher than 5 dS/m, and the value was lower in wet year, at approximately 2 dS/m. In arid area, the ECe increased in the first year and then tended to balance. The ECe exceeded 4 dS/m when the ECi is higher than 6.6 dS/m. Salinity hindered the yield of tomatoes, which was mainly manifested by a reduced fruit diameter, fruit number, and single fruit weight. The salinity thresholds that tomato can endure without yield reduction 1.8 dS/m in semi-humid area and 2.1 dS/m in arid area, when ECe of root zone exceeded the threshold, for every 1 dS/m increase in ECe, the relative yield decreased by 14% and 12%, respectively. Nevertheless, tomato fruit quality is improved under saline water irrigation. Vitamin C (VC) content shows a significant quadratic curve relationship with ECe, and the maximum appeared at 4.0 dS/m in semi-humid area and 5.9 dS/m in arid area. Total sugar (TS) and total acid (TA) contents were significantly improved in arid area, for every 1 dS/m increase in ECe, the relative TS and TA increased by 12.8% and 20.3%, respectively. From the comprehensive point of saving water, avoiding yield reduction, and improving tomato fruit quality, saline water of about 6.3 dS/m and 4.9 dS/m is suggested for drip irrigation of tomatoes in semi-humid areas and arid areas in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article I suggest how a moderated form of pause or withdrawal may yield relational fruit in contexts of interpersonal encounter. Consequently, I posit that mystical nothingness – otherwise known as Ayin in Jewish mystical lore – offers a promising way forward, and indicate how it may be synonymous with Buberian concreteness and inclusion. In conclusion, I explore the Tsaddik as a metaphor that highlights not only the relevance of Ayin or nothingness interpersonally, but also its complementarity with the I and Thou encounter as envisaged by Martin Buber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploitation of heterosis is one of the potential means for improvement of sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum var. grossum L.) that can further be utilized for identification of desirable recombinants. Promising hybrids could be acceptable to growers of tropical and subtropical climates if it is a high yielder with attractive fruit colour and blocky shape. Seven diverse parents were selected through multivariate analysis and were crossed in half diallel mating design to determine the extent of heterosis, mode of gene action, combining ability effects, and dominance estimates for 18 quantitative characters. Expression of fruit colour and shape at physiological maturity stage in the F1 generation indicated the dominance of red coloured group over other fruit colour groups and dominance of blocky fruit shape over elongate and round fruit shape. Preponderance of non-additive gene action for most of the characters under study suggested the usefulness of exploitation of hybrid vigour. Three genotypes, 8/4, C/4, and Baby Bell were found most promising donors. The hybrids, Arya×Baby Bell, 8/4×Baby Bell and C/4×8/4 were identified as promising based on per se performance, heterosis manifested, and relevance of specific combining ability effects, for possible commercialization under low cost protected structure of tropical and subtropical climates after critical testing. Partial to over dominance response in inheritance of most traits contributed to the genetic basis of heterosis. Isolation of pure lines from the segregating generation of heterotic hybrids emerged as a promising approach to develop line-bred variety having improved fruit yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Even though super-high-density plantation systems could maximise yield per acre and induce an early entry production, a few research studies have been conducted on citrus crops in the Mediterranean Basin. In this study, we assessed the suitability of 'Salustiana' orange trees (Citrus sinensis) on two dwarfing rootstocks [Forner-Alcaide 418 (FA418) and Forner-Alcaide 517 (FA517)] under super-high-density plantation systems. Tree growth, yield and fruit quality of 'Salustiana' on both citrus rootstocks were evaluated. Furthermore, the suitability of mechanical harvesting was evaluated using an over-the-row continuous canopy shaker for this citrus plantation system. For this last purpose, the effects of mechanical harvesting on fruit detachment and fruit harvested and tree damage were analysed. The results showed that 'Salustiana' orange on FA517 obtained a better response than on FA418 in terms of vegetative growth, effective yield and fruit quality under super high-density conditions, also displaying a better response to mechanical harvesting with a high detachment efficiency of fruits. It emphasised the relevance of proper mechanical pruning to reduce the tree damage and improve the detachment efficiency by this canopy shaker. Thus, although the over-the-row canopy shaker requires some technical improvements, it showed a high potential for harvesting super-high-density citrus crops for the juice industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating genetic diversity simplifies the identification of superior genotypes, facilitating the development of high-yielding, resilient to climatic conditions and promoting effective crop improvement. The present study aimed to examine the divergence, correlation and path analysis across 55 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) germplasms for 17 traits during the summer season (March-July) of 2022. The experiment utilized randomized complete block design with three replications conducted in Phagwara, Punjab. Analysis of variance suggested a sufficient amount of genetic variation was found among all genotypes. Using Mahalanobis D2 analysis, the samples were classified into seven clusters, the largest being cluster I, composing 34 germplasm. Only one germplasm was found in Clusters II, IV, V, VI, and VII. The inter-cluster distance was highest between clusters II and VII, whereas the intra-cluster distance was greatest in Cluster III. The number of fruits per plant had the highest percent contribution to the divergence, accounting for 49.63%. At both phenotypic and genotypic levels, there was a strong positive correlation (+) observed between fruit yield and various characteristics, including plant height, fruit length, number of fruits per plant, number of marketable fruits per plant, average fruit weight, and the number of pickings. Genotypic path analysis revealed that characteristics such as the first flowering node, days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, plant height, inter-nodal length, number of nodes per plant, number of fruits per plant, marketable fruits per plant, and average fruit weight exhibited a positive and direct effect on fruit yield. When selecting this trait to improve yield in okra through breeding, it is essential to focus on specific characteristics that directly contribute to higher production. This research will help resilient okra varieties understand yieldinfluencing factors in Punjab environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apples are one of the most important economic crops worldwide. Because of global warming and an aggravation of environmental, abnormally high temperatures occur frequently in fruit-growing season and seriously affect normal fruit growth and reduce fruit quality and yield. We took five-year-old 'Ruixue' (Qinfu 1 x Pink Lady; CNA20151469.1) fruits as test materials, and the ambient temperature during fruit development was monitored. The results showed that during the fruit-growing season, especially during the rapid growth stage (July to August), the maximum daily temperature exceeded 30 °C and lasted for more than 40 days. To determine the effects of high temperature stress on the apple fruit resistance, we treated expanding, veraison, and maturity-period fruits at different temperatures. It was found that the fruits of the expanding period showed strong resistance to high temperature stress, whereas during veraison and maturity, fruit resistance to high temperature stress decreased, and the fruit peel browning phenotype appeared. Meanwhile, the content of malonaldehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and superoxide anion (...) in the peel gradually increased with increasing temperature. The content of total phenols, flavanol, and flavonoids in the peel decreased substantially at 45 #176;C. Moreover, it was found that polyphenol oxidase gene (MdPPO1) was most sensitive to high temperature stress in apple. Furthermore, transient and stable MdPPO1 overexpression significantly promoted peel browning. The transgenic materials were more sensitive to high temperatures, and browning was more severe compared to non-genetically modified organism (WT). Stable MdPPO1 knockout calli obtained via clustered regularly interspersed short palindromic repeats (CRISPR/Cas9) gene knockout technology reduced the browning phenotype, and the resultant fruits were not sensitive to the effects of high temperature stress. Thus, MdPPO1 expression may be a key factor of high temperatureerelated changes observed in the browning phenotype that provides a scientific theoretical basis for the selection of high temperatureeresistant varieties and apple cultivation and management in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Zinc (Zn) deficiency is widespread in citrus orchard around the world, which impairs plant growth and fruit yield. Zn fertilization is usually recommended in field orchards, and application strategies toward nutrient use efficiency are key for successful crop management. Methods: Field studies were carried out with sweet orange trees for four growing seasons, testing Zn (nitrate, sulfate or EDTA) applied either via fertigation or foliar spray compared to a control without Zn. Results: The Zn concentrations in the soil increased with nutrient supply by both application methods. Zn-EDTA via fertigation increased soil nutrient availability compared to the control. Likewise, Zn-nitrate via foliar application also increased soil Zn levels. Regarding the plant, Zn-EDTA via fertigation increased leaf nutrient levels only after the third year of fertilization, whereas Zn-nitrate via foliar spray increased leaf levels in the short term, up to 120 mg kg−1. To a lesser extent, Zn-EDTA or sulfate also increased leaf Zn compared to the control. Accumulated fruit yield was ~20% higher in trees with Zn-EDTA via fertigation and ~ 20% higher in trees with Zn-nitrate or sulfate via foliar application compared to the control, with these latter exerting greater responses. Trees supplied with Zn exhibited lower H2O2 and higher CAT activity compared to the control, which correlated with a fruit yield increase. Conclusion: In conclusion, Zn-EDTA via fertigation or nitrate or sulfate via foliar application improved the horticultural performance of trees, supporting the establishment of best nutrient management practices in fruit production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

According to their position within a tree canopy, fruits will be exposed to varied climatic conditions especially light and temperature, which would reflect variation in their growth and maturation. In the present study, the differences occurring in vegetative growth, fruit yield and quality of Costata persimmon in accordance with rootstock type and fruit position in the canopy were investigated. Periphery especially, both southern and western directions besides the upper part and the outer canopy side indicated the highest values of fruit retention, average fruit number per shoot, fruit yield, spring shoot length, leaf area, total leaf area per fruit and leaf chlorophyll content. While the percentage of sunburned fruits was lower at both northern and eastern directions, as well as at the lower and inner part than the other directions of tree canopy. The best fruit physiochemical characteristics were found in both western and southern directions, as well as the upper part and outer part of the tree canopy. Trees grown on seedy rootstock gave the highest values of fruit yield, shoot length, leaf area and total leaf area per fruit. Along with lower sunburned fruits, longer, wider, heavier and firmer fruits were also found on Seedy rootstock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compared supplemental white light-emitting diode (LED) light provided on top of the canopy (top-light) or partially on top and partially as intracanopy light (ICL) in high-wire cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) crops. The aim was to determine the effects of partially substituting top-light by ICL on fruit yield and its underlying yield components. For each crop, three replicate Venlo glasshouse compartments were used. Two cucumber (HiPower and Skyson) and two tomato cultivars (Brioso and Merlice) were planted in the second half of Oct 2020 and grown on stone wool for a period of 15 weeks (cucumber) or 20 weeks (tomato). Light was supplied at either a light intensity of 250 or 375 mmol.m22.s21, provided either as 100% top-light or as 67% (2/3) top-light and 33% (1/3) ICL. For cucumber at the higher light intensity, 50% more fruits were retained and for tomato at the higher light intensity, planting density was 50% higher to keep the plants balanced in terms of source-to-sink ratio. Substituting 33% of top-light with ICL resulted on average in an increase of 17% in fresh fruit yield for both cucumber and tomato. This increase was twice as high at the higher light intensity (20% to 24%) compared with the lower light intensity (10% to 12%). For both cucumber and tomato, the higher yield for ICL treatments resulted mainly from higher total plant dry weight, whereas partitioning to the fruits was hardly affected. For both crops, the higher plant dry weight resulted from a higher light use efficiency. Increasing light intensity from 250 to 375 mmol.m22.s21 resulted in 38% higher total daily light integral (including solar radiation) and 36% to 37% higher total plant dry weight in cucumber. In tomato, the higher light intensity resulted in 33% higher daily light integral and 36% to 40% total plant dry weight. These values are in agreement with the rule of thumb that 1% increment in light results in 1% increase in plant growth. For cucumber, partially substituting top-light by ICL as well as increasing light intensity resulted in longer and greener fruits, whereas tomato fruit quality (Brix, pH) was unaffected by ICL or light intensity. In conclusion, partially substituting top-light by intracanopy light increased fruit yield and this was even more so at higher than at lower supplemental light intensities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of melons (Cucumis melo L.) in greenhouses relies on pollination. Extreme temperature and insufficient light reduce not only flower visitation by pollinators but also pollen viability, resulting in inefficient pollination. In this study, we investigated the effects of forchlorfenuron [(N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N0-phenylurea (CPPU)] on the fruit setting and growth of oriental melons (C. melo L. var. makuwa Makino). The primary objective was to devise a new strategy for the management of oriental melons. Treatment with 5 mg·L21 CPPU a day before flowering (T1), on the day of flowering (T2), and a day after flowering (T3) increased the fruit setting rate (by 20.1% to 30%) in melons subjected to artificial pollination (AP) or no pollination (NP) compared with the rate in those subjected to only artificial pollination without CPPU (CK). CPPU treatment induced unfertilized seeds; in addition, a tendency toward parthenocarpy was noted. The highest fruit setting rate (~95%) was noted in plants subjected to the following treatments: AP+T1 and NP+T3. The rates of abnormal fruit formation decreased from 45.2% of CK group to 9.4% in plants subjected to AP+T1 and to 19.4% in those subjected to NP+T3. Elevated exogenous concentrations of CPPU markedly increased fruit weight. Plants subjected to NP+10 mg·L21 CPPU bore the heaviest fruits (541.0 g), which were heavier than those borne by plants subjected to AP+10 mg·L21 CPPU. CPPU treatment reduced the fruit cavity ratio in a concentration-dependent manner from 47.3% to 33.6% and increased the pulp thickness from 1.5 to 2.5 cm. Notably, supplementary CPPU treatment exerted no significant effects on fruit traits. Regarding taste, inconsistent results were obtained for sugar accumulation. Although the content of cucurbitacin B increased immediately after the initial CPPU treatment, it markedly decreased after 15 days of CPPU treatment. Therefore, mature melons did not have a bitter taste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is an increasing interest in producing organic tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) in high tunnels (HTs) in the southeast United States. HTs are unheated, passively cooled structures that allow tomato growers to harvest high-quality fruit out of season. However, excessive temperatures inside HTs may negatively impact tomato plant growth and fruit yield. Shade nets have been reported to reduce temperatures inside the HTs. Plastic mulch color has also significantly influenced plant growth and yield under high-temperature conditions. This study aimed to determine the effects of shade net color and plastic mulch color on plant growth, fruit yield, and incidence of tomato yellow leaf curl disease (TYLC) in 'Red Snapper' tomato grown in HTs under elevated temperatures (summer-fall) in southern Georgia, USA. Organic 'Red Snapper' tomato seedlings were transplanted in HTs in 2019 (Season 1) and 2020 (Season 2). The design was a split-plot randomized block where the main plots were externally mounted shade nets (black, silver, and unshaded; 30% shade factor), and the subplots were plastic mulches (black and white). Compared with black mulch, white mulch improved plant height and stem diameter but did not influence fruit yields. Shade nets reduced HT air temperature and root zone temperature (RZT) but did not affect plant height and stem diameter. The diminished photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) under the shade nets reduced marketable fruit yield. Thus, shade nets are not recommended once heat challenges do not limit HT tomato production in Georgia (after about mid-October). Shade nets and plastic mulch inconsistently affected TYLC incidence, severity, and area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC). Additional fruit yield reductions occurred due to TYLC because the incidence was 100% 6 weeks after transplanting. Preliminary insect data showed that shade net treatments had similar sweetpotato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) numbers. The high TYLC incidence indicates that 'Red Snapper' may not be suitable for fall HT tomato production in the southeast United States. More research on shading and heat stress management in HT organic tomato production is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of gene-editing tools, such as zinc finger nucleases, TALEN, and CRISPR/Cas, allows for the modification of physiological, morphological, and other characteristics in a wide range of crops to mitigate the negative effects of stress caused by anthropogenic climate change or biotic stresses. Importantly, these tools have the potential to improve crop resilience and increase yields in response to challenging environmental conditions. This review provides an overview of gene-editing techniques used in plants, focusing on the cultivated tomatoes. Several dozen genes that have been successfully edited with the CRISPR/Cas system were selected for inclusion to illustrate the possibilities of this technology in improving fruit yield and quality, tolerance to pathogens, or responses to drought and soil salinity, among other factors. Examples are also given of how the domestication of wild species can be accelerated using CRISPR/Cas to generate new crops that are better adapted to the new climatic situation or suited to use in indoor agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]