Journal Description
Horticulturae
Horticulturae
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The Spanish Society of Horticultural Sciences (SECH) is affiliated with Horticulturae and its members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, FSTA, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Horticulture) / CiteScore - Q2 (Horticulture)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.1 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Integration of RNA-Seq and Metabolite Analysis Reveals the Key Floral Scent Biosynthetic Genes in Herbaceous Peony
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060617 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Floral scent is an essential and genetically complex trait in herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.); however, specific genes related to metabolic and regulatory networks remain scantily studied. Our study integrated metabolite profiling and RNA-sequencing to screen floral scent biosynthetic genes. Hence, the
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Floral scent is an essential and genetically complex trait in herbaceous peonies (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.); however, specific genes related to metabolic and regulatory networks remain scantily studied. Our study integrated metabolite profiling and RNA-sequencing to screen floral scent biosynthetic genes. Hence, the major molecules identified by headspace collection combined with cultivar-specific GC-MS analysis were geraniol, β-caryophyllene, 2-phenylethanol (2-PE), citronellol, and 1,8-cineole. Genes related to terpenoids and 2-PE biosynthesis were identified after the assembly and annotation of the P. lactiflora transcriptomes. Eight angiosperm-specific terpene synthases (TPSs) from the TPS-a and TPS-b clades, as well as enzymes linked to 2-PE synthesis such as aromatic amino acid decarboxylase (AADC), phenylacetaldehyde reductase (PAR), and geranial reductase (GER) were identified. The biochemical analysis of the enzymes encoded by PlPAR1 and PlGER1 generated 2-PE from phenylacetaldehyde (PAld). The pairwise alignment of AADC1 reveals a splice variant lacking a 124 bp fragment, thus highlighting the possible role of alternative splicing in modulating floral scent composition. This study offers insights into the molecular-level biosynthesis of terpenoids and 2-PE in Peonia taxa, and provides the basis for the functional characterization, breeding, and bioengineering of prospective candidate genes for the production of floral volatiles in the Paeonia genus.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Storage Duration and Temperature on Browning and Quality of Postharvest Bamboo Shoots
by
Pei-Rong Wu, San-Gwang Hwang, Chang-Lin Chen and Huey-Ling Lin
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060616 (registering DOI) - 10 Jun 2024
Abstract
Due to the high respiration rate and ethylene production at the cut surface of bamboo (Dendrocalamus latifloxus Munro) shoots after harvesting, browning and lignification at the cut surface reduce their quality and shelf life. Due to the demand of consumers, using physical
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Due to the high respiration rate and ethylene production at the cut surface of bamboo (Dendrocalamus latifloxus Munro) shoots after harvesting, browning and lignification at the cut surface reduce their quality and shelf life. Due to the demand of consumers, using physical treatment to inhibit microbial growth and maintain quality has become more and more popular. In this study, bamboo shoots were treated with hot water at 70 °C for 30 s after harvesting and then stored at 1, 3, or 5 °C for 4 weeks to measure the quality change. Our results show that the L* value and h° angle at the cut surface of the bamboo shoots were significantly higher, but the respiration rate was significantly lower when stored at 1 °C compared with those at 3 and 5 °C. In terms of quality, the bamboo shoots showed lower firmness and cutting force values, and no decay was observed at 1 °C. The results from the shelf simulation test with rewarming of the cold-treated bamboo shoots at ambient temperature (25 °C) for 1 day indicated that the L* value and h° angle were significantly higher for the bamboo shoots stored at 1 °C compared with those stored at 3 and 5 °C. Taken together, browning and lignification at the cut surface were effectively inhibited, quality was maintained, and the storage life could be extended to 4 weeks at 1 °C.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress on Ripening and Postharvest Biology of Horticulture Crops)
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Comparative Cell Wall Polysaccharide Analyses and Transcriptome Profiling during Fruit Ripening Reveal the Molecular Basis of Mealiness in Peach
by
Hongmei Wang, Ang Li, Wenfang Zeng, Zhenyu Yao, Akhi Badrunnesa, Junren Meng, Yule Miao, Liang Niu, Lei Pan, Guochao Cui, Wenyi Duan, Shihang Sun, Guohuai Li and Zhiqiang Wang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060615 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mealy peaches are dry and flavorless, which reduces their consumer acceptance. A deeper understanding of the mechanism underlying mealiness is crucial to enhancing peach fruit quality. In this study, comparative profiling was conducted on CP13, CP14, CM, and RM peaches. Sensory evaluation indicated
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Mealy peaches are dry and flavorless, which reduces their consumer acceptance. A deeper understanding of the mechanism underlying mealiness is crucial to enhancing peach fruit quality. In this study, comparative profiling was conducted on CP13, CP14, CM, and RM peaches. Sensory evaluation indicated that CP13 and CM are non-mealy clingstone and freestone peaches, respectively, and CP14 and RM are mealy freestone peaches. Both CP13 and CP14, identified as stony hard (SH) peaches, exhibited minimal ethylene release, whereas CM and RM, identified as melting flesh (MF) peaches, released high amounts of ethylene during the ripening process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microstructure observation indicated that cells in the flesh tissue of mealy peaches, CP14 (SH) and RM (MF), were intact and separated, with large intercellular spaces and irregular arrangements. The main factor that promotes mealiness is differences in pectin metabolism, which impact cell wall composition. The fluctuations in polygalacturonase (PG) and pectin methylesterase (PME) activity between mealy and non-mealy peaches were the main factor contributing to mealiness. However, the changes in cell wall metabolism that caused these fluctuations did not have a clear direction. Using transcriptome analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), we were able to identify forty differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that are associated with mealy patterns. Among these DEGs, genes encoding PG were significantly upregulated in mealy peaches (CP14 and RM) compared to non-mealy peaches (CP13 and CM). PpPG1 was the main effector gene for mealiness, while PpPG2, PpEGase2, PpEXP1, PpEXP3, PpAGP2, PpIAA4, and PpABA2 were identified as candidate genes regulating peach mealiness. These findings provide a solid experimental basis for understanding the textual distinctions between mealy and non-mealy peaches.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)
Open AccessArticle
Complex Habitats Boost Predator Co-Occurrence, Enhancing Pest Control in Sweet Pepper Greenhouses
by
Carmelo Peter Bonsignore and Joan van Baaren
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060614 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sweet pepper is a crop that benefits from phytosanitary treatments with low environmental impact, especially the successful control of pests through the introduction of biological control agents in greenhouses. However, predators that naturally occur in these surroundings often enter greenhouses. The precise roles
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Sweet pepper is a crop that benefits from phytosanitary treatments with low environmental impact, especially the successful control of pests through the introduction of biological control agents in greenhouses. However, predators that naturally occur in these surroundings often enter greenhouses. The precise roles of these natural predators and their interactions with the introduced predatory insects and mites are often unknown. This study investigated the relationships between Nesidiocoris tenuis, which is naturally present, and Amblyseius swirskii and Orius laevigatus, which are two species of generalist predators released for the control of multiple pests. This study was conducted for two years on 13 commercial sweet pepper crops in various types of greenhouses (tunnels and traditional greenhouses) in Sicily. The environmental complexity value (ECV) for each site was estimated based on 18 points detected around the site according to the different habitats that occurred at each coordinate. The results showed that the occurrence of N. tenuis in greenhouses, independently of their typology (tunnel or traditional greenhouse), was mainly promoted by the greater diversification of habitats immediately surrounding the pepper crops (in a circular area with a diameter of 500 mt), with an increase in its density during the crop season. Moreover, N. tenuis–O. laevigatus’s co-occurrence in flowers suggested that they were not impacted by each other’s presence and that their co-occurrence had a significant effect on pest reduction, although their co-occurrence was density-dependent. As an intraguild predator, N. tenuis competed with O. laevigatus for Frankliniella occidentalis when many predators were present. In addition, N. tenuis also competed with A. swirskii when they both occurred in flowers at a higher density. This study highlights the importance of pepper plant flowers in promoting a higher occurrence of juvenile forms of N. tenuis within flowers. Amblyseius swirskii colonized the plants in 3 weeks, distributing itself almost uniformly over the leaves with a clear control action against not only Bemisia tabaci but also F. occidentalis when present on the flowers. Thus, this concurrent analysis of several commercial pepper sites within the same production area suggests that, even with similar pest control plans, the diverse variability in the presence of natural enemies must be considered when selecting control strategies for pepper crop pests and that N. tenuis, favored by complex surrounding habitats, contributes actively to pest reduction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pest Diagnosis and Control Strategies for Fruit and Vegetable Plants)
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Open AccessArticle
Ficus Genome Database: A Comprehensive Genomics and Transcriptomics Research Platform
by
Peng Sun, Lei Yang, Hui Yu, Lianfu Chen and Ying Bao
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060613 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
Ficus is a significant genus within the Moraceae family, primarily native to tropical and subtropical regions. It plays a crucial role in the study of co-evolution and genetics in the fig–fig wasp symbiosis. Advancements in sequencing technology have facilitated whole-genome sequencing of several
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Ficus is a significant genus within the Moraceae family, primarily native to tropical and subtropical regions. It plays a crucial role in the study of co-evolution and genetics in the fig–fig wasp symbiosis. Advancements in sequencing technology have facilitated whole-genome sequencing of several Ficus species, accumulating vast amounts of genomic and transcriptomic data available in public databases. To streamline data integration, display, and analysis, we developed the Ficus Genome Database (FGD), a consolidated platform for the genomic data of five Ficus species, and self-assembled transcriptome data for 24 fig ostiolar bracts. The FGD is currently home to a diverse array of data, encompassing genome and gene sequences, annotations of genes, transcriptome analyses, biochemical pathways, non-coding RNA, and findings from comparative genomic studies, such as collinear blocks across different Ficus genome assemblies. To enhance translational and practical research concerning Ficus, FGD provides an extensive suite of accessible query interfaces, analytical instruments, and visualization options. These include the NCBI BLAST sequence search tool and the JBrowse/GBrowse genome browser. FGD also offers several distinct tools, including a genome Synteny Viewer, expression heatmap display, gene family identification, Gene Ontology terms enrichment, and pathway enrichment analysis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Salinity on ‘Fino 95’ Lemon Trees Inoculated with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi
by
Josefa M. Navarro, Olaya Pérez-Tornero and Asunción Morte
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 612; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060612 (registering DOI) - 9 Jun 2024
Abstract
An experiment was conducted with two-year-old ‘Fino 95’ lemon plants (Citrus limon Burm. f. cv. Fino) grafted on C. macrophylla (Citrus macrophylla Wester) to study the effects of salinity on plants inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Half of the inoculated
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An experiment was conducted with two-year-old ‘Fino 95’ lemon plants (Citrus limon Burm. f. cv. Fino) grafted on C. macrophylla (Citrus macrophylla Wester) to study the effects of salinity on plants inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Half of the inoculated (+AM) and non-inoculated (−AM) plants were irrigated with half-strength Hoagland solution, and the remainder were inoculated with half-strength Hoagland solution + 30 mM NaCl. Ninety-eight days later, results showed that AMF had alleviated the negative effect of salinity on growth. Inoculation with AMF provided some protection against the damage that salinity caused on cellular membranes and improved the plant water status and turgor under saline conditions (Ψx and Π increased by 16% and 48%, respectively). The responses of mineral nutrition to salinity and AMF treatments were complex. P concentrations in the leaves and roots of +AM plants were lower than in those of −AM plants, but inoculation improved Ca2+ (by 20%), Mg2+ (24%), Fe2+ (21%), and Zn2+ (7%) nutrition in roots and also the Mg2+/Na+ ratio in leaves (33%), reducing the antagonistic effect of Na+ on Mg2+ nutrition in salt-treated plants. AMF could protect plants against salt stress through the maintenance of the gas exchange capacity and due to a better antioxidant response. All these positive effects of AMF contributed to mitigating the harmful effects of salinity stress on the plant growth performance of lemon trees grafted on C. macrophylla rootstock under salinity conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Crop Physiological Responses under Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Climatic Warming on Earlier Wine-Grape Ripening in Northeastern Slovenia
by
Stanko Vršič, Borut Pulko, Tadeja Vodovnik-Plevnik and Andrej Perko
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060611 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, the development trends of bioclimatic parameters recorded at the Maribor and Murska Sobota climate stations from 1952 to 2022 and the dynamics of grape ripening in early-, medium-, and late-ripening grape varieties in the Podravje wine-growing region in Slovenia (north-eastern
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In this study, the development trends of bioclimatic parameters recorded at the Maribor and Murska Sobota climate stations from 1952 to 2022 and the dynamics of grape ripening in early-, medium-, and late-ripening grape varieties in the Podravje wine-growing region in Slovenia (north-eastern Slovenia) from 1980 to 2022 were investigated. Based on the data on soluble solids content, total acidity, and the recommended harvest date per year (until the technological ripeness of the grapes; 76°Oe), trends for shortening the growing period of the vines were calculated. Temperature changes have been more pronounced since 1980. The number of so-called hot days (with a maximum of T > 30 °C) has increased the most, which has the greatest impact on other bioclimatic parameters, e.g., the average temperature and growing degree days (GDDs) and the Huglin index (HI). For the period of 1980 to 2022, the trends were 0.44 °C (Murska Sobota) and 0.51 °C (Maribor) per decade, respectively. The trends were more pronounced for the average temperature in the period of May–June (TMJ). After 1980, the HI increased by about 10 units per year. As a result of the climate warming, grapes in north-eastern Slovenia ripened 26 (‘Sauvignon Blanc’) to 35 (‘Welschriesling’) days earlier. The trends showed a decrease in total acidity, which can be attributed to the higher temperatures during the growing season period, especially during the ripening period of the grapes (véraison). After 2010, the average temperatures during the growing season (1 April to 31 October) in Podravje were 1.6 °C higher than in the 1980s. In line with the earlier ripening of the grapes, the actual average temperature from 1 April to the harvest date was a further 1.0 °C higher. The higher temperatures in the late-ripening varieties ‘Riesling’ and ‘Furmint’ had a positive effect on the lower total acidity. Total annual precipitation and precipitation in the growing season for the period 1980 to 2022 in the Maribor area show decreasing trends of 6 mm/m2 (p = 0.001) and 4 mm/m2 (p = 0.012), respectively. In the eastern sub-wine-growing region of Podravje (Murska Sobota), the trends in precipitation were not significant.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Orchard Management under Climate Change)
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Open AccessArticle
Whole-Genome Analysis of ZF-HD Genes among Three Dendrobium Species and Expression Patterns in Dendrobium chrysotoxum
by
Xin He, Xuewei Zhao, Qinyao Zheng, Meng-Meng Zhang, Ye Huang, Zhong-Jian Liu and Siren Lan
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 610; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060610 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
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ZF-HD transcription factors, which are unique to land plants, are involved in the regulation of abiotic stress response and related signaling pathways, and play a crucial role in plant growth and development. Dendrobium is one of the largest genera of orchids, with a
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ZF-HD transcription factors, which are unique to land plants, are involved in the regulation of abiotic stress response and related signaling pathways, and play a crucial role in plant growth and development. Dendrobium is one of the largest genera of orchids, with a high ornamental and ecological value. However, the specific functions of the ZF-HDs in Dendrobium remain unknown. In this study, we identified a total of 53 ZF-HDs from D. chrysotoxum (17), D. catenatum (23), and D. huoshanense (13), and analyzed their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, chromosomal locations, protein structures, conserved motifs, and expression patterns. The phylogenetic relationships revealed that 53 ZF-HDs were classified into six subfamilies (ZHDI–V and MIF), and all ZF-HD proteins contained motif 1 and motif 4 conserved domains, while a minority of these proteins had exons. The analysis of cis-elements in the promoters of ZF-HDs from three Dendrobium species showed that growth- and development-related elements were the most prevalent, followed by hormone response and abiotic stress response elements. Through collinearity analysis, 14 DchZF-HDs were found to be collinear with DhuZF-HDs, and 12 DchZF-HDs were found to be collinear with DcaZF-HDs. Furthermore, RT-qPCR analysis revealed that DchZF-HDs play a regulatory role in the development of lateral organs during the flowering process. The results indicated that DchZHD2 plays a role in the unpigmented bud stage, while DchMIF8 and DchZHD16 play significant roles during the pigmented bud and initial bloom stages. Hence, this study provides a crucial basis for further exploring ZF-HDs functions in regulating the floral organs of orchids.
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Open AccessArticle
The Fate of Soil-Applied Nitrogen in the Fig Tree
by
Gustavo Brunetto, Paula Beatriz Sete, Paulo Marcio Norberto, Paola Daiane Welter, Ingrid Thábata Silva Viana and Marco Paulo Andrade
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 609; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060609 (registering DOI) - 8 Jun 2024
Abstract
The timing of nitrogen fertilizer application in an orchard can determine the amount of nitrogen (N) absorbed, distributed, and accumulated in fig tree organs. This study aimed to evaluate the fate of nitrogen (N) applied to the fig tree at different times in
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The timing of nitrogen fertilizer application in an orchard can determine the amount of nitrogen (N) absorbed, distributed, and accumulated in fig tree organs. This study aimed to evaluate the fate of nitrogen (N) applied to the fig tree at different times in the soil. The experiment was conducted in the 2009–2010 crop season. The planted trees belonged to the cultivar Roxo de Valinhos, in the São João Del Rei municipality of Minas Gerais state (MG), Brazil. The treatments were the application of 20 kg N ha−1 as urea, enriched with 2% excess 15N atoms, on September 30 (T1) or on October 30 (T2). In January 2010, the fig trees were cut down and separated into fruit, leaves, new shoots and shoots from previous years, and the stem. The harvested parts were dried, weighed, and ground. Soil was collected from the 0.00–0.10 and 0.10–0.20 m layers, dried, and ground. The total N and excess 15N atoms in the organs and in the soil were determined, and the N derived from the fertilizer was calculated. The annual organs of the fig tree, including leaves, fruit, and young shoots, exhibited the highest accumulation of N from soil application at both timings, with similar N uptake and accumulation levels. However, nitrogen fertilization had a minimal contribution to the overall nitrogen content in young trees and did not exceed 11%. Understanding the fate of nitrogen derived from fertilizer within the fig tree’s organs will allow for more precise adjustments when recommending nitrogen doses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Effects of Fertilizers on Fruit Production)
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Identification of Resistance QTLs to Black Leaf Streak Disease (Due to Pseudocercospora fijiensis) in Diploid Bananas (Musa acuminata)
by
Françoise Carreel, Guillaume Martin, Sébastien Ravel, Véronique Roussel, Christine Pages, Rémy Habas, Théo Cantagrel, Chantal Guiougou, Jean-Marie Delos, Catherine Hervouet, Pierre Mournet, Angélique D’Hont, Nabila Yahiaoui and Frédéric Salmon
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060608 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Black Leaf Streak Disease (BLSD), caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora fijiensis, is a recent pandemic and the most economically and environmentally important leaf disease of banana. To assist breeding of varieties with durable resistance to the rapidly evolving P. fijiensis, we used
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Black Leaf Streak Disease (BLSD), caused by the fungus Pseudocercospora fijiensis, is a recent pandemic and the most economically and environmentally important leaf disease of banana. To assist breeding of varieties with durable resistance to the rapidly evolving P. fijiensis, we used a diploid genitor ‘IDN 110’ with partial resistance to BLSD to search for QTLs. We assessed diploid progeny of 73 hybrids between ‘IDN 110’ and the diploid cultivar ‘Khai Nai On’, which is susceptible to BLSD. Hybrids were phenotyped with artificial inoculation under controlled conditions. This method allowed us to focus on resistance in the early stages of the interaction already identified as strongly influencing BLSD epidemiology. Progeny were genotyped by sequencing. As both parents are heterozygous for large reciprocal translocations, the distribution of recombination was assessed and revealed regions with low recombination rates. Fourteen non-overlapping QTLs of resistance to BLSD were identified of which four main QTLs from the ‘IDN110‘ parent, located on chromosomes 06, 07, 08, and 09, were shown to be of interest for marker-assisted selection. Genes that underline those four QTLs are discussed in the light of previous literature.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developments in the Genetics and Breeding of Banana Species)
Open AccessArticle
Targeted Manipulation of Vertically Transmitted Endophytes to Confer Beneficial Traits in Grapevines
by
Chun-Xiao Chen, Li-Rong Guo, Yu-Tao Wang, Yun Wen, Yu Li, Chun-Xi Lu, Ping Zhou, Shuang-Ye Huang, Yi-Qian Li, Xiao-Xia Pan, Shu-Sheng Zhu and Ming-Zhi Yang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060607 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Vertically transmitted endophytes (VTEs) with multi-host-supporting functions are considered plant-acquired heritable traits, which can be manipulated to develop plants with the stable inheritance of these VTEs, defined here as ‘plant endophytic modification (PEM)’. To translate this hypothetical strategy into agricultural and horticultural practice,
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Vertically transmitted endophytes (VTEs) with multi-host-supporting functions are considered plant-acquired heritable traits, which can be manipulated to develop plants with the stable inheritance of these VTEs, defined here as ‘plant endophytic modification (PEM)’. To translate this hypothetical strategy into agricultural and horticultural practice, a PEM was carried out by introducing an anti-fungal pathogenic bacterium, Bacillus cereus (strain ID: ZX-2), into grapevine cuttings and growing the cuttings into vine plants. Bacterial strain XZ-2 is highly efficient in infecting grapevine cuttings and colonizing the interior of the infected cuttings, various parts of the subsequently established vine plants, and next year’s emerging vine shoots and leaves. Profiling the endophytic microbiota by high-throughput sequencing to the grapevines revealed that the colonization with exogenous ZX-2 slightly affected endophytic diversity, while significantly altering the composition and the predicted phenotypes of endophytic microbiota in ZX-2-modified grapevines (ZX-2mg). Most importantly, leaves (from both first- and second-year grapevines) of ZX-2mg conferred significantly higher (p < 0.001) anti-fungal pathogen abilities and a reduction in naturally occurring lesion area than leaves compared to the control grapevines. For all detected vines, a significant correlation (N = 37, r = 0.418; p < 0.01) between fungal pathogen inhibition rates and B. cereus (ZX-2) isolation rates was observed. In addition, ZX-2mg showed some growth promotion and a delay (15–20 days) in leaf abscission. The work established an alternative strategy to create plant lines with functions of specific VTEs via PEM, confirming the practical value of PEM in future organic farming systems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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Open AccessBrief Report
Structure and Function of Blueberry Fruit and Flowers: Stomata, Transpiration and Photoassimilation
by
Michael Blanke
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060606 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) stands out among fruit in terms of three open physiological questions about its climacteric character, CO2 uptake, and the absence or presence of stomata on its floral organs. The objective of the present study was to examine
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Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) stands out among fruit in terms of three open physiological questions about its climacteric character, CO2 uptake, and the absence or presence of stomata on its floral organs. The objective of the present study was to examine the structures of blueberry flowers and fruit to explain their contribution to CO2 exchange and transpiration in order to clarify these discrepancies. Blueberries were dewaxed and the sepals/corolla removed for stomata counts, and their micromorphology was studied via LT-SEM. The fruit has stomata, contrary to beliefs in the literature, possibly because the stomata are occluded by the dense wax cover or ‘bloom’ and hidden on the distal part of the ovary in between and underneath the corolla. However, stomata were located on the distal part of the fruit surrounded by the sepals (calyx) and found predominantly on the abaxial sepals, while the adaxial side of the sepals and the proximal part of the ovary lacked stomata. The petals were devoid of stomata, trichomes, and chlorophyll and abscised after anthesis. In contrast, the sepals remained until maturity, contributing 5–7% to the berry surface but contributing to the majority of fruit stomata and chlorophyll. With 59–71% of the fruit’s chlorophyll, sepals were a significant source of the CO2 uptake. Similarly, with 95% of the berry stomata, sepals were a significant source of water loss, measured via porometry of fruit with and without sepals. Overall, this study identified the ovary as a minor source and sepals as the dominant source of CO2 and H2O exchange in blueberries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Developmental Physiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology)
Open AccessArticle
Bioponic Cultivation Using Chicken Droppings to Produce Lettuce Plants (Lactuca sativa rz) Uncontaminated by Trace Metals
by
Félicien Mununga Katebe, Iris Szekely, Michel Mpundu Mubemba, Clément Burgeon and M. Haïssam Jijakli
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 605; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060605 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Anthropogenic activities have denatured aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial environments throughout the world in general, and in Lubumbashi in particular, where market garden soils have become uncultivable for many plants. Thus, bioponics could be an effective means of producing uncontaminated vegetables in soilless cultivation,
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Anthropogenic activities have denatured aquatic, terrestrial, and aerial environments throughout the world in general, and in Lubumbashi in particular, where market garden soils have become uncultivable for many plants. Thus, bioponics could be an effective means of producing uncontaminated vegetables in soilless cultivation, not only reducing the amount of fertilizer used and limiting contamination of agricultural produce but also achieving higher yields than in open-ground cultivation. The overall objective of this study was to implement a new bioponic technique for producing liquid fertilizer from chicken manure and utilize it in the organic hydroponic cultivation of lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. Lucrecia) installed on floating raft systems. To achieve this, two types of trials were conducted. The first was aimed at determining the quantities of organic matter to be used in the formulation of nutrient solutions. The second trial aimed to determine the optimal nitrogen concentration to be provided for hydroponic plant growth. Mineralization and/or anaerobic digestion of chicken manure were conducted for 7 days in 200 L barrels. For the first trial, nutrient solutions were created from three different concentrations of chicken manure (0.35%, 3.5%, and 7% dry matter—D.M.). These solutions were then used in bioponic rafts where total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) concentrations were fixed at 150 mg/L. For the second trial, D.M. was fixed at 2.5% for each tested modality, but TAN concentrations varied among them (i.e., 60, 90, and 120 mg/L TAN concentration). Modalities with low D.M. concentration (0.35%) and those with low TAN concentration (60 mg/L) resulted in higher yields than bioponic modalities receiving high concentrations of dry matter or TAN, respectively, for trials 1 and 2. Although the reference chemical solutions generate the greatest yields, bioponic systems operating with chicken manure present a good alternative for the cultivation of vegetables in developing countries with heavily contaminated soils. Indeed, bioponics allows for the production of vegetables in large quantities from animal waste, which does not pose health risks for human consumption. Local vegetable species commonly grown in Lubumbashi should be tested under hydroponic conditions.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soilless Culture in Vegetable Production)
Open AccessArticle
Nitrogen Fixation and Growth of Potted Olive Plants through Foliar Application of a Nitrogen-Fixing Microorganism
by
Manuel Ângelo Rodrigues, Soraia Raimundo, Carlos M. Correia and Margarida Arrobas
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060604 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Given the importance of biological nitrogen (N) fixation in agroecosystems, using inoculants with phyllosphere N fixers effective across various crops would revolutionize agriculture. In this study, the application of an inoculant prepared from Methylobacterium symbioticum was tested on young olive trees. The pot
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Given the importance of biological nitrogen (N) fixation in agroecosystems, using inoculants with phyllosphere N fixers effective across various crops would revolutionize agriculture. In this study, the application of an inoculant prepared from Methylobacterium symbioticum was tested on young olive trees. The pot experiment was arranged in a factorial design, with inoculant (Yes and No) and mineral N applied to the soil (0 (aN0), 25 (N25), 50 (N50), and 100 (N100) kg ha−1), and four replicates. The inoculant application did not increase plant dry matter yield (DMY), whereas the application of mineral N had a significant and pronounced effect. The inoculant also did not significantly increase N concentration in tissues, unlike the strong increase observed with N applied to the soil. The inoculant significantly increased plant N recovery, a cumulative effect resulting from small increases in DMY and N concentration in tissues. This increase represented 5.2% more N in plants receiving the inoculant compared to untreated ones. However, only treatments receiving mineral N recorded positive values of fixed N, with the highest value observed in the N50 treatment (12.4%), whereas a negative value (−7.7%) was observed in the N0 treatment. Overall, these low values of fixed N question the economic rationale of using this inoculant by farmers and especially render it unsuitable for organic farming systems, where plants tend to have lower N levels in tissues.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)
Open AccessArticle
Comparative and Phylogenetic Analyses of the Complete Chloroplast Genomes of Four Ottelia Species
by
Jianmin Tang, Rong Zou, Ke Huang, Limei Gao, Fengluan Tang, Tao Ding, Yunsheng Jiang and Xiao Wei
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060603 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The genus Ottelia comprises approximately 21 submerged macrophyte species primarily found in tropical Africa and Southeast Asia. The classification of several Ottelia species as vulnerable under the criteria “A2c” in the China Species Red List emphasizes the urgency of establishing a credible taxonomy.
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The genus Ottelia comprises approximately 21 submerged macrophyte species primarily found in tropical Africa and Southeast Asia. The classification of several Ottelia species as vulnerable under the criteria “A2c” in the China Species Red List emphasizes the urgency of establishing a credible taxonomy. The ambiguity in taxonomy and evolutionary history persists, primarily stemming from the absence of a robust phylogeny at the species level. The rapid progress in high-throughput sequencing technology has facilitated the retrieval of complete chloroplast (cp) genome sequences, offering a molecular foundation for conducting phylogenetic analyses. In this study, the entire cp genomes of five samples of four Ottelia species were sequenced. All five Ottelia samples exhibited a circular, quadripartite-structured molecule, with lengths ranging from 156,823 to 162,442 bp. A total of 75–88 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in the cp genomes of the five Ottelia samples were observed, which could be used for species identification. A preliminary phylogenetic analysis revealed that O. fengshanensis, O. acuminata, and O. guanyangensis clustered with strong support (100 BS). O. acuminata var. jingxiensis was resolved as a sister to O. acuminata var. lunanensis (100 BS), and both were further found to be sisters to O. balansae. The widely distributed O. alismoides exhibited a close phylogenetic relationship as the sister taxon to all the Chinese endemic taxa, supported by robust values. Together, our thorough examination of the entire cp genomes of the five Ottelia samples provides eminent insights into reconstructing their phylogeny. Furthermore, it illuminates the evolutionary dynamics of the cp genome within the Ottelia genus.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Genomic Landscape: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Thai Tomato Germplasm through Whole-Genome Sequencing (WGS)
by
Arweewut Yongsuwan, Wasin Poncheewin, Wittaya Sastawittaya, Akarachai Somkul, Burin Thunnom, Wanchana Aesomnuk, Anjana Bhunchoth, Namthip Phironrit, Bencharong Phuangrat, Ratree Koohapitakthum, Rungnapa Deeto, Nuchnard Warin, Samart Wanchana, Siwaret Arikit, Orawan Chatchawankanphanich, Paweena Chuenwarin and Vinitchan Ruanjaichon
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 602; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060602 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
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Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) represent a valuable crop species cultivated on a global scale, with Thailand playing a notable role in Southeast Asia’s agricultural landscape. However, a comprehensive understanding of the genetic underpinnings, population dynamics, and genetic correlations among tomato cultivars within
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Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) represent a valuable crop species cultivated on a global scale, with Thailand playing a notable role in Southeast Asia’s agricultural landscape. However, a comprehensive understanding of the genetic underpinnings, population dynamics, and genetic correlations among tomato cultivars within Thailand remains relatively nascent. This study conducted an extensive analysis of 283 tomato accessions sourced from Thailand’s largest germplasm repository, employing approximately 2.4 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) obtained through whole-genome sequencing (WGS). The results of the genetic diversity assessment demonstrate a consistent delineation of groups, as indicated by UPGMA clustering, revealing five distinct clusters, while population structure analysis unveils twelve subpopulations. These findings underscore the limited genetic reservoir within Thai tomato germplasm, providing valuable insights for germplasm management strategies and offering a promising avenue for the refinement of breeding programs aimed at enhancing tomato genetics.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Exploring Community Garden Coordinators’ Perceptions of Climate-Smart Adaptations to Support Local Food Systems
by
Olivia M. Erskine, Alexa J. Lamm, Catherine E. Sanders and Kevan W. Lamm
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 601; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060601 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Extreme weather events, increased intensity of droughts and floods, and changes to growing seasons are results of climate change that impact horticulture, agriculture, and food systems. In the United States, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina experience similar impacts caused by climate change
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Extreme weather events, increased intensity of droughts and floods, and changes to growing seasons are results of climate change that impact horticulture, agriculture, and food systems. In the United States, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina experience similar impacts caused by climate change such as rising sea levels and extreme heat. In these states, community gardens can be a source of local, fresh foods, especially in areas experiencing food insecurity. The goals of this study were to identify garden coordinators’ perceptions of the need for climate change adaptation, perceptions regarding the five perceived attributes of climate change adaptation, and where community garden coordinators stand in the innovation–decision process when it comes to climate change adaptation. The findings show that participants valued relative advantage and low levels of complexity when adopting and implementing climate-smart practices into their gardens. This study found that the community gardens were all implementing some form of climate-smart adaptations even if implementation was not for climate-related reasons. All participants noted that the largest barrier to adopting new practices was a lack of extra money. The findings from this study should be used to inform environmental education and communication strategies that encourage adoption of climate-smart practices.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rethinking Horticulture to Meet Sustainable Development Goals)
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Metabolomic Fingerprinting Analysis of Tomato Fruits from Physalis Species in Mexico’s Balsas Basin
by
Sergio Arias-Martínez, Guadalupe Oyoque-Salcedo, Oscar Giovanni Gutiérrez-Cárdenas, Ernesto Oregel-Zamudio and Jesús Rubén Torres-García
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 600; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060600 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the chemical and sensory distinctions in tomato fruits from three Physalis species (P. ixocarpa, P. angulata, and P. philadelphica) found in Michoacán, Mexico, using metabolomic fingerprinting through GC-MS analysis. The objective was to identify organoleptic differences that could
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This study investigated the chemical and sensory distinctions in tomato fruits from three Physalis species (P. ixocarpa, P. angulata, and P. philadelphica) found in Michoacán, Mexico, using metabolomic fingerprinting through GC-MS analysis. The objective was to identify organoleptic differences that could influence consumer preferences, highlighting the significance of these species’ unique traits. These species represented a valuable genetic reservoir for potential hybridization or selection aimed at enhancing commercial varieties by focusing on organoleptic properties rather than traditional selection criteria like fruit size or yield. This research emphasizes the importance of preserving Mexican biodiversity and providing insights into domestication processes that prioritize flavor and sensory qualities. By analyzing metabolite profiles and their correlation with taste preferences, this study contributes to understanding how these differences could be leveraged in breeding programs to develop new tomato varieties with preferred flavors. It was suggested that variations in taste among the species are mainly due to differences in metabolite expression. This knowledge underscores the importance of organoleptic properties in the selection and domestication of edible fruits, offering a pathway toward the conservation and enhancement of tomato varieties through the exploitation of genetic diversity for organoleptic improvement.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruits Quality and Sensory Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle
Overexpression of the CpCOR413PM1 Gene from Wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox) Enhances Cold and Drought Tolerance in Arabidopsis
by
Yeyuan Deng, Yi Lin, Guo Wei, Xiaoqian Hu, Yanghui Zheng and Jing Ma
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060599 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox (L.) Link) is a commercial significance woody plant. As a rare winter-blooming plant, C. praecox is widely distributed and highly adaptable to various climates, especially low temperatures. In this study, we identified the COR413 plasma membrane gene CpCOR413PM1 in
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Wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox (L.) Link) is a commercial significance woody plant. As a rare winter-blooming plant, C. praecox is widely distributed and highly adaptable to various climates, especially low temperatures. In this study, we identified the COR413 plasma membrane gene CpCOR413PM1 in wintersweet. CpCOR413PM1 was expressed in all tissues of the plant, with the highest expression observed in the root and floral parts. Cultivation under 4 °C and with treatment of ABA led to the up-regulated expression of CpCOR413PM1. The expression of recombinant CpCOR413PM1 protein in Escherichia coli resulted in the tissues’ increased resilience to cold and drought stress. In vitro enzyme activity assays confirmed the protective impact of the CpCOR413PM1 protein on superoxide dismutase under low-temperature stress. Furthermore, the overexpression of CpCOR413PM1 in Arabidopsis thaliana resulted in increased cold and drought tolerance and ABA inhibited transgenic Arabidopsis seed germination. The CpCOR413PM1 gene promoter can influence expression of the GUS reporter gene under conditions of 4 °C, 42 °C and abscisic acid. Overall, our study demonstrates that CpCOR413PM1 plays a significate role in cold and drought stress. Our findings strengthen the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying wintersweet’s tolerance to stress and lay the groundwork for the future investigation of the functions of the COR gene family.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Stress Physiology and Resistance Regulation in Horticultural Plants)
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Open AccessArticle
Salt Tolerance Assessment of Different Tomato Varieties at the Seedling Stage
by
Liliya R. Bogoutdinova, Marat R. Khaliluev, Inna A. Chaban, Alexander A. Gulevich, Olga V. Shelepova and Ekaterina N. Baranova
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 598; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060598 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The identification of reliable physiological and biochemical indicators for assessing tomato salt tolerance can increase the efficiency of plant breeding to create new varieties and lines. The purpose of our study was to identify available physiological and biochemical relevant characteristics for assessing the
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The identification of reliable physiological and biochemical indicators for assessing tomato salt tolerance can increase the efficiency of plant breeding to create new varieties and lines. The purpose of our study was to identify available physiological and biochemical relevant characteristics for assessing the sensitivity to sodium chloride salinity of different tomato genotypes at the seedling stage. A complex analysis was carried out based on indicators such as biomass growth, water content of plant tissues, content of readily soluble salts, sodium and chlorine ions, photosynthetic pigments, carotenoids, phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Additionally, the stomata area of the upper and lower epidermis was taken into account. The comprehensive assessment carried out made it possible to reliably divide the eight studied tomato varieties into two groups: sensitive (Belyij Naliv, Geya, YaLF, Paradigma) and tolerant (Recordsmen, Yuryevskij, Bych’e Serdce, Astrakhanskij). Tomato genotypes that can be classified as sensitive (in order of increasing sensitivity to high concentrations of NaCl (150 mM)) were Belyij Naliv > Geya > YaLF ≥ Paradigma. Tomato genotypes that can be classified as resistant to salt stress (in order of increasing tolerance to high concentrations of NaCl (150 mM)) were Recordsmen < Yuryevskij < Bych’e Serdce < Astrakhanskij. The advisability of only using complex physiological and biochemical indicators to obtain relevant assessments for salinity tolerance at the early stages of tomato plant development has been demonstrated.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Studies in Abiotic Stress Response Mechanism of Horticultural Plants)
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