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
‘Rootpac R’ for Apricots? Yes!
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 547; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060547 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The rootstock ‘Rootpac R’ is not used for apricots. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of ‘Rootpac R’ in comparison to the widely used ‘Myrobalan 29C’ rootstock. The evaluation of the rootstocks was conducted in combination with 16 scion
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The rootstock ‘Rootpac R’ is not used for apricots. The aim of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of ‘Rootpac R’ in comparison to the widely used ‘Myrobalan 29C’ rootstock. The evaluation of the rootstocks was conducted in combination with 16 scion cultivars to assess their effects on vegetative traits and mortality. The total height of the trees on ‘Rootpac R’ initially surpassed the ‘Myrobalan 29C’ trees. By the end of the fourth year, both rootstocks showed comparable heights with ‘Rootpac R’ standing at 317 cm and ‘Myrobalan 29C’ standing at 307 cm. Both rootstocks exhibited comparable TCSA values of 5 cm2 initially; ‘Rootpac R’ surpassed 35% compared to ‘Myrobalan 29C’. Canopy space occupancy assessments revealed that ‘Rootpac R’ initially demonstrated superior space utilization, occupying 8% of the designated volume compared to 4% for ‘Myrobalan 29C’. By the fourth year, ‘Rootpac R’ exhibited a higher occupancy rate of 65% compared to 50% for ‘Myrobalan 29C’. For apricot cultivars, such as ‘Bergeron’, ‘C. óriás’, ‘Gönci magyarkajszi’, ‘Lady Cot’, ‘Tardif de Valance’, and ‘Tom Cot’, ‘Rootpac R’ exhibited survival rates beyond the fourth season, highlighting its effectiveness for these varieties. Based on these results, ‘Rootpac R’ rootstock could be useful in apricot growing.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Rootstock–Scion Interactions in Horticultural Crops, Volume II)
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Open AccessArticle
Leaf Fermentation Products of Allium sativum L. Can Alleviate Apple Replant Disease (ARD)
by
Chengwen Yin, Rong Zhang, Yiming Zhao, Gongshuai Wang, Chengmiao Yin, Yusong Liu and Zhiquan Mao
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060546 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Apple replant disease (ARD) is a serious threat to newly replanted apple seedlings. The alleviation of ARD is of great significance for the healthy development of the apple industry. In this study, we investigated the effects of leaf fermentation products (LFP) of Allium
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Apple replant disease (ARD) is a serious threat to newly replanted apple seedlings. The alleviation of ARD is of great significance for the healthy development of the apple industry. In this study, we investigated the effects of leaf fermentation products (LFP) of Allium sativum L. on the replanted soil environment and Malus hupehensis Rehd. seedlings. The results showed that LFP increased biomass accumulation, changed root architecture, increased root anti-oxidant enzyme activity, and decreased root MDA content under replanted conditions. In addition, the application of LFP increased soil nutrients and soil enzyme activity and reduced phenolic acid content. Furthermore, the LFP enriched the number of beneficial bacteria and reduced the number of harmful fungi, which positively affected the soil microbial community structure. Overall, our results demonstrated that LFP of A. sativum L. could alleviate the occurrence of ARD and provide new insights for the reuse of the leaves of A. sativum L. and the prevention of ARD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Protected Culture)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of S-RNase Genotypes of 65 Almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb] Germplasm Resources and Close Relatives
by
Panyun Xu, Lirong Wang, Xinwei Wang, Yeting Xu, Yarmuhammat Ablitip, Chunmiao Guo and Mubarek Ayup
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060545 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Self-incompatibility (SI) systems in plants prevent self-pollination and mating among relatives, enhancing genetic diversity in nature but posing challenges in almond production and breeding. S-allele composition alongside the flowering periods of these cultivars enables the anticipation of cross-compatibility and optimal cultivar combinations for
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Self-incompatibility (SI) systems in plants prevent self-pollination and mating among relatives, enhancing genetic diversity in nature but posing challenges in almond production and breeding. S-allele composition alongside the flowering periods of these cultivars enables the anticipation of cross-compatibility and optimal cultivar combinations for the allocation of pollinating trees in production. In the current study, 65 materials containing 61 almond (Prunus dulcis) germplasm resources, of which two were hybrids and the remaining four were peach (Prunus persica) germplasms, were used for the S-RNase genotype. The results showed that 55 genomic samples were amplified by PCR to obtain double-banded types, which identified their complete S-RNase genotypes, while the rest of the samples amplified only a single band, identifying one S-RNase gene in the S gene. A total of 30 S-RNase genes were identified in Prunus dulcis, Prunus webbii, Prunus persica, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus salicina, and Prunus cerasifera. Sequence analysis revealed polymorphisms spanning from 313 to 2031 bp within the amplified fragment sequence. The S57-RNase gene exhibited the highest frequency at 31.75% among the identified materials, with S1S57, S10S57, and S7S57 being the predominant S genotypes. A new S-RNase gene, named S65, was identified with a sequencing length of 1483 bp. Its deduced amino acid sequence shared 98.24% similarity with the amino acid sequence of the S-RNase gene on GenBank, with the highest homology. Furthermore, according to the findings, 65 materials belong to eight S genotype cross-incompatibility groups (CIG) and one semi-compatibility or compatibility group (0). Among them, most of the seven main almond germplasm resources and 35 cultivars can be cross-pollinated. The results of the study can lay the foundation for pollinator tree allocation and breeding hybrid parent selection in almond production.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Developmental Biology in Tree Fruit and Nut Crops)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Combined Pretreatment with Bioequivalent Doses of Plant Growth Regulators Alleviates Dehydration Stress in Lactuca sativa
by
Irina I. Vaseva, Iskren Sergiev, Dessislava Todorova, Martynas Urbutis, Giedrė Samuolienė and Lyudmila Simova-Stoilova
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060544 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Plant hormones regulate adaptive responses to various biotic and abiotic stress factors. Applied exogenously, they trigger the natural plant defense mechanisms, a feature that could be implemented in strategies for supporting crop resilience. The potential of the exogenous cytokinin-like acting compound (kinetin), the
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Plant hormones regulate adaptive responses to various biotic and abiotic stress factors. Applied exogenously, they trigger the natural plant defense mechanisms, a feature that could be implemented in strategies for supporting crop resilience. The potential of the exogenous cytokinin-like acting compound (kinetin), the auxin analogue 1-naphtyl acetic acid (NAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and the ethyleneprecursor 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) to mitigate dehydration was tested on Lactuca sativa (lettuce) grown on 12% polyethylene glycol (PEG). Priming with different blends containing these plant growth regulators (PGRs) applied in bioequivalent concentrations was evaluated through biometric measurements and biochemical analyses. The combined treatment with the four compounds exhibited the best dehydration protective effect. The antioxidative enzyme profiling of the PGR-primed individuals revealed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and peroxidase activity in the leaves. Immunodetection of higher levels of the rate-limiting enzyme for proline biosynthesis (delta-pyroline-5-carboxylate synthase) in the primed plants coincided with a significantly higher content of the amino acid measured in the leaves. These plants also accumulated particular dehydrin types, which may have contributed to the observed stress-relieving effect. The four-component mix applied by spraying or through the roots exerted similar stress-mitigating properties on soil-grown lettuce subjected to moderate drought.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Horticultural Production under Drought Stress)
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Open AccessArticle
Identification and Expression Analysis of the BTB/POZ Gene Family in Solanum tuberosum
by
Haoyue Feng, Yifei Lu, Bi Ren, Shimin Yang, Yongjian Liu, Liming Lu and Liqin Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060543 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The BTB/POZ (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-a-brac) family of proteins is widespread in plants and animals and plays important roles in growth, development, metabolism, and environmental responses. There are few reports on BTB family genes in potato. In this study, 34 sequences containing conserved
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The BTB/POZ (broad-complex, tramtrack, and bric-a-brac) family of proteins is widespread in plants and animals and plays important roles in growth, development, metabolism, and environmental responses. There are few reports on BTB family genes in potato. In this study, 34 sequences containing conserved BTB domains were obtained from the potato gene database, and the phylogenetic, physical, and chemical properties, gene structure, conserved motif, domain, and chromosomal localization of the potato BTB protein family were analyzed via bioinformatics methods. In addition, we used qRT-PCR to detect 12 selected StBTB genes. The results confirmed that these genes are involved in cold, ABA, salt, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), drought, and low-nitrogen stress, which is highly important for elucidating BTB family members and studying stress response and tolerance mechanisms. This study provides a theoretical basis for the study of the function and expression of potato BTB and lays a solid foundation for further understanding the molecular mechanism of the potato BTB gene under various environmental stresses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Physiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Photoсhemistry in Horticultural Plant)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing Cadmium Stress Resilience in Myrtle Genotypes Using Machine Learning Predictive Models: A Comparative In Vitro Analysis
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Mehmet Tütüncü, Musab A. Isak, Tolga İzgü, Dicle Dönmez, Yıldız Aka Kaçar and Özhan Şimşek
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060542 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of cadmium (Cd) stress on the micropropagation and rooting dynamics of two myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) genotypes with different fruit colors under controlled in vitro conditions. We evaluated the response of these genotypes to varying concentrations of
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This study investigated the effects of cadmium (Cd) stress on the micropropagation and rooting dynamics of two myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) genotypes with different fruit colors under controlled in vitro conditions. We evaluated the response of these genotypes to varying concentrations of Cd (0, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 µM) to determine dose-dependent effects on plantlet multiplication and root formation. Our results demonstrate that the white-fruited (WF) genotype exhibits greater resilience than the black-fruited (BF) genotype across all concentrations, maintaining higher multiplication rates and shoot heights. For instance, the multiplication rate at 100 µM Cd was highest for WF at 6.73, whereas BF showed the lowest rate of 1.94 at 500 µM. Similarly, increasing Cd levels significantly impaired root length and the number of roots for both genotypes, illustrating the detrimental impact of Cd on root system development. Additionally, this study incorporated machine learning (ML) models to predict growth outcomes. The multilayer perceptron (MLP) model, including random forest (RF) and XGBoost, was used to analyze the data. The MLP model performed notably well, demonstrating the potential of advanced computational tools in accurately predicting plant responses to environmental stress. For example, the MLP model accurately predicted shoot height with an R2 value of 0.87 and root length with an R2 of 0.99, indicating high predictive accuracy. Overall, our findings provide significant insights into the genotypic differences in Cd tolerance and the utility of ML models in plant science. These results underscore the importance of developing targeted strategies to enhance plant resilience in contaminated environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tissue Culture and Micropropagation Techniques of Horticultural Crops)
Open AccessEditorial
Seed Germination and Micropropagation of Ornamental Plants
by
Konstantinos Bertsouklis, Epaminondas Kartsonas and Angela Carra
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060541 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Ornamental species can improve the environmental conditions in cities, serving the European Union’s biodiversity strategy to bring nature back into our lives [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Germination and Micropropagation of Ornamental Plants)
Open AccessArticle
Combined Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Candidate Genes for Anthocyanin Accumulation in Ginkgo biloba Seed Exocarp
by
Jianlu Tang, Zhi Feng, Xiangyue Xiang, Yiqiang Wang and Meng Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060540 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Anthocyanin is an important pigment that affects plant color change. In this study, the color parameters and anthocyanin content of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp at different periods were measured, and it was determined that the a* value (redness value) of the seed exocarp
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Anthocyanin is an important pigment that affects plant color change. In this study, the color parameters and anthocyanin content of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp at different periods were measured, and it was determined that the a* value (redness value) of the seed exocarp was closely related to the color change occurring during the development of the seed exocarp, and the anthocyanin content in the seed exocarp showed an increasing trend. The molecular mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis in Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp is still unclear. In order to further understand the molecular mechanism of color change in Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp, the regulation mechanism and accumulation mode of anthocyanin in the seed exocarp at three different periods were analyzed using transcriptomic and metabolomic. A total of four key anthocyanins were screened from the metabolome, including three kinds of Cyanidin 3-arabinoside, Malvidin 3-glucoside and Cyanidin 3-sambubioside 5-glucoside with increased content. Among them, Cyanidin 3-arabinosidehad a strong correlation with the a* value (PCC = 0.914), which have a great influence on the color change of the seed exocarp, and Delphinidin 3-O-3″,6″-O-dimalonylglucoside with decreased content might jointly affect the formation of exocarp color. The transcriptome data show that among the structural genes, ANS (Gb_33402) had the highest correlation with Cyanidin 3-arabinoside (PCC = 0.9217) and in GbANS, only Gb_33402 showed an upregulated expression trend in the three stages of seed exocarp development, which suggesting that it plays an important role in anthocyanin accumulation in the seed exocarp and it may be the key structural gene affecting the formation of seed exocarp color. Among the transcription factors, the differential expression of most transcription factors (MYB, bHLH, b-ZIP, NAC, WDR and AP2/ERF) may jointly affect the formation of seed exocarp color by promoting anthocyanin accumulation. This study elucidates the main anthocyanins that cause the color change of the seed exocarp of Ginkgo biloba and reveals the molecular regulation mechanism of anthocyanins at different developmental stages of the seed exocarp. It provides a theoretical basis and insights for understanding the color change of Ginkgo biloba seed exocarp.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Decade of Research towards to Horticultural Crop from Omics to Biotechnology)
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Open AccessArticle
How Climate Variability Affects Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Yield, Oil, and Fatty Acids in Response to Sowing Dates
by
Muhammad Sajid, Hassan Munir, Saeed Rauf, Iqra Ibtahaj, Bilal Ahamad Paray, Anna Kiełtyka-Dadasiewicz, Aleksandra Głowacka and Mohamed A. A. Ahmed
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060539 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Climate variability is a major challenge concerning food security; therefore, there is a need for pragmatic solutions to improve agricultural production. Henceforth, this study was planned to optimize the planting time of exotic safflowers under the prevailing conditions in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A study
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Climate variability is a major challenge concerning food security; therefore, there is a need for pragmatic solutions to improve agricultural production. Henceforth, this study was planned to optimize the planting time of exotic safflowers under the prevailing conditions in Faisalabad, Pakistan. A study was executed by employing a split-plot design with six safflower accessions and five sowing dates ranging from 31 October 2019 to 31 December 2019. The results of the experimental safflower accession PI-198990 produced significant seed yields (2432 kg ha−1, 2772 kg ha−1 and 2366 kg ha−1) when sown on 30 November 2019, 15 December 2019, and 31 December 2019, respectively. On the other hand, on 31 October 2019 and 30 November 2019, sown safflower accessions PI-208677 and PI-250187 were the best performers, respectively. However, a higher achene oil percentage (31.5% and 30.8%) was noted in accessions PI-250187 and PI-314650 when sown on 31 December 2019 and 15 December 2019, respectively. The highest oleic acid content (22.92% and 22.83%) was determined in accession PI-314650 when planted on 30 November 2019 and 15 December 2019, respectively, whereas a higher linoleic acid content was observed on 31 October 2019 and 30 November 2019. Stability analysis showed that safflower accession PI-210834 was the most stable under all sowing environments, followed by PI-314650. Correlation analysis showed that oil percentage showed a negative correlation with phenological traits and growing degree days, and oil yield showed a strong positive relationship with heads, seed yield, biological yield, thousand seed weight, and harvest index.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Phytochemistry and Allelopathic Effects of Tanacetum vulgare L. (Tansy) Extracts on Lepidium sativum L. (Garden Pepper Cress) and Lactuca sativa L. (Lettuce)
by
Asta Judžentienė, Jurga Būdienė, Donata Stancelytė and Irena Nedveckytė
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060538 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Tanacetum vulgare is a perennial plant growing wild along roadsides, pastures, and agricultural fields. Its prevalence is due to several factors: good climatic adaptability, high self-seeding potential, phenotypic plasticity, multiplying via underground rhizomes and its allelochemicals, which influence the seed germination, root development
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Tanacetum vulgare is a perennial plant growing wild along roadsides, pastures, and agricultural fields. Its prevalence is due to several factors: good climatic adaptability, high self-seeding potential, phenotypic plasticity, multiplying via underground rhizomes and its allelochemicals, which influence the seed germination, root development and the overall vegetation of the surrounding plants. The phytochemistry of tansy extracts and their allelopathic activity on the seed germination and growth of garden pepper cress (Lepidium sativum L.) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) were investigated. The major volatile compounds, 1,8-cineole, camphor and borneol were determined in tansy flower extracts. The leaf extracts contained appreciable amounts of 1,8-cineole and borneol. Feruloylquinic, (di)ferulic and dehydrocaffeoyl-5-caffeoylquinic acids, acacetin, ludovicin С and tanacetin were determined both in leaf and inflorescence extracts. Root extracts contained minor quantities of some terpenoids and polyphenols. Extracts of T. vulgare’s aerial parts showed strong allelopathic effects on model plants. The flower and leaf water extracts inhibited lettuce and pepper cress seed germination and growth the most. According to the fractions, the acidic solution had the strongest effect, followed by neutral and alkaline solutions. At the highest relative concentrations of 0.5 and 1.0 tansy leaf acidic fraction, lettuce seed germination and growth decreased by 89.93% (from 35.07 ± 4.79 to 3.53 ± 2.10 mm) and by 98.46% (from 35.07 ± 4.79 to 0.57 ± 0.98 mm) compared to the control, respectively. Tansy root extracts showed weak effects. Our results demonstrated that the allelopathic inhibitory potential of tansy extracts was higher on garden pepper cress than on lettuce. The presence of allelochemicals in T. vulgare may have a significant impact on plant communities and ecosystems.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
In Vitro Shoot Regeneration and Callogenesis of Sechium compositum (Donn. Sm.) C. Jeffrey for Plant Conservation and Secondary Metabolites Product
by
Riviello-Flores María de la Luz, Castillo-Martínez Carlos Román, Cadena-Iñiguez Jorge, Ruiz-Posadas Lucero del Mar, Soto-Hernández Ramón Marcos, Arévalo-Galarza Ma. de Lourdes and Castillo-Juárez Israel
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060537 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
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Sechium compositum (Cucurbitaceae) is a wild species that is distributed in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, and the border with Guatemala. This species has an intangible biochemical value resulting from the pharmacological relevance of its secondary metabolites. However, as a consequence of the
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Sechium compositum (Cucurbitaceae) is a wild species that is distributed in the Soconusco region, Chiapas, Mexico, and the border with Guatemala. This species has an intangible biochemical value resulting from the pharmacological relevance of its secondary metabolites. However, as a consequence of the lack of knowledge about its importance, it is being displaced from its habitat at an accelerated rate, incurring the risk of genetic loss. Therefore, an in vitro culture protocol with two experimental phases was evaluated to propagate, conserve, and regenerate this species. The first phases considered the shoot propagation, adding seven concentrations (0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 mg mL−1) of 6-benzylaminopurine (BA) and thidiazuron (TDZ) and evaluating the number of buds and shoots and the shoot height. The best multiplication response was recorded with 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, and 1.0 mg L−1 of BA and 0.1 mg L−1 of TDZ, as well as the MS base culture medium. The validation of the results of the first phase (0.1 mg L−1 of BA) was compared with the MS in an independent experiment against the control (n = 50 repetitions), obtaining a height of 52 mm, 1.36 shoots, and 9.22 buds, suggesting that this concentration is adequate for the purpose, surpassing the MS control (MS culture medium alone). Of the total volume of roots obtained with packed bud structure in the previous experimental sample, it was reduced to 14% (n = 50). The second phase consisted of inducing callus formation from stem and leaf explants through the addition of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mg L−1 of TDZ and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) to the medium. Callus induction in S. compositum was better when using the stem in a medium with 2.0 mg L−1 of 2,4-D with a value of 97.8% around the explant. The addition of 500 mg L−1 of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) is also suggested to reduce oxidation. This protocol represents a significant advance in the conservation, multiplication, and callus formation of S. compositum and contributes to its rescue and revaluation in the face of the danger of extinction.
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Potential of Nettle Infusion to Protect Common Bean from Halo Blight Disease
by
Carlota Cerezo, Penélope García-Angulo, Asier Largo-Gosens and María Luz Centeno
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060536 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The use of plant-based preparations to replace chemical pesticides is a challenge for sustainable agriculture. Preparations from nettle (Urtica dioica L.) are good candidates, as the treatment of common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with aqueous suspensions of nettle reduced symptoms
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The use of plant-based preparations to replace chemical pesticides is a challenge for sustainable agriculture. Preparations from nettle (Urtica dioica L.) are good candidates, as the treatment of common bean plants (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with aqueous suspensions of nettle reduced symptoms of halo blight disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola (Pph). The aim of the present work was to test if nettle infusions (Ui) have similar effects and find out what activity is behind this: antimicrobial, promotion of the natural defenses of plants, and/or antioxidant. To achieve this, Pph growth was tested in the presence of infusions of nettle leaves collected in two different years (Ui18 and Ui22), and we found that it was only weakly inhibited at high concentrations of Ui18. Interestingly, Ui22 promoted bacteria growth at all concentrations. Second, we estimated the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to flagellin22 (flg22) in common bean leaf discs, since recognition of this bacterial peptide usually leads to ROS accumulation in tissues as a plant immune response. However, leaf discs that were preincubated in Ui showed no accumulation of ROS after flg22 treatment, suggesting that Ui can neutralize ROS production. Finally, in a Pph inoculation experiment of common bean plants grown in vitro, we observed that pretreatment of plants with Ui drastically reduced foliar oxidative damage and disease symptoms 6 h after inoculation. This effect was more noticeable for Ui22, which was related to the higher antioxidant activity found in this extract in comparison with Ui18. These results suggest that the protective properties of Ui are mainly due to the content of antioxidant bioactive compounds.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Diagnosis, Management, and Epidemiology of Plant Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Identification of Flavonoid 3′-Hydroxylase Genes from Red Chinese Sand Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) and Their Regulation of Anthocyanin Accumulation in Fruit Peel
by
Yi Zhou, Ruiyan Tao, Junbei Ni, Minjie Qian and Yuanwen Teng
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060535 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The red Chinese sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) is native to China and exhibits a unique fruit coloration pattern. Flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) catalyzes the hydroxylation of flavonoids, which subsequently determines the components of anthocyanins and the color of plant organs. Two genes
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The red Chinese sand pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) is native to China and exhibits a unique fruit coloration pattern. Flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) catalyzes the hydroxylation of flavonoids, which subsequently determines the components of anthocyanins and the color of plant organs. Two genes encoding flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H), PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII, have been identified in red Chinese sand pears. The coding regions for PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII were 1542 and 1536 bp in length, respectively. PpF3′HI shared 95% of its amino acid sequence identity with PpF3′HII, and a highly conserved P450 superfamily domain was found both in PpF3′HI and in PpF3′HII. Phylogenetic analysis showed that PpF3′HI and PpF3′HII clustered with MdF3′HI and MdF3′HII, respectively. PpF3′H genes were highly expressed in anthocyanin-enriched tissues such as young leaves, and transcription of PpF3′H genes corresponded to anthocyanin biosynthesis during the developmental stages, bagging treatment, and postharvest UV-B/visible irradiation treatment. A Y1H assay showed that PpMYB10 and PpHY5 could interact with the −419 bp to 0 bp and −746 bp to −396 bp fragments of the PpF3′HI promoter region, respectively. Understanding the mechanism of flavonoid hydroxylation patterns will, in turn, promote the development of new technologies for modifying flavonoid and anthocyanin composition in fruits.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics, Genomics, Breeding, and Biotechnology (G2B2))
Open AccessArticle
Identification and Functional Analysis of the Flower Development-Related TCP Genes in Erycina pusilla
by
Yu-Huan Tang, Ying-Yin Zhong and Xia Huang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060534 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Orchid flowers have evolved in concert with pollinators to form highly specialized structures resulting in zygomorphy. In dicotyledons, it is widely accepted that CYC-like genes are involved in the dorsoventral polarity establishment of flowers, which determines the development of zygomorphic flowers. However,
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Orchid flowers have evolved in concert with pollinators to form highly specialized structures resulting in zygomorphy. In dicotyledons, it is widely accepted that CYC-like genes are involved in the dorsoventral polarity establishment of flowers, which determines the development of zygomorphic flowers. However, the function of TCP transcription factors involved in orchid floral development is rarely known. Here, we found 15 unigenes with TCP domain (EpTCPs) from the previously reported Erycina pusilla unigene database. The expression patterns of EpTCPs in various tissues and different floral organs were successively detected by quantitative real-time PCR. The results revealed that the CYC-like gene (EpTCP25) and CIN-like genes (EpTCP11 and EpTCP26) were highly expressed in inflorescences but lowly expressed in leaves and roots. What is more, these three genes were expressed relatively high in the dorsal labellum, and EpTCP26 showed differential expression along the dorsoventral polarity of tepals, which was high in the dorsal and low in the ventral. Ectopic expression of EpTCP25 in Arabidopsis repressed primary root growth and delayed flowering. EpTCP26 overexpression in Arabidopsis promoted primary root growth and leaf growth. In contrast, EpTCP11 overexpression repressed primary root growth and changed the radially symmetric flower to a bilaterally symmetric flower by inhibiting the elongation of one or two adjacent petals. In addition, the homeotic transition of floral organs is generated when these genes are ectopically expressed in Arabidopsis, suggesting their roles in floral morphogenesis. Altogether, our results indicate that CIN-like genes would be associated with the unique flower pattern development of Erycina pusilla.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Floriculture, Nursery and Landscape, and Turf)
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Open AccessReview
Advances in Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) In Vitro Culture: A Review
by
Suzanna Correia, Manuela Matos and Fernanda Leal
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060533 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
The demand for Vaccinium fruits has skyrocketed due to their nutritional and medicinal properties, notably their high content of phenolic compounds and excellent sensory evaluation. The use of Vaccinium plants and its components as dietary supplements and health ingredients has been on the
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The demand for Vaccinium fruits has skyrocketed due to their nutritional and medicinal properties, notably their high content of phenolic compounds and excellent sensory evaluation. The use of Vaccinium plants and its components as dietary supplements and health ingredients has been on the rise across the world. The attractive fruits contain a high content of anthocyanins and antioxidant compounds. In some popular and valuable cultivars, the conventional propagation methods, exploiting hard or soft wood cuttings, are inefficient. The demand for nursery plants can be fulfilled by micropropagation. This review aims to explore advances in the in vitro culture of Vaccinium plants, focusing on effective disinfection, optimized culture media, and the role of growth regulators in plant development and multiplication. By providing a controlled environment, micropropagation allows the large-scale production of these plants in a short time, ensuring availability throughout the year. Additionally, this technique offers the advantage of studying the effects of abiotic stresses on plants, as well as facilitating research on the production of relevant metabolites. This review seeks to provide an updated overview of the most promising methods and techniques for micropropagation of Vaccinium, thereby contributing to the ongoing development of the blueberry production industry and derivative products.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biotechnology: Applications in In Vitro Plant Conservation and Micropropagation)
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Open AccessEditorial
Ornamental Plant Physiology and Molecular Biology
by
Tuo Zeng and Caiyun Wang
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060532 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Ornamental plants not only beautify our environment, thanks to their vivid colors and diverse forms, but also play a vital role in agriculture, industry, and medicine, reflecting significant scientific and economic value [...]
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Molecular Biology Research on Ornamental Flower)
Open AccessReview
Underutilized Fruit Crops at a Crossroads: The Case of Annona cherimola—From Pre-Columbian to Present Times
by
Nerea Larranaga, Jorge A. Agustín, Federico Albertazzi, Gustavo Fontecha, Wilson Vásquez-Castillo, Ricardo Cautín, Edward Quiroz, Carla Ragonezi and Jose I. Hormaza
Horticulturae 2024, 10(6), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10060531 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
Fruits of the cherimoya tree (Annona cherimola Mill.) were consumed by native cultures in Central America, from where the crop was disseminated to South America in pre-Columbian times. Despite its historical significance and cultivation in subtropical regions worldwide, cherimoya remains an underutilized
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Fruits of the cherimoya tree (Annona cherimola Mill.) were consumed by native cultures in Central America, from where the crop was disseminated to South America in pre-Columbian times. Despite its historical significance and cultivation in subtropical regions worldwide, cherimoya remains an underutilized crop, particularly in its area of origin where the conservation of its genetic diversity is under threat. In this study, we provide a comprehensive overview of the research performed on this fruit tree over the past two decades, shedding light on its current status in terms of commercial production and germplasm conservation efforts in the main cherimoya producing countries in the Americas and Europe.
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(This article belongs to the Section Fruit Production Systems)
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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Insights into Medieval Grape Cultivation in Al-Andalus: Morphometric, Domestication, and Multivariate Analysis of Vitis vinifera Seed Types
by
Javier Valera, Diego Rivera, Gonzalo Matilla-Séiquer, Diego José Rivera-Obón, Carlos-Alvar Ocete, Rafael Ocete, Julio Navarro, Pedro Jiménez, Rafael González, Juan Antonio Ramírez, José María Moreno, José Javier Martínez and Concepción Obón
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050530 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding the origins and evolution of modern grapevine varieties in the Iberian Peninsula and western Europe necessitates an examination of the proportions of Vitis vinifera cultivars, their relationships with wild grapevine populations, and the utilization of seedless cultivars in al-Andalus. Employing morphometric studies,
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Understanding the origins and evolution of modern grapevine varieties in the Iberian Peninsula and western Europe necessitates an examination of the proportions of Vitis vinifera cultivars, their relationships with wild grapevine populations, and the utilization of seedless cultivars in al-Andalus. Employing morphometric studies, domestication indices, multivariate analysis, and Bayesian hypothesis testing, this study investigates several distinct seed types identified in materials from Roman and medieval deposits. These seeds exhibit a spectrum from highly domesticated to purely wild. Our findings reveal the predominance of Proles Occidentalis Negrul, and the presence of feral-like grapevines associated with Proles Euphratica. Additionally, we observe the continuous presence of wild grapevines related to Vitis sylvestris CC Gmelin throughout the studied period. Seeds exhibiting intermediate characteristics are documented, alongside the identification of “stenosperms”, suggesting anomalies in seed formation. Notably, the presence of Vitis vinifera raisins “stenospermocarpics” of the sultana type is suggested, potentially elucidating the absence of table grapes and raisins of the Proles Orientalis Negrul in the archaeological record, despite frequent mentions by medieval agronomy writers from al-Andalus.
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(This article belongs to the Section Viticulture)
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Open AccessArticle
Genetic Mapping for Leaf Shape and Leaf Size in Non-Heading Chinese Cabbage by a RIL Population
by
Tianzi Zhao, Aimei Bai, Xinya Wang, Feixue Zhang, Miaomiao Yang, Yuhui Wang, Tongkun Liu, Xilin Hou and Ying Li
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050529 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
Leaves are the predominant photosynthetic and edible organs in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis, NHCC), contributing significantly to yield, appearance, and desirability to consumers. However, the genetic basis of leaf shape and size in non-heading Chinese cabbage remains unclear.
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Leaves are the predominant photosynthetic and edible organs in non-heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica campestris ssp. chinensis, NHCC), contributing significantly to yield, appearance, and desirability to consumers. However, the genetic basis of leaf shape and size in non-heading Chinese cabbage remains unclear. In this study, we developed a RIL population using ‘Maertou’, with slender leaves and narrow petioles, and ‘Suzhouqing’, with oval leaves and wide petioles, to construct a genetic linkage map and detect QTLs. To obtain stable and reliable QTLs, the 11 leaf-related traits, including the leaf length, leaf width, and fresh weight of the lamina and petiole and the thickness of petiole was observed on two locations—while the leaf shape, petiole shape, index of lamina/petiole length, and index of petiole fresh weight were calculated based on 7 leaf-related traits. QTL mapping illustrated that a total of 27 QTLs for leaf-related traits were preliminarily detected. The candidate genes were annotated and several genes involved in leaf development and leaf shape appeared in the overlapping regions of multiple loci, such as KRP2, GRF4, ARGOS, and SAUR9. This study lays the foundation for further exploration of the genetic mechanisms and development of effective molecular markers for leaf shape and size in NHCC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Vegetable Production Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Effect of Menthol Treatment on the Sprouting and Quality of Potato Tuber
by
Ye Xu, Yang Qin, Qianqian Hou, Defu Niu and Qingmin Chen
Horticulturae 2024, 10(5), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10050528 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
This study used Dutch potatoes at the end of dormancy as a material to explore the impact of menthol (0.2 and 0.5 g/kg based on potato mass) treatment on sprouting inhibition and potato quality. The findings revealed that a menthol concentration of 0.5
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This study used Dutch potatoes at the end of dormancy as a material to explore the impact of menthol (0.2 and 0.5 g/kg based on potato mass) treatment on sprouting inhibition and potato quality. The findings revealed that a menthol concentration of 0.5 g/kg effectively inhibited potato tuber sprouting and significantly reduced glucoside alkaloid production. After a storage period of 15 days, the sprouting percentage and glucoside alkaloid content of potatoes treated with 0.5 g/kg menthol were observed to be significantly lower at 4.17% and 68.63 mg/kg, respectively, compared to the control group which exhibited values of 100% and 282.01 mg/kg, respectively (p < 0.05). Throughout the storage period, 0.5 g/kg of menthol promoted respiration, reduced malondialdehyde production in potatoes, inhibited polyphenol oxidase activity, and slowed down tissue browning. Additionally, it mitigated the decline in starch and soluble protein content, inhibiting the accumulation of reducing sugars.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Physiology and Quality Maintaining of Horticultural Plants)
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