Journal of Horticultural Research 32(1) 2024

ABSTRACT

Variability of air temperature in Skierniewice, poland, over the period 1923-2022

The study aimed to determine the magnitude of changes in air temperature in Skierniewice, Poland, over the last 100 years, with particular emphasis on multi-year variability. The source material for the analyzes were air temperature measurements from 1923 to 2022 obtained from the meteorological station in the Experimental Field of the Warsaw University of Life Sciences and the station in the Experimental Orchard of the National Institute of Horticultural Research. The study presents average annual, minimum, and maximum air temperatures along with an assessment of the trend of their multi-year variability. The features of changes in the average air temperature in Skierniewice presented in the study based on a 100-year series of meteorological measurements are characterized by high temporal variability with a clear upward trend. The average warming rate over 100 years was 0.17°C per 10 years, but in the last 60 years it has already reached 0.38°C per 10 years. In the case of the average annual air temperature since 1981, there has been a sequence of years warmer than average throughout the measurement period. The number of summer days (>25°C) and hot days, when the maximum temperature exceeds 30°C, is also increasing. In the analyzed period, the decade 2013–2022 was the warmest

TRANSLATION

Air temperature variability in Skierniewice, Poland, in 1923-2022

The aim of the study was to determine the magnitude of changes in air temperature in Skierniewice over the last 100 years, with particular emphasis on multi-year variability. The source material for the analyses were documents from air temperature measurements from 1923–2022, obtained from the meteorological station at the SGGW Experimental Field and the station in the Experimental Orchard of the Institute of Horticulture – National Research Institute. The study presents average annual, minimum and maximum air temperatures along with an assessment of the trend in their multi-year variability. The analysis of the course of changes in the average air temperature in Skierniewice based on a 100-year series of measurements showed high temporal variability with a clear upward trend. The average rate of warming over 100 years was 0,17°C per 10 years, but in the last 60 years it has already reached the level of 0,38°C per 10 years. In the case of the average annual air temperature since 1981, there has been a sequence of years warmer than the average value for the entire measurement period. An increase in the number of summer days (>25°C) and hot days (with maximum temperature higher than 30°C) was also observed. In the analyzed period, the warmest decade was 2013–2022.

ABSTRACT

Effect of the biostimulants of microbiological origin on the entomopathogenic and plant parasitic nematodes from Miscanthus × giganteus plantationsroups

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of biostimulants derived from Streptomyces avermitilis metabolites on entomopathogenic nematodes: Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiaeand Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, obtained from the soil of several Miscanthus × giganteus plantations in 2020–2023. The nematodes were isolated, identified, and cultured using live insects (the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella). Three preparations containing biostimulants – Charkor, Stimpo, and Regoplant, were tested for compatibility with entomopathogenic and plant parasitic nematodes. Their effect on nematode survival was evaluated using the Petri dish test. The study showed that the effect of biostimulants on the survival of nematodes depended on the concentration of aversectin contained in the evaluated preparations. Stimpo and Regoplant had an adverse effect on plant parasitic nematodes. The highest G. mellonella mortality was observed at the higher dose of Charkor (0.4%), and the lowest at the lower dose of Regoplant (1.22%). The study showed that the virulence of the nematodes decreased after 48 hours of incubation in Regoplant and Stimpo solutions containing aversectin. The degree of interaction between nematodes depends on the nematode species, trophic preferences, and the concentration of active ingredients in the preparations. This conclusion is crucial for the selection of appropriate types of entomopathogenic nematodes and the application rate of plant parasitic nematodes in the assessment of their short- and long-term spread, persistence, and recycling in field conditions.

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The effect of biostimulants of microbiological origin on entomopathogenic and parasitic nematodes isolated from the soil of a giant miscanthus plantation

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of biostimulants derived from metabolites Streptomyces avermitilis for entomopathogenic nematodes: Steinernema carpocapsae, Steinernema feltiae and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, isolated from the soil on plantations Miscanthus × giganteus in 2020–2023. The nematodes were cultured using live insects (greater wax moth Galleria mellonella). The influence of three preparations – Charkor, Stimpo and Regoplant, containing biostimulants, on the survival of entomopathogenic and parasitic nematodes was examined using a Petri dish test. The studies showed that the influence of biostimulants on the survival of parasitic nematodes depended on the concentration of aversectin, which was a component of Stimpo and Regoplant. The highest mortality G. mellon was observed at a higher dose of Charkor (0,4%), while the lowest at a lower dose of Regoplant (1,22%). The virulence of nematodes decreased after 48 hours of incubation in Regoplant and Stimpo solutions. The degree of interaction between nematodes depended on their species, trophic preferences and the concentration of active ingredients in the preparations. This conclusion is crucial for the selection of appropriate types of entomopathogenic nematodes and the dose of nematicidal preparations in limiting plant parasitic nematodes and for the assessment of short- and long-term spread of nematodes, persistence and recycling in field conditions.

ABSTRACT

In vitro effectiveness of three potential bioagents against Lasiodiplody theobromae, causal agent of postharvest fruit deterioration of avocadoon estimation using machine learning methods

The postharvest rot fungus, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, poses a significant threat to the avocado trade in Ghana as it discounts both the quality and shelf life of freshly harvested avocado fruits. This study evaluated the biological effect of three bioagents, garlic, baking soda, and black pepper, on mitigating postharvest rots of avocado fruits caused by L. theobromae. Isolates of L. theobromae obtained from spoiled fruits were identified using morphological, molecular, and pathogenicity procedures. Eight isolates of L. theobromae were similar in morphology and pathogenicity and genetic markers (ITS). The three bioagents, garlic and pepper seed powder, and baking soda, were evaluated vitro using the food poison technique at two concentrations, 10 g and 20 g per 100 ml of water. Garlic at 20 g/100 ml of water completely inhibited mycelium growth, followed with 10 g/l (7.8%), and baking soda at 20 g/l (32.6%). Further studies of these bioagents on fruit are recommended.

TRANSLATION

Evaluation of effectiveness in vitro three biopreparations against Lasiodiplodia theobromae, a fungus that causes avocado fruit to rot after harvesting

Lasiodiplodia theobromae, a fungus that causes postharvest rot, poses a serious threat to the avocado trade in Ghana as it impairs both the quality and shelf life of freshly harvested fruit. The study assessed the biological effects of three biopreparations, garlic, baking soda and black pepper seeds, in reducing postharvest rot of avocado fruit caused by L. theobromae. Isolates L. theobromae obtained from spoiled fruits were identified using morphological, molecular and pathogenicity assessment procedures. Eight isolates L. theobromae were similar in terms of morphology, pathogenicity and genetic markers (ITS). Three preparations – garlic bulb and pepper seed powder and baking soda, were evaluated in vitro, using two concentrations – 10 g and 20 g per 100 ml of water. Garlic at a concentration of 20 g per 100 ml of water completely inhibited mycelium growth, followed by 10 g/l (7,8%) and baking soda at a concentration of 20 g/l (32,6%). Further studies of these biofactors on fruits are recommended.

ABSTRACT

Identification and validation of new reference genes for normalization of gene expression in flower and berry developmental stages of interspecific grape hybrid V. vinifera(L.) × V. labrusca(L.)

In quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), normalizing target gene expression using a reference gene is an indispensable step to control the variability of RNA extraction yield, RNA integrity, reverse transcription efficiency, and PCR amplification. In the present study, we identified candidate reference genes with stable expression during grapes' flowering and berry development stages. This genes, including ACT, CYP5, RLI, TUB, UBC, UBC17, UBC60, UFD1, VAGand ZNF with relatively stable expression, were selected based on RNAseq data generated earlier in grape hybrid 'ARI 516'. The expression of these candidate genes was tested at different stages of flowering and grape berry development. Five different algorithms such as RefFinder, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and the comparative ΔCq method were used to test the expression stability of candidate genes. A comprehensive ranking obtained by RefFinder showed that UBC17, RLIand ZNF were the most stable reference genes during flower and berry development stages. UBC17, RLIand ZNF were calibrators to normalize the expression of VvAGL11 as a target gene to validate the worthiness of identified reference genes. The result demonstrated that newly identified reference genes could be successfully used to normalize the expression of the target gene accurately. These reference genes will provide more choices for selecting appropriate reference genes to normalize gene expression in grapes.

TRANSLATION

Identification and validation of new reference genes for normalization of gene expression at different stages of flower and berry development of an interspecific hybrid Vitis vinifera (L.) × V. labrusca (L.)

In quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the normalization experiment of target gene expression using a reference gene is an essential step to control the variability of RNA extraction efficiency, RNA integrity, reverse transcription efficiency and PCR amplification. In the present study, candidate reference genes with stable expression during the flowering and fruit development stages were identified. Based on the RNAseq data generated previously in the grape hybrid 'ARI 516', ten genes were selected: ACT, CYP5, RLI, TUB, UBC, UBC17, UBC60, UFD1, VAG i ZNF. The expression of these candidate genes was examined at different stages of flowering and berry development. Five different algorithms were used to test the stability of candidate gene expression, such as: RefFinder, geNorm, NormFinder, BestKeeper and the ΔCq comparative method. The comprehensive ranking obtained by RefFinder showed that UBC17, RLI i ZNF were the most stable reference genes at the flower and berry development stages and could therefore be used to calibrate expression VvAGL11 (as a target gene) and can be used to check the suitability of the identified reference genes. The result showed that the newly identified reference genes can be successfully used for accurate normalization of the target gene expression.

ABSTRACT

Effect of drying method on the nutritional and antioxidant properties of mango, avocado, and tomato

The present study aims to evaluate nutrient retention in mango, avocado, and dried tomato using freezing, refraction windows, and oven methods. The quality parameters of the dried products were assessed, such as color, water activity, and antioxidant content. Greater color retention was observed for freeze-dried products than for products dried using other methods. All products showed low water activity (>0.4), which prevented microbial growth. Freeze-dried products had the highest content of lycopene and carotenoids. Instead, more flavonoids and phenolics were detected in the refraction window method and then in the oven-dried products. Although freeze-dried products are preferred, the refraction windows method could be a promising drying technology because of its energy savings, easy operations, and low cost.

TRANSLATION

The effect of drying method on the nutritional and antioxidant properties of mango, avocado and tomato

The aim of this study was to evaluate the nutrient retention of mango, avocado and tomato fruits dried by freeze-dried, refractive window and heat-dried methods. Quality parameters of dried fruit such as colour, water activity and antioxidant content were assessed. Freeze-dried products showed better colour stability than products dried by other methods. All products showed low water activity (>0,4), which prevented microbial growth. The highest content of lycopene and carotenoids was found in freeze-dried products. On the other hand, more flavonoids and phenols were detected in fruits dried by refractive window method, followed by oven-dried products. Although freeze-dried products were preferred, the refractive window method may be a promising drying technology due to its energy saving, easy operation and low cost.

ABSTRACT

Gibberellic acid spray modulates fruiting, yield, quality, and shelf life of rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.)

A lucrative and delicious nonclimacteric tropical fruit, rambutan, has disadvantages of inadequate fruiting, low yield, and inferior edibility at farm level that need to be addressed. Moreover, unstable tropical temperatures and humidity threaten poor fruit set and insufficient rambutan yields. Therefore, the study revealed the effectiveness of gibberellic acid (GA₃) on fruit set and retention, fruit size and yield, shelf life, and postharvest properties of rambutan under these atmospheric conditions. GA₃ at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 ppm, apart from the control (without GA₃), was applied to panicles twice in the early flowering and the early fruiting stages (thirty days after the first spraying). The results showed that maximum fruit set (223.2 per panicle), retention (13.2 per panicle, 5.9%), and yield (714.0 g per panicle) were obtained by GA₃ treatment at 300 ppm. In addition to increasing fruit size (54.1 g) and pulp weight (31.3 g), GA₃ at a dose of 300 ppm significantly reduced seed weight by 27.5% and increased the edible portion by 26.6% compared to the control. Notably, preharvest GA₃ treatment increased TSS content (19.0%), total sugar (4.5%), and shelf life (11.5 days), while it decreased titratable acidity (0.4%) of rambutan. GA₃ doses from 200 to 500 ppm had similar effects in terms of affecting the edible properties and shelf life of rambutan. However, fruit set, retention, and yield exhibited distinct dose-dependent responses, with 300 ppm being the best and 200 ppm consistent with the best, with some differences. Regression analysis showed a skewed curve explaining higher yield and better fruit quality at the medium GA₃ treatment level (250–350 ppm). In comparison, lower (< 200 ppm) and higher (> 400 ppm) doses resulted in worse results in most cases. Therefore, regulated use of GA₃ is necessary to improve rambutan yield and fruit quality.

TRANSLATION

Spraying with gibberellic acid affects the fruiting, yield, quality and shelf life of rambutan fruit. (Nephelium L.)

Rambutan cultivation is risky due to insufficient fruit set, low yields and poor edibility. Unstable tropical temperatures and humidity cause poor fruit set and insufficient yields. The study revealed the positive effect of gibberellic acid (GA)₃) on the setting and size of fruits, their yield, shelf life and quality of rambutan fruits. GA₃ in concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm as a spray on panicles was applied twice: at the early flowering stage and early fruiting stage (thirty days after the first spray). The results showed that the maximum fruit set (223,2 per panicle), retention (13,2 per panicle, 5,9%) and yield (714,0 g per panicle) were obtained with GA application₃ at a concentration of 300 ppm. In addition to increasing the fruit weight (54,1 g) and pulp weight (31,3 g), GA₃ at a concentration of 300 ppm significantly reduced the seed mass by 27,5% and increased the edible part by 26,6% compared to the control (water spray). Application of GA₃ also increased the TSS content (19,0%) and total sugar (4,5%) in the fruit, extended the shelf life (11,5 days), and reduced the titratable acidity (0,4%). GA solutions₃ in concentrations from 200 to 500 ppm showed similar effects on the flavor and shelf life of rambutan fruit. Fruit set, shelf life and yield were dependent on the concentration, with 300 ppm being the most beneficial and 200 ppm slightly less. Regression analysis showed higher yield and better fruit quality at the medium GA concentration₃ (250–350 ppm). In comparison, lower and higher concentrations in most cases resulted in reduced fruit yield and characteristics. Therefore, regulated use of GA₃ is necessary to improve the yield and quality of rambutan fruit.

ABSTRACT

Evaluation of the effectiveness of Millettia pachyloba Drake leaf ethanol extract in alleviating oxidative stress induced by diamondback moth infestation in mustard greens [Brassica juncea (L.) Black. & coss.]

The global threat that the diamondback moth (DBM) (Plutella xylostella) you have it Brassica juncea creates an urgent need to develop effective mitigation strategies. With promising findings, this study explores the potential of plant-derived antioxidants, particularly Millettia pachyloba, in mitigating DBM-induced oxidative stress. Greenhouse experiments conducted using M. pachyloba leaf ethanol extract (MPEE) at concentrations of 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10% (w/v) showed the inhibitory effect of MPEE on DBM damage in B. juncea. The comprehensive assessment included the effectiveness of MPEE in reducing oxidative stress markers (malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide), augmenting metabolites (flavonoids, phenolics), enhancing anti-oxidant compounds (glutathione, ascorbic acid, total protein), and stimulating key enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase). The results were compared to controls, in which the plants were treated with water or fipronil. Fipronil and MPEE significantly reduced leaf puncturing and damage, and the impact force increased with MPEE concentration. Both types of protection reduced the content of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in leaves, stems, and roots. However, a significant increase in the content of flavonoids, phenolic and antioxidant compounds (glutathione, ascorbic acid, and proteins) and enzyme activity (superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase, and catalase) was observed. The enhancement of metabolites, enzymes, and antioxidants was comparable in plants treated with fipronil and MPEE 10%. This study, with its potential to replace synthetic fipronil with M. pachyloba extracts to reduce oxidative stress induced by Plutella xylostella on mustard plants, offers a promising solution for protection against this insect.

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Evaluation of the effectiveness of ethanol extract from leaves Millettia pachyloba in alleviating oxidative stress of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Black.& coss.), caused by the invasion of the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella)

The Crusader Dancer (Plutella xylostella) is a global problem in crops Brassica juncea, which creates an urgent need to develop effective control strategies. In this experiment, the possibility of alleviating oxidative stress induced by feeding of this insect was assessed. In the greenhouse experiment, ethanol extract from leaves was used Millettia pachyloba in concentrations of 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10% (w/v) to evaluate its effect on the damage caused by the insect on B. juncea. The comprehensive evaluation included the extract's efficacy in reducing oxidative stress (based on markers malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide), increasing the amount of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, enhancing antioxidant compounds (glutathione, ascorbic acid, total protein) and stimulating key enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase). The results were compared with the control, in which the plants were treated with water or fipronil. Application of ethanolic extracts M. pachyloba significantly reduced leaf damage, and the effectiveness increased with the extract concentration. The use of fipronil and the extract reduced the concentration of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in leaves, stems and roots. There was a significant increase in the concentration of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, antioxidant compounds and enzyme activity. The effects of fipronil and the extract at a concentration of 10% were comparable. This study indicates the possibility of replacing synthetic fipronil with an ethanol extract from leaves M. pachyloba in reducing oxidative stress caused by P. xylostella on mustard, and thus safer protection against this insect.

ABSTRACT

Phenotypic characteristics, pathogenicity, and molecular identification of Hypomyces pernicious wet bubble disease of edible mushrooms causing

The research aimed to determine the phenotypic characteristic, pathogenicity and molecular characterization of Hypomyces perniciosus isolates responsible for wet bubble disease of the white button mushroom Agaricus bisporus. Phenotypic characteristics such as colony appearance, mycelium texture, and pigmentation were studied on four different agar media, i.e., potato dextrose agar (PDA), malt extract agar (MEA), Czapek-Dox yeast agar (CYA), and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA), after eight days of incubation. Additionally, the growth rate of the tested isolates was studied depending on the pH of the medium. Fungal isolates showed the highest mycelial growth on MEA and SDA at pH 6.0. However, on CYA at pH 7.0, the mycelium exhibited the worst growth. Isolate identification and genetic relationship analysis were carried out using internal transcribed spacer region sequencing and the random amplified polymorphic DNA method. The research confirmed that all Polish isolates belong to the species H. pernicious, and the genetic diversity is relatively low. Phylogenetic analyzes revealed three subgroups of H. pernicious isolates. The first group included three genetically distinct isolates with a similarity coefficient in the range of 0.76–0.85 to isolates CBS 815.73 and CBS 322.52. The second group was divided into two subgroups and included 16 isolates with a genetic similarity range of 0.91 to 1.0 to CBS 815.73 and CBS 322.52 isolates. Furthermore, the eight genetically similar isolates exhibited the greatest pathogenicity towards A. bisporus.

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Phenotypic characterization, pathogenicity and molecular identification of the fungus Hypomyces perniciosus causing wet rot of mushrooms

The aim of the study was to identify molecular features and assess the phenotypic characteristics and pathogenicity of isolates. Hypomyces perniciosus, responsible for white rot in mushroom cultivation. Phenotypic features of fungi, such as colony morphology, shape, size, surface, structure and pigmentation, were examined after 8 days of growth on four different agar media, i.e. potato dextrose agar (PDA), malt extract agar (MEA), Czapek-Doxa yeast agar (CYA) and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA). The growth rate of mycelium was also examined in relation to the pH of the medium. The isolates tested showed the best growth on MEA and SDA at pH 6,0, while the worst growth was observed on CYA at pH 7,0. Identification and molecular analysis of the isolates were performed using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region sequencing and the RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) method. The studies confirmed that all Polish isolates belong to the species H. pernicious, and their genetic diversity is relatively small. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of three groups of isolates H. perniciousThe first group included three isolates that were genetically different from the others, and their similarity coefficient to the reference isolates CBS 815,73 and CBS 322,52 ranged from 0,76 to 0,85. The second group (divided into two subgroups) included 16 isolates with a genetic similarity coefficient to the reference isolates ranging from 0,91 to 1,0. The highest pathogenicity to the button mushroom was demonstrated by eight genetically similar isolates.

ABSTRACT

Morphophysiological parameters and leek seed production depending on Fulvohumin treatment and date of planting seedlings

Producing leek seeds without replanting one-year-old plants is cheaper and more practical, but can be risky in climates with cold winters. This research aimed to assess whether accelerating the planting of seedlings and using Fulvohumin fertilizer, containing, among others, humic acids can make such production less risky. Three dates were used for planting leek seedlings: April 10, April 25, and May 10. Fulvohumin was used presowing, foliarly, and both. Both factors significantly improved seed production. The best results were obtained at the earliest planting date, as the plants were strong and best prepared for the generative phase and the frost period. Fulvohumin significantly improved growth and development parameters, mainly when used before sowing and as foliar application. In the best combination, with two applications of fertilizers, the seed yield increased by 39%, compared to the control (without Fulvohumin fertilization), and the seed yield of plants planted on April 10 was 17% higher compared to plants planted on April 25 (considered as standard) and 39% higher than those planted on May 10. Seed yield varied in the three subsequent years of the study, but each year, the planting date and Fulvohumin had a similar effect on seed yield.

TRANSLATION

Morphophysiological parameters and leek seed production depending on the use of Fulvohumin and the planting date

Leek seed production without transplanting annual plants is easier, but can be risky in a climate with frosty winters. The aim of the study was to check whether accelerating sowing and using Fulvohumin fertilizer (containing humic acids, among others) can reduce this risk. Three planting dates were used: April 10, April 25 and May 10. Fulvohumin was applied before sowing to seeds, foliar, and before sowing and foliar. Both the planting date and Fulvohumin had a significant effect on seed yield. The best results were obtained with the earliest planting date, because strong plants were obtained, best prepared to survive frosts and to form generative organs. Fulvohumin significantly improved plant growth and development parameters, especially with combined pre-sowing and foliar application, when seed yield increased by 39% compared to the control. The seed yield from plants planted on April 10 was 17% higher than from plants planted on April 25 (this date is considered standard) and 39% higher than from plants planted on May 10. In the three consecutive years of the study, the seed yield was varied, but each year the effect of planting date and Fulvohumin on seed yield was similar.