Plant Productions

The effect of foliar application of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and nicotinic acid on the growth, yield, and morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)

Sepideh Dalvand; Hasan Mumivand; Bahman Zahedi; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 23 October 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47919.2204

Abstract

IntroductionBiostimulants, such as amino acids and nitrogen-containing compounds, play a vital role in the biochemical and physiological processes of plants. These molecules serve as ... Read More IntroductionBiostimulants, such as amino acids and nitrogen-containing compounds, play a vital role in the biochemical and physiological processes of plants. These molecules serve as precursors and raw materials for the production of other essential compounds and are crucial for the regulation and control of cellular activities and various biological systems. Amino acids and nitrogen-containing compounds are essential for optimal plant growth and development, and improving nitrogen nutrition and amino acid management can enhance plant growth, yield, and resilience to environmental stresses. Foliar application of amino acids and nitrogen-containing biostimulants helps plants channel more of their stored energy into growth, development, and overall quality.Materials and MethodsThis study aimed to investigate the effects of amino acid and nitrogen-containing biostimulants on the growth, performance, and morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics of fenugreek at Lorestan University. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with 10 treatments and three replications. The treatments included a control (spraying with distilled water) and foliar applications of aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and nicotinic acid, each at three levels (75, 150, and 300 mg/L). The first foliar application was performed during the 4 to 6 leaf stage, with subsequent applications every 14 days (for a total of 4 applications).Results and DiscussionThe results indicated that applying nicotinic acid and aspartic acid at a concentration of 300 mg/L significantly increased plant height. Foliar application of all three biostimulants at concentrations of 150 and 300 mg/L resulted in a significant increase in leaf area and fresh weight of root. The application of nicotinic acid and aspartic acid also led to a significant increase in the fresh weight of the plant. However, the positive effect of nicotinic acid on plant fresh weight was greater than that of aspartic acid. Nicotinic acid treatment at all three levels increased the dry weight of plant. Foliar application of glutamic acid and aspartic acid at concentrations of 150 and 300 mg/L also increased the dry weight of plant. However, root dry weight increased only with concentrations of 150 and 300 mg/L of nicotinic acid and aspartic acid, and 300 mg/L of glutamic acid. Foliar application of all three compounds—glutamic acid, nicotinic acid, and aspartic acid—resulted in significant increases in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll. The most positive effect on chlorophyll was observed with aspartic acid application. Carotenoid levels were also significantly increased with the application of nicotinic acid and aspartic acid compared to the control, while glutamic acid only increased carotenoids at the highest concentration. Photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, CO2 concentration under the stomatal chamber, and total nitrogen were significantly increased with the foliar application of all three compounds—glutamic acid, nicotinic acid, and aspartic acid.ConclusionThe results of the present study showed that the application of biostimulants such as nicotinic acid, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid generally led to improvements in the studied characteristics. Overall, it can be concluded that the use of biostimulants, particularly nicotinic acid and aspartic acid (especially at a concentration of 300 mg/L), is recommended for improving the growth, performance, and morpho-physiological traits of fenugreek.

Investigating the effect of natural compounds before and post-harvest on the physicochemical characteristics of apple (Malus domestica cv. Golden Delicious) fruit

Fatemeh Eini Tari; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia; Hasan Mumivand; Mohamad Reza Raji

Volume 48, Issue 1 , April 2025, , Pages 87-103

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47136.2177

Abstract

IntroductionThe global demand for a healthy lifestyle has increased significantly in recent years. This growing awareness has highlighted the need for better preservation and storage ... Read More IntroductionThe global demand for a healthy lifestyle has increased significantly in recent years. This growing awareness has highlighted the need for better preservation and storage of fresh produce, particularly fruits, due to their rich vitamin and mineral content. Additionally, the increase in post-harvest waste has underscored the importance of using natural, eco-friendly compounds to extend shelf life, minimize waste, and maintain high nutritional value without introducing harmful substances. Materials and MethodsThis study was conducted as a factorial experiment using a completely randomized design with four replications. The first factor included pre- and post-harvest foliar treatments, with control treatments (spraying with distilled water), chitosan (50 mg l-1), Nano-chitosan (50 and 100 mg l-1) and the post-harvest immersion (Calcium chloride solution (0 and 2 %)). The second factor was storage duration (0, 60, 90 and 120 days). The study was carried out on Golden Delicious apples grafted onto MM 111 (Malling Merton 111) rootstock. Pre-harvest foliar spraying was carried out in an 18-year-old apple orchard in Abestan region of Khorramabad, while post-harvest immersion treatments were carried out at Lorestan University. After harvesting, the apples were initially washed with distilled water, dried, and immersed in a calcium chloride solution at room temperature for 8 minutes. To remove excess surface moisture, the treated fruits were placed in plastic fruit boxes and stored in a refrigerator at 4 °C with 80-90% relative humidity until the evaluation period. The study examined physiological and biochemical characteristics such as weight loss, acidity, titratable acids, soluble solids, ripening index, vitamin C content, and malondialdehyde levels. Results and DiscussionThe results of this study indicated that the applied treatments significantly affected the physicochemical characteristics of Golden Delicious apples. Treated fruits exhibited lower weight loss compared to the control group. Biochemical analyses further confirmed the beneficial effects of all treatments on the evaluated parameters. The highest level of titratable acids, vitamin C, along with the lowest acidity and malondialdehyde content, were observed in apples subjected to the combined treatment of nano chitosan and calcium chloride. Additionally, the treatments led to a reduction in soluble solids content and the fruit ripening index. Coatings such as chitosan function as barriers with selective permeability to oxygen and carbon dioxide, modifying the surrounding atmosphere by increasing carbon dioxide levels and reducing oxygen concentration. This altered gaseous composition helps slow the respiration rate and ethylene production, thereby delaying the aging process and extending the fruit’s shelf life. Calcium also helps strengthen and maintain the integrity of the cell wall, ultimately preventing membrane deterioration and the increase in malondialdehyde in the fruit. Also, using calcium chloride plays a key role in strengthening cell walls, preserving the structure and function of membranes, and increasing the ability of cells to retain water. ConclusionOverall, the findings suggest that pre-harvest application of 100 mg/L chitosan nanoparticle, combined with post-harvest immersion in a 2% calcium chloride solution, yielded the most favorable results across most measured parameters. This combined treatment effectively preserved fruit quality and extended storage life, making it a promising approach for reducing post-harvest losses in Golden Delicious apples.

The effect of salinity stress and the application of silver nanoparticles on flowering and some physico-biochemical characteristics of French parsley (Tagetes patula L.)

Khatoun Behzad; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia; Mohamadreza Raji; Hasan Moumivand; Majid Alikhani-Koupaei

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, , Pages 275-291

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.45252.2130

Abstract

IntroductionSalinity stress leads to ion toxicity and osmotic stress. Salinity stress through the osmotic mechanism, due to the reduction of the osmotic potential of the soil solution, ... Read More IntroductionSalinity stress leads to ion toxicity and osmotic stress. Salinity stress through the osmotic mechanism, due to the reduction of the osmotic potential of the soil solution, causes disturbances in transpiration and photosynthesis. The mechanism of action of ionic toxicity is also related to ion absorption and changes in physiological processes caused by toxicity, deficiency or change in the balance of mineral elements. In the last decade, the tendency to use metal nanoparticle compounds in agriculture and horticultural sciences has become popular. Researchers believe that silver nanoparticles are absorbed faster by plants due to their small size and high solubility, therefore, by using these materials, optimal conditions for plant growth are created and stress conditions are prevented in the plant.Materials and MethodsThe experiment was conducted in the greenhouse of Horticultural Science Department, Faculty of Agriculture located in Khorramabad city, Lorestan province in 2021. The experiment was conducted as a factorial in the form of a completely randomized design with four replications. The first factor was included salinity treatment at four levels (0, 25, 50 and 100 mM NaCl, respectively equivalent to 0.067, 2.450, 5.440 and 9.520 dS m-1) and the second factor was foliar application of nanosilver at 4 levels (0, 10, 50 and 100 ppm). Salinity treatments were started gradually with the application of low concentration of salt after establishing the plants in the pot. Nano silver foliar spraying was applied weekly for 5 times until the flowering stage. Foliar spraying with silver nanoparticles was done in 3 stages of four leaves, full growth and flowering.Results and DiscussionIn this study, application of nanosilver increased the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of parsley, including the fresh weight of the flower (by 2.23%). Nanosilver in concentrations of 10 and 50 mg/liter increases the relative content of leaf water (7.70%), the content of total phenol (5.96%), the content of total flavonoids (34.91%) and the amount of potassium in leaves (4.055 %) under salinity stress conditions. Additionally, the lowest amount of sodium leaf (0.162 %), ion leakage (25.44 %) and malondialdehyde (21.56 %) was observed in this treatment. Researchers believe that silver nanoparticles are absorbed faster by plants due to their small size and high solubility, therefore, by using these materials, optimal conditions for plant growth are created and any stressful conditions are prevented in the plant. Silver nanoparticles with suitable size and remarkable chemical stability remain in constant shape and size in solutions.ConclusionBased on the results observed in this study, the treatment of silver nanoparticles in concentrations of 10 and 50 ppm in the conditions of salinity stress, relative water content of leaves, potassium content of leaves, fresh and dry weight of flowers and time of budding and flowering were increased, while ion leakage, malondialdehyde, proline, total phenol and flavonoid content, and sodium content of leaves were decreased. Therefore, it can be stated that the application of silver nanoparticles in the form of foliar spraying at levels of 10 and 50 ppm can reduce the negative effects caused by salinity stress and improve the ornamental characteristics of parsley in 25 and 50 mM of salinity stress..

Investigating the effects of post-harvest application of nanocellulose/carvacrol composite coating on the physico-biochemical characteristics of physalis fruit

Leila Feryidouni; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia; Hassan Moumivand; Mohamadreza Raji

Volume 46, Issue 4 , March 2024, , Pages 569-582

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2023.42926.2078

Abstract

IntroductionFood safety is one of the important issues related to fresh fruits and vegetables. Most natural compounds are degradable and can be a safe compound for human health and ... Read More IntroductionFood safety is one of the important issues related to fresh fruits and vegetables. Most natural compounds are degradable and can be a safe compound for human health and the environment and an alternative to synthetic compounds. Research has shown that the combination of bioactive substances such as essential oils, plant extracts and nanocomposites increases the active effect of the coating as fruit packaging and reduces the rate of fruit deterioration. Materials and MethodsIn this research, physalis fruits were obtained from Khorramabad research greenhouse. Nanocellulose and pure carvacrol (extracted from Satureja khuzistanica Jamza ( were prepared from Nanovin Nano Polymer Company and GC/MS analysis from Khorramabad Pharmaceutical Company, respectively. Also, the combination of nanocellulose with carvacrol was prepared in the laboratory. The experiment was conducted as a factorial experiment with two factors in a completely randomized design with 4 replications. The first factor of material type in specific concentrations at nine levels (control, Car 0.3%, Car 0.6%, CNF 0.5%, CNF 1.5%, Car 0.3 + CNF 0.5%, Car 0.3 + CNF 1.5%, Car 0.6 + CNF 0.5 %, Car 0.6+CNF 1.5% and the second storage time factor was investigated at four levels (0, 45, 90 and 135 days). First, the fruits of Physalis were washed with distilled water, and then the extra leaves and damaged fruits were removed. The fruits were placed in the prepared solution for 2-3 minutes and after applying the treatment, the fruits were placed in a refrigerator with a temperature of 4 °and 90% RH. Results and DiscussionThe results showed that the fruits treated with nanocellulose and carvacrol had less weight loss and higher tissue firmness. Byochemiucal analysis also showed the positive effect of the treatments on parameters, so that the highest TA and vitamin C and the lowest amount of pH were obtained in the combined treatments of nanocellulose and nanocellulose/carvacrol. Also, the treatments used reduced the TSS and fruit TSS/TA ratio of the fruits, and the combined treatments had the lowest amount. The nanocellulose coating prevents water loss and reduces the metabolic and respiration processes. Also, nanocellulose/carvacrol composite coatings lead to an increase in the pH of cytochrome oxidase by reducing internal oxygen, and this enzyme increases the rate of ascorbic acid decomposition. By coating on the fruit during the post-harvest period, the aging process of the fruit is reduced the production and effect of ethylene, reducing respiration and preserving the cell wall, which ultimately leads to better preservation of TSS. Therefore, any reduction in metabolic activities causes a reduction in fruit ethylene biosynthesis and action. ConclusionIn general, the results of the research showed that the investigated characteristics of physalis fruit were influenced by the treatments. As treated samples, weight loss was less, pH, soluble solids and taste index were lower, tissue firmness, titratable acids and vitamin C were higher. According to the general results, it can be stated that the application of nanocellulose/carvacrol composite treatments, especially the Car 0.6+CNF 1.5% treatment, showed more favorable results than the application of each one alone in most features..

Pre-harvest application of chitosan and nano-chitosan on enzymatic activities, quality and sensory indicators of fresh pistachios (Pistacia vera L. cv 'Ahmad Aghaei')

Shirin Taghipour; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia; Hossein Hokmabadi

Volume 46, Issue 1 , June 2023, , Pages 51-63

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2023.41148.2042

Abstract

Introduction Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) is one of the most important and popular tree nuts in the world. The kernels of this product are rich in oil (more than 50%) and contain linolenic, ... Read More Introduction Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) is one of the most important and popular tree nuts in the world. The kernels of this product are rich in oil (more than 50%) and contain linolenic, linoleic and oleic acid, which are essential for the human diet. Pistachio is also one of the important export products that is of strategic importance in the field of non-petroleum exports and currency and its role in the agricultural and national economy is significant and valuable. In addition to its economic value, pistachios are rich in essential nutrients such as phenolic compounds, anthocyanins, unsaturated and tonic fatty acids, the consumption of which has a great impact on health, well-being and community empowerment. The use of biodegradable, edible, and antimicrobial films and coatings as a suitable alternative to synthetic preservatives is important in order to maintain food security and prevent wastage of capital. Materials and Methods This study was performed in 2021 in the Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University and Green Tat Research Garden in Qazvin province. In this experiment, the effect of pre-harvest foliar application of chitosan (0, 500 and 1000 mg/l) and nano- chitosan (0, 250 and 500 mg/l) on the qualitative and sensory characteristics, activity of antioxidant enzymes and shelf life of fresh pistachios 'Ahmad Aghaei' cultivar in four different times (0, 25, 50 and 75 days after harvest) were stored in the cold storage at 4 ±0.5° C and 80% RH. The studied traits included, fruit kernel firmness, weight loss percentage, antioxidant enzyme activity, acid value, peroxide values (PV) and sensory properties were measured at different times. Results and Discussion The results showed that the fruits treated with nano-chitosan 500 mg/l had the highest tissue firmness (8.13 N). The lowest percentage of weight loss was observed in nano-chitosan 250 mg/l treatment on the 25th day (0.14%). The activity of superoxide dismutase enzyme in fruits treated with nano-chitosan 500 mg/l also increased. The lowest polyphenol oxidase activity belonged to nano-chitosan 250 mg/l treatment and the highest guaiacol peroxidase activity was observed in chitosan 1000 mg/l treatment. The lowest and highest amount of peroxide values was obtained in the treatment of nano-chitosan 250 mg/l and control, respectively, on days 0 and 75 days after storage. The amount of free fatty acids increased during storage and the increase was slower in chitosan and nano-chitosan treatments, so that the lowest amount of free fatty acids in nano-chitosan treatment was 250 mg/l in day 0 and the highest amount of free fatty acid in control treatment was observed on the 75th day. Fresh pistachios coated with nano-chitosan 500 and 250 mg/liter significantly showed the highest average sensory scores in marketability index, skin appearance, smile and texture crispness compared to the control. Conclusion According to the results, it can be stated that the application of nano-chitosan 250 mg/l in the pre-harvest stage, due to maintaining qualitative and sensory characteristics, and increasing the shelf life of fresh pistachios up to 75 days compared to the control, and as a natural and biodegradable compound is recommended.

Evaluation of Some Chrysanthemum Cultivars Using Morphological Traits in Beiran-Shahr, Lorestan Province

Shirin Taghipour; Abdollah Ehteshamnia; Hamed Khodayari; Hassan Mumivand

Volume 42, Issue 1 , April 2019, , Pages 47-62

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2019.22802.1496

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives Chrysanthemum, due to numerous applications in floriculture and medicinal industries has been considered one of the most important ornamental ... Read More Abstract Background and Objectives Chrysanthemum, due to numerous applications in floriculture and medicinal industries has been considered one of the most important ornamental plants and medicinal plants in the global area. In addition to being used as a cut flower, it also has a special place among potted flowers and gardens. Also, it is used as a medicinal plant with strong healing properties in traditional Chinese medicine and considered to treat eye diseases, headaches, colds, and etc. However, only a few reports have been presented in the field of genetic diversity of Chrysanthemums by morphological and molecular markers. Therefore, there is a need for further identification of germplasm and cultivars of Chrysanthemums in Iran. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of 15 cultivars of Chrysanthemums based on morphological characteristics and selection of cultivar adapted to Khorramabad region. Materials and Methods This experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design with three replications in the area of Beiran-Shahr, Lorestan province in 2017. Twenty-one morphological characteristics were determined from fresh materials. These traits in accordance with the given instructions describing World UPOV Chrysanthemums, were measured. Quantitative measurements were carried out on 10 leaves per cultivars. Some variables including diameter (branches, petioles, discs, buds and flowers) were measured by digital caliper. The traits such as length and width of leaf, plant height, length and width of the tab florets with ruler were measured. Results Based on data analysis most of the traits in cultivars showed significant differences (p≤0.01). Results showed that the correlation between leaf area with leaf width, petiole diameter and number of leaves has a positive and significant correlation with the probability level of 5%. The most significant and negative correlation (r = 0.99) was observed between number of flowers per plant and number of florets. Based on the results obtained from principal components analysis, seven independent and major components with Eigen values greater than one could explain 89 percent of the total variation. The first component, verified 24.4 percent of the total variation. Cluster analysis of cultivars in Euclidean distance of 26.68, was categorized into two main groups. The cultivars "Avadis" and "Norooz3" in the first group were distinguished from the rest of the cultivars with the lowest height. The "Fariba"; "Ashraf" and "Andiea" cultivars were placed in the group and most abundant cultivars. Discussion Based on the results, leaf size, plant height, number of branches and number of flowers in plant traits were most important in recognizing the diversity of cultivars Chrysanthemum. By using some cultivars belonging to the first cluster with less height and cultivars in the second cluster with more leaves and flowers as a parent, a new cycle of Chrysanthemum breeding program can be initiated.

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Author = Ehteshamnia, Abdollah

The effect of foliar application of glutamic acid, aspartic acid, and nicotinic acid on the growth, yield, and morpho-physiological and biochemical characteristics of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.)

Abstract

Investigating the effect of natural compounds before and post-harvest on the physicochemical characteristics of apple (Malus domestica cv. Golden Delicious) fruit

Abstract

The effect of salinity stress and the application of silver nanoparticles on flowering and some physico-biochemical characteristics of French parsley (Tagetes patula L.)

Abstract

Investigating the effects of post-harvest application of nanocellulose/carvacrol composite coating on the physico-biochemical characteristics of physalis fruit

Abstract

Pre-harvest application of chitosan and nano-chitosan on enzymatic activities, quality and sensory indicators of fresh pistachios (Pistacia vera L. cv 'Ahmad Aghaei')

Abstract

Evaluation of Some Chrysanthemum Cultivars Using Morphological Traits in Beiran-Shahr, Lorestan Province

Abstract