Plant Productions

Research Paper - Plant Breeding

Dissection of genotype × environment interaction and yield stability analysis in durum wheat using SHMM and GGE biplot models

Tohid Najafi Mirak; Manoochehr Dastfal; Manoochehr Sayyahfar; Hossein Farzadi; Shahryar Sasani; Hassan Zali

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 161-178

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46214.2144

Abstract

IntroductionDurum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is an important crop for the human diet grown in many parts of the world predominantly for semolina and resulting pasta production. ... Read More IntroductionDurum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum) is an important crop for the human diet grown in many parts of the world predominantly for semolina and resulting pasta production. The presence of genotype × environment interaction (GEI) is a challenge for breeders in evaluating genotypes in multilocational trials. The use of statistical models such as GGE biplot assist breeders in quantifying and understanding the patterns of GEI and in evaluating the performance of genotypes in various environmental conditions. This allows breeders to select stable and adaptable genotypes for a range of environments. One of the important goals of durum wheat breeding programs is to produce high-yielding cultivars that have suitable characteristics for cultivation in different regions of the country. Therefore, the aim of this research was to select promising durum wheat lines in terms of stability and high grain yield by GGE biplot and SHMM models.Materials and MethodsIn this study, 17 promising lines of durum wheat with three check Hana, Aran, Mehregan in five research centers of Kermanshah, Khorramabad, Karaj, Dezful and Fars (Darab) in the form of randomized complete blocks design in 3 replications and in two cropping seasons (2020-2022) were cultivated and compared. The studied genotypes were planted in six lines along 6 m with a line distance of 15 cm. Seed rate was determined by 450 seeds per square meter considering the thousand kernel weight for each genotype. Seeds were sown using an experimental plot planter (Wintersteiger, Ried, Austria). The fertilizer composition was 32 kg ha-1 nitrogen (twice), and di-ammonium phosphate and potassium sulfate were 100 and 50 kg ha-1, respectively (before planting). After the removal of perimeter plants, all experimental plots were harvested with an experimental grain harvester (Wintersteiger, Ried, Austria).Results and DiscussionThe results of the combined variance analysis of grain yield showed that the differences between the test environments, genotypes and genotype x environment interaction effect are significant at the 1% level. The highest grain yield in the first year was observed in Kermanshah station (Ker1) (8441 kg ha-1) and the lowest seed yield in Khorramabad in the first year (Kho1) (5648 kg ha-1) and Karaj in the second year (Kar2) (5961 kg ha-1). GGE biplot analysis determined two durum wheat environmental groups. The first environmental group contained of Kho1, Dar1, Kar1, Kar2 and Dar2 environments, where the recommended genotypes 18, 17, 2 and 19 produced the highest yields. The second environmental group comprised of Kho2, Dez1, Ker2, Dez2 and Ker1 environments, where genotypes 12, 9 and 8 were the best adapted genotypes. Biplot results showed that genotypes 10, 5, 13, 18 and 16 were more stable than other genotypes, respectively. Comparison of the examined genotypes with the ideal genotype showed that genotypes 18 and 10 are the closest genotypes to the ideal genotype, which in addition to high grain yield, had high yield stability. Dar2 was the closest environment to the ideal environment. The results showed that the classification of environments based on the SHMM model was completely consistent with the GGE biplot model. Based on environmental vector of the biplot, Dar2 and Ker1 had high discriminating ability for the genotypes. Also, Dezful in the first and second year (Dez1 and Dez2), Karaj in the second year (Kar2) and Kermanshah in the second year (Ker2) showed low discriminating ability for genotypes. The environments that were placed in the same group were close to each other in terms of genotype x environment interaction values. Based on the SHMM model, the environments with the least cross over effects are placed in one group. Accordingly, the placement of Kermanshah and Dezful in the same group indicates the relative similarity of these places. Also, these results were confirmed by the GGE biplot model. ConclusionAs a conclusion, GGE biplot identified G10 (DW-99-10) and G18 (DW-99-18) as the superior durum wheat genotypes which that can be released as new commercial cultivars for the temperate and warm regions of Iran.

Research Paper - Agroecology

The impact of conventional, sustainable, and organic farming systems on grain yield and energy use efficiency in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), mung bean (Vigna radiate L.) and maize (Zea mays L.)

Aram Gorooei; Amir Aaynehband; Afraseyab Rahnama

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 179-193

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2020.32356.1871

Abstract

Background and objectiveConsidering the limited natural resources and the negative effects of inappropriate use of these resources on both human health and environment, addressing the ... Read More Background and objectiveConsidering the limited natural resources and the negative effects of inappropriate use of these resources on both human health and environment, addressing the patterns of energy consumption remains vital (Baran and Gokdogan, 2017; Ozkan et al, 2004). Materials and methodsThis study was conducted at the research farm of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz in the summer of 2018. Experimental design was split-plot based on randomized complete block design with three replications. Main plots consisted of agriculture production systems; intensive (all inputs e.g., fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides were chemical), sustainable (a combination of organic and intensive methods were used to manage this farming system), and organic (in this farming system, all inputs were organic and biological, no chemical fertilizers were applied. control of weeds was done mechanically). Sub plots consisted of three crops; corn (cereal), mung bean (legume) and sesame (oil seed). In this study, energy efficiency indices were calculated by measuring the energy equivalent of all inputs and outputs. ResultsResults showed that the highest and lowest grain yields for corn, mung bean and sesame were obtained in the intensive and organic systems, respectively. The lowest (1.18) and highest (3.69) energy use efficiencies were belonged to intensive sesame and organic corn, respectively. The highest amount of energy consumed (34396 MJha-1) was observed in intensive corn and the lowest with the value of 8247 MJ ha-1 was belonged to the organic mung bean. Additionally, intensive corn presented the highest (94045 MJ) output energy. On the other hand, organic mung bean showed the lowest value of the output energy (15279 MJ). Intensive corn and organic sesame had the highest and lowest amounts of net energy indices with the values of 59649 and 7032, respectively. Although corn yield in the organic system was nearly 30 percent lower than in the intensive system, energy consumption for organic corn was 50 percent lower than for intensive cornConclusionTo design an appropriate agroecosystem, it is necessary to consider a collection of agroecological indices e.g., energy use efficiency, net energy, energy utilization index, special energy, as well as crop production history and agricultural culture (human resource productivity index, agrochemical energy, greenhouse gas emission) to find a balance between both factors based on each region.

Research Paper - Horticulture

Effect of UV-B radiation on physiological and phytochemical indices related to cold tolerance in Yaghooti grapes (Vitis vinifera L.)

Ahmad Orooji; Rouhollah Karimi; Alireza Shayganfar

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 195-212

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46261.2146

Abstract

IntroductionEnvironmental stresses, especially damage caused by frost, often have a significant effect on plant growth and development. In order to adapt to the cold, plants show specific ... Read More IntroductionEnvironmental stresses, especially damage caused by frost, often have a significant effect on plant growth and development. In order to adapt to the cold, plants show specific physiological and biochemical responses that lead to an increase in their duirability and survival during exposure to low temperature. The use of ultraviolet (UV) rays to increase cold tolerance and physiological and biochemical changes related to it has been less researched. This is while UV-B is not necessarily a source of stress, but moderate, non-harmful levels of UV-B act as an environmental signal in higher plants and able to induce several key reactions in order to adapt to cold in the plant. Materials and MethodsThis experiment was carried out on rooted seedlings of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Yaghooti in a factorially (3×3) based on a completely randomized design with three replications in the research greenhouse of Malayer University in the spring and summer of 2022. In the 15-leaf stage, the vines (except for the control) were exposed to two doses of UV-B radiation in the following order: first dose (control): natural light, second dose (moderate): 5.98 kJ m-2 d-1 ( equal to 0.55 W/m2 for 3 hours) and the third dose (severe): 9.66 kJ m-2 d-1 (equal to 0.55 W/m2 for 4.5 hours) was applied to the plants under the natural photoperiod in the greenhouse in June. After applying UV-B radiation treatments, one group of pots was kept in the greenhouse (temperature 24±1 ºC) and another group of pots (control vines and treated with UV-B rays to apply cold stress to the cooling chamber) transferred and placed under the temperature of 4ºC and -4ºC (for 6 hours at each temperature).Results and DiscussionAccording to the results, the highest and lowest total chlorophyll content was related to the treatment without irradiation and temperature of 24°C and the treatment of severe irradiation and temperature of -4°C, respectively. The highest and lowest carotenoid content was related to the severe UV-B irradiation treatment and 24°C temperature and the treatment without irradiation and 24°C temperature, respectively. The relative water content was the highest in the treatments without radiation and temperature of 24°C, and the lowest in the treatment of moderate irradiation and temperature of -4°C. The highest and lowest percentages of electrolyte leakage were observed in treatments without irradiation and temperature of -4°C and treatment without irradiation and temperature of 24°C, respectively. The content of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide was the highest in the vines under severe UV-B irradiation along with (-4°C) and was the lowest in treatment without irradiation along with 24°C. The highest content of soluble sugar and soluble protein was observed in plants treated with severe irradiation along with (-4°C), and the lowest amount of these compounds was observed in the treatment without UV-B irradiation along with (24°C). The content of proline was the highest in the treatments with severe irradiation along with (4°C), and the lowest in the treatment without radiation and temperature of 24°C. The highest and lowest activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzyme was observed in the treatments of sever irradiation along with (4°C) and moderate irradiation along with (-4°C), respectively. The activities of guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) and catalase enzymes (CAT) were the highest in plants under moderate irradiation along with (4°C), and the lowest activity of these enzymes observed under non-irradiation condition along with (-4°C). The highest and lowest total phenol and flavonoid contents were related to those vines that were treated with sever irradiation along with (4°C) and without UV-B irradiation along with 24°C, respectively.ConclusionTotally, it can be concluded that moderate radiation treatment through the stimulation of antioxidant systems, the accumulation of UV-B absorbing compounds and acclimate osmolytes in the plant led to an increase in their tolerance to chilling temperatures (+4°C), but there was no effect on frost tolerance (-4°C). However, sever UV-B irradiation treatment both at normal and low temperatures caused damage to cell membranes and leaf necrosis. Based on the results of application of moderate dose of UV-B rays, it can be used as an elicitor to improve plant antioxidant system and cell membrane stability under chilling temperature (4°C).

Research Paper - Biotic and Abiotic Stress

Effects of salinity stress on some morpho-physiological traits and grain yield of quinoa cultivars under greenhouse conditions

Mojtaba Kaboodkhani; Hadi Salek Mearaji; Keyvan Aghaei; Afshin Tavakoli

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 213-227

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46220.2145

Abstract

IntroductionSince plants cannot move, they face many environmental stresses. Salinity is a major threat to modern agriculture, causing inhibition and impairment of crop growth and development. ... Read More IntroductionSince plants cannot move, they face many environmental stresses. Salinity is a major threat to modern agriculture, causing inhibition and impairment of crop growth and development. Salinity stress affects all vital plant processes such as photosynthesis, protein and metabolism of fat in the plant, causing changes in morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular functions of the plant, which ultimately decreases plant yield. Due to high nutritional value and high resistance to abiotic stresses such as salinity and drought, quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa willd.) has been proposed to ensure food security in the world. Quinoa genotypes have different morphological and physiological mechanisms in terms of germination, growth and grain yield under salinity stress. Considering the differences in salinity resistance in different quinoa cultivars, this study was carried out for investigating the physiological responses and seed yield of three quinoa cultivars with different origins under salinity stress. Materials and MethodsThis experiment carried out as random complete block design with three replications in the greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture of Zanjan University during the year 2019. The experimental treatments included three salinity levels of 0, 15 and 30 dS m-1 and three quinoa varieties (Giza1, Titicaca and Q26) with different origins. First, soil with a ratio of 50% sieved farm soil, 30% sand and 20% rotted manure was added inside the 1 kg pots. Inside each pot, 10 seeds were planted then irrigated with desired concentrations of salinity. The temperature of the greenhouse during the day was 27±2 and at night 19±2 ˚C, and the relative humidity was 65-75%. After the seedlings were fully established, four plants were kept in each pot and the rest were removed. The volume of irrigation water was 400 cc for each pot with the desired concentration of salinity. In the following, the desired traits were measured based on the mentioned protocols in specific stages. After measuring the desired traits, variance analysis of the data was done with SAS software version 9.1, comparison of average data was done using Duncan's multiple range test (P>0.05). Results and DiscussionSalinity stress had a significant effect on all the traits studied except the potassium concentration of the root. Salinity reduced the plant height, leaf area, greenness index, grain yield, dry weight shoot and root, but salinity caused increase in the amount of sodium in the root, stem and leaves. The highest and lowest grain yields, with 0.87 and 0.56 g plant-1 were observed in the control and 30 dS m-1 salinity treatments, respectively. The Titicaca cultivar with 25.7 cm, had the lowest plant height. The highest shoot dry weight, stem sodium concentration, Na+/K+ ratio in root and Na+/K+ ratio in stem were observed in the Giza 1 cultivar. The Q26 cultivar had highest height of plant (33.8 cm), leaf area (3865.8 cm2plant-1), root sodium (0.30 mg.g-1 dry weight) and potassium (0.16 mg.g-1 dry weight) concentration, while it had the lowest Na+/K+ ratio in leaf with 0.67 mg.g-1 dry weight. Traits such as leaf potassium concentration and grain yield were similar among the studied cultivars. Also, cultivar Q26 had the lowest Na+/K+ ratio in the leaves with 0.67 mg.g-1 dry weight. The leaf greenness index in the control and salinity of 15 dS.m-1 was the same among all studied cultivars, but in the salinity of 30 dS.m-1, the Titicaca cultivar had the lowest amount. Among the studied cultivars, Giza 1 cultivar had the lowest root dry weight, while it had the highest Na+/K+ ratio in root and stem (8.27 and 3.6 mg.g-1 dry weight, respectively) among all salinity treatments. The Titicaca cultivar had the highest stem potassium concentration of all salinity levels in studied cultivars. Conclusions The results obtained from this research showed that high salinity concentrations decreased the grain yield of quinoa. In general, the results showed that the cultivars examined in this research (Giza1, Titicaca and Q26) were different from each other in terms of traits related to salinity resistance. The results showed that the origin of cultivars probably plays a role in the resistance to salinity. Also, despite the difference in the concentration of elements potassium, sodium and Na+/K+ ratio in the stem, root and leaf organs, and no significant difference was observed in terms of grain yield among the studied cultivars. Therefore, it is suggested to consider their origin in the selection of cultivars for future research.

Research Paper - Biotic and Abiotic Stress

The effects of biochar on the growth and some physiological characteristics of Artemisia dracunculus L. under salinity stress

Maehdiyeh Safavi; Maedeh Mohammadzadeh; lamia vojodimehrabani

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 229-244

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47046.2173

Abstract

IntroductionArtemisia dracunculus L. is a perennial fragrant plant which is commonly used as a flavoring vegetable in many countries. The plant is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, ... Read More IntroductionArtemisia dracunculus L. is a perennial fragrant plant which is commonly used as a flavoring vegetable in many countries. The plant is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and health industries. The medicinal value of tarragon is due to the presence of essential oil, phenolics and flavonoids, phenolic acids, coumarins, and alkaloids. In the last decade, due to climatic changes, salinity stress has become one of the most important biological problems, which causes a decrease in plant productivity. Salinity stress, by creating water and ionic imbalance, induces drought stress and increases the concentration of vacuolar sap. Moreover, the ionic toxicity and ionic competition in the cell membranes as a result of salt stress leads to programmed cell death. Therefore, it is important to find solutions to overcome or reduce the effects of salinity stress on plants. Biochar is an organic carbonic compound that can affect the physicochemical structure of the soil. Biochar, by increasing the absorption of nutrients, enhances the cation exchange capacity, and water holding capacity in the soil, improves the soil structure, and increases the plant access to the soil nutrients, and in this way helps to enhance the yield of the plant.Materials and MethodsTo investigate the effects of soil-based biochar (zero, 7, and 14% v) application and, NaCl salinity stress (zero, 75, and 150 mM) on the growth and some physiological traits of Artemisia dracunculus L.; a factorial experiment was conducted based on the completely randomized design with three replications during 2022 in Research Greenhouse of Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University. After adding biochar to the soil mixture, tarragon rhizomes were plantd in the pots. One month later, after complete stablishment of plants, salinity levels were imposed. The plants were maintained in the growing medium for 3 month. Later the plant parts were sampled for the traits measurement. Results and DiscussionPlant height, aerial parts dry weight, chlorophyll a, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, proline, sodium, and potassium content were influenced by the interaction effects of experimental treatments. The treatments without salinity and 75 mM NaCl salinity stress + the application of 14% (v) biochar caused an increase in the plant height and aerial part dry weight of the plant. The highest content of chlorophyll a was obtained in the treatment without salinity stress + both levels of biochar and 75 mM NaCl salinity stress + application of 14% (v) of biochar. The salinity stress )150 mM( in the condition of not using biochar increased the content of hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, and sodium content (35 mg g-1 DW) of the plant. The highest proline content was observed in 150 mM salinity stress with both levels of biochar application and non-application. The highest potassium content was obtained in the treatment without salinity stress with the application of 14% (v) of biochar, which showed a 71% increase compared to the control. The potassium-to-sodium ratio was affected by the main effect of biochar, and the use of 7 and 14% biochar increased the potassium-to-sodium ratio of the plant. The independent effects of salinity stress and biochar affected leaf relative water content, essential oil, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid content. Seven and 14% biochar treatments increased the chlorophyll b content compared to the control. The application of 14% biochar raised the relative water content of leaves (17% increase compared to the control), and carotenoids. By increasing the salinity stress to 150 mM, the leaf-relative water content decreased by 22% compared to the control, and the highest leaf-relative water content was observed in the control. Both 75 and 150 mM salinity stress treatments increased carotenoid content. The top essential oil content was observed in 14% (v) of biochar, which showed a 76% increase compared to the control. 75 mM salinity stress increased the essential oil content as well. 18 components were identified in Artemisia dracunculus essential oil.Estragole (84.3-90.8%) was the dominant component of the essential oil, and the highest content of this compound was obtained in 150 mM NaCl salinity stress + 14% biochar application.The second component in terms of abundance was d-limonene (1.05-3.02%), and the highest content of this compound was observed in the 75 mM salinity stress + 7% (v) of biochar application. ConclusionThe overall results showed that 150 mM salinity stress hurts the growth and physiological characteristics of A. dracunculus, but the use of biochar at the rate of 14% improved the growth and physiological characteristics and even enhanced the dominant components content of essential oil under salt stress..

Research Paper - Olericulture

Improving growth, yield and quality characteristics of greenhouse tomato by using high density fish pond water

Amin Baji; Edris Shabani; Naser Alemzadeh Ansari; Mohamad Albaji

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 245-258

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2023.43551.2098

Abstract

IntroductionIran is positioned as the 11th largest producer of tomatoes globally, yielding in excess of 3 million tons. Therefore, providing enough water to produce this amount of product ... Read More IntroductionIran is positioned as the 11th largest producer of tomatoes globally, yielding in excess of 3 million tons. Therefore, providing enough water to produce this amount of product will be one of the challenges of the near future in the agricultural sector due to the drought problem in Iran. Reuse of fish waste in agriculture is one of the important dimensions of water resources planning. Recycling drainage water from aquaculture farms is one of the necessities because it is rich in substances that can be useful in agriculture. World population and food security is one of the most difficult challenges that most of the countries are facing, because the world population is increasing rapidly and will reach 9.6 billion people by 2050. In this situation, the food supply should increase by 70 to 100%. Considering these challenges, it is necessary to conduct applied research to make maximum use of effluents and wastewaters in the production of greenhouse products. Materials and methodsThe treatments of this experiment included 3 types of nutrient solutions (Resh nutrient solution, fish pond water and modified fish pond water) and 3 promising greenhouse tomato lines (AZ4, AZ5 and V4). The experimental design was factorial arranged in complete block design with 3 replications. At the end of the experiment, the plants were removed from the pot and the roots, leaves and stems were separated from each other. Their fresh and dry weight and the number of leaves were recorded separately for each treatment. To check yield indicators, ripe tomato fruits were harvested during the growth period, counted and weighed with a scale with an accuracy of 0.01 g. The firmness of the fruit tissue was measured by a firmness meter, and the pH and EC of the fruit extract were measured by a pH meter and an EC meter, respectively. The measurement of chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll was done using a spectrophotometer in mature leaves developed according to the method suggested by Arnon (1967).Result and DiscussionThe results of this experiment showed that V4 and AZ4 cultivars had the highest stem and leaf weight compared to AZ5 cultivar. Also, the results showed that the Resh solution and modified pond water had the highest root dry weight (58 and 56 g, respectively) compared to the fish pond water treatment (47 g). The findings of this study showed that the use of Resh nutrient solution and modified pool water compared to the treatment of fish pool water increased the number of leaves of tomato plants by 23.88% and 18.69%, respectively. It seems that irrigation with modified pool water and Resh solution increases the growth and development of the plant due to the increase in the level of nutrients. The highest amount of total chlorophyll was observed in the Resh solution and modified pool water with concentrations of 2.3 and 2.2 mg/g, respectively. The results of Silva et al (2021) showed that in irrigation with fish waste, greater availability of magnesium in plant tissue increases the content of chlorophyll b in leaves and increases plant chloroplast pigments. The highest total yield was observed in cultivar V4 and in the treatments of Resh nutrient solution and modified pool water. The results showed that modified pool water had the highest EC of tomato extract (1.9 dS/m). Also, the results of the interaction effect of cultivar and nutrient solution showed that the highest fruit firmness was observed in Resh solution and fish pond water in V4 cultivar. Also, the lowest fruit firmness was observed fish pond water in AZ5 cultivar. It seems that, in the present study, the reduction of calcium absorption in fish pond water caused the reduction of firmness of tomato fruit (Kaab omeir et al., 2020).ConclusionIt seems that according to the above results, it is possible to use pool water with a high density of fish after modification and changes in the amounts of its nutrients in greenhouse tomato cultivation. Among the tested cultivars, the promising line V4 can be recommended for cultivation in the greenhouse for the use of modified fish pond water.

Research Paper - Olericulture

Evaluation the morphological and phytochemical response of broccoli seedling to the application of sucrose, Bordeaux mixture and potassium silicate under sudden cold stress

Alireza Nickkhoo; Kamran Ghasemi; Vahid Akbarpour

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 259-273

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.44617.2120

Abstract

IntroductionBroccoli is a one of the vegetables that has a very high nutritional value and it is cultivated in many countries all around the world. Due to the intensification of climate ... Read More IntroductionBroccoli is a one of the vegetables that has a very high nutritional value and it is cultivated in many countries all around the world. Due to the intensification of climate change, sudden drops in temperature during the winter in northern countries pose a serious threat to some vegetable species, including broccoli. In this study, an experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of sucrose, potassium silicate, and Bordeaux mixture on increasing the tolerance of broccoli seedlings to sudden cold stress. Materials and MethodsThe experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with eight treatments, three replications, and three samples per each replication. The treatments included: control, sucrose1%, potassium silicate 0.2%, Bordeaux mixture 0.2%, sucrose + potassium silicate, sucrose + Bordeaux mixture, potassium silicate + Bordeaux mixture, and sucrose + potassium silicate + Bordeaux mixture. Results and DiscussionThe effect of the treatments on the growth of broccoli seedlings one week after exposure to low temperature stress, including stem height, leaf number, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight, and root dry weight, was not statistically significant. The highest concentration of chlorophyll b (1.647 mg/g fresh weight) was obtained in the Bordeaux mixture treatment which along with the combined treatment of sucrose + potassium silicate + Bordeaux mixture were the only treatments that showed a significant superiority compared to the control. The highest transpiration rate among the tested treatments was observed in the sucrose + Bordeaux mixture treatment, which did not show a significant difference compared to the three-component treatment of sucrose + potassium silicate+ Bordeaux mixture, but showed a significant superiority compared to the other treatments. The foliar application of Bordeaux mixture caused a higher stomatal conductance compared to the control after a temperature stress of -2 °C, but the other treatments did not show a significant difference compared to the control. In terms of the non-photochemical quenching (Y(NPQ)), the highest Y(NPQ), was observed in the control and potassium silicate treatments, which was significantly higher than all other treatments. Meanwhile, the lowest level of this index was observed in the potassium silicate+ Bordeaux mixture treatment, which did not show a significant difference compared to the sucrose + potassium silicate, sucrose + potassium, and silicate+ Bordeaux mixture treatments. The highest level of antioxidant activity was observed only in the sucrose treatment and the sucrose + potassium silicate and Bordeaux mixture treatments, which were superior to all other treatments without any significant difference among them. In terms of total phenolic content, only the sucrose+ Bordeaux mixture treatment showed a significant superiority compared to the control, and the other treatments did not show a significant difference from the control. In the trait of soluble sugar content, the sole potassium silicate and the three-component treatments were better than the control, and the other treatments did not show a significant difference compared to the control. The highest ion leakage was observed in the sucrose + Bordeaux mixture treatment, which was higher than the control and all other treatments. The lowest ion leakage was also observed in the sucrose + potassium silicate and potassium silicate+ Bordeaux mixture treatments, although the difference between them and the control and potassium silicate-only treatments was not significant. The highest level of proline was observed in the sucrose+potassium silicate treatment, which was significantly superior to all other treatments. ConclusionSucrose+potassium silicate treatment improved the defense system of the plant against sudden cold stress by increasing the amount of carotenoid and proline, and as a result of these activities, the antioxidant of the whole plant and higher chlorophyll also increased. Also, this treatment showed low ion leakage and low non-photochemical quenching, which can show higher sudden cold tolerance. Another favorable treatment was potassium silicate + bordeaux mixture which produced a higher assimilation rate, although this photosynthetic production did not affect the biomass, but since the ion leakage was low and caused the lowest Y(NPQ), it can be said that the plant in this treatment receive lower stress. Overall, considering all the evaluated traits, the top-performing treatment in this experiment was the potassium silicate+ Bordeaux mixture treatment, followed by the sucrose + potassium silicate treatment..

Research Paper - Ornamental Plants

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..

Research Paper - Ornamental Plants

Effect of paclobutrazol on the growth characteristics of two turfgrasses (Festuca aranudinaceae Scherb.) and (Poa pratensis L.)

Mostafa Fazeli; Mansour Matloobi; Faribourz Zare Nahandi

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 293-308

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.44964.2124

Abstract

IntroductionPaclobutrazol is a growth regulator used to control growth and reduce the frequency of mowing in all types of turfgrass plants. This material also affects the height and ... Read More IntroductionPaclobutrazol is a growth regulator used to control growth and reduce the frequency of mowing in all types of turfgrass plants. This material also affects the height and quality of different types of turfgrass. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to compare the growth behavior of two types of turfgrass subjected to paclobutrazol treatment and also to evaluate the possibility of using paclobutrazol to reduce the growth of turfgrass in areas with the same climate of Tabriz. Materials and MethodsTo determine the effect of paclobutrazol on height, and visual properties of turfgrass such as density, clippings fresh weight, leaf chlorophyll index, length and width of leaf blade, two grass plants Poa pratensis and Festuca arundinacea were treated with paclobutrazol in different concentrations. Grass plants were tested with concentrations of zero (control), 15, 30 and 45 mg/L-1 paclotrazol as foliar spray in 4 replicates of each treatment. This research was carried out in as a split plot experiment in the form of a randomized complete block design, so that the type of grass as the main factor in 2 levels and paclobutrazol as a secondary factor were considered in all the evaluated traits in both plant species.Results and DiscussionThe results of this research showed that paclobutrazol significantly affects the height of P. pratensis and F. aranudinaceae turfgrass plants. This effect was in the form of a significant reduction in the height of plants and controlling their growth. By increasing the concentration of paclobutrazol from zero to 45 mg/L, the height of the plants decreased. In both mentioned types of turfgrass, the most effective concentration was 45 mg/L. By increasing the concentration of paclobutrazol, the density of P. pratensis and F. aranudinaceae turfgrass plants has increased. The increase in density after paclobutrazol treatment was more evident in F. aranudinaceae. In general, the fescue turfgrass plant has stronger foliage, deep and strong roots, and lower density. The only exception was the increase in the chlorophyll index of fescue leaves (10 days after treatment) and P. pratensis (20 days after treatment) and in both of them under the concentration of 30 mg/L of paclobutrazol. Following paclobutrazol treatment and increasing its concentration, the length and width of the leaf blade as well as the clippings fresh weight of turfgrass plants were decreased. The reduction in the length and width of the leaf blade was similar in both plants, and the most effective concentration of paclobutrazol was 30 mg/L. However, the optimal effect of paclobutrazol was observed up to 30 days after the treatment. In the fourth measurement (40 days after the treatment), the effect of paclobutrazol decreased and there was no significant difference in the length and width of the leaves of the treated plants and the control plants. ConclusionIn general, with the treatment of different concentrations of paclobutrazol, the number of aerial branches produced in F. aranudinaceae was more than that of P. pratensis. Since paclobutrazol is a growth inhibitor and by preventing the synthesis of gibberellin hormone, it prevents plants from elongation, this substance can be used to control the growth of turfgrass plants. This growth control reduces the number of mowing times, reduces fertilizer consumption, increases the efficiency of water use, and ultimately saves the cost of maintaining turfgrass plants. Since paclobutrazol accumulates in the roots and eventually causes the formation of new branches, it can be concluded that the effect of paclobutrazol on the density of F. aranudinaceae is greater than that of P. pratensis..

Research Paper - Tropical and Subtropical Fruits

Foliar application of silica and potassium sulphate on some characteristics of pomegranate fruit cv. ‘Malase-Saveh’

Farzad Abdollahi; Abdolkarim Zarei; Javad Erfani-Moghadam; Mahmood Rostaminia

Volume 47, Issue 2 , August 2024, Pages 309-321

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46385.2150

Abstract

IntroductionPomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a fruit-bearing species with a long history of cultivation in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Pomegranate production ... Read More IntroductionPomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is a fruit-bearing species with a long history of cultivation in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Pomegranate production in Iran, as the main pomegranate producer in the world, is faced with different challenges. Fruit cracking is one of the serious disorders in pomegranate that cause significant reduction in the quality of fruit and subsequent economic damages to the pomegranate producers annually. Fruit cracking can be controlled to some extent by appropriate orchard management. Proper orchard fertilization is among the influential cases that can lead to the improvement in the physiological state of trees in favor of reducing the fruit cracking. Materials and methods In this study, the effects of silicon and potassium sulfate spraying were investigated on the fruit cracking and some quantitative and qualitative characteristics of pomegranate fruit. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the combined effects of four levels of silica (0, 100, 300, and 500 ppm) and three levels of potassium sulfate (0, 0.75%, and 1.5%) spraying on the fruit of pomegranate cv. ‘Malase-Saveh’, one of the most important pomegranate varieties of Iran. The treatments were applied three times during the growing season. The experiment was arranged in a factorial experiment based on the completely randomized block design in three replicates. Data analysis was performed using SAS statistical software and the means were compared using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% level of significance. Results and DiscussionThe results indicated that most of the qualitative and quantitative traits were influenced by foliar spraying of these substances. Also, the results indicated that foliar application of silica, potassium sulfate, and their interaction significantly affected the fruit cracking. According to the results, the lowest fruit cracking (2.64%) was obtained by spraying 500 ppm silica and 0.75% potassium sulfate, while the highest fruit cracking (27.87%) was recorded from control plants. The highest fruit weight (204 g) was recorded in the treatment of 1.5% potassium sulfate and the lowest fruit weight (144 g) was recorded from untreated plants. Most of the treatments had a positive effect on fruit and aril weight and increased this character compared to the control. Spraying with 500 ppm silica and 1.5% potassium sulfate resulted in the highest (39.69 g) 100 arils weight, while control plants had the lowest (29.14) 100 arils weight. Silica and potassium sulfate treatment also improve the total soluble solid and titratable acidity in the fruit juice of pomegranate. ConclusionThe data obtained from this study could provide valuable insights into the effects of proper fertilization in reducing one of the main pomegranate disorders. Overall, the results indicated that combined spraying of silica (500 ppm) with potassium sulfate (1.5%) is more effective than their individual use and results in the higher fruit yield and quality, as well as a lower cracking disorder. These findings suggest that there are synergistic effects between these compounds. According to the results of this investigation simultaneous application of silica and potassium is suggested as a practical strategy in orchard management practices that could be beneficial for improving qualitative and quantitative attributes of pomegranate fruit.

The Most Suitable Method and Time of Ber Tree (Ziziphus spina-christi L.) Budding in Ahvaz

Aziz Torahi; Majid Alihori

Volume 34, Issue 2 , February 2012, , Pages 81-86

Abstract

Ber (Ziziphus spina-christi L.) is one of the tropical and subtropical fruit trees that grow in different countries in Europe, America, Africa, Australia, and Asia including Iran. Ber ... Read More

Effects of harvest time and packing method on fruit quality and Cold-Storage duration of "Gorban Maragheh" apricot cultivar

M. Zarrinbal; A. Dabbagh Mohammadinasab; R. Rasouli Pirouzian

Volume 36, Issue 1 , June 2013, , Pages 1-11

Abstract

Apricot because of its high respiration rate and rapid ripening process has short storage life and so should be marketed immediately after harvest. Harvesting of apricot in suitable ... Read More

Induction of Transgenic Hairy Roots in Medicinal Plant Poppy (Papaver Somniferum L.) by Agrobacterium Rhizogenes-Mediated Transformation

A Jalilian; A A; F N; S.Z H

Volume 39, Issue 4 , March 2017, , Pages 1-14

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2017.12057

Abstract

Background and Objectives Opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum L.) is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. Since the potential of medicinal components production in medicinal ... Read More Background and Objectives Opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum L.) is one of the oldest known medicinal plants. Since the potential of medicinal components production in medicinal plants is very limited in natural conditions, plant tissue culture, as a new technology, has an important role in industrial production of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants. Among different tissue culture systems, hairy root is very stable in hormone-free culture conditions and these roots stably produce secondary metabolites over a long period due to their inherent genetic and biochemical stability. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of some different parameters on optimization of hairy production in P. somniferum. Materials and methods In the present research, for the optimization of hairy root in papaver, a factorial experiment was conducted based on a completely randomized design with 4 replications. The factors included different Agrobacterium rhizogenes strains (ATCC15834, A4 and GMI9534), medium (MS and ½ MS medium), two temperatures (17 and 25 °C) at co-cultivation period, and two different explants (excised shoot and hypocotyl). Different traits were evaluated including percentage of induced hairy roots, number of lateral branches/1cm, number of hairy root per explants and days after inoculation (DAI). Results Hairy roots were induced at the wound site of explants after weeks of culture. Analysis of the results showed that strain ATCC15834, ½ MS medium, temperature 25 °C and excised shoot explant were the best treatment combination for hairy roots induction in the poppy plant. Transformed hairy roots were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using rolB gene specific primers. Discussion All of the A. rhizogenes strains led to hairy root induction, but there were no hairy roots formed from control explants. Differences in virulence, morphology and growth rate can be partially explained by the variety of plasmids harbored by the A. rhizogenesis strains. In the present study, excised shoot explants were highly and significantly susceptible to infection by each strain of A. rhizogenes and hypocotyl explants showed low rate of hairy root induction.

Effect of Different Ploidy Levels on Pollen Grain Fertility, Seed Germination and Seedling Transplanting Ability of Eggplant

H. Kaveh; H. Neamati

Volume 41, Issue 2 , September 2018, , Pages 1-12

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2018.18116.1350

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an economically important crop with a wide range of fruit shapes and colors. Breeding programs in eggplant focus ... Read More Abstract Background and Objectives Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an economically important crop with a wide range of fruit shapes and colors. Breeding programs in eggplant focus mainly on fruit quality. Production of commercial triploid cultivars and emission of seeds in fruits may increase acceptability by consumer and increase fruit quality. Induced tetraploidy and cross between di and tetraploid parental line is a conventional method used in different fruits and vegetables like watermelon. The current study aim to find how may induced tetraploidy affect pollen grain quality, its fertility, seed and transplant vigor in different eggplant cultivars. Materials and Methods Aiming to investigate autotetraploidy in four qultivars of Solanum melongena L., Keshtzar, Yalda, Chahboland and Passargad on fertility, number of days till fruit-set, germination rate and percentage and successful transplanting percentage, a survey was done in a completely randomized design. Tetraploid plants were derived from seed maceration/shoot tip treatment (0.5, 1 and 2 percent of colchicine). To ensure ploidy level, chromosome counting of root tips and flow-cytometry was done during the experiment. To quantify germination percentage and rate, 15 seeds of each cultivar in each ploidy level were placed in petri-dishes in three replications. The seeds of each ploidy form were sown in seedling trays and after seedling period, plugs were transplanted in field for evaluation of characteristics in different ploidy levels. Growth and development rate of plant in seedling stage observed since seeds were cultivated. As soon as hypocotyl appeared on the surface, they were counted. Then seedling emergence and rate were calculated. To test viability of pollen grains, they were stained using acetocarmen. In order to find best parental lines, 18 plants from each cultivar and in each ploidy level were cultivated in the greenhouse condition in three replications. Then all plants were crossed competley (direct and reciprocal). Di and tetraploid plants were tested to find out which one would be better as which parent. Results Number of days till fruit-set, characteristics of seed and seedling and growth rate in seedling stage were significantly (P≤5%) influenced by changes on levels of poloidy. Pollen grain staining with acetocarmine for evaluation of fertility percentage in pollen grains showed that with an increase in ploidy level, fertility may significantly increase (P≤5%). In an effort to triploid plant production, none of the crosses between di and tetraploid plant could bear fruit. Discussion With the overall results, despite slower growth, can be tetraploid plant, due to improved germination and seedling emergence, survival and reproductive capabilities, higher transplanting success in this category of plants, induced increase in the number of chromosomal bundles can be considered as a good way to create genetic variation and prepare parental lines with desirable traits for use in the breeding programs.

The Effect of Planting Date on Phonological Stages and Quantity Traits of Four Winter Rapeseed Cultivars in Yasouj

M.H F; A Y; M M; H B; H F

Volume 35, Issue 2 , September 2012, , Pages 99-113

Abstract

In order to study the effect of planting date on phonological stages and quantity traits of four cultivars of winter rapeseed, an experiment was carried out in 2008-2009 at the research ... Read More

Research Paper - Agronomy

Evaluation of Wheat and Rapeseed Yield Gap Using Boundary Line Analysis (BLA) in Khoramshahr

hamid matourian; aydin khodaei joghan; Mohammad Reza Moradi Telavat; SeyedAtaollah Siadat; Benjamin Torabi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 02 December 2023

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2023.43754.2101

Abstract

IntroductionFood security is one of the most important challenges facing humankind. Therefore improving crop yields are essential to meet the increasing pressure of global food demands. ... Read More IntroductionFood security is one of the most important challenges facing humankind. Therefore improving crop yields are essential to meet the increasing pressure of global food demands. The loss of high-quality lands, increasing fertilizer use, and its effect on the environment indicate that we need to develop new strategies to increase grain yields with less impact on the environment. One strategy that could help address this concern is by narrowing the yield gaps using improved management. Therefore, the present study was conducted in khoramshahr region for recognition of best management practices, percentage of the affected fields, estimation of wheat and rapeseed yield potential and gaps using boundary line analysis.Materials and MethodsTo quantify the production and estimation of wheat and rapeseed yield gap in Khoramshahr, Farm management information of 60 wheat fields and 57 rapeseed fields in the years 2018-2019 were collected. This information was collected through continuous farm monitoring during the growing season as along with face to face interviews with the farmers. Farms were selected by consulting with agricultural service centers expert in Khoramshahr districts. Based on the available information at the service centers, only farms, which is different in terms of acreage, cultural practices and harvesting operations were selected. In this study, by plotting the distribution of the yield obtained in each field as the dependent variable against the independent variables (crop management activities), using SAS software and an appropriate function was fitted on the upper edge of the data distribution.Results and Discussion.Using this boundary line analysis method, the average yield, attainable yield and yield gap of wheat were obtained as 3740, 5455 and 1715 kg per hectare respectively. The yield gap percentage in wheat was 31.5% and rapeseed was 48%, which indicates the high effectiveness of wheat and rapeseed in relation to the use of appropriate management methods. The analysis of the investigated data in wheat fields showed that in order to achieve the achievable yield, 258 kg per hectare of seeds, the use of Mehrgan variety, the planting date until October 24, the amount of 280 kg per hectare of nitrogen fertilizer, the consumption of at least 100 Phosphorus fertilizer per hectare was at least 6 kg with irrigation and consumption of at least 70 kg of potassium fertilizer. Also, according to the frontier line analysis, the average yield of rapeseed farmers is 1663 kg, they can achieve a yield of 3197 kg per hectare by improving crop management, and for this purpose, the following measures should be taken into account: 1) consuming a maximum of seven kilograms of seeds per hectare 2) Planting date up to 17 November 3) Use of at least 300 kg of nitrogen fertilizer 4) At least 42 kg of phosphorus fertilizer 5) Use of Hyola 50 variety.ConclusionIn this study by examining several important management factors in growing wheat and rapeseed, optimal requirements of each factor to achieve the highest yield was determined by boundary analysis. In addition, the percentage of farms that had poor management as well as wheat and rapeseed yield potential and gaps in Khoramshahr. Yield responses to management practices were evaluated and studied by means of borderline analysis. Best management practices could be devised using study findings to realize the highest yield potential.

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Research Paper - Modeling

Simulating response of lentil cultivars to sowing date and initial soil moisture in Lorestan province

Mojtaba Koohro; Sajjad Rahimi-Moghaddam; khosro Azizi; Saeid Heidari; Seyed Reza Amiri

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 17 April 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.45041.2127

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Lentil is recognized as one of important legumes due to its favourable characteristics. The lintile production, like to other crops has been influenced by three ... Read More Abstract Introduction Lentil is recognized as one of important legumes due to its favourable characteristics. The lintile production, like to other crops has been influenced by three factors: management, genetics, and environment. Improving crop production can be achieved by optimizing these factors. Thus, paying attention to the above-mentioned factors can reduce the severe climatic effects on crop production. Among the above-mentioned factors, management strategies e.g., optimal sowing date and using the optimal cultivar are considered to improve crop production. Initial soil moisture, which can affect crop germination, establishment and ultimately growth and yield, is another important strategy. Accordingly, the current research was conducted in order to simulate the effects of cultivar, sowing date, and initial soil moisture on lentil grian yield in different locations of Lorestan province. Materials and Methods The study locations were Aligudarz, Nurabad, KhorramAbad, and Kuhdasht. Simple Simulation Models-iCrop2 (SSM-iCrop2) was used to simulate the lentil growth and development. The data required to run model included climatic, soil, management, and crop data. Daily long-term climatic data including maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, and radiation were collected from Iran Meteorological Organization The crop data e.g., the specific genetic coefficients of each cultivar were obtained form Amiri and Deihimfard (2018). The study treatments consisted of four sowing dates (21 January, 12 February, 4 March, and 30 April), two cultivars (early-maturity and late-maturity) and four initial soil moisture (32, 36, 42, and 58 mm). The model was run for 41 years (1980-2020). Initial soil water contents and sowing dates were obtained from a preliminary simulation experiment. Results and Discussion Averaged across all treatments, the highest grain yield was obtained at KhorramAbad (388 kg ha-1) due to higher rainfall during the growing season. In addition, the grain yield difference among the sowing dates ranged from kg ha-1 on 30 April to 364 kg ha-1 on 21 January. The reason for the higher grain yield on 21 January sowing date was the higher cumulative rainfall season (149.3 mm vs. 99.2 mm) and the lower mean temperature (22.9 °C vs. 23.9 °C) during the growing season compared to other sowing dates. Across locations, sowing dates, and cultivars, the highest grain yield (263 kg ha-1) was simulated under initial soil moisture of 58 mm. Also, on average across sowing dates, initial soil moisture contents, and locations, the early-maturity cultivar simulated more grain yield than late-maturity cultivar (405 kg ha-1 vs. 63 kg ha-1) due to the avoidance of drought stress at the end of the growing season. Considering different interactions, on average across locations, the highest grain yield was simulated by 704 kg ha-1 in the combination of early-maturity cultivar, early sowing date (21 January), and initial soil moisture of 58 mm. Conclusion In general, the results indicated that the lentil grain yield varied among the various study treatments (sowing date, cultivar, and initial soil moisture) as well as different locations of Lorestan province. Lentil growers can increase the lentil production in Lorestan province and study locations by using the interaction of early planting date (21 January)  early-maturity cultivar (Kimia)  higher initial soil moisture (58 mm). It should be noted that the current research was conducted under water-limited condition and it is suggested that researchers focus on other limitimg and reducing factors in the future studies.

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Research Paper - Agronomy

Study of photosynthetic pigments, seed yield, and oil compositions of camelina (Camelina sativa L.) under the influence of urea foliar application and irrigation regimes in Tehran

Kimia Momeni-Shijani; Seyed Ali Mohammad Modarres-Sanavy; Ali Heidarzadeh; amir mohammad abedi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 30 June 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46765.2161

Abstract

Introduction: Oilseeds are rich in fatty acids, hence they are of paramount importance. Fats and oils are recognized as primary sources of energy in human nutrition. Additionally, fat-soluble ... Read More Introduction: Oilseeds are rich in fatty acids, hence they are of paramount importance. Fats and oils are recognized as primary sources of energy in human nutrition. Additionally, fat-soluble vitamins, which play a crucial role in maintaining human health, are supplied through the consumption of oilseeds in the body. Therefore, studying and researching oilseeds and their importance in today's nutrition is crucial. Camelina is an oilseed product belonging to the Brassicaceae family, which can adapt well to various environments and produce suitable oil for biological purposes. Due to its appropriate composition of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid (omega-9), linoleic acid (omega-6), alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), and low levels of saturated fatty acids, it is considered one of the highest quality edible oils. Materials and Methods: This research aimed to investigate the performance and composition of camelina oil under the influence of urea foliar application and irrigation regimes in split plots within a randomized complete block design with three replications during the agricultural year of 2022 at the research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University. In this study, the examined factors included different irrigation regimes at the flowering stage of the plant at four levels defined as the main factor. These levels included optimal irrigation (no stress), mild water deficit stress, moderate water deficit stress, and severe water deficit stress. Irrigation continued until the plant's available moisture in the root zone reached 20, 40, 60, and 80 percent, respectively, and then irrigation continued to the field capacity. The secondary factor included the application of nitrogen fertilizer from urea source as foliar spray at six levels (0% (distilled water spray), 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and no foliar spray (control)). Results and Discussion: Under optimal irrigation conditions, seed yield and oil content showed the highest values, with the optimal irrigation treatment exhibiting the best yield. In mild water deficit stress conditions, seed yield decreased by 12.83% compared to the control (optimal irrigation), while foliar application of urea at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% increased seed yield by 18.23%, 27.95%, 16.30%, and 11.74%, respectively, compared to the control (no foliar spray). In mild water deficit stress conditions, the use of urea fertilizer foliar spray at a concentration of 3% resulted in a greater increase in grain yield and oil content compared to other concentrations. Oil yield decreased by 4.42% and 21.23% in mild and moderate water deficit stress conditions, respectively, compared to the control (optimal irrigation). Additionally, foliar application of urea at concentrations of 1%, 2%, and 3% increased oil yield by 23.85%, 35.37%, and 23.81%, respectively, compared to the control (no foliar spray). Under severe water deficit stress conditions, the treatment with 2% urea fertilizer concentration led to the highest amount of seed oil, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b. Regarding the anthocyanin content, under severe water deficit stress conditions, foliar application of urea fertilizer at a concentration of 1% resulted in a greater increase in anthocyanin content compared to other treatments. Conclusion: In optimal irrigation conditions, grain yield and oil content showed the highest values. In mild water deficit stress conditions, the use of foliar spraying of urea fertilizer with a concentration of 3% led to a greater increase in grain yield and oil content than other concentrations. In severe water deficit stress conditions, urea fertilizer treatment with 2% concentration resulted in the highest amount of oil content and chlorophyll a and b.

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Research Paper - Breeding of Fruit Trees Crops

Effect of rootstock and magnetized water on the morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics of apple sapling (Malus domestica) under salinity stress

Zahra esmaillou; Mohammadreza Asghari; Fariborz Zaare-Nahandi; Ebrahim Sepehr

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 30 June 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46457.2154

Abstract

Salinity poses a significant challenge to plant growth and can lead to adverse physiological and metabolic alterations. The selection of tolerant rootstocks offers a promising solution ... Read More Salinity poses a significant challenge to plant growth and can lead to adverse physiological and metabolic alterations. The selection of tolerant rootstocks offers a promising solution to mitigate this issue. Magnetized water technology has emerged as an innovative approach to alleviate the negative impact of salinity on water quality. In this greenhouse study, we aimed to explore the synergistic effects of rootstock selection and magnetized water treatment under salinity stress conditions on the growth of apple saplings. By examining these combined factors, we seek to understand their potential in enhancing plant resilience to salinity-induced stress. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop sustainable strategies for managing salinity stress in agricultural settings, with implications for improving crop productivity and resilience in saline environments. Materials and Methods The factorial experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with four replications from 2019 to 2020 at the University of Urmia, Iran. The factors examined included two rootstocks (M7 and MM106), three levels of magnetized water (0, 0.1, and 0.2 Tesla), and three levels of salinity stress (0, 40, and 80 mM). To evaluate the investigated factors, leaf thickness, leaf temperature, leaf area, internode length, rootstock diameter, branch growth, greenness index (SPAD), relative water content (RWC), total phenol, antioxidant capacity and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzyme were measured. Statistical analysis was done with SAS software (version 9.4). GLM procedure was used for the analysis of variance. Means were compared with the least significant difference (LSD) test. Results The three-way interactions of rootstock × magnetized water × salinity stress significantly influenced total phenol and PAL enzyme activity. Additionally, the main effects of rootstock, magnetized water and salinity stress on leaf thickness, root diameter, RWC and, SPAD were significant. Increasing salinity levels reduced rootstock diameter, shoot growth, leaf water content, SPAD, and leaf area. However, salinity treatment increased leaf thickness, leaf temperature, phenolic compound concentration, antioxidant capacity, and PAL activity compared to control. The highest internode (17.58 cm) and rootstock diameter (2.18 mm) were obtained with 0.1 Tesla magnetized water treatment. Conversely, increasing salinity stress reduced internode length in both M7 and MM106 rootstocks, and the maximum internode length was produced in M7 under non-saline conditions (19.35 cm). Also, the highest rootstock diameter (19.83 mm) was observed in MM106 under non-saline conditions. Moreover, leaf RWC was higher in M7 (82.70%) compared to MM106. The highest PAL enzyme activity (62.77 nmol g-1F.W.-1) was recorded under 80 mM salinity, 1.0 Tesla magnetic water, and M7 rootstock. Conclusion The utilization of magnetized water resulted in enhancements across various parameters including rootstock diameter, shoot growth, leaf water content, surface area, phenolic compounds, and PAL enzyme activity, surpassing the control group. Combining magnetic water treatment with M7 rootstock demonstrated significant mitigation of salinity-induced effects on apple saplings. Thus, the joint application of M7 rootstock and magnetic water is advocated for both saline and non-saline environments. This research underscores the importance of employing sustainable approaches to combat salinity stress in apple orchards, offering insights into effective management strategies for enhancing crop resilience in challenging agricultural conditions.

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Research Paper

Evaluation and comparison of the percentage and yield of seed oil in different populations of the Dragon's head (Lallemantia iberica Fisch. et Mey) in the northwest of the country

Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh; Adel Dabbagh Mohammadi-Nasab; Yaegoob Raee; Payvand Samimifar; Mina Amani

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 30 June 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46229.2148

Abstract

Introduction: Dragon's head, due to low water requirement or in other words, low water expectation, a short growth period of about 80-95 days can be useful for the climatic conditions ... Read More Introduction: Dragon's head, due to low water requirement or in other words, low water expectation, a short growth period of about 80-95 days can be useful for the climatic conditions of the Iran, especially Azerbaijan. According to the planting of several ecotypes with diverse growth and yield characteristics and the measurement of various quantitative and qualitative traits, as well as the use of statistical methods in data analysis, it is possible to identify and introduce the compatible and suitable ecotypes for the region and, if necessary, in the breeding programs. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to investigate the percentage and yield of the oil of 49 ecotypes of Dragon's head. Materials and methods: In order to evaluate the characteristics related to the percentage and yield of the oil of 49 ecotypes of the Dragon's head collected from different regions of the Iran, a research in the form of a randomized complete block design with 3 replications was carried out during the years 2015 and 2016 in the research farm of the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Tabriz. The most important traits measured included the length of the fertile branch, seed yield per unit area and the number of seeds in the main and branch branches, as well as some qualitative traits such as oil percentage and oil yield. Data normality test was done using SPSS software and statistical analysis of data based on randomized complete block design and composite analysis using MSTAT-C and SPSS software. The comparison of the average data of the evaluated traits was done using Tukey's test at the probability level of 1%. Also, to group the ecotypes, cluster analysis was done by Ward's method, and the cut point of the resulting dendrogram was determined using the detection function analysis, and Excel software was used to draw the figures. Research findings: The obtained results showed that the ecotypes significant differences in most of the studied traits. In the regression analysis of oil yield, the highest regression coefficient (1.098) was observed in seed yield per unit area. Based on the average comparison results, ecotypes No. 37 (Alwar village of Bostanabad) with an average of 116.3 gr/m2, No. 23 (Tabriz 4) with an average of 107.7 gr/m2 and No. 24 (local mass of Kalvanagh 14) with an average of 101.7 gr/m2 had the highest grain yield per unit area. According to the results of the variance analysis table of ecotype effect on seed oil percentage, the yield of oil per surface unit was significant. So that ecotype No. 8 (indigenous population of Kalvanaq 7 city) with an average of 44.3 % had the highest percentage of oil in the seed among the 49 tested ecotypes, and ecotype No. 27 (native population of Param 1 Harris village) was in the next rank. While ecotype No. 37 (native population of Alwar village, Bostanabad) had the highest oil yield per unit area with an average of 44.4 gr. Conclusion: Based on the results of this research, ecotypes No. 37 (Alwar village of Bostanabad), 23 (Tabriz 4) and 24 (Kolvanagh 14) were recognized as the most suitable and compatible ecotypes for Tabriz city in terms of grain and oil yield traits.

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Research Paper

Effect of Selenium, Silicon and Zeolite on Yield and Yield Components and Percentage of essential oil of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller.) in Khosrowshahr Region

Jalil Shafagh-Kolvanagh; Mohammad Bagher Tajkhalili; Ahmad Bybordi; Mina Amani

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 30 June 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.44762.2122

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Studies have shown that the use of some compounds whose importance is often neglected by researchers and farmers can have a significant effect on the growth and ... Read More Abstract Introduction: Studies have shown that the use of some compounds whose importance is often neglected by researchers and farmers can have a significant effect on the growth and yield of plants and increase the amount of essential oil production in medicinal plants. Therefore, this research was conducted with the aim of investigating the effects of Selenium and Silicon foliar application and zeolite soil application on the yield and components of seed yield and the percentage and yield essential oil of Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller.). Materials and methods: This experiment was carried out in the form of a split split plot (twice chopped) based on a randomized complete block design with three replications at the Khosrowshahr Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center in the 2019 crop year. The first factor includes foliar spraying of calcium (zero and 4 gr/L) and the second factor includes foliar spraying of selenium (zero and 4 gr/L) in the main and secondary plots, respectively, and the third factor includes the application of zeolite (zero, 5 and 10 tons/ha) were placed in sub-sub-plots. In the full ripening stage, 50 plants were harvested from one square meter of each plot and the dry matter of the whole plant, number of seeds per umbels, number of seeds per plant, 1000-seed weight, seed yield, percentage and essential oil yield were measured. Results and Discussion: The results of variance analysis of the data showed that the effect of selenium on the number of umbels per plant, the number of seeds per umbel and plant was significant. The number of seeds in umbels and bush were affected by silicon and zeolite, respectively. The main effects of these treatments on grain yield, total dry matter and essential oil yield were significant. The seed yield increased with the application of these treatments, which resulted in an increase in the yield of fennel essential oil per unit area. Based on the results of the average data comparison, the use of all three compounds of zeolite, selenium and silicon caused a significant increase in the yield of fennel essential oil and increased this attribute by 24, 23.1, and 22.5 percent, respectively. gave silicon and selenium increased the yield of essential oil by increasing the seed yield. In addition, zeolite had a positive effect on seed yield through the number of seeds, while silicon and selenium increased both characteristics of yield components, including 1000-seed weight and number of seeds. Conclusion: In this study, the increase of essential oil yield under the influence of zeolite application was related to the increase of essential oil percentage, while silicon and selenium increased the yield of fennel essential oil. The results of this study showed that the use of all three compounds of zeolite, selenium and silicon caused an acceptable increase in the essential oil product and in most cases, the effects of all three compounds had an effect on the studied traits separately, so it can be said that these three compounds were effective on the studied plant with different mechanisms.

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Research Paper - Agronomy

Study of yield and yield components of camelina (Camelina sativa L.) under water deficit stress conditions with the application of zeolite and wood vinegar

Amirmohammad Abedi; Seyed Ali Mohammad Modarres-Sanavy; Ali Heidarzadeh

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 26 August 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46482.2155

Abstract

Introduction: The agricultural sector bears the responsibility of ensuring food security through domestic production and natural resource conservation. Oilseeds are among the essential ... Read More Introduction: The agricultural sector bears the responsibility of ensuring food security through domestic production and natural resource conservation. Oilseeds are among the essential food items that require a significant amount of water. Introducing Camelina plant as a suitable alternative with characteristics compatible with unfavorable environmental conditions and low requirements for water and nutrients can serve as an effective solution for diversifying cultivation and meeting the country's oil needs. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to investigate the yield and yield components of Camelina under zeolite and wood vinegar application in water deficit stress conditions. The experiment was carried out in 2023 in a split-plot factorial design with three replications at the Agricultural Faculty Farm of Tarbiat Modares University. The factors examined included irrigation regimes at four levels: optimal irrigation, mild water stress, moderate water stress, and severe water stress, corresponding to 20, 40, 60, and 80 percent of available water capacity after depletion (absorption in the root zone or evaporation), followed by irrigation to field capacity. These regimes were studied in main plots, combined with two levels of zeolite application (no application and 8 tons per hectares) and four levels of wood vinegar application (0, 5000, 10000, 15000 ppm) in subplots in a factorial combination. Results and Discussion: According to the results, it can be concluded that the use of zeolite and foliar spraying of wood vinegar in optimal irrigation conditions can have significant improvements in all the measured traits. Also, in moderate and severe irrigation conditions, these effects become more significant. But it should be noted that in severe irrigation, no significant effects of zeolite were observed, while the use of wood vinegar with a concentration of 10,000 ppm can have significant improvements in some plant characteristics, such as grain yield and harvest index. Overall, these results show that the use of zeolite and wood vinegar can be used as effective methods in improving the performance of plants, especially in low water conditions. According to the results, it can be concluded that the use of zeolite and foliar spraying of wood vinegar in optimal irrigation conditions can have significant improvements in all the measured traits. Also, in moderate and severe irrigation conditions, these effects become more significant. But it should be noted that in severe irrigation, no significant effects of zeolite were observed, while the use of wood vinegar with a concentration of 10,000 ppm can have significant improvements in some plant characteristics, such as grain yield and harvest index. Overall, these results show that the use of zeolite and wood vinegar can be used as effective methods in improving the performance of plants, especially in low water conditions. According to the results, it can be concluded that the use of zeolite and foliar spraying of wood vinegar in optimal irrigation conditions can have significant improvements in all the measured traits. Also, in moderate and severe irrigation conditions, these effects become more significant. But it should be noted that in severe irrigation, no significant effects of zeolite were observed, while the use of wood vinegar with a concentration of 10,000 ppm can have significant improvements in some plant characteristics, such as grain yield and harvest index. Overall, these results show that the use of zeolite and wood vinegar can be used as effective methods in improving the performance of plants, especially in low water conditions. Conclusion: For increasing seed yield and biological yield, moderate water stress along with zeolite application is recommended as the most cost-effective treatment. In severe water stress conditions, the application of wood vinegar foliar application at 10000 ppm concentration is recommended to enhance seed yield and biological yield.

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Research Paper

The effect of foliar application of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) and forchlorfenuron (CPPU) on some physiological and biochemical characteristics of strawberry cv. Camarosa

Naeimeh Soukht Saraei; Feryal Varasteh; Hamid Reza Sadeghipour

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47877.2199

Abstract

Introduction Strawberry is one of the most popular fruits, accordingly, its maintenance and increased quality without using harmful chemical compounds is of great concern. Gamma-aminobutyric ... Read More Introduction Strawberry is one of the most popular fruits, accordingly, its maintenance and increased quality without using harmful chemical compounds is of great concern. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a four-carbon non-protein amino acid that affects plant growth activities, tricarboxylic acid cycle, production of primary and secondary metabolites, and response to biotic and abiotic stresses. Growth hormones, especially those growth regulators that increase photosynthesis and plant function, have good potential for agricultural development. The plant hormone cytokinin plays an effective role in controlling many vital processes, including plant growth and flowering. Cytokinins cause an increase in cell division, and therefore, if they are used in the initial stage of the sigmoid curve of fruit growth, when cell division is underway, they may increase the number of cells in each fruit. Materials and Methods The well-developed and consistent strawberry plantlets of the Camarosa cultivar were planted during October 2022 in Ramian County, Golestan province, Iran (UTM: 318446, 4092385). The foliar application of GABA solutions at 10 and 20 mM as well as control (water) was carried out at the flowering stage and 10 days later and the foliar application of forchlorfenuron )CPPU( solutions at 5 and 10 mg/L was carried out at the flowering stage. This research was conducted in the form of a complete randomized blocks design in three replications. Fruits were collected when they reached a consistent ripening stage, as characterized by change of fruit's surface color to red by more than 75% and were promptly transported to the laboratory for analysis. Root volume and weight, total sugar and leaf photosynthetic pigments, length, diameter and shape of fruit, percentage of malformed fruit, fruit firmness, total sugar, fruit color, total weight of harvested fruit and fruit cytokinin were assessed. Data analysis was done using SAS version 9.1 software and comparison of means was done through Duncan's multiple range test at the 1% probability level. Results and Discussion The analysis of variance of the data showed that the effect of GABA treatment at the probability level of 1% on root volume and weight, carotenoid and chlorophyll b of leaf, fruit firmness and the total weight of the harvested fruit at the probability level of 1% and on the total chlorophyll of leaf and percentage of malformed fruit at the probability level of 5% was significant. Leaf area, chlorophyll a, total leaf sugar, fruit length, diameter and length-to-diameter ratio were not affected by GABA spraying. Also, the effect of CPPU treatment was significant at 1% probability level on root volume and weight, leaf area, leaf carotenoid, fruit length and firmness, and percentage of malformed fruits, and at 5% probability level on chlorophyll a and total, fruit length to diameter ratio. Total sugar and chlorophyll b of leaf, fruit diameter and total weight of harvested fruit were not affected by CPPU solution. GABA treatment (20 mM) could increase the total weight of the harvested fruits from each experimental unit by 17%. Plants sprayed with CPPU had more leaf area compared to the control non-sprayed plants. The total chlorophyll amount of leaf increased with increasing GABA and CPPU concentration, and the highest leaf total chlorophyll was found in 20 mM GABA (1.384 mg/g) and 10 mg/L CPPU (1.430 mg/g). 10 mg/L CPPU treatment caused 107 and 59% increase in root volume and weight compared to the control, respectively. The highest fruit length (65.51 mm) and fruit length to diameter ratio (1.69) were obtained in plants sprayed with 10 mg/L CPPU. The highest firmness of the fruit tissue (1.96 N/cm2) was observed in plants sprayed with 20 mM GABA. Accordingly, GABA and CPPU treatments could significantly reduce the malformed fruit and the lowest was observed in CPPU treatment at a concentration of 10 mg/L. Also, both GABA and CPPU treatments had a significant effect on fruit color brightness index and total fruit sugar. Conclusion GABA and CPPU can act as a regulatory factor for plant growth and development. In general, the fruits obtained from plants sprayed with GABA and CPPU were of higher quality. Finally, according to the results, foliar spraying of Camarosa strawberry plants with 20 mM GABA and 10 mg/L CPPU is recommended in order to produce high-quality and long-lasting fruit.

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Research Paper

Study of phenological, physiological, and yield responses of indehiscent and dehiscent sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) cultivars to sowing dates in Dezful, Iran

Mehdei Attar Roshan; Afrasiyab Rahnama; Moosa Meskarbashee; Mohammad reza Siahpoosh; Matthew Harrison

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47179.2178

Abstract

Extended abstract Introduction Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest oilseed crops cultivated for purposes relating to industry and household consumption. It is widely grown ... Read More Extended abstract Introduction Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the oldest oilseed crops cultivated for purposes relating to industry and household consumption. It is widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Sesame productivity can be highly variable depending upon the growing conditions, cultivars, and cultural practices. Sowing date is a critical field crop management practice that influences the intensity of other practices applied in crop growth and production. Grain yield significantly influences by sowing date and cultivar. The optimal sowing date is one of the most important and low cost field management practices affecting crop growth and yield. In general, early sowing dates correspond to higher growth and grain yields. The aim of this study was to explore an optimum sowing date for new indehiscent sesame cultivars and obtain new superior cultivars with the highest yield potential and adaptation to different sowing date in Dezful region. Materials and Methods In order to study the effects of different sowing dates on phonological traits, photosynthetic parameters, and grain and oil yields of dehiscent and indehiscent sesame cultivars, a field experiment was carried out in a split plot arrangement in randomized complete block design with four replications in 2021-2022. The study site was located in Dezful, Iran. The main plots included three sowing dates, June 5, June 20, and July 20, and the sub-plots consisted three indehiscent (Chamran, Mohajer, Barkat) and one dehiscent (Schewin) sesame cultivars. 5 th June sowing date was considered as early sowing date, and 5 th July sowing date was considered as early sowing date. The data regarding plant heigh, height of the first capsule, length of capsule bearing zone, days to the first capsule emergence, days to flowering, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, chlorophylle index, grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield was recorded. Results and discussion Significant genotypic differences in phenological traits, photosynthetic parameters, and grain and oil yields were observed among cultivars and across treatments. Different sowing dates differently influenced photosynthetic properties, phenological traits, and grain and oil yields of sesame cultivars. Sowing dates differently led to significant changes in plant heigh, height of the first capsule, length of capsule bearing zone, days to the first capsule emergence, days to flowering, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, chlorophylle index, grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield. In both years. In 2021, 5 th June early sowing date caused a significant decrease in grain yield of Chamran, Schewin, Mohajer and Barkat cultivars by 1, 25, 11 and 6%, respectively, compared to 20 th June sowing date, while 5 th July late sowing date caused a significant reduction in grain yield of Mohajer and Barkat by 21and 37%, respectively, but increased grain yield of Chamran and Schewin by 12 and 28%, respectively. There was genetic variation in grain and oil yield across cultivars in response to sowing dates. Barkat and Mohajer cultivars with the higher grain yield showed greater grain yield stability in response to early sowing date, when compared to Schwin cultivar. Conclusion Overall, the results of this experiment showed that optimum sowing dates from 5 th June to 20 th June is recommended as the optimal sowing date to improve sesame production in humid tropical areas. Moreover, Barkat cultivar had the highest grain and oil yield; it is recommended along with Mohajer cultivar for both early and late sowing date conditions in Khuzestan region. Keywords: Days to flowering, Oil yield, Photosynthetic rate, Stomatal conductance

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Research Paper - Biotic and Abiotic Stress

Effect of biological stimuli on Some Biochemical Characteristics of Fennel Plant under Cadmium Stress

seyedeh yalda Raeisi Sadati; Fereshteh Raeisi Sadati

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46447.2152

Abstract

Introduction: Today, with the industrialization of societies, many toxic compounds have been released into the environment. Environmental pollution caused by heavy metals is one of ... Read More Introduction: Today, with the industrialization of societies, many toxic compounds have been released into the environment. Environmental pollution caused by heavy metals is one of the most important global factors of soil pollution that threatens food security. Considering that most of Iran's calcareous soils are exposed to the stress of heavy metals and this problem is increasing day by day. Today, researchers are looking for a solution to reduce the toxic effects of heavy metals in the soil and to improve the quality of crops grown in soils contaminated with heavy metals. Materials and Methods: This experiment was conducted in order to evaluate some biochemical characteristics of fennel plant and the possibility of mitigating the effects of cadmium heavy metal stress by foliar spraying of selenium nanoparticles, algae extract and their interaction in greenhouse conditions in a factorial manner based on a randomized complete block experimental design with three replications in 2023-2024 was implemented. The first factor includes the heavy metal cadmium chloride at two levels (control and 20 mg/kg of soil) and the second factor is foliar feeding at three levels (control, algal extract, and selenium nanoparticle with concentrations of 1 mg/L and 20 mg/L, respectively. In the four-leaf stage, foliar spraying at three zero levels, algae extract (2 mg/liter) and selenium nanoparticle (20 mg/liter) was done three times with a time interval of 15 days, and ten days after the plant was placed under stress For this purpose, sampling of control and treatment samples was done in order to check the biochemical parameters at the end of the physiological stage of the plant. Results: The findings showed that under cadmium stress, the amount of malondialdehyde, catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes, proline content and ion leakage percentage increased significantly, while the content of photosynthetic pigments decreased compared to the control. Also, the highest level of malondialdehyde concentration and activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes were observed in foliar spraying with algal extract under cadmium stress compared to the control. The synergistic effect of selenium nanoparticle and algal extract decreased ion leakage by 3.91% and increased proline and photosynthetic pigments by 16.73%, especially chlorophyll b by 33.11%. In other words, the adverse effects of cadmium stress have been reduced by strengthening the antioxidant and photosynthetic system of fennel plant by selenium nanoparticles and algae extract.Also, the highest level of malondialdehyde concentration and activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase enzymes were observed in foliar spraying with algal extract under cadmium stress compared to the control. The synergistic effect of selenium nanoparticle and algal extract decreased ion leakage by 3.91% and increased proline and photosynthetic pigments by 16.73%, especially chlorophyll b by 33.11%. In other words, the adverse effects of cadmium stress have been reduced by strengthening the antioxidant and photosynthetic system of fennel plant by selenium nanoparticles and algae extract. Conclusions: In general, foliar feeding with algal extract (concentration of 1 mg/L) due to the high content of macro and micro elements and antioxidant properties compared to selenium nanoparticles, has been able to inhibit free radicals by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and by reducing the electrolyte leakage, maintain the integrity of the membrane in the condition of cadmium stress.

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Research Paper - Agroecology

Evaluating the effect of organic fertilizer in different crop densities on agromorphological characteristics and essential oil yield of Thymus daenensis Celak in rainfed conditions.

Hoshang Rahmati; Hooshmand Safari

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46887.2167

Abstract

Introduction Thyme is a plant with valuable metabolites, which is of high importance in the food, pharmaceutical and health industries due to its medicinal properties. Identifying ... Read More Introduction Thyme is a plant with valuable metabolites, which is of high importance in the food, pharmaceutical and health industries due to its medicinal properties. Identifying the agricultural factors affecting the quantitative and qualitative changes of medicinal plants can be the reason for their better and more production. The use of chemical fertilizers has caused many environmental problems; therefore, it is important to use organic fertilizers in different density patterns of cultivation in order to reduce the consumption of chemical fertilizers to achieve sustainable agriculture. Materials and methods This research was carried out as a split-plot design in the form of a randomized complete block design with two factors and three replications in rainfed conditions in Kermanshah province during the two crop years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 at Mahidasht research station. The main factor included three levels (Caw manure at the rate of 20 tons per hectare, enriched straw at the rate of 10 tons per hectare and no fertilizer application) along with agricultural soil without applying fertilizer, and the sub factor was three densities (4, 6 and 8 plants per square meter) was cultivated. The three plants were randomly selected from each plot, plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, canopy diameter (cm) were measured. In the flowering stage, one square meter was harvested from each plot and the wet weight was measured in grams per square meter, and the dry weight of each plot was recorded in grams per square meter. Also, the dry weight of leaves and stems was measured in grams per plant for each plot, which, leaf to stem ratio was calculated for each plot by dividing leaf to stem weight. From each plot, the essential oil of 20 grams of dried leaves were extracted using a Clevenger, and the percentage of essential oil was determined for each plot, and finally, according to the dry leaf yield per square meter, the amount of essential oil yield of aerial parts of the plant per square meter was calculated for each plot. Results and Discussion Analysis of variance showed that different fertilizers and different levels of density had a significant effect on all traits, but the interaction of fertilizer × density had a significant effect only on the traits of percentage and yield of essential oil. According to the mean comparison by Duncan's method, fertilizer increased the growth of thyme and all the vegetative characteristics of the plant were affected by the use of fertilizer and among the two types of fertilizers used, the effect of animal manure was better. On the other hand, with the increase in density, the plant height increased, but the number of branches in the plant and the canopy diameter showed a decreasing trend, and in contrast to these two characteristics, the wet and dry yield of the plant was lower in low and high density than in medium density. A different trend was observed for the percentage and yield of essential oil and as such, the percentage of essential oil increased by 17.53% by reducing the density from 8 plants to 4 plants, but in contrast, the yield of essential oil showed a decrease of 5.42%. The results of principal components analysis of the traits in different agricultural conditions showed that 94.3% of the variance was expressed based on the first two components, and the bi-plot of the two components confirmed the results of mean comparison. Conclusion According to the final goal of this research, which was to determine the best density and fertilizer to achieve the desired result in the cultivation of rain fed thyme, therefore, based on the grouping of the two-factor interaction and principal components analysis, it was observed that the use of manure at the rate of 20 tons per hectare with density cultivation of 6 plants per square meter is the most suitable treatment for the cultivation of thyme in the rainfed conditions of Kermanshah province, which can be recommended for the cultivation of this species in the rainy conditions of Kermanshah province

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Research Paper - Pomology

Effect of preharvest foliar spraying of compounds containing calcium and potassiumon on the shelf life of thornless blackberry

ehsan alinezhad; Mehdi hadadinejad; Kamran Ghasemi; Morteza Soleimani Aghdam

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46550.2157

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Blackberries due to the lack of protective layer or cuticle, are sensitive to decay and weight loss wrinkle after harvest. Therefore, blackberry have a short ... Read More Background and Objectives: Blackberries due to the lack of protective layer or cuticle, are sensitive to decay and weight loss wrinkle after harvest. Therefore, blackberry have a short life and long-term storage of blackberry is difficult. For this reason, in this study, the effect of pre-harvest treatments on the shelf life of thornless blackberry was investigated. Materials and Methods: This experiment was conducted in 2020 as a factorial in the form of a completely randomized design with two factors in three replications. The first factor consisted of nutritional treatments at five levels (control, calcium nitrate 5 g/L, potassium silicate 1 g/L, calcium nitrate 5 g/L + potassium silicate 1 g/L, and potassium fertilizer 51-0-0 with a concentration of 3.5 g/L) which applied in stage fruitset. The second factor was storage time in cold storage(4 ͦC) at four levels (0, 6, 12 and 18 days post harvesting). Qualitative traits (percentage of weight loss and firmness of the fruit), sensory quality (pH of the extract, soluble solids, taste index, ascorbic acid), nutritional value (total phenol and anthocyanin), and sensory evaluation (marketability, taste, and color of the fruit) were examined. Results: The results indicated during the storage period of blackberry, the weight loss of the berry showed an increasing trend. The combined treatment of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate significantly reduced berry water loss on the eighteenth day. This treatment also managed to maintain the highest berry firmness (0.21 N) during storage, whereas a decrease in firmness was observed with an increase in storage time. Berry length and width decreased with increased storage time, with the highest values obtained in the control treatment (2.107 and 1.923 centimeters, respectively). The levels of soluble solids and taste index increased from harvest to the twelfth day, with the highest amounts (9 and 4.22, respectively) obtained in the potassium silicate treatment. Also, the examination of the amount of ascorbic acid showed that during the storage period of blackberry, its amount in the control treatment increased until the sixth day and then decreased until the end of the storage period. The application of potassium silicate led to a significant preservation (P≤ 0.05) of vitamin C compared to other treatments during storage, with 9% of vitamin C observed in this treatment on the eighteenth day. The highest amount of phenols during storage, with the application of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate, was 74.75 mg/g gallic acid of fruit extract. Based on the results, fruit anthocyanin also showed the highest amount (189.8 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside per liter of juice) in the combined treatment of calcium nitrate*potassium silicate on the day of harvest.Finally, the sensory parameter evaluation showed that fruit quality decreased with increased storage time, along with a reduction in consumer preference. Among pre-harvest treatments, potassium treatments were found to be more effective. Discussion: The overall results have shown that using a combined treatment of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate increases the firmness of fruit during storage. Additionally, potassium silicate has a positive impact on the soluble solid content and fruit taste index, and it can help preserve vitamin C in the fruit. The use of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate enhances the levels of phenols and anthocyanins in the fruit. While the quality of the fruit may decrease with longer storage time, the use of nutritional treatments can assist farmers and fruit sellers in improving storage and enhancing the quality of their products.

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Research Paper - Weed Sciences

Yield gap analysis of rice in Shoaybiyeh, Khuzestan: yield-reducing factors have the greatest contribution to grain yield reduction

Ghazban Anafjeh; Elham Elahifard; Abolfazl Derakhshan; Ahmad Zare

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46453.2153

Abstract

Introduction One of the main issues of crop production in Iran and many countries of the world is the difference between the farmers’ yields (actual yield) and the achievable ... Read More Introduction One of the main issues of crop production in Iran and many countries of the world is the difference between the farmers’ yields (actual yield) and the achievable yields (potential yield). This distance and yield difference is named the yield gap. Therefore, research was conducted with the aim of determining the rice yield gap in Shoaybiyeh region of Khuzestan province. Materials and Methods This research was conducted in 2020 growing season as a survey in 100 rice fields in Shoaybiyeh region of Shushtar county. Comparative performance analysis method was used to determine rice grain yield gap. The modeling of grain production in rice fields was done by examining the relationship between all the investigated variables with the grain yields observed in the fields using progressive stepwise regression method. The production model obtained with this method was able to justify 89% of the grain yield changes of the studied rice fields with the studied variables. Results and Discussion The results showed that there was a gap of about 1495 kg ha-1 between the average yield of farmers (5044.47 kg ha-1) and the achievable yields in the region (6902.61 kg ha-1). From this value of the expected yield gap in the region, the contribution of factors such as the age of the farmer, the intensity of the weed infestation in the fields, the presence of weed in the fields, the use of adjuvants during the spraying operation, the intensity of the infestation of the field with the striped rice stemborer, and the intensity of the infestation of the fields with the blast disease were equivalent to 3.29, 62.29, 2.53, 6.99, 20.22 and 4.68%, respectively. The analysis of rice yield gap showed that the weed infestation of the fields alone accounted for about 62.3% of the yield reduction compared to the achievable yields. In all the studied fields, the weeds of purple nutsedge, junglerice, broadleaf cattail, and johnsongrass were observed and recorded. Due to the lack of diversity in the fields, the model was not able to distinguish the amount of yield loss caused by these weeds. Intensity of weed contamination of rice fields was also observed in only 6% of the fields, and in the remaining 94%, moderate to very high contamination was observed. Some used herbicides such as bensulfuron-methyl and tribenuron-methyl showed a significant negative relationship with grain yields observed in rice fields. Therefore, it seems that farmers should reconsider the use of these herbicides in rice fields. Also, the delay in sowing and laxuary consumption of nitrogenous fertilizers was closely related to the severity of weed infestation and yield reduction. Investigating the relationship between the yields obtained in rice fields and the date of herbicide spraying (31 to 77 days after planting), a significant negative relationship was clearly observed; That is, with the delay in the spraying time and the consequent increase in the competitive ability of weeds, which may be associated with the decrease in the effectiveness of herbicides, yield have decreased linearly. Conclusion In general, among the variables that had a significant impact on the observed yields in the region, except for the age variable of the farmer, all of them were related to yield-reducing factors, including pests, diseases, and weeds. Based on the results, the yield reducing factors, explained about 90% of the yield gap observed in the region.

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Research Paper

A Study on the Effects of Chemical and Biological Fertilizers on the Essential Oil Content of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.)

Bohlol Abbaszadeh; Masoumeh Layegh haghighi; Razieh Azimi; Negar Valizadeh

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47372.2188

Abstract

A Study on the Effects of Chemical and Biological Fertilizers on the Essential Oil Content of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) Abstract: Introduction: The use of medicinal plants and ... Read More A Study on the Effects of Chemical and Biological Fertilizers on the Essential Oil Content of Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) Abstract: Introduction: The use of medicinal plants and their products has expanded significantly in various countries. Sage, scientifically known as Salvia officinalis, is a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the mint family. Sage leaves contain various types of flavonoids and phenolic compounds and possess important medicinal properties such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, sage leaves and flowering tops are used in food processing and perfumery. Some compounds present in sage essential oil, such as 1,8-cineole, borneol, camphor, and thujone, exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, memory-enhancing, anti-Alzheimer's, and anticancer properties. The application of biofertilizers not only plays a crucial role in increasing the yield of medicinal plants but also affects the quality of active compounds. One of the strategies in sustainable agricultural systems to enhance soil fertility is the minimal use of on-farm inputs, including biofertilizers, and their combined application with organic and chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, nutrient management is a vital factor in successful cultivation. Materials and methods A factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications was conducted in the 2021-2022 growing season at the Research Farm of the Forest and Rangelands Research Institute of Iran to evaluate the effects of chemical and biological fertilizers on the percentage and composition of sage essential oil. Treatments included a control (no fertilizer), chemical fertilizers (150 kg/ha phosphorus from triple superphosphate and 300 kg/ha nitrogen from urea), and inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi (Funneliformis mosseae and Rhizophagus irregularis) and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (Pseudomonas fluorescens strain 187). Results and Discussion: Results showed that the application of chemical fertilizers significantly affected the yield and percentage of essential oil compounds including alpha-pinene, camphene, 1,8-cineole, alpha-thujone, and beta-thujone, as well as the total of hydrocarbon monoterpenes, oxygenated monoterpenes, and oxygenated sesquiterpenes. The yield of compounds such as alpha-pinene, 1,8-cineole, alpha-thujone, beta-thujone, and camphor was also significantly affected. The highest percentage of alpha-thujene (% 0.25) were obtained in the treatment with both urea and phosphate fertilizers. The highest percentage of linalool and camphor yield was obtained in the treatment with biofertilizers. The highest essential oil yield with averages of 97.57, 97.07, and 89.27 kg/ha belonged to the treatments N300P0 * Funneliformis mosseae + Rhizophagus irregularis+ Pseudomonas fluorescens strain 187, Pseudomonas fluorescens strain 187 * N0P150, and Funneliformis mosseae + Rhizophagus irregularis + Pseudomonas fluorescens strain 187* N0P150, respectively." Conclusion: The results of this study indicated that sage, due to its abundant aerial biomass production, requires adequate fertilization to achieve high yields. However, the essential oil percentage of this plant was not affected by environmental factors such as fertilization and seemed to be more controlled by genetic factors. This finding can significantly contribute to the selection and introduction of cultivars with high essential oil percentages in the future. Furthermore, by combining chemical and biological fertilizers, it is possible to effectively influence the percentage and quantity of major essential oil compounds in sage and achieve the production of higher quality plants with a higher percentage of specific compounds.

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Research Paper - Cereals

Determining the optimal plant density in two types of soil with different physicochemical properties in manual and machine transplanting of rice (Oryza sativa L).

Ebrahim Rezaei; Morteza Sam Daliri; Hamid Reza Mobasser; Amir Abbas Mousavi Mirkolaei; Morteza Moballeghi

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47425.2191

Abstract

Introduction Rice (Oryza sativa L) is recognized as an important food product in the world. The survival of approximately 3 billion people depends on the production of this crop. Increasing ... Read More Introduction Rice (Oryza sativa L) is recognized as an important food product in the world. The survival of approximately 3 billion people depends on the production of this crop. Increasing yield and sustainable production of rice is necessary for food security in the world. The transplanting of rice seedlings in Iran is by machine and manual-traditional. Machine transplanting is a promising technology that is more efficient and requires less labor than traditional manual transplanting. Having little land and the poor financial status of farmers are among the shortcomings of adopting this technology. Rice production is determined mostly by the soil. Soil is one of the most important environmental factors and the main source of nutrients and water for the growth of plants. Decreasing soil quality will reduce rice production. Maintaining soil properties at the desired level is one of the important management issues. Determining the appropriate plant density is the most basic and critical consideration for high-yield rice planting. Because it can accelerate tillering in each plant, balance the variables and promote the harmonious growth of the plant and the plant community. By determining the optimal plant density, it is possible to achieve the maximum yield of the crop. The current study aims to determine the optimal plant density in two soils with different physicochemical properties in a region under manual and machine rice transplanting methods. Materials and Methods A split-split plot experiment was conducted based on a randomized complete block design with four replications in 2021 and 2022. The experimental site is located along the coast of the Caspian Sea (36°50′N, 52°83′E; 29 m asl) at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Qaemshahr Azad University, Mazandaran Province (Northern Iran). Physical and chemical properties of soil (first type soil and second type soil) as the main factor, planting method (manual and machine transplanting) as a sub-factor, and plant density (15.9, 20.8, and 27.8 plants m-2 with spaces of 30 × 21, 30 × 16, and 30 × 12 cm2, respectively) as a sub-sub-factor were studied. In the current experiment, phenological traits (the number of days from transplanting to the beginning of flowering and the beginning of flowering to maturity), root morphological characteristics (root length and root fresh weight in tillering, panicle initiation, and maturity stages), and other agronomical traits (panicle length, number of panicles m-2, total spikelet panicle-1, weight of 1000 grains, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index) were measured. Combined variance analysis of the measured data was statistically analyzed by SAS version 9.2 and MSTAT-C statistical softwares. Results and Discussion Results showed that in the panicle initiation stage, the maximum root length in 2022 was obtained at a density of 27.8 plants m-2 (23.9 cm). At the same stage, the maximum fresh weight of the root in 2022 was observed with the second type soil (66.2 g). In the maturity stage, the maximum root length was recorded with the second type of soil during manual transplanting (22.4 cm). At the same stage, the highest root fresh weight was observed with the second type of soil at a density of 15.9 plants m-2 (86.4 g). The highest number of panicles m-2 in the second type of soil was obtained, respectively, during machine transplanting with a density of 27.8 plants m-2 (554.6 panicles) and during manual transplanting with the same plant density (547.4 panicles). The maximum total number of spikelets panicle-1 was observed in the first type of soil during manual transplanting and the density of 27 plants m-2 (134.1 spikelets), which was due to the number of panicles m-2 (427.0 panicles). The minimum weight of 1000 grains in 2021 was obtained with the first type of soil during manual transplanting (26.6 g). The grain yield in the second type soil was 8.7% higher than the first type soil. Also, the highest grain yield was observed at a density of 27.8 plants m-2 (8687 kg ha-1). Conclusion Based on the results obtained in the present study, the second type of soil and a density of 27.8 plants m-2 are separately suggested to achieve the highest grain yield.

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Research Paper - Plant Physiology

Efficacy of nitric oxide and zinc oxide nanoparticles in improving growth, nutrition, metabolism and reproductive development in tomato plants

Elham Danaee; zahra oraghi ardebili

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46944.2170

Abstract

Introduction There is no doubt that significant progress is being made in nanoscience and technology, which has paved the way for advancements in many different fields such as agriculture, ... Read More Introduction There is no doubt that significant progress is being made in nanoscience and technology, which has paved the way for advancements in many different fields such as agriculture, biology, food, and medicine. Among the different types of nano-scaled metal oxides, zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) are among the most widely employed nano-compounds in various industries, including agriculture, food, and medicine. Nitric oxide (NO) is a bioactive signaling substance in living organisms, including plants, which plays vital roles in different stages of plant development during the life cycle. Physiological responses of crop plants to long-term application of NO or ZnONPs individually and mixed manners have not been well investigated and remain largely unknown. The purpose of this research is to investigate the effect of long-term foliar application of NO or ZnONPs on the growth performance and physiology of tomato plants. Considering the necessity of developing a sustainable agricultural approach, this project was designed to evaluate the effect of long-term foliar application of NO or ZnONPs on the growth, performance, nutrition and metabolism of tomato plants. Materials and methods This study was implemented as a completely randomized design with four treatment groups and three independent replications. This experiment was conducted in soilless conditions (cocopeat and perlite) in a greenhouse (Islamic Azad University, Garmsar branch, Garmsar). Tomato seedlings was irrigated with Hoagland nutrient solution. 30-day-old tomato seedlings were sprayed with ZnO-NP at two concentrations (0 and 3 mg/L) or NO (0 and 25 μM) 15 times with an interval of 72 hours. Results and Discussion The results showed that NO and ZnONPs treatments, especially in the combined one, caused a significant increase in the biomass in shoot and root compared to the control. The applied treatments also affected the characteristics of the plants in the reproductive stage. The application of NO and ZnONPs treatments significantly reduced the time of entering into the reproductive phase, increased fruit production, and enhanced fruit biomass, which indicated the effectiveness of these treatments on plant reproductive development. Foliar spraying with NO and ZnONPs caused a significant improvement in the content of several essential minerals, including potassium (K+), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) in both leaves and fruits, compared to the control group. The NO and ZnONPs treatments synergistically and significantly augmented in the concentrations of photosynthetic pigments, including chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), and carotenoids in leaves in comparison to the control group. The highest amount of proline amino acid was observed in ZnONP and NO+ZnONP treatment groups, which was significantly higher than the control group. Single and combined treatments of seedlings with NO and ZnONPs led to a significant increase in the content of soluble phenols in leaves compared to the control group. Phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzyme activity also followed the same trend as soluble phenols. Also, the activity of antioxidant peroxidase enzyme showed a significant up-regulation in response to the application of NO or ZnONPs. The highest activity of nitrate reductase enzyme was recorded in the leaves of plants simultaneously supplemented with NO and ZnONPs. Conclusion The results of this research indicated that foliar spraying with NO or ZnONPs at low concentration can lead to the promotion of plant growth and metabolism and also strengthening the plant's defense system, while reducing the risk of possible toxicity. These findings can be useful for designing future studies on nano-fertilizers or pesticides. This study also emphasizes the necessity of providing transcriptome and proteome data in future studies

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Research Paper - Post Harvest Physiology

Investigating the physicochemical changes of Golden Delicious apple fruit (Malus domestica cv. Golden Delicious) with the application of chitosan and nanochitosan before harvesting and calcium chloride immersion after harvesting

Fatemeh Eyni Tari; Abdollah Ehtesham Nia; Hassan mumivand; Mohamadreza Raji

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

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

Abstract

Introduction Today, healthy lifestyle has faced a high demand at the global level and this demand has increased the need to preserve or better store fresh food items such as fruits ... Read More Introduction Today, healthy lifestyle has faced a high demand at the global level and this demand has increased the need to preserve or better store fresh food items such as fruits because of their abundant amounts of vitamins and minerals. On the other hand, the increase in post-harvest waste has made it necessary to develop the use of natural compounds compatible with nature and humans, in order to produce products free of harmful substances and with high nutritional value, along with reducing waste. Materials and Methods For this purpose, the present experiment is a factorial in the form of a completely randomized design, in 4 replications and includes the first factor of foliar treatments before and after harvesting, including control treatments (spraying with distilled water), chitosan (50 mg/lit) and Nano chitosan (50 and 100 mg/lit) and immersion of the harvested fruits with calcium chloride solution in the post-harvest phase (0 and 2 %) and the second factor of storage time (at 0, 60, 90 and 120 days) ) was carried out on fruits of Golden delicious apple grafted on MM 111 (Malling Merton 111). The foliar spraying before harvesting was done in an 18-year-old apple orchard, located in the Abestan region of Khorramabad city, and the immersion phase was carried out in the laboratory after harvesting at Lorestan University. After initial washing, the fruits were first washed with distilled water, dried and then immersed in calcium chloride solution at room temperature for 8 minutes. Then, in the vicinity of the cool air flow, in order to ensure the removal of excess surface moisture, it was kept in plastic fruit boxes and in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 ° and a relative humidity of 80-90% until the time of measuring the parameters. In this study, physiological and biochemical characteristics such as weight loss, acidity, titratable acids, soluble solids, ripening index, vitamin C and malondialdehyde were investigated. Results and Discussion The results of the research showed that the treatments used affected the investigated characteristics of apple fruit. The treated fruits had less weight loss than the control treatment. Examining the biochemical characteristics also showed the positive effect of all the treatments on the desired parameters, so that the most titratable acids, vitamin C and the least amount of acidity and malondialdehyde were obtained in the combined treatments of nano chitosan and calcium chloride. Also, the treatments used reduced the soluble solids and fruit ripening index. Coatings such as chitosan create a barrier with selective permeability against oxygen and carbon dioxide gases and create an altered atmosphere by placing carbon dioxide at a higher level and reducing oxygen around the fruit, which process increases respiration rate and ethylene production. reduce the aging process. Conclusion Based on the general results, it can be stated that the application of 100 mg/lit chitosan nanoparticle treatments in the pre-harvest stage along with the immersion of the fruits in the post-harvest stage in a 2% calcium chloride solution, in most features It showed better results than other treatment levels.

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Research Paper - Moderate Fruits

Evaluation of Quantitative and Qualitative Traits of Peach Cultivars under the Climatic Conditions of Kermanshah Province

Isa Arji; Mohammad Gerdakaneh; Ali Imani; Rahmatollah Gholami

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47668.2192

Abstract

Introduction Peach is one of the most important fruit trees that has been cultivated in Iran since ancient times. Therefore, investigating the adaptability and selecting the best peach ... Read More Introduction Peach is one of the most important fruit trees that has been cultivated in Iran since ancient times. Therefore, investigating the adaptability and selecting the best peach varieties for its cultivation expansion is of great importance. The ability of a peach cultivar (a specific cultivated variety of peach) to adapt to a new environment depends on several factors, including: climate, soil and disease and pest resistance. Understanding these factors is crucial for successfully introducing peach cultivars to new areas. Researchers and growers are constantly working to develop new cultivars, evaluate existing cultivars and refine agricultural practices. By considering cultivar adaptability and implementing appropriate strategies, growers can expand peach cultivation into new regions, increasing fruit production and diversifying the agricultural landscape. Materials and Methods This project was conducted with 15 peach varieties to evaluate their adaptability for a period of three years starting from 2016 at the Urban Orchard Research Station in Kermanshah Province. The trees were planted in a randomized complete block design with three replications at a spacing of 4 m x 4 m in December 2013. Four trees were planted in each experimental unit, and a total of 12 trees were evaluated for each variety. To evaluate the pomological and yield characteristics of the cultivars, various fruit traits were measured over a three-year period from 2016 to 2018. These traits included fruit and stone weight, fruit and stone dimensions, stone-to-flesh adhesion, skin and flesh color, percent soluble solids, pH, fruit acidity, tree yield, yield efficiency, ripening time, and ripening duration. At the onset of fruit color change, all fruits on each tree were counted. Upon ripening, all fruits of each cultivar were harvested and weighed. A 30-fruit sample was then selected to determine weight, flesh content, stone weight, and fruit quality parameters, including soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity. To assess quality traits, juice was first prepared from five ripe fruits. Soluble solids were measured using a handheld refractometer model [refractometer model]. pH was measured using a pH meter model [pH meter model]. Titratable acidity was determined by titration with 0.1 N NaOH solution in the presence of phenolphthalein indicator until a color change to purple was observed. The amount of NaOH consumed indicates the malic acid content per 100 g of fruit, which is the predominant acid in peach and nectarine fruits (Cantín et al., 2010). The collected data were analyzed using the MSTATC software, and mean comparisons were performed using Duncan's multiple range test. Results The results showed that there were significant differences among the varieties in terms of various fruit characteristics, including the number of fruits per tree, fruit weight, fruit and stone dimensions, fruit yield per tree and hectare, and fruit quality characteristics such as soluble solids, pH, and titratable acidity. The average yield over three years indicated that the fruit yield per hectare varied among the varieties from about 5.5 tons per hectare to about 38 tons per hectare. The 'Suncrest' variety had the highest yield with over 35 tons per hectare. Other varieties such as 'Federica', 'Babygold 6', and 'Babygold 7' were also superior with over 25 tons of fruit per hectare. Based on their good yield, fruit weight, and fruit quality, the varieties 'Suncrest', 'Federica', 'DixiRed', 'Domiziana', 'J.H. Hale', 'Amipsimidia', 'Alberta', 'Spring Crest', and 'Anjiry' were found to be suitable for fresh consumption. For industrial purposes, the use of the varieties 'Babygold 7', 'Babygold 6', and 'Sudanl' was found to be appropriate due to their fruit quality and very high yield. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the selection of suitable peach varieties for cultivation in Iran, considering both fresh market and industrial processing applications. The findings can guide farmers and policymakers in optimizing peach production and enhancing the competitiveness of the Iranian fruit industry.

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Research Paper - Breeding of Fruit Trees Crops

Morphological evaluation of some Caprifig accessions in South Khorasan Razavi

Mohammad Hasan Bagheri; Mahdi علیزاده; Moslem Jafari; Esmaeil Seifi; khalil Zaynali Nezhad

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 28 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46624.2160

Abstract

Introduction Figs are one of the fruit trees that were domesticated earlier than other plants, and fig cultivation in Turkey was long before the cultivation of other plants by humans. ... Read More Introduction Figs are one of the fruit trees that were domesticated earlier than other plants, and fig cultivation in Turkey was long before the cultivation of other plants by humans. According to the history of fig cultivation, it can be said that this plant is one of the first fruit trees that humans have attempted selection technique for its breeding. According to the researchers, the diversity of the population under selection guarantees the achievement of desirable results in the breed-specific programs. The first step for any reeding program is to know the existing accessions in the region and get to know their breeding potentials. In most regions of Iran, fig trees are seen as feral wild species. Regarding the study and identification of wild figs in Iran, several studies have been taken. Most of these actions have taken place in Fars province. So far, no report has been published regarding the study of figs in the southern regions of Khorasan-e- Razavi, which is considered one of the natural habitats of figs. In this research, the caprifigs widespread in these areas have been studied. Materials and methods In this research, morphological evaluation of 10 accessions of figs in the south Khorasan-e-Razavi was done and compared with two commercial cultivars of Estehban Fars. The location of the sampling sites was in a wide range of areas in the south of Khorasan-e-Razavi (from the southernmost village of Gonabad to Bardskan). To evaluate the morphological characteristics, the IPGRI international descriptor and also the national guidelines for tests of differentiation, uniformity and stability in figs (Institute of Registration and Certification of Seeds and Seedlings of Iran) were used. For this purpose, leaf vegetative characteristics and some special characteristics of figs were measured. The measurements were carried out according to the type of trait in late spring and mid-summer. This research was carried out in the form of a nest design with 3 replications. In each repetition, 5 measurement samples and its average data were used. For data analysis, SAS ver 9.4 software was used for cluster analysis using UPGMA algorithm and based on Euclidean morphological distance, as well as NTSYS ver 2.0.1.5 software was used for cluster drawing. Results and disscussion The results showed that there is a significant difference between the morphological characteristics of the studied fig masses. principle component analyses in quantitative traits showed that the eigenvalue is greater than one in nine factors. Examining the analysis results with factors in quantitative traits showed that only the first three factors alone can justify more than 92% of the variation. Also, the analyses into main factors in qualitative traits showed that the number of 12 factors, their eigenvalue is more than one, and the first six factors explain more than 93% of the variation. Cluster analysis showed that all investigated masses are placed in three groups. The first group included the Branjirs of Estehban Fars. The second group included only Pechek and Bejestan figs, and other figs were included in the third group. Conclusion Collecting and determining the characteristics of germplasm is the most important stage of fruit tree breeding programs. Iran is considsered as one of the important centers of plant genetic reserves and is one of the primary origins of Figs. The results of this research showed the extraordinary diversity of caprifigs in a wide range of southern Khorasan-e-Razavi. Due to the observation of high diversity in the studied genotpes, it is suggested to evaluate these accessions from different molecular and biochemical aspects.

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Research Paper - Plant Physiology

The Effect of Sodium Nitroprusside on some Morphological and Physiological Traits of Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis L.) under Salt Stress

Saeideh Alizadeh-salteh; Aysan Nourizad Ahmedabad; Sahebali Bolandnazar; Mina Amani

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 29 September 2024

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47316.2186

Abstract

Introduction: Salinity is one of the environmental stresses that has a negative effect on the growth and development process and causes oxidative stress in plants. By creating harmful ... Read More Introduction: Salinity is one of the environmental stresses that has a negative effect on the growth and development process and causes oxidative stress in plants. By creating harmful changes in the balance of ions, water status, nutrients, stomatal function and photosynthesis efficiency, salinity causes a decrease in plant growth and development processes such as germination, seedling growth, and finally, a decrease in the amount of crop production in the plant. Sodium nitroprusside is a relatively stable gas radical that prevents the production of reactive oxygen radicals in low concentrations. It has been reported that sodium nitroprusside as a signal conducting molecule in various physiological processes such as seed germination, leaf senescence, ethylene production, stomatal closure and various defense responses to biotic and abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought and UV-B radiation is involved. Also, sodium nitroprusside plays a role in regulating various developmental processes and plant growth, including root growth, respiration, flowering, and cell death. Considering the positive effects of sodium nitroprusside on plants and the importance of evening primrose, the aim of this research was to investigate the effect of sodium nitroprusside on improving the morphological and physiological properties of evening primrose medicinal plant in adjusting salinity stress in greenhouse cultivation. Materials and methods: In the present experiment, the effect of salinity stress caused by sodium chloride at four levels (0, 4, 8, 12 dS/m) and its modification by sodium nitroprusside as foliar spraying at four concentrations of zero (control), 0.05, 0.1, 0.15 mM as sodium nitroprusside releasing compound in evening primrose was carried out factorially based on a completely randomized design in three replications in the greenhouse of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Tabriz. Salt treatment (NaCl) was applied after planting in pots and two times in the form of a solution in water and injected into the plant roots, and nitroprusside treatment was applied at four levels and with an interval of two weeks until flowering (mid-spring). It was done to the leaf. To facilitate sodium nitroprusside foliar spraying and also to increase accuracy, a sprayer was used so that foliar spraying is done uniformly on the aerial part of the plant. At first, the test of normality of the data and the uniformity of intra-treatment variances was performed and confirmed. Analysis of the variance of the data was done factorially in the form of a completely randomized design in three replications. The mean comparison of the treatments was done by Duncan's test at the probability level of 1%. SAS software (Ver. 9.3) was used for data analysis and Excel software was used for drawing graphs. Results and Discussion: In total, the results of the present experiment showed that the application of salinity treatment caused a significant decrease in fresh and dry weight of leaves, the amount of leaf area and leaf chlorophyll index, while it caused a significant increase in the percentage of ionic electrolyte leakage. The decrease in leaf area due to salt stress is either as a result of a decrease in the number of leaves due to a decrease in photosynthesis or a decrease in leaf size due to a decrease in turgor pressure. So that the highest number (47/08) was obtained in the 4 decisimons treatment and per meter and leaf area (247/95) in the control treatment. Also, the highest percentage of ionic electrolyte leakage (27.5%) was observed at a concentration of 12 deci-siemens/m, but the effect of different concentrations of salinity on the amount of antioxidant activity was not significant. The results showed that sodium nitroprusside treatment caused a significant decrease in leaf dry weight, ion electrolyte leakage percentage. On the other hand, it has caused a significant increase in dry matter percentage, leaf surface, chlorophyll index and antioxidant activity. So that the maximum amount of leaf area, chlorophyll index and antioxidant activity was obtained in the concentration of 0.15 mM sodium nitroprusside. Conclusion: Sodium nitroprusside has a useful and effective role in improving the growth characteristics and function of aerial organs and the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of evening primrose. So that the concentration of 0.15 mM was considered as the optimal concentration for improving the morphological and physiological traits.

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Research Paper

Effect of girdling time on flowering properties of olive trees in Ahvaz climate

Yahya Mansouri; Shohreh Zivdar; Esmaeil Khaleghi

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47834.2197

Abstract

Background and Objectives Olive is one of the most important fruit trees. It has special importance in the fruit production industry of Iran and the world. During the past decades, ... Read More Background and Objectives Olive is one of the most important fruit trees. It has special importance in the fruit production industry of Iran and the world. During the past decades, in Khuzestan province, like some regions of the country, many olive orchard have been stablished without considering the selection of suitable cultivars; so that after several years, olive trees have the problems in terms of flower production, such as lack of flowering, poor flowering, poor fruit set and a decrease in oil percentage. Different methods can be used to solve these problems. Girdling is one of the most important methods of bark prunning, which causes early flowering, fruiting, and increasing the tree's productivity time. Considering the role of girdling, this research was designed to investigate the effects of girdling at different times on the flowering and biochemical characteristics of three olive cultivars (Conservalia, Roghani, and Mission) with poor flower production. Materials and Methods This experiment was conducted in the olive research orchard of the Faculty of Agriculture of Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, on 20-year-old olive trees in 2022-2023. In this experiment, the effects of girdling on the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of flowers and some biochemical indicators were investigated.The statistical design was the split plots with a basic design of randomized complete blocks Cultivars (Conservalia, Roghani, Mission) as the main plot and girdling time (control without girdling, girdling in January, February and March) was considered as a sub-plot with 4 replications. Results and Discussion The results showed that girdling at all times increased the number of flowers in the inflorescence compared to the control treatment. In january girdling, the highest number of flower in the inflorescence was recorded (18.17), which was more than the number of flowers in the control (9.1). The highest number of flower in the inflorescence occurred in the Roghani cultivar (14.87). The highest percentage of complete flowers was recorded in january girdling (49.92%) and the Mission showed the highest percentage of complete flowers (45.31%). The relative water content in january girdling showed the highest value (84.49%), which was significantly higher than the relative water content in the control, february and march. The highest relative water content was recorded in Mission (72.33%). Girdling significantly increased the fresh weight of leaves in the ringed branches, but this effect was reduced from January to March. Roghani had the highest leaf dry weight (14.94 g), which was not significantly different from Mission's leaf dry weight (13.69 g), but it was significantly higher than Conservalia's dry weight. The highest amount of leaf dry weight was recorded in January girdling (17 g), which was higher than the dry weight of leaves in the control, February and March girdling.The highest amount of total soluble carbohydrates in the Roghani cultivar was obtained in June (22.23 mg/g). Girdling increased the amount of total soluble carbohydrate, but it decreased from January to March. The results showed that the number of flowers in the inflorescence, fresh and dry weight of flowers and inflorescences, the percentage of complete flowers in the branches treated with girdling, increased and the beginning of flowering was improved. Roghani and Mission cultivars showed better results regarding flowering characteristics, carbohydrates, leaf relative water content and leaf dry weight. Conclusion The immediate effect of girdling is to limit the transfer of sap flow from the leaves to the root tissue and the bottom of the plant, which accumulates sugar and plant hormones in the upper part of the wound. These accumulated materials are transferred to the growing buds and inflorescences and affect them. In general, in the present experiment, girdling improved the flowering traits and the best time of girdling is in January that recommended for olive cultivars.

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Research Paper

Effect of bulk and nanoparticle chelates of iron, zinc, and boron on chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in dryland farming: Enhancing grain yield

Mohsen Saeidi; Davood Rahimi monfared; Saeid Jalali Honarmand

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47290.2183

Abstract

Introduction: Legumes are the most important source of plant food after cereals. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important crops of the legume family, and it is planted ... Read More Introduction: Legumes are the most important source of plant food after cereals. Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important crops of the legume family, and it is planted as rainfed in semi-arid regions like most western regions of Iran. Chickpea seeds are a valuable addition to the human diet, particularly for low-income individuals, and also, are rich in protein (18-22%), unsaturated fatty acids (such as linoleic acid and oleic acid), and a good source of vitamins, such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, and folate (the natural form of vitamin B9), as well as beta-carotene (a precursor of vitamin A synthesis) and minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. In terms of total grain yield production in rainfed environments, chickpea is the third crop in Iran. The largest area under chickpea cultivation in Iran, with about 141 thousand hectares, belongs to Kermanshah province. The lack of moisture and the absorbable form of nutrients in the soil solution is one of the essential reasons for the low yield of chickpeas in Iran's rainfed fields (480 kg ha-1) compared to its global average (1057 kg ha-1). Therefore, this research aims to improve the grain yield of chickpea in the condition of improving nutrition by using iron, zinc, and boron chelates as bulk and nanoparticles. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted under rainfed conditions and at the research farm of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Campus of Razi University in 2018-2019. A randomized complete block design was implemented in three replications. Fertilizer treatments were applied in two steps at the beginning of vegetative growth and flowering as foliar application. Bulk and nanoparticle forms of iron, zinc, and boron chelates in three concentrations (2, 4, and 8 g l-1) and their combined forms and the control treatment were used. Results and Discussion: According to the soil analysis results, in the soil solution, a lack of absorbable forms of iron, zinc, and boron was observed. The results of data variance analysis showed that the effect of the type and concentration of fertilizer on the grain yield and its components was significant. All fertilizer types, except boron fertilizer, caused a significant increase in grain yield compared to the control. The highest grain yield (814 kg ha-1) compared to the control was obtained in the treatment of iron + zinc + boron and iron + zinc and bulk zinc fertilizer combination with 1196, 1108, and 1053 kg ha-1, respectively. With increasing fertilizer concentration, grain yield and biomass, 100 grain weight, number of pods plant-1, number of grain pod-1, number of grain plant-1, and plant height increased significantly compared to the control. The concentration of 8 g l-1 of all fertilizer treatments had the most positive and significant effect on the grain yield and its components. In this connection, the highest grain and biomass yield, with 1392 and 3287 kg ha-1, respectively, was seen in the concentration of 8 g l-1 of iron x zinc x boron fertilizer treatment. Conclusion: Iron and zinc nanoparticle fertilizers were not superior to their bulk form in terms of a significant increase in grain yield. However, regarding plant height increase, bulk iron and zinc fertilizers were superior to nanoparticle iron and zinc fertilizers. According to this research, iron and zinc nanoparticle fertilizers did not have a significant advantage over their bulk form in increasing chickpea grain yield in rainfed environment. According to various reports about the higher efficiency of nanoparticle fertilizers compared to their bulk form in irrigated environments, the efficiency of nanoparticle fertilizers compared to their bulk form in rainfed environments should be studied more.

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Research Paper

The effect of sodium nitroprusside and triacanthanol on the morphological and phytochemical characteristics of the medicinal plant Dracocephalum moldavica in the full bloom stage

Saeideh Alizadeh-salteh; Samaneh Khalaf Khani; parinaz ferdowsi qebchaq

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.44445.2116

Abstract

Introduction: Sodium nitroprusside and triacontanol , as plant growth regulators, improve plant growth and development and influence the production of secondary metabolites. Also, Triacontanol, ... Read More Introduction: Sodium nitroprusside and triacontanol , as plant growth regulators, improve plant growth and development and influence the production of secondary metabolites. Also, Triacontanol, as a plant growth stimulant, plays a central role in regulating many biochemical and physiological processes of plants, including photosynthesis. Dracocephalum moldavica L. is a herbaceous, annual and aromatic plant with white and blue flowers from the mint family (Lamiaceae), which is native to Central Asia but has been domesticated in Central and Eastern Europe. Considering the economic importance of Moldavian balm medicinal plant, in this research, it has been tried to investigate the effects of sodium nitroprusside and Triacontanol on the morphological changes and quantitative and qualitative performance of secondary metabolites, especially the yield of essential oil of moldavian balm medicinal plant. Materials and Methods: This investigation was conducted as a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications at the Faculty of Agriculture, Tabriz University. The studied factors include foliar spraying of three different concentrations of sodium nitroprusside (0, 0.5 and 1 mM) and tricanthanoltriethanol (0, 0.5 and 1 mM) in the flowering stage. Finally, growth traits (leaf surface and number of lateral stems), shoot yield (fresh and dry weight), essential oil yieldand percentage, biochemical traits (soluble solids, protein, flavonoid and total phenol content) and content of nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and sodium) were examined in full bloom stage. After the measurement of desired parameters, the obtained data were analyzed by SPSS software. Comparison of mean data was done using Duncan's multiple range test. All figures were drawn using Excel software. Results and Discussion: The results obtained in the present study showed that interaction of different concentrations of Tria and SNP had a significant effect on leaf area and the number of lateral branches. Also, SNP at a concentration of 1 mM caused a significant increase in the fresh and dry weight of shoots in the plant. Total soluble solids were significantly affected by different concentrations of Tria. Foliar spraying of Tria and SNP had significant effects on the nutrients content of leaf tissue and the highest increase was recorded at a concentration of 1 mM. Also, foliar spraying of SNP alone and together with Tria had a significant effect on the content of phenol, flavonoid and total soluble protein at the level of 1%, and the treatment of 1 mM SNP with 1 mM Tria caused an increase of 62.93, 51.24 and 34.92% compared to the control treatment, respectively. According to the results, the treatment of 1 mM Tria with 1 mM SNP had the greatest effect on the yield of essential oil and increased the essential oil yield of Moldavian Balm plant by 207% compared to the control treatment. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the use of sodium nitroprusside and triacantanol with the appropriate concentration had significant effects on the growth and yield of the Moldavian Balm plant, and the treatment of 1mM triacantanol + 1mM sodium nitroprusside was introduced as the optimal treatment in this study.

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Research Paper - Plant Breeding

Identification of superior bread wheat genotypes using composite indices for cultivation in warm regions

Ali reza askari kelestani; Seyed Mahmoud Tabib Ghaffary; Hassan Zali; Mohsen Esmaeilzadeh Moghadam

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.46831.2163

Abstract

Abstract Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a socioeconomically important crop in Iran. Improving genetic gain of quantitative traits through selection is at the core of every successful ... Read More Abstract Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a socioeconomically important crop in Iran. Improving genetic gain of quantitative traits through selection is at the core of every successful breeding program. Identification of high-yielding genotypes with high desirable growth traits is one of the most important goals in barley breeding programs. However, the aim of the present study was to select bread wheat superior genotypes based on grain yield and some morpho-phenological traits and finally to compare different indicators using selection index of ideal genotype (SIIG), multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI) and ideotype design via best linear unbiased prediction (FAI-BLUP). Materials and methods To identify superior genotypes of bread wheat for cultivation in the warm and dry conditions in the southern regions in the Fars province (Darab) and Safiabad-Dezful, an experiment was carried out in the cropping year of 2022-2023 as an augment design with 6 incomplete blocks and three control Sarang, Mehrgan and Barat. plant height (PLH), number of days to heading (DHE), number of days to maturity (DMA), thousand kernel weight (TKW), seed filling rate (SFR), seed filling period (SFP) and grain yield (YLD) were determined. The genetic parameters were estimated using the restricted maximum likelihood (REML). After collecting experimental data, statistical analyses were computed using SAS and R softwares. Results and Discussion The results of the likelihood ratio test (LRT) showed that the genotype effect was significant at the 1% probability level for PLH, DHE, DMA, SFR, SFP and YLD (except TKW). The values of heritability for all measured were, so that the highest and lowest values were estimated for the PLH (0.879) and SFR (0.124), respectively. These results and the heat map of traits, reveal the existence of a genetic diversity among the wheat genotypes. Also, the general heritability of genotypes varied from 0.124 (SFP) to 0.879 (PLH). In Darab region, SIIG index was superior and in Dezful region and the average of two regions, FAI-BLUP index was superior to other indices. The FAI-BLUP selection index has been used on average in Darab, Dezful, and the average of the two regions to select genotypes with a higher number of desired traits through differential selection. In addition to differential selection, the correlation between traits with these indices has shown that the FAI-BLUP selection index had a significant correlation with a greater number of traits compared to the other two selection indices. In Darab, SIIG index introduced G5, G36 and G42 genotypes as supeior genotypes. In Dezful, the FAI-BLUP index introduced the G26, G30 and G37 genotypes as the best genotypes and for the average of the two regions, the G30, G35 and G36 genotypes were introduced as best genotypes using the FAI-BLUP index. Conclusion In general, the results of different indices showed that in the conditions of this study, FAI-BLUP index was superior to other indices. Finally, the results of the two-dimensional graph of the selection indices and grain yield showed that genotypes G50, G52, and G60 can be considered as the superior genotypes for cultivation in bread wheat preliminary experiments in Darab and Dezful regions.

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Research Paper

The effect of plant density on agronomic and physiological traits of different corn lines in the north of Khuzestan province

Gholamhosein Eslamnia; Mohammad Reza Moradi Telavat; SeyedAtaollah Siadat; Khalil Alami-Saeid; Ali akbar Saneinejad

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47210.2179

Abstract

Fodder corn varieties are divided into three classes including: I. early varieties with a life period of less than 85 days, II. medium varieties with a life period between 85-135 days ... Read More Fodder corn varieties are divided into three classes including: I. early varieties with a life period of less than 85 days, II. medium varieties with a life period between 85-135 days and late varieties with a life period of more than 135 days. Optimum planting density is one of the important factors to achieve the highest yield according to the climatic conditions of each region and especially the cultivated cultivars..Commercial varieties of corn for cultivation in different regions of the world for the production of seeds and fodder include hybrid varieties that are supplied annually by seed production companies for planting in farmers' fields. Therefore, investigating the growth, performance and physiological adaptation characteristics of corn lines in different management and agricultural conditions can lead to the identification of optimal management of the desired lines for the production of corn hybrids. Therefore, in order to investigate the ecophysiological responses of different corn lines to the planting density in the north of Khuzestan, an experiment was conducted in the summer of 2018 and 2019 at the Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Training Center in Safiabad, Dezful, Khuzestan province. This research was conducted as a two-factor factorial experiment in the basic design of randomized complete blocks with three replications. In this experiment, plant density (60, 78 and 110 thousand plants per hectare) as the first factor in the main plots and genotypes (lines SD-95-11, C3-95-5, C3-95-15, C4-95-2, C4-95-3 and control line MO17) were investigated as the second factor in the sub-plots. The examined traits included leaf area index, leaf specific area, leaf chlorophyll, plant height, yield and yield components, harvest index, and biological yield. The results showed a significant difference between corn lines in response to plant density per unit area of the field. According to the comparison results, the highest seed yield was observed at a density of 110 thousand plants per hectare and line 103 (2115 kg per hectare) and the lowest seed yield was observed at a density of 60 thousand plants per hectare and line 119 (1030 kg per hectare). The results of the statistical analysis obtained from this research showed that the density of 110 thousand plants per hectare in most of the measured traits had the highest value of that trait and was the best planting density for the tested lines. Among the morphological traits affecting plant growth, specific leaf area showed a positive and significant correlation with biological performance and grain yield. Also, line number 103 was selected as the best line that can be used in the corn improvement program in hot and dry regions of the country. Achieving the appropriate density in corn lines can be very important for individuals or companies that are active in the field of seed production, because in this field pure maternal and paternal lines are used. On the other hand, among the 6 lines used, line number 103 was selected as the best line that can be used in the corn improvement program in hot and dry regions of the country.

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Research Paper - Medicinal Aromatic Plants

Effects of different levels of humic acid and limitation in irrigation on the growth and functional characteristics of the medicinal plant Lallemantia iberica L.

Masoud Fattahi; Akbar Saljoghi

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47380.2190

Abstract

Introduction Humic acid is a principal component of humic substances, which increasing cell membrane permeability, increasing photosynthesis and respiration rates, enhancing mineral ... Read More Introduction Humic acid is a principal component of humic substances, which increasing cell membrane permeability, increasing photosynthesis and respiration rates, enhancing mineral uptake and enhancing protein synthesis. The effects of Humic acid on the physiological and photosynthetic characteristics of plants under drought stress have been, including the growth parameters, osmotic regulation, antioxidase activity (such as the superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) and photosynthesis parameters. Also, drought stress is one of the most important abiotic stresses that adversely influences the growth and production of crops and disturbs plant water relationships, reducing leaf size, root growth and root multiplication. Plants exhibit various physiological and biochemical responses to drought stress at cellular and whole organism levels. The results of some study indicated that the appropriate concentration of humic acid could effectively alleviate the damage of drought stress on plants. Materials and Methods In order to investigate the effect of drought stress on germination characteristics, as well as the effect of different levels of humic acid and water deficit on some characteristics of the medicinal plant of lallemantia, two experiments were conducted. In the first experiment, the characteristics of germination of lallemantia under the influence of five levels of drought stress including 0 potential, -0.4, -0.8, -1.2 and -1.6 MPa in the form of a completely randomized design with 4 replications in the laboratory of the Faculty of Agriculture Shahrekord University was evaluated. In the second experiment, in order to investigate the different levels of humic acid and water deficit stress on some characteristics of the lallemantia, a field experiment was conducted in the form of a split plot in the form of a completely randomized block design in three replications. The treatments included four irrigation levels of 50, 70, 90 and 110 mm evaporation, from the evaporation pan surface as the main factor and four humic acid levels of 0, 5, 10 and 15 liters per hectare as secondary factors. Results and Discussion The results showed that the percentage and speed of germination and fresh weight of lallemantia seedlings decreased due to drought stress levels and the root length increased. Also, in the results of the field experiment, it was observed that the number of flowers, inflorescences, seeds per plant, seed yield, and the amount of biomass were affected by the simple effects of drought stress and humic acid treatments, and drought stress decreased them, while the use of humic acid increased them. As a result of drought stress, the percentage of mucilage increased and the yield of essential oil decreased. Also, the use of humic acid increased the yield of essential oil compared to the control. In general, the use of humic acid, especially at a concentration of 15 liters per hectare, increased the seed yield and the medicinal properties of the lallemantia plant. In general, the use of humic acid, especially at a concentration of 15 liters per hectare, increased the seed yield and the medicinal properties of the lallemantia plant. Conclusion humic acid is an alicyclic ring, and a hydrophilic group, such as a carboxyl group, a hydroxyl group, or a carbonyl group is bonded to enhance the water retention of the plant. Humic acid can be used directly on plants at low concentrations to enhance plant growth, yield and nutrient uptake, thus constituting a popular category of plant biostimulants. Our findings further illustrated that humic acid can relieve the damage of drought stress because humic acid also has the effect of stabilizing the plasma membrane system by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and participating in cell osmotic regulation. Our findings may help to elucidate of the effects of humic acid on lallemantia plant under drought stress and provide substantial guidance for the use of humic acid in agricultural production.

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Research Paper - Legume

Effect of silicates and their dissolving bacteria on growth and yield of guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.)

Samira Karami

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47097.2176

Abstract

Introduction Guar can form a symbiotic relationship with some strains of bradyrhizobium bacteria but in a weak way. Therefore, achieving a stronger symbiosis in the guar is important. ... Read More Introduction Guar can form a symbiotic relationship with some strains of bradyrhizobium bacteria but in a weak way. Therefore, achieving a stronger symbiosis in the guar is important. Previous studies in some legumes, which do not include guar, show that the legume-bacterium symbiosis can be improved by applying silicates in the soil due to the uptake of silicon, which results in an improved yield. Since the production of silicates is expensive in the industry, recently, some studies focused on the ability of silicate-dissolving bacteria to dissolve silicates present or applied in the soil. Previous studies in some crops show that the soil inoculated with silicate-dissolving bacteria dissolves silicates present and used in the soil, resulting in an improved yield due to the better uptake of silicon and even other nutrients. The present study aimed to investigate the affectability of guar-bacterium symbiosis from soil application of various silicates (Na2SiO3, K2SiO3, Ca2SiO3, and Mg2SiO3) and soil inoculation with silicate-dissolving bacteria. Materials and Methods A pot experiment was performed on the campus of Bu-Ali Sina University in 2022 as a two-factor factorial (2×5) based on a completely randomized design with 10 replications. The first factor included the silicate type in five levels: control, Na2SiO3, K2SiO3, Ca2SiO3, and Mg2SiO3. Silicates were used at 100 mg/kg of soil. The second factor included soil inoculation with a commercial silicate-dissolving bacteria in two levels: 0 and 10 ml/kg of soil. Sixty days after planting, plants of half replications were harvested to measure shoot and root dry weight, nodule number and dry weight, shoot and root nitrogen content, and shoot silicon content. When 80% of the pods turned brown, plants of the other half replications were harvested to measure 100-seed weight, seed yield per plant, and seed gum content. Results and Discussion Based on our observations, guar seedlings grew faster in the pots treated with silicates. Except for seed gum content, other traits were affected by simple and interaction effects between factors. When silicates were not used, the root dry weight and 100-seed weight of guar were not affected by silicate-dissolving bacteria. While it increased the nodule number (34%), nodule dry weight (75%), shoot dry weight (42%), silicon content (16%), shoot nitrogen content (15%), root nitrogen content (41%), and seed yield per plant (25%). When the soil was not inoculated with silicate-dissolving bacteria, the application of all silicates significantly and equally increased silicon content in the guar’s shoot. Also, the co-combined application of silicates and silicate-dissolving bacteria resulted in greater silicon content in guar’s shoot. The highest silicon content (550.1 mg/kg of dry weight) was observed with K2SiO3 + silicate-dissolving bacteria. Conclusion The existence of a synergistic effect of the use of silicates and their dissolving bacteria on the investigated traits of guar was observed, which can cause more effective use of silicates in farms. Although the application of silicates and their dissolving bacteria did not affect the seed gum content, the result of increasing the seed yield per plant is the increase in gum production per plant.

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Research Paper

The effect of 24-Epibrassinolide foliar application on enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense system and yield of pinto beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Pinto) under Low irrigation stress

Sulmaz Samfar; Hojatollah Latifmanesh; ali Moradi; Hamid Alahdadi; Amin Mirshekari

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47285.2184

Abstract

Introduction: Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are among the most valuable and strategic legumes, both in Iran and globally, primarily due to their high protein content and nutritional ... Read More Introduction: Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are among the most valuable and strategic legumes, both in Iran and globally, primarily due to their high protein content and nutritional benefits. In recent years, the growing global demand for protein-rich foods has further underscored the importance of bean cultivation. However, the economic consequences of the water shortage crisis present significant challenges to food production and security worldwide. This issue is particularly critical in Iran, where the geographical landscape is situated along the global desert belt, resulting in limited rainfall—less than one-third of the worldwide average. As water scarcity intensifies, it becomes essential to explore sustainable agricultural practices that can enhance crop resilience and yield. Brassinosteroids, a group of plant growth regulators, have emerged as a promising solution. These compounds positively influence the physiological activities of crops, improving their growth characteristics and enabling better responses to environmental stresses, such as drought. Moreover, research has shown that brassinosteroids can directly correlate with increased plant yield, making them a valuable tool for farmers. This study aims to evaluate the effects of foliar application of brassinolide hormone under low irrigation conditions on various physiological characteristics and grain yield of pinto beans. By examining these relationships, we hope to provide insights that could lead to more sustainable bean production practices in arid regions. Materials and methods: This study aimed to examine certain physiological parameters and the potential for increasing seed yield in common beans through the application of 24-epibrassinolide under low irrigation stress conditions. The experiment was conducted using a split-plot design within a randomized complete block design with three replications, in a farm located in eastern Shiraz during the 2022 growing season. The irrigation regime was applied at three levels: full irrigation (100% of the moisture requirement) and low irrigation stress at 80% and 60% of the moisture requirement, as the main factor. Four concentrations of 24-epibrassinolide, including control (distilled water), 0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 mg per liter, were applied as the subplot factor. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that both low irrigation stress and the application of 24-epibrassinolide had significant effects on all traits examined. Applying 24-epibrassinolide at a concentration of 0.2 mg per liter led to increases in the chlorophyll index and relative water content of the leaves by 7.42% and 11.77%, respectively, compared to the control treatment (without the hormone). Significant interactions between the irrigation regime and hormone application were observed, where at the 60% and 80% moisture requirement levels, the application of 0.2 mg per liter of 24-epibrassinolide increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase by 172%, 105%, and 0.35% and by 131%, 115%, and 0.45%, respectively, compared to the control. Similarly, the highest concentration of the hormone at 100%, 80%, and 60% of the water requirement resulted in increases in seed yield by 72.38%, 56.02%, and 44.35%, respectively, compared to the control. Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, the application of 24-epibrassinolide at a concentration of 0.2 mg per liter is recommended as an effective strategy to reduce reactive oxygen species, prevent cell wall damage, and minimize macromolecule degradation. This approach ultimately leads to improved seed yield in beans, even under varying irrigation conditions, including both full and low irrigation scenarios (60% and 80% of the plants' water requirements). By mitigating the adverse effects of water stress, this treatment offers a promising solution for enhancing bean production in water-scarce environment

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Research Paper

Evaluation of seed germination, visual quality, and morpho-physiological characteristics of several turfgrasses native to Iran

Sahar Mirzaei; Somayeh Esmaeili

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47889.2202

Abstract

Introduction Native turfgrasses are highly important and valuable due to their higher tolerance to environmental stresses and the need for low maintenance, and after establishment, ... Read More Introduction Native turfgrasses are highly important and valuable due to their higher tolerance to environmental stresses and the need for low maintenance, and after establishment, they need less irrigation and fertilization than imported species. Turf grass species with low maintenance ability and at the same time maintaining acceptable quality by reducing management costs, especially mowing and adverse environmental effects, have been receiving more attention from lawn managers today. The primary aim of this study is to assess eight native turfgrass genotypes based on seed germination, visual quality, morpho-physiological traits, and tolerance to wear. Furthermore, the final goal is to identify top-performing genotypes that match breeding objectives, facilitating the development of advanced turfgrass cultivars that can replace foreign varieties. These innovative cultivars are meant to be showcased to urban green space managers and suburban planners as acclimated alternatives. Materials and Methods Eight native turfgrass species including (Lolium perenne, Festuca arundinaceae, F. ovina, F. rubra, Agropyron cristatum, A. intermedium, Poa pratensis and P. trivialis) are collected from from different areas of Iran. The seed germination indices, establishment speed, visual quality, growth characteristics and chlorophyll content were evaluated. Seed germination percentage For germination, Petri dishes were used for 15 days in the germinator at a temperature of 25 ± 2 OC, 513 µmol m-2, a photoperiod of 12 h light/12 h darkness, and a relative humidity of 60%. Germination percentage and seed germination rate was done according to the method (Maguire, 1968). For measuring the height, samples were taken from each experimental unit and the height of the grass was measured with a ruler during the experiment. In order to measure tillering, samples were taken from each experimental unit and the number of tillers created in each plant during the experiment was counted. Among the genotypes in question, the appearance quality was measured by the observation method with scoring from 1 to 9 based on color, density, and uniformity, where the number 1 represents the worst and the number 9 represents the best quality (Morris and Sheerman, 2000). Artificial footing is done periodically on half of each main plot by a footing tension device. The amount of stress applied by the simulator is equivalent to the injuries caused by playing three football matches on grass per week (Canaway, 1976). Then, the wet and dry weight of the grass was measured using a digital scale. The amount of chlorophyll (mg of chlorophyll per gram of plant tissue) was calculated by the method of (Maxwell and Johnson, 2000). Comparison of data values was also done using Duncan's multi-range test and as a result 5% and 1% probability using SAS9.2 software. Results and Discussion The results showed that L. perenne turfgrass genotype showed the highest rates in terms of seed indices such as germination percentage and seed germination rate compared to other genotypes. In addition, in terms of visual quality, height, tillering, shoot fresh and dry weight and chlorophyll content, compared to other genotypes, it showed higher scores and values. Although there was no significant difference with the native genotype of F. arundinacea in most of the measured characteristics. In addition, Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis showed that there is a strong and positive correlation between seed germination rate and all measured characteristics (r≥0.94). This indicates that, in addition to the quantitative traits, the qualitative traits of the seed are also important in the establishment rate, visual quality, amount of chlorophyll and other growth characteristics in turfgrasses. Conclusion It can be concluded that the native turfgrasses of L. perenne and F. arundinaceae can replace foreign turfgrasses and be used in urban green spaces. Also, other studied turfgrasses such as Agropyron spp. are recommended in suburban spaces and low-maintenance environments. Overall, the findings indicate that Iran has the capacity to enhance turfgrass germplasm resources, develop breeding programs, and cultivate compatible varieties by leveraging promising local turfgrass genotypes.

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Research Paper - Horticulture

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

Introduction Biostimulants, such as amino acids and nitrogen-containing compounds, play a vital role in the biochemical and physiological processes of plants. These molecules serve ... Read More Introduction Biostimulants, 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 Methods This 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 Discussion The 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. Conclusion The 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.

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Research Paper - Tissue Culture

Investigation of the concentration and composition of various phytohormones in the efficiency of micropropagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni

Atefeh Amini Neisiani; Abbas Saidi; Masoud Tohidfar

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

https://doi.org/10.22055/ppd.2024.47365.2187

Abstract

Introduction Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a medicinal plant commercially used as a non-caloric sweetener for diabetic patients. However, the seeds of Stevia are small, infertile, and ... Read More Introduction Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a medicinal plant commercially used as a non-caloric sweetener for diabetic patients. However, the seeds of Stevia are small, infertile, and exhibit a relatively low germination rate. Cross-pollination in this plant, combined with the variability in steviol glycoside content and morphological characteristics (such as leaf shape and color), leads to high diversity among the plants grown from seeds. Consequently, asexual propagation methods are vital for the effective cultivation of this plant. Micropropagation not only enhances growth and reproduction rates but also preserves genetic resources. It allows for the creation of a genetically homogeneous population with high yields of steviol glycosides, making it a suitable method for the propagation of Stevia. This study aims to optimize a micropropagation method for Stevia rebaudiana and to investigate the effects of various growth regulators on this plant. Materials and Methods In this study, the germination rate of Stevia seeds was calculated at four and eight days after sowing in MS culture medium. Shoot induction was assessed using three hormonal combinations: kinetin (KIN), gibberellic acid (GA3), and benzylaminopurine (BAP). Following shoot induction, the samples were evaluated for rooting using three different auxin hormones: naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). The acclimatization of the samples was conducted after rooting. Results and Discussion The germination rate of Stevia seeds was found to be 33.38%. The highest number of leaves and lateral branches were observed in the treatment with 0.5 mg/L BAP and 2 mg/L KIN. The maximum fresh weight (437.29 g) and shoot length (15.38 cm) were obtained in the treatment with 1.5 mg/L GA3 and 2 mg/L KIN. There were significant negative correlations at the 1% probability level between the number of leaves and shoot length (-0.61**), the number of leaves and fresh weight (-0.46**), the number of lateral branches and shoot length (-0.81**), and the number of lateral branches and fresh weight (-0.69**). Positive significant correlations were found between the number of leaves and the number of lateral branches (0.95**) and between shoot length and fresh weight (0.98**). The longest root was observed in the treatment with 0.5 mg/L NAA, and the highest number of roots was found in the treatment with 1 mg/L IBA. The study highlights the effectiveness of using specific combinations of growth regulators for the micropropagation of Stevia rebaudiana. The findings indicate that the hormonal treatments significantly affect various growth parameters, including leaf number, shoot length, fresh weight, and root development. The negative correlations between some traits suggest that optimizing one growth parameter might compromise. The positive correlations between other traits, such as the number of leaves and lateral branches, suggest that some growth attributes can be simultaneously enhanced. Conclusion The protocol developed in this study for the micropropagation of Stevia rebaudiana (0.5 mg/L BAP and 2 mg/L KIN for shoot proliferation, and 0.5 mg/L NAA for root induction) demonstrates superior performance in a shorter time with fewer and less diverse hormones compared to other micropropagation protocols. Therefore, it can be considered an economical and efficient protocol for the propagation of Stevia, potentially benefiting commercial cultivation and research applications.

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Indexing and Abstracting

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