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.

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Volume & Issue: Volume 47, Issue 2, August 2024, Pages 161-321

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

Abstract

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

Abstract