Plant Productions

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 323-336

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

Abstract

IntroductionThyme, a plant with valuable metabolites, has been using in the food, pharmaceutical and health industries due to its medicinal properties. Identifying the agricultural ... Read More IntroductionThyme, a plant with valuable metabolites, has been using 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 is crucial for increment quality and more production. The use of chemical fertilizers has been 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 methodsThis 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 the Mahidasht research station of Kermanshah province during the two crop years 2020-2021 and 2021-2022. The main factor included three levels (20 tons per hectare Caw manure, 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). The three plants were randomly selected from each plot, plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, and canopy diameter (cm) were measured. In the flowering stage, plants of one square meter were harvested from each plot and the wet and dry weights were measured 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. The essential oil of 20 grams of dried leaves were extracted using a Clevenger apparatus, 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. Results and DiscussionAnalysis 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. All the vegetative characteristics of the plant were affected by the use of fertilizer. However, animal manure was the best among the two types of fertilizers used. 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. 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 essential oil percentage and yield. The essential oil percentage increased by 17.53% by reducing the density from 8 plants to 4 plants. Interstingly, 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. ConclusionAccording to the final goal of this research, which was to determine the best density, in terms of using manure and enriched straw to achieve the desired result in the cultivation of rainfed 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. Therefore, it can be recommended for the cultivation of this species in the rainy conditions of Kermanshah province.

Research Paper - Horticulture

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

Elham Danaee; Zahra Oraghi Ardebili

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 337-353

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

Abstract

IntroductionThere 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 IntroductionThere 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. Materials and methodsThis 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-days-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 DiscussionThe 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 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 ammonialyase (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. ConclusionThe 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.

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; Mir Reza Raeisi Sadati

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 355-372

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

Abstract

Introduction With the industrialization of societies in recent days, many toxic compounds have been released into the environment. Environmental pollution caused by heavy metals is ... Read More Introduction With the industrialization of societies in recent days, 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. Medicinal plants are important economic plants and their products are widely consumed in the world and Iran. Since cadmium is known as the main element in causing various cancers, especially digestive cancer, it is necessary and important to investigate the effects of this toxic metal on the quantitative and qualitative properties of fennel. Using nano fertilizers in soil and nutrients can be a suitable solution to reduce the adverse effects of this heavy metal. 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 included the heavy metal cadmium chloride at two levels (control and 20 mg/kg of soil) and the second factor is foliar application at three levels (control, algal extract, and selenium nanoparticle with concentrations of 2 mg/L and 20 mg/L). 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. Conclusions In general, foliar application of algal extract (concentration of 2 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.

Research Paper - Agronomy

Evaluation of wheat and rapeseed yield gap using boundary line analysis (BLA) in Khorramshahr

Hamid Matourian; Aydin Khodaei Joghan; Mohammad Reza Moradi Telavat; Seyed Ataollah Siadat; Benjamin Torabi

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 373-385

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 Decreasing the area of high-quality land, 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 Khorramshahr 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. The 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 Khorramshahr districts. Based on the available information at the agricultural 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 DiscussionUsing 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 borderline analysis. In addition, the percentage of farms that had poor management as well as wheat and rapeseed yield potential and gaps in Khorramshahr. 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..

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 387-403

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 a split plot arrangement in randomized complete block design with three replications during 2021 growing season 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 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 highest yield. In mild water deficit stress conditions, seed yield decreased by 12.83% compared to the control (optimal irrigation), while foliar application of nitrogen 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 nitrogen 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% nitrogen 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 nitrogen 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% nitrogen 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% nitrogen concentration resulted in the highest amount of oil content and chlorophyll a and b.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 405-423

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, 1000 - grain weight, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index) were measured. 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 1000- grain weight 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.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 425-440

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 yield 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.

Research Paper - Medicinal Aromatic Plants

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 441-454

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

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 ... Read More 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 included foliar spraying of calcium (zero and 4 gr/L) and the second factor included foliar spraying of selenium (zero and 4 gr/L) in the main and secondary plots, respectively, and the third factor was the application of zeolite (zero, 5 and 10 tons/ha) were placed in sub-sub-plots. In the full ripening stage, 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 showed that 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. 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 Finally, the yield of fennel essential oil was affected by the use of zeolite, selenium and silicon. In most cases, all three compounds were effective on the evaluated traits, and therefore, it can be concluded that these three compounds were effective in increasing the yield and yield components of fennel with different mechanisms. Therefore, it can be concluded that these three compounds work through different mechanisms to enhance the yield and quality of fennel essential oil, positioning them as effective tools in sustainable agriculture and the optimization of medicinal plant production.

Research Paper - Medicinal Aromatic Plants

A study on the effects of chemical and biological fertilizers on the essential oil content of sage (Salvia officinalis L.)

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 455-474

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

Abstract

Introduction The use of medicinal plants and their products has been expanded significantly in various countries. Sage, scientifically known as Salvia officinalis, is a valuable medicinal ... Read More Introduction The use of medicinal plants and their products has been 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.

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

Volume 47, Issue 3 , November 2024, Pages 475-489

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

Abstract

Introduction Legumes are the second food source after cereals, which provide almost a quarter of protein for developing countries. Lentil is recognized as one of important legumes ... Read More Introduction Legumes are the second food source after cereals, which provide almost a quarter of protein for developing countries. 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 soil data included soil depth, soil water content at wilting point, soil water content at field capacity, and saturation water content, which were obtained from different data collection in the Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural, the Natural Resources Research and Education Centers, and soil laboratories at each location and Food and Agriculture Organization and Global yield Gap Atlas.The management data such as palnt density, tillage, rows distance, and sowing depth were obtained by local experts from the Ministry of Agriculture and Agricultural and the Natural Resources Research and Education Centers at each location. 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 DiscussionAveraged 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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Volume & Issue: Volume 47, Issue 3, November 2024, Pages 323-489

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