Plant Productions

Research Paper - Plant Breeding

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

Ali Reza Askari kalestani; Seyed Mahmoud Tabib Ghaffary; Hassan Zali; Mohsen Esmaeilzadeh Moghadam

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 491-510

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

Abstract

Introduction Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a socioeconomically important crop in Iran. Achieving genetic gain in quantitative traits through selection is essential for successful ... Read More Introduction Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a socioeconomically important crop in Iran. Achieving genetic gain in quantitative traits through selection is essential for successful breeding programs. Identification of high-yielding genotypes with high desirable growth traits is a primary objective in wheat breeding. This study aimed to identify superior bread wheat genotypes based on grain yield and morpho-phenological traits while comparing different selection indices, including the Selection Index of Ideal Genotype (SIIG), Multi-Trait Genotype-Ideotype Distance Index (MGIDI), and ideotype design using the Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (FAI-BLUP). Materials and Methods The study was conducted during the 2022-2023 cropping season to identify superior bread wheat genotypes for warm and dry conditions in southern Iran (Darab in Fars province and Safiabad-Dezful). The experiment followed an augment design with six incomplete blocks and three control varieties: Sarang, Mehrgan, and Barat. Traits measured included plant height (PLH), days to heading (DHE), days to maturity (DMA), thousand kernel weight (TKW), seed filling rate (SFR), seed filling period (SFP), and grain yield (YLD). Genetic parameters were estimated using the Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) method. Statistical analyses were subsequently computed using SAS and R software. Results and Discussion The likelihood ratio test (LRT) revealed that genotype effects were significant at the 1% probability level for PLH, DHE, DMA, SFR, SFP, and YLD (excluding TKW). Heritability estimates varied, with the highest heritability observed for PLH (0.879) and the lowest for SFR (0.124). These findings, supported by the heat map of traits, highlighted substantial genetic diversity among the wheat genotypes. Heritability estimates across traits ranged from 0.124 (SFP) to 0.879 (PLH). For the Darab region, the SIIG index was the most effective, while in Dezful and across both regions, the FAI-BLUP index outperformed the other indices. The FAI-BLUP index demonstrated superior performance in selecting genotypes with multiple desirable traits and exhibited significant correlations with a larger number of traits compared to the other indices. In Darab, the SIIG index identified G5, G36 and G42 as superior genotypes. In Dezful, the FAI-BLUP index identified G26, G30 and G37 as the best genotypes, and for the combined regions, G30, G35 and G36 genotypes were identified as superior genotypes using the FAI-BLUP index. Conclusion Overall, the FAI-BLUP index emerged as the most effective selection tool for identifying superior bread wheat genotypes under the conditions of this study. A two-dimensional analysis of selection indices and grain yield highlighted G50, G52, and G60 as promising genotypes for preliminary trials in Darab and Dezful regions.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Akbar Aliverdi; Samira Karami

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 511-521

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

Abstract

Introduction Guar forms a weak symbiotic relationship with some strains of bradyrhizobium bacteria, making it important to strengthen this symbiosis. Research on other legumes suggests ... Read More Introduction Guar forms a weak symbiotic relationship with some strains of bradyrhizobium bacteria, making it important to strengthen this symbiosis. Research on other legumes suggests that soil application of silicates can enhance legume-bacterium symbiosis, leading to improved yields due to increased silicon uptake. However, industrial production of silicates is costly, prompting interest in silicate-dissolving bacteria, which can solubilize native or applied silicates in the soil. These bacteria have been shown to improve silicon and nutrient uptake, resulting in better plant growth and yield. This study aims to investigate the impact of soil-applied silicates (Na2SiO3, K2SiO3, Ca2SiO3, and Mg2SiO3) and silicate-dissolving bacteria on the guar-bacterium symbiosis, plant growth, and yield. Materials and Methods A pot experiment was performed at Bu-Ali Sina University in 2022 using a two-factor factorial (2×5) design in a completely randomized setup with 10 replications. The first factor included five silicate treatments: control, Na2SiO3, K2SiO3, Ca2SiO3, and Mg2SiO3 (applied at 100 mg/kg of soil). The second factor involved soil inoculation with a commercial silicate-dissolving bacterium at two levels: 0 and 10 ml/kg of soil. Sixty days after planting, half of the plants were harvested to measure shoot and root dry weight, nodule number and dry weight, shoot and root nitrogen content, and shoot silicon content. At pod maturity 80% brown pods), the remaining plants were harvested to measure 100-seed weight, seed yield per plant, and seed gum content. Results and Discussion All traits, except seed gum content, were significantly affected by the main and interaction effects of silicate application and bacterial inoculation. Without silicate application, silicate-dissolving bacteria increased: 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%). However, root dry weight and 100-seed weight were unaffected by bacterial inoculation. Without bacterial inoculation, application of any silicate significantly increased shoot silicon content. Moreover, the synergistic effect of silicates and silicate-dissolving bacteria further increased shoot silicon content. The highest silicon content (550.1 mg/kg of dry weight) was recorded with the combined application of K2SiO3 + silicate-dissolving bacteria. Although the seed gum content remained unaffected, the observed increase in seed yield per plant indicates greater gum production potential at the whole-plant level. Conclusion The synergistic interaction between silicates and silicate-dissolving bacteria enhances the efficiency of silicate use in guar cultivation. This approach holds promise for improving guar yields without affecting seed gum content. The increase in seed yield directly translates to higher gum production per plant, making this strategy beneficial for guar farming systems.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Mehdi Attar Roshan; Afrasyab Rahnama; Moosa Meskarbashee; Mohammad Reza Siahpoosh; Matthew Harrison

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 523-542

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

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 ... Read More 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. Seed 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 seed 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 seed 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 late sowing date. Data were collected on various parameters, including plant heigh, height of the first capsule, length of the capsule-bearing zone, days to the first capsule emergence, days to flowering, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, transpiration, chlorophylle index, seed yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield. Results and Discussion Significant genotypic differences were observed in phenological traits, photosynthetic parameters, and seed and oil yields across cultivars and sowing dates. Different sowing dates influenced photosynthetic properties, phenological traits, and yields of sesame cultivars in distinct ways. Changes in plant height, height of the first capsule, length of the capsule-bearing zone, days to the first capsule emergence, days to flowering, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, chlorophylle index, seed yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil content and oil yield were significant across both years. In 2021, the June 5 sowing date resulted in a significant decrease in the seed yield of Chamran, Schewin, Mohajer and, Barkat cultivars by 1%, 25%, 11 and 6%, respectively, compared to the June 20 sowing date. In contrast, the July 5 sowing date led to significant reductions in the seed yield of Mohajer and Barkat by 21% and 37%, respectively, but increased the seed yields of Chamran and Schewin by 12% and 28%, respectively. There was also genetic variation in seed and oil yield across cultivars in response to sowing dates. The Barkat and Mohajer cultivars, which had higher seed yields, showed greater yield stability across the early sowing date compared to the Schwin cultivar. Conclusion Overall, the results of this experiment suggest that the optimal sowing window for improving sesame production in humid tropical regions is between June 5 and June 20. Moreover, the Barkat cultivar, which exhibited the highest seed and oil yields, is recommended for both early and late sowing conditions in the Khuzestan region, alongside the Mohajer cultivar.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Sulmaz Samfar; Hojatolah Latifmanesh; Ali Moradi; Amin Mirshekari; Hamid Alahdadi

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 543-560

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

Abstract

Introduction Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are among the most valuable and strategic legumes globally and in Iran, primarily due to their high protein content and nutritional benefits. ... Read More Introduction Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are among the most valuable and strategic legumes globally and in Iran, primarily due to their high protein content and nutritional benefits. Growing global demand for protein-rich foods highlights the importance of enhancing bean production. However, water scarcity, exacerbated by Iran's location along the global desert belt and receiving less than one-third of the global average rainfall, poses significant challenges to sustainable agriculture and food security. Brassinosteroids, a class of plant growth regulators, have emerged as a promising solution to mitigate environmental stresses like drought while improving crop growth and yield. This study aims to evaluate the effects of foliar application of 24-epibrassinolide hormone on various physiological traits, enzymatic and non-enzymatic defense mechanisms, and gain yield of pinto beans under low irrigation stress. Materials and Methods A field experiment was conducted during the 2022 growing season on a farm in eastern Shiraz, using a split-plot design within a randomized complete block design with three replications. The irrigation regime was applied at three levels: full irrigation (100% of the moisture requirement) and low irrigation stress (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/L were applied as the subplot factor. The experiment aimed to assess physiological traits such as chlorophyll index, relative water content, antioxidant enzyme activity (catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase), grain yield under different irrigation and hormone treatments. Results and Discussion The results revealed that both low irrigation stress and 24-epibrassinolide application significantly influenced all measured traits. Foliar application of 0.2 mg/L 24-epibrassinolide increased the chlorophyll index and leaf relative water content by 7.42% and 11.77%, respectively, compared to the control. Significant interactions between irrigation regimes and hormone concentrations were observed. At 60% and 80% moisture levels, the 0.2 mg/L hormone treatment increased antioxidant enzyme activities as follows (compared to the control): catalase (172% (60%) and 131% (80%)), peroxidase (105% (60%) and 115% (80%)), and superoxide dismutase (0.35% (60%) and 0.45% (80%). Similarly, seed yield improved significantly with 24-epibrassinolide application. Under 100%, 80%, and 60% irrigation levels, 0.2 mg/L application resulted in yield increases of 72.38%, 56.02%, and 44.35%, respectively, compared to the control. Conclusion The application of 24-epibrassinolide at a concentration of 0.2 mg/L effectively enhances the antioxidant defense system, reduces reactive oxygen species, prevents cell wall damage, and minimizes macromolecule degradation in pinto beans. These effects contribute to improved grain yield, under both full and low irrigation conditions. This approach offers a promising solution for mitigating water stress and promoting sustainable bean production in arid and semi-arid regions.

Research Paper - Agronomy

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

Davood Rahimi Monfared; Mohsen Saeidi; Saeid Jalali Honarmand

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 561-579

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

Abstract

Introduction Legumes are a vital source of plant-based food, second only to cereals. Among them, Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) holds significant importance, particularly in semi-arid ... Read More Introduction Legumes are a vital source of plant-based food, second only to cereals. Among them, Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) holds significant importance, particularly in semi-arid regions such as western Iran, where it is primarily cultivated under rainfed conditions. Chickpea is a valuable dietary component, particularly for low-income populations, as it is rich in protein (18-22%), unsaturated fatty acids (e.g. linoleic acid and oleic acid), and a good source of vitamins, such as riboflavin, niacin, thiamin, and folate (vitamin B9), and beta-carotene (a precursor of vitamin A) and minerals including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. In terms of total grain production in rainfed environments, chickpea ranks as the third most cultivated crop in Iran. Kermanshah province, with approximately 141,000 hectares dedicated to chickpea farming, leads in cultivation area. Despite this, the average yield of rainfed chickpea fields in Iran (480 kg/ha) lags significantly behind the global average (1,057 kg/ha). This disparity is primarily attributed to limited soil moisture and a lack of bioavailable nutrients. This study investigates the potential of iron, zinc, and boron chelates applied in both bulk and nanoparticle forms – to enhance chickpea grain yield and address nutritional deficiencies under rainfed conditions. Materials and Methods The experiment was conducted during the 2018-2019 growing season at the Agriculture and Natural Resources Campus of Razi University under rainfed conditions. A randomized complete block design with three replications was implemented. Fertilizer treatments were applied as foliar sprays in two growth stages: the beginning of vegetative growth and flowering. Treatments included bulk and nanoparticle chelates of iron, zinc, and boron at three concentrations (2, 4, and 8 g/l), their combinations and a control. Results and Discussion Soil analysis revealed deficiencies in bioavailable iron, zinc, and boron. The analysis of variance showed that both the type and concentration of fertilizers significantly affected grain yield and its components. All treatments, except boron fertilizer, caused a significant increase in grain yield compared to the control. The highest yield (814 kg/ha) was observed with the combined application of iron+zinc+boron at 8 g/l, resulting in 1,392 kg/ha grain yield and 3,287 kg/ha biomass. Other notable results included combinations of iron + zinc + boron (1,196 kg/ha), iron + zinc (1,108 kg / ha), and bulk zinc alone (1,053 kg/ha). Increasing fertilizer concentration positively influenced plant height, the number of pods per plant, grains per pod, total grains per plant, and 100-grain weight. Among all treatments, the concentration of 8 g/l consistently yielded the most significant improvements. While nanoparticle fertilizers performed well, bulk forms of iron and zinc proved equally, if not more, effective in enhancing grain yield. However, bulk fertilizers were superior in increasing plant height. Conclusion The study concludes that while both bulk and nanoparticle fertilizers of iron and zinc improve chickpea yield under rainfed conditions, nanoparticle fertilizers did not demonstrate a clear advantage over bulk forms. However, regarding plant height increase, bulk iron and zinc fertilizers were particularly effective. Considering reports of the higher efficiency of nanoparticles in irrigated environments, further research is necessary to determine conditions where nanoparticles may outperform bulk fertilizers in rainfed systems.

Research Paper - Tissue Culture

Effect of phytohormone concentration and composition on the micropropagation efficiency of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni

Atefeh Amini Neisiani; Abbas Saidi; Masoud Tohidfar

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 581-594

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. Stevia seeds are small and infertile, and exhibit a ... Read More Introduction Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni is a medicinal plant commercially used as a non-caloric sweetener for diabetic patients. Stevia seeds are small and infertile, and exhibit a relatively low germination rate. Moreover, given the steviol glycoside content and morphological characteristics (such as leaf shape and color), cross-pollination in this plant, leads to a great deal of diversity among the plants grown from the seeds. Consequently, asexual propagation methods are vital for the effective cultivation of this plant. Micropropagation not only enhances growth and reproduction rates, it also preserves genetic resources. Furthermore, it allows for the creation of a genetically homogeneous population with high yields of steviol glycosides, which makes it a suitable method for the propagation of Stevia. The present study aims to evaluate the effects of various growth regulators on this plant, presenting an efficient protocol for commercial cultivation. Materials and Methods Stevia seed germination rates were calculated on MS medium at four and eight days post-sowing. Shoot induction was examined using combinations of kinetin (KIN), gibberellic acid (GA3), and benzylaminopurine (BAP). Subsequently, rooting experiments were conducted with three auxin hormones: naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). The acclimatization of the samples was conducted following successful rooting. Results and Discussion The germination rate of Stevia seeds was found to be 33.38%. The best shoot proliferation was achieved with 0.5 mg/L BAP and 2 mg/L KIN, producing the highest number of leaves and lateral branches. Optimal 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. Significant negative correlations were observed at the 1% probability level between leaf number and shoot length (-0.61**), leaf number and fresh weight (-0.46**), lateral branch number and shoot length (-0.81**), and lateral branch number and fresh weight (-0.69**). Significant positive correlations were found between leaf and lateral branch numbers (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 reveal the effectiveness of 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 leaf and lateral branch number, suggest that some growth attributes can be simultaneously enhanced. Conclusion The optimized protocol 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) demonstrated efficient and economical performance using fewer and less diverse hormones compared to existing micropropagation protocols. Therefore, it can be considered an optimum protocol for the propagation of Stevia, potentially benefiting commercial cultivation and research applications.

Research Paper - Pomology

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

Ehsan Alinezhad; Mehdi Hadadinejad; Kamran Ghasemi; Morteza Soleimani Aghdam

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 595-612

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

Abstract

IntroductionBlackberries are susceptible to post-harvest decay, weight loss, and wrinkling due to the absence of a protective cuticle layer, leading to a short life and challenging ... Read More IntroductionBlackberries are susceptible to post-harvest decay, weight loss, and wrinkling due to the absence of a protective cuticle layer, leading to a short life and challenging long-term storage. The present study investigates the effect of pre-harvest foliar applications of calcium and potassium compounds on the shelf life and quality of thornless blackberries.Materials and MethodsA factorial experiment was conducted in 2020 using a completely randomized design with two factors and three replications. The first factor consisted of nutritional treatments applied at the fruit-set stage at five levels: (1) control, (2) calcium nitrate (5 g/L), (3) potassium silicate (1 g/L), (4) calcium nitrate (5 g/L) + potassium silicate (1 g/L), and (5) potassium fertilizer (51-0-0, 3.5 g/L). The second factor was storage duration in cold storage (4 ͦC) at four levels (0, 6, 12 and 18 days post harvesting). Qualitative traits (weight loss percentage and fruit firmness), sensory quality (pH, soluble solids, taste index, ascorbic acid content), nutritional value (total phenol and anthocyanin), and sensory evaluation (marketability, taste, and color) were examined.Results and DiscussionThe results recorded an increase in the weight loss over the storage period with the combined treatment of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate significantly reducing water loss by day 18. This treatment also managed to maintain the highest firmness (0.21 N) during storage, whereas firmness decreased with extended storage. Fruit length and width declined with time, with the highest values obtained in the control treatment (2.107 and 1.923 centimeters, respectively). Soluble solids and taste index peaked on day 12, with the highest amounts (9 and 4.22, respectively) obtained in the potassium silicate treatment. Also, ascorbic acid content increased in the control treatment until day 6 but decreased thereafter while potassium silicate treatment significantly (P≤ 0.05) preserved vitamin C (9% retention) by day 18. The combined calcium nitrate and potassium silicate treatment resulted in the highest phenol content (74.75 mg/g gallic acid) and anthocyanin levels (189.8 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside/L) at harvest. Finally, sensory evaluation revealed a decline in fruit quality and consumer preference with extended storage, though potassium treatments were found to be most effective in maintain sensory attributes.ConclusionThe findings highlight the efficacy of pre-harvest foliar applications of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate in extending the shelf life of thornless blackberries. Additionally, these treatments improved fruit firmness, soluble solids, taste index, vitamin C content, phenol, and anthocyanin levels. The use of calcium nitrate and potassium silicate enhances the levels of phenols and anthocyanins in the fruit. Despite the natural decline in fruit quality during storage, these nutritional treatments offer a practical solution for farmers and fruit sellers to enhance product quality and prolong storage life.

Research Paper - Breeding of Fruit Trees Crops

Morphological evaluation of some Caprifig accessions in South Khorasan Razavi

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

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 613-629

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

Abstract

Introduction Figs are among the earliest domesticated fruit trees, with their cultivation in Turkey predating many other crops. Historical evidence suggests that figs were one of the ... Read More Introduction Figs are among the earliest domesticated fruit trees, with their cultivation in Turkey predating many other crops. Historical evidence suggests that figs were one of the first plants subjected to selection technique for breeding. Researchers agree that genetic diversity within a population is crucial for successful breeding programs. The first step in any breeding initiative is to identify and evaluate the existing accessions in a region and assess their potential. In many regions of Iran, wild fig trees grow ferally. While studies on wild figs in Iran have predominantly focused on the Fars province, no detailed reports exist regarding the fig populations in the southern regions of Khorasan-e-Razavi, a natural fig habitats. This study aims to evaluate the morphological characteristics of caprifigs found in these regions. Materials and Methods This study conducted a morphological evaluation of 10 fig accessions from southern Khorasan-e-Razavi, comparing them with two commercial cultivars from Estahban, Fars. Sampling locations covered a wide area, from the southernmost village of Gonabad to Bardskan. Morphological characteristics were assessed using the IPGRI international descriptor and the national guidelines for differentiation, uniformity, and stability tests for figs (Institute of Registration and Certification of Seeds and Seedlings of Iran). To this end, leaf vegetative traits and specific fig characteristics were measured in late spring and mid-summer. A nested design with three replications was used, with data derived from five samples per replication. Data analysis employed SAS version 9.4 for cluster analysis (UPGMA algorithm based on Euclidean morphological distance), as well as NTSYS version 2.0.1.5 for cluster visualization. Results and Discussion Significant differences were observed in the morphological characteristics of the studied fig accessions. Principle component analysis (PCA) of quantitative traits revealed nine factors with eigenvalues greater than one. The first three factors accounted for over 92% of the total variation. Similarly, PCA of qualitative traits identified 12 factors with eigenvalue greater than one, with the first six factors explaining more than 93% of the variation. Cluster analysis grouped the accessions into three distinct clusters. The first cluster contained the Branjirs from Estahban Fars. The second cluster comprised only the Pechek and Bejestan accessions, while the remaining accessions formed the third cluster. Conclusion Characterization and collection of germplasm are critical stages in fruit tree breeding programs. Iran, recognized as a significant center of plant genetic resources and a primary origin of figs, offers diverse fig populations. This study highlights the extraordinary diversity of caprifigs in southern Khorasan-e-Razavi. Given the observed diversity, further evaluation of these accessions from molecular and biochemical perspectives is recommended.

Research Paper - Pomology

Evaluation of quantitative and qualitative traits of peach cultivars under climatic conditions of Kermanshah province

Isa Arji; Mohammad Gerdakaneh; Ali Imani; Rahmatollah Gholami

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 631-646

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

Abstract

Introduction Peach is among the most important fruit trees cultivated in Iran since ancient times. Thus, evaluating adaptability and identifying optimal peach varieties is crucial ... Read More Introduction Peach is among the most important fruit trees cultivated in Iran since ancient times. Thus, evaluating adaptability and identifying optimal peach varieties is crucial for its cultivation expansion. 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 as well as disease and pest resistance. Understanding these factors is crucial for the successful introduction of 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 The present study was conducted with 15 peach varieties to evaluate their adaptability for a period of three years starting from 2016 at Urban Orchard Research Station in Kermanshah Province. The trees were planted Within a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications Spaced 4*4 m apart in March 2014 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, the total number of fruits on each tree was recorded. 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 indicated the malic acid content per 100 g of fruit, which is the predominant acid in peach and nectarine fruits. The collected data were analyzed using the MSTATC software, and mean comparisons were performed using Duncan's multiple range test. Results and Discussion The results revealed significant differences between the varieties under study 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 enjoyed 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 varieties 'Babygold 7', 'Babygold 6', and 'Sudanl' were found to be appropriate due to their fruit quality and very high yield. As the results indicate, the yield rate increased as the peach trees aged. Moreover, the yield was recorded to be very high in some cultivars at the age of five, yet lower in some cultivars due to genetic differences or in response to the observed environmental conditions. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the selection of suitable peach varieties for cultivation in Iran, considering both fresh market and industrial process applications. The findings can guide farmers and policymakers in optimizing peach production and enhancing the competitiveness of the Iranian fruit industry.

Research Paper - Pomology

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

Yahya Mansouri; Shohreh Zivdar; Esmaeil Khaleghi

Volume 47, Issue 4 , January 2025, Pages 647-661

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

Abstract

IntroductionOlive trees are among the most important fruit crops globally, with particular importance in both the Iranian and international fruit production industries. During the past ... Read More IntroductionOlive trees are among the most important fruit crops globally, with particular importance in both the Iranian and international fruit production industries. During the past decades, in Khuzestan province, like in several other regions, many olive orchards were established without considering the selection of suitable cultivars. As a result, these trees face various issues related to flower production, such as insufficient flowering, poor fruit set, and a decrease in oil content. Several methods can address these challenges, with girdling be one of the most effective. Girdling, a method of bark pruning, encourages early flowering and fruiting, thereby enhancing the tree's productivity. This research aimed to investigate the effects of girdling at different times on the flowering and biochemical characteristics of three olive cultivars (Conservalia, Roghani, and Mission), which are known for poor flower production.Materials and MethodsThis experiment was conducted at the olive research orchard of the Faculty of Agriculture at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, using 20-year-old olive trees during the 2022-2023 growing season. The study investigated the effects of girdling on the quantitative and qualitative aspects of flower production as well as certain biochemical indicators. The experiment followed a split-plot design within a randomized complete block design, with four replications. The main plots included three olive cultivars (Conservalia, Roghani, and Mission), and the sub-plots consisted of four girdling treatments: control (no girdling), and girdling conducted in January, February and March.Results and DiscussionThe results revealed that girdling at all times increased the number of flowers per inflorescence compared to the control treatment. The highest number of flower in the inflorescence was observed with January girdling (18.17), which was more than double the control (9.1). The Roghani cultivar produced the highest average flower count per inflorescence (14.87). January girdling also resulted in the highest percentage of complete flowers (49.92%), with the Mission cultivar showing the highest percentage of complete flowers (45.31%). The relative water content in leaves was highest with January girdling (84.49%), significantly surpassing the control, February and March treatments. The Mission cultivar had the highest relative water content at 72.33%. Girdling significantly increased the fresh leaf weight in ringed branches, with the effect was diminishing from January to March. Roghani exhibited the highest leaf dry weight (14.94 g), which was not significantly different from Mission's leaf dry weight (13.69 g), but was significantly higher than Conservalia's dry weight. The highest leaf dry weight was recorded with January girdling (17 g), which was significantly higher than the other treatments. In terms of total soluble carbohydrates, the highest amount was observed in the Roghani cultivar in June (22.23 mg/g). Girdling increased total soluble carbohydrate content, although this effect diminished from January to March. Overall, girdling improved flowering traits, with increased numbers of flowers, fresh and dry flower weight, and a better flowering initiation. Roghani and Mission cultivars exhibited superior results in terms of flowering characteristics, carbohydrates, leaf water content, and leaf dry weight.ConclusionThe immediate effect of girdling is the restriction of sap flow from the leaves to the roots, leading to the accumulation of sugars and plant hormones in the upper part of the tree. These accumulated materials are then transferred to the growing buds and inflorescences, promoting their development. . In this experiment, girdling was shown to improve flowering characteristics, with January being the most effective time for girdling across the olive cultivars tested. Therefore, January girdling is recommended for improving flowering and productivity in olive trees in the Ahvaz region.

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Volume & Issue: Volume 47, Issue 4, January 2025, Pages 491-661

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