Journal of Horticulture and Postharvest Research

Abstract Purpose: The experiment aimed to evaluate the effect and optimal dose of paclobutrazol, and appropriacy of bunch covering materials on productivity and quality of banana. Research method: This study was laid out following a randomized complete block design with four replications. The experiment consisted of two factors namely Factor A: Different doses of paclobutrazol i.e. no paclobutrazol, 1 g/L paclobutrazol and 2 g/L palobutrazol and Factor B: bunch covering i.e. control (no polythene covering), white polythene covering and blue polythene covering. Paclobutrazol was sprayed 2 times; firstly, at fruit set stage and secondly, one month after 1st spray. Findings: The treatments showed significant effect on the yield as well as qualitative traits of banana. Paclobutrazol sprayed plants performed better than non-paclobutrazol treated plants. Application of paclobutrazol (2 g/L) and blue bunch covering banana contained higher amount of sugar. However, blue and white polythene had no significant effect on color measurement of banana peel. Paclobutrazol (1g/L) and white polythene treated bunch produced the highest bunch weight (24.91 kg), pulp:peel ratio (3.57), fibre content (4.20%) while no polythene treated with no paclobutrazol produced the lowest bunch weight (16.77 kg), pulp:peel ratio (1.89), fibre content (2.60%) of banana. These results generally prove that paclobutrazol application could potentially be used to improve crop productivity and their quality value. Research limitations: There were no limitations identified. Originality/Value: Paclobutrazol (1mg/L) with white polythene as bunch covering resulted in the maximum banana production and quality when compared to other treatment combinations, without compromising of human health and environmental sustainability.

Abstract Purpose: Boron deficiency can be a limiting factor for the flowering and fruit production of olive orchards. The appropriate time for foliar spray needs to be found in each environment. Research method: Effect of foliar spray (350 mg L^-1 from boric acid) after fruit harvest (Stage 1), during flower bud differentiation (Stage 2), and the anthesis (Stage 3) alone or in combination, on fruit set percentage, leaf and inflorescence boron, zinc, and iron concentration, soluble carbohydrates content in leaves of three commercial olive cultivars was investigated. Findings: Results showed, the maximum fruit set percentage, the highest leaf and inflorescence boron content, was found in the Koroneiki cultivar when boron sprayed two times at stages 1+3 and stages 2+3. The highest leaf and inflorescence zinc content was found when boron sprayed two times at stages 2+3 on the Koroneiki cultivar. The highest leaf and inflorescence iron content was found in Baladi and Mission cultivars, respectively, when sprayed at stage 2 or two times at stages 1+3. Olive cultivar Baladi showed the highest leaf fructose, sucrose, and glucose content when boron sprayed at stage 2 alone or three times at stages 1+2+3. Research limitations: It can be useful to study different concentrations of foliar spray and other cultivars. Originality/Value: The response of different olive cultivars was not the same. It seems that boron spray at the appropriate time increased fruit set percentage, especially in Koroneiki. Therefore, more research is needed to find the best fertilization program in olive orchards of Golestan province.

Abstract Purpose: Given the rising number of novel coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) cases, the purpose of the present study was to explore saffron bioactive compounds against COVID-19 since saffron is used in fever, bronchitis, cold, respiratory disorders and is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Research method: COVID-19 engages the host cell surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) through its spike protein receptor-binding domain (RBD). The idea was to check atomistic interaction of these bioactive molecules with ACE2 for obstructing its interaction with RBD, in order to screen and assess the likelihood of these molecules for drug development. Based on ligands' molecular weight, we chose smaller bioactive molecules (picrocrocin, safranal, lutein) for interaction with cell ACE2 of the host. Findings: Flexible molecular docking followed by atomic level interaction study indicated that lutein and picrocrocin form various interactions with different amino acid residues of ACE2. In depth analysis revealed that these interactions with the majority of the residues of ACE2 could be crucial for RBD binding and, therefore, can disrupt the interaction between RBD and ACE2. The study provides a hit for further analysis using in vitro, animal models and clinical studies. Limitations: In this study dynamic approaches such as molecular dynamics and semiemperical quantum mechanical (SQM) methods have not been used. Originality/Value: By preventing the interaction of RBD with ACE2, lutein and picrocrocin may prove helpful in the development of therapeutics for COVID-19 management.

Abstract Purpose: Quality and physical characteristics of date palm changes during growth and maturation stages of fruits in main production areas in the south of Tunisia. Research Method: The effect of season, ripening date and climatic conditions (temperature and relative humidity) on physicochemical characteristics of fresh dates “Deglet Nour” grown at four different oases were evaluated using multivariate analysis. Main findings: Dates from Traditional Mountain Oases (TMO) had the highest values of length, width, weight, moisture content for the two seasons. Those from Modern Palm Plantation (MPP) had the highest values of fiber content, water activity, glucose and fructose in 2014. In 2014 and 2015, date palm fruits of Modern Continental Oases (MCO) had the highest values of sucrose. The lower values of the different parameters were registered for dates from Traditional Continental Oases (TCO). Meteorological data from the experimental station recorded higher temperature and relative humidity during fruit maturation (July, August and September) in 2014 compared to 2015. Results showed that the good quality of dates was obtained in oases TMO that had higher relative humidity and lower temperature compared to other oases (MPP, MCO, and TCO). Such changes may have resulted from earlier pollination and higher temperatures during the maturation period. Considering the two seasons 2014 and 2015, the highest thermal coefficients were observed in MCO (3726 and 3704, respectively) and the lower ones in TCO (3083 and 3025, respectively). Research limitation: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: Seasons and oases climate significantly affected the physical and biochemical quality characteristics of date palm fruits. This engendered in the longest maturity period recorded in TCO. MPP where we recorded the highest spring temperatures, showed the shorted development cycle.

Abstract Purpose: Produced tubers with inferior quality are the main bottleneck for exporting surplus amount of potato to the importing countries. Applying nitrogen as prilled and super granule urea along with biochar may improve the yield and processing quality of potato. To generalize a partial solution, the study was conducted to find out the efficiencies of N forms and biochar towards the improvement of the processing quality of potato for export. Research Method: The experiment comprised two factors. Factor A:  Nitrogen form (2): Prilled Urea (Up) and Urea Super Granule (U_S), and Factor B: Biochar level (6): B₀-Control, B₁- 2 t/ha, B₂- 4 t/ha, B₃- 6 t/ha, B₄-8 t/ha, and B₅- 10 t/ha. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Findings: Nitrogen form and/or biochar levels had shown significant influence on most of the parameters. The maximum tuber yield of potato (37.9 t ha^-1) was observed from U_sB₅ which was statistically similar to U_sB₄. The maximum dry matter content of tuber (21.8 %) and specific gravity of potato (1.098 g/ml) were observed from U_sB₄. So, it may be concluded that the application of urea super granule (U_S) plus biochar B₄ (8 t/ha) was found best combination for maintaining optimum yield and better processing quality of potato. Research limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: Application of biochar improved the soil organic carbon status (data not shown) and exhibited better potato yield and qualities. Urea super granules (USG) are much economic and environmental friendly over prilled urea.

Abstract Sixty one country bean genotypes collected from the coastal region of Bangladesh and were evaluated for the genetic divergence of yield and yield traits. Research method: Divergence analysis was performed by Mahalanobis D² statistics using Genstat 4.2 program. Findings: The results of the univariate analysis revealed that country bean genotypes differed significantly for 12 yield and related characters. Multivariate analysis grouped 61 genotypes into eight clusters. Cluster II and IV comprised the minimum number (2) of genotypes followed by V (4). Cluster VII contained the maximum number (16) of genotypes and sub-divided into five subgroups. The highest inter-genotypic distance was observed between the genotype CB-32, and CB-109 (2.238), and the lowest inter-genotypic distance between the genotypes CB-016 and CB-017 (0.252). The inter-cluster distance (D²) was maximum between cluster I and V (22.15) followed by the distance between cluster IV and V (19.21). The highest intra-cluster distance (1.17) was observed in cluster V revealed the maximum heterogeneity, while the least variation (0.60) was noticed in cluster VI signifying the closeness of the genotypes. Data suggested that the pod length, pod width, and individual pod weight were major characters that contribute mostly towards genetic divergence. Both PC1-PC2 and PC1-PC3 biplot graphs clearly indicated that pod yield per plant had strong positive correlation with raceme per plant, pods per raceme, pods per plant, pod length and hundred seed weight. Limitations: There was no significant limitation to the report. Originality/Value: The genotypes from cluster I and V could be selected for future hybridization program.

Abstract Purpose: The aims of this research were to collect reliable information about economic traits, introducing superior genotypes for production, exportation and breeding programs in new hybrids of gladiolus. Research Method: 48 promising genotypes with 4 parents of gladiolus evaluated on the basis of a randomized complete block design in three replications. The Research was conducted in Ornamental Plants Research Center in Mahallat from 2017-2018. Main findings: The results showed that the highest number of florets was observed in OPRC16 (19.0 florets) and the lowest in OPRC412, OPRC413, and OPRC99 (8.00 florets). The highest floret width of 12.00 cm was related to OPRC16 and the lowest of 7.00 cm to OPRC712. The longest spike was 71.00 cm observed in OPRC16 and the shortest was 33.00 cm observed in OPRC411. OPRC311 and OPRC61 exhibited the highest and lowest plant height of 210 and 132 cm, respectively.  It was found that the flowers of the new hybrids were almost whitish in color. It was also indicated that the diversity in the traits was mostly related to the genetic factors and the environment was less influential on them. According to the North American Gladiolus Council, the length of the cut branch (spike and branch length) of all hybrids (48 hybrids) and the parents P1, P2, and P3 were categorized in the fantasy group. The hybrids that were placed in the fantasy group in terms of the spike length were more marketable. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: The results revealed high diversity among the hybrids and parents in traits. Therefore, hybrids that are superior (fantasy group) in these commercial traits can be introduced as new cultivars.

Abstract Purpose: The evaluation of the response of three old pear cultivars (’Meski Arteb’, ‘Bouguedma’ and ‘Alexandrine’) to drought was performed through some physiological traits and leaf characteristics. This work aimed to highlight the behavior of these cultivars under water stress conditions. Research method: The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse under controlled conditions by the application of three water stress levels as a complete randomized block. Plants showed moderate water deficit after 10 days without watering and severe stress after 20 days without watering. Control plants were kept well watered. Findings: Data showed a similar cultivar response to water stress but with various degrees. The relative water content and the water potential of leaves decreased with the water stress severity in all cultivars. Stomatal conductance and photosynthetic assimilation followed the same path with water status parameters, and ‘Alexandrine’ showed the highest level of gas exchange parameters. Chlorophyll content and total soluble sugars concentration of leaves decreased in response to drought increase. However, the proline content and leaf characteristics were unaffected except for ‘Bouguedma’ cultivar for which leaf area and succulence were reduced under severe stress. Limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: the three cultivars behaved differently against drought, these traits can be exploited for further breeding programs to face climate change impact.

Abstract Purpose: Artemisia annua L., a medicinal herb of significant importance due to its high artemisinin content, a potent antimalarial compound. This study aimed to investigate the influence of various bio-chemical fertilizer combinations on the growth characteristics and artemisinin content of Artemisia annua L. Graphical analysis techniques were employed to visualize and optimize fertilizer treatments for achieving the desired balance between quantitative (biomass) and qualitative (artemisinin content) traits. Research Method: This experiment was conducted as a factorial experiment with a basic randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications in a research greenhouse. The main factors in this experiment included the application of bio-fertilizers (control, nitroxin, bio-phosphorus, and vermicompost), and the sub-factor consisted of four levels of chemical phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) fertilizers (0, N40 P40, N80 P40, and N80 P80). Findings: The results of the combined analysis for all traits revealed significant effects of bio-fertilizer and chemical fertilizer at the 5% and 1% probability levels, respectively. The interaction of treatments also exhibited significant differences for most traits. Mean comparison using LSD showed that vermicompost and N₈₀P₈₀ treatments were superior to other treatments. Correlation analysis revealed a positive and significant correlation between the traits, as evidenced by the correlation coefficients and correlation charts. Graphical analysis identified treatments Vermicompost + N₈₀P₈₀ and Nitroxin + N₈₀P₈₀ as optimal based on trait desirability. The results of the focused scatter plot analysis further confirmed Vermicompost + N₈₀P₈₀ as the most favorable treatment. The findings revealed a strong correlation among the evaluated traits. Research limitations: There was no limitation. Originality/Value: Treatments Vermicompost + N₈₀P₈₀ and Nitroxin + N₈₀P₈₀ emerged as the most favorable options based on the assessed traits, demonstrating remarkable efficacy in augmenting artemisinin levels.

Abstract Purpose: In this study, the response of Miyagawa Satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshiu) on Swingle citrumelo rootstock to calcareous soils of the east of Mazandaran in Iran was investigated. Research method: The experiment was done by seven soils with different calcium carbonate (2-45%) for two years. Findings: Soils with 14% total lime and 5% active lime had the highest shoot dry weight. Soils with 30 and 45% total lime, and 14 and 16% active lime had the highest chlorosis and soils with no lime or 3% active lime and 2 to 9% total lime had the least chlorosis. Soils with 2 and 9% total lime had the highest Fe concentration in root and the least chlorosis. Fe concentration in the roots was about 7.5 times that of the leaves, which show Fe accumulation and inactivation in the root. Mn concentration in leaves in most soils was lower than optimum, while available Mn in most soils was more than optimum (2.5 mg kg^-1). Mn concentration at the roots was about 3.2 times of that in the leaves. In contrast, although available Zn of some soils was lower than optimum, in most soils the Zn concentration of leaves was in the optimum range. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: Mn, due to low uptake and transmission efficiency from roots to shoots and severe deficiency in leaves is the most limiting microelement in this rootstock-scion combination. According to this research, Swingle citrumelo rootstock is appropriate in soils with total and active lime less than 14% and 5%, respectively.

Abstract Purpose: This experiment aimed find the relationship between morphological, physiological traits, metabolites, with SSR markers. Research method: To investigate the relationship between quantitative traits and SSR (Simple sequence repeat) markers, an experiment was conducted under both field and laboratory conditions at Zanjan University. In this experiment, 20 SSR primers were used and agronomic and physiological traits with secondary metabolites were measured during the growing season. Findings: Amplified primers generated a total of 38 bands and the average number of bands in all locus was 2.38 bands. The highest number of alleles (5 alleles) and the polymorphic information content (0.9) were for the A2 primer. The stepwise regression analysis results showed that the studied primers (10 primers) had a significant relationship with most traits and the highest R² in the first year was harvest index (79%), dry weight of stigma (69%), fresh weight of flower (62%), and yield (62%). In the second year, harvest index (67%), number of leaves (65%), number of flowers (61%), and yield (64%) had the highest coefficient of determination. The C25 and C50 primers were associated with 5 and 4 quantitative traits in 2014 and 4 and 3 quantitative traits in 2015, respectively. The C25 and C50 primers identified 2 and 3 alleles in the study population respectively, and considering the number of identified loci, it can be considered as the important primers concerning quantitative traits. The A8, A10, A48 and A2 primers were associated with at least more than 4 traits during the two years of experiment. According to the observed relationship, these marker loci can be used to select ecotypes with marker-assisted in saffron populations. Limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: C50, C25, A8, A2, and C36 primers are candidate markers in marker-assisted selection saffron breeding programs.

Abstract Purpose: The effect of foliar application of gibberellic acid and boric acid on bioactive compounds and quality of pomegranate fruit cv. Shishe-Kab was investigated. Research Method: This was accomplished through the field and laboratory experiments at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand, Iran, during 2017 and 2018 seasons. Gibberellic acid (50 and 150 mg L^-1) and Boric acid (200 and 600 mg L^-1) were applied three times at one-month interval; late in May, June, and July during growth and developmental stages of fruits. The experiment was set in a completely randomized block design. Fruits were harvested at full maturity stage late in October, and physicochemical properties were evaluated. Findings: Results showed that anthocyanin content and antioxidant activity significantly decreased while fruit firmness, ascorbic acid content, and fruit cracking increased in gibberellic acid treatments. Application of 50 mg L^-1 gibberellic acid significantly increased total soluble solids content and maturity index, but decreased titratable acidity in the fruits.However, foliar application of gibberellic acid and boric acid did not have significant effects on the pH and phenolic compounds of the fruit. Research limitations: Inability to examine different pomegranate cultivars in the investigation was a limitation. Originality/Value: Pre-harvest foliar use of gibberellic acid and boric acid showed positive and negative effects on postharvest quality attributes of Shishe-Kab pomegranate. Thus, further studies need for practical application.

Abstract Purpose: The purposes of this research were to assess important traits and heterosis and to introduce superior hybrids of Iris germanica.Research method: 28 hybrids and seven parents of Iris rhizomatous were evaluated. The experiment was carried out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at the Ornamental Plants Research Center (OPRC) from 2014 to 2018. Findings: Hybrid of oprc37 (cross of V5×V4) had a higher positive of heterosis in flower size, leaf width, and hybrid of oprc25 (V8×V6) in the inner tepal length and outer tepal width in superior parents compared to their parents. The highest heterosis was observed for the traits of peduncle length, peduncle diameter and crown diameter, respectively, in some hybrids of oprc20 (V2×V4) and oprc16 (V2×V5). Hybrids of oprc42 and oprc43 of the cross between I. spuria and I. germanica (V7×V2) in the most traits in superior parents and self-parents had higher positive of heterosis. It can be expected that these selected F1 (oprc37, oprc25, oprc20 and oprc16) to able introduced as a variety of commercial, developed on the market ornamental plants.Limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: Inter-varietal hybridization is an effective way to contribute to the phenotypic variation of Iris flowers, to produce new plant materials for breeding purposes and to release new cultivars.

Abstract Purpose: Physiologically matured fruits of Haden, Kent, Palmer, and Keitt mango varieties were used for experiment. The fruits were held at ambient (29-31 ^oC) and simulated-transit temperature (10-13 ^oC) conditions. Quality which includes fruit firmness, weight, and spoilage, were assessed and used to determine shelf life of stored fruits. Research Method: A Completely Randomized Design with four replications was used. For each of the four varieties, five mango trees were sampled at random in each of the four replications of a mango plantation when fruits were physiologically matured.  Findings: For the ambient and simulated-transit temperature conditions, Kent (4.09 days and 3.85 days, respectively) and Keitt (4.08 days and 3.92 days, respectively) fruits stored longer. Haden fruits ripened significantly earlier (9.50 days and 3.5 days, respectively) than Keitt fruits (11.01 days and 5 days, respectively). Ripening time was statistically not different among Haden, Kent, and Palmer fruits. Softness, colour, and decay were limiting quality factors for all mango fruits stored at both conditions. Higher shriveling rates were observed in Haden and Palmer fruits with a slight preponderance of the former, for both conditions. Average weight loss was highest (6.50 % and 3.31 %, respectively) for Haden and lowest (4.09 % and 2.34 %, respectively) for Keitt, but generally lower in fruits stored under transit conditions. Research limitations: No limitations to report. Originality/Value: A single quality attribute cannot be used to express loss of quality of mango fruit over the normal physiological range of mango fruit growth and development.

Abstract Purpose: Twenty genotypes of okra including hybrids and open pollinated varieties both from local and exotic sources were evaluated in the field to study their yield performance and disease response. Research method: Experiment was conducted following randomized complete block design with three replications. Findings: Analysis of variance indicates significant variation among the okra cultivars for all the characters’ studied except days to first germination. The highest number of fruits per plant (19.98) and maximum yield of green fruits per plant (279.59 g) and maximum yield (1.33 kg/m²) was obtained in the genotype G₄ (F₁-hybrid) followed by G₇ and G₁₈. The maximum edible fruit length was observed in G₇ followed by G₁₉ and G₁₅. The maximum number of seeds perfruit was recorded in G₄.The highest 100-seed weight was found in G₄ followed by G₁₇. On the contrary, the lowest seeds per fruit, 100-seed weight, and green fruit yield per plant were obtained from G₆. The highest incidence of yellow vein mosaic virus (YVMV) was observed in the genotype G₆ and the lowest in the genotype G₁₉ followed by G_8, G₂, G_4, G₁₇ andG₁₂. The cluster analysis grouped 20 genotypes into five cluster and maximum number of genotypes included in cluster 5. Strong positive correlation was observed between yield per plant and days to 50% germination, germination percentage, number of seeds per fruits and 100-seed weight (g). Limitations: No significant limitation to the report. Originality/Value: The results help to identify the suitable okra genotypes and generate breeding materials.

Abstract Purpose: Mango shelf life has significance for both market availability and long-distance transportation. So, effective treatments of postharvest are vital for maintaining the climacteric character of mangoes by limiting postharvest losses during storage. Research method: A total of 96 physiologically mature mango fruits (8 fruits in each replication) were taken. This study assessed the effect of Aloe vera gel (1:1 AVG), chitosan (1.5% CTS), and combinations (CTS+AVG) on mango shelf life and postharvest features following 16 days at ambient storage (28±3°C and 80±5% RH). The experiment was conducted using completely randomized design. Findings: The results demonstrated that either CTS or AVG had a positive effect compared to control on different parameters but their combinations was considerably superior treatment equated to the control in terms of weight loss (13.09, 20.03%), reduced respiration rate (11.22, 19.89 mlCO₂/kg/h), ethylene production (0.50, 0.56 µl/kg/h), total soluble solids (17.33, 22.23 ^oBrix), pH (5.86, 7.40) and decay percentage (13.14, 27.64%). Fruit quality metrics were all higher when CTS+AVG was used than the control, such as titratable acidity (0.66, 0.61), fruit firmness (28.61, 21.95 N/m²), ascorbic acid (14.52, 10.84 mg/100g), total phenolic content (112.99, 80.02 mg GAE/100g) and antioxidant activity (274.86, 196.65 µmol/g). Coated fruits exhibited a considerable reduction in polyphenol oxidase (PPO) (5.49, 7.87 U/mg FW), while higher levels of catalase (CAT) (0.54, 0.45 U/mg FW) and peroxidase (POD) (0.75, 0.70 U/mg FW) enzyme activity. During storage, coated fruit peels exhibited notably less discoloration than control fruits. Research limitations: In future, mechanism of CTS and AVG for prolonging shelf life of mangoes will be revealed using molecular approach. Originality/Value: These results suggest that chitosan (CTS) and Aloe vera gel (AVG) coatings combined can preserve ‘Mishribhog’ mango shelf life and postharvest quality for 16 days during ambient storage.

Abstract Purpose: A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of the mixture of different growing media (palm trunk: resulted from palm trunk only; palm tree: resulted from all palm organs; coco peat; perlite; reused coco peat) on growth and nutrient uptake of lily cut flower. Research method: Treatments including two cultivars (Tiber and Candy Club) and eleven growing media compositions were set up in a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design. Findings: The Control showed the highest leaf surface area, bulb depletion rate, and Mg content, while the higher plant height and the leaves number were observed in 40% and 80% palm trunk treatments, respectively. Furthermore, the 40% palm trunk resulting in a higher Fe content. The highest bud's number, K, Cu, and Mn content measured in Candy Club, which was cultivated on 20% palm tree treatment, that increased by an average of 10.1%, 15.8%, 67.4%, and 54.3%, respectively compared to the control. The Candy Club has grown on control showed the highest values of the reproductive organ length, N, and P concentration. The highest Ca content was obtained after the Tiber's cultivation in the 80% palm trunk. Research limitations: No limitations were founded. Originality/Value: Because of the low cost, availability, and extensive cultivation area of date palm in Iran and over the world, palm wastes has a great potential to be used as an eco-friendly horticultural substrate mixture to substitute coco peat in lily soilless culture.

Abstract Purpose: In this study, the effects of different concentrations of salicylic acid on the physiological traits of Alstroemeria (Alstroemeria hybrida cv.ʻSummer Skyʼ) cut flowers during pre-harvest and postharvest applications are investigated. The aim of this study was to identify the best treatments and methods affecting the vase life of cut Alstroemeria flowers. Research Method: The study was performed as a factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design using three replications in each combination/mixed treatment. The factors comprised of the pre-harvest foliar and post-harvest (pulsing 24h and continuous) applications of salicylic acid at two concentrations of 30, 200 ppm (SA1) and 50, 300 ppm (SA2), respectively. Findings: The vase life, chlorophylls a, b, and total, relative fresh weight, SOD activity, and the percentages of dry matter and the absorption of preservative solution were evaluated. The results showed that using high concentrations of salicylic acid (SA2) significantly increased the vase life of Alstroemeria. The pre-harvest foliar application of a 300 ppm of salicylic acid would be useful in prolonging the vase life of cut Alstroemeriaflowers and thus would help to reduce the losses caused by the rapid senescence of petals which will lead to an increase in the quality of appearance and economic value. Research limitations: There was no significant limitation to be reported. Originality/Value: The positive impact of salicylic acid (50 ppm) in the pre-harvest method (B) was found, and its application improved the vase life of cut Alstroemeria flowers, which should be taken into consideration for commercial uses.

Abstract Purpose: Micropropagation of GF677 rootstock, the most widely clonal rootstock used in peach orchards, is an important method for large-scale production of disease-free plants. In this research, effects of media, plant growth regulators and carbohydrates in order to optimize the efficient micropropagation protocol of GF677 rootstock has been investigated. Research method: In vitro shoots were multiplicated on MS, WPM and DKW media supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg L^-1 BA. Proliferated shoots were rooted on MS, WPM and DKW media containing 0, 0.5, 1, 2 mg L^-1 IBA. In another experiment, the effect of carbohydrate type was investigated. Findings: High shoot number and node number as well as shoot fresh weight were achieved with shoot tips when cultured on MS medium supplemented with 1 or 2 mg L^-1 BA. The highest percentage of rooted shoots was obtained on MS or WPM media supplemented with 1 or 2 mg L^-1 IBA. Maximum root number was regenerated on WPM medium containing 1 mg L^-1 IBA. Sorbitol was found to be more effective carbon source on shoot multiplication than sucrose, while the highest average of root number and root length were observed in the medium containing sorbitol and sucrose medium, respectively. Survival rate during the acclimatization in the greenhouse was 67%. Limitations: Plant acclimatization needs to be studied for commercial production. Originality/Value: This protocol has proven useful for micropropagation of GF677 rootstock.

Abstract Purpose: Aphanamixis polystachya (Wall.) R.N. Parker, belonging to Meliaceae family is very well known for its medicinal properties. But its allelopathic potentiality not yet has been reported. Hence, aqueous extracts of different parts of Aphanamixis polystachya were examined to investigate their allelopathic potentiality. Research Method: Different parts of A. polystachya extracts at four different concentrations (1:5, 1:10, 1:15 and 1:20 (w/v)) along with control (distilled water without extracts) were tested against jute, mungbean, mustard, radish, rice, wheat and tomato. The experiments were conducted following completely randomized design with three replicates. Findings: Among the test crop species, shoot growth of mustard was most sensitive (43% average inhibition (a.i.)) followed by radish (41% a.i.) to the extracts of different parts of A. polystachya., whereas shoot growth of tomato (14% a.i.) was less sensitive to the extracts followed by rice (25% a.i.) and mungbean (29% a.i.). Root growth of radish was most sensitive (41% a.i.) species followed by mustard (39% a.i.) and jute (36% a.i.) to the extract of different parts of A. polystachya. Root growth of mungbean (13% a.i.) was less sensitive to the extracts followed by tomato (18% a.i.) and rice (20% a.i.). Among the plant parts, leaf showed most phytotoxic activity on the shoot growth (41%) and twig on the root (40%) growth of the test plants. However, stem extract was less sensitive to both shoot and root growth of the test species. These results confirm that A. polystachyahas allelopathic properties and may possess allelochemicals. Research limitations: There was no significant limitation to the report. Originality/Value: To the best of our knowledge this is the first report about the allelopathic potential of Aphanamixis polystachya.

Abstract Purpose: This study was conducted to identify the physiological disorders and their symptoms of selected Citrus fruit species (C. sinensis, C. limon and C. crenatifolia). Furthermore, it was aimed to determine whether physicochemical and sensory properties were affected by physiological disorders. Research method: Citrus fruits with physiological disorderswere observed separately for visible changes and characters were recorded and photographed. Moreover, Citrus fruits with physiological disorders were analyzed for physicochemical and sensory properties. Findings: Many physiological disorders were recorded from three Citrus fruit species including chilling injury, sun burn, stem-end rind breakdown, oleocellosis, rind disorder, puff and crease, granulation, wind injury, peteca, fruit splitting and fruit cracking. Based on the overall result of sensory analysis, it can be concluded that most of the physiological disorders in studied Citrus species appear on the peel but not adversely affect the edible internal portion of the fruits. Physicochemical properties of C. limon are not adversely affected by physiological disorders whereas C. sinensis and C. crenatifolia are affected by physiological disorders. Limitations: Availability of selected Citrus fruit species throughout the year is limited due to their seasonality. Originality/Value: This study provides novel information about the physiological disorders of some Citrus species in Sri Lanka and other parts of Asia and a future potential exists in controlling these disorders to provide healthy and quality fruits to the market.

Abstract Purpose: Strawberry fruits are perishable with a short shelf life. Methyl jasmonate (MJ) is a well-known signaling molecule involved in the regulation of many processes in plants. Previous studies have addressed the effectiveness of pre- and postharvest MJ treatments on the quality of fruits. Therefore, in this study, the effect of pre-harvest MJ on the quality and physio-chemical traits of strawberry at harvest and during cold storage were investigated. Research Method: The effect of pre-harvest foliar spraying of MJ (0, 50, 100, and 200 μM) at three times (full flowering, production of green fruits, and the beginning of the pink stage) on quality and bioactive compounds of strawberry fruit (cv. Paros) stored at 4 °C for 12 d was studied. Findings: Our results showed that fruit obtained from MJ-treated plants had significantly higher firmness and APX enzyme activity than fruit from control plants. However, no significant differences in other traits were observed between control and MJ-treated fruits at this stage. During cold storage, MJ treatment significantly reduced firmness loss, physiological loss in weight, and ascorbic acid content compared to control fruits. In cold storage, MJ treatment reduced firmness loss and weight loss, while maintaining higher levels of titratable acidity, antioxidant compounds (ascorbic acid, anthocyanins, and phenolics), and total antioxidant activity. Furthermore, MJ treatment resulted in increased catalase and ascorbate peroxidase enzyme activity, as well as lowered guaiacol-peroxidase, total soluble solids/ titratable acidity ratio. Total soluble solids were not affected by MJ treatment at harvest and during cold storage. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: Pre-harvest application of MJ, especially 200 μM, can increase the shelf life of strawberry fruits by increasing or maintaining higher levels of bioactive compounds and antioxidant enzyme activity. 

Abstract Purpose: The present research was conducted to evaluate interactive effects of manganese (Mn) and Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) on some physiological characteristics of two pepper varieties including PS301 and California Wonder under greenhouse conditions. Research Methods: Treatments included two levels of virus infection (infected and non-infected), three levels of Mn concentrations (No manganese: 0ppm, 5ppm and 10ppm) and two varieties (California Wonder and PS301). After three weeks, total chlorophyll (Chl), carbohydrate, antioxidants, phenolic compounds, dry weight and proline were measured in aerial parts. Findings: The highest antioxidant activity observed in California Wonder treated with AMV and 5ppm Mn. The highest total Chl observed in PS301 when treated with 10 ppm Mn. Interaction between Mn and AMV showed the highest dry weight in virus infected plants without Mn supplying. Simple effects of AMV did not influence on total Chl, total carbohydrate and antioxidant, but significantly dcreased dry weight. Application of Mn significantly increased proline and carotenoid contents in infected plants. Research limitations: analysis of proteins that play important roles in resistance mechanism to plant viruses has not been measured because of restriction of accessibility of western blotting at the University of Birjand. Originality/Value: It is concluded that AMV infection could be ameliorated by manganese supplying because of improvement of antioxidant system and phenol content that lead to viral tolerance in pepper.

Abstract Purpose: Tea is one of the earliest caffeinated non-alcoholic drinks produced from the tip of young shoots. Evaluation of genetic diversity of clones that existed in tea germplasm can be a help to improve the tea breeding program. Research Method: The genetic diversity of 9 tea clones based on morphological, chemical and molecular markers were evaluated at Shahid Eftekhari Fashalam Experimental Station, Tea Research Center, Shaft, Guilan, Iran. Findings: Analysis of variance showed a significant difference between the clones for the studied traits. Descriptive statistics showed that green leaf yield had the highest phenotypic variation with CV of 56.47% and water extract showed the least phenotypic variation (4.40%). Clones 399, 285 and 100 had a significantly higher content of the number of plucking shoots, fresh and dry weight of plucking shoot and green leaf yield than other clones. Regarding the water extract, clones 272 and 100 have a significantly higher value than the other clones. Contents of polyphenols in all of clones were high except clones 276 and 278. The cluster analysis classified tea clones into three groups based on morphological and chemical traits as well as SCoT markers. Research limitations: Not using other molecular markers and biochemical traits. Originality/Value: Great variation of morphological characters was apparent among the selected clones. Based on the Mantel test, the grouping of clones with molecular data was partially corresponding with morphological and chemical traits.

Abstract Purpose: A study was conducted on the effect of single-based fertilizers and compound fertilizers on the nutritive quality potential of lettuce (var. Eden), sweet pepper (var. Yellow wonder), and carrot (var. Bahia). Research method: This was accomplished following Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. Lettuce, sweet pepper, and carrot were fertilized using 71 kg, 100 kg, and 128 kg of ammonium sulphate (20.5 % N, 23.4 % S)/ha, 350 kg of NPK (15-15-15)/ha, and Control/No fertilizer application; 81 kg, 100 kg, and 138 kg of 6-24-12 NPK/ha, 225 kg of NPK (15-15-15)/ha, and Control; and on 43 kg, 71 kg, and 100 kg of 10-10-30 NPK/ha, 225 kg of NPK (15-15-15)/ha, and Control; respectively. Findings: Compound fertilizer resulted in high Fe content in lettuce whiles Single 2 treatment was in favour of that in carrot and sweet pepper. Single 3 treatment resulted in high Ca content in lettuce and sweet pepper whiles Single 2 treatment was in favour of that in carrot. Compound fertilizer resulted in high Mg content in lettuce whiles Single 3 treatment was in favour of that in carrot and sweet pepper. Crude protein content of lettuce, carrot, and sweet pepper was significantly high in the single-based fertilizer treatments. Compound fertilizer treatments recorded high carbohydrate content for lettuce and sweet pepper. All treatments recorded high moisture and high fat content. Limitations: No limitations. Originality/Value: Proximate composition patterns were strikingly dissimilar in all test crops.