Original Article
Olericulture
Unas Parveen Tahani; Md. Liton Mia; Shishir Kanti Talukder; Mahfuza Begum; Md. Shafiqul Islam; A K M Mominul Islam; Ahmed Khairul Hasan
Abstract
Purpose: Using plant growth regulators (PGR) and nutrients in a standard way can help plants grow better. That's why we did this experiment to see how PGR and NPK fertilizer affected the growth, yield, and quality of baby corn. Research method: The split plot experiment employed plant growth regulator ...
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Purpose: Using plant growth regulators (PGR) and nutrients in a standard way can help plants grow better. That's why we did this experiment to see how PGR and NPK fertilizer affected the growth, yield, and quality of baby corn. Research method: The split plot experiment employed plant growth regulator in the main plot and NPK fertilizer in the subplot. The test had four different PGRs: control (P1), mepiquat chloride 200 ppm (P2), naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) 40 ppm (P3), and gibberellic acid (GA3) 100 ppm (P4). It also had four different NPK (Urea-TSP-MoP) fertilizer levels: 150-90-75 (F1), 180-105-90 (F2), 210-120-105 (F3), and 240-135-120 (F4) kg ha-1. Findings: From the results, the interaction effect showed that P4 in combination with F4 produced the highest yield parameters, including cob length with husk (23.11 cm), diameter with husk (3.46 cm), diameter without husk (2.95 cm), weight without husk (55.29 g), cob plant-1 (3.67), and yield without husk (4.41 t ha-1). The maximum starch (8.15%) was achieved when P2 was combined with F4, while the maximum protein (5.56%) was gained when P2 was combined with F3. Research limitations: The experiment is conducted in a single season and single location, hence multilocation and multi-years’ trial should be conducted before recommending these results to the farmers. Originality/Value: Based on the results it can be conclude that spraying GA3 100 ppm along with NPK fertilizer (240–135–120 kg ha-1) is thought to be a good way to improve baby corn growth, yield, and quality.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Md. Nazrul Islam; Md. Shahidul Islam; Md. Sorof Uddin; Mohammad Abdulla Al Noman; M. M. Mehedi Hasan; Felix Kwashie Madilo; Nitai Roy
Abstract
Purpose: Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) is a highly nutritious fruit widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, valued for its rich nutritional and medicinal properties. Despite its economic importance, limited research exists on the comparative floral biology, physicochemical characteristics, ...
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Purpose: Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) is a highly nutritious fruit widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, valued for its rich nutritional and medicinal properties. Despite its economic importance, limited research exists on the comparative floral biology, physicochemical characteristics, and post-harvest shelf life of different ber cultivars Bangladesh. Research Method: Four ber cultivars (Apple Kul, Khurma Kul, BARI Kul 5, and Gutti Kul 2) were assessed for their floral biology, physicochemical characteristics, and shelf life in 2023. Floral data, including flowering duration, male-to-female flower ratio, and fruit set per axil, were collected using randomized full block design with three replications. Physicochemical properties were measured using standardized laboratory methods such as ash, carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Findings: First flowering was recorded on September in Khurma Kul and Gutti Kul, with flowering durations ranging from 51 to 60 days. The male-to-female ratio was highest in Apple Kul (10.67), while BARI Kul 5 had more fruit sets per axil. Apple Kul and BARI Kul 5 exhibited the highest levels of ash (0.5-0.65%), carbohydrates (9.39-14.34%), total soluble solids (12.76-17.51 °Brix), and total sugars. Gutti Kul 2 had the highest vitamin C content (75.65 mg/100 g). The shelf-life evaluation revealed that Khurma Kul and Gutti Kul 2 retained their marketability the longest, while Apple Kul and BARI Kul 5 showed reduced longevity despite their superior nutrient profiles. Research Limitations: This study analyzed only four cultivars. Originality/Value: The study highlights that Apple Kul and BARI Kul 5 are promising for nutrition, while Khurma Kul and Gutti Kul 2 excel in shelf life. These findings suggest cultivar-specific strategies for ber cultivation and commercialization.
Original Article
Biotechnology and Tissue culture
Somaye Amini; Seyed Mahdi Ziaratnia; Nasim Adibpour
Abstract
Purpose: The objective of this study was to enhance the MS-based medium to maximize cell biomass obtained from saffron corm within a liquid culture system. Research Method: The initial experiment employed a factorial design to examine three key factors influencing cell biomass: total nitrogen concentrations ...
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Purpose: The objective of this study was to enhance the MS-based medium to maximize cell biomass obtained from saffron corm within a liquid culture system. Research Method: The initial experiment employed a factorial design to examine three key factors influencing cell biomass: total nitrogen concentrations (20, 40, and 60 mM), ammonium/nitrate ratios (100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100), and sucrose concentrations (3, 6 and 9%). In the second experiment, we evaluated the effect of a basal liquid MS medium enriched with L-glutamine, L-cysteine, PVP, chitosan, and KH2PO4 on cell biomass. The optimized medium from Experiment 1 was further enhanced based on the results obtained from Experiment 2 in order to increase cell biomass. Its effects were then compared to those of the standard MS medium by measuring fresh weight of cells over a six-week period in Experiment 3. Findings: Results from the initial experiment demonstrated a significant increase in cell biomass (3.37 g) when using 3% sucrose with nitrate instead of ammonium. Lowering the nitrogen concentration from 60 mM to 40 mM significantly improved cell growth. Additionally, both PVP and KH2PO4 contributed to increased saffron cell fresh weight in the second experiment. However, it was noted that even at low concentrations, chitosan application significantly enhanced cell death. The findings from the third experiment revealed that the modified MS culture medium, combined with potassium phosphate, significantly enhanced cell biomass growth compared to the standard MS medium. Research Limitations: No limitations were identified during this study. Originality/Value: This study evaluated key factors affecting cell biomass in saffron, but future research should explore the production of saffron metabolites under these influences.
Review Article
Pomology
Muhammad Muhammad; Imran Hussain; Summar Abbas Naqvi
Abstract
Purpose: Fruit species are essential for nutritional and health security, rich in micronutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Recognized as functional foods, they meet current and future dietary requirements. Traditional breeding techniques have successfully enhanced various traits, including ...
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Purpose: Fruit species are essential for nutritional and health security, rich in micronutrients, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Recognized as functional foods, they meet current and future dietary requirements. Traditional breeding techniques have successfully enhanced various traits, including quality, aroma, antioxidant content, yield, and nutritional value. However, challenges such as climate change and the need for enhanced stress resistance require innovative solutions. Findings: Biotechnology has significantly expanded the potential for the large-scale propagation of elite clones through advancements in tissue culture, mutagenesis, and genetic transformation. Cutting-edge tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9, RNA interference (RNAi), genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and smart sensors, have revolutionised the development of novel germplasms with enhanced agronomic and nutritional traits. These technologies enable precise genetic modifications in the fruit species, boosting nutritional quality and stress tolerance. Metabolic pathway engineering allows for targeted manipulation of biochemical pathways to increase bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants and vitamins. Additionally, these innovations enhance resilience to environmental stressors such as drought, salinity, and temperature extremes, ensuring stable yields. Limitations: Despite significant progress, fully harnessing the potential of biotechnological tools to improve fruit quality and nutrition remains a work in progress. Challenges, such as limited genetic resources, regulatory barriers, high costs, and variable consumer acceptance, continue to limit their widespread application. Directions for future research: Creation of novel fruit products through biotechnology underscores the potential for trait-based enhancements, thereby opening new avenues for the development of genetically superior fruit cultivars. This review highlights the extensive applications of biotechnological approaches for improving fruit quality and nutritional value, and addressing the dynamic challenges in fruit crop enhancement.
Review Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Farid Moradinezhad; Nida Firdous; Maryam Dorostkar
Abstract
Purpose: In recent years, tropical and citrus fruits have become increasingly important in global fruit production. However, postharvest fruit loss due to spoilage and decay remains a significant challenge, impacting the global food supply chain. Owing to their perishable nature, horticultural products ...
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Purpose: In recent years, tropical and citrus fruits have become increasingly important in global fruit production. However, postharvest fruit loss due to spoilage and decay remains a significant challenge, impacting the global food supply chain. Owing to their perishable nature, horticultural products can experience losses of approximately 20–40% during postharvest handling and storage. Findings: Tropical and subtropical fruits are important commodities that play a significant role in human nutrition and health. Citrus fruits, bananas, mangoes, papaya, and pineapples are among the main traded tropical and subtropical fruits worldwide. Edible coatings have emerged as a sustainable solution to extend the shelf life, improve the quality of fruits and reduce postharvest losses. They are environmentally friendly and meet consumer preferences for natural, safe, and healthy food products. The exact composition and application of these coatings are crucial for determining their ability to prevent microbial growth, reduce enzymatic browning, and maintain the sensory properties of fruits. Additionally, incorporating nanotechnology into edible coatings has the potential to enhance their properties, such as improved barrier functions, regulated release of active substances, and increased antimicrobial capabilities. Recent progress regarding the influence of edible coatings is emphasized in this review, demonstrating how they contribute to extending shelf life, maintaining quality, and minimizing postharvest losses of important tropical and citrus fresh/fresh-cut fruits on a global scale. Limitations: There were no limitations. Directions for future research: Despite their potential, challenges in production, storage, and commercial-scale usage exist, requiring continuous research and innovation. Overall, edible coatings show promise in reducing postharvest losses and promoting sustainable agricultural practices on a global scale.
Original Article
Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
Masoud Ahmadi-Afzadi; Helen Muranty; Charles-Eric Durel; Ibrahim Tahir; Hilde Nybom
Abstract
Purpose: Apple is one of the commercially most important fruits hosting a wide range of postharvest diseases that can threaten grower economy resulting in a yearly yield loss. Fungal diseases are the major problem in many countries, especially in organic culture as well as in countries with humid condition. ...
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Purpose: Apple is one of the commercially most important fruits hosting a wide range of postharvest diseases that can threaten grower economy resulting in a yearly yield loss. Fungal diseases are the major problem in many countries, especially in organic culture as well as in countries with humid condition. Among the postharvest diseases, blue mold (caused by Penicillium expansum) is one of the most important. This disease is very destructive on apple, not only due to the economic damage but also because of mycotoxin patulin production. Research method: In the present study, we used wound inoculation and fruit trait data along with a large set of SNP data from the Axiom®Apple 480 K array to explore possible QTLs associated with rate of lesion decay, ripening period, fruit firmness and softening. Findings: Due to the very large number of SNPs in the present study, the significance threshold (5.63) was higher than in most other Genome-Wide Association Studies. However, some close to significant associations involving lesion decay were found on linkage group 3 (LG3), spanning a distance of 537 Kb (from 30,527,077 to 31,064,205). Interestingly, two SNPs associated with ripening period were also found on LG3 at the same position (30,494,523–30,885,771). Research limitations: This study could be extended with inclusion of more cultivars from different locations in order to minimize the impact of environment and to enhance the study power. Originality/Value: Although the genetic mechanism of blue mold resistance seems to be controlled by several genes in apple, our results indicate a possible association on LG3 which needs to be further investigated for candidate gene targeting. This finding may help to understand the genetic mechanism of blue mold disease in apple.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Sonu Sharma; Ramana Rao V. Tadapaneni; Prakash R. Patel
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates the influence of ultrasonic-homogenized alginate-based coatings on the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut pineapple. As preservation of fresh-cut produces is still a challenging task for both producers and distributors. Research method: Alginate emulsion was prepared ...
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Purpose: This study investigates the influence of ultrasonic-homogenized alginate-based coatings on the quality and shelf-life of fresh-cut pineapple. As preservation of fresh-cut produces is still a challenging task for both producers and distributors. Research method: Alginate emulsion was prepared using sodium alginate, distilled water and glycerol. The primary emulsion was formulated by adding olive oil, citral and cinnamic acid into sodium alginate solution and subjected to ultrasonic homogenization for varying durations (0, 20, 40, and 60 minutes) at a fixed amplitude of 20 kHz. Changes in physicochemical properties, microbial activity, browning enzymes and sensory evaluation were studied after application of emulsions followed by storage under refrigeration. Findings: The viscosity of the resulting solutions decreased significantly from 110.84±25.67 mPa×s to 17.75±1.59, 10.41±0.54, and 7.74±0.39 mPa×s, respectively, while the average droplet diameter decreased to approximately 300 nm, indicating a shift from heterogeneous to homogeneous particle size distribution. Application of alginate-based coating effectively preserved freshness of pineapple, maintaining color and firmness, minimizing hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde accumulation and reducing weight loss percentage. Furthermore, it retained levels of ascorbic acid and total phenolics, delayed enzymatic activities such as polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase and inhibited growth of mesophilic bacteria, yeasts and molds compared to control and primary emulsion coated samples. Research limitations: There were no limitations. Originality/Value: The study extended shelf-life of fresh-cut pineapple up to 12 days when stored at 5°C±1°C. The findings underscore the efficacy of ultrasonic-homogenized alginate coatings in improving coating solution homogeneity, thereby enhancing functionality as an edible coating for fresh-cut pineapple preservation.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Javad Fattahi Moghadam; Seyedeh Elham Seyedghasemi; Negin Akhlaghi Amiri
Abstract
Purpose: Citrus is one of the most important horticultural products in Iran. Fruit quality is usually influenced by variety, rootstock, and postharvest conditions. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the fruit quality and storability of three orange cultivars on two rootstocks. Research ...
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Purpose: Citrus is one of the most important horticultural products in Iran. Fruit quality is usually influenced by variety, rootstock, and postharvest conditions. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the fruit quality and storability of three orange cultivars on two rootstocks. Research method: Fruits of Navelina, Lane Late, and Thomson Novel on two rootstocks (Citrumelo and C35) were harvested when the TSS/TA ratio reached about 6.5-7. Fruit quality characteristics were evaluated at harvest and in cold storage (5°C, RH=85%) for 60 days. Findings: The fruits of all three cultivars on both rootstocks had arithmetic, geometrical, and homogenous diameter values close to the equivalent diameter value. The weight loss of ‘Lane Late’ was higher than the ‘Thomson’ and ‘Navelina’ fruits on both rootstocks during storage. ‘Navelina’ fruits on Citrumelo had reserved more juice percentage during storage. The TSS/TA index was lower in ‘Lane Late’ compared to the other cultivars on both rootstocks. A decrease in ascorbic acid was observed during storage. The peel greenness (a*=-10.53) was the lowest at ‘Lane Late’ fruit grafted on C35. The best CCI index was observed in ‘Navelina’ peel on both rootstocks. ‘Lane Late’ had the lowest antioxidant capacity on C35 (59.26%) and more antioxidant capacity (71.5%) on Citrumelo. Based on the sensory evaluation, ‘Navelina’ and ‘Thomson’ scored more points regarding the appearance and aroma of the C35 rootstock. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: The ‘Navelina’ has good color, good storage quality, and is early ripening. ‘Lane Late’ is a late ripening variety that is slow to de-green and is not suitable for cultivation in the north of Iran.
Original Article
Medicinal Plants
Elahe Ghafourian Hozouri Esfahan; Majid Azizi; Hassan Rakhshandeh; Hamid Sadeghian
Abstract
Purpose: Due to the short-day nature of the velvet bean, which triggers flowering in the autumn with decreasing day length, its production in temperate and high-latitude regions under greenhouse conditions requires modifications in its flowering and fruiting habits. Therefore, this study aimed to optimize ...
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Purpose: Due to the short-day nature of the velvet bean, which triggers flowering in the autumn with decreasing day length, its production in temperate and high-latitude regions under greenhouse conditions requires modifications in its flowering and fruiting habits. Therefore, this study aimed to optimize L-DOPA production by investigating photoperiod changes and hormonal regulation to encourage flowering and fruiting under greenhouse conditions. Research Method: Treatments included photoperiod at two levels (13-hour darkness and natural day length) as the first factor and growth regulators at seven levels (50 and 100 mg of gibberellin, 20 and 50 mg of paclobutrazol, 50 and 100 mg of cytokinin, and a control treatment) as the second factor. Findings: the effects of photoperiod, growth regulators, and their interaction were significant for all traits except for internode length. The natural light treatment resulted in a 3% delay in flowering compared to the 13-hour dark treatment, whereas the 13-hour dark treatment exhibited higher fruit weight, seed yield, and L-DOPA content (18%) compared to the natural light. Moreover, the application of 50 mg paclobutrazol reduced the days to flowering by 55 days compared to the control. On the other hand, the 50 mg paclobutrazol treatment showed significant increases in fruit weight (59%), seed yield (65%), and L-DOPA content (31%) compared to the control. Research limitations: No limitations were found. Originality/Value: Overall, extending the dark period improved velvet beans' yield and yield components. Furthermore, paclobutrazol enhanced yield more effectively than gibberellin and cytokinin. Based on the experiment, the best treatment for achieving maximum quantitative yield and L-DOPA content was 13-hour darkness combined with 50 mg of paclobutrazol.
Original Article
Ornamental Plants
Azadeh Mousavi Bazaz; Amirali Salavati Nik; Hajar Nemati
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of seed priming on Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.) seedlings under saline conditions, focusing on salicylic acid and potassium nitrate treatments. Research method: The research was conducted at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in 2024. F1 ...
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Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of seed priming on Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus L.) seedlings under saline conditions, focusing on salicylic acid and potassium nitrate treatments. Research method: The research was conducted at Ferdowsi University of Mashhad in 2024. F1 Seeds of the 'Sunstorm Red' were primed with salicylic acid (150, 250 and 350 mg/L) and potassium nitrate (50 and 100 mg/L) for 24 hours. A factorial experiment based on a completely randomized design with three replications assessed four salinity levels (0, 4, 6, and 8 dS/m) and two sowing methods: direct sowing in pots and indirect sowing via germination in petri dishes followed by transplantation. Traits such as relative water content, SPAD index, electrolyte leakage, were measured 65 days after sowing. Findings: Seed priming significantly reduced the negative effects of salinity. Potassium nitrate priming outperformed salicylic acid in enhancing relative water content, SPAD index, stem and root lengths, and biomass. Direct sowing showed better resistance to salinity compared to indirect sowing, particularly in improving stem length, root length, and SPAD index. Primed seeds exhibited higher germination rates and stronger seedlings with enhanced growth characteristics compared to untreated seeds. Research limitations: The study was limited to specific priming agents and salinity levels, suggesting further research to optimize potassium nitrate concentrations for improved seedling production. Originality/Value: This research recommends potassium nitrate priming for robust C. roseus seedling production in saline environments. The findings can guide growers in selecting cost-effective priming strategies to enhance plant resilience and productivity sustainably.
Original Article
Postharvest Disorders and Diseases
Khali Mustapha; Marouf Aribi Mohamed
Abstract
Purpose: This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of four heat treatment protocols, 45°C for 30 minutes, 50°C for 25 minutes, 55°C for 20 minutes, and 60 °C for 10 minutes, for the disinfestation of Deglet Nour dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) while ensuring postharvest quality preservation ...
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Purpose: This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of four heat treatment protocols, 45°C for 30 minutes, 50°C for 25 minutes, 55°C for 20 minutes, and 60 °C for 10 minutes, for the disinfestation of Deglet Nour dates (Phoenix dactylifera L.) while ensuring postharvest quality preservation and consumer acceptability. Research Method: The effectiveness of these heat treatments was assessed in terms of larval and egg mortality, physicochemical parameters (moisture, pH), sensory quality (texture, color, flavor, aroma), and microbiological stability, with additional storage trials using passive Modified Atmosphere Packaging (pMAP) based on PET film at 10±1°C for 5 months. Findings: Higher-temperature and shorter-duration heat treatments (notably 55°C/20 min and 60°C/10 min) proved most effective for insect disinfestation, with the 55°C/20 min treatment achieving 88.40% larval mortality while preserving the sensory qualities of the dates. Most treatments led to a noticeable reduction in moisture content, potentially affecting shelf-life and texture, except for the lowest temperature protocol. The 55°C/20 min treatment offered the best pH stability, which is key for preventing enzymatic and microbial degradation. When combined with passive Modified Atmosphere Packaging (pMAP) using PET film, this protocol ensured long-term preservation by maintaining both the physical quality and microbiological safety of the dates during cold storage. Research limitations: Further research could explore its applicability to other date varieties and dried fruits under different storage conditions. Originality/Value: This method provides a non-chemical, scientifically validated disinfestation solution, reducing reliance on fumigants and pesticides while ensuring product safety and marketability.
Original Article
Postharvest Biology and Technology
Anussara Chopsri; Nanthaya Kengkhetkit
Abstract
Purpose: Marian plum deteriorates rapidly after harvest, causing significant postharvest losses. This study aimed to develop polysaccharide-based edible coatings combined with beeswax and evaluate their effects on marian plum (Bouea burmanica Griff) quality during cold storage. Research Method: The experiment ...
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Purpose: Marian plum deteriorates rapidly after harvest, causing significant postharvest losses. This study aimed to develop polysaccharide-based edible coatings combined with beeswax and evaluate their effects on marian plum (Bouea burmanica Griff) quality during cold storage. Research Method: The experiment used a completely randomized design. Three edible polysaccharide coatings (chitosan, starch, carboxymethyl cellulose) with varying beeswax concentrations (0-2%) were developed and characterized. Coated fruits were stored at 10°C for 16 days with quality assessments conducted every 4 days. Findings: Beeswax incorporation systematically increased film hydrophobicity across all polysaccharide types, with chitosan at 2% beeswax concentration achieving the highest contact angles (109.38°), though still below the natural fruit surface (115.70°). SEM analysis revealed that beeswax addition transformed smooth film surfaces into rougher morphologies while reducing moisture content. Most coated treatments showed higher weight loss (6.38-10.65%) than uncoated control (5.39%), while chitosan without beeswax has no significant different in weight loss compared to the uncoated control. Carboxymethyl cellulose with 1% beeswax showed significantly higher firmness than uncoated fruit at day 12. Total soluble solids slightly increased (14.5-16.5 °Brix) across treatments, while titratable acidity showed treatment-specific variations throughout the 16-day storage period. Research limitations: The study was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions over 16 days, requiring validation under commercial storage conditions. Originality/Value: This represents the first systematic evaluation of edible coatings for marian plum, providing practical guidance on effective postharvest treatments. The findings identify chitosan without beeswax maintains fruit quality without increasing weight loss, while demonstrating that complex formulations may reduce storage performance.
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