Greenhouse Plant Production Journal

Abstract A challenge in cultivating Chaenomeles japonica L. is the occurrence of iron chlorosis. Employing rootstocks that are tolerant of calcareous soils represents the effective strategy for addressing the encounters posed by alkaline soils. This study examines the compatibility of Chaenomeles japonica L. grafting with rootstocks and evaluates the influence of IBA on the grafting process using the stenting method. The investigation focused on the influence of IBA (0, 1000, and 2000 mg l-1) and rootstocks (Rosa alba, Pyracantha coccinea, Malus domestica cv. Gami Almasi, Pyracantha coccinea, Cydonia oblonga, and the Malling M9) utilizing the budding grafting and splice grafting technique. The evaluation of traits, success of the grafting, rooting percentage, root volume, the number of activated scions, the callus formation, the length of shoot, the inter-node distance, and the leaves number, was conducted. The findings indicated that the application of IBA effectively promoted root development. The most significant root development was observed in Chaenomeles japonica L. when grafted onto Rosa alba rootstock and subjected to at 2000 mg of IBA. The Pyracantha coccinea exhibited the lowest number of activated grafts; however, it demonstrated the highest callus formation at the grafting site among the rootstocks, suggesting a superior grafting potential. It is considered a suitable candidate for the propagation of Chaenomeles japonica L. grafts through the cutting-grafting technique. Grafting Chaenomeles japonica L. on Pyracantha coccinea demonstrates superior compatibility and enhanced growth vigor. It is expected that this rootstock will exhibit improved tolerance to alkaline soil, potentially eliminating the leaf early chlorosis.

Abstract The escalating challenges presented by climate change, soil erosion, and a rising global population demand the adoption of innovative agricultural practices, especially within the realm of protected cultivation. This paper explores the significance and advancements in greenhouse and controlled cultivation techniques, focusing on fruit production. In fruit tree cultivation, employing greenhouse management science and implementing control and protection measures throughout the growth process can create ideal plant conditions. This approach facilitates the achievement of various objectives, producing fruit outside the primary environment, generating early-season fruit and off-season crops, and the potential to yield multiple harvests within a single growing season. Additionally, this approach effectively addresses numerous challenges fruit trees face, including drought, climate change, temperature stress, damage from hail, sunburn, and pest attacks, ultimately enhancing plant performance and quality. Despite these ongoing challenges, it improves production and increases efficiency. In this context, a specialist must constantly monitor the plants to control vegetative growth and enhance flowering through professional tree canopy and root pruning. Furthermore, a greenhouse specialist should be well-versed in the role of hormones in the physiological mechanisms of trees to induce flowering, accelerate the ripening process for off-season production, and meet chilling requirements and other needs. Actions such as controlling the atmospheric conditions within the greenhouse and monitoring the nutrient composition of the growing medium are also crucial for enhancing tree growth. Consequently, cultivating fruit trees in a greenhouse can increase yield and net profit while conserving water, soil resources, and solar energy.

Abstract Strawberries are one of the most important fruits in horticulture. In this research, the effects of arginine application timing and different concentrations on some qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the strawberry cultivar 'Queen Eliza' were investigated. Plants were treated with arginine at concentrations of 0, 250, and 500 µM at two stages (30 days after planting and at the first blooming) in a factorial experiment based on a randomized complete block design with four replications under greenhouse conditions. The results showed that the fruits of plants treated with arginine exhibited improved qualitative characteristics compared to the control treatment. Specifically, the application of different levels of arginine increased yield, primary and secondary fruit weight, and the number of achenes (quantitative characteristics). Additionally, it enhanced total soluble solids, reducing sugars, titratable acidity, anthocyanin, phenol, and vitamin C content (qualitative characteristics). The most effective treatment and optimal spraying time were 500 µM arginine and 30 days after planting, respectively, for improving both qualitative and quantitative characteristics. This study provides the first evidence that arginine enhances the quantitative characteristics of strawberry fruits, thereby improving overall fruit quality.

Abstract To investigate the effect of different planting substrates and varying levels of vermicompost on the growth and physiological traits of Spathiphyllum under greenhouse conditions. In this experiment, factor A included four levels of planting substrate (sand + perlite, sand + peat, peat + perlite, peat + perlite + sand), and factor B included four levels of vermicompost (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% by volume of the pot). The results obtained from the experiment indicated that the interaction effect of planting substrates and vermicompost on important traits such as the number of leaves on the plant, length and width of the spathe, fresh and dry weight of the offshoot, and the amounts of chlorophyll, nitrogen, and iron in the leaves was significant. Specifically, using peat + perlite + sand (all in a ratio of 8.3 by volume of the pot) combined with 75% vermicompost resulted in the highest values for leaf length, spathe length, number of roots in the offshoot, chlorophyll content in the leaves, nitrogen content in the leaves, and iron content in the leaves, showing 20 to 30 percent higher effects compared to all other treatments. Conversely, the treatment of 50% perlite + 50% sand without using vermicompost exhibited the lowest values across all mentioned traits. Therefore, the use of peat + perlite + sand (all in a ratio of 8.3 by volume of the pot) combined with 75% vermicompost is recommended as the most suitable substrate for the cultivation of Spathiphyllum.

Abstract The postharvest quality of vegetables and fruits is significantly influenced by environmental factors, including light exposure. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) offer a versatile tool for manipulating light spectra to enhance the preservation and quality of produce. This review examines the impact of different LED light spectra on the postharvest quality of vegetables and fruits. The research problem addressed is the optimization of LED lighting conditions to extend shelf life and maintain nutritional and aesthetic qualities of produce. The methodology involved a comprehensive analysis of existing literature on the effects of various LED light spectra, including red, blue, green, ultraviolet and combinations thereof, on postharvest attributes such as color, texture, and nutrient retention. Key findings indicate that specific LED spectra can delay senescence, reduce spoilage, and enhance antioxidant content in certain produce types. For instance, red light often promotes ethylene production, while blue light can suppress microbial growth. The main conclusions highlight the potential of tailored LED lighting strategies to improve postharvest management practices. These findings have significant implications for the development of more efficient storage and transportation systems, potentially reducing food waste and enhancing consumer satisfaction. Future research directions include exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying light-induced responses in produce and integrating LED technology into commercial postharvest handling systems. Overall, this review underscores the importance of light spectrum optimization in maintaining the quality and extending the shelf life of vegetables and fruits, contributing to a more sustainable food supply chain.

Abstract To date, various preservative solutions and chemicals have been introduced to extend the postharvest longevity of cut flowers, and research in this field holds significant economic and horticultural importance. In this study, the response of cut rose flowers to different application methods and concentrations of melatonin was investigated. The experiment was carried out based on a completely randomized design, with two treatment methods: short-term (pulse) and continuous application, using different concentrations and five replications per treatment. In the short-term (pulse) method, the samples were placed in a melatonin solution for a specified duration after re-cutting, and then each sample was transferred to a vase solution. The pulse treatments included melatonin concentrations of 0.1, 0.5, 1, and 2 mM, each applied for 30 minutes. Additionally, the 0.5 mM melatonin concentration was applied for 2 and 4 hours. Continuous treatments were applied at three concentrations (0.01, 0.1, and 1 mM) until the end of the vase life. The results indicated that melatonin treatments had a significant effect on vase life compared to the control. The longest vase life was observed with the 0.1 mM pulse treatment. It appears that melatonin application helps reduce ion leakage. Exhibited superior retention of water uptake, relative moisture content, chlorophyll, and carotenoid levels. The greater effectiveness of the pulse treatment compared to the continuous treatment may be attributed to the sensitivity and instability of melatonin.