Research Article
Pomology
F. Nekounam; A. Salehi
Abstract
Introduction
Apple (Malus damestica L.) is one of the most popular temperate fruits in the world as well as Iran. One of the challenges in managing apple orchards is excessive fruit formation or excessive fruit drop especially in the pre-harvest stage, which affects the performance and marketable product. ...
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Introduction
Apple (Malus damestica L.) is one of the most popular temperate fruits in the world as well as Iran. One of the challenges in managing apple orchards is excessive fruit formation or excessive fruit drop especially in the pre-harvest stage, which affects the performance and marketable product. Therefore, the control fruit set is required to help regular fruit production. Currently, the application of synthetic auxins as plant growth regulators are successfully practiced and mainly used in various countries, including all aspects of modern apple production to control and manipulate vegetative growth and regulation of flowering, reduce immature fruit drop, fruit maturity, firmness, and manage apple harvest. Among the auxin-type growth regulators, NAA is a synthetic auxin analogue that may down-regulate abscission-related genes and reduce the sensitivity of the abscission zone to ethylene. It has long been used to reduce or totally prevent pre-harvest fruit drops, to preserve fruit flesh firmness, and to prevent starch degradation in apples. Therefore, this experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of foliar application of NAA at different days after full bloom on controlling fruit drop and enhancing the physical and biochemical attributes of ‘Red Delicious’ apple fruits. The findings presented here may improve understanding of the impact of this plant growth regulator on apple quality and contribute to developing strategies to reduce postharvest losses.
Materials and Methods
In order to study the effect of NAA on controlling fruit drop, fruit yield and quality, a factorial experiment based on randomized complete blocks design with three replication was conducted under Zanjan climatic conditions during 2023. Ten year-old ‘Red Delicious’ Standard apple trees grafted on M.9 rootstock were used as plant material. Treatments consisted of different concentration of NAA (15, 30, 50 and 75 mg.L-1) sprayed at different days after full bloom (10, 25 and 40 DAFB). The date of full bloom was 04/22/2023. The fruit growth pattern was based on fruit weight and diameter during DAFB. According to fruit growth pattern, fruit were harvested at physiological maturity stage. Fruit number per replicate, fruit weight, diameter and shape index, fruit firmness, total soluble solids content and taste index were measured. Also, fruit drop percentage, fruit yield as well as fruit efficiency was estimated.
Results and Discussion
Advanced knowledge of apple fruit development from fruitlet to maturity is crucial for optimal prediction of year-to-year yields and fruit quality. Apple fruit growth has been defined as sigmoidal increase in fruit diameter or fresh weight. Studying two fruit growth patterns based on fruit weight and diameter data showed that fruit weight is a more appropriate indicator for drawing fruit growth patterns, and according to that, the fruits were harvested at the physiological maturity stage. Foliar spray of NAA during different DAFB showed different significant effects on fruit drop and yield efficiency. The highest rate of fruit drop (95.7 % and 85.9 %) was observed with foliar application of NAA at 10 and 25 DAFB, respectively, but its application at 40 DAFB reduced fruit drop by 46.9% compared to the control, and correspondingly the fruit yield increased by 22% compared to the control treatment. The lowest number and weight of fruits per unit shoot cross sectional area was observed in trees treated with different concentrations of NAA at 10 DAFB. The maximum fruit length (72.3 mm), diameter (75.8 mm), weight (180 g) and fruit volume (240 cm3) were obtained with application of 75 mg L-1 NAA at 10 DAFB. The foliar spray of NAA at 10 DAFB significantly increased the fruit density, flash firmness and TSS. But their use in 25 and 40 DAFB had no significant effect on fruit density and flash firmness, and significantly decreased fruit TSS by 23.9% compared to the control trees. Unlike the TSS, the value of fruit titratable acidity showed a significant increase in all three times of naphthalene acetic acid treatment compared to the control, and as a result, the fruit taste index decreased.
Conclusions
The present study concluded that the positive effects of NAA in controlling fruit drop and improving the yield and fruit quality will be different depending on the time of application and the weather conditions of the region under study. According to the results, the application of NAA at 40 DAFB reduced fruit drop and increased fruit yield efficiency.
Research Article
Growing vegetables
M. Mohammad Rezaei; M. Hassanpour Asil; J.A. Olfati; M.M. Gheisari
Abstract
Introduction
The Persian Shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss), an endemic and economically significant medicinal plant native to Iran, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its potent therapeutic properties and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. Traditionally used in Iranian ...
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Introduction
The Persian Shallot (Allium hirtifolium Boiss), an endemic and economically significant medicinal plant native to Iran, has garnered increasing attention in recent years due to its potent therapeutic properties and adaptability to diverse climatic conditions. Traditionally used in Iranian medicine, this plant boasts a rich phytochemical profile that contributes to its effectiveness in treating various ailments, including rheumatism, stomach ulcers, and microbial infections. Beyond these established applications, recent studies suggest that the Persian Shallot may also serve as a potential aquaculture regulator, further enhancing its value in both agricultural and pharmaceutical contexts. However, growing demand and the overharvesting of wild populations have raised concerns regarding the plant's long-term sustainability and conservation. Unsustainable harvesting practices pose significant threats to the genetic reservoir and ecological balance of its native habitats. In light of these challenges, there is a pressing need to promote sustainable cultivation practices and conservation-oriented harvesting strategies. Iran’s rich biodiversity and favorable agro-climatic conditions offer a strategic advantage for the cultivation, research, and export of high-quality medicinal plants such as the Persian Shallot. Research that focuses on evaluating local ecotypes and their nutritional and phytochemical characteristics can facilitate domestication efforts, genetic improvement programs, and the broader commercialization of this valuable species.
Materials and Methods
This study was conducted in 2022 across six distinct natural habitats of Allium hirtifolium in Isfahan Province, Iran. These habitats, which differ in elevation and environmental conditions, were selected to capture a broad range of genetic and ecological diversity. From each habitat, 50 individual plant samples were collected during the growing season, resulting in a total of 300 samples. The primary objective was to evaluate and compare the morphophysiological and phytochemical traits of Persian Shallot populations across these diverse environments. Morphological traits assessed included the number of leaves per plant, leaf surface area, and the fresh and dry weight of bulbs. These indicators were selected for their relevance to plant vigor, productivity, and commercial value. For phytochemical analysis, fresh leaf samples were processed using acetone-based extraction. The contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity were measured spectrophotometrically. This biochemical evaluation aimed to provide insights into the plants’ adaptive responses to environmental variables such as altitude, temperature fluctuations, and soil conditions. Data analysis was performed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to determine statistically significant differences among populations. Cluster analysis was also conducted to group the habitats based on their morphophysiological and phytochemical traits. All statistical computations and visualizations were carried out using SAS, SPSS, and Microsoft Excel software.
Results and Discussion
The results revealed significant diversity among Persian Shallot plants from different habitats, indicating high levels of biodiversity due to environmental and genetic factors. Variations were observed in morphological traits such as fresh and dry weight, leaf area, chlorophyll, carotenoid levels, and antioxidant activity across the different populations. Altitude was found to be particularly influential, with plants at higher altitudes showing larger leaf areas and higher chlorophyll concentrations. These adaptations suggest that environmental conditions such as temperature and sunlight availability at different altitudes strongly affect the plant’s growth and phytochemical profile. Phytochemical analysis also showed higher antioxidant activity in plants from higher altitudes, likely due to environmental stress factors such as low temperature and increased UV exposure. These findings underscore the importance of altitude in influencing the biological and chemical characteristics of Persian Shallot populations. Cluster analysis grouped the different habitats, revealing distinct patterns of trait expression that reflect the plants’ adaptation to their environments. Understanding how environmental factors like altitude affect plant traits is essential for developing breeding strategies aimed at improving yield and medicinal properties. The study emphasizes the need for selecting landraces with desirable characteristics for both cultivation and conservation purposes. By considering environmental gradients in plant selection and breeding, we can ensure that the genetic diversity and valuable traits of Allium hirtifolium are preserved.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates the presence of significant biodiversity among Persian Shallot populations across six habitats in Isfahan province. The results suggest that altitude plays a critical role in shaping both genetic diversity and phytochemical composition, which are key to the plant's adaptability and medicinal value. The observed variations offer opportunities to select suitable landraces for specific uses, whether for their phytochemical content or their ability to thrive under certain environmental conditions. Further research should focus on identifying specific genetic factors contributing to this diversity. Molecular markers can be used to gain deeper insights into the genetic structure of these populations, aiding in the development of targeted breeding programs. By understanding the role of environmental factors and genetics in shaping plant traits, we can support the sustainable use and conservation of this important medicinal plant.
Research Article
Medicinal Plants
M. Azizi; S. Beigi; Z. Safaei; M. Mansoori
Abstract
IntroductionMedicinal plants are economical important plants that are used in traditional medicine and industry as raw or processed materials. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is one of the important medicinal plants which belong to Valerianaceae family. The valerian rhizome and roots have been considered ...
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IntroductionMedicinal plants are economical important plants that are used in traditional medicine and industry as raw or processed materials. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) is one of the important medicinal plants which belong to Valerianaceae family. The valerian rhizome and roots have been considered as a valuable medicinal plant that essential oil content (between 0.1 to 2 percent) varied according to climatic conditions of production location. Valerian needs a lot of water during the growth period and enough moisture around the roots and rhizome increase root yield. Iran is situated in an arid and semi-arid region. When a plant's minimum water requirement is not met, it experiences drought stress, which can cause severe and often irreversible damage to the crop. One effective method for improving irrigation efficiency under such conditions is the use of superabsorbent polymers. These hydrocarbon-based materials can retain large amounts of water or aqueous solutions in the plant root zone, thereby mitigating the negative effects of drought stress. Their application can enhance plant growth, extend irrigation intervals, reduce water loss, and lower irrigation costs. Generally, water efficiency, dry matter production and root development, are positive reactions to the use of superabsorbent. In this regard, Stockosorb® copolymer is potassium-based nutrients that have a high ability to absorb water and nutrients and high strength polymer maintained the water has been proven. The aims of this investigation were to study the effects of Stockosorb® hydrophilic polymers, on some morphological (root dry weight and yield, leaf area), biochemical (chlorophyll a, b), physiological (electrolyte leakage, leaf relative water content) characteristics and essential oil content and yield of valerian under drought stress. Materials and MethodsThis research was conducted in field (1×1 m2) at Department of Horticultural Science‚ College of Agriculture‚ Ferdowsi University of Mashhad. The research was set out in a factorial experiment based on completely randomized block design. The Stockosorb® hydrophilic polymer at four concentrations (0, 100, 200, 300 gr/m2) and two irrigation period (6 and 10 day) with three replications were set as treatments and leaf area, root dry weight and yield, chlorophyll a, b, electrolyte leakage, leaf relative water content and essential oil content and yield were evaluated at the end of the growth period. The seeds of Valeriana officinalis were sown in protected open field for seedling production and the seedling were transplanted to the field at four-leaf stage (10 plant per plot). Stockosorb® mixed with soil, after weighing the polymers based on determined concentration. After seedling establishment, all plots were irrigated with a determined amount and equal of water. Results and DiscussionThe results showed, using Stockosorb® superabsorbent polymer be useful for water supply the plant in water stress condition. Application of this substance on some morphological, biochemical and physiological characteristics and valerian essential oil, was significant at 1% and superior to the control. According to the results obtained, Stockosorb® 300 g.m-2 with irrigation period 6 days interval, increased leaf area, root dry yield, leaf relative water content, chlorophyll a and essential oil yield. While, the highest valerian root dry weight and essential oil content were obtained with application of Stockosorb® 200 g.m-2 and irrigation period of 6 days interval. The highest electrolyte leakage was related to control and irrigation period 10 days interval and the maximum chlorophyll b was belonged to Stockosorb® 100 g.m-2 with irrigation period 10 days interval. ConclusionsSince the ultimate goal in cultivating valerian, as with other essential oil-bearing plants, is to optimize both yield and essential oil content, the findings of this study recommend the application of 300 g/m² Stockosorb polymer combined with a 6-day irrigation interval. This approach effectively mitigates drought stress and enhances all evaluated growth and yield characteristics in valerian.The highest root dry weight under drought stress was related to more accessible and preservatives water in characteristics the root zone and it found by using the middle concentrations (200 gr/m2) super absorbent polymer and irrigation period shorter (6 day). Using of mentioned treatments, according to the middle water stress, leads to increased valerian essential oil. The best root dry yield, essential oil yield, electrolyte leakage, chlorophyll a and %RWC with sufficient amounts of water and better growth conditions were achieved by application of 300 g.m-2 Stockosorb® and irrigation period 6 days interval. In general, superabsorbent polymer was able to increase irrigation period and this was evident in qualitative and quantitative results related to the valerian in the treatment of 300 gr/m2 with irrigation period 10 day and 100 g.m-2 of polymer 6 day irrigation period. The results showed that superabsorbent polymers can enhance plant performance by influencing plant metabolic processes and providing protection against environmental stresses. Their application reduces the adverse effects of stress, contributing to the preservation and improvement of the plant's economic yield.
Research Article
Growing vegetables
F. Ghaemizadeh; F. Dashti
Abstract
Introduction
At present, garlic (Allium sativum L.) production is completely dependent on asexual propagation, but a wide diversity of bolting and scape formation is observed in garlic. Based on their ability to produce flowering stem (scape), garlic clones are classified into non-bolting, semi-bolting, ...
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Introduction
At present, garlic (Allium sativum L.) production is completely dependent on asexual propagation, but a wide diversity of bolting and scape formation is observed in garlic. Based on their ability to produce flowering stem (scape), garlic clones are classified into non-bolting, semi-bolting, and bolting clones. In non-bolting clones, scape is not formed or abort at early stages. In semi-bolting clones, cessation of scape development often results in the formation of very short scape between the leaves and development of the elongated leaf-like bracts in the center of the inflorescence. In bolting clones after exposure to low temperature during autumn and winter (vernalization) and long day during spring, long and thick scape is formed which contains inflorescence with flowers. Transition from vegetative to reproductive phase and formation of scape, inflorescences and flowers in plants includes a series of continuous stages which control by several gene groups. Vernalization reduces the expression of the flowering inhibitors like FLOWERING LOCUC C (FLC), resulting in increased flowering integrators expression like SUPPRESSOR OF OVER EXPRESSON OF CONSTANT 1 (SOC1), APETALA 1 (AP1) and APETALA 1 (AP2). So, a correct understanding of the vernalization control genes expression pattern will improve garlic flowering and breeding programs. The aim of this study was to investigate the relative expression of AsFLC, AsSOC1, AsAP1 and AsAP2 before and after vernalization in Iranian bolting, semi-bolting and non-bolting garlic clones.
Materials and Methods
In this study, three garlic clones including, bolting (Mazand Zabol), semi-bolting (Langrud), and non-bolting (Hamedan) garlic clones were selected from vegetable collection of Bu-Ali Sina university (Hamedan, Iran). At first, RNA extracted from meristems of three clones monthly, from 4 to 20 weeks after planting (for AsFLC, AsSOC1, AsAP1 and AsAP2 expression analysis) and from inflorescence of semi-bolting and bolting clones at 24 weeks after planting (for AsSOC1, AsAP1 and AsAP2 expression analysis) at 2 biological replicates. Then, cDNA synthesized using Oligo d(T) primer and relative expression pattern of the mentioned genes were analyzed using quantitative Real time- PCR.
Results and discussion
The highest expression of the AsFLC in all three clones were observed at 4 weeks after culture (before vernalization). Its expression in non-bolting clone at 4 weeks after planting was 2.03 and 1.13 times more than bolting and semi-bolting garlic, respectively. After vernalization AsFLC expression decreased in the meristem of the all three clones. The decrease in the relative expression of AsFLC in bolting garlic occurred at a faster rate compared to the other two garlic clones. Then the relative expression of the AsSOC1 was increased in the meristem during vegetative to reproductive transition phase (12 weeks after planting). The highest AsSOC1 expression was observed in the meristem of bolting garlic at 12 weeks after planting which was 10.98 and 18.41 times more than the meristem of semi-bolting and non-bolting garlic, respectively. AsAP1 was expressed in the meristem of three clones in the vegetative to reproductive phase, but its highest expression was in bolting clone at 12 weeks after planting and was 1.22 and 3.64 times more than the meristem of semi-bolting and non-bolting clone respectively. AsAP2 was just expressed in the meristem of semi-bolting and bolting clones and after reproductive transition. The highest expression of the AsAP2 was observed at 16 weeks after planting in the meristem of semi-bolting and bolting garlic, which was higher in bolting garlic (2.33 times) in comparison to semi–bolting garlic. Decreases in the expression of the AsFLC during vernalization and increases in the expression of the AsSOC1 and AsAP1 during vegetative to reproductive phase in the meristem may lead to scape formation in bolting garlic. However, the higher AsFLC and the lower AsSOC1 and AsAP1 expression in the meristems of non- and semi bolting garlics in comparison to bolting garlic inhibit scape formation. In non-bolting garlic scape aborts and in semi-bolting garlic short and thin scape formed in the middle of leaves. According to the results AsSOC1 and AsAP1 were expressed in the inflorescence of semi-bolting and bolting garlic. AsSOC1 and AsAP1 relative expression in the inflorescence of bolting garlic were 4.28 and 11.25 times more than semi-bolting garlic, respectively. AsAP2 was just expressed in the inflorescence of the bolting clone but wasn’t expressed in the inflorescence of semi-bolting garlic. The differences in the expression pattern of AsSOC1, AsAP1 and AsAP2 in the inflorescence of the garlic clones could be the reason of the abnormal inflorescence in semi-bolting garlic.
Conclusions
Finally, it seems that AsFLC is a flowering inhibitor and AsSOC1 and AsAP1 are flowering integrators in bolting garlic. As AsFLC expression decreased after vernalization and AsSOC1 and AsAP2 were expressed highly in the time of vegetative to reproductive transition in the meristem of all clones, and there was difference in the bolting of clones, it is suggested that these genes may influence flower induction but their low relative expression cause incomplete bolting in semi-bolting garlic and forbid bolting in non-bolting garlic.
Research Article
Postharvest physiology
mina bahrami; Mehdi Jahani; mohmmad Hossein Aminifard
Abstract
Introduction
Long term storage of pomegranate fruit is compromised by pathogens that cause postharvest rots and decay. Pomegranatesare predisposed to attack from various pathogens at pre- and/or postharvest stage, which has a significant impact on fruit quality and storage life. These pathogens ...
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Introduction
Long term storage of pomegranate fruit is compromised by pathogens that cause postharvest rots and decay. Pomegranatesare predisposed to attack from various pathogens at pre- and/or postharvest stage, which has a significant impact on fruit quality and storage life. These pathogens often cause damage to the tissues, thereby making the fruit unsaleable. A significant portion of pomegranate pre- and postharvest losses is attributed to dis-eases associated with various bacterial and fungal species. The use of plant essential oils is considered as a new idea in reducing post-harvest waste and increasing the storage life of horticultural products and controlling fungal contamination in developed agriculture. This study was conducted with the aim of determining the antifungal effect of some herbal essential oils in different concentrations on pomegranate fruit to prevent the growth of Penicillium fungus in vitro and in vivo.
Materials and Methods
In order to investigate the effect of the essential oils of some medicinal plants on the fungus Penicilliumsp. in pomegranate fruit in in vivo and in vitro conditions, a factorial experiment was conducted in the form of a completely randomized design with three replications at the Faculty of Agriculture of Birjand University in 2022. The first factor included the type of essential oil: Ginger, Zenian, Tarragon and Cardamom essential oils, and the second factor included the concentration of essential oil at five levels (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 microliters.liter-1).The index measured in in vitro conditions was the radial growth of the fungus. The indicators measured in vivo conditions include appearance of the fruit, TSS, pH, total acidity (meq.g-1), total phenol (mg galic acid.100 g-1 FW), antioxidant (%), antocyanin (mg.g-1) and tissue firmness. Finally, the experimental data were statistically analyzed using SAS program and comparison of means was performed by LSD test at 5% probability level.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the increase in the concentration of essential oils also increases their antifungal activity, so the highest inhibition rate was observed in Ginger essential oil and the lowest in Cardamom essential oil on the growth of the fungus colony. The strongest antifungal activity was observed with the essential oils of ginger, zedoary (Zenian), tarragon, and cardamom, in that order. Notably, no fungal growth was detected in samples treated with ginger essential oil throughout the entire sampling period. These results indicate that the tested essential oils effectively inhibited fungal colony growth and demonstrated significant antifungal potential.In in vivo conditions, the best fruit appearance was obtained in pomegranates impregnated with Zenian and Ginger essential oils, and the least was observed in Cardamom essential oil. Ginger essential oil had the highest amount of soluble solids. The highest pH value of fruit juice was obtained from Ginger essential oil and the lowest pH value was obtained from Tarragon and Cardamom essential oils. The fruits treated with Tarragon essential oil had the highest total acidity. The fruits treated with Ginger essential oil had the highest amount of total phenol. The statistical comparison of the averages showed that the highest percentage of antioxidants was observed in the Ginger essential oil treatment and the lowest antioxidant percentage was found in the Tarragon essential oil treatment. The results showed that the infected fruits treated with Zenian essential oil with a concentration of 800 microliters.liter-1 had the highest antioxidant. The results of the comparison of the averages related to the effect of the type of essential oil show that Cardamom and Ginger essential oils had the highest and lowest anthocyanin content, respectively. In this experiment, Ginger essential oil had the highest hardness of the fruit texture and the lowest index was obtained from the essential oil of Zenian.
Conclusions
In general, the results of this research showed that essential oils have antifungal properties in the control of fungal disease after harvest; in-vitro tests showed that Cardamom essential oil had a very low fungicidal effect and in the control of Penicillium sp. Ginger essential oil had the most fungicidal effect. Antifungal properties increased with increasing the concentration of essential oil, but the antifungal property of Ginger essential oil was 100% in 400-800 concentrations used. Under natural conditions, Ginger and Zenian essential oil has good antifungal activity against Penicilliumsp.Considering the biodegradability and low toxicity of plant essential oils, the use of Ginger and Zenian essential oil is recommended to increase the shelf life of food products and can be used as disease controllers in agriculture.
Research Article
Ornamental plants
G.H. Homayouni; M.R. Raji; A. Ehteshamnia; M. Aalifar
Abstract
IntroductionClimate change and environmental pollutants are effective on the growth of different plant species. Plants in general and trees in particular react to climatic and environmental changes. Air pollution and climate changes have a significant effect on the growth, quality and phytochemical characteristics ...
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IntroductionClimate change and environmental pollutants are effective on the growth of different plant species. Plants in general and trees in particular react to climatic and environmental changes. Air pollution and climate changes have a significant effect on the growth, quality and phytochemical characteristics of trees in urban green spaces, because chronic injuries are caused by continuous absorption of pollutants. The metropolis of Tehran is known as one of the most immigrant-friendly cities in the country. The main environmental problems of Tehran city are the lack of natural air ventilation, the persistence of pollutants, dryness of the air, the existence of dust, the noise and the destruction of natural ecosystems. Air quality is related to the chemical state of the atmosphere at any time and place. Like weather, air quality affects everyone. Materials and MethodsThe current research was carried out in the city of Tehran in the form of a completely random design with three replication. This research was carried out with the aim of investigating the effect of ten-year climate changes and environmental pollutants on the chemical properties of plantain trees in 4 regions of Valiasr street of Tehran (regions 1, 3, 6 and 11). In this study, four areas of the city include Valiasr Street in area 1 from Tajrish Square to Parkway (average height above sea level 1611 meters and average slope 20.17), area 3 from Parkway to Hemat Bridge (average height 1501 meters and average slope 5.89), zone 6 from Hammet bridge to Valiasr intersection (height 1308 meters and average slope 5.17) and zone 11 from Valiasr intersection to railway square (average height 1152 meters above sea level and average slope 2.19) were selected for the study. Region 1 was selected as a clean or low pollution region, region 3 as a polluted region one, region 6 as a polluted region two and region 11 as a polluted region three. The obtained data were analyzed by ANOVA using SAS 9.4 software, comparison of averages was done with Duncan's test and graphs and statistical tables were drawn by Excel software. The difference of traits in three times was evaluated using t-test. Results and DiscussionData homogeneity test was not significant by Bartlett's test, which shows that the variances are homogeneous in four locations. Due to the homogeneity of the data and the non-significance of Bartlett's test, the data of this experiment were subjected to combined analysis. The results showed that the highest amount of ion leakage was obtained from regions 6 and 11. The highest relative humidity content was shown in regions 3 and 6. With the increase of environmental pollutants in regions 3 and 11 in compared to region1 ,the amount of anthocyanins and antioxidants increased. In addition, the activity of catalase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and superoxide dismutase enzymes in plantain tree leaves showed a significant increase in areas with more pollution (11, 6 and 3) due to lower sea level height and slope gradient in compared to region 1. Many researchers have also stated in numerous reports the existence of a relationship between the place of growth and its effect on the quality and quantity of phytochemical compounds of plants. In general, air pollution and decreasing sea level height and slope led to increased ion leakage, malondialdehyde, relative leaf water content, flavonoids, anthocyanins, antioxidants, phenols, and antioxidant enzyme activity. ConclusionsIn the present study, significant difference was observed in the phytochemical content, quantity and quality of these compounds, in plane trees (Platanus orientalis) growing along Valiasr Street in Tehran. Environmental conditions at the growth site play a key role in determining the quantity and quality of phytochemical characteristics by influencing the total amount of active substances, the composition of bioactive elements, and dry matter production. Among these, altitude above sea level is considered one of the most important environmental factors affecting the phytochemical composition of plants. In addition, other environmental factors that shape the climate of a region—such as temperature, humidity, and air quality—also influence the accumulation of physiological and phytochemical compounds in plants. Furthermore, Several studies have reported a relationship between the growing location and its impact on the quality and quantity of phytochemical compounds in plants.
Research Article
Medicinal Plants
Mahdi moradi; Hossein Nastari Nasr-abadi; Mohammadnaser Modoodi; vahid shamsabadi
Abstract
Introduction
Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is known for its production of essential oils and its medicinal-aromatic properties. Moldavian balm’s essential oil is used for food, cosmetics, flavorings, ...
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Introduction
Moldavian balm (Dracocephalum moldavica L.) is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is known for its production of essential oils and its medicinal-aromatic properties. Moldavian balm’s essential oil is used for food, cosmetics, flavorings, and pharmaceutical purposes. Abiotic stresses include drought, soil salinity, flooding, extremes of temperature, and contamination with organic pollutants and heavy metals hamper plant growth and productivity. In recent decades, heavy metal (HM) pollution has spread across the natural and anthropic ecosystems posing inevitable, serious health risks. Soil microbiota plays an important role in the sustainable production of the different types of agrosystems. Mycorrhizae (a combination of mycelium of the fungus and the roots of the plant) form networks that capture water and nutrients from the soil, which facilitate the acquisition of the plant. Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi play a crucial role in mitigating the oxidative damage caused by heavy metal stress in different plant species. Thus, interaction between mycorrhizae, and plants can be an excellent strategy for sustainable agricultural production The aim of this study was to determine the effects of mycorrhizal arbuscular on improving heavy metal tolerance in moldavian balm, a medicinal and aromatic plant.
Materials and Methods
An experiment was conducted to study the effect of AM fungi on growth characteristics and quantitative and qualitative yield of Moldavian Balm, under heavy metals stress at Research Greenhouses of College of Agriculture, University of Torbat-e Jam. Treatments included mycorrhiza (inoculated and non-inoculated) and heavy metals including lead (0, 150 and 300 mg.kg-1) and cadmium (0, 40 and 80 mg.kg-1) which were arranged in factorial based on completely randomized design with 4 replication. Growth criteria, yield components, essential oil content and photosynthetic pigments were evaluated. In this study, different morphological traits (plant height, root length, root volume, stem diameter, leaf length, leaf width, leaf area, stem diameter, number of branches), vegetative parameters (fresh and dry weight biomass, root fresh and dry weight), photosynthetic pigment concentrations and essential oil content were measured. Data analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using IBM SAS software (Version 9.1) and the differences between the means were assessed using Duncan’s multiple range tests at p≤ 0.05.
Results and Discussion
Results showed that with increasing the concentration of heavy metals in the soil especially Cd, most of the growth characteristics and yield components of the study plant were significantly reduced as compared to those of controls. Mycorrhizal inoculation improved these traits where plants were grown under heavy metals stress. The highest biomass fresh and dry weight was observed in mycorrhizal plants grown in non-contaminated medium, which was significantly higher than those of the other treatments. The highest biomass fresh weight was recorded in non-stressed mycorrhizal plants. Biomass of fresh weight in non-mycorrhizal plants of Pb150 did not differ significantly from that of mycorrhizal plants of Pb150. Fresh weight biomass in mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants stressed by Cd40 or Cd80 was lower compared to mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal plants grown in non-contaminated media or contaminated media with Pb150 or Pb300. Furthermore, the lowest Fresh weight biomass was observed in non-mycorrhizal plants stressed by Cd80. Root fresh and dry weight of mycorrhizal plants was significantly higher than that of non-mycorrhizal plants. With increasing Cd or Pb concentration in soil, root fresh and dry weight decreased as compared to that of the controls. Inoculation with mycorrhizal improved the photosynthetic pigment concentrations under heavy metals stress. The highest percentage of essential oil content (1.3% v/w) was observed in mycorrhizal plants stressed by Pb150, while the lowest percentage (0.53% v/w) was evident in non-mycorrhizal plants polluted with Cd80. With increasing concentration of the heavy metals, essential oil of moldavian balm was significantly decreased, but the essential oil content in mycorrhizal plants was significantly higher than that measured in non-mycorrhizals.
Conclusions
AM fungi are widely believed to support plant establishment in soils contaminated with heavy metals, because of their potential to strengthen defense system of the AM mediated plants to promote growth and development. Mycorrhizal inoculation of moldavian balm promoted plant growth and, in addition, mycorrhization enhanced yield as well as active substances in this plant grown in the heavy metals stress condition. However, these approaches show promise in mitigating the adverse effects of heavy metals stress and improve the overall health and productivity of plants. Based on the enhanced physiological and biochemical responses, as well as increased essential oil content, it is recommended to use arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi fertilization under heavy metals stress.
Research Article
Ornamental plants
M. Ayaseh; M. Kafi; M. Khansefid; M. Shokrpour; R. Naderi
Abstract
Introduction
Today, a significant factor limiting plant growth is the rising salinity of soil and water, which poses challenges to food security, ecological stability, and agricultural systems. Numerous studies indicate that salinity hampers seed germination and early plant development by inducing osmotic ...
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Introduction
Today, a significant factor limiting plant growth is the rising salinity of soil and water, which poses challenges to food security, ecological stability, and agricultural systems. Numerous studies indicate that salinity hampers seed germination and early plant development by inducing osmotic stress, ion toxicity, and oxidative stress. Utilizing salinity-tolerant aromatic plants in saline areas can effectively enhance landscapes. Therefore, cultivating valuable plant species that meet high ecological demands may be the best strategy to mitigate salinity stress in agriculture and natural resources. These species can serve as alternative crops for oil seed production, food products, fodder, and both medicinal and ornamental uses. Tanacetum parthenium, Achillea millefolium, and Zygophyllum eurypterum are examples of medicinal and aromatic herbaceous perennials with low input requirements. They can be grown for various purposes, including ornamental use in dry and saline climates, as well as in the food, perfumery, cosmetics, and medicinal industries. Successful cultivation of these valuable plants in stressful ecosystems necessitates investigating their early growth responses to salinity stress. This research aims to identify suitable conditions for the successful establishment of these plants, ultimately leading to increased production.
Materials and Methods
In order to investigate the physicochemical responses and the early growth of seedlings in the shoot and root of three plants, T. parthenium, A. millefolium and Z. eurypterum to different levels of zero salinity stress (control), 1.5, 3 and 6 dS.m-1, an experiment was conducted as factorial based on completely random design with three replications using a completely randomized design in a greenhouse under pot conditions in Department of Horticultural Science and Green Space Engineering at the University of Tehran. Seeds from three plant species—T. parthenium, A. millefolium, and Z. eurypterum—were obtained from the Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands (RIFR) in Karaj province, Iran. Prior to planting, the seeds were sterilized for one minute in a 2% sodium hypochlorite solution and then washed three times with sanitized water. The seeds were then planted in plastic pots (45, 66, and 23 cm) filled with a mixture of clay, sand, and perlite, at a depth of three centimeters, under greenhouse conditions. Sodium chloride was used to create salinity stress, exposing all studied plants to four salinity levels for a duration of six weeks. The greenhouse maintained a temperature of 20°C at night and 25°C during the day, with a relative humidity of 60-80%. All physiological and biochemical measurements were conducted after six weeks, once the plants were fully established. It is important to note that all samples were washed with distilled water post-sampling, the surface water was removed using filter paper, and samples were immediately stored at -80°C until measurements were taken.
Results and Discussion
The results of this study indicated that the concentration of photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, carotenoids, and total chlorophyll) decreased with increasing salinity levels, which correlated with a reduction in the growth length of both shoots and roots. The results indicated that under severe salinity stress, oxidative damage increased, leading to higher levels of fat peroxidation (MDA) and reduced cell membrane stability. This decrease in stability was linked to a reduction in photosynthetic pigments, ultimately disrupting optimal plant early growth. At all salinity levels, the total antioxidant capacity of A. millefolium leaves was greater than that of its roots. Among all three plants and salinity levels, the highest total antioxidant capacity of 78.57% was observed in the roots of Z. eurypterum under a salinity condition of 3 dS.m-1. Conversely, the lowest total antioxidant capacity, at 25.38%, was found in the leaves of T. parthenium under non-saline conditions. The results indicated that the potassium to sodium ratio at equilibrium varied significantly depending on the plant species, plant organ, and salinity concentration and the highest ratio was found in the aerial parts of T. parthenium.
Conclusions
Overall, based on the biochemical and physiological responses to salinity stress, all three plants exhibited a relatively high tolerance. However, the T. parthenium plant demonstrated the greatest tolerance to salinity stress among them. Therefore, the cultivation of these three species, which possess ornamental, aromatic, and medicinal value, can serve as a viable solution for the ecological sustainability of saline ecosystems and their integration into urban landscaping.
Acknowledgement
The authors are grateful for the scientific assistance of Dr. Behrouz Malekpour
Research Article
Postharvest physiology
L. Taghipour; P. Hayati; M. Hosseinifarahi; P. Assar
Abstract
Introduction
Physalis (Physalis peruviana L.), commonly known as Cape gooseberry or ground cherry, is a valuable member of the Solanaceae family. It is cultivated as a perennial crop in tropical regions and as an annual in temperate climates. The fruit is a spherical berry that can be consumed fresh, ...
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Introduction
Physalis (Physalis peruviana L.), commonly known as Cape gooseberry or ground cherry, is a valuable member of the Solanaceae family. It is cultivated as a perennial crop in tropical regions and as an annual in temperate climates. The fruit is a spherical berry that can be consumed fresh, dried, or processed into jams and desserts. Physalis fruits are rich in minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals known for their anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to their reputation as a "superfood." Globally, demand for this crop is increasing due to its health benefits, including in Iran, although comprehensive data on its cultivation within the country remains limited. As a climacteric fruit, Physalis has a very short postharvest shelf life—typically no more than five days—highlighting the need for safe and effective postharvest treatments to preserve quality and extend its marketability. To improve the storability and maintain the postharvest quality of physalis, researchers are exploring natural and safe treatment options. One such promising compound is melatonin, a pleiotropic molecule derived from tryptophan and endogenously synthesized in plant, animal, fungal, and prokaryotic cells. In plants, melatonin functions as a regulatory agent involved in numerous physiological processes, particularly in response to stress. It interacts with plant hormones and reactive species like hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), nitric oxide (NO), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), contributing to improved antioxidant activity, delayed senescence, and better stress tolerance. Thus, melatonin represents a promising and eco-friendly strategy to improve the shelf life, sensory quality, and marketability of physalis fruit. The aim of the present study was to improve the shelf life and postharvest quality of physalis fruits through melatonin treatment for distribution in local markets.
Materials and Methods
Fully orange-colored physalis fruits with completely yellow calyxes were harvested from a commercial greenhouse in Pasargad, Fars province. The fruits were quickly transported to the lab, visually evaluated, washed with deionized water, and air-dried. The experimental design was a factorial arrangement based on a completely randomized design (CRD), consisting of 12 treatments with three replicates per treatment (20 fruits per replicate). The experimental factors included fruit immersion in four levels of melatonin solution concentration (100, 200, and 300 µM, with distilled water as the control) and sampling time at three levels (7, 14, and 21 days of storage). Following the preparation of melatonin solutions at different concentrations, sixty fruits were immersed in each solution for five minutes. The treated fruits were air-dried for 30 minutes, then packaged in polyethylene bags with 3% perforation and stored at 10 °C under 90 ± 5% relative humidity for 21 days. Assessments were carried out at weekly intervals.
Results and Discussion
Overall, postharvest treatment with melatonin led to a reduction in respiration rate and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity in the juice, as well as an improvement or maintenance of skin carotenoid content, total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), ascorbic acid, total phenols, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) enzyme activity, and total antioxidant activity in the juice. After 21 days of storage and at the end of the experiment, the assessment of all these attributes revealed that fruits treated with 300 μM melatonin were superior in terms of nutritional value, appearance, and postharvest oxidative stress response mechanisms compared to the other experimental groups. There was no significant difference in total soluble solids and titratable acidity among the fruits treated with different concentrations of melatonin; however, fruits treated with the two higher concentrations of melatonin showed the lowest respiration rate and the highest ascorbic acid content in the juice. Furthermore, fruits treated with 300 μM melatonin exhibited higher levels of total phenols, PAL enzyme activity, total antioxidant activity, and skin carotenoids compared to all other experimental groups, while also showing the lowest PPO enzyme activity.
Conclusions
Treating physalis fruits with exogenous melatonin, especially at concentration of 300 μM, can significantly enhance their postharvest quality and storability by modulating various physiological and biochemical processes. This approach has the potential to improve the marketability and economic value of harvested physalis as a high-value horticultural crop.
Research Article
Pomology
S.A. Mousavi; M. Tatari
Abstract
Introduction
Peach×almond (GN) hybrid rootstocks have favorable characteristics such as ease of rooting, favorable growth vigour, resistance to nematodes, calcareous and dry soil (Babadaei et al., 2018). Currently, water deficiency caused by reduced rainfall is a major concern and a critical limitation ...
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Introduction
Peach×almond (GN) hybrid rootstocks have favorable characteristics such as ease of rooting, favorable growth vigour, resistance to nematodes, calcareous and dry soil (Babadaei et al., 2018). Currently, water deficiency caused by reduced rainfall is a major concern and a critical limitation for agricultural production (Hass et al., 2021). Under drought stress, plant cell membranes become more susceptible to electrolyte leakage. Membrane leakage is caused by uncontrolled free radicals and leads to lipid peroxidation (Cheng et al., 2018). Since tolerance to drought stress is the result of the interaction of morphological and physiological traits of plant, therefore, a combination of different traits that have a direct relationship with drought tolerance can be used as selection criteria to screen the ideal cultivar (Karimi et al., 2015).
Materials and Methods
This research carried out during the years 2020 and 2021 at the Chahartakhteh station affiliated to the Center for Research and Education of Agriculture and Natural Resources in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province. The almond seedlings included Shahroud 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 13 and 21, that all of them grafted on the GN rootstock, along with GN rootstock, subjected to different drought stress treatments in June for four months. Drought stress treatments included 70% of field capacity (control or no drought stress), 50% field capacity (mild stress), 30% field capacity (moderate stress) and 10% field capacity (severe stress). A counter determined the amount of irrigation in each treatment, and a Time-Domain Reflectometry (TDR) used to measure the soil moisture. Before the experiment, the physicochemical properties of the soil measured. The measured morphological traits included leaf area, percentage of leaf abscission, and shoot fresh and dry weight. These traits measured four months after subjecting to water stress. The evaluated physiological traits included electrolyte leakage (EL), relative leaf water content (RWC), leaf chlorophyll, proline and malondialdehyde (MDA). These traits also measured four months after subjecting to water stress. The experiment conducted in split plots based on a randomized complete block design in three replications and four seedlings in each experimental unit. The main plot included water drought treatments and the sub plot included almond cultivars. Data analysis carried out using SAS software version 9.2 and comparison of mean data conducted based on LSD test at a five percent probability level.
Results and Discussion
As the intensity of drought stress increased, the fresh and dry weight of shoot decreased in almond cultivars and GN rootstock. At soil humidity of 10% field capacity, Shahroud 8 showed higher amounts of shoot fresh weight (785 g). The lowest fresh and dry weight of the shoot and the highest leaf abscission were observed under severe drought stress (10% of the field capacity) in Shahroud 13. The increase in drought levels led to a decrease in the leaf area in the studied cultivars and rootstock of almond. Shahroud 8 had more chlorophyll content than other cultivars at the most severe stress level, and Shahroud 13 showed the lowest chlorophyll b content at 10% humidity of field capacity. A significant decrease in leaf chlorophyll concentration under drought stress has also been reported in previous research (Schlemmer et al., 2005; Gohari et al., 2023). A further decrease in chlorophyll could be due to a drastic decrease in RWC under severe stress conditions. According to Ranjbar et al. (2022), the amount of RWC decreased by 32 to 44% under stress conditions in the K13-40 grafted cultivar on the rootstock of bitter almond No. 32. In the current research, the biggest decrease in RWC was in Shahroud 13 with a decrease of 36.85%. The lowest decrease in RWC was also observed in the GN rootstock with a decrease of 20.94%. Shahroud 13 and GN rootstock showed the highest and lowest electrolyte leakage at the highest stress level, respectively. Karimi et al. (2013) also found a significant increase in EL in White, Mamai and Ferragnes cultivars due to the higher sensitivity of these cultivars to water loss. The most difference in MDA value was observed in Shahroud 13 with an increase of 186.35% and the lowest difference was found in Shahroud 10 with an increase of 84.58%. Shahroud 6 produced the highest content of proline under severe water stress. According to the results, Shahroud 13 and then Shahroud 6 were recognized as the most sensitive cultivars. Shahroud 8 and 12 were among the tolerant cultivars. Other cultivars were also between these two groups.
Conclusions
Shahroud 13 was recognized as the most sensitive cultivar with the lowest fresh and dry weight, RWC and the highest ion leakage and MDA at the most severe stress level. After that, Shahroud 6 had high sensitivity. Shahroud 8 was recognized as the most drought tolerant cultivar due to its lowest MDA content, the highest chlorophyll a and b and RWC in the most level of drought. After Shahroud 8, Shahroud 12 was including the tolerant cultivars. Tolerant cultivars can be used in future studies to evaluate the possibility of planting these cultivars in areas with water shortage problems.
Research Article
Ornamental plants
A. Akrami; H. Bayat; S. Daghighi; M.H. Aminifard
Abstract
Introduction
Narcissus is the most important early-season blooming flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. N. tazetta is a valuable plant for cosmetics, cut flowers, and landscape plants. The growth and flower quality of narcissus could be improved by adopting proper cultural practices ...
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Introduction
Narcissus is the most important early-season blooming flowering plant that belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family. N. tazetta is a valuable plant for cosmetics, cut flowers, and landscape plants. The growth and flower quality of narcissus could be improved by adopting proper cultural practices and application of plant nutrients. Narcissus is one of the geophyte plants; therefore, one of the important and influencing factors on the growth and performance of narcissus is the appropriate planting date, especially in the first year. Bio-fertilizers can be mentioned among the new and effective sources of fertilizer that are used in plant nutrition today. These fertilizers contain useful soil microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes with their metabolites that stimulate the quantitative and qualitative performance of the plant in different ways. Since there is little information about the effect of planting and environmental conditions, including the date of planting, nutrition with bio-fertilizers and irrigation on Narcissus tazetta. Therefore, the investigation of these factors can help the cultivation of narcissus plant in South Khorasan region. Therefore, the aim of this research was to study the effect of planting dates, summer irrigation and EM bio-fertilizer on the growth and reproductive characteristics of N. tazetta cv. Shahla in South Khorasan region.
Materials and Methods
To investigate the effect of planting date, summer irrigation and EM bio fertilizer on the growth, ornamental and physiological traits of Narcissus tazetta cv. Shahla, an experiment in the form of randomized complete block design with three replications during crop years 2021-2022 in Qaen city of South Khorasan province was implemented. The experimental treatments were bulb planting on July 1 without irrigation, bulb planting on July 1 with irrigation, bulb planting on July 1 along with irrigation with EM fertilizer, bulb planting on September 1 without irrigation, bulb planting on September 1 along with irrigation, and bulb planting on September 1 along with irrigation with EM. The measured indices including vegetative characteristics (number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width and plant height), reproductive traits (corona diameter, flower length, flower diameter, stem diameter, flowering stem length, number of flowers per square meter and number of flowers per stem), physiological traits (total chlorophyll, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoid content) and leaf nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium). Finally, the experimental data were statistically analyzed using SAS, JMP Statistical Discovery Pro v13.2.1 program and comparison of means was performed by LSD test at 5% probability level.
Results and Discussion
The results showed that the maximum amount of leaf length and plant height was obtained from the bulbs planted in September and were irrigated with EM fertilizer. However, the highest number of leaves and leaf width were obtained from the bulbs planted in July along with irrigation with EM fertilizer. Planting the bulbs in July along with irrigation had the highest diameter of the flower corona and the length of the flowering stem. In the second year of the experiment, the maximum flower diameter was obtained from the bulbs planted on July 1 with irrigation (3.61 cm). The results showed that the number of flowers per square meter in both years of the experiment was affected by the date of planting and irrigation, so that the bulbs planted on July 1 with irrigation and irrigation with EM fertilizer had the highest number of flowers. The highest number of flowers on the flowering stem was obtained from the treatments of planting bulbs on July 1 (7.21 flowers per square meter) and September 1 (1.7 flowers per square meter) along with bio-fertilizer. In addition, the highest total chlorophyll, carotenoid, nitrogen and potassium content was obtained from September culture. Enhancing the supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, a key mechanism of bio fertilizers, promotes the development and reinforcement of floral structures in the terminal meristem of the bud during the phases of cell meiosis in summer and the stimulation of flower buds, which ultimately boosts the yield of the narcissus flower farm.
Conclusions
The results of this research showed that planting the bulbs in September and using EM bio-fertilizer improved the vegetative characteristics of narcissus flower. In addition, the results showed that the planting of bulbs in July and irrigation in summer improved the reproductive characteristics of N. tazetta cv. Shahla. Overall, the results indicate that planting narcissus bulbs on July 1, along with summer irrigation, significantly increases the yield of narcissus flower in South Khorasan province.
Research Article
Pomology
M. Ghazaeian; D. Hassani; S. Zamani; M. Adibi
Abstract
Introduction
The Juglandaceae family includes about 50 species of 11 genera of which Carya (hickory tree), Pterocarya (wingnut tree), and Juglans are the major members. The pecan, Carya illinoinensis is the most economically important member of the Carya genus and is the most valuable native North American ...
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Introduction
The Juglandaceae family includes about 50 species of 11 genera of which Carya (hickory tree), Pterocarya (wingnut tree), and Juglans are the major members. The pecan, Carya illinoinensis is the most economically important member of the Carya genus and is the most valuable native North American nut crop. The Carya genus comprises 20 species.
Materials and Methods
Golestan province is located in the northern temperate region between 37.2898° N, 55.1376° E from the Greenwich meridian and in the northern part of the country. The amount of precipitation reaches 200 mm in the northernmost part of the province and more than 700 mm in the southern parts of Alborz foothills. Temperature varies across different parts of the province, generally increasing from west to east and from south to north. The genotypes used in this project are G4, G3, G43, G63, which were selected and propagated from the elite trees available in the province after quantitative and qualitative evaluation, and the cultivars are Mahan and Comanche, which were propagated from grafted trees of the Dezful Research Center collection. Grafted seedlings were produced using thethermal cable technique and planted in the specified locations in the above 2 regions. Grafted trees from 4 elite genotypes of Golestan (G4,G3,G43,G63) plus Comanch and Mahan 2 commercial cultivars have been studied in randomized completely block design (RCBD) for 3 years in two regions. In the second phase of experiment, the fruit characters and yield evaluated based on pecan descriptor. The results were analyzed by SAS statistical software and the reactions of genotypes were evaluated in different places and during different years.
Results and Discussion
This evaluation was conducted during the years 2021 to 2024 at Chalki research station of the Golestan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center in Gorgan and on the farmer's land located in Igder village, located 30 km from Gonbad city. Measurements were conducted on fruits harvested in 2022 and 2023. During both years, the Mahan cultivar did not produce a sufficient number of fruits in either region and was therefore excluded from the comparison. A significant effect of location and year was observed only for the fruit weight trait. Among the genotypes, G43 exhibited the highest fruit weight (11.75 g) and demonstrated vigorous growth with a broad canopy in both locations. However, fruit yield over the two years of evaluation showed no significant differences among the studied cultivars and genotypes across the two regions.Due to the results of the first phase, the maximum tree height was in Mahan (242.5 cm) and the lowest height in G63 (118.66 cm). The maximum canopy spread was in comanch (138.72 cm) and the lowest was in G63 (90.11 cm).There were significantly differences between two regions. The length of the growing season among cultivars was 257 days in Gonbad and 237 to 247 days in Gorgan. Study of dichogamy during the years 2021-2022 in the cultivars and genotypes showed two cultivars Comanche and Mahan were protandry in Gorgan, while both cultivars showed protogyny in Gonbad. Also, 4 genotypes of the province (G3, G4, G43, G63) showed protogyny.
Conclusions
This project, conducted over both vegetative and reproductive phases, evaluated elite pecan germplasm within the province. The objective was to utilize the region’s existing genetic potential and to compare it with commercially available cultivars in the country, with the goal of identifying and promoting superior genotypes for the establishment and expansion of new orchards in Golestan Province. The results of the two phases of this research showed that some of the introduced genotypes have the ability to compete with the existing commercial cultivars, which will require further investigation in the years of peak fruiting and maturity of the tree. The length of the growing season among cultivars was 257 days in Gonbad area and 237 to 247 days in Gorgan. Also, the effects of drought conditions in Golestan province during 2021-2022 should be included in the relative determination of the results. As a summary, based on the evaluation of these two phases and considering the growth and fruiting conditions, two genotypes G4, G43 and G63 can be considered as promising genotypes for development.
Acknowledgement
The authors consider it necessary to appreciate the support of Horticultural Sciences Research Institute (HSRI) and Golestan Agriculture and Natural Resources Research and Education Center in the implementation of this project.
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