Volume 26, No. 4 (December, 2025)

1. González Franco M. J., Yurkina A. I.* And Kroupin P. Yu. [Allopolyploidy and genomic diversity in the genus Elymus L. (Triticeae): Insights and future research directions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 539-554 (2025). All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology ARRIAB, Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: aaaaaa3197@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

The genus Elymus L. (wild rye) is the largest and evolutionary most complex allopolyploid genus in the wheat tribe (Triticeae), serving as a model for studying plant speciation and genome evolution. This review summarises current data on the origin and genomic architecture of the genus, with a focus on the debated question of the origin of the Y-genome. Two competing hypotheses are analysed: the origin of the Y-genome from the St-genome via differentiation, and its independent origin from an unknown diploid ancestor close to the V-genome. It is shown that Elymus species are a valuable source of unique genes for resistance to biotic (Fusarium head blight, leaf rust) and abiotic (drought) stresses. Advances in the field of distant hybridisation and chromosome engineering are reviewed, with special attention paid to the application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) for studying the genetics and breeding of Elymus species, as well as achievements in cytogenetic studies using in situ hybridisation techniques. It is concluded that further comprehensive studies of the genus Elymus, integrating genomic and cytogenetic methods, are key to both unravelling the fundamental mechanisms of polyploid evolution and developing resilient cereal cultivars.

2. Êh. X. Karshiboev*, Z. A. Ochilov, N. X. Yusupov, Z. I. Usarov, A. A. Kholdorov, D. Kh. Khalikulov and M. A. Juraev [Heat-resistant germplasm and breeding lines for developing durum wheat under rainfed conditions of Uzbekistan]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 555-561 (2025). Scientific Research Institute of Rainfed Agriculture Jizzax Region, Uzbekistan *(e-mail: hasankarshiboev1984@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Durum wheat, a crop of high economic importance, is severely affected by rising temperatures and recurrent heat stress, particularly under rainfed conditions. Heat during flowering and grain filling reduces spike fertility, grain size, and overall yield by 20–30%, threatening food security in regions like Uzbekistan. Since heat resistance is genetically determined, breeding heat-tolerant and early ripening durum wheat varieties with stable yields under drought-prone, rainfed conditions have become an urgent necessity. Based on this, a study was conducted at the Scientific Research Institute of Rainfed Agriculture, Jizzax Region, Uzbekistan to evaluate the heat resistance of 25 nursery collections and 27 competitive variety trial samples of durum wheat under rainfed conditions. Heat tolerance was assessed through seed heating at +54 °C for 20 minutes followed by germination, root and coleoptile growth analysis, and by determining the coagulation temperature of water-soluble proteins in leaves. Over three years of study, the germination percentage of heat-treated seeds varied from –1 to 8% compared with the standard, enabling the identification of promising heat-tolerant lines for breeding. The length of durum wheat coleoptile was from 3.5 cm to 4.7 cm, while that of the norm was 3.8 cm. By results of the research 6 vareity samples (No. 14 Mrb3*2/Amar, No. 20 Miki 3, No. 9 Nemesis 1, No. 11 Myperno, No. 11 Pi 277012, No. 19 MIX 1314), 7 varieties and lines (Marvarid, Kumushdon, RNS-2022 /14, RNS-2022/20, RNS-2022/23, RNS-2022/25, RNS-2022/27), 5 lines (RNS -2022/7, RNS-2022/20, RNS-2022/25, RNS-2022/26, RNS-2022/27) were selected with a high seed germination after heating and based on the coagulation temperature of water-soluble proteins in Durum Wheat leaves. Selecting heat-tolerant, early-maturate, and high-yielding durum wheat varieties is crucial for regions with high temperatures and low rainfall. As a result of the study, promising varieties and lines were identified based on high seed germination after heat treatment and the coagulation temperature of water-soluble proteins in leaves.

3. Plotnikova Lyudmila Ya*, Knaub Valeriya V, Skolotneva Ekaterina S, Kelbin Vasiliy N, Fomenko Vladislav V and Shcherban Andrey B [Complex biofungicide novoñhizol-S and its components: Cytophysiological assessment of effectiveness for treating bread wheat]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 562-568 (2025). Omsk State Agrarian University named after P.A. Stolypin Institutskaya pl. 1, Omsk, 644008, Russia *(e-mail: lya.plotnikova@omgau.org)

ABSTRACT

Chitosan-based preparations are promising for the biological plant protection from fungal diseases. The biopesticide novochizol (Nov) is a globular form of chitosan and has several advantages over linear derivatives. The effect of Nov can be enhanced by creating complexes with substances having a synergistic effect. The aim of the work was to evaluate the effectiveness of the complex Nov with the sulphur (Nov-S) and its separate components for the defense of bread wheat Triticum aestivum L. against stem rust caused by the fungus Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt). The experiments were carried out at the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the cytological studies were performed at Omsk State Agrarian University (Russia) in 2025. The studies were carried out on seedlings of the susceptible to stem rust spring bread wheat variety infected with a sample of the Pgt population. During the experiment, plant reactions to infection were assessed after pre-treatment with Nov, colloidal S, and Nov-S. To understand the effects of the preparations, studies were carried out on the pathogen development and the dynamics of defense reactions using cytochemical methods. On Nov-treated plants, partial suppression of the appressoria development on the leaf surface, and disruption of penetration into the tissues due to Reaction Oxygen Species (ROS) generation on the stomata, and the induction of hydrogen peroxide and phenolic substances synthesis were observed. The fungicidal S affect led to the full inhibition of pathogen development before penetration into the stomata, but significant damage of plant tissues was noted. Pre-treatment with the Nov-S complex caused a sharp decrease in the pustule number per leaf (22 times compared to the control) with minimal plant damage. The main protective mechanisms of Nov-S-treated were the inhibition of appressoria formation and fungus stopping after the penetration into the stomata. There was an intensive accumulation of H2O2 and phenolic substances with different spectral characteristics in the zones of rare colonies and small pustules. The Nov-S complex is of interest as a biofungicide for protecting wheat from rust diseases.

4. Natalia V. Varlamova, Olga D. Zinov’eva, Mikhail G. Divashuk and Oleg S. Alexandrov* [Influence of explant type on the in vitro regeneration process of Russian rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) varieties]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 569-574 (2025). All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology 127550 Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: olegsandrov@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Rapeseed is an important oilseed crop whose importance has increased due to the use of rapeseed oil as biodiesel. The study of the rapeseed genome has made the issue of its editing more relevant. An important part of genome editing is the regeneration of plants in vitro. However, regeneration conditions (composition of the nutrient medium, type of explant, etc.) often vary between genotypes/varieties, and selecting the optimal in vitro protocol is a primary task when genome editing of a particular genotype/variety is required. In this study, a comparison of three types of explants (stem, hypocotyl, cotyledons) was carried out in three Russian rapeseed varieties (‘Triumph’, ‘Yarilo’, ‘Favorit’) on MS nutrient medium containing 4 mg/L 6-BAP, 0.2 mg/l NAA and 5 mg/L silver nitrate. The average values of the regenerated explant proportions across replicates ranged from 15.7 (“hypocotyl-Favorit”) to 66.7% (“stem-Triumph”). Two-way ANOVA with a Duncan’s test revealed that the “stem-Triumph” and “stem-Yarilo” variants were the best and significantly different from the others. The average number of regenerants per explant varied from 1.90 (“cotyledons-Yarilo”) to 4.79 (“hypocotyl-Yarilo”). The variants “stem-Triumph”, “hypocotyl-Triumph” and “stem-Favorite” with values of 4.20, 4.16 and 3.68, respectively, did not differ significantly from the best variant. Thus, the “stem-Triumph” variant showed the best results of the regenerated explant proportion and number of regenerants per explant. This result is very promising and will be used in the development of an in vitro protocol for genome editing of the Triumph rapeseed variety.

5. Uum Umiyati*, Denny Kurniadie and Aulia Zahrah [Efficacy of 240 g/L oxyfluorfen herbicide formulations for weed management in soybean (Glycine max L.)]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 575-582 (2025). Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture Universitas Padjadjaran Jl. Raya Bandung-Sumedang Km. 2, Jatinangor, Sumedang 45363, West Java, Indonesia *(e-mail: uum.umiyati@unpad.ac.id)

ABSTRACT

Soybean production in Indonesia remains insufficient to meet national demand, largely due to severe weed competition that limits crop access to light, nutrients, water, and growing space. These weeds cause significant yield losses and persist as a major constraint for farmers. Therefore, effective and environmentally safe weed control strategies, including oxyfluorfen-based herbicides, must be assessed to enhance soybean productivity. This study evaluated the effectiveness of 240 g/L oxyfluorfen in suppressing weeds in soybean cultivation and identified the optimal application dose. The experiment was conducted from 9 August to 30 November 2024 at the Karawang Research Farm, West Java, Indonesia under a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments and four replications was used, consisting of five oxyfluorfen doses (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 L/ha), manual weeding, and an untreated control. The results of the study showed that the oxyfluorfen herbicide 240 g/L at doses of 1.0–3.0 L/ha was able to control dominant weeds such as Amaranthus spinosus, Cleome rutidosperma, Cyperus rotundus, and Portulaca oleracea. There were also no symptoms of plant phytotoxicity. Herbicide application at a dose of 1.5 to 3.0 L/ha can produce optimal soybean plant height (60.69 cm). The use of doses of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 L/ha also resulted in high dry seed weight per plot (1.75 kg, 1.82 kg, and 1.76 kg), which exceeded the results of manual weeding and controls, without causing signs of toxicity in soybean plants.

6. OLGA V. RAZUMOVA, OLEG S. ALEXANDROV, VARVARA A. KOROBKOVA, YULIYA N. SMOTROVA* AND DMYTRY V. ROMANOV [Problems of the Citrus L. taxonomy and possible ways of their solution: A review]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 583-597 (2025). All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology Timiryazevskaya 42, 127550 Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: juliksmotrova@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

The genus Citrus of the Rutaceae family is one of the most important in world fruit growing, but its taxonomy and evolutionary history remain among the most controversial and complex areas of phylogenetic research. Existing classification systems often contradict each other, and defining species boundaries is a serious methodological problem. This review examines modern approaches to Citrus taxonomy and analyzes the causes of existing differences, which are rooted in a long history of domestication, large-scale hybridization, biological features such as apomixis, and significant morphological variability. Attempts to reconcile conflicting classifications are also being evaluated, including the use of genome-wide sequencing methods, which, although they clarified the origin of some species, did not resolve taxonomic ambiguities in general. As a result of the analysis, it is concluded that in order to create a unified and universally recognized classification system for the genus Citrus, integration of genomic, morphological and historical data is necessary, which, despite all efforts, has not yet been achieved.

7. Oleg S. Alexandrov* and Dmitry V. Romanov [Study of the polymorphism between Citrus L. spp. using OrV890 minisatellite molecular marker]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 598-603 (2025). 1All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology 127550 Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: olegsandrov@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Plants of the Citrus L. genus are genetically closely related and crossbreed easily, forming interspecific hybrids. The pedigree of many cultivars (or groups of cultivars) can be difficult to trace, so molecular markers that detect polymorphism between Citrus plants are valuable tools for studying them. DNA markers developed using minisatellite loci are often effective in detecting polymorphism even between closely related genomes. The OrV890 minisatellite DNA marker recently developed in the Orange ‘Valencia’ genome was tested on 7 orange cultivars by electronic-PCR (e-PCR). In this study, the OrV890 marker was tested with 48 genotypes of Citrus genus using PCR and fragment analysis. These experiments showed the presence of PCR products for 21 samples and no amplification found for 27 samples. Eight alleles of the studied locus were detected. The fragments of 736 and 750 bp in length were found more frequently than others, while the 771 (in Myrtle-leaved bitter orange), 867 (Lime ‘Kaffir’ and Orange ‘Canaliculata’), 756 (Orangelo ‘Chironja’), 760 (Lime ‘Palestinian sweet’), and 768 bp (Tangor ‘Honey Artounik’) alleles found rare. The 769 bp allele was observed in pomelo variety and their hybrids only. The absence of amplification was observed in lemon, kumquat, and some lime varieties, as well as in a whole group of orange varieties (American varieties), most mandarin varieties, and one grapefruit variety (‘Star Ruby’). Thus, the experimental results showed that the OrV890 marker can be useful for analysis of hybrids, establishing the origin of Citrus plant varieties, as well as for creating breeding programs and accelerating the breeding process.

8. Oleg S. Alexandrov* and Dmitry V. Romanov [Study of the U6 small nuclear RNA genes in the Citrus limon (L.) Osbeck genome and amplification of the U6 gene regions among Citrus spp.]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 604-610 (2025). All-Russia Research Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology 127550 Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: olegsandrov@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

The small nuclear RNA gene U6 is required for spliceosome formation in cells. Being “housekeeping genes,” these genes are relatively conserved across species, but have highly variable promoter regions. In practice, the promoters of U6 genes are used in vectors for genome editing, ensuring the synthesis of guide RNA in the cell of the organism being edited. In many CRISPR/Cas9 vectors, the arabidopsis U6 gene promoter is used, but replacing it with endogenous promoters often increases the efficiency of genome editing. Citrus plants are important crops worldwide, so improving genome editing systems for them is highly relevant. Therefore, the aim of this work was to search for lemon-specific endogenous promoters of U6 genes and their amplification in different citrus plant genomes. BLAST analysis with the tomato U6 gene sequence revealed six loci in the lemon genome that contained the U6 gene. The sequences of these loci became the basis for the design of specific primers. Primers were tested using electronic and classical PCR. In most Citrus species, experiments showed single-copy nature of the studied loci and correspondence between the lengths of expected and obtained PCR products. Only in the case of the ‘Buddha’s Hand’ citron variety, there was no amplification with primers Le62_1f/Le62_1r and there was amplification of two fragments with primers Le63_1f/Le63_1r, the lengths of which did not correspond to the expected ones. Overall, the primers developed and presented in this article may be useful to improve the vectors for genome editing of citrus plants, as well as to perform fundamental studies of U6 genes.

9. IRINA BALAKHNINA*, ALEXEY PACHKIN, DANIIL LEPTYAGIN, ALENA NESTEROVA, IGOR POPOV, TATIANA DOROSHENKO AND IRINA Chebotok [Insect monitoring using standard and innovative devices in new and fruiting apple orchards in Southern Russia]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 611-617 (2025). Federal Research Center of Biological Plant Protection Krasnodar, 350039, Russia *(e-mail: balakhnina@yandex.ru)

ABSTRACT

To develop ecological and organic gardening technologies, it is important to study the entomofauna of agrocenoses and ecosystems. The aim of the research is to study biodiversity using various devices and methods in new and fruiting apple orchards. Monitoring included visual counts, mowing with an entomological net, pheromone traps, and light traps. The research was carried out in organic, new and fruiting apple orchards from 2024 to 2025 in the suburbs of Krasnodar. When analyzing the results of the material obtained with various methods in 2024-2025, 47 phytophagous species from 10 orders feeding on apple trees were registered, 14 of which were the most dangerous, for all types of fruiting orchards. Using pheromone traps, the flight characteristics of three species of codling moths: apple Cydia pomonella the oriental Grapholita molesta and the plum Grapholita funebrana were determined for new and fruiting orchards. When monitoring light traps, Lepidoptera species from 14 families were the most diverse and abundant. The majority belonged to the family Noctuidae, comprising 15 species. The total number of the Noctuidae family representatives was 854, of which 499 were found in the fruiting orchard and 355 in the new one. A total of 79 insect species were recorded, 71 of which were in the fruiting apple orchard and 74 in the new one. Primary consumers (phytophages) accounted for 59.15% and 56.76%, in the fruiting apple orchard and new one, respectively. Insects from the Lepidoptera order, neutral to apple trees but harmful to other crops, were identified: three species of Noctuidae, four species of Pyraustidae, and a food-storage pests from Pyralidae. Processing the obtained data using the Margalef diversity index revealed that the difference in both orchards was insignificant: 4.8 ± 0.7 in the fruiting orchard and 4.4 ± 0.9 in the new orchard. This indicates a depleted insect fauna.

10. Alaa Salih Ati*, Hadeel A. Wahaib and Shaima Sami Dawod [Optimising productivity and water use efficiency of potato and faba bean intercropping through secondary tillage implements under arid regions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 618-625 (2025). College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq *(e-mail: alaa.salih@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq)

ABSTRACT

Water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions demands efficient irrigation and soil management to sustain crop production. Investigating the effect of different soil equipment on the productivity and water use efficiency of intercropped potato and faba bean can optimise water utilisation, minimise losses, and improve yield under modern sustainable agricultural practices. To further investigate, a field experiment was conducted during the 2024-25 growing seasons in Al-Rasheed sub-district to evaluate the effect of different soil equipment on the productivity and water use efficiency of intercropped potato and faba bean. The study aimed to optimise irrigation scheduling and identify the best tillage method under intercropping conditions in arid regions using drip irrigation. The field was arranged in a Randomised Complete Block Design with three replicates, and irrigation was scheduled based on soil moisture depletion levels (35% and 40% of available water), monitored by GS3 soil moisture sensors. Results showed the seasonal water consumption of potato was 293 mm, 315 mm and 335 mm under the rotary tiller, disc harrow, and cultivator treatments, respectively, during the 2024 autumn season, with a crop growth duration of 93 days, while the seasonal water consumption of faba bean under the same treatments, which was 535 mm, 472 mm, and 500 mm under the rotary tiller, disc harrow, and cultivator, respectively, during the 2024-25 season, with a growth duration of 141 days. The results indicate the presence of statistically significant differences in FWUE values depending on the type of tillage equipment (reduced tillage). For potato, the rotary treatment resulted in the highest field water use efficiency, reaching 37.56 kg/m³, with an increase of 22.58% and 65% compared to the disc harrow and cultivator treatments, respectively. In contrast, the disc harrow treatment produced the highest FWUE for faba bean, with a value of 0.50 kg/m³, representing an increase of 31.57% and 56.25% over the rotary tiller and cultivator treatments, respectively.

11. RASHA RAAD MOHAMMED*, NABIL J. AL-AMIRY AND MAHA A. HUSSEIN [Influence of salicylic acid, calcium and iron on yield improvement and storage quality in potato processing]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 626-632 (2025). 1Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq *(e-mail: rasha.raad@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq)

ABSTRACT

Potato has emerged as an important alternative to major staples like rice and wheat, yet rising food security challenges and high input costs threaten its sustainable production. Industrial potato cultivation demands high nutrient inputs, making crops vulnerable to soil depletion, stress, and reduced processing quality. Therefore, evaluating foliar supplementation with salicylic acid, calcium, and iron is essential to enhance growth, yield efficiency, and storage performance under spring and autumn conditions. This study aimed to explore the potential of improving both the production efficiency and postharvest storage behaviour of industrial-grade potato (Hermes hybrid) by applying different nutritional treatments. Two experiments, one field-based and one in cold storage, were conducted during 2022-2023 seasons at the College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad. A Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications was used with three factors (3×3×2×3). The first factor involved foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) at three concentrations: 0, 75, and 100 mg/L, labelled SA0, SA1 and SA2, respectively. The second factor consisted of calcium spraying at two concentrations: 0 and 2 ml/L, labelled Ca0 and Ca1. The third factor included foliar application of iron at three concentrations: 0, 1, and 2 ml/L, labelled Fe0, Fe1and Fe2. All possible combinations of these treatments were examined. The storage experiment, conducted in a private sector cold storage facility, followed the same experimental layout used in the field trial. The results of the triple interaction of the studied factors in the field experiment showed that foliar spraying with salicylic acid at a concentration of 100 mg/L, calcium at a concentration of 2 ml/L, and iron at a concentration of 2 ml/L (SA2Ca1Fe2) significantly enhanced vegetative growth, achieved the highest plant height (95.67, 93.00) cm and number of aerial stems 7.76 and 3.89 stems/plant for both seasons, respectively. The same treatment also excelled in Quantitative Yield traits, Marketable yield per plant 631.30 g, Marketable yield 33.67 t/ha in Autumn. In the storage experiment (SA2Ca1Fe2) significantly enhanced the percentage of dry matter, tuber hardness, and specific gravity, reaching 11.97kg/cm2, 23.88% and 1.114, respectively.

12. Rawaa G. Majeed Al-Helfie*, Abeer D. Salman and Yasamen F. Saloom [Interactive effects of coco peat and organic fermented foliar sprays on growth, yield, and quality of cauliflower (Brassica oleracea)]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 633-640 (2025). Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening, College of Agriculture Engineering Sciences, University of Baghdad, Iraq *(e-mail: rawa@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq)

ABSTRACT

Sustainable agriculture requires eco-friendly inputs to improve crop productivity while reducing reliance on chemicals. Coco peat enhances root growth and nutrient availability, while fermented fish waste and sugarcane juice provide essential nutrients and growth stimulants. To further evaluate, a study was carried out during the fall season of 2024–2025 at University of Baghdad – Al-Jadiryah campus. Following standard field preparation, cauliflower (Brassica oleracea cv. Casper) saplings were transplanted on October 15, 2024, into raised beds in double rows (75 cm × 40 cm). The trial was conducted as a 5×3 factorial experiment in a split-plot RCBD, with coco peat as the main plot and foliar sprays as subplot. The main plot comprised of application of coco peat at three rates (0, 2, and 4 kg/m²), while the sub plot involved foliar application of sugarcane juice ferment and fish waste ferment at two concentrations each (3 and 6 mL/L), in addition to a distilled water control. The results showed that the two-way interaction between 4 kg/m² of coco peat and foliar application of fish ferment at 6 mL/L significantly enhanced vegetative growth, resulting in the highest number of leaves (35.33 leaves/plant), largest leaf area (38.08 dm²), and highest chlorophyll content (50.10 SPAD units). The same treatment also excelled in plant yield traits (flower head diameter, flower head weight and total yield), recording 24.33 cm, 2.12 kg, and 70.83 t/ha, respectively. The treatment also gave the highest content of secondary metabolites (folic acid, choline and sulforaphane) in flower heads with values of 133.2 mg/g, 66.04 mg/100 g, and 49.07 mg/100g, respectively, while the control treatment recorded the highest nitrate concentration in the flower heads at 841.3 mg/100 g.

13. SANTOSH D. T., DEBASHIS MANDAL, PENDURTHY A. SUNNY DAYAL, MASINA SAIRAM, DINKAR JAGANNATH GAIKWAD, SUMIT RAY AND SAGAR MAITRA* [Influence of drip fertigation on growth, yield and quality attributes of broccoli under polyhouse and open field conditions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 641-648 (2025). Center for Smart Agriculture Centurion University of Technology and Management Paralakhemundi-761 211 (Odisha), India *(email: sagar.maitra@cutm.ac.in)

ABSTRACT

In the present context of climate change, high-value crop cultivation under controlled environmental conditions and fertigation are effective methods to improve productivity and quality. Among exotic vegetables, broccoli has gained importance in India due to its excellent nutritional value and health benefits. The performance of broccoli under different agronomic management has been tested mainly under open-field conditions. However, a comparative study on crop response to nutrients and fertigation under polyhouse and open field conditions is meagre. The current study, conducted during the winter of 2022-23 and 2023-24, aimed to examine the impacts of drip fertigation at varying nutrient concentrations on the growth, yield, and quality of broccoli under both conditions. Eight treatments were tested in polyhouse and open-field environments, which included 100, 80, and 60% of the recommended dose of fertilisers with water-soluble nutrients through fertigation and soil application. The results demonstrated that broccoli cultivated under polyhouse utilising 100% drip fertigation (T1) produced the highest leaf count (16.8 leaves/plant), curd diameter (17.6 cm) and yield (19.7 t/ha) with the best nutritional content (3.11% N, 0.94% P and 3.12% K) and TSS (6.65 °Brix). In contrast, treatments with 80% and 60% nutrients resulted in a steady decline in growth, nutrient content and yield under the open field conditions. The study concluded that cultivation of broccoli in a polyhouse and fertigation with water-soluble nutrients can be combined to enhance productivity and quality, which could offer a practical way to realise a high-yield and sustainable vegetable production.

14. BAHRAN KNFE YAKOB* AND MURAT SABIROVICH GINS [Effect of biostimulant Albit-BR doses on growth, yield and physiological parameters of tomato (Solanum lycopersicon) cultivars under open field conditions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 649-658 (2025). Department of Agro-Biotechnology Agrarian and Technological Institute, RUDN University, Moscow, Russia *(e-mail: bahranknfe@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), a member of the Solanaceae family, is among the most consumed vegetables worldwide. However, its production is threatened by the existing climate changes and the non-judicious use of agro-chemicals. The study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effect of a novel biostimulant Albit-BR on growth, fruit yield, and physiological quality traits of tomato. The study was conducted during summer season (June-September) of both 2023 and 2025 in the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution, Federal Scientific Vegetable Center, VNIISSOK, Moscow Region, Russia. The field was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) comprising two factors (cultivars and Albit-BR biostimulant) and each treatment was replicated three times. The first factor comprised four tomato cultivars (Malets, Revansh, Talisman and Fonaric), whereas the second factor comprised seven different doses of biostimulant Albit-BR (0.1, 0.5, 1, 2.5, 5, 10 and 50 L/ha) chosen to make comparison with non-treated plants (control). Pooled results of the two years revealed that there existed significant differences in the values of all the growth, yield and physiological quality parameters. Out of the four cultivars, Talisman cultivar produced the highest total yield value (76.4 t/ha). In addition to this, the impact of the biostimulant Albit-BR was found to have a profound effect on the improvement of plant growth, yield and quality characteristics of tomato fruits. Application of the biostimulant at a dose of 2.5 L/ha resulted in the production of the highest yield of tomato fruits (79.8 t/ha). Thus, on the basis of the combined results of the two years experiment, farmers are recommended to apply the biostimulant at a dose of 2.5 L/ha and Talisman cultivar should be selected so as to maximize the production of tomato fruits under loamy soil conditions.

15. Tuba Taziun, Ritu Kumari, Sufiya Jan And Bilques Farooq* [Interplay of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide in enhancing antioxidant defense under chromium (VI) toxicity in tomato]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 659-667 (2025). Department of Botany Lovely Professional University, Phagwara-144 411 (Punjab), India *(e-mail: bilquesfarooq123@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Chromium [Cr (IV)] toxicity poses a serious threat to plant health by inducing oxidative stress and disrupting physiological processes. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) is a vital annual vegetable crop grown globally in 5 million hectares of land. Additionally, tomatoes are highly susceptible to a range of abiotic stressors, particularly metal stress, which highlights the need to investigate how metal stress impacts their morphological and biochemical characteristics. In view of this, the current study was carried from April 2023 to June 2024 at Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India, to evaluate the impact of Cr(VI) stress and the mitigating roles of hydrogen peroxide (H‚ O‚ ) and nitric oxide (NO) on tomato seedlings grown hydroponically. The findings indicated that exposure to 20 µM Cr(VI) for seven days resulted in a significant decrease in total chlorophyll (27.17%) and carotenoid (19.62%) contents as compared to the control ones. Additionally, the activities of key antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were affected, suggesting impairment of the photosynthetic system and redox balance. However, exogenous supplementation of H2O2 (1 µM) and NO (25 µM) considerably diminished these negative effects by restoring pigment levels and augmenting antioxidant enzyme activities. The protective role of H2O2 was negated by the supplementation of NO scavenger cPTIO (2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide)) and the NOS (Nitric Oxide Synthase) inhibitor L-NAME (N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, suggesting that H2O2- mediated stress tolerance operates via NO-dependent signaling pathways. Conversely the application of ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) inhibitors such as DPI (Diphenyleneiodonium) and NAC (N-acetyl-L-cysteine) had minimal impact on NO’s protective function. Further, supporting a synergistic interaction between H2O2 and NO in conferring chromium stress tolerance in tomato seedlings.

16. TSEKE PONTSHO EDMUND* [Yield, water use efficiency and nutritional water productivity in response to planting density for Cucumis myriocarpus leafy vegetables under drip irrigation]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 668-674 (2025). Department of Plant Production, Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering University of Limpopo, Private Bag X1106, Sovenga 0727, South Africa *(e-mail: Pontsho.tseke@ul.ac.za)

ABSTRACT

The null hypothesis suggested that the planting density/hole of drip irrigation would not have effects on the yield, water use efficiency (WUE), and nutritional water productivity (NWP) of wild cucumber (Cucumis myriocarpus Naude) under field conditions. The experiment was initiated during autumn (February-April) 2021 and validated in 2022. Nine treatments, namely, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 plants per hole drip irrigation (HDI), were arranged in a randomized complete block design, with 16 replications. Collected data included yield, evapotranspiration (Eta), WUE, and NWP of selected mineral elements (Ca, K, Mg, P, Fe, Na, and Zn). Planting density/HDI had no significant (P d” 0.05) effects on the Evapotranspiration (Eta) of C. myriocarpus leafy vegetable. However, planting density/HDI had highly significant (P d” 0.01) effects on the yield, WUE, and NWP of selected mineral elements in leafy tissues of the selected vegetable plant. The highest yield was obtained at planting density/HDI of 7, it decreased with increasing planting density/HDI above that. Similarly, the highest WUE was obtained at planting density/HDI of 7, but also reduced with increasing planting density/HDI above that. Relative to one plant/HDI, NWP of (Ca, K, Mg, P) reached the highest at 9 planting density/HDI, whereas NWP of (Fe, Na, and Zn) reached the highest at 7 planting density/HDI, but then decreased when planting density/HDI increased. Therefore, planting densities/HDI of 7 and 9 highly improved yield, WUE, and NWP of tested mineral elements, which would result in high-quality crops suitable for human consumption.

17. MASINA SAIRAM, SUMIT RAY, DURGA PRASAD PADHI*, PENDURTHY A. SUNNY DAYAL, SANTOSH D. T. AND SAGAR MAITRA [Growth, productivity and quality of gerbera cultivars under forced- and open ventilated polyhouse conditions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 675-681 (2025). Center for Smart Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi-761 211 (Odisha), India *(email: durgaprasad@cutm.ac.in)

ABSTRACT

Gerbera is valued for its attractive colour, long vase life, and high demand in the domestic and export markets. Microclimatic conditions influence growth and productivity, making protected cultivation essential for year-round production of quality flowers in tropical conditions. Also, the performance of gerbera depends on cultivars as they exhibit distinct responses to microclimate, influencing growth, quality and yield potential. However, sufficient research was not conducted on the above in the South Odisha condition. Hence, the present investigation was carried out at the Protected Cultivation Unit, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, during 2022-2024 to evaluate the performance of gerbera cultivars under two different polyhouse environments, namely, forced-ventilated and open-ventilated structures. The experiment was laid out in a Factorial Randomised Block Design with twenty treatment combinations, consisting of ten cultivars across two polyhouses. Results revealed that polyhouse conditions and gerbera cultivars influenced gerbera’s growth, yield, and flower quality. The forced-ventilated polyhouse produced a higher flower yield, while maintaining better growth and quality than an open-ventilated structure. Among cultivars, Dana-Ellen consistently exhibited the highest plant height, number of leaves, and flower yield, remaining statistically on par with Dune and Silvester for several parameters. The study concluded that the forced-ventilated polyhouse with the cultivar Dana-Ellen proved to be the most suitable for achieving higher productivity and superior flower quality of gerbera under South Odisha conditions.

18. Safaa Abd Al-Hassan Al-Zubaidy and Rafid S. Al Ubori* [Effect of seeding rate and growth period on the quantity and nutritional quality of fodder barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) under hydroponic cultivation]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 682-689 (2025). Department of Field Crops, College of Agriculture Al-Qasim Green University, Babylon 51013, Iraq *(e-mail: janatsafaa@agre.uoqasim.edu.iq; rafidish@agre.uoqasim.edu.iq)

ABSTRACT

Barley is an important winter cereal crop in Iraq, widely used as green fodder. Rising feed costs highlight the need for low-cost, year-round alternatives like hydroponic soilless farming. However, the optimal seeding rate and growth duration for maximizing yield and quality of hydroponic barley fodder remain uncertain. Therefore, an experiment was conducted during 2023 under greenhouse chamber, College of Agriculture, Al- Qasim Green University, Iraq, to evaluate the effect of planting rates and different growth periods on the productivity and quality of fodder barley. The experiment included two factors using a completely randomized design (CRD) whit three replications. The initial variable was the seeding rates of 2500, 3000 and 3500 g/m2. The second influence was the growth durations of 9, 12 and 15 days. Planting was done in dishes considered experimental units for these factors, and thus the number of experimental units reached 27 experimental units. The results showed that a seed rate of 3000 g/m² achieved the greater of green fodder yield, dry matter, and protein percentage, while a seed rate of 2500 g/m² yielded the lowest green fodder yield, dry matter, and protein percentage. Maximum plant height and dry matter percentage were achieved at 3500 g/m². The 15-day growth period achieved the highest plant height, protein content, and dry matter content. The 12-day growth period from germination yielded the highest green forage yield. The growth period affected growth, productivity, and quality.

19. P. W. MASHELA* AND K. M. POFU [Impact of Meloidogyne javanica infection on nutrient element accumulation in sweet potato cultivar ‘Blesbok’]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 690-697 (2025). University of Limpopo, Green Biotechnologies Research Centre of Excellence Department of Plant Production, Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Private BagX1106, Sovenga 0727 South Africa *(e-mail: phatu.mashela@ul.ac.za)

ABSTRACT

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) is a valuable staple crop rich in essential nutrients such as iron (Fe), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and calcium (Ca). However, root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.), particularly Meloidogyne javanica (Treub) Chitwood, pose a significant threat to its productivity by affecting nutrient uptake. Despite the global prevalence of M. javanica, there is inconsistent information on its impact on the nutrient composition of sweet potato leaves. This study aimed to assess the response of selected nutrient elements (Ca, K, Mg, Fe, and Zn) in the leaf tissues of sweet potato cultivar 2 Blesbok’ infected by M. javanica at the University of Limpopo, South Africa, using a randomized complete block design with six replications. Seven M. javanica inoculation levels (0, 5, 25, 125, 625, 3125, and 15,625 eggs + second-stage juveniles (J2) were applied to the sweet potato plants. Nutrient element concentrations in the leaves were analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry after a microwave digestion process. Independent variables (x-axis) were log-transformed for normality and subjected to analysis of variance, with multiple regression analysis performed. Negative quadratic relationships were observed for Ca, K, Mg and Fe, with inhibited concentrations at low nematode densities and stimulated ones at higher levels. However, Zn responded with a positive quadratic trend, indicating gradual decline under lower nematode stress. Optimal levels of Ca, K, Mg and Fe occurred at lower nematode population densities, whereas Zn accumulation peaked at higher infestation levels. In conclusion, the study confirmed that M. javanica infection disrupts nutrient accumulation in sweet potato, leading to nematode density-specific responses. Managing nematode population densities to lower levels may help to maintain optimal nutrient concentrations. The findings provide insights into the nutritional impact of nematode infections and can inform integrated nematode management strategies for sustainable sweet potato production.

20. GYRNETS ELENA YURIEVNA, PONOMAREV ARTEM VASILIEVICH*, KREMNEVA OKSANA YURIEVNA, DUBYAGA VALENTINA MICHAYLOVNA AND ASATUROVA ANZHELA MICHAYLOVNA [Effect of different tillage methods on the structure and dynamics of fungal microbiota of Chernozems in Krasnodar Krai, Russia]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 698-706 (2025). Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution «Federal Research Center of Biological Plant Protection»
(FSBSI FRCBPP), Krasnodar, Russia *(e-mail: ponomarev@fncbzr.ru)

ABSTRACT

Communities of soil fungi play a crucial role in maintaining crop health, and tillage methods can disrupt the balance between pathogenic and beneficial fungi. On the highly fertile chernozem soils of the Krasnodar Territory (southern Russia), traditionally cultivated by deep ploughing, the effect of reduced tillage on the soil mycobiota remains unclear. This study aims to meet the need for local data on how the lack of tillage and minimal tillage affect soil fungi compared to conventional ploughing. Field experiments were conducted during two winter wheat growing seasons (2023-2024 and 2024-2025) at the Federal Research Center for Biological Plant Protection in the Krasnodar Territory. Four tillage methods were evaluated: dump ploughing, combined tillage, minimal tillage and no tillage. Soil samples were collected at key stages (before sowing, spring vegetative growth, and after harvesting) and analysed for the number of fungal colonies and community composition (identification of saprotrophic and pathogenic fungi at the genus level). Saprotrophic fungi Penicillium and Aspergillus predominated in all soils (up to 80% of the total number of colonies), which indicates a high decomposition activity. However, the number of pathogenic fungi of the genus Fusarium increased markedly with zero and minimal tillage, reaching up to 10-15% of the fungal community by spring, compared with lower levels (up to 5%) with dump and combined tillage. Trichoderma antagonist fungi showed the opposite trend: their populations were higher in ploughed and combined areas than in untreated ones. These results suggest that traditional and combined tillage can more effectively suppress soil pathogens in the short term, while zero or minimal tillage may require additional measures, including the use of biocontrol tools to maintain soil health.

21. GYRNETS ELENA YURIEVNA*, ASATUROVA ANZHELA MICHAYLOVNA AND TSYGICHKO ALEKSANDRA ALEKSANDROVNA [Experimental bacterial strain formulations for the control of apple scab (Venturia inaequalis)]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 707-714 (2025). Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution «Federal Research Center of Biological Plant Protection» (FSBSI FRCBPP), Krasnodar, Russia *(e-mail: alena_fox95@mail.ru)

ABSTRACT

Apple scab (Venturia inaequalis) is a globally destructive disease of apple trees. Sustainable alternatives to synthetic fungicides are urgently needed. This study assessed the efficacy of five experimental bacterial-based formulations for controlling apple scab in two-year small-scale field trials. The experimental formulations containing Bacillus cereus BZR 736, Brevundimonas naejangsanensis BZR 1159, Achromobacter marplatensis BZR 926, Bacillus velezensis BZR 277, B. velezensis BZR 936 were applied to apple trees over the 2023-24 growing seasons. Treatments were sprayed five times per season and compared with water control and a commercial biofungicide (Fitosporin-M, SC 2.5 L/ha, containing Bacillus subtilis 26D). A comparative analysis of the 2023-24 data confirmed that the experimental formulations maintained stable efficacy even under elevated disease pressure. The formulations based on B. velezensis BZR 277 and B. velezensis BZR 936 consistently provided robust protection, with leaf efficacy exceeding 60.0% and fruit protection surpassing 59.0%. The formulation containing A. marplatensis BZR 926, which showed a positive trend in fruit protection, ultimately reaching an efficacy level comparable to the reference product. Conversely, the protective effect of the B. cereus BZR 736 formulation was unstable across seasons. Furthermore, B. naejangsanensis BZR 1159 demonstrated negligible activity against apple scab. These results highlight that B. velezensis BZR 277 and BZR 936 as the most promising candidates for the development of new, reliable biofungicides, which could significantly reduce dependence on chemical pesticides within integrated apple disease management programs.

22. T. T. NGUYEN, T. D. H. TRUONG, T. S. G. NGUYEN, T. A. T. TRAN, T. D. TRAN AND T. T. H. HOANG* [Optimisation of organic fertiliser application for enhancing growth and yield of pennywort (Centella asiatica L.) in Central Vietnam]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 715-720 (2025). 4University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University, Hue City, Vietnam *(e-mail: htthoa@hueuni.edu.vn)

ABSTRACT

Excessive use of inorganic fertilisers causes environmental and health problems, highlighting the need for sustainable alternatives. Organic fertilisers enhance soil health and crop productivity in an eco-friendly manner. However, limited research on suitable organic fertiliser types and rates for pennywort in Central Vietnam constrains yield and quality optimisation. Field experiments were conducted to determine the suitable type and rate of organic fertiliser in pennywort yield at Hue city, Central Vietnam in two cropping years, 2024 and 2025. Twelve treatment combinations of three types (microorganism organic fertiliser, rice husk and peanut shell organic fertiliser, and FYM) and four rates of organic fertiliser (0, 1, 2, 3 t/ha and 0, 5, 10, 15 t/ha) were studied on the local pennywort variety in a split plot design with three replications. The results revealed that types and rates of organic fertilisers had significant impacts on leaf area, fresh and dry biomass as well as yield of pennywort (p<0.05). The highest economic yield (6.94-7.44 t/ha) and biomass yield (8.01-8.53 t/ha) were obtained at a rate of 15 t/ha at FYM application, followed by organic fertiliser from rice husk and peanut shell application. Hence, FYM or organic fertiliser from rice husk and peanut shell at an optimum rate of 15 t/ha in terms of growth and yield of pennywort is the best option for pennywort production in Hue city, Central Vietnam.

23. Hung Cuong Dang*, Dang Hoi Nguyen And Ngoc Huyen Dang [Assessing the distribution of Litsea cubeba in Gia Lai Province, Vietnam through the MaxEnt Model]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 721-727 (2025). 1Institute of Tropical Ecology Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center 63 Nguyen Van Huyen Str., Nghia Do, Hanoi, Vietnam *(e-mail: danghungcuong@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Litsea cubeba, a valuable tree cultivated for essential oil, medicinal purposes, and spices, is gaining attention for development in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. Accurate spatial planning for its cultivation requires a precise assessment of suitable land areas. This study aimed to model the potential distribution of L. cubeba in Gia Lai Province using the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) algorithm, renowned for its effectiveness with limited species occurrence data. The model was trained with 195 species presence locations and 19 bioclimatic variables from WorldClim 2.1. Model performance was evaluated through 15 cross-validation replicates, assessed by the Area Under the Curve (AUC), True Skill Statistic (TSS), and ROC curves. The results demonstrated high model accuracy, with mean training and validation AUC values of 0.926 and 0.896, respectively. The most influential variable was precipitation of the driest quarter (Bio17), contributing 66.6% and exhibiting the highest gain in Jackknife tests. Other significant variables included diurnal temperature range (Bio02) and precipitation of the driest month (Bio14). The resulting suitability map was classified into four levels. The findings indicate that only approximately 10.25% (about 1,589 km²) of the province’s area is suitable for Litsea cubeba, with highly suitable zones (<“1-2%) concentrated on the plateau peaks. This research provides a critical scientific foundation for land-use planning and the sustainable expansion of Litsea cubeba cultivation in the region.

24. Tuqa R. N. Al-Sharai, Shatha Ayed Yousif and Ziyad A. Abed* [Cellular responses of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) to drought stress and chemical mutagenesis under in vitro conditions]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 728-735 (2025). Department of Field Crops, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq *(e-mail: ziyad.ismael@coagri.uobaghdad.edu.iq)

ABSTRACT

Fenugreek possesses significant nutritional and medicinal value, yet its productivity is constrained by drought stress. Understanding cellular responses under in vitro conditions is essential to elucidate mechanisms of stress tolerance and improve sustainable cultivation. The experiment was conducted during 2022-2023 growing season to study the effect of drought stress levels 0 and 1% polyethylene glycol (PEG), and chemical mutation sodium azide (SA) on fenugreek in vitro. Fenugreek seeds were mutated using SA (0, 0.5 and 1 mM). A factorial experiment was conducted with three replicates, where the first factor was the concentrations of SA, while the second factor was the levels of PEG After one month, assessments were conducted for proline and carbohydrate accumulation, diosgenin content, as well as the activities of peroxidase and catalase enzymes. There was a significant effect of SA as average on all studied traits except for proline accumulation, carbohydrate, and recording 8.11, 6.38, and 4.93 mg glucose/g dry weight at 0-, 0.5-, and 1-mM SA, respectively. while diosgenin concentration and the activity of catalase and peroxidase increased in the presence of the SA. As for the effect of PEG as an average, the result revealed no significant effect on proline and carbohydrate accumulation and the activity of catalase and peroxidase, while diosgenin increased in the presence of PEG. Interaction between SA and PEG revealed a significant effect on carbohydrate and diosgenin accumulation and the activity of catalase and peroxidase, as carbohydrates decreased with increasing PEG concentrations in 0- and 0.5- mM SA.

25. INTAN RATNA DEWI ANJARSARI*, MUHAMMAD RAIHAN ABDILLAH FARROS AND SANTI ROSNIAWATY [Improvement of growth and yield of tea plants through the combine application of microbial-based biofertilizers and inorganic fertilisers]. Research on Crops 26 (4): 736-742 (2025). 1Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Padjadjaran Jl. Raya Bandung-Sumedang Km. 21, Jatinangor, Sumedang 45363, West Java, Indonesia *(e-mail: intan.ratna@unpad.ac.id)

ABSTRACT

Tea shoot yields in Indonesia have fluctuated over the past five years. The high population of seed-origin tea plants with low productivity is a contributing factor. Replacing them with clonal plants with higher productivity is recommended to increase the productivity of seed tea plants. The obstacle faced is that replacing these plants requires high costs. Therefore, other efforts are made by fertilising to maintain the availability of nutrients and soil conditions to support the growth of tea plants. This experiment aims to determine the effect of applying a combination of liquid biofertilizers and inorganic fertilisers on the quality and quantity of tea plant yields. The experiment was conducted from June to December 2024 using a Randomised Block Design with 10 treatments and 3 replications. The treatments consisted of a combination of microbial-based biofertilizers at doses of 20 L/ha, 30 L/ha, and 40 L/ha, and inorganic fertilisers at doses of 50%, 75% and 100% of the recommended dose. The results showed that the combination of microbial-based biofertilizer and inorganic fertiliser significantly affected shoot wet weight, percentage of pecco weight, ratio of pecco to dormant shoots, and shoot yield. The treatment of 40 L/ha + 100% of the recommended dose of inorganicfertiliser gave the best results regarding the ratio of pecco to dormant shoots and percentage of pecco weight. The treatment of 40 L/ha + 75% recommended dosage of inorganic fertilizer gave the best results for shoot wet weight and shoot yield.

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