Fresh Shoot Research Articles (Page 1)

Aim of study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of organic substrates formulated with different proportions of acerola (Malpighia glabra) bagasse and carnauba palm (Copernica prunifera) bagana on the initial development of tomato and lettuce seedlings, with a focus on enhancing the sustainability of horticultural practices. Area of study: This research was conducted in a controlled greenhouse environment at the Center for Agricultural Sciences, Federal University of Piauí, in Teresina, Piauí, Brazil. Material and methods: The experiment involved 12 different substrates, each formulated from an organic compost mixed with acerola bagasse and carnauba palm bagana. Basaplant®, a commercially available substrate, was used as the control. This study evaluated the following variables: seed emergence (SE), emergence speed index (ESI), total dry mass (TDM), shoot dry mass (SDM), root volume (RV), dry root mass (DRM), seedling height (SH), leaf area (LA), stem diameter (SD), fresh root mass (FRM), fresh shoot mass (FSM), and Dickson quality index (DQI). The statistical analysis included principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis to determine the effectiveness of the substrates. Main results: For tomato, substrates with 50% carnauba bagana displayed higher volumetric density, which positively correlated with RV and DRM. This benefited seedling stability and water retention. Fine particles (<0.25 mm) enhanced TDM, while particles between 0.5–0.25 mm negatively affected SE. In lettuce, substrates with 50% acerola bagasse promoted higher aeration and drainage, which was beneficial for this crop. Larger particles (2.0–1.0 mm) correlated positively with LA, while finer particles reduced root dry mass. PCA and clustering grouped substrates by growth performance, with the G3 cluster favoring tomato and the G5 cluster favoring lettuce. Research highlights: This study demonstrates that organic substrates with 50% carnauba bagana improve root growth and water retention in tomato seedlings, while substrates with 50% acerola bagasse enhance aeration and drainage, thereby bene- fiting lettuce growth. Fine particles positively influence biomass accumulation in tomato but limit root development in lettuce. Conversely, larger particles support greater leaf area in lettuce while reducing root depth. PCA revealed distinct substrate pref- erences for tomato and lettuce, underscoring the importance of tailoring substrate composition to crop-specific needs.

Micronutrient deficiencies in soil can significantly hinder plant growth and reduce crop production; therefore, foliar application of these micronutrients to plants becomes effective. Although metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are frequently used in gas storage, adsorption, and catalysis, their application in agriculture has been rather uncommon. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how the growth parameters of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) plants were affected by nickel (Ni2+), chromium (Cr3+), cobalt (Co2+), and copper (Cu2+) MOFs. Using spectroscopic analysis, frameworks for Ni-BTC, Cr-BTC, Co-BTC, and Cu-BTC were described. These frameworks’ effects on the faba plants’ physiological stress indices, leaf chlorophyll and phenolic contents, fresh and dry weight of the roots and shoots, and shoot and root length were measured. According to our findings, Cu-BTC improved plant growth and development, resulting in a 37.79% increase in fresh shoot weight and a 40.42% increase in dry weight. Additionally, there was a 62.96% rise in the fresh weight of roots and a 75.0% increase in the dry weight of roots. The diameter of the stem was increased by 31.5% and the leaf surface area increased by 46.22%. There was an improvement in the amount of pigments, with carotenoids growing 1.91 times, chlorophyll a an increasing 1.59 times, and chlorophyll b increasing 2.07 times. On the other hand, Cr-BTC showed a negative impact on the growth of the plant; malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2 levels were raised by 4.54% and 14.21%, respectively, compared to the control. Although micronutrients are essential for plant growth and development, plants need them in small quantities. MOFs will deliver these micronutrients to plants in a controlled and efficient manner. MOFs can enhance nutrient uptake and reduce environmental impact by minimizing nutrient leaching and pollution.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12870-025-07478-7.

Purpose. The purpose of our study is a new technology for obtaining granulated black tea with antioxidant properties and solubility of granules in boiled water. The objects of the study are: fresh tea shoots, frozen- defrosted tea flushes (granules obtained from them). Materials and methods. Physicochemical methods of analysis were used to determine extractive substances, tannin, catechins, theoflavin and theorubigins, pectin substances and sugars. Results. The technological scheme for obtaining granulated black tea is as follows: freezing of tea leaves, defrosting, granulation, drying of the obtained granules. To achieve the result, we used different matrix sizes to obtain granules. After conducting the initial experiments, we established the optimal granule sizes: matrix thickness (3.5 and 10 mm) and pore diameter (3.5 and 10 mm). Physicochemical indicators in the obtained samples were determined by four-fold extraction of granules in boiling water. Physicochemical methods of analysis were used to determine extractive substances, tannin, catechins, theaflavin and thearubigins. The resulting granulated black tea is characterized by rapid dissolution in boiling water and significantly surpasses regular tea in this indicator. Conclusions. This product is rich in catechins, which have antioxidant properties and P-vitamin activity. It is noteworthy that this method is quite simple. It can be used by farmers engaged in small tea business. Our technology meets market needs, and we are considering the possibility of selling in those countries where black tea products are traditionally popular.

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is one of the most important vegetables in Pakistan and worldwide and being affected with root knot nematode in high plastic tunnels. The study was conducted to survey high plastic tunnels at Quetta, Balochistan Pakistan and samples have been disease samples have been collected. The maximum disease incidence in the high plastic tunnels was recorded 30% at Baleli area and minimum 10% at Sariab and Nausar areas. Management experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of various nematicides on the growth, and physiological traits of cucumber plants. Treatment includes chemicals viz., Carbofuran, Fostiazate, Fluopyrum, Oxamyl, and Cadusafos, compared against an untreated control group of cucumber pants. Carbofuran consistently produced the highest values across all parameters, including number of fruits per plant (7.10), fruit weight (28.80 g), fruit length (13.2cm), seed number per fruit (40.0), number of leaves (19.2), plant height (47.8 cm), fresh shoot weight (78.8 g), fresh root weight (23.80 g), dry shoot weight (46.5 g), and dry root weight (14.0 g). Fostiazate and Fluopyrum followed in performance, showing significantly better results than Oxamyl, Cadusafos, and the control for most parameters. Oxamyl and Cadusafos displayed moderate improvements over the control on various parameters. The untreated control consistently recorded the lowest values in growth and yield characteristics. Notably, Carbofuran also induced the lowest number of root galls (6.0), significantly below other treatments, with Cudusaps showing the highest gall count (28.0). These results demonstrate that chemical treatments of Carbofuran followed by Fostiazate substantially enhance cucumber growth and are recommended for management of root knot in green house condition

Haitian farmers depend on tillage and hand weeding for managing weeds in vegetable crops due to limited financial resources for purchasing herbicides and loss of laborers to urban migration. The use of cover crops was proposed as a means of suppressing weeds and plant-parasitic nematodes during the off-season before planting vegetable crops. The objectives of the study were to compare the effects of leguminous cover crops on weed and root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) suppression before and during a subsequent eggplant (Solanum melongena) cash crop and evaluate the effects of the cover crops and supplemental fertilizer on eggplant growth and yield. In Summer 2018, three legume cover crops, velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata cv. Iron Clay), and sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea cv. Tropic Sun), and a no cover crop control were evaluated at Camp-Perrin and Ducis, Haiti. Cover crops were assigned to the main plots of a split-plot experimental design and ‘Florida Market’ eggplant with or without supplemental mineral fertilizer comprised the subplot treatments. Data were collected on cover crop shoot biomass accumulation, weed and plant-parasitic nematode suppression, and eggplant growth and yield. Cover crop fresh shoot biomass with sunn hemp and cowpea was higher than velvet bean at Camp-Perrin and sunn hemp biomass was higher than cowpea and velvet bean at Ducis. However, both sunn hemp and cowpea resulted in lower weed biomass than the weedy control during the cover crop phase. During the eggplant crop, only sunn hemp reduced weed biomass to less than the control. Sunn hemp produced the tallest eggplant plants with the highest shoot biomass and fruit yields, and fruit size was larger with sunn hemp than with the weedy control. Plant-parasitic nematode populations were low at both sites and not significantly different from the control. The results indicate that sunn hemp can be used as a cultural weed management method to suppress weeds and enhance eggplant yield in Haiti.

The present study utilized methylotrophic actinobacteria and bacteria isolated from rice rhizosphere soil, differentiated based on their methanol carbon use efficiency, as a sustainable strategy to reduce methane gas emissions and improve the growth and yield of Basmati rice (PB1121). Inoculating Basmati rice seeds with both inefficient methanol carbon utilizers (Streptomyces capillispiralis strain KA10, Streptomyces albogriseolus strain D4, Sphingobium sp strain MB6) and efficient utilizers (Streptomyces tritici strain KA11, Streptomyces macrosporeus strain U3 and Rhizobium pusense strain MB4) significantly enhanced the germination percentage, shoot length, root length, and seed vigour index compared to the uninoculated control. Results from pot experiments demonstrated the highest values of leaf chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids (1.94, 1.35, and 3.81 mg g-1 of FW) in treatments inoculated with methylotrophs compared to the uninoculated control (0.52, 0.17, and 2.35 mg g-1 of FW). In addition, leaf phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) contents increased by 45% and 13% over the control, respectively. The methylotroph inoculations also enhanced root architecture and plant yield parameters, including fresh shoot weight, biological yield, number of grains per plant, and harvest index, compared to the control. The significantly highest grain yield was recorded in the Rhizobium pusense strain MB4 inoculated plants with 75% increase as compared to the uninoculated plants. Pearson correlation analysis showed a highly significant positive correlation between grain yield and the number of grains per plant (r = 0.87) as well as shoot length (r = 0.85). The path coefficient analysis at phenotypic level revealed a positive direct effect of grain yield on harvest index, proline content, total chlorophyll, and indirect positive effects on all the studied yield related traits, except for root dry weight, root to shoot ratio and total carotenoids. In conclusion, methylotrophic actinobacteria and bacteria hold great potential as bio-inoculants with a dual role in promoting sustainable rice production and reducing global warming.

Biophilic plant design: (Nano)Fertilising barley in hydroponics for 'lush space gardens'.

Although common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a very important forage legume plant, some varieties have a dormancy problem due to the hardness of the seed coat. So far, studies on breaking this dormancy seen in common vetch seeds have been quite limited. This research was carried out to determine the effects of ultrasonic pre-treatments applied to common vetch seeds under laboratory conditions on germination and initial seedling growth. Ultrasonic pre-treatment (US) was applied to common vetch seeds at a frequency of 47 kH for 0 -control-, 10, 20, 30 and 40 minutes, respectively. The experiment was designed according to a completely randomized plot trial design with 4 replications. In the research, germination percentage (GP-%-), mean germination time (MGT-day-), germination rate index (GRI-%-), shoot and root lengths (SL and RL-cm-), root-shoot ratio (R/S -%-), shoot and root fresh weights (SFW and RFW-mg per plant-), shoot and root dry weights (SDW and RDW-mg per plant-), shoot and root dry matter (SDM and RDM-% -), root/shoot dry matter ratio (R/S DM-%-), shoot and root water contents (SWC and RWC-%-) and seedling vigor index (SVI) parameters were measured. As a result of the research, it was determined that ultrasonic pre-treatments had statistically significant (P≤0.05) effects on germination parameters (GP, MGT and GRI). It has been determined that US10 and US40 treatments increase the GP by 11.11%. However, it was determined that US30 treatment shortened the MGT by 15.81% and increased the GRI and SL by 100.00% and 34.65%, respectively. In addition, it was determined that ultrasonic pre-treatments had statistically significant effects on growth parameters (RL, SL, R/S ratio, SFW, RFW, SDW, RDW, SDM, SDM and SVI). Compared to the control group, an increase of 42.95%, 51.35%, 17.75% and 21.00% in the RL, R/S ratio, SFW and RFW parameter values, respectively, was obtained from the US10 treatment. Additionally, US40 treatment caused an increase in RDW, SDM, RDM values by 51.51%, 33.83% and 33.87%, respectively. The highest increase in SVI was recorded in the US30 treatment with 30.56%. In conclusion, the data of this study showed that ultrasonic technology has a positive effect on breaking dormancy in common vetch seeds and thus on the initial seedling growth.

Crop productivity can be affected by biotic and abiotic stressors, and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) from the genera Bacillus and Burkholderia have the potential to maintain fruit yield and quality, as these bacteria can promote plant growth by solubilizing nutrients, fixing atmospheric nitrogen, producing phytohormones, and exhibiting antagonistic activity against pathogens. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of inoculating plants with Bacillus subtilis and Burkholderia seminalis on their morphological characteristics, fruit technological attributes and yield of common cherry tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) subjected to induced water deficit. The study was arranged on a split-plot randomized block design, with four water replacement levels (40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of crop evapotranspiration, ETc) and three inoculation treatments (Bacillus subtilis ATCC 23858, Burkholderia seminalis TC3.4.2R3 and non-inoculation). Data were subjected to analysis of variance using the F-test and compared using Tukey’s test (p < 0.05) and multivariate statistics from principal component analysis. Inoculation with Burkholderia seminalis increased the plant fresh and dry shoot and root mass, as well as root volume. Inoculation with Bacillus subtilis increased carotenoid and chlorophyll b contents. Both inoculations enhanced leaf water content in plants experiencing severe water deficit (40% of ETc). The use of these strains as PGPB increased the fruit soluble solids content. Higher productivity in inoculated plants was achieved through a greater number of fruits per cluster, despite the individual fruits being lighter. Treatments with higher water replacement levels resulted in greater yield. Inoculations showed biotechnological potential in mitigating water deficit in cherry tomatoes.

Biostimulants based on Bradyrhizobium japonicum are commonly used in soybean production. However, the effect of nitrogen-fixing bacteria in consortia with other plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and their integration with mineral nutrients on soybean seed quality has not been explored. The study aimed to examine the effects of five treatments on seed germination and initial seedling growth of two soybean cultivars (‘NS Apolo’, ‘NS Rubin’): control (untreated seeds); Br. japonicum (BJ), BJ and nutrient complex (NC), BJ, Azotobacter chroococcum (AC), Bacillus subtilis (BS), and NC; BJ, AC, Bacillus megaterium (BM), and NC. Seed treatments significantly enhanced germination energy, seedling vigor index, root length, fresh shoot weight, fresh root weight, dry shoot weight, and dry root weight of both cultivars, as well as final germination, shoot length, and shoot elongation rate of ‘NS Rubin’, as compared to the control. The highest effect on the investigated parameters was achieved by integrated use of PGPR and nutrients (BJ + BM + AC + NC), indicating that integration of PGPR with a targeted NC represents an innovative approach with practical implications for improving early soybean establishment and field performance.

This study evaluated the effects of foliar spraying and seed priming with green-synthesized nanofertilizers (NFs) containing silver (Ag), zinc oxide (ZnO), and an Ag/ZnO composite on the growth and quality of two sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) varieties, Kawemira and Dema Poly. The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions at El-Sabahia Research Station, Alexandria, Egypt (31°12′N, 29°58′E) using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with five replicates in 50 cm earthenware pots. Treatments included foliar sprays or seed priming at 0 (control), 50, and 100 ppm, applied at different growth stages. Foliar application of AgNFs at 100 ppm, 15 days after sowing, achieved the highest fresh shoot weights (240 g in Kawemira, 231 g in Dema Poly) and root weights (995.6 g in Kawemira, 984 g in Dema Poly). Seed priming with Ag/ZnONFs composite at 50 ppm for 24 h resulted in high shoot weights (240 g and 241 g) and root weights (902 g and 865 g) for Kawemira and Dema Poly, respectively. Foliar spraying with Ag/ZnONFs composite at 50 ppm increased total soluble solids (TSS) to 28.8% (Kawemira) and 30.8% (Dema Poly), and sucrose content to 21.25% and 22.25%, respectively. The formation and elemental composition of AgNFs, ZnONFs, and Ag/ZnONFs composites were confirmed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). These findings demonstrate that targeted use of green-synthesized nanofertilizers can significantly improve sugar beet growth, sugar content, and juice quality. The results highlight the potential of nanofertilizer application particularly seed priming as a sustainable and cost-effective approach for enhancing crop productivity.

In the present study, new insights into methylene blue (MB) toxicity were obtained using in vitro model systems and a molecular docking approach. A sustainable biosorbent from A. negundo (AN) biomass was prepared and its detoxification potential was investigated. MB at concentrations of up to 10 ppm caused significant phytotoxic effects on the physiological parameters of Brassica oleracea var. acephala and anatomical parameters of A. cepa L. Germination rate of B. oleracea var. acephala seeds decreased to 76% with increasing MB concentrations. Moreover, significant decreases were observed in fresh weight (760.17 ± 0.76 mg), dry weight (43.09 ± 0.1 mg), root (7.46 ± 0.04 cm), and shoot lengths (13.92 ± 0.09 cm). Significant alterations were observed in the cytogenetic parameters and oxidant-antioxidant dynamics, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), malondialdehyde (MDA), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Molecular interactions contributing to the observed phytotoxicity were revealed by molecular docking analysis of MB with the target receptors associated with in vitro parameters (alpha-amylase (AMY1), beta-amylase (BMY1), serine/threonine-protein kinase (CTR1), B-DNA dodecamer, catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase). AN biosorbent treatment significantly detoxified MB solutions, and improvements in the values of the tested physiological, anatomical, biochemical, and cytogenetic parameters were observed. The parameters affecting biosorption were pHpzc, pH, contact time, biosorbent dose, initial MB dye concentration, stirring speed, and temperature. The R 2 values of the pseudo-second-order kinetic (R 2=0.999) and Freundlich isotherm (R 2 = 0.992) models were the best fitted kinetic and isotherm studies for the biosorption process. Because the ΔH˚ (−36.236 kJ/mol) and ΔG˚ values (−6.63, −5.65, −4.67 and −3.7 kJ/mol) calculated in thermodynamic studies were found to be negative, the biosorption process was determined to be exothermic and spontaneous. Thus, AN biosorbent was determined to be a low-cost, sustainable, and eco-friendly material for the removal and detoxification of synthetic dyes from aqueous solutions.

BackgroundLow phosphate (Pi) availability causes severe decline in crop productivity worldwide. Root system architecture (RSAr) plays a crucial role in Pi uptake from soil and thereby improving phosphorus use efficiency (PUE) of plants. Studying the genetic variability of RSAr traits across various Pi levels offers insights for enhancing crop resilience to Pi deficiency. In the present study, we estimated the response of 280 mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern and Coss.) genotypes for several root architectural traits (root length-RL, root surface area-RSA, root volume-RV, root average diameter-RAD, root fresh weight-RFW, shoot fresh weight-SFW and root shoot ratio-R/S) at the seedling stage in a hydroponic system at three Pi doses (low-LP, normal-NP and high-HP). Besides, LD-based genome wide association study was also conducted to identify genetic determinants governing RSAr traits at three Pi levels.ResultsSignificant genetic variation was observed for the estimated root traits at all Pi levels. A marked increase in mean RL, RSA, RV, RAD, RFW and R/S and decrease in SFW were observed upon Pi starvation. Among 280 genotypes, six genotypes viz., KDM-49-1, DRMRIJ-17-39, RNN-505, NPJ-161, DRMRIJ-17-46, RH-749 were found promising which showed high efficiency at LP and improved responsive behaviour under HP. Genome wide association study allowed the identification of 30 genomic regions involving 140 unique SNPs significantly associated with five traits (RL, RSA, RV, RAD and RFW) on all excluding chromosome A07 of B. juncea. Identification of all Pi dose specific loci except one indicated high interactions between associated loci and Pi applications. Functional annotation of peak SNPs helped to predict 30 putative candidate genes for RSAr at varying Pi applications. Of these, 21 genes were found to be differently expressed in response to LP in high Pi efficient genotype as revealed from RNA seq analysis. Notable among these were genes LPR2 (triggering Pi starvation signaling pathway), PAH2 (Apase encoding gene) and hormone responsive genes (G6PD5, PLGG, LAX3, TIR1, LOG1 and LOG7).ConclusionsThese findings shed light on the genetic mechanisms underlying root architectural traits in response to varying Pi levels, with potential implications for crop improvement strategies aimed at enhancing phosphorus use efficiency in Brassica juncea.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-025-11840-2.

Pythium schmitthenneri, a soilborne pathogen responsible for root rot in olive trees, poses a significant threat to olive production. Managing this pathogen remains challenging due to its aggressive root colonization and the limited efficacy of conventional control methods. Given the concerns associated with chemical treatments, this study evaluated the resistance of eight olive varieties to P. schmitthenneri-induced root rot under controlled greenhouse conditions by assessing structural and biochemical defense mechanisms. Greenhouse trials revealed that Arbequina, Koroneiki, and Haouziya exhibited strong resistance, with 0% disease severity, while Picholine Marocaine and Picholine Languedoc were highly susceptible, reaching 100% disease severity. Growth parameters varied significantly, with susceptible varieties showing severe reductions in root length (RL), root fresh weight (RFW), and root dry weight (RDW), whereas resistant varieties maintained these parameters unchanged. While shoot length (SL) remained unaffected across all varieties, shoot fresh weight (SFW) and shoot dry weight (SDW) were significantly reduced in susceptible ones. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that resistant varieties maintained stable levels of lignin, cellulose, and polysaccharides, while susceptible ones exhibited extensive cell wall degradation. Additionally, total polyphenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) significantly increased in resistant varieties upon infection, whereas susceptible varieties experienced a substantial decline. These findings highlight the crucial role of structural and biochemical defenses in olive resistance to P. schmitthenneri and suggest that selecting resistant varieties could serve as a sustainable strategy for managing root rot in olive production.

Pumpkin is a high-value vegetable in Nepal, known for its unique flavor and market demand. However, low and inconsistent germination rates along with poor seedling vigor remain key challenges in its cultivation. To address these issues, seed priming is a viable option. Hence, an experiment was conducted from March to May, 2024 at Marin, Sindhuli, Nepal to analyze the effect of organic seed priming techniques on germination and seedling growth of Pumpkin. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with seven seed priming methods i.e., T1 (Control), T2 (Hydro-priming), T3 (Cow urine 6%), T4 (Buffalo urine 6%), T5 (Pig urine 6 %), T6 (Goat urine 6%) and T7 (Human urine 6%) each replicated three times. The results showed significantly the highest germination percentage (85.18%), dry root weight (0.82g), seedling vigor index-I (1819.15) seedling vigor index-II (357.97) in seeds primed with cow urine 6%. On the other hand, the minimum germination % (53.33%), seedling height (12.46 cm), shoot length (1.34 cm), root length (16.63 cm), fresh shoot weight (24.11 g), fresh root weight (2.28 g), dry shoot weight (2.47 g), seedling vigor index-I (957.09), seedling vigor index-II (161.49) were observed in control. In conclusion, seed priming with either cow urine 6% or pig urine 6% could be utilized as an option to enhance the germination and seedling growth of Pumpkin under greenhouse condition.

Okra cultivation often faces challenges related to poor seed germination and early seedling growth, necessitating innovative and sustainable solutions. This study was conducted during the spring season of 2024 at the Nursery Department of Horticulture, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, to evaluate the effect of priming with basil (Ocimum basilicum) leaf extract on the seed germination and seedling growth of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with two factors: okra varieties (Sabzpari and Crass) and basil leaf extract concentrations (control, tap water, 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7%) with three replications. Data were recorded for seed germination percentage, germination index, seedling vigor index, number of leaves per plant, fresh biomass of root and shoot, root length, plant height and chlorophyll content. The results indicated that basil leaf extract significantly influenced most growth parameters. The highest seed germination (87.50%) was observed with 1% and 3% basil leaf extract, whereas the lowest (70.83%) was recorded with tap water. The Crass variety exhibited a higher germination rate (85.39%) than Sabzpari (77.08%). The germination index was significantly improved by basil leaf extract, with the highest value (0.64) recorded at 3% concentration. Similarly, the seedling vigor index was highest (1290.00) at 3% basil leaf extract, with the Crass variety performing better overall. The number of leaves per plant peaked at 3.66 with 3% basil leaf extract, showing a significant treatment effect. Root and shoot biomass were significantly influenced by basil leaf extract concentrations. The maximum fresh root biomass (0.80 g) and fresh shoot biomass (2.93 g) were observed at 3% basil leaf extract. The highest plant height (39.52 cm) was recorded at 3% basil leaf extract, whereas the lowest (28.74 cm) was observed with tap water (0% basil leaf extract). Chlorophyll content was also significantly affected, with the highest value (42.18) at 3% basil leaf extract and the lowest (30.45) in the control treatment. After going through the findings of present research, it was concluded that the okra verities treated with 3% basil leaf extract showed superior performances in seed germination and growth parameters.

Downy mildew is one of the major patogen limiting maize productivity in Indonesia. Effective mitigation strategies are essential due to the significant yield losses it causes. Biological control is an environmentally viable alternative method of disease management. Bacillus spp. are biological control agent capable of producing metabolic chemicals that can inhibit plant infections, hence holding potential for downy mildew management. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Bacillus spp. from the maize rhizosphere to manage downy mildew and promote maize plant growth. The research employed a completely randomized block design, consisting of four treatments and six replications. The treatments comprised Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BB.R3, B. subtilis BK.R5, Bacillus spp. BK.R9, fungicides treatment (metalaxyl), and control group for comparison. The observed variables included spore germination, incubation period, disease incidence, disease severity, Area Under Disease Progression Curve (AUDPC), number of leaves, plant height, fresh shoot weight, and fresh root weight. The findings revealed that B. amyloliquefaciens BB.R3, B. subtilis BK.R5, and Bacillus spp. BK.R9 effectively inhibited downy mildew by decreasing spore germination by 80.55-100%, prolonging the incubation period, and inhibiting disease incidence by 20.37-53.70%, disease severity by 25.64-62.56%, and AUDPC by 22.21-63.37%. B. amyloliquefaciens BB.R3 can enhance plant growth by augmenting root weight by 122.63% and maize plant weight by 80.26%. ABSTRAK Penyakit bulai merupakan salah satu penyakit utama yang menghambat produksi jagung di Indonesia. Upaya pengelolaan penyakit bulai perlu dilakukan mengingat besarnya kehilangan yang ditimbulkan. Pengendalian hayati merupakan salah satu alternatif pengendalian yang ramah lingkungan dan berkelanjutan. Bacillus spp. adalah bakteri yang mampu menghasilkan senyawa metabolik, dapat mengendalikan pathogen tanaman sehingga berpotensi sebagai pengendali penyakit bulai. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan Bacillus spp. asal rizosfer untuk mengendalikan penyakit bulai dan mengoptimalkan pertumbuhan tanaman jagung. Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok Lengkap, dengan 4 perlakuan dan 6 ulangan. Perlakuan meliputi Bacillus amyloliquefaciens BB.R3, Bacillus subtilis BK.R5, Bacillus spp.. BK.R9, serta fungisida (metalaksil) dan kontrol sebagai pembanding. Variabel yang diamati meliputi perkecambahan spora, masa inkubasi, kejadian penyakit, intensitas penyakit, AUDPC, jumlah daun, tinggi tanaman, bobot tanaman segar, dan bobot akar segar. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan B. amyloliquefaciens BB.R3, B. subtilis BK.R5, Bacillus spp.. BK.R9 mampu menekan penyakit bulai jagung, dengan menurunkan perkecambahan spora 80,55-100 %, menunda masa inkubasi, menurunkan kejadian penyakit sebesar 20,37-53,70 %, intensitas penyakit sebesar 25,64-62,56%, dan AUDPC sebesar 22,21-63,37%. B. amyloliquefaciens BB.R3 dapat memacu pertumbuhan tanaman, dengan meningkatkan bobot akar sebesar 122,63 % dan bobot tanaman jagung sebesar 80,26%. Kata kunci: Bacillus, jagung, pengendalian hayati, Peronosclerospora maydis, ramah lingkungan

Soybean production in Indonesia currently does not meet national demand. However, there is potential to increase production by utilizing sub-optimal lands, such as Regosol soils. Regosol soils are characterized by a high sand content, low fertility, and poor water-holding capacity, which exposes plants to drought stress. To enhance soybean productivity under such conditions, technological innovations are needed, including the use of biofertilizers and nanotechnology. The Anjasmoro soybean variety is known to be relatively sensitive to drought stress. The application of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) and nanosilica is expected to improve nutrient uptake, stimulate the production of growth-promoting hormones, and enhance plant tolerance to drought stress. This study aimed to evaluate the growth and yield of the Anjasmoro soybean variety in response to PGPR and nanosilica fertilization. A factorial Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was employed, consisting of nanosilica concentrations (0, 100, and 200 ppm) and PGPR concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 15%). The results indicated that PGPR and nanosilica fertilization improved soybean tolerance to drought stress. The most effective treatment for enhancing the growth and yield of the Anjasmoro soybean variety on Regosol soil was the application of 10% PGPR combined with 200 ppm nanosilica. This treatment significantly increased pod number, pod weight, 100-seed weight, fresh shoot weight, dry shoot weight, fresh root weight, and chlorophyll content. Additionally, the application of 5% PGPR combined with 200 ppm nanosilica resulted in the best seed quality

Adequate indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentration enhances cutting success rates and promotes uniform root growth, resulting in healthy plants with the desired traits and higher yields. This research investigated the effects of different IBA concentrations (2000 ppm and 4000 ppm) on the rooting and shooting characteristics of rough lemon cuttings. The present study employed a random block design with nineteen treatments, each with three replicates. Furthermore, primary root count, secondary root count, root diameter, root length, fresh root mass, dry root mass root volume, rooting, root-to-shoot ratio, shoot diameter, shoot length, shoots number, leaves number, sprouting percentage, survival percentage, fresh shoot mass, dry shoot mass and leaf area were studied. The present study also employed a comparative analysis of carrier agents, i.e., talc and activated charcoal, in the application of IBA for rough lemon cutting propagation. The research explored the synergistic effects of zinc and IBA on the rooting and shooting aspects of rough lemon stem cuttings. The 2000 ppm IBA performed better than 4000 ppm in the rooting and shooting parameters of the rough lemon. The application of (activated charcoal powder + 2000 ppm IBA + 0.50 % ZnSO4) concentration had better effect on various shooting parameters of rough lemon cuttings. Cuttings treated with activated charcoal as a carrier agent for IBA demonstrated superior performance. Zinc at concentrations of 0.25 % and 0.50 % with IBA (2000 ppm and 4000 ppm) demonstrated superior performance as compared to IBA alone (2000 ppm and 4000 ppm) in various morphological attributes of rough lemon. This study highlights the optimization of horticultural practices for the successful propagation and cultivation of rough lemon plants.

This study evaluated the role of melatonin (MT) in mitigating chromium (Cr) stress, focusing on plant growth, antioxidant defense, ionic homeostasis, and secondary metabolites. We hypothesized that foliar applied MT would alleviate Cr induced physiological and biochemical alterations by enhancing antioxidant capacity and stabilizing nutrient uptake in Nigella sativa L. (kalonji). A pot experiment was performed using two kalonji varieties, subjected to 0 and 100 µM Cr in the rooting medium, with foliar MT treatments of 0, 15, and 30 µM. The Cr stress decreased the shoot length, root length (49%, 65.6%), shoot and root fresh weight (39%, 52.8%), shoot potassium (59.3%), and total chlorophyll (54%). While Cr induced an increase in proline (55.3%), glycine betaine (37.7%), total soluble sugar (50.2%), total soluble protein (63.2%), ascorbic acid (AsA;57.1%), peroxidase (POD;72.3%) and superoxide dismutase (SOD;48.8%) levels. Under Cr stress, fortification of 15 μM MT further enhanced total soluble sugars (21.6%), total soluble proteins (23.7%), AsA (25.9%), proline (21.9%), glycine betaine (20.1%), SOD (25.1%), POD (30.3%) and CAT (28%) contents. These results support the hypothesis that MT application (15 µM) mitigates Cr toxicity by modulating antioxidative and metabolic pathways, making it a promising, eco-friendly strategy for managing heavy metal stress in kalonji.