Local Farmers Research Articles

Development of an infiltration-based RNA preservation method for cryogen-free storage of leaves for gene expression analyses in field-grown plants

BackgroundGene expression is a fundamental process for plants to express their phenotype, and its analysis is the basis of molecular studies. However, the instability of RNA often poses an obstacle to analyzing plants grown in fields or remote locations where the availability of liquid nitrogen or dry ice is limited. To deepen our understanding of plant phenotypes and tolerance to field-specific stresses, it is crucial to develop methodologies to maintain plant RNA intact and safely transfer it for downstream analyses such as qPCR and RNA-seq.ResultsIn this study, the author developed a novel tissue preservation method that involved the infiltration of RNA preservation solution into the leaf apoplast using a syringe and subsequent storage at 4 °C. RNA-seq using samples stored for 5 d and principal component analyses showed that rice leaves treated with the infiltration method maintained the original transcriptome pattern better than those treated with the traditional method when the leaves were simply immersed in the solution. Additionally, it was also found that extracted RNA can be transported with minimum risk of degradation when it is bound to the membrane of RNA extraction kits. The developed infiltration method was applied to rice plants grown in a local farmer's field in northern Madagascar to analyze the expression of nutrient-responsive genes, suggesting nutrient imbalances in some of the fields examined.ConclusionsThis study showed that the developed infiltration method was effective in preserving the transcriptome status of rice and sorghum leaves when liquid nitrogen or a deep freezer is not available. The developed method was useful for diagnosing plants in the field based on the expression of nutrient-responsive marker genes. Moreover, the method used to protect RNA samples from degradation during transportation offers the possibility to use them for RNA-seq. This novel technique could pave the way for revealing the molecular basis of plant phenotypes by accelerating gene expression analyses using plant samples that are unique in the field.

From Farm to Glass: Championing Local Ingredients in Beverage Creation

The global beverage industry is during a transformation, driven by consumers seeking authenticity, sustainability, and a closer connection to the sources of their food and drink. As a result, there’s a growing movement among bartenders, beverage developers, and mixologists to incorporate locally sourced ingredients into their creations. This trend, often referred to as “farm-to-glass,” mirrors the farm-to-table movement in the culinary world, emphasizing traceability, seasonality, and the environmental and economic benefits of supporting local agriculture. In this article, we will explore the key facets of the farm-to-glass approach, including the importance of local ingredients, sustainability, economic benefits, flavor enhancement, and the creative challenges that come with it. By understanding these elements, we can appreciate how beverage creators are redefining the landscape of modern mixology and crafting a more sustainable, community-focused future for the industry. Keywords: Sustainability, Farm to Glass, Local Ingredients, Environmental Impact, Agriculture, Local Economies, Farmers, and producers, Locally Sourced, Eco-conscious.

Stakeholder Views on Harmful Effects of Herbicides in Four Communities in Birim South District, Ghana

The study investigated stakeholder perceptions of the harmful effects of herbicides in four communities within the Birim South District of Ghana. It seeks to understand the views of Junior High School students, their teachers, and local farmers concerning the health and environmental risks posed by herbicides. A cross-sectional survey involving 90 students, 30 teachers, and 60 farmers was conducted using a structured questionnaire with close-ended items. Descriptive analysis showed that all respondent groups agreed on the harmful effects of herbicides, particularly on water contamination, soil fertility, and health. The study highlighted a strong consensus among respondents regarding the adverse impacts of herbicides on plant biodiversity, wildlife, and air quality. However, discrepancies emerged concerning knowledge of air pollution and specific health risks like endocrine disruption. Farmers exhibited the highest awareness of herbicide-related risks compared to teachers and students. Concerns were also raised about the involvement of children in herbicide application, with evidence suggesting potential negative impacts on their academic performance and health. The findings call for enhanced educational programs targeting all stakeholders to correct misconceptions and promote safer herbicide practices.

Implementation of Subsidized Fertilizer Policy in Kotamobagu City

The objectives of this research are 1) to know, analyze, and describe the Implementation of Subsidized Fertilizer Policy in Kotamobagu City; 2) To find out and analyze and describe the factors that influence the Implementation of Subsidized Fertilizer Policy in Kotamobagu City. This research uses qualitative research methods with data collection techniques in the form of in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation studies. In this study, the focus of research is the implementation of subsidized fertilizer policies for farmers in Kotamobagu City with sub-focus research on sufficiency, equity, and accuracy. Informants in this study were determined using purposive sampling. The results showed that the implementation of the fertilizer policy in Kotamobagu City has not been effective. The influencing factors are 1) fertilizer distribution is often late and uneven distribution, 2) The distribution of subsidized fertilizers is no longer realized based on the Group Needs Definitive Plan (RDKK) as well as weak coordination and lack of active role in the preparation and implementation of the Group Needs Definitive Plan (RDKK), and 3) The inaccuracy of fertilizer availability is detrimental to farmers. Therefore, the recommendations of this study are 1) strengthen distribution supervision, 2) increase the role of farmer groups, and 3) strengthen collaboration between stakeholders: local government, farmer groups, distributors, and other related parties.

Rural Households' Vulnerability to Climate Variability and Adaptation Strategies in the Case of Begemdir District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Climate change vulnerability is the biggest threat to ecosystems and economies of the world. Hence, this study aims to assess the vulnerability to climate variability adaptation strategies of rural households in Begemdir District, Northwest Ethiopia. In this study, the cross-sectional research design was used to gain a wider and better understanding of vulnerability to climate variability. Both primary and secondary data were used to triangulate the study to maintain validity. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 sample households from the study area. Moreover, climatic data, such as rainfall and temperature data were collected from meteorological stations. The data gathered from primary data sources analyzed by using descriptive statistics. Finally, a logistic regression model was employed to identify the factors that affecting households' decisions to climate adaptation strategies in the study area. The results of the study reveal that the overall IPCC-LVI score is 0.49, and the perceived rainfall has decreased over the last decade. This implies livelihoods of the households are vulnerable to climate variability and low adaptive capacity. The age, sex, education level, extension services, land size, credit access, access to climatic information, access to credit, and extension services affected significantly (p < 0.05) households' vulnerability to climate variability in the study area. Thus, the local governments, policymakers, non-governmental organizations, and farming communities need to consider these variables to realize climate change adaptation strategies in the study area. Moreover, higher focus should be given to enhancing education, expanding access to credit, increasing land management support, as well as strengthening extension services to build long-term sustainable climate-resilient practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change vulnerability to households in the study area.

Forest local community perception on sengon pest and disease and forest soil properties

Abstract Banten Forest Management Unit (FMU) is undertaking an effort to develop sengon (Falcataria falcata) as a wood-producing commodity alongside teak, acacia, and mahagony. Local farmers carrying out sengon propagation assist in this development effort. Improper practices of propagating and cultivating sengon and the need for more public knowledge regarding pests and diseases that attack sengon raise questions regarding the public’s perception of cultivation techniques and control of plant pests and diseases. Training on sengon cultivation and introducing pests and diseases on sengon plants was held on 25 November 2023 at the Cigembor Wood Collecion Place (WCP), inten Jaya Village, Lebak, Banten. In total, 30 participants who were members of a forest local community (LMDH) at Perum Perhutani FMU Banten attended this activity. The training method involves presentations and direct practice in the field. The results of the pre- and post-test evaluation showed an increase of 25% in knowledge of pests and diseases in sengon plants and 10% in knowledge of sengon cultivation. The test results also showed that 8 out of 10 participants could differentiate between forest pests and diseases. Furthermore, 10 out of 10 participants knew the harvest age for sengon. In general, this training increased the participants’ knowledge and experience in cultivating sengon and identifying pests and diseases in sengon plants.

Economic effects of wild boar damage to crops in protected areas of Nepal

Human wild-boar conflict is one of the prominent issues in Nepal, especially in areas adjacent to protected areas. Wild boars cause substantial damage to the agricultural crops and affect the lives of rural farmers through economic loss. However, the extent of this loss varies across protected areas. Thus, this study aims to compare the economic loss due to crop damage by wild boar between two protected areas with different management regimes; Shuklaphanta National Park (ShNP) and Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve (DHR). We used a questionnaire survey and descriptive statistics to characterize and compare the pattern of human wild boar conflicts between ShNP and DHR. Altogether, the two protected areas experienced a crop damage of 87,035.78kg with an estimated economic loss of 26,389 USD in our study. The most damaged crop in the ShNP was paddy whereas that in DHR was potato. We recorded a higher crop damage and economic loss in ShNP than in DHR. However, the severity of conflict is higher in DHR with around 8% of the total production damaged by wild boar. Although the government declared wild boar an agricultural menace in 2023 and permitted killing on private lands, local communities should also apply other mitigation measures to prevent wild boars from entering crop fields. Additionally, the potential introduction of trophy hunting in ShNP (already permitted in DHR), following comprehensive studies, could help reduce economic losses associated with human-wild boar conflicts. Such combined efforts could create a more sustainable approach to managing wild boar populations while safeguarding local agriculture and livelihoods.

Determining the Usefulness of Land Information Management System (LIMS) in Ending Land Disputes in Zimbabwean A1 Farms

This study sought to determine the usefulness of the Land Information Management System (LIMS) for the resolution of Land Disputes in Marondera District A1 resettlement areas. The research was inspired by the continued occurrence of land disputes in Marondera A1 Farms. The main thrust of the research was to determine to assess the usefulness of the LIMS model in ending land disputes in Marondera District A1 farms. The study adopted a mixed research approach hinged on pragmatism research philosophy. A cross-sectional survey research design was used. The research used stratified random sampling for quantitative data whilst purposive sampling was used for the collection of qualitative data. Structured questionnaires and interview guides were the two major instruments that were used. A sample size of 373 participants was drawn from the Department of Lands Marondera, the Zimbabwe Lands Commission, Extension officers, and A1 farmers in areas of Wenimbi, Mushandira, and Ruware in Marondera. The sample size was arrived at using the Raosoft sample size calculator. The sample size for qualitative data was not predetermined but was arrived at using the saturation principle. In the analysis of quantitative data, tables, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics were produced using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. The presentation of qualitative data followed a thematic approach in which responses were shown using word cloud analysis. The study revealed that the improved LIMS will enable land registration, land use planning, land dispute resolution, and data analysis and reporting. It was recommended in the study that the government encourage open communication and collaboration among local communities, farmers, and authorities to address grievances and prevent conflicts, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and ownership. Also with LIMS government conducts a thorough audit to identify and resolve issues related to land ownership, boundaries, and usage, helping to prevent future disputes.

Strategic Approaches to University Product Marketing in the Global Market

This community service program, conducted by Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK) in collaboration with Thaksin University (TSU), aimed to promote effective marketing strategies for university best local products to expand their presence in global markets. The program focused on the utilization of Aceh's patchouli oil, a product with substantial international demand, as an example of how local resources can be developed into competitive products for the global market. The methods used included dissemination sessions, interactive discussions, and demonstrations of products produced by the cooperative to both local farmers and academic partners in Thailand. The results indicated increased participant awareness of the potential of local products, with the Inovac ARC Cooperative playing a key role in the development and marketing of these products. The success of the program was attributed to the integration of product innovation, strategic marketing, and collaboration with international partners. Future programs should focus on strengthening international partnerships and exploring digital marketing strategies to enhance market access for local products. Decision-makers are encouraged to support cooperative initiatives that combine local expertise with global market standards.

Development of High-Quality Organic Fertilizer from Biomass Waste and the Application of Biochar in Local Areas of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand

This study investigates the production of high-quality organic fertilizers from biomass waste in the Ban Wa Yai community of Sakon Nakhon Province, Northeastern Thailand, aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices amidst challenges such as soil degradation and reliance on chemical fertilizers. The primary objective was to develop organic fertilizers that enhance soil health and support plant growth while utilizing locally sourced biomass materials, including cow and buffalo manure, finely ground fermented leaf scraps, and weed debris. A fermentation process lasting 15 to 30 days was used, integrating biochar to improve nutrient profiles and microbial activity. Results showed optimal pH levels of 8.04 after 15 days and 7.94 after 30 days of fermentation, beneficial for addressing the region’s acidic soil conditions (pH 4.67 - 5.38). The germination index (GI) was notably high at 129 ± 1.86 after 30 days, indicating effective growth promotion potential. Analytical assessments confirmed nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) concentrations in the organic fertilizers met or exceeded organic standards, supporting plant nutrition and fostering healthy microbial ecosystems. The organic matter (OM) and organic carbon (OC) content were approximately 40 - 60 % higher than commercial alternatives, enhancing soil structure, aeration, and water retention. Additionally, calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) levels improved the nutrient profile, with Ca slightly exceeding standard limits, which helps ameliorate soil acidity. Economic analysis indicated a 40 % reduction in fertilizer costs for local farmers, promoting a shift towards organic practices. Overall, this study emphasizes the significance of self-reliance and the sufficiency economy philosophy in fostering sustainable agriculture practices within the Ban Wa Yai community. By utilizing local resources and transitioning from chemical fertilizers to high-quality organic fertilizers, the community enhances agricultural productivity while promoting economic independence and resilience. Such initiatives exemplify the potential for integrating traditional practices with modern agricultural methods to ensure a sustainable future. HIGHLIGHTS The study developed high-quality organic fertilizers from local biomass waste, enhancing sustainable agricultural practices in the Ban Wa Yai community. Fermentation resulted in optimal pH and nutrient levels (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), surpassing commercial fertilizer standards and improving soil health. Transitioning to organic fertilizers led to a 40 % cost reduction for farmers, promoting self-reliance and aligning with the sufficiency economy philosophy. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Rental and sale prices of agricultural lands under spatial competition

Much of the land economics literature has largely ignored the spatial nature of competition and related differences between farmland rental and sales markets when assessing return rates from farming, the capitalization of agricultural, environmental and energy policy into land values, and climate change impacts. We propose a model for price formation in both markets under a spatial competition framework. We demonstrate that price formation differs, particularly under policy-induced output price shocks.We suggest that using the rent-price ratio as an approximation for expectations in the net returns of farming, based on the net present value model, may produce biased results. In consequence, studies relying on land prices need to control for local land competition, farming structure, and policies.

First report of anthelmintic resistance among sheep in six farms from three governorates in Jordan

This study aimed to identify the presence of gastrointestinal nematode populations resistant to albendazole, levamisole, and ivermectin in six farms located in three regions of Jordan (Irbid, Mafraq, and Ma'an). Infected sheep (40 per farm) with at least 100 eggs per gram were randomly divided into four groups (10 animals per group). Three groups were treated with ivermectin, albendazole, or levamisole while the fourth group was used as a negative control group. The standard faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) was used to assess the drugs' efficacy. Resistance to ivermectin and albendazole was detected in all studied farms while resistance to levamisole was detected in four of the sampled farms. FECRT ranged from 55.6 % (90 % Confidence Intervals (CI): 29.6 % - 79.6 %) to 80.3 % (CI: 48.3 % - 92.1 %) for ivermectin, 77.4 % (CI: 53.2–86.7 %) to 95 % (CI: 85.8–97.6 %) for albendazole, and 86 % (CI: 46.1–95.6 %) to 99.4 % (CI: 97.6–99.7 %) for levamisole. Post-treatment copro-cultures, faecal floatation and/or Baermann technique indicated the presence of larvae of Haemonchus spp. in all of the sampled farms, followed by Nematodirus spp. in four farms, Trichostrongylus spp. in three farms, then Marshallagia spp. in one farm. This is the first study of its kind in Jordan that shows widespread anthelmintic resistance for gastrointestinal nematodes in geographically distant sheep farms in Jordan. Such widespread resistance to anthelmintics imposes a risk of failure to the present control programs and urges for changing the methodology of selecting effective anthelmintic treatments in local farms.

Effects of rainwater on the carrageenan yield and quality and dry yield biomass of eucheumatoid seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii

Kappaphycus alvarezii, a commercially valuable eucheumatoid seaweed, is widely cultivated in equatorial regions for its kappa-carrageenan. A common post-harvest practice among local farmers involves drying the seaweed using the hanging method, often with exposure to rain. This study investigates the effects of rainwater exposure on the carrageenan yield and quality, as well as the dry yield biomass, of K. alvarezii. Four rainwater soaking times (0, 30, 60, and 90 min) were applied to both fresh and dried forms of K. alvarezii. The samples were then dried or re-dried, and their carrageenan properties were analyzed. Results indicate that rainwater significantly reduces dry yield biomass in both fresh and dried forms, while substantially improving carrageenan yield. In its fresh form, exposure to rainwater notably increased gel strength after 90 min of soak. However, when dried seaweed was soaked and re-dried, gel strength was reduced. Rainwater generally had no effect on viscosity or syneresis index. Gelling temperature was significantly affected by rainwater exposure in fresh seaweed but not in dried samples. Melting temperature in fresh forms was unaffected, but rainwater exposure reduced it in dried seaweed after 90 min of soak. Moisture content was significantly reduced by rainwater in both fresh and dried forms. This research highlights the potential impacts of rainwater on the post-harvest processing of Kappaphycus.

Partisan winds: Group-level polarization and issue-framing propel attitudes about local wind farms

Political polarization is an obstacle to public support and effective communication for renewable energy projects. Depolarizing messages can be helpful, but it is difficult to determine where to concentrate efforts until social scientists first disentangle the effects of unconscious issue-based and conscious group norm-based polarization processes. This study investigates the extent to which attitudes towards wind energy development are polarized in the United States, focusing on attitudes about local wind farms. We tested different frames in a survey with 1300 U.S. participants, combining implicit and explicit attitude measures to measure unconscious and conscious attitudes towards nearby wind farms, respectively. Our findings suggest that explicit attitudes towards wind farms are more polarized than implicit attitudes, emphasizing the role of conscious processes in shaping attitudes. Furthermore, perceptions of within-party support significantly influence explicit attitudes, indicating the importance of group norm-based polarization in this context. While our framing interventions aimed at addressing issue-based polarization yielded mixed results, the moderating effect of perceived within-party support underscores the potential efficacy of interventions targeting group-level processes. Regarding policy implications, our findings highlight the importance of considering both issue-based and group norm-based polarization when developing and implementing communication strategies for garnering local support for nearby renewable energy developments.

Cultivating sustainable futures: multi-environment evaluation and seed yield stability of faba bean (Vicia faba L.) genotypes by using different stability parameters in Ethiopia

Faba bean is an important legume crop with significant potential to contribute to sustainable agricultural systems and food security in Ethiopia. Despite its importance, the crop is prone to various biotic and abiotic constraints that can reduce seed yield and affect its stability and adaptability. To identify stable and adaptable genotypes, 10 faba bean genotypes were evaluated at three locations over two growing seasons using different stability parameters. Genotype-by-environment interaction (GGE biplot) and additive main effect and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) analyses are the statistical methods used to evaluate crop genotype performance across different environments to identify high-performing, stable, and adaptable genotypes and to highlight preferable environments for genotype differentiation. This study utilized cultivar superiority, regression coefficients, and deviations from regression parameters that provide valuable insights into genotype performance under varying environmental conditions. This approach helps to identify robust cultivars that can thrive across different agricultural settings and challenges, ultimately contributing to improved crop production and food security. The results revealed that G9, G8, and G7 are the three most stable and adaptable genotypes. These faba bean genotypes showed greater resilience to environmental changes and improved suitability for sustainable production, making them better options for local farmers. They also bolster resilience against climate variability and ultimately ensure agricultural sustainability. The AMMI model indicated that the genotype-environment interaction (GEI) significantly influences seed yield. These findings provide crucial insights into the genetic potential of faba bean genotypes that can help breeding programs to develop high-yielding, adaptable, and stable varieties for the region and other areas with similar agro-ecological conditions.

Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) Toxins in Bivalve Molluscs from Southern Italy Analysed by Liquid Chromatography Coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS).

A new method for simultaneous determination by liquid chromatography coupled with high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS/MS) of 14 paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins (PSP), that is, Saxitoxin, Neosaxitoxin, Gonyautoxins and their respective variants, in bivalve molluscs, is herein described. The samples were extracted by acetic acid solution, then analysed by UHPLC coupled with a Q-Exactive Orbitrap Plus high resolution mass spectrometer, by electrospray ionization mode (ESI) with no further clean up step. The analysis was carried out by monitoring both the exact mass of the molecular precursor ion of each compound (in mass scan mode, resolution at 70,000 FWHM) and its respective fragmentation patterns (two product ions) with mass accuracy greater than 5 ppm. The analytical performance of the method was evaluated calculating trueness, as mean recoveries of each biotoxin, between 77.8% and 111.9%, a within-laboratory reproducibility (RSDR) between 3.6% and 12.2%, the specificity, the linearity of detector response, and the ruggedness for slight changes The results of the validation study demonstrate this method fits for the purposes of the official control of PSP toxins in molluscs. The results of two years of monitoring in local mussel farms are also reported, showing that no significant concerns for food safety in the monitored productions.

Design, Construction and Performance Evaluation of Cotton Fabric Layer Materials in Micro-Capillary Absorptive Evaporative Cooling

Global warming and climate change are environmental issues and they can drive the necessity for efficient cooling materials in energy-efficient cold storage. A sustainable alkali-treated cotton fabric layers used as evaporative cooling system that could assist the local farmers store and extend their produce with minimal energy use. The study aims to develop an efficient evaporative cooling system using alkali-treated cotton fabric layers used as a noble cooling material. From the analytical measurements, the maximum airflow temperature drops and wet bulb depression were 3.4 and 8.95 in the day in January 2022, 2.85 and 7.35 in the day in March 2022, and 1.05 and 6.4 in the day in December 2021 mid-day operations. While maximum cooling efficiency fell in the range of 53.97%, 53.00%, and 23.08% at about 0.44 m/s airflow velocities, respectively in January 2022, March 2022, and December 2021 mid-day test operations. The corresponding cooling capacities of the three mid-days’ operations in January 2022, March 2022, and December 2021 also calculated, and the results were 44.84 w, 13.85 w, and 37.57 w. The results show the direct proportional relationship between airflow velocities and cooling performance in the developed capillary absorptive evaporative cooling. Further research into different fabric layer geometric configurations and airflow dehumidifier composite adsorbed bed layer is necessary to improve cold air production and excel energy efficiency.

From Perception to Practices: Adoption of Ecosystem-Based Adaptation in Vietnam Upland Areas—A Case Study in Thua Thien Hue Province

In the context of increasing interest in ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA), there remains a paucity of discussion regarding the transition from perception to practice in aiding farmer households to adapt to climate change (CC) while maintaining the provision of essential ecosystem services. Thus, this study aims to explore policymakers’ and local people’s perceptions, from thinking about the implementation of EbA strategies to responding to CC in current and future agricultural production and forestry in upland Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam. This study has adopted the Model of Private Proactive Adaptation to CC to investigate the perceptions of EbA among various administrative and household levels through in-depth interviews and focus group discussion methods. Our findings indicate a significant relationship between the perceptions and understanding of EbA among policymakers and farmer households, and the adoption of EbA practices. Many EbA practices are already well-established and have demonstrated their ability to enhance ecosystem services provision, adaptation benefits, and livelihood and food security. These benefits are crucial for helping farmer households to adapt to CC. However, current financial, technical, and market constraints hinder the broader adoption of these practices. Therefore, to increase adaptive capacity to CC and upscale EbA practices, EbA interventions must consider technical, financial, and market aspects. Furthermore, it is essential to provide evidence from both scientific and practical perspectives and disseminate information on EbA practices to encourage broader adoption by local farmers. In addition, supportive policies from various departmental and agency levels are necessary for managers in the agricultural and forest sectors as well as households to recognize EbA as a vital strategy for developing agriculture and forestry in a manner that is sustainable and resilient to CC.

Optimizing Micronutrient Management for Improved Growth and Yield of Broccoli Varieties in Coastal Bangladesh

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica L.) is a nutrient-dense vegetable, widely valued for its health-promoting properties, yet its cultivation in Bangladesh is hindered by nutrient deficiencies and limited adoption of effective fertilization practices. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of boron (B) and zinc (Zn) application on the growth, yield, and quality of two broccoli varieties— ‘Green Carpet’ and ‘Early You’—in the Gangetic Tidal Floodplain region, where soil deficiencies in these micronutrients are common. A two-factor Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed, with treatments consisting of four B and Zn application levels: control (M0), 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M1), 2.5 kg B + 4.5 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M2), and 3 kg B + 5 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M3). Growth parameters, curd characteristics, and yield were measured to determine the optimal nutrient application level and variety for local conditions. The findings revealed that the combination of 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ (M1) with the ‘Early You’ variety (V2) produced the most significant improvements in plant height, leaf growth, stem length and diameter, and primary curd size. The combination of ‘Early variety’ and 2 kg B + 4 kg Zn ha⁻¹ treatment significantly reduced days to curd initiation and produced the highest yield per hectare (20.18 tons), outperforming the control treatment (13.01 tons). This combination also resulted in higher dry weight and greater nutritional density of the broccoli curds, emphasizing the critical role of B and Zn in promoting growth, structural robustness, and curd development. Both primary and secondary curd weights were notably enhanced under M1, particularly with ‘Early You’, highlighting the synergistic effect of variety-specific nutrient optimization. These results underscore the potential of tailored boron and zinc applications to address soil nutrient deficiencies and optimize broccoli production under Bangladesh’s unique agroecological conditions. By adopting the recommended M1 micronutrient treatment and prioritizing the ‘Early You’ variety, local farmers can achieve higher yields and improved broccoli quality, contributing to enhanced food security and economic sustainability in the region. This study provides a foundational framework for future research on nutrient management strategies in broccoli and serves as a model for other regions with similar soil nutrient constraints.

Research on the Trusted Traceability Model of Taishan Tea Products Based on Blockchain

In recent years, the rapid development of the Taishan tea industry has become a business card of local specialty agriculture. However, as consumers’ demands for Taishan tea product quality and safety continue to improve, the centralized database traceability system that the traditional Taishan tea industry relies on shows insufficient information credibility and core data security risks, making it difficult to match the diversified expectations of the market and consumers. In order to solve this problem, this paper proposes a trusted traceability model for Taishan tea based on blockchain technology, which utilizes blockchain technology and data hierarchical uploading mechanism to ensure data accuracy and transparency, and, at the same time, improves data uploading efficiency. The optimized SM2 encryption algorithm is introduced, and the execution efficiency of the encryption algorithm is improved by the concurrent processing framework, which guarantees the security and transmission speed of the data. The experimental results show that the blockchain-based trusted traceability model for Taishan tea significantly improves the data security, query, and writing speed, and greatly optimizes the problems of traditional traceability methods. With this research, the results in this paper not only help to improve the quality and safety of Taishan tea products but also provide technical support for the production enterprises to enhance their brand competitiveness.