Flowering Phase Research Articles

A transcriptomic analysis of ethephon-induced sex reversion of male Cannabis sativa L. reveals changes in expression of floral homeotic genes and a distinct trichome morphology.

Cannabis sativa is a dioecious crop whose agricultural productivity is linked to its sex expression. In a medicinal context, only female flowers produce an abundance of glandular trichomes responsible for producing valuable cannabinoids. Thus, understanding sex-determining factors is vital in Cannabis sativa crop improvement for specific end uses. Although an X/Y sex chromosome system determines sex, manipulating ethylene pathways can alter sex expression. We used comparative RNA-seq and metabolite analysis on floral tissue to explore the regulation of male-to-female sex reversion and changes in secondary metabolite production induced by the ethylene donor ethephon. Differentially expressed gene analysis revealed significant alterations in class B and E floral homeotic gene homologue expression early in the flowering phase, which pointed to their direct role in forming unisexual flowers in Cannabis. Metabolite analysis indicated a higher proportion of sesquiterpenes and Cannabichromenic acid in the induced female flowers compared to non-induced female flowers. Combined with a morphological comparison of trichomes, the secondary metabolite profiles indicated a preferential development of sessile trichomes via upregulation of a GLABRA1 homologue. This study enhances our understanding of ethylene-driven sex-regulation and its link to secondary metabolite accumulation in Cannabis sativa.

FEATURES OF ACCUMULATION AND PROPERTIES OF AMORPHOUS SILICA IN PANICLES AND OTHER ORGANS OF RICE IN THE ONTOGENESIS OF VARIETIES OF FAR EASTERN BREEDING

The features of accumulation, chemical composition and properties of silica in panicles and other organs of rice Oryza sativa of a number of varieties of Far Eastern breeding at different stages of ontogenesis are investigated. The physicochemical parameters of ash samples obtained from rice panicles are studied: chemical composition, acid-base properties, specific surface area values, their dependence on the rice variety is shown. In the aboveground parts of plants selected in the flowering phase, the ash yield depends on the plant variety, the highest values are observed for the ultra-ripe Cascade variety, which is characterized by a short, thick and strong stem. During the period of full maturation of rice panicles, the ash content of fruit scales (husks) increases by 1.5–2 times. The highest content of silicon dioxide in the ash of the aboveground shoot of rice plants is observed in samples of fruit scales, both in the flowering phase (92.7-97.8%) and in the full ripeness phase (98.7%). By the method of X-ray phase analysis, it was found that the ash residues of straw in the flowering phase are in an amorphous–crystalline state, and in the full ripeness phase - mainly in an amorphous state. The maximum proportion of extractive substances was noted in the samples obtained from the leaf blade, which is determined by the phase of plant development, the assimilation function of the leaves and the transport function of the stems.

COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF MELILOTUS OFFICINALIS AND MELILOTUS ALBUS ESSENTIAL OILS GROWING IN THE ASTRAKHAN REGION

Using the hydrodistillation method, samples of essential oil were obtained from the ground parts of Melilotus officinalis and Melilotus albus, growing wild in the Astrakhan region during the flowering phase. The duration of the steam distillation process was established experimentally based on studying the dynamics of changes in the yield of essential oil over time. The yield of essential oil was determined in % based on the weight of absolutely dry raw materials. The highest yield of essential oil is obtained from plants during the flowering phase (0.8–0.9%). Using gas-liquid chromatography, a quantitative analysis of the main components of the essential oil samples of M. officinalis and M. albus was carried out. The quantitative content of essential oil components was calculated from the areas of gas chromatographic peaks without using correction factors. Qualitative analysis was performed by comparing linear retention indices. The main component of the essential oil of M. officinalis and M. albus is coumarin, the content of which is 86.37 and 80.02%, respectively. In the essential oil of M. albus, the major components are also di-2-ethylhexyl ester of palmitic acid (10.5%), carvone hydrate (1.49%), and humulene (1.10%). Other major components of M. officinalis essential oil besides coumarin are phenylethyl alcohol (3.19%), caryophyllene (2.15%), actinidin (1.39%), and dihydrocoumarin (1.29%).

Patterns of change in floral color and odor of Lonicera calcarata are in relation to pollinator behavior

Abstract Floral color and odor serve as attractants for pollinators. It remains unclear how changes in these traits in color‐change species interact with pollinators and impact a plant's reproductive success. Lonicera calcarata flowers change from white (Night 1 [N1] and Day 1 [D1]) through yellow (Night 2 [N2]) and orange (Day 2 [D2]) to orange‐red (Night 3 [N3] and Day 3 [D3]). Our research showed that floral characters, stigma activity, nectar production and floral spectral reflectance decreased through the flowering phases. Floral odor mainly comprised fatty acids, aldehydes, monoterpenes and alcohols, especially n‐hexadecanoic acid, hexadecanal and 3‐carene. Floral odor peaked on N1 and N3, largely due to the presence of fatty acids. The emission of n‐hexadecanoic acid was higher on N1 and N3 compared with other phases, while hexadecanal emission remained constant throughout the flowering stages. The emission of 3‐carene was highest on N1. Lonicera calcarata was mainly pollinated by the moth Chorodna strixaria, the butterfly Acosmeryx naga and three bumblebees (Bombus melanurus, B. eximius, B. sonani) and they all preferred to visit white (younger) flowers. Moths had a preference for 3‐carene and no significant preference for n‐hexadecanoic acid and hexadecanal. Seed sets of nocturnal pollination and control treatments were not significantly different. Lonicera calcarata could produce seeds by self‐pollination; cross‐pollination significantly increased the seed set. Floral color guides pollinators to visit younger flowers with more floral rewards and higher stigma activity. Different chemical compounds in floral odor may not only attract pollinators but also avoid herbivore damage.

Study of anatomy-diagnostic features of leaves of Cynara scolymus L. grown under the conditions of the Kyrgyz Republic

Introduction. Cynara scolymus shows potential benefits in various fields. Its nutritional value and health benefits make it a promising candidate for improving general well-being. C. scolymus exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, choleretic, antimicrobial and lipid-lowering neuroprotective properties. The large amount of polyphenol found in C. scolymus has antioxidant activity, which allows it to neutralize free radicals, preventing cell damage. This reduces the subsequent risk of developing conditions such as cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Therefore, this plant could potentially be developed as a candidate for new domestic pharmaceuticals. Plant characteristics including microscopic, physicochemical properties and phytochemical profiles are essential information to ensure the quality of raw materials in drug development.Alm. To study the macro and micromorphological characters of C. scolymus leaves for introduction into medical practice.Materials and methods. Dried leaves of artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.), collected in the flowering phase (June) of 2023, in the Osh region of the Kyrgyz Republic, were used as the object of the study. To detect characteristic external features of artichoke prickly leaves, an external examination of the analytical sample was carried out visually (10 × ). Microscopic and histochemical examination was carried out in accordance with GF RF XV ed. OFS 1.5.3.0003 "Microscopic and microchemical analysis of medicinal plant raw materials and drugs of plant origin" on a microscope Leica DM1000 (Leica Microsystems CMS GmbH, Germany) with an eyepiece 10×/20 and lenses 10×/0.25, 40×/0.65, 100×/1.25. The images were displayed through the program "Leica LAS v4.13 Software".Results and discussion. As a result of the research, characteristic morphological and anatomical features of artichoke leaves were established. Macroscopic features: leaves of oblong, broadly lanceolate shape, 50–70 cm long and 20–40 cm wide, unpaired, pinnately pinnately dissected, leaf margin coarsely ridged; petiole is fleshy, weakly expressed, ribbed; veining is pinnate. At the ends of leaf plates there are thin spike-like outgrowths. The color of the upper surface is grayish-green, the lower surface is silvery-gray or white-white. The odor when rubbed is weak, the taste of aqueous extract is sharply bitter. Microscopic features: upper epidermis consists of isodiametric and polygonal polygonal cells with straight walls, above veins epidermal cells are elongated. Stomata of the upper epidermis are oval, those of the lower epidermis are more rounded. Stomata are surrounded by 4–5 epidermal cells. Artichoke leaf trichomes are represented by simple and cephalic hairs. Simple hairs are multicellular, have a single row base consisting of 2–8 short, sometimes expanded cells. Simple setae end in a long, slender, sinuous thin-walled cell. Cephalic setae have a short multicellular bilobed pedicel and a rounded unicellular head, sometimes with a conspicuous yellowish oily content. The transverse section of the main vein (without leaf lamina) is semi-rounded with a slightly concave adaxial and convexly ribbed abaxial surface. Conductive bundles are collateral, large ones open and small ones closed. Simple and cephalic hairs can be observed on the epidermis of the vein.Conclusion. For the first time studies on macro- and microscopic features of leaves of prickly artichoke, grown in the conditions of the Kyrgyz Republic, necessary to establish the authenticity and quality assessment of raw materials have been carried out.

Colonization effect of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. on tomato plant and Bemisia tabaci

Whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) is an insect threatening tomato production in Egypt. This study investigated the impacts of the entomopathogenic fungi species, Beauveria bassiana, isolate against B. tabaci on tomato plants under natural conditions in two seasons (2023–2024). Conidial powder was directly applied to the soil. Fungus was added to the fertilization treatments (BF) and was compared with fertilization (CF) and control (C0). The findings indicated notable significant variations in the population densities of B. tabaci in comparison to the other groups in two seasons. This fungus can also be used as a growth enhancer besides being a biopesticide for tomato crops. Tomato leaf samples were collected in three growth phases: vegetative, flowering, and fruiting phases in addition to ripe tomato fruits. Collected leaves were dried and used to detect defense mechanisms through estimating phenolic compounds such as tannins and flavonoids and total protein content, while tomato fruits were used to estimate ascorbic acid level as a growth promotion indicator in the tested tomato plants. B. bassiana -treated plants showed a significant increase in total tannins compared to fertilization-treated plants and non-significant increase compared to control. While Total Protein Content (TPC) was significantly higher in fertilization-treated plants than in B. bassiana -treated plants and control it was only increased significantly in the bioagent treatment than in the control. For total flavonoids, a non-significant increase was detected in total flavonoids content in B. bassiana-treated plants than in fertilization- treated plants and controls. Beauveria bassiana -treated tomato fruits recorded the highest value of ascorbic acid content, which significantly increased than fertilization treatment and non-significantly increased compared to the control. Generally, the interaction between treatments and growth phases in total tannin content, total protein content, and total flavonoid content was not statistically significant, which means there is no behavior for B. bassiana treatment on the plant resistance mechanism during the different growth stages, and the highest level for each was recorded in the flowering phase compared to the vegetative and fruiting phases. Also, the findings indicated the highest yield was represented by adding B. bassiana to the soil. The obtained results from this study refer to the beneficial role of B. bassiana in systemic resistance induction stimulated by tannin content in the tested tomato plants against whitefly attacks.

Transforming growth: exposing the effects of salicylic acid and hydrogel (SAP) on mustard crops for increased yield and sturdiness

The dry and semi-arid regions of the Indo-Gangetic plains have significant water-related difficulties. Brassica juncea, often known as mustard, is a resilient crop that flourishes during the rabi season and requires a reduced amount of water in comparison to other crops. A research study was conducted during the rabi season of 2020-21 to evaluate the effects of hydrogel SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer) and foliar spray of salicylic acid on different development stages of mustard crop. Based on research findings, the utilization of hydrogel @ 5.0 kg/ha, in conjunction with a foliar application of salicylic acid 200 ppm concentration, throughout the flowering and siliqua formation phases, had a significant impact on several yield characteristics. The aforementioned characteristics encompass seed yield (2613 kg/ha), stover yield (5435 kg/ha), soil moisture content (23.59%), relative water content in leaves, protein content and yield, SPAD value, proline, and NR B:C ratio (1.59). The utilization of hydrogel and salicylic acid has the potential to enhance the sustainable and efficient production and profitability of mustard crops in the arid and semi-arid regions of Haryana state of India.

Ex Situ Conservation and Ornamental Evaluation of the Endangered Amberboa moschata (Asteraceae) in Armenia

Amberboa moschata (L.) DC. (Asteraceae) is an endangered species, listed in the Red Book of Plants of the Republic of Armenia. The restricted extent of occurrence and habitat degradation necessitate conservation measures of this species, not only in the wild but also through ex situ cultivation. This study examines the comprehensive morpho-phenological, karyological, palynological, eco-physiological, and ornamental characteristics of A. moschata in the context of ex situ conservation. A. moschata plants cultivated ex situ demonstrated high adaptive traits, undergoing a full development cycle and experiencing less water stress compared to wild populations. The diploid cytotype has been found for the species to be 2n = 32, the karyotype is asymmetric, with chromosomes, 0.77–1.91 µm in size. The average pollen fertility of A. moschata is high, 96.7–96.9% in both natural and cultivated samples. A scale of decorativeness was developed, which includes 15 characteristics of the plant, providing an objective means to assess its visual appeal. The scale can be useful for integrating A. moschata into various landscaping schemes. Under cultivation, the total ornamental period lasts approximately 98 days, with the peak ornamental effect observed during the flowering phase, which spans 68–70 days. The study recommends A. moschata for inclusion in living collections in botanical gardens and for use in ornamental gardening and landscaping as part of its ex situ conservation strategy. A map, original photographs, and tables illustrate the article.

Phenology of Flowering Time and Flowering Duration of Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Kamang Magek District and Padang City

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the horticultural commodities with high economic value whose growth is greatly influenced by environmental conditions. This study aims to examine the phenology of tomato plants, including the time of flowering and flowering duration in different environmental conditions as a basis for developing more effective cultivation techniques. The study was conducted in two locations, namely Kamang Magek District and Padang City, with 20 replications per location. Phenology observations were carried out on the time of flowering and flowering duration of tomato plants, and the data obtained were analyzed using the t-test at a significance level of 5%. The results showed a significant difference between the two locations, where the average time of flowering in Kamang Magek District was 38.5 days after planting (DAP) with a flowering duration of 10.85 days, while in Padang City the time of flowering occurred at 75.8 DAP with a flowering duration of 30.3 days. This difference indicates that environmental conditions in Kamang Magek District are more supportive of accelerating the flowering phase with a shorter flowering cycle.

Approaches to grass standardization the moldovan snakehead

Introduction. Dracocephalum moldavica L. is an annual herbaceous plant of the Lamiaceae family. The above-ground part of this plant contains various biologically active substances – essential oil, flavonoids and their glycosides, phenolic acids, triterpenoids, steroids, lignans, anthocyanins, iridoids, polysaccharides, pectin substances. A method for obtaining a pharmaceutical substance in the form of a dry extract has been developed at VILAR. In vivo and in vitro experiments have shown that it has pronounced anti-inflammatory and gastroprotective activities, which may be promising for its further study. One of the main conditions for ensuring the quality of the developed substance is the solution of issues of standardization of the herb of the Moldavian dragonhead and the extract obtained from it. Objective: To establish criteria of authenticity and quality indicators that allow for quality control of the herb of the Moldavian dragonhead. Material and methods. The object of the study is dried Moldavian dragonhead herb, harvested in the North Caucasian branch of VILAR during the budding and flowering phases in 2018, in the Middle Volga branch of VILAR and in the VILAR experimental field during the flowering phase in 2020. The entire study was carried out in accordance with the general pharmacopoeial articles of the State Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation, XV edition. Results. As a result of the studies, morphological and anatomical diagnostic features of the raw materials were established, a method for assessing authenticity by TLC with a standard sample of rosmarinic acid was developed, the nomenclature of numerical indicators and their norms were determined. For the quantitative assessment of biologically active substances, a method for determining the amount of phenolic compounds in terms of rosmarinic acid was developed and validated. Analysis of samples of experimental batches of Moldavian dragonhead herb made it possible to establish the standard content of phenolic compounds in terms of rosmarinic acid of at least 4%. Conclusion. The obtained data allowed us to develop and formalize a normative document – a draft pharmacopoeial article “Moldavian dragonhead herb”.

Physiological and biochemical evaluation of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties in Andijan, Uzbekistan

The study investigated the physiological and biochemical characteristics of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) varieties cultivated in the Andijan region of Uzbekistan. Analysis results revealed that during the flowering phase, the Chinese-275 variety had the highest chlorophyll "a" content in leaves (1.66 ± 0.12 mg/g). In comparison, the Tashkent-112 variety showed the highest chlorophyll "b" content (0.63 ± 0.15 mg/g). The Chinese-275 variety also exhibited the highest carotenoid content (0.65 ± 0.04 mg/g). In the pod formation phase, the Chinese-275 variety again demonstrated the highest chlorophyll "a" content in plant leaves (2.39 ± 0.06 mg/g), the Tashkent-112 variety had the highest chlorophyll "b" content (1.49 ± 0.52 mg/g) and the Chinese-275 variety showed the highest carotenoid content (0.98 ± 0.01 mg/g). In our experiments examining the protein and fat content of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seeds, the Salomat variety exhibited the highest protein content (26.704 ± 0.303 %). The highest fat content was observed in the Mumtoz variety (0.467 ± 0.002 mg/g). These findings

Organic and Inorganic Fertilization Responses of Common Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) CV. Capitano

Background: Common bean is of the most widely cultivated crops in the world, but climate change and soil fertility depletion are leading to reduced yields, particularly noticeable in recent years. Among the challenges of modern agriculture are, on one hand, increasing the quantity and quality of production and on the other, maintaining a positive balance of macronutrients in the soil. The application of high rates of mineral fertilizers can deteriorate soil properties, while entirely organic fertilization is often insufficient to meet the plants’ requirements. This necessitates the use of an integrated approach when selecting fertilizers. Methods: An experiment was conducted with common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris ‘Capitano’), grown as a late-season crop in 2023. A randomized block design was utilized with four replications and three fertilization treatments (organic, mineral and combined fertilization). Observations on growth parameters and yield attributes were recorded and analysed using analysis of variance technique. Result: Common beans exhibit adaptive responses to different fertilization treatments, which influence their development and productivity. The 100% mineral fertilization treatment (266 kg/ha N15P15K15) resulted in the highest values for several key vegetative indicators and a high yield of 10.79 t/ha, as well as maximum nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the plants during the early development stages. In the treatments with entirely organic fertilization (1 t/ha Fertisol), the highest number of nodules in the root system was observed during the Fruiting Stage. However, the slow mineralization of organic fertilizers limited the initial development stages of the beans, reflecting on the final yield. The combined fertilization treatment (500 kg/ha Fertisol + 133 kg N15P15K15) leverages the advantages of both approaches. This treatment showed the highest number of nodules in the root system during the flowering phase, the highest values of plastid pigment content, number of inflorescences, number of leaves, leaf area and plant mass during the second measurement and achieved the highest total yield of 11.18 t/ha. Thus, an integrated fertilization approach is effective for the sustainable management of agroecosystems.

Environmental drivers of the allergenic load caused by Ambrosia artemisiifolia pollen and its major allergen Amb a 1 in the atmosphere.

Understanding the environmental factors influencing the allergenicity of Ambrosia artemisiifolia pollen is crucial for effective allergy prevention. This study, conducted from 2019 to 2022 in Bratislava, Slovakia, utilised a Hirst-type Burkard pollen trap and a Burkard multi-vial cyclone sampler to measure airborne ragweed pollen (by microscopic analysis) and Amb a 1 allergen concentrations (by ELISA), enabling the calculation of pollen allergen potency (PAP). The data analysis showed that annual pollen and allergen levels are affected by meteorological conditions: sunny and dry weather in May accelerated pollen production, while dry conditions in August increased allergenic potency during the main flowering phase. Based on Spearman's correlation analysis, daily allergen levels were significantly associated with pollen concentrations. Regression analysis confirmed the influence of environmental factors on pollen, allergen and PAP levels. Pollen concentration showed a positive association with temperature and wind speed but a negative association with precipitation. Relative humidity was the only meteorological factor negatively linked to allergen levels, while temperature had a negative impact on PAP. The most relevant air pollutants were CO and SO2, which increased allergen levels and PAP, respectively.

Rose ‘Casino’ as an Element of Landscape Architectural Composition in the Courtyard of the Church of St George in Belgrade Under Changing Climate Conditions

Abstract The study analyses the in situ sustainability of the climbing rose ‘Casino’ in the courtyard of the Church of St George in Belgrade. The aim of the research was to assess the impact of changing climate conditions on its phenological flowering pattern. The evaluation assessed frost damage and timing of the phenological flowering phases - bud break, beginning of flowering, full bloom and end of flowering-as well as daily flowering abundance. The findings indicate that bud break timing was correlated with accumulated cold hours, which reached a sum level typical for early - flowering plants (to which the studied cultivar does not belong), as well as the accumulated heat sum for subsequent phenological phases. The flowering began 93 days earlier, and continued uninterrupted until the end of 2024 and into January 2025, with varying abundance. A comparative analysis determined the optimal daily maximum and minimum temperatures for peak flowering −22.9°C (maximum) and 11.7°C (minimum) - and for abundant flowering −20.8°C (maximum) and 9.8°C (minimum). Regression analysis confirmed a decline in flowering abundance when daily maximum and minimum air temperatures exceeded the optimal ranges. These findings have practical applications in urban landscape design, especially considering the projected global warming trends. Despite the resistance of the ‘Casino’ rose’ to changing climate conditions, there is no certainty regarding the stability of the flowering phenophase in the coming years. In line with sustainable global trends, the ‘Casino’ cultivar is recommended for inclusion in Serbia’s first rosarium and for future research programmes aimed at cultivar conservation and breeding improvements. Additionally, given its significance as a 30-year-old element of the landscape architectural composition, it is proposed for protection as a natural asset and as valuable source material for vegetative reproduction.

Metabolic characteristics of Monarda fistulosa L., grown in Crimea

Currently, wild bergamot or bee balm (Monarda fistulosa L.) is a popular essential oil plant containing a wide range of biologically active substances. The purpose of the research was to study the content of biologically active substances in M. fistulosa grown in the foothill zone of Crimea, depending on the vegetation phase. Qualitative and quantitative characteristics of freshly harvested and air-dried raw materials, in terms of the content of different types of biologically active sub-stances, including essential oil, were determined according to generally accepted methods. As a result of the conducted research, the features of the accumulation of essential oil, extractives, common phenolic compounds, phenolic carboxylic acids, flavonoids and tannins during the vegetation of M. fistulosa have been established. We found that the main oil-synthesizing organs of bee balm are leaves and inflorescences. The largest amount of essential oil (3.12 % in terms of absolutely dry weight) was obtained from inflorescences; in the fractional composition of raw materials, they amounted to 60.3 %. The maximum amount of essential oil with thymol as the dominant component (66.22%) was accumulated in plants during the phase of mass flowering (2.97 %). This phase is optimal for harvesting M. fistulosa plants as essential oilseed raw material. It was experimentally determined that the greatest amount of extractive substances and phenolic compounds was obtained during the phases of regrowth and bud formation–early flowering. This is an optimal time for harvesting plants as medicinal raw materials. It should be mentioned that air-dried raw materials of M. fistulosa can be stored for no more than two years. Phytochemical features of M. fistulosa plants grown in the foothill zone of Crimea were studied for the first time in order to use them as essential oil and medicinal raw materials.

Accumulation of cadmium in pumpkin plants depending on the variety and its concentration in precipitation

Pumpkin is grown in various regions of our country, where favorable soil and climatic conditions exist for this. The fruits of this plant have valuable nutrients and many medicinal properties. However, in recent decades, in the Krasnodar Territory, where much attention is paid to this crop, for well-known reasons, intensive contamination of agricultural plants with heavy metals has been observed.. The aim of the work is to determine the accumulation of cadmium in a pumpkin plant, depending on the variety and its concentration in atmospheric precipitation. Experimental data were obtained on meadow-chernozem soil of rice crop rotation in 2020 – 2022. In the experiments, the cultivation technology generally accepted for the Krasnodar territory was used. The research involved varieties of pumpkin plants – Marbled, Prikubanskaya and Chamomile. The aerial application of the CdSO4 solution was performed during the pumpkin flowering phase at concentrations of 1 MPC and 5 MPC. In the course of research, it was revealed that among the studied pumpkin varieties, the Chamomile variety differs in the greatest accumulation of cadmium. The content of the studied chemical element in the stem of the Chamomile variety turned out to be higher than in the stem of the Marbled and Prikubanskaya varieties when applying a solution in 1 MPC by 12 and 22%, respectively, when applied in 5 MPC, by 20 and 36%, respectively. The leaves of the Chamomile variety contain more cadmium than in the Marbled and Prikubanskaya varieties, when applying a solution of 1 MPC, respectively, by 21 and 28 %, when applied in 5 MPC, respectively by 24 and 30 %. In the experiment, the greatest accumulation of cadmium in pumpkin fruits was found for the Chamomile variety – when applying a solution of 1 MPC, the excess over the Marbled and Prikubanskaya varieties was 1,4 and 1,8 times, respectively, when applied in 5 MPC, 1,4 and 2,2 times, respectively. The cadmium content in pumpkin seeds of the studied varieties was insignificant, almost at the control level.

Assesment of biological and economic features of the pinks (Dianthus L.) in the south of Western Siberia

The article summarizes the results of the introduction study of 11 pinks (Dianthus) in Novosibirsk. The relevance of the work is due to the insufficient use of genus representatives in the landscape design of the region. Two groups of species with different seasonal rhythms are distinguished. Early summer species are characterized by accelerated development: they bloom in June, flowering and fruiting periods last 4-5 weeks, vegetative shoots are autumn-green or wintering. In summer species, the phenological development is delayed: the flowering phase begins in July, the flowering period lasts 2-3 months, and the fruiting period lasts up to 7 weeks, the vegetation ends with the onset of autumn frosts. Morphometric indicators of the pinks significant for ornamental effect have been determined. The average height of the flowering shoot varies at the interspecific level from 19.5 cm to 46.0 cm, the average diameter of the flower is 1.6?4.1 cm.The character of germination, quality, and longevity of the pink’s seeds have been studied. The seeds are characterized by fast and friendly germination. High long-term laboratory germination averages 76.6-94.0 %. The economic longevity of seeds (germination rate of 50 % and above) is maintained for 7?12 years, and the biological longevity reaches 12?18 years. Perennial pinks are promising for landscape design in the forest-steppe of Western Siberia due to the totality of biological and economic characteristics.

Optimization of water regime of soybean crops depending on tillage and fertilization systems for sustainable agricultural production

Aim. To determine the dependence of soil moisture accumulation and soybean grain yield on tillage and fertilizer system in chernozem podzolized medium loamy soil. Methods. The field research was conducted in a 4-field crop rotation during 2019-2022 on chernozem podzolized medium loamy soil. The research methods used were field, laboratory, statistical and comparative-calculated. Results. The available moisture reserves in the 0-40 cm soil layer at the BBCH stage of 61-65 soybean under the influence of fertilization and tillage systems of different soils are presented. The peculiarities of soybean productivity formation under the influence of shelf and conservation tillage on mineral and organic-mineral fertilizers are established. Conclusions. The maximum amount of available moisture in the 0-40 cm soil layer was found against the background of organic-mineral fertilizer under chisel (34.9 mm) and differentiated (35.4) tillage systems. The highest soybean productivity (2.49 and 2.55 t/ha) was recorded under conditions of mineral and organic-mineral fertilization in combination with chisel tillage. In the flowering phase, an average correlation between grain yield and available moisture reserves in the soil layer 0-40 cm was found under mineral fertilizer (r = 0.66) and a weak one under organic-mineral fertilizer (r = 0.36). The most significant influence on the formation of soybean grain yield was the fertilizer system, the share of which was 62.5% (P ≤ 0.05). The results of this study can significantly deepen the understanding of sustainable soil resource management and strengthen the adaptation of agriculture to climate challenges.

Evaluation of biological activity of Ferula tatarica Fisch. ex Spreng. for determination of pharmaceutical potential

The article presents scientific information aimed at addressing the challenges of establishing the pharmaceutical potential of Ferula tatarica Fisch. ex Spreng, selected from forb-cereal-meadow phytocenoses in the ecosystems of Northern Kazakhstan. This species is widely used in folk medicine and requires an assessment of its antibacterial, antifungal, and anthelmintic activities. The object of the study is Ferula tatarica samples in the flowering phase, along with plant extracts. Preparation and analysis of extracts in accordance with the State Pharmacopoeia of the Republic of Kazakhstan; analysis of antimicrobial and antifungal properties using serial dilution in agar and disk diffusion; assessment of anthelmintic properties on Lumbricus terrestris. The study also covers the distribution of Ferula tatarica in Northern Kazakhstan and the coenopopulation of the Ferula-timothy (F. tatarica, Phleum pratense) phytocenosis in the Akmola region. The antimicrobial activity of aqueous infusions of the underground and aboveground parts of Ferula tatarica against the tested microorganisms – E. coli, C. papapsilosis, and Aspergillus niger – was revealed. The activity of oil and water-alcohol extracts of Ferula tatarica was also noted against the opportunistic mold fungus Aspergillus spp. Anthelmintic properties were found in oil, water-alcohol, and water extracts, as these affected the behavior and caused the death of Lumbricus terrestris. The greatest effect and the most rapid death of annelids were induced by alcohol tinctures, while oil extracts showed the least effect. Ferula tatarica is present in the coenopopulation of the Ferula-timothy (F. tatarica, Phleum pratense) phytocenosis in the Akmola region of Northern Kazakhstan. Water infusions of the underground and aboveground parts of Ferula tatarica exhibit pronounced antimicrobial activity against E. coli, C. papapsilosis, and Aspergillus niger. Oil and water-alcohol extracts show activity against Aspergillus niger. Furthermore, oil, water-alcohol, and water extracts demonstrate anthelmintic properties, altering the behavior and causing the death of Lumbricus terrestris. The observed biological activity of Ferula tatarica demonstrates its pharmaceutical potential, warranting further research on the species.

Digital Repeat Photography Application for Flowering Stage Classification of Selected Woody Plants

HighlightsWhat are the main findings?The kknn method empowers the phenocamera-based flowering time determination.The effectiveness of the developed methodology depends on the plant’s characteristics.What is the implication of the main finding?The presented method enables the definition of the start, end, and flowering duration.Phenocameras can enhance the efficiency of conventional phenological research.Digital repeat photography is currently applied mainly in geophysical studies of ecosystems. However, its role as a tool that can be utilized in conventional phenology, tracking a plant’s seasonal developmental cycle, is growing. This study’s main goal was to develop an easy-to-reproduce, single-camera-based novel approach to determine the flowering phases of 12 woody plants of various deciduous species. Field observations served as binary class calibration datasets (flowering and non-flowering stages). All the image RGB parameters, designated for each plant separately, were used as plant features for the models’ parametrization. The training data were subjected to various transformations to achieve the best classifications using the weighted k-nearest neighbors algorithm. The developed models enabled the flowering classifications at the 0, 1, 2, 3, and 5 onset day shift (absolute values) for 2, 3, 3, 2, and 2 plants, respectively. For 9 plants, the presented method enabled the flowering duration estimation, which is a valuable yet rarely used parameter in conventional phenological studies. We found the presented method suitable for various plants, despite their petal color and flower size, until there is a considerable change in the crown color during the flowering stage.