Potting Soil Research Articles

Influence of Potting Mixture and Sowing Orientation on Physiological Parameters of Balanites roxburghii (Linn.)

Balanites roxburghii (Linn.) species has been classified under the category of endangered plant species due to excessive exploitation for a variety of purposes, which has necessitated conservation of this tree species, and hence a study was conducted to investigate the effect of potting mixture and sowing orientation on early growth performance and vigour. Seeds were subjected to seven potting mixtures: M1: Soil:Sand:FYM 2:1:1, M2: Soil:Cocopeat:FYM 2:1:1,M3: Soil:Cocopeat:Vermicompost 2:1:1, M4: Soil:Paddy Husk:FYM: 2:1:1, M5: Soil:Paddy Husk:Vermicompost: 2:1:1, M6: Soil: Saw Dust:FYM 2:1:1, and M7: Soil:sawdust: Vermicompost 2:1:1. The seeds were sown in three orientations. S1: Seeds laid vertically with stalk end downwards; S2: Seeds laid horizontally and S3: Seeds laid vertically with stalk end upwards. Physiological parameters considered for assessment were seed germination, days taken for germination, seedling length, and seedling vigor index. A completely randomized design was used for the experiment. The results showed that there is a significant difference among seven different potting mixtures and three orientations. At the end of 8 weeks, the seed is sown horizontally in the potting mixture Soil:cocopeat:vermicompost (2:1:1) has recorded the germination percentage of 71.67%, 37 days taken for seed germination, highest seedling length (64 cm), and highest seedling vigour index (4561). The high-vigor seedlings may survive even in unfavorable conditions, with high survival rate compared to others. The study recommended that to obtain high-vigor Balanites roxburghii seedlings, seeds may be sown in potting mixture soil: cocopeat: vermicompost (2:1:1) with horizontal orientation.

Effect of different concentrations of Copper (Cu) on growth sttributes and bioaccumulation in <em>Celesia argentea</em> and <em>Amaranthus hybridus</em>

Cultivation of vegetables in polluted soil has been on the increase following the perceived fertility of such soil. This study investigated the growth performance and bioaccumulation of copper (Cu) in Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea planted in Cu polluted soil. The research was conducted at the University of Ilorin botanical garden. Vegetable seedlings were transplanted into soil pots pre-treated with Cu - 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg; denoted as T1, T2 and T3 respectively, and a control pot without Cu treatment. Amaranthus hybridus grown in soil polluted with 200 mg/kg of Cu gave the highest stem length at 1, 2 and 3 weeks after transplanting (WAT) i.e., 3.98, 5.00 and 7.05 cm respectively. There was no significant difference in stem girth and leaf length and breadth of Celosia argentea grown in 200 mg/kg Cu (P<0.05). However, leaf length and breadth and number of leaves were significantly higher (P<0.05) in C. argentea grown in soil with same Cu concentration at 3 WAT i.e., 4.63 cm, 2.27 cm and 9.17 respectively. Bioaccumulation pattern recorded in A. hybridus indicated that those grown in soil polluted with 100 mg/kg of Cu have the highest elemental Cu accumulation (73.77 mg/kg). Amaranthus hybridus and Celosia argentea recorded highest wet and dry weights in those planted in soil polluted with 200 mg/kg of Cu.

Preparation of a slow-release fertilizer from MgO-modified biochar and struvite and its capacity for cadmium passivation

This study investigates the development of a slow-release coated fertilizer using magnesium oxide-modified coconut shell biochar (MgO-BC), struvite, and urea. The performance of this coated fertilizer in terms nitrogen and phosphorus release and cadmium (Cd) passivation in Cd-contaminated soil was evaluated through soil column leaching tests and pot experiments. The coated fertilizer, prepared with a mass 6: 2: 1 ratio of MgO-BC: urea: struvite, achieved a compressive strength of 38.6 N/grain. The nitrogen and phosphorus release rates from Cd-contaminated soil treated with the coated fertilizer were 887.391 μg/d and 2.884 μg/d, respectively, representing decreases of 5.0 % and 32.8 % compared to soil treated with struvite and urea. The coated fertilizer demonstrated a good Cd fixation effect in Cd-contaminated soil. The coated fertilizer effectively reduced Cd mobility, with the total accumulated Cd leached from the soil decreasing by 73.2 % after ten leaching cycles. Furthermore, the coated fertilizer significantly inhibited Cd uptake by peas (Pisum sativum L.), with Cd content in the above-ground and under-ground parts of the plants decreasing by 82.78 % and 68.04 %, respectively, compared to the control. The transport coefficient (TFS/R) of Cd for peas decreased by 46.12 %. The Cd passivation efficiency of the coated fertilizer was 37.76 %, attributed to the transformation of acid extractable/exchangeable Cd to residual Cd. These results demonstrate that the coated fertilizer, prepared from MgO-modified biochar and struvite, effectively combines slow releasing nutrient properties with Cd passivation capabilities.

Impact of NPS rates on growth and yield of garlic (Allium sativum L.) varieties in greenhouse

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has both culinary and medical applications. However, the low and uneven nutrient availability in the soil frequently limits the garlic yield. This study aimed to select adaptable garlic varieties under greenhouse conditions using a pot of soil taken from Awada and Wondo Genet and to identify the optimum rates of the newly introduced mineral nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur (NPS) fertilizer on the growth, yield, and yield parameters of the crop. Four garlic varieties; Bishoftu Nech, Tsedey 92, Kuriftu, and local variety were used and treated with four levels of NPS (0-0-0, 78.75-69-12.75, 105-92-17, and 131.25-115-21.25 kg ha−1). The experiment was triplicated and conducted with a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Growth characteristics of the four garlic varieties were evaluated, including days to 50 % emergence, plant height, leaf number per plant, leaf length, fresh weight, dry weight, average bulb weight, and total bulb yield. The findings of this study indicated that the growth, yield, and yield parameters of all four garlic varieties from Awada soil rose as the rates of NPS increased. However, all growth and production parameters of the four garlic varieties gradually fell, starting from the blanket recommendation from Wondo Genet soil. According to this research, the usage of NPS at the rate of (131.25-115-21.25 kg ha−1) resulted in improved growth in Awada soil. Similarly, the rate of (78.75-69-12.75 kg ha−1) was optimum at Wondo Genet soil. In conclusion, determining the optimum rates of the NPS is essential to increase garlic productivity.

Accumulation of coumaric acid is a key factor in tobacco continuous cropping obstacles

IntroductionPhenolic acids are believed to play a significant role in tobacco continuous cropping obstacles, but the strength and potential mechanisms of different phenolic acids remain unclear.MethodsThis study evaluated the allelopathic effects of six phenolic acids that exhibited cumulative effects in our previous research. Different concentrations of phenolic acids with the strongest allelopathic effects were added to potting soil to explore their impacts on tobacco growth and physiological characteristics, as well as on soil chemical properties and microbial community structure. ResultsThe results showed that coumaric acid exhibited the strongest direct allelopathic effect. Exogenous coumaric acid significantly reduced soil pH and shifted the soil microbial community from bacteria-dominated to fungi-dominated. Simultaneously, the abundance of bacteria related to nutrient utilization (e.g., Flavisolibacter, Methylobacterium) and fungi related to disease resistance (e.g., Fusicolla, Clonostachys) gradually decreased, along with a reduction in soil catalase, urease, invertase, and acid phosphatase activities. Leaf MDA levels increased continuously with higher concentrations of coumaric acid, while the root resistance hormone (jasmonic acid and the jasmonate-isoleucine complex) levels show the opposite trend.DiscussionCoumaric acid may inhibit tobacco growth by influencing the physiological processes in tobacco plants directly and the broader soil microecological balance indirectly. This study provides theoretical guidance for precise mitigation of continuous cropping obstacles in future tobacco cultivation.

Co-applied biochar and drought tolerant PGPRs induced more improvement in soil quality and wheat production than their individual applications under drought conditions.

Plant growth and development can be greatly impacted by drought stress. Suitable plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) or biochar (BC) application has been shown to alleviate drought stress for plants. However, their co-application has not been extensively explored in this regard. We isolated bacterial strains from rhizospheric soils of plants from arid soils and characterized them for plant growth promoting characteristics like IAA production and phosphate solubilization as well as for drought tolerance. Three bacterial strains or so called PGPRs, identified as Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus tropicus, and Bacillus paramycoides based on their 16S rRNA, were screened for further experiments. Wheat was grown on normal, where soil moisture was maintained at 75% of water holding capacity (WHC), and induced-drought (25% WHC) stressed soil in pots. PGPRs were applied alone or in combination with a biochar derived from pyrolysis of tree wood. Drought stress substantially inhibited wheat growth. However, biochar addition under stressed conditions significantly improved the wheat growth and productivity. Briefly, it increased straw yield by 25%, 100-grain weight by 15% and grain yield by 10% compared to the control. Moreover, co-application of biochar with PGPRs B. thuringiensis, B. tropicus and B. paramycoides further enhanced straw yield by 37-41%, 100-grain weight by 30-36%, and grain yield by 22-22.57%, respectively. The co-application also enhanced soil quality by increasing plant-available phosphorus by 4-31%, microbial biomass by 33-45%, and soil K+/Na+ ratio by 41-44%. Co-application of PGPRs and biochar alleviated plant drought stress by improving nutrient availability and absorption. Acting as a nutrient reservoir, biochar worked alongside PGPRs, who solubilized nutrients from the former and promoted wheat growth. We recommend that the co-application of suitable PGPRs and biochar is a better technology to produce wheat under drought conditions than using these enhancers separately.

Pleurotus ostreatus is a potential biological control agent of root-knot nematodes in eggplant (Solanum melongena)

IntroductionThe management of root-knot nematodes has predominantly been based on use of chemicals, which are detrimental to the environment and human health. Biological control provides alternative management. This study evaluated the potential of using Pleurotus ostreatus, an edible mushroom species to control Meloidogyne spp. in eggplants.MethodsIn vitro, the mortality of juveniles (J2) of Meloidogyne spp. were assessed i) P. ostreatus - water suspension with actively growing mycelia, and ii) different dilutions of P. ostreatus PDB broth culture filtrates. In the screen house nematicidal potential of P. ostreatus was tested on eggplants using artificially inoculated soils in a screen house. To attain this, juveniles (J2) of Meloidogyne spp. were inoculated at the base of plants in pots containing P. ostreatus colonized millet grains mixed in 3 kg of soil. The galling index (GI) (scale of 0 to 5), root growth and nematode populations in the different treatments were assessed.Results and discussionMortality of nematodes in the P. ostreatus - water suspension significantly increased with time, reaching over 88% at 48 h and 95% at 72 h. Mortality in undiluted filtrate was consistently significantly higher than the diluted filtrates and control without P. ostreatus. Mortality in the undiluted filtrate increased to 95% at 48 h. When 50 g of P. ostreatus-millet culture was mixed with 3 kg autoclaved pot soil, a GI of 0.95 was observed, dropping to 0.70 when the inoculum was doubled to 100 g. For the treatment without P. ostreatus, a high GI of 2.4 was scored. A significant difference in eggplant root growth and nematode population at (p = 0.02) was found across the treatments. The findings from this study for both in-vitro and pot assay suggest that P. ostreatus and its substrate are potential biological control agents for plant parasitic nematodes in eggplants.

Understanding the Feeding Behavior and Identifying the Plant Parts Preferences of Fall Armyworm on Peanut Seedlings

Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, has posed a serious threat to global food security since its discovery in Africa in 2016. Intercropping peanuts with maize is a very common cultivation practice, which can result in a high possibility of peanut damage by FAW. Our study investigated the feeding behavior, plant part preferences, and damage symptoms of FAW larvae on peanuts throughout the larval period, considering changes in population densities and the passage of time over the number of investigations. The results indicated that FAW larvae frequently inhabited peanut leaves, particularly the undersides of the leaves. Larvae moved from the leaves to the soil in the seedling pot to complete development. Furthermore, FAW larvae tended to feed on peanut leaves rather than stems regardless of population densities. Based on the damage symptoms, the feeding preferences of FAW larvae tended to be heart leaves, followed by mature leaves and stems. The most frequent damage symptoms caused by FAW to peanuts were “window panes”, followed by “leafless”. This study provides a reference for the integrated management of FAW in peanut fields.

Impact of Plant Growth-Promoting Microorganism (PGPM) Consortium on Biochemical Properties and Yields of Tomato Under Drought Stress.

Drought is the most important abiotic stress that restricts the genetically predetermined yield potential of the crops. In the present study, four tomato varieties: Kashi Vishesh, Kashi Aman, Kashi Abhiman, and Kashi Amrit, were used to study the effect of PGPMs (plant growth-promoting microorganisms). PGPM strains, Bacillus megaterium BHUPSB14, Pseudomonas fluorescens BHUPSB06, Pseudomonas aeruginosa BHUPSB01, Pseudomonas putida BHUPSB0, Paenibacillus polymixa BHUPSB17, and Trichoderma horzianum, were used as the consortium. The control group was irrigated up to 80% of field capacity, while 7-, 14-, and 21-day water-deficit-exposed (DWD) plants' pot soil moisture was maintained to 40, 25, and 15% of the field capacity, both with and without the PGPM inoculation condition. The physiological parameters, such as electrolyte leakage, relative water content, photosynthetic efficiency, and chlorophyll color index, were significantly improved by PGPM application under progressive drought stress, compared to the control. PGPM application enhanced the proline accumulation and reduced the formation of hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxidation under drought stress. The plant growth attributes were significantly increased by PGPM application. The Kashi Amrit variety showed the highest fruit yield among the four varieties under all the treatments. The PGPM consortium application also improved the soil physico-biological properties and nutrient availability in the soil. The PGPM consortium used in this study can potentially mitigate drought stress on tomato in drought-prone regions and act as a biofertilizer. The present study will open a new avenue of drought stress management in tomato.

Biochar and Deactivated Yeast as Seed Coatings for Restoration: Performance on Alternative Substrates

Seedling establishment is often a critical bottleneck in the revegetation of mine tailings and similar substrates. Biochar and deactivated yeast are potential sustainable materials that could be used in this context as seed coatings to aid in seedling establishment. We conducted a greenhouse study on biochar and deactivated yeast use as seed coatings, assessing germination, establishment, and early growth of white clover (Trifolium repens) and purple prairie clover (Dalea purpurea). Coated seeds were applied to a mine tailing, a coarse granitic sand, and potting soil mix substrates; seedling establishment and growth were monitored over 75 days. Biochar coatings enhanced the seedling establishment of Trifolium, with biochar and biochar plus yeast coatings giving the best results. In some cases, these effects persisted throughout the experiment: biochar coatings resulted in a ~fivefold increase in Trifolium biomass at harvest for plants in the potting soil mix but had neutral effects on sand or tailings. Biochar seed coatings also enhanced Dalea germination in some cases, but the benefits did not persist. Our results indicate that biochar-based seed coatings can have lasting effects on plant growth well beyond germination but also emphasize highly species-specific responses that highlight the need for further study.

Synergistic interactions of biocontrol agents and chemical fungicides enhance the disease resistance in Vigna radiata (L.) against Macrophomina phaseolina-associated with dry root rot

Macrophomina phaseolina, a necrotrophic fungus responsible for dry root rot disease in Vigna radiata L. (greengram) causes extensive yield losses. Biocontrol agents are reported to suppress phytopathogens, mitigate biotic stress, and improve growth and yield of plants. Here, Bacillus subtilis PSB-5 and Trichoderma sp. TD-6 along with chemical fungicides; mancozeb (MZB) and carbendazim (CBZM) were evaluated alone/or in combination for their effectiveness against M. phaseolina-induced root rot disease in greengram. B. subtilis and Trichoderma sp. suppressed phyto-fungal growth by 72 and 78 %, respectively. Both bioagents synthesized indole-3-acetic acid, ammonia, and solubilized insoluble phosphate, released antimicrobial substances including siderophore, hydrogen cyanide, and various extracellular lytic enzymes. Further, efficacy of bioagents and fungicides (at 50 and 100 ppm) were tested (single and combined) against M. phaseolina-infected greengram cultivated in pot soils. While evaluating, bioagents and fungicides increased plant height, biomass, and vigor indices of infected greengram in order: PSB-5 + TD-6 > PSB-5 > TD-6 > MZB + CBZM (100 ppm) > CBZM (100 ppm) > MZB (100 ppm). Further, among treatment, dual inoculation of bioagents (B. subtilis + Trichoderma), maximally increased total chlorophyll (59.4 %), carotenoid (68 %), root phosphorous (69.6 %), root nitrogen (65.7 %), total soluble protein (80 %), soluble sugar (76 %), pod yield (82.3 %) and seed protein (68 %) over infected plants. Moreover, biotic stress-induced oxidative stress biomarkers (proline, malondialdehyde, electrolyte leakage) and reactive oxygen species were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) lowered in fungal-infected greengram following fungicides and bioagents application. Furthermore, combined inoculation of bioagents significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced percent disease index (PDI) and increased % protection in biotic-stressed greengram. Besides, bioagents potentially increased disease resistance in M. phaseolina-infected greengram plants by modulating defense responses such as activities of β-1, 3 glucanase, catalase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase which significantly protected plants from fungal pathogen. Soil populations of pathogen and bioagents declined and considerably increased, respectively, at harvest. Application of antagonistic bacterial and fungal strains enhances greengram resistance to M. phaseolina while concurrently offering agriculture an environmentally friendly choice. Also, these strains can be applied as biocontrol agents in disease suppression over chemical fungicides.

Sound absorption properties of different green wall systems

Façade of the buildings generally consists of acoustically rigid materials. They reflect or scatter sound emitting from sound sources especially main roads thus affects sound environment in a negative way. Applying green walls can be nature-based solution to these urban scale noise. The aim of this research is to compare green wall systems in terms of sound absorption and to determine which one is more effective. Sound absorption at normal incidence of 8 different green wall systems measured via impedance tube in accordance with TS ISO EN 10534-2 standard for 50-6400 Hz. The ivy type, evergreen Hedera Helix plant was used. Potting soil or felt or rock wool was used as a growth medium. As a result, it was seen that the sound absorption of the 'plant + 20 cm potting soil + 10 cm air gap' green wall system was higher than the others. It is followed by the system with 'plant + 20 cm potting soil', 'plant + 3 cm felt + 10 cm air gap' and 'plant + 3 cm rock wool + 10 cm air gap' systems. The sound absorption value was found to be lowest when the plant was applied only as a green façade.

A comprehensive analysis and risk evaluation of microplastics contamination in Australian commercial plant growth substrates: Unveiling the invisible threat

In Australia, quality standards for composts and potting mixes are defined by AS4454-2012 and AS3743-2012. These standards outline key parameters, including physicochemical properties, nutrient content, and plant toxicity. However, they do not address emerging pollutants like microplastics (< 1mm). This study investigates the prevalence and characteristics of MPs in commercial plant growth substrates (PGS), including nineteen potting mixes and five composts, revealing a significant occurrence of MPs, with concentrations ranging from 233 to 7367 particles Kg-1 and an average of 1869 ± 109 particles Kg-1. MPs categorized by shape, size, and color, with fragments (491 ± 34 particles Kg-1), white colour (3700 ± 917 particles Kg-1), and size 500µm being predominant. The polymer composition was diverse, with polyethylene being the most prevalent, followed by polypropylene and others. Polyterpene, Polyalkene, Pentaerythritol, and Propylene glycol were identified in PGS for the first time. The structural equation model showed that physicochemical properties like pH, EC, TOC, and heavy metals influence MPs abundance and characteristics. The Polymer Risk Index and Pollution Load Index indicated varying risk levels among the samples. These findings highlight the need to address MPs contamination in PGS to ensure ecosystem safety and human health. Environmental ImplicationsThe study reveals significant microplastic contamination in Australian commercial PGS, with compost exhibiting higher levels than potting mixes. Application of these contaminated substrates can lead to microplastic release, which can further alter soil properties, disrupt microbial communities, and leach environmental toxins. Current regulations primarily target larger plastic items, neglecting the issue of microplastics (<1mm). The findings underscore the necessity for updated standards and quality controls for commercial PGS. Enhancing public awareness and improving waste sorting are crucial steps to mitigate contamination. Effective source separation is essential for producing high-quality compost and potting mixes. Collaborative efforts among policymakers, industries, and communities are vital for advancing waste management practices and environmental protection.

A Basic Guide to Mushrooms Commonly Encountered in Potted Plants in Florida

Mushrooms growing in potting soil are a common problem reported in nursery production and in potted plants in the indoor and outdoor home landscape. Many of these fungi are saprotrophic and feed on the organic matter contained in the potting soil itself and/or in the mulch, which varies in composition but often contains tree bark, wood chips, pine straw, moss, or leaves. These fungi are not necessarily harmful to the plants, but fungal fruiting bodies can make plants unmarketable. Unknown fungi can also be concerning to retailers and homeowners because of potential toxicity to pets and children. The purpose of this publication is to provide homeowners and retail nursery growers with an overview of some of the most common mushroom-forming fungi found in potted plants and potting soils in Florida. We also provide cultural control recommendations to help prevent or reduce mushroom growth.

Effects of Metribuzin on Soil Microbiome and Weed Management Under Varying Planting Practices and Potato Seed Dormancy

AbstractWeed infestation in potato field has become a major concern to smallholder farmers and environment, requiring sustainable intervention. This study aimed to determine (i) whether metribuzin application rate (0, 0.5, 1 (standard), 1.5, and 2 kg ai ha−1) has effects on soil microbes and soil nutrients in the short term using potted soil and (ii) the influence of potato seed dormancy (short; Shangi variety and long; Unica variety) and planting technique (surface, ridge, or furrow planting) on the efficacy of weed management practice (metribuzin (480 g L−1) herbicide and hoeing) in the field. Bacterial colony counts were recorded upon isolation from the potted soil. Soil nutrients were also analysed before and after metribuzin treatment. Data on crop growth (height and stem count), weed abundance, yield, costs, and revenues were recorded from a field experiment. Morphologically distinct bacterial strains were tested for Gram reaction and response to carbon utilization using analytical profile index kits (API 50 CH and 20 NE). In total, nine distinct bacterial strains were isolated and all were Gram positive, with variation in response to carbon substrates. Concentration of 2.0 kg a.i ha−1 significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced bacterial count in the first day, followed by an increase in the subsequent incubation days, while 1.0 and 1.5 kg a.i ha−1 concentrations had the highest colony development index and species richness. Significant effects of metribuzin on soil pH, total N, and total organic C in the short term were revealed. Notably, weedy plots had the highest Shannon weed index. Weeds reduced stem count and height growth by 57% and 62% respectively. Plots with Shangi had 9.8% lower weed count than those with Unica and hence higher yield was recorded from the former. While surface planting had the lowest weed control efficacy, crop growth attributes, and yield, furrow and ridge planting were not significantly different. Weed abundance and crop growth attributes in metribuzin and hand-hoed plots did not differ significantly, yet hoeing resulted in 5.30 t ha−1 above that obtained from plots managed using metribuzin. Higher dry matter and tuber yield were observed from hoed plots with Shangi planted in furrow or ridge. Use of metribuzin resulted in higher net benefit ratio and marginal rate of return than hand hoeing. The results reveal that use of metribuzin early and later in the potato growing phase can minimize weed infestation, but the efficacy depends on planting method and seed dormancy.

Effect of Cutting Type, Potting Media, and Irrigation Frequency on the Success of Vegetative Propagation of Iriweriya (&lt;em&gt;Plectranthus Zeylanicus&lt;/em&gt; Forssk)

Plectranthus zeylanicus is an indigenous, multi-functional herb used in traditional medicine. Due to over-exploitation from the natural habitats, the species is on the verge of extinction. Therefore, commercial cultivation of the species is needed to satisfy the rising demand while protecting its genetic base. The current study was designed with three trials to identify the most suitable cutting type, potting media, and irrigation schedule for P. zeylanicus. Four distinct cutting types (tip cutting, triple nodal cutting, double nodal cutting and single nodal cutting), five different potting mixtures (topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1, topsoil: sand: compost-1:2:1, topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:2, topsoil: compost -1:1, topsoil: compost-1:2) and four different irrigation schedules (daily watering to field capacity level, daily watering to half of the field capacity level, every other day to the field capacity level, every other day to half of the field capacity level) were used in Completely Randomized Design with ten replicates. Survival percentage (%), number of leaves, the height of the plant (cm), average length of roots (cm), average leaf area (mm2), and chlorophyll content (SPAD Unit) were measured as growth parameters. Data were analyzed using SAS software with a 5% significance levels. Highest survival percentage (95%), highest average root length (26.8 cm), average leaf area (80.5 mm2) and a higher chlorophyll content (31.1 SPAD Unit) were recorded from tip cuttings of P. zeylanicus. Furthermore, the topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1 combination showed a higher survival percentage (90%), number of leaves (3), highest average plant height (43.9cm) and average root length (20.2 cm) with significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher average leaf area (52.3 mm2) and chlorophyll content (31.07 SPAD Unit). Daily watering to the field capacity showed a higher survival percentage (90%), significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) number of leaves (3.7), plant height (51.6 cm), higher root length (25.5 cm), the highest average leaf area (80.0 mm2) and chlorophyll content (32.7 SPAD Unit). Therefore, tip-cutting planted in topsoil: sand: compost-1:1:1 media can be recommended for successful propagation of P. zeylanicus.

Salinity Studies in Quinoa (Quinoa Chenipodoum Willd) from Haditha Desert, Western of Iraq

The present studies were conducted to determine the effect of various concentrations of NaCl salinity on germination and growth of four genotypes of Quinoa Chenopodium Willd, namely G1 (KVL-SR2), G2 (Q-21), G3 (Q-37), and G4 (Regalona), exposed to 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl. The study was conducted at the Center of Desert Research, Egypt, and the experiment was carried out in the Plant Physiology Laboratory of the Center of Desert Studies. Seeds were treated with four different levels of NaCl concentration: 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM. The experiment followed a Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The germination experiment aimed to determine the effect of NaCl salinity on seed germination percentage. Seeds were placed in autoclaved petri dishes lined with two layers of filter paper, with fifty seeds per dish. Seeds were treated with 0, 60, 120, and 300 mM NaCl solutions (5 mL). The petri dishes were kept in the laboratory at temperatures ranging from 25°C to 28°C for four weeks. Water loss from the petri dishes due to evaporation was monitored using control petri dishes, and water was added every 24 hours as needed. A pot experiment was conducted using plastic pots containing 1700 grams of fine-sieved soil. Seeds of the aforementioned genotypes were sown in 500 grams of soil, separated from the rest of the pot's soil by a polythene sheet. Plants were watered on alternate days and subjected to salinity treatment 25 days after sowing. Fifty milliliters of nutrient solution (N ratio of 6:4) were also added to the salt solution per pot. The salt solution was applied to the 1200 grams of soil in the pot, and after complete absorption, the polythene sheet separating the soil containing plantlets was removed, allowing the roots of the seedlings to grow into the saline soil in the lower half of the pot. Thinning was done after one week, maintaining five plants per pot. The plants were harvested one month after the salinity treatment. It was observed that the germination percentage decreased as the salinity level increased. G1 was tolerant, while G4 was salt-sensitive compared to the other genotypes. Plant height, number of leaves, and number of nodes per plant decreased with increasing salt concentration. G3 was least affected, followed by G2, G1, and G4. Fresh weight, dry weight, and percentage water content of the plants also significantly decreased with increased salinity. The distribution of Na+ ions in various plant parts showed a high concentration in the roots, stem, leaf blade, and leaf sheath of all genotypes. The highest concentration of Na+ ions was found in the leaf sheath of all genotypes, followed by the stem, root, and leaf blade, with high water content even under the highest salt levels. An effective partition of Na+ and Cl- ions in the leaf sheath and the transport of K+ to the physiologically important leaf blade were observed in G1, while other genotypes did not exhibit this efficiency. The specific ion effect of NaCl on the total N status of plants was most pronounced in G1, followed by G2 and G3, while G4 maintained optimal N levels in the root and leaf blade. The tolerant genotype G1 could be utilized for rehabilitation in salt-affected areas.

Effect of zeolite application on soil enzyme activity of potted sandy soil cultivated with Swiss chard and cabbage

A zeolite pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council Infruitec-Nietvoorbij in Stellenbosch, South Africa, under greenhouse conditions. The experiment aimed to investigate the impact of zeolite application on soil enzyme activities in sandy soils cultivated with Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris Var. cicla) and cabbage (Brassica oleracea Var. capitata L.) over two years (2018-2019). Different zeolite-to-soil ratios (0:1, 1:9, 2:8, and 3:7 w/w) were used, with each pot containing 12 kg of soil. The experiment involved 72 pots for each vegetable, arranged in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Soil enzyme activities, including acid phosphatase, β-glucosidase, and urease, as well as soil chemical properties (pH, total plant-available nitrogen, organic carbon, and phosphorus), were analyzed. Key findings indicate that the effect of zeolite application on enzyme activities varied between the vegetable species. Zeolite application significantly increased (P

Multipurpose Impacts of Silver Nitrate on Direct Organogenesis of Begonia rex cv. DS-EYWA via Transverse Thin Cell Layering (tTCL) Technique

Begonia rex cv. DS-EYWA is an important plant for indoor and outdoor cultivation, and cv. DS-EYWA is a rare unique cultivar with curly, colorful leaves. Due to their importance, applying plant tissue culture techniques for mass and healthy production in a short period of time without seasonal limitation is of immense economic value. Applying several concentrations of silver nitrate (AgNO3) in combination with varied concentrations of cytokinins including 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), thidiazuron (TDZ) (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5 mgL−1), and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) auxin (0, 0.5, 1 mgL−1) via focusing on transverse thin cell layer (tTCL) petiole explants for high-scale production was used to establish an efficient in vitro propagation protocol. Our results showed that even low concentrations (25 mgL−1) can control internal bacterial infection and increase shoot direct regeneration efficiency. A combination of 1.5 mgL−1 BAP, 0.5 mgL−1 NAA, and 25 mgL−1 AgNO3 was the best treatment to increase the number of direct regenerated shoots, and a lower concentration of BAP (0.5 mgL−1) can be suggested for shoot elongation. Elongated shoots were successfully rooted in MS basal medium and acclimatized in a 1:1 peat moss/perlite sterilized pot mixture.

The effect of natural extracts and tea compost in some root growth parameters of Calendula plant under stress by heavy elements

A factorial experiment was carried out in one of the greenhouses to study the ability of the calendula plants to accumulate and resist growth in soil contaminated with toxic elements and plant treatment using plant extracts and treatment with different proportions of bio-organic aqueous extracts in some root growth indicators. The experiment included the use of three factors. The first factor included two types of plant extracts (licorice root and malt grain) in addition to the control treatment, while the second factor was treating the planting soil with two ratios of tea compost (1/5 and 1/10). The third factor was the treatment of Potting soil with the heavy elements copper and lead and their mixture at a concentration of 5 mg kg-1, the experiment applied according R.C.D with three replicate, and each replicate included 3 experimental units. The results of the study showed a significant impact in the characteristics of the root growth. The intervention treatment (malt extract and a 1/5 ratio of tea compost for calendula plants stressed with two elements lead and copper and those not stressed) had a significant advantage in root length and the number of roots with an average of 39.33 cm and 16.67 roots, respectively. While the interaction treatment (licorice extract not treated with tea compost and stressed with copper) achieved an average of 3.292 gm for the dry weight of the root system, the two triple interaction treatments (malt extract, not treated with tea compost and stressed with lead, and treated with licorice extract, not treated with tea compost and stressed with copper) achieved an average of (44.66, 16.320) mg kg soil-1 root content of lead and copper.