Temperate Fruit Research Articles

Discrepancies in methodologies to determine chill requirements in temperate fruit trees constrain guidelines for future plantings in a global warming context

Temperate fruit trees enter a dormant state and resume growth development once cultivar-specific chill requirements (CR) are fulfilled. Sustainable fruit production requires crucial knowledge of the CR of the varieties to predict the adaptability of crops to future climate conditions. Experimental methodologies based on exposing shoots to forcing conditions, and statistical methods based on analysing long-term phenology records, such as Partial Least Square regression (PLS), are commonly used to estimate CR. To demonstrate the importance of unifying methodologies, we compared CR estimations from six approaches that included bud weight increase (30 % and 50 %), different percentages of bud break (30 %, 50 % and 90 %) after forcing conditions, and PLS regression. The CR of four almond and four apricot cultivars were experimentally and statistically determined in Murcia, South-Eastern Spain. Comparisons between approaches revealed that the choice of the method had a significant effect on the estimates. Large variation in CR estimates was found between PLS regression and the experimental methodologies in some late-flowering cultivars. To assess the adaptation potential of a certain cultivar to future climate conditions based on the CR estimates obtained through the different methodologies, we compared the probability of fulfilling cultivar-specific CR's under two global warming scenarios. Projections revealed a marked decreasing trend of chill availability in the region, which is already threatening the cultivation of genotypes with high CR. This study demonstrates that the variability of methodologies used to quantify CR has an important impact on assessing the probability of a successful adaptation. CR obtained by a certain methodology suggest that insufficient chill might be an increasingly common situation for some cultivars, potentially resulting in production risks. Conversely, other methodologies appear to indicate a more favourable performance for the same cultivar. Implementing standardized methods and metrics is essential to ensure more reliable information regarding the prospects for future crop adaptation.

Climate Change Challenges in Temperate and Sub-Tropical Fruit Tree Cultivation

In the last few years, the world has experienced the impacts of climate change, such as elevated mean annual temperature, extreme weather events, drought, etc. Among living organisms, perennial plant species are the ones mostly exposed to climate change impacts, as they may experience different extreme events within the same year, such as flooding during some periods and drought in summer months, extremely low temperatures in winter but excessively high temperatures in summer, etc. Climate change affects a range of physiological functions of temperate fruit and nut tree species, such as their phenophases, bud dormancy release and vernalization, pollination and fruit set, fruit growth and quality, as well as bud sprouting and growth initiation. Besides these, the impact of climate change on pests, diseases, and weeds may generate significant negative interactions with tree physiology, threatening food production, food safety, and human welfare. In the present manuscript, a general aspect of climate change impacts on fruits’ and nut trees’ physiological functions is described and commented on.

Suitable areas for temperate fruit trees in a Brazilian hotspot area: Changes driven by new IPCC scenarios

Chilling accumulation and sufficient water availability are mandatory requirements for most temperate fruit trees (TFT) productivity. Given the strong dependence of these crops on air temperature and water availability, it is imperative to analyze the impacts of climate change on TFT, especially in areas considered persistent climate change hotspots. This study analyzed the impacts of climate change on suitable areas for planting TFT in a Brazilian state considered a hotspot for future climate changes - Minas Gerais, using an Agroclimatic Zoning (AZ) method, and outlined adaptation measures for the sustainable cultivation of the main TFT under future climate scenarios. Daily near-surface air temperature (minimum and maximum) and precipitation data were used from 10 Earth System Models (ESMs) from the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX-GDDP), which are derived from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6), in two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways scenarios (SSP2–4.5 and SSP5–8.5). The AZ method was applied for the current climate simulations (1995–2014), as well as for projections by the near (2041–2060) and far future (2081 – 2100) climate conditions considering two base temperature values (Tb = 7ºC and 13ºC). Given intense and persistent increases in air temperature, water deficit, and reduced chilling accumulation, TFT plantations will be restricted and economically unfeasible for about 69% (SSP2.4–5) to 86% (SSP5.8–5) of Minas Gerais in the far future for both Tb values. Only ∼6% (near future) and ∼2% (far future) of the study area located in a small portion of the Southern region of Minas Gerais will be suitable for TFT plantations. However, the future of TFT plantations in places classified as regular will depend on adopting adaptation measures to reduce vulnerability to these crops, including low-chill genotypes selection, improvements in breeding programs, using strategies to break dormancy artificially, and intensifying irrigation with less water-demanding techniques.

Breeding approaches for improvement of temperate fruit crops and nuts - a review

Fruit breeding is an ancient technology with dynamic current technology and an exciting future (Janick and Moore, 1975, 1996). In its broadest sense, fruit breeding refers to the purposeful genetic improvement of fruit crops through various techniques including selection, hybridization, mutation induction, and molecular techniques. Its origins trace to the domestication process in prehistory and antiquity, where useful species were chosen and cultivated, and improved by continuous selection (Janick, 2005, 2011). Much of the world fruit industry is still based on grower selection from chance seedlings as well as mutations (sports) and as a result many fruit species are characterized by a narrow germplasm base. Spontaneous hybridization between wild plants and cultivated clones was critical to the early domestication of fruits. The lengthy juvenile period and the large field space required to grow temperate fruits have imposed major limitations on conventional breeding and various molecular biological techniques have been employed to make fruit breeding easier. (Igarashi et al.2016). Marker-assisted selection (MAS) uses DNA markers to provide an early DNA-based evaluation of genetic performance potential of seedlings, with the aim of improving cost and/or genetic efficiency of seedling selection (Ru, et al., 2015). Transgenic technology has facilitated the development of fruit trees with resistance to fungal or bacterial diseases, improved fruit quality, or root stocks with better rooting or dwarfing ability. In recent years, new technologies for genetic improvement, such as transgrafting, and genome-editing, have emerged. (Mudge, et al. 2009; Jia and Wang 2014). Using these techniques, no foreign genes are present in the final product, and some of them show considerable promise for application to apple breeding. Furthermore, genome editing, by which only the target gene can be accurately modified, is emerging as a novel breeding technology. These new technologies will undoubtedly facilitate fruit breeding, and yield novel and attractive fruit cultivars.

Development Prospects of Apple Farming in India

The cultivation of apples in India has observed significant growth and transformation over the years, becoming a crucial component of the country's horticultural landscape. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of apple production in India, highlighting key factors influencing its cultivation, challenges faced by growers, and the economic impact on the agricultural sector. The review begins by exploring the historical evolution of apple cultivation in India, tracing its origins and the introduction of different apple varieties. It examines the geographical distribution of apple orchards across the country, emphasizing the diverse agro-climatic zones that contribute to the cultivation of this temperate fruit.

Girdling for Enhancing Morphogenetic Potential of Temperate Fruits: A Review

Girdling for Enhancing Morphogenetic Potential of Temperate Fruits: A Review

A Regional Perspective of Socio-Ecological Predictors for Fruit and Nut Tree Varietal Diversity Maintained by Farmer Communities in Central Asia

The five independent countries of Central Asia, namely Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, contain one of the richest areas in the world for the specific and intraspecific diversity of temperate fruit and nut tree species. Research was carried out via the collaboration of national research and education institutes with local community-based agencies and farmer communities. Raw data (2014 observations) for almond, apple, apricot, cherry plum, currant, grapevine, pear, pomegranate, and walnut were collected at the household (HH) level across the five countries: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Kyrgyzstan. A set of models was used, including household variety richness as the dependent variable, to understand the influence of socio-ecological variables on the amount and distribution of crop varietal diversity in the farmers’ production systems. Four variables were included as explanatory variables of variety richness (fixed factors): ecoregion, ethno-linguistic group, management, and abiotic stress. The results show clear evidence that abiotic stress determines a higher richness of intra-specific diversity in the form of local varieties grown by farmers living in climatically unfavorable areas. The results for the studied ecoregions follow the same trend, with ecoregions with harsher conditions displaying a higher positive correlation with diversity. Mild environments such as the Central Asian riparian woodlands show an unexpectedly lower diversity than other harsher ecoregions. Ethno-linguistic groups also have an effect on the level of varietal diversity used, related to both historic nomadic practices and a culture of harvesting wild fruit and nuts in mountainous areas. The home garden management system hosts a higher diversity compared to larger production systems such as orchards. In Central Asia, encouraging the cultivation of local varieties of fruit and nut trees provides a key productive and resilient livelihood strategy for farmers living under the harsh environmental conditions of the region while providing a unique opportunity to conserve a genetic heritage of global importance.

Prevention of preharvest fruit drop in apple- A menace in temperate fruit industry

Prevention of preharvest fruit drop in apple- A menace in temperate fruit industry

Apple Revolution in the Tribal District of Kinnaur: From Tradition to Technology, Horticulture Redefined with Quality Assurance and Sustainability

Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, Kinnaur has garnered renowned niche as a veritable paradise for apple orchards. Its distinction arises from the harmonious convergence of climatic conditions, featuring a unique blend of dryness, temperance, and cold that fosters the perfect environment for apple cultivation. Within this rich tapestry of crops, apples stand as the undisputed sovereign, commanding a remarkable 90% share of the total cultivated fruit area and making an astounding 99% contribution to the overall fruit production in the region. The significance of apples transcends mere Horticulture and agriculture statistics; it has become an emblem of Kinnaur's Horticulture expertise and a substantial pillar supporting its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The orchards of Kinnaur are not just fruitful in terms of their produce but are also laden with the economic promise that this quintessential cash crop brings to the region. The growth trajectory of apple cultivation in Kinnaur reads like a tale of prosperity and ambition. Over the years, the cultivation of apples has witnessed a breathtaking expansion, evolving from a modest 670 hectares of apple orchards in the early 1970s to an expansive 10,925.5 hectares by the year 2022-23. This exponential surge in apple cultivation has yielded astounding results, with a record-breaking apple production of 83,324 metric tons per hectare, achieving a remarkable productivity rate of 7.63 metric tons during the year 2022-23.In this idyllic setting, the apple orchards of Kinnaur flourish, standing as a testament to the region's Horticulture and agricultural prowess, economic vitality, and its unceasing commitment to the cultivation of the 'fruit of kings.' Royal Delicious, celebrated for its exquisite taste and crisp texture, rightfully commands the spotlight in Kinnaur's apple orchards, where it dominates the landscape, constituting a staggering 90% of the apple varieties grown. The year 2022-23 witnessed Kinnaur's apple production soaring to new heights, with the district proudly yielding a bounteous harvest of 84,192.93 metric tons of temperate fruits, sprawled across an expansive expanse of 12,142.6 hectares. However, even within this remarkable success story, the apple industry in Kinnaur faces a set of formidable challenges that demand attention and innovative solutions. One pressing issue lies in the prevalence of traditional apple cultivars, which, while deeply rooted in Kinnaur's heritage, often hinder the production of high- quality fruits. The rigid adherence to these time-honored strains limits the potential for innovation and improvement. Compounding this challenge is the daunting topography of Kinnaur's terrain, marked by steep and treacherous slopes. This rugged landscape presents an additional obstacle to the introduction of new apple cultivars, making the transition to improved strains an uphill battle, both literally and figuratively. Furthermore, the dearth of access to these new and improved apple cultivars, coupled with a knowledge deficit regarding their cultivation, adds complexity to the task of enhancing fruit quality. Another issue contributing to the challenge is the conventional orchard layout prevalent in most of Kinnaur's apple orchards. These orchards are arranged in a square method with low-density plantings of old standard apple trees. While this traditional approach may be deeply ingrained in our culture and has a unique manifestation of purity and nutrition. However, these modern systems feature high-density plantings of vibrant, good-colour strain apple trees, promising superior fruit quality. The shift to such high-density systems aligns with the changing preferences of consumers and the need to meet international export standards, making it essential for Kinnaur's apple industry to embrace innovation, adapt to modern practices, and invest in knowledge dissemination to maximize its full potential in apple cultivation.

Geo-information Technology-Based Suitability Site Selection for Temperate Fruits of Apple, Peach, and Plum in Tigray Region, Northern Ethiopia

Introduction: Growing temperate fruits in its appropriate region is important for growers and is used as a means of improving agricultural production, helps to improve livelihood of the community and source of income. The land needs to careful and appropriate use that is vital to achieve optimum production and productivity, and to guarantee environmental sustainability for the future generation. This requires an effective and up to date land information for effective utilization, management, and for decision making purpose. All agricultural crops, needs their ecological requirements for modelling the spatiotemporal distribution of land suitability potential and for performing agricultural activities effectively and accurately. There is a problem related to proper site selection for growing temperate fruits in the Tigray region and to solve this problem GIS-based suitability site selection for growing temperate fruit trees is important for getting better production and to help in improving the livelihood of the community.
 Methods: To identify the ecological requirements, for growing temperate fruits considers the physical, meteorological, and landscape environmental factors. To come up with the best suitability regions, physical, meteorological, and landscape spatial layers of the study area were collected from different primary and secondary data sources and stored in a personal geodatabase with the same resolution, cell size, and projection system. After collecting the important parameters, reclassification of these factors and using their influences, overlay analysis was performed to get the potential suitability sites for apple, plum, and peach fruits, and the model result was validated using ground control points.
 The Results: According to the overlay-based suitability modeling approach, suitability sites of these low chilling temperate fruits were identified and mapped. Apple has a potential of 21% as suitable land and 79% as an unsuitable area of the total area of 54,573km2, peach has a potential of 17% as suitable land and 83% as unsuitable land and plum has a potential of 27% as suitable land and 73% as unsuitable land in Tigray region. Around 50 ground control points (GCP) was collected from the ground, and 80% of the ground data were fitted with the suitability sites found from the overlay analysis modeling.
 Conclusion: This information was used as a baseline information for different agricultural experts, stakeholders, research organizations, NGO’s and policy makers for growing of low-chilling temperate fruits and getting a good production in the region.

Watermoss Mulching Stimulates the Productivity and Physiochemical Properties of Strawberry in the Tropical Ecosystem of Southern Bangladesh

Strawberry is one of the most lucrative antioxidants and phytochemicals enriched temperate fruits. Nevertheless, good-quality fruit production requires special soil management practices like mulching and other strategies in tropical and sub-tropical regimes with short and dry winters. In the present research, strawberry var. BARI Strawberry-3 was cultivated using Asian watermoss (AW), water hyacinth (WH), paddy straw (PS), black polythene (BP), and silver polythene (SP) mulching along with control at the tropical weather-inclined southern part of Bangladesh from October 2018 to April 2019. The aim was to evaluate the comparative influences of those organic and synthetic mulches on root and shoot growth phenology along with subsequent reproductive behaviors, fruit yield, and fruit biochemical properties of strawberries under such an ecosystem. The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Mulching exhibited statistical superiority over control for strawberry growth, yield, and fruit quality indicators, where organic mulches performed better than others. Among the mulches, AW mulching produced the healthiest plant, having maximum plant height (20.40 cm), leaf number (23.33 per plant), canopy diameter (34.30 cm), single leaf area (100.06 cm2), and root length (19.05 cm) resulting in the highest root and shoot biomass. Though the plants received AW mulch required maximum duration from transplanting to flowering (47.88 days) and flowering to harvest (29.60 days), those plants produced the highest number of flowers (21.20 per plant) as well as fruits (19.63 per plant), and ultimately the utmost fruit yield (370.02 g/plant and 15.42 kg/ha) being significantly dissonant from all other treatments. Thus, a 57.57% yield increase over control was recorded from AW mulching. Furthermore, statistically, the maximum total soluble solids (TSS) (9.93%), TSS/acidity ratio (17.37), and vitamin C (58.30 mg/100 g), but the minimum titratable acidity (0.57%) content of strawberry was noticed in AW treatment. WH and BP mulches had statistical consistency with the best treatment for a few attributes. Therefore, crop residues, aquatic plants, or their by-products can be used as mulch for quality strawberry production in dry winter, especially in tropical and subtropical regions.

A Comparative Analysis of Apple Production Across Districts in Himachal Pradesh: Exploring Time Series Trends and Growth Rates

Apples (Temperate fruit) contributed significantly 81.2% to the total horticultural output in Himachal Pradesh in the year 2021-22. With the growing interest among youth over apple crop cultivation, the variations in apple production across different districts have also highlighted the importance of comprehensive understanding of trends and patterns in apple crop production. Consequently, the present study aimed to analyze apple production across districts of Himachal Pradesh, taking into consideration time series analysis, district wise production, and growth rate evaluation. The study examines the trends, growth rates, and variation in apple crop production across different districts of Himachal Pradesh, India, over a decade (2012-2022). The analysis of district wise data reveals diverse growth patterns, with some districts experiencing substantial increases in both area and apple production, while other face challenges with fluctuations in production despite moderate growth in area. The study compares district wise production and evaluates growth rates to identify districts that have experienced higher or lower rates of growth over time. The one-way ANOVA analysis confirms that the production of apple crop varies significantly across different districts in Himachal Pradesh. The regression analysis demonstrates a strong positive relationship between the area of apple crop and apple production with approximately 72.6% of the variation in production explained by the area. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers to formulate strategies that support sustainable agricultural development and address specific challenges faced by districts.

The pear genomics database (PGDB): a comprehensive multi-omics research platform for Pyrus spp.

BackgroundPears are among the most important temperate fruit trees in the world, with significant research efforts increasing over the last years. However, available omics data for pear cannot be easily and quickly retrieved to enable further studies using these biological data.DescriptionHere, we present a publicly accessible multi-omics pear resource platform, the Pear Genomics Database (PGDB). We collected and collated data on genomic sequences, genome structure, functional annotation, transcription factor predictions, comparative genomics, and transcriptomics. We provide user-friendly functional modules to facilitate querying, browsing and usage of these data. The platform also includes basic and useful tools, including JBrowse, BLAST, phylogenetic tree building, and additional resources providing the possibility for bulk data download and quick usage guide services.ConclusionsThe Pear Genomics Database (PGDB, http://pyrusgdb.sdau.edu.cn) is an online data analysis and query resource that integrates comprehensive multi-omics data for pear. This database is equipped with user-friendly interactive functional modules and data visualization tools, and constitutes a convenient platform for integrated research on pear.

Mycotoxin Determination in Peaches and Peach Products with a Modified QuEChERS Extraction Procedure Coupled with UPLC-MS/MS Analysis.

Peaches are the most significant temperate fruit crop worldwide. However, peach fruits are susceptible to fungal and mycotoxin contamination. Consequently, monitoring the residual levels of multiple mycotoxins in peaches and related products is essential. In this study, a novel method based on QuEChERS extraction, followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) detection, was developed for analyzing 14 mycotoxins in peaches and peach products from China. Matrix-matched calibrations were employed to accurately quantify the mycotoxins and compensate for matrix effects. Recoveries for the target analytes ranged from 84.6% to 117.6%, with intra-day and inter-day precision below 20%. The limits of quantification were 2 or 5 μg/L for the 14 mycotoxins. This method was utilized to detect the presence of target mycotoxins in 109 fresh peaches, 100 diseased peaches, and 89 peach products from China. Six mycotoxins were identified in the rotten parts of the diseased peaches, with concentrations ranging from 5.2 to 1664.3 µg/kg. In the remaining parts of the diseased peach samples, only two toxins, alternariol (AOH) and alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), were quantified at levels of 15.3 µg/kg and 15.5 µg/kg, respectively. No mycotoxins were detected in fresh peaches. For peach products, all contamination levels were below the quantitative limits and significantly lower than the maximum legal limits established for the products.

Amesuviridae: a new family of plant-infecting viruses in the phylum Cressdnaviricota, realm Monodnaviria.

The phylum Cressdnaviricota comprises viruses with single-stranded, circular DNA genomes that encode an HUH-type endonuclease (known as Rep). The phylum includes two classes, eight orders, and 11 families. Here, we report the creation of a twelfth family in the order Mulpavirales, class Arfiviricetes of the phylum Cressdnaviricota. The family Amesuviridae comprises viruses that infect plants and is divided into two genera: Temfrudevirus, including the species Temfrudevirus temperatum (with temperate fruit decay-associated virus as a member), and Yermavirus, including the species Yermavirus ilicis (with yerba mate-associated circular DNA virus as a member). Both viruses encode Rep proteins with HUH endonuclease and SH3 superfamily helicase domains. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that the replicative module of amesuviruses constitutes a well-supported monophyletic clade related to Rep proteins from viruses in the order Mulpavirales. Furthermore, both viruses encode a single capsid protein (CP) related to geminivirus CPs. Phylogenetic incongruence between the replicative and structural modules of amesuviruses suggests a chimeric origin resulting from remote recombination events between ancestral mulpavirales and geminivirids. The creation of the family Amesuviridae has been ratified by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV).

Management of San Jose Scale (Quadraspidiotus perniciosus) by HMOs and Insecticides in Apple Orchards of Kashmir, India

Apple is attached by number of insect pests, among them San Jose Scale (Quadraspidiotus perniciosus) is key pests. San Jose scale (SJS) attacks temperate fruit crop in the state of J&K. It sucks sap from, twigs, branches, and fruits, weakens the plant and the fruits having scale infestation is rendered unthrifty and unmarketable. The pest causes great loses to apple in quantity and quality and debilities apple tree by vigour and health. The objective of this study was to examine efficacy of HMOs as dormant sprays at different concentrations to manage San Jose scale (Quadraspidiotus perniciosus Comstock) and two insecticides viz Chlorpyriphose 25EC and Dimethoate 30Ec at different concentrations were checked for their bio-efficacy in same orchard in late spring during 2021-22. On the basis of pooled data for years for revealed that highest cumulative mean mortality (79.48%) was recorded with the application of Bal spray at concentration of 2.5% followed by 77.56%. mortality of SJS @ 2.5% concentration by HP oil. Chlorpyriphose recorded 71.98% pooled mean mortality at 0.03 5 concentration.

Assessing acceptability of wild and cultivated hosts of Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) under semifield conditions.

Lycorma delicatula White (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) is an invasive phloem feeder with a broad host range that includes both hardwood trees and cultivated temperate fruit crops. Here, we evaluated acceptability of wild hosts, A. altissima and Juglans nigra L. (Fagales: Juglandaceae) and cultivated hosts Vitis vinifera, Malus domestica (Rosales: Rosaceae), and Prunus persica L. Batsch (Rosales: Rosaceae) to L. delicatula under field conditions. Fluorescent-marked early instar nymphs, late instar nymphs, or adult L. delicatula were released at the base of single potted host plants and the number of individuals retained was recorded over 24 h. Paired choice trials with A. altissima and another host plant were conducted. Individuals retained on or moving between plants were recorded over 24 h. Sentinel A. altissima, J. nigra, V. vinifera, M. domestica, and P. persica potted plants were deployed at 5 sites and the number of L. delicatula present on each plant was recorded weekly. In single and paired host trials, early instars and adults were generally retained in higher numbers on A. altissima and V. vinifera, and late instars were retained on A. altissima and J. nigra. Significantly more L. delicatula were present on sentinel A. altissima compared with other host plants, except J. nigra during the period when late instars were the most prevalent lifestage in the field. These results indicate that wild hosts such as A. altissima and J. nigra are likely supporting establishment of L. delicatula populations, and that presence of cultivated V. vinifera may contribute to population establishment and growth.

Insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying responses of apple trees to abiotic stresses.

Apple (Malus[Formula: see text]domestica) is a popular temperate fruit crop worldwide. However, its growth, productivity, and quality are often adversely affected by abiotic stresses such as drought, extreme temperature, and high salinity. Due to the long juvenile phase and highly heterozygous genome, the conventional breeding approaches for stress-tolerant cultivars are time-consuming and resource-intensive. These issues may be resolved by feasible molecular breeding techniques for apples, such as gene editing and marker-assisted selection. Therefore, it is necessary to acquire a more comprehensive comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underpinning apples' response to abiotic stress. In this review, we summarize the latest research progress in the molecular response of apples to abiotic stressors, including the gene expression regulation, protein modifications, and epigenetic modifications. We also provide updates on new approaches for improving apple abiotic stress tolerance, while discussing current challenges and future perspectives for apple molecular breeding.

Single-Bud Expression Analysis of Bud Dormancy Factors in Peach.

Transcriptomic and gene expression analysis have greatly facilitated the identification and characterization of transcriptional regulatory factors and effectors involved in dormancy progression and other physiological processes orchestrated during bud development in peach and other temperate fruit species. Gene expression measurements are most usually based on average values from several or many individual buds. We have performed single-bud gene analysis in flower buds of peach across dormancy release using amplicons from the master regulatory DORMANCY-ASSOCIATED MADS-BOX (DAM) factors, several jasmonic acid biosynthetic genes, other genes related to flowering development, cell growth resumption, and abiotic stress tolerance. This analysis provides a close view on gene-specific, single-bud variability throughout the developmental shift from dormant to dormancy-released stages, contributing to the characterization of putative co-expression modules and other regulatory aspects in this particular tissue.

Preparation of a multilayer antibacterial film and its application for controlling postharvest disease in temperate fruit (including apple, pear, and peach) under ambient storage.

The objective of this study was to provide formulation of a new multilayer antibacterial film and to investigate the optimal use concentration of chitosan and carboxymethyl cellulose in the range from 0.5% to 2%, as well as its application for controlling postharvest disease in temperate fruit (apple, pear, and peach). The multilayer antibacterial film used chitosan (CS) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as polysaccharide macromolecule, lemon essential oil (LEO) as active agent, and ε-polylysine (ε-PL) as the main antibacterial ingredient. The results showed that the physical properties of the self-assembled film were adjusted by the electrostatic layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis and thermogravimetric (TGA) revealed that hydrogen bonds were generated during the self-assembly of CS-LEO/CMC-ε-PL film, resulting in changes in intermolecular interactions and thermal stability. Furthermore, compared with CS-LEO single-layer film, the multilayer film exhibited higher retention rate of LEO. In vivo test, the self-assembled film significantly inhibited the infection of postharvest pathogenic fungi including Penicillium expansum (P. expansum) and Alternaria alternata (A. alternata) on fruit. To summarize, the CS-LEO/CMC-ε-PL LbL self-assembly coating notably controlled postharvest pathogen rot on fruit, and reduced the loss of fruit during storage and transportation. Our results suggest that the polysaccharide-based edible coating prepared in this work may offer an alternative to synthetic waxes.