Articles tagged with Horticulture
A new article published in Crop Science journal provides comprehensive information on the disease's pathology, progression, and management of large patch, a fungal disease that can compromise turfgrass health. Effective management strategies include proper mowing, fertilizing, and watering practices.
Rajeev Varshney, a Murdoch University professor, has been elected as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. He is recognized for his groundbreaking work in genomics, genetics, and pre-breeding, helping to secure food production in the face of climate change.
Researchers at Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new avenue to combat the Cucumber mosaic virus by directing the plant's natural defences. The RNA-based active agents have shown high efficacy in laboratory experiments, protecting 80-100% of treated plants from infection.
A new analysis reveals that nearly half of the genus Heliconia, a group of tropical plants related to birds-of-paradise and bananas, are threatened with extinction. Many imperiled plants are not found within protected areas or botanical gardens, making additional conservation action crucial.
The International Workshop on Space Agriculture and Horticulture 2025 will take place from March 9-11, 2025, at Chiba University. Researchers and postgraduate students can register for free via a Google form, with a registration deadline of March 7, 2025.
Botanic gardens have reached peak capacity, hindering efforts to gather plant diversity for study and protection. Despite accelerated rates of extinction risk, institutions struggle to conserve threatened plants within collections globally.
Climate change may lead to increased production of legumes such as chickpeas and soybeans, while oranges and okra become more widely grown. This could support shifts towards a more balanced diet and lower carbon footprint, but also poses economic and environmental risks.
A new software package called TraitTrainR offers a framework for replicating the evolutionary process many times over. It can perform flexible evolutionary experiments through probabilistic simulations on a computer, allowing researchers to generate thousands-to-millions of evolutionary replicates.
Researchers explore gene editing as a way to breed rice with tolerance to higher nighttime temperatures, which are becoming increasingly common in the largest rice-growing regions. The technique has shown promise in reducing grain yield losses and improving quality.
The Compendium of Rose Diseases and Pests, Third Edition, is a comprehensive guide to diagnosing diseases, identifying pests, and expanding expertise in rose health management. Edited by industry experts, the book features over 50 contributing authors and provides practical guidance for students, researchers, educators, and professionals.
Researchers discovered that plants in shaded conditions receive a larger proportion of green and far-red light, which contributes to photosynthesis. This finding may help growers develop new methods for supplementing natural sunlight with colored light.
A cutting-edge study decodes the genetic mechanisms behind purple tea's unique coloration and high anthocyanin content. Researchers identified key genes CsMYB75 and CsANS governing anthocyanin biosynthesis, offering a roadmap for breeding health-promoting tea varieties.
A new multi-state study identified three management tips to extend green color and reduce cold-weather injury in hybrid bermudagrass: raising mowing height, applying nitrogen fertilizer in the fall, and maintaining adequate soil moisture. The research found that slow-release nitrogen applications through mid-September had positive impa...
A cutting-edge study reveals (-)-carvone's potent and sustainable alternative to chemical herbicides. The compound targets and degrades microtubules in weeds, inducing cell death and inhibiting growth. This breakthrough opens new avenues for using natural compounds in sustainable agriculture.
A recent study uncovered how magnesium deficiency affects tea plants' photosynthesis, flavor profile, and overall health. The CsMGT5 gene was identified as a critical regulator of magnesium homeostasis, offering potential pathways for improving tea quality through better nutrient management.
A new functional data analysis-based methodology predicts crop yields in year-round cultivation, offering a predictive framework for optimizing agricultural management. The model provides actionable insights into the relationship between environmental conditions and crop performance, enhancing sustainability amidst climate change.
A study on East Asian chestnut varieties reveals significant genetic diversity and adaptation mechanisms. The research identified key genes associated with temperature and precipitation adaptations, highlighting the molecular basis for these species' environmental adaptability.
A new grant aims to evaluate the role of soilless substrates on pests and pathogen risks in hydroponic systems. The research will address both human and plant pathogens, providing strategies for safer hydroponic production.
A new study by Newcastle University shows that citizen scientists can accurately identify slug species with proper training and support. The research found that participants improved their identification skills throughout the project, with accuracy rates ranging from 47-70%.
Researchers combined DNA markers from two genotyping systems to improve genomic predictions and GWAS for 24 fruit traits. The results showed increased accuracy and detection power when using combined datasets, suggesting benefits to leveraging historical data.
Researchers found that ants need three main things to succeed when hitchhiking: climbing ability, foraging/colonizing behaviors, and temperature tolerance. The study tracked the spread of invasive ants through non-commercial transport on personal vehicles, highlighting a significant threat to native species.
Mithila Jugulam has been appointed Co-Editor-in-Chief of Pest Management Science, bringing expertise in weed physiology and molecular biology. She aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation, while maintaining the journal's commitment to scientific rigor and editorial integrity.
Research by Rupesh Kariyat and Alejandro Vasquez found that frequent mowing of silverleaf nightshade boosts its survival capabilities, leading to deeper taproots, toxic berries, and faster germination rates.
A new study finds significant variation in pollinator attractiveness among annual flower cultivars, with some varieties drawing in more insects than others. Begonia and impatiens cultivars were found to be particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Researchers have determined the molecular level function of free-forming structures in plant cells that help sense light and temperature, enabling plants to distinguish a range of different light intensities. The formation of these organelles is not random but is linked to specific locations within the cell, particularly near centromeres.
A new analysis of the sunflower family tree shows that flower symmetry evolved multiple times independently among its members. The research, led by Penn State biologist Hong Ma, used low-coverage genome sequences to increase the number of species available for comparison and resolved more of the finer branches of the family tree.
Researchers utilized femtosecond X-ray crystallography to track structural alterations in PSII after laser flash illumination. The findings revealed intricate dynamics of electron transfer, proton release, and substrate water delivery, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying oxygenic photosynthesis.
A new study shows that Africa's rice production can be increased by employing improved agronomic practices such as soil nutrition, weed control, and water management. This can help meet projected demand of 150 million tons by 2050 without increasing imports or land conversion.
Plant scientists have discovered a sophisticated RNA defense system that plants use to attack gray mold cells, sending mRNA molecules that disrupt fungal cellular processes. This innovative approach could lead to the development of eco-friendly fungicides with minimal environmental impact and no harm to humans or animals.
A recent UMD study reveals that cross-pollination significantly improves the quality and quantity of soybean pods, with open-pollinated flowers producing more grade-A beans. The research also suggests that a greater biodiversity near fields can lead to increased yields by attracting beneficial pollinators.
A new study by North Carolina State University researchers found that consumers prioritize flower species, symmetry, and color in floral arrangements. Roses were a key factor in capturing consumer attention, with many willing to pay more for arrangements featuring this popular flower.
A team of scientists led by the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture has been awarded a $3.57 million grant to develop spinach cultivars resistant to fungal pathogens. The project aims to expedite breeding for disease resistance, reducing fungicide use and supporting sustainable spinach production.
Researchers found that cold temperatures increase glucosinolate levels in some kale varieties, while others decrease it. This affects the nutritional value of the plant, with curly kale and Lacinato kale showing different responses to temperature.
A team of researchers at the University of Johannesburg has made a groundbreaking discovery about how tomato plants defend themselves against the devastating ToCSV virus. By studying the molecular genetics of infected tomato varieties, they found that viral DNA methylation plays a crucial role in resistance to ToCSV.
Researchers successfully modified the ethylene synthesis pathway in the Japanese luxury melon to increase its shelf-life. The study found that introducing a mutation into the CmACO1 gene reduced ethylene generation, resulting in firmer fruit and longer shelf life.
A new study analyzed existing research on bee-protective measures and found that many common methods are backed by minimal scientific evidence. Researchers urge stronger testing to evaluate effective measures and warn of potential waste of time if ineffective.
A new machine learning algorithm analyzed high-resolution digital images of herbarium specimens, revealing that factors other than climate have a strong effect on leaf size within a plant species. The study also demonstrates how AI can be used to transform static specimen collections and quickly document climate change effects.
The DOE has committed $237.9 million to the Center for Advanced Bioenergy and Bioproducts Innovation (CABBI) for a five-year extension, continuing groundbreaking work toward U.S. energy independence. Researchers will develop fuels and products by integrating three highly interconnected priority areas.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University identify vital differences between the plants, including pollinators and lifespan, confirming their classification. The study highlights the importance of recognizing every species for conservation programs.
A new UC Riverside-led study reveals that drought-tolerant trees in urban areas use significantly more water than their natural counterparts. The research found that even 'drought-tolerant' species like eucalyptus and ficus increase their water intake when irrigated.
A novel 'retipping' method produces nine-times as many plants in a similar amount of floor space compared to traditional stem cuttings. The research found that all three methods resulted in similar plant growth and chemical profiles, with retipping requiring the least propagation space.
Researchers discovered a species of grass, seashore paspalum, that can tolerate diverse stresses and aid in crop development. The study revealed the plant responds to nutrient deprivation by doubling its production of a sugary molecule called trehalose, which helped corn seedlings grow faster and larger without added nutrients.
Researchers found that fertilizers change the electric field surrounding a flower, affecting bees' ability to navigate and feed. This alteration lasts for up to 25 minutes and can persist beyond a single use of chemicals.
Researchers found the moths originated from the Baja Peninsula and Arizona, with a new subspecies discovered in western North America. The study recommends using synthetic pheromones to control the invasive pest.
Research at Abu Hureyra, Syria, suggests that hunter-gatherers may have tended small numbers of animals outside their dwellings between 12,800 and 12,300 years ago. This finding challenges the widely held view that crop cultivation began first.
Home gardens in Central Asia serve as living genebanks, maintaining a rich diversity of fruit and nut tree species. However, the increasing popularity of foreign varieties poses a threat to local biodiversity, highlighting the need for integrated conservation efforts.
A Dartmouth-led study found that urban gardens with rare plant species tend to attract rare bee and bird species. Women, older gardeners, and those living near the gardens are more likely to curate these rare plants, suggesting a cascading effect on biodiversity.
A University of Illinois study found tomatoes in Chicago backyard gardens have low levels of lead, making them relatively safe for consumption. However, improper soil handling and lack of washing can still pose health risks. Researchers recommend minimizing dust with heavy mulch and careful fruit washing to safely grow tomatoes.
Researchers found that domesticated rye has smaller recombining regions, making it less resistant to climate change. In contrast, wild rye has a more diverse genetic makeup and can freely recombine its genetic material.
Scientists at UC Riverside demonstrate CRISPR technology can make permanent physical changes in the insect, passed down to three or more generations. The technology may hold promise for controlling the sharpshooter and preventing Pierce's Disease.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in gardening, with about one-third of participants starting to garden in 2020 due to increased free time. Some respondents planned to continue gardening due to its psychological benefits and potential for food security, despite concerns about inflation.
A two-year study shows that even a 4m² space can provide a rich habitat for pollinators and support biodiversity. The mini-meadows attracted an average of 111% more bumblebees and 87% more solitary bees compared to control plots.
Researchers found that common houseplants like Peace lily, Corn plant, and fern arum can remove nitrogen dioxide from the atmosphere, reducing pollution levels. In a poorly ventilated office, five plants could reduce NO2 levels by up to 20%.
A study by University of Illinois researchers found that applying dicamba at the latest growth stage and using a safener can help minimize injury to sweet corn. The results suggest that dicamba could be used safely in sweet corn with proper application timing and formulation, offering practical guidance for farmers.
A new internet-connected lighting system for greenhouses can optimize lighting and reduce electrical costs by up to 33% by predicting sunlight. The system uses sensors and algorithms to adjust light levels, making the most of natural sunlight and minimizing energy waste.
A comprehensive diagnostic guide for Volutella blight has been published by the American Phytopathological Society. The guide provides a detailed review of the three fungal pathogens causing Volutella blight and compares its diagnostic traits with other boxwood fungal diseases.
Scientists have analyzed the lychee genome to uncover its ancient history and identify genetic markers for breeding programs. The study found that lychees were domesticated independently in two regions of China, Yunnan and Hainan, leading to early- and late-maturing varieties.
A new study reveals that Xanthomonas euvesicatoria has evolved to evade the immune system of tomato plants by changing a single amino acid in its flagellin proteins. This finding poses significant challenges for breeding disease-resistant tomato varieties, forcing farmers to rely on fungicides and copper treatments.
A new study reveals that balancing iron and phosphorus levels is crucial to prevent chlorosis, a condition associated with yellowing leaves. The research team found that removing phosphorus can help restore photosynthesis, highlighting the need for more environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
A team of researchers from UC Riverside has discovered how a small molecule called auxin triggers the growth process in plants. By analyzing cell walls, they found that auxin lowers pH levels, causing cells to become acidic and soften, allowing them to expand and grow.