University of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Interspecific Hybridization Characteristics of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duch.) and Winter Squash (Cucurbita maxima Duch.)62463210447010.22059/ijhst.2025.392456.1054ENMaryamPoshteh KeshiDepartment of Horticulture, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranMahmoodLotfiDepartment of Horticulture, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranRezaSalehi MohammadiDepartment of Horticultural Science, College of Agriculture & Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, IranYousefHakimiDepartment of Horticulture, College of Aburaihan, University of Tehran, Tehran, IranJournal Article20250322This experiment focused on the production and evaluation of interspecies hybrids of Cucurbita (Cucurbita maxima × Cucurbita moschata) for use as rootstocks in cucurbit crops such as cantaloupe. The study involved cultivating and crossing various pumpkin and squash varieties under both controlled and field conditions, assessing germination viability and pollen fertility, and evaluating the morphological traits of the rootstocks. These evaluations were conducted over two years (2019 and 2020) at the research field and greenhouse of the University of Tehran, Iran. A total of 307 crosses were performed, of which 17 successfully formed fruit and produced seeds. The results indicated that characteristics such as hypocotyl length and diameter, germination percentage, and pollen fertility are critical factors influencing transplant success. Notably, the hybrids MB525×SI8910 and MB525×SB409 demonstrated strong performance in terms of morphological indices. For instance, MB525×SI8910 exhibited improvements of 44.26%, 22.22%, and 62.16% over the Takii rootstock in terms of hypocotyl length, diameter, and shoot dry matter, respectively. Although some hybrids showed high levels of pollen infertility, likely due to genetic incompatibility and environmental factors, several hybrids with favorable characteristics were identified. These hybrids show promise for use as commercial rootstocks. The observed traits suggest that producing well-adapted hybrids can enhance plant establishment under environmental stress and potentially increase both the yield and quality of horticultural crops. This research offers valuable insights into the application of interspecies hybrids in modern agriculture and underscores the need for future studies to focus on optimizing the genetic and environmental attributes of these rootstocks. https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104470_95beefe1c5665b9e734dd821adef017f.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Elicitors and Secondary Metabolite Production: Review on Mechanisms, Applications, and Perspectives63346410369410.22059/ijhst.2025.387387.993ENSeid HussenMuhieWollo UniversityAbdushakir SeidTeshomeKombolcha Polytechnic CollegeJournal Article20241226Secondary metabolites are essential for plant defense, ecological interactions, and human health. In vitro seed and embryo cultures provide a controlled environment for studying these compounds. This manuscript examines the effects of elicitors on secondary metabolite production in such cultures. It highlights the significance and an application of secondary metabolites, introduces the concept of elicitors, and explains their role in enhancing metabolite production. Elicitors are categorized into biotic and abiotic types, with their mechanisms described in detail. The manuscript includes case studies and experimental data demonstrating the impact of elicitors on various cultures, emphasizing benefits such as increased yield, enhanced bioactivity, and improved quality. Challenges, such as cytotoxicity and response variability, are also discussed. The need for further research to optimize elicitor-based strategies for maximizing secondary metabolite production is underscored. This work serves as a valuable resource for researchers investigating the role of elicitors in plant biotechnology.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_103694_9de3d209a864cb47a0d323e4f99d8f26.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Optimization Grafting of Durio zibethinus using Various Scion Diameters and Hormone Levels64766010376110.22059/ijhst.2025.384750.954ENAminRetnoningsihBiology Department, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, IndonesiaUkkyMaghfirotiBiology Department, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, IndonesiaSyaifulAnwarAgroecotechnology Department, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, IndonesiaJournal Article20241102The expansion of superior durian (Durio zibethinus) cultivation, native to Indonesia, is essential to meet the increasing demand in both domestic and international markets. Grafting is widely recognized as the most effective propagation method for large-scale seedling production. However, the availability of scion material from elite local durian trees is limited, as these trees generally produce thin branches located at heights exceeding 15 meters, making collection challenging. This study evaluated the effects of scion diameter and benzylaminopurine (BAP) concentration, as well as their interaction, on grafting success in superior local durian. A completely randomized factorial design was employed, consisting of three scion diameters (2, 3, and 4 mm) and four BAP concentrations (0, 75, 125, and 250 ppm), resulting in 12 treatment combinations, each replicated three times. The observed parameters included the number of live shoots, bud break time, number of leaves, and grafting and acclimatization success rates. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA at a significance level of P < 0.05, followed by an HSD test, while grafting and acclimatization success were assessed descriptively. The results showed that both scion diameter and BAP concentration had significant independent effects on bud break time and leaf count but not on the number of live shoots. Based on these findings, scion diameters of 3–4 mm combined with BAP concentrations of 75–125 ppm are recommended to optimize grafting outcomes in superior local durian propagation. https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_103761_df4b26c5eb85e7b7150b112d7ee71929.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Growth and Gas Exchange in Grafted Tomato: Impact of Rootstock Type and Irrigation Practices66167410376310.22059/ijhst.2025.386382.975ENSamuelAgelefederal university of technology, akure, nigeriaJournal Article20241202The study investigated the effects of irrigation regimes (well-watered, wet-dry, and dry down conditions) and grafting (whereby high and low vigour rootstock genotypes (Maxifort, Unifort and Beaufort) were grafted unto a commercial cultivar (Money Maker), on the growth, gas exchange (stomatal conductance and photosynthesis) and water use efficiency of tomato. The results showed that irrigation level, especially dry down treatment, increased root and shoot biomass,leaf total soluble sugar contents, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic CO2 assimilation of tomato compared to the well-watered treatment. Tomato root and shoot biomass, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic CO2 assimilation, and the instantaneous (A/E) and intrinsic (A/gs) water use efficiency (WUE) were greater in grafted tomato plants and differed according to rootstock genotypes and soil moisture status. Under well-watered condition, instantaneous water use efficiency was highest for nongrafted scions and lowest for Unifort while for wet-dry situation, the instantaneous water use efficiency was highest for Maxifort and lowest for Unifort. Grafting modified the growth and physiological attributes of tomato and appeared to increase tolerance to rootzone water stress. Key growth and physiological attributes of tomato measured would be useful for selection of rootstock-scion genotypes for improving performance especially under variable watering levels. irrigation regimes and grafting strategies can be adopted for improving moisture deficit tolerance and water use efficiency (water saving attributes) of tomato.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_103763_c4af3fd154debf00d56e8068450393a1.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Brassinosteroids as Sustainable Bioinputs in Lettuce Plant Management67568410376410.22059/ijhst.2025.386512.977ENRamiro NicolásFurioInstituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, EEA Famaillá, Tucumán CP4132, Argentina.Ana CeciliaFernandezInstituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, EEA Famaillá, Tucumán CP4132, Argentina.Nidia AlejandraNeivaAER Tafí Viejo INTA.YamiletCollCentro de Estudios de Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Universidad de La Habana, Vedado CP10400, Cuba.Juan CarlosDiaz RicciInstituto de Química Biológica, Facultad de Bioquímica, Química y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, and Instituto Superior de Investigaciones Biológicas (INSIBIO, CONICET-UNT), San Miguel de Tucumán CPT4000ILI, Argentina.Sergio MiguelSalazarInstituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, EEA Famaillá, Tucumán CP4132, Argentina.
Facultad de Agronomía, Zootecnia y Veterinaria. Universidad Nacional de Tucumán, San Miguel de Tucumán CP4000ACS, Argentina.Journal Article20241204The use of brassinosteroids (BRs) in various crops is increasingly studied to improve yields and productivity. This study evaluated the effect of two BRs on the growth of Lactuca sativa var. 'Divina' under soil and hydroponic conditions. Treatments included 24-epibrassinolide (EP24) and a formulation based on a spirostan analogue (BB16). Both BRs showed growth-promoting effects, with EP24 showing stronger effect. Canopy fresh weight and root fresh weight exhibited an increase of 107% (soil) and 60% (hydroponics), and 34% (soil) and 110% (hydroponics), respectively, in response to EP24. Likewise, the canopy dry weight rose by 35% in soil and 76% in hydroponics, while root dry weight increased by 42% and 118%, respectively, in response to EP24. Leaf area increased by 34% and 68% in soil, and 28% and 33% in hydroponics, in response to BB16 and EP24, respectively. Leaf number rose by 24% (soil) and 34% (hydroponics) with BB16, and 29% and 56% with EP24. Chlorophyll content in hydroponically grown plants also showed an increment of 37% and 40% when treated with BB16 or EP24, respectively, as compared with control plants. Both BRs promoted root development and improved postharvest performance, as evidenced by a reduction of 18% when treated with BB16 and 22% with EP24 in cut leaves under hydroponic cultivation, while the whole canopy loss decreased by 25% and 49%, respectively. In soil, EP24 reduced the whole canopy loss by 35%. These findings highlight the potential of BRs as sustainable bioinputs to enhance lettuce growth and reduce postharvest losses.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_103764_e093e15ddf3652711634142da029f707.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Green Synthesis and Characterization of Silver Nanoparticles using Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) Leaf and Flower Extracts68569810376210.22059/ijhst.2025.386145.971ENSomayehSadeqifardDepartment of Horticultural Science and Landscape Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranMajidAziziDepartment of Horticultural Science and Landscape Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranMahmoudShoorDepartment of Horticultural Science and Landscape Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranNasrinMoshtaghiBiotechnology and Plant Breeding Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, IranShararehRezaeianIndustrial Fungi Biotechnology Research Department, Research Institute for Industrial Biotechnology, Academic Center for Education,
Cultural and Research (ACECR), Khorasan Razavi Province, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20241128In recent years, science and industry have increasingly focused on nanotechnology, particularly the synthesis of nanoparticles. Although various synthesis methods are available, many are inefficient in terms of material and energy consumption. Green chemistry offers an alternative, emphasizing the use of plant-based materials as a reliable, straightforward, non-toxic, and eco-friendly approach that bridges nanotechnology and biotechnology. The present study investigated a novel method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using leaf and flower extracts of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.). When the extract was exposed to aqueous silver ions, reduction occurred, resulting in the green synthesis of AgNPs. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–vis) showed a characteristic absorbance peak at 400 nm, confirming nanoparticle formation. The zeta potential of the AgNPs ranged from –30 to –90 mV, indicating good stability. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) revealed an average particle size of 68.6 nm, while field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images indicated an average size of 65.7 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) confirmed the presence of elemental silver, validating nanoparticle synthesis. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis further supported these findings, showing an average particle size of 67.7 nm. Fouriertransform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy identified peaks at 3436, 2929, 1604, 1383, and 1029 cm–1, corresponding to functional groups involved in nanoparticle stabilization. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that the nanophytosynthesis of AgNPs using T. parthenium extracts is a rapid, efficient, eco-friendly, and simple alternative to conventional synthetic methods. https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_103762_c2b658d4962f21c2d1b783685574c859.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Agrosystem Particularities Enhance the Resilience of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Cultivation and High Quality Fruit Production in Testour, Northern Tunisia69970810491310.22059/ijhst.2025.387613.998ENFATENBOUSSAABP.47 Chott MariemFatenZAOUAYHigher Agronomic Institute Chott Mariem, TunisiaMessaoudMARSHigher Agronomic Institute Chott Mariem, TunisiaJournal Article20241228Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is among one of ancient fruit crops known in Tunisia. The arrival of the Moriscos from Spain has further developed the cultivation of pomegranate tree, which became the emblem of the region of Testour. In order to better characterize and understand pomegranate production systems resilience in Testour, prospections and surveys were conducted in the region. Surveys have taken into account sex, age of farmers, species and varietal diversity, traditional knowledge, marketing of pomegranate fruits, production constraints and farmer’s williness. A total of eleven pomegranate producing areas were identified. As a result of the inheritance of a valuable knowledge from one generation to another, Testour region maintained a large range of pomegranate varieties and traditional agricultural techniques. Old diversified orchards “Andalusian type” were well preserved together with new intensive plantations. Local farmers played a crucial role in the preservation and management of plant genetic resources and biodiversity. Pomegranate fruit gained a particular notoriety. However, some varieties became rare and require special attention to preserve their genetic endowments. Testour agrosystem edaphoclimatic and agrotechnical particularities, inherited and improved local agricultural know-how, historical and landscape specificities constituted favorable conditions for the resilience of pomegranate cultivation. Polyculture practices and the interaction between the diversified system components allowed the production of superior quality fruits. Thus, the already undertaken process of labeling of “Pomegranates of Testour” would reinforce the resilience of this agrosystem of global interest in the context of global climatic and socioeconomic changes.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104913_1dc88781aa46a6d9c934046aa1e35427.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Exploring the Genetic Diversity of Superior Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) Accessions in Sanggau and Singkawang, West Kalimantan Indonesia70972010556110.22059/ijhst.2025.386943.992ENAlia TsabithaPutriciaBiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, IndonesiaAminRetnoningsihBiology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Semarang, IndonesiaKusumadewi SriYulitaEcology and Ethnobotany Research Center, Biology and Environment organization, Badan Riset dan Inovasi NasionalSyaifulAnwarDepartment of Agroecotechnology, Faculty of Animal and Agricultural Sciences, Universitas DiponegoroRafdinalRafdinalDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, Universitas TanjungpuraAntonKamaruddinDepartment of Food Crops and Horticulture of West Kalimantan ProvinceMohamad RezaTirtawinataIndonesian Durian FoundationJournal Article20241221Durian (Durio zibethinus) is a promising tropical fruit and commodity in the domestic and international markets. Indonesia's durian production has increased over the past two years, but only one-third is suitable for export, as the fruit quality does not yet meet market standards. The regions of Sanggau and Singkawang in West Kalimantan are home to several superior durian varieties that thrive in the forests. Characterizing the genetic diversity of these superior durians is crucial for the provision of high-quality durian seedlings. Genetic diversity characterization using molecular markers is more efficient, effective, and independent of environmental factors. Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) is a molecular marker that is relatively simple, fast and does not require prior knowledge of the target genome. This study aims to analyze the genetic diversity of superior durians from Sanggau and Singkawang using ISSR markers. The study detected the allele profiles of 21 superior durian accessions from PCR results using 11 ISSR primers. The results indicated a high polymorphic percentage of 91.73%. Specific alleles were identified in 12 accessions, with a total of 24 specific alleles. This study demonstrates that the genetic diversity of superior durians from Sanggau and Singkawang, as revealed by ISSR markers, is relatively high, as each accession originated from a seed.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_105561_28aee746b53a684f465621b059defc1f.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Synergistic Effects of Rhizosphere Temperature and Growing Media on Growth and Physiological Attributes of Strawberry cv. ‘Akihime’72174210491410.22059/ijhst.2025.388534.1006ENSirajoSalisu JibiaDepartment of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, ThailandKANOKWANPANJAMADepartment of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, ThailandCHAIARTIDINKHAMEconomic Flower and Horticultural Crops Research Cluster, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand0000-0002-8868-1028NorikuniOhtakeGraduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Niigata 950-2181, JapanSORAYARUAMRUNGSRIDepartment of Plant and Soil Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, ThailandJournal Article20250109Strawberries are high-value crops prized for their nutritional and economic significance. This study hypothesized that root-zone temperature (RZT) and growing media (GM) influence strawberry growth and physiological responses. While individual effects of RZT or GM have been studied, little is known about their combined impact on hydroponic strawberries. To address this gap, we investigated how RZT and GM affect growth, stolon formation, and physiological changes in ‘Akihime’ strawberries. A factorial experiment was conducted using four RZT treatments (10 ± 2, 15 ± 2, 20 ± 2, and 25 ± 2 °C) and two growing media (peat moss + perlite and water culture). The greenhouse conditions were maintained at 25 ± 2 °C with 70–80% relative humidity and a photosynthetic photon flux density of 241 µmol m–2 s–1. The results indicated that RZTs of 15 ± 2 °C and 20 ± 2 °C improved overall plant growth and biomass accumulation, while 25 ± 2 °C promoted stolon and runner development but hindered daughter plant formation. Substrate-based media outperformed water culture in supporting stolon and runner production. Leaf nitrogen and potassium concentrations peaked at 10 ± 2 °C and 15 ± 2 °C, respectively, with water-culture medium enhanced nitrogen uptake. Leaf ATP concentration was highest at 20 ± 2 °C in substrate-grown plants, whereas root ATP peaked at 25 ± 2 °C in water culture. These findings demonstrate that careful management of RZT and GM can improve greenhouse strawberry productivity, and growers can tailor production strategies to meet specific cultivation goals.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104914_9db5c3feab2400c22478b46f70fb26d4.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Assessment of Flavonoid Biosynthesis and Activity of Antioxidant Enzymes in Two Sweet Orange Cultivars under Foliar Treatments and Water Stress74376010491510.22059/ijhst.2025.391816.1045ENTaherehKakuoiDepartment of Food Science and Technology, Quchan branch, Islamic Azad University, Razavi Khorasan, IranEsmaeilAtaye SalehiDepartment of Food Science and Technology, Quchan branch, Islamic Azad University, Quchan, IranElhamMahdianDepartment of Food Science and Technology, Quchan branch, Islamic Azad University, Razavi Khorasan, IranJavadFattahi MoghadamHorticultural Science Research Institute, Citrus and Subtropical Fruits Research Center, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), Ramsar, IranJournal Article20250309The post-harvest deterioration of orange fruit quality, including weight loss and changes in biochemical attributes, which is exacerbated by drought stress and can be influenced by pre-harvest treatments and storage conditions. This two-year study (2021-2022) analyzed the contribution of pre-harvest foliar applications of chitosan (500 ppm) and melatonin (100 µM), individually and in combination, on the post-harvest quality of ten-year-old ‘Valencia’ and ‘Thomson Navel’ orange trees under well-watered and water-stressed (40% FC) conditions. The experiment, conducted at a commercial citrus orchard in Sari, Iran, employed a factorial experiment based on RCBD design with irrigation levels and foliar treatments as pre-harvest factors. During the post-harvest stage, fruits were stored for 0, 30, 60, and 90 d under either traditional or modified atmosphere packaging (MAP: 10% CO2, 5% O2, 85% N2) at 5 °C. Results indicated a significant increase in weight loss of fruit, reaching a minimum of 118.1 g for ‘Valencia’ and 175 g for ‘Thomson Navel’ after 90 d. Additionally, total soluble solids increased during storage, while MAP effectively mitigated weight loss. Drought stress further decreased fruit weight and TSS. However, chitosan and melatonin, particularly when used together, inhibition of loss of weight. The combined treatment resulted in the smallest weight reduction (3.08%) in ‘Valencia’ oranges after 30d. Antioxidant enzyme activities (DPPH,APX,SOD,POX,PPO, and PAL) generally increased with storage, but MAP decreased DPPH, SOD, and POX activities, while increasing APX and PAL. For instance,the highest DPPH activity (52.64%) was observed after chitosan application. Drought stress and chitosan/melatonin increased antioxidant enzyme activity.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104915_9484cc77447052814b35fb61d00cae45.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Analysis of Olive Oil Yield and Quality in Iranian Olive Varieties: A Study of the Minodasht Collection76177210491210.22059/ijhst.2025.383753.935ENSayed AliHoseiniGorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural ResourcesAzimGhasemnezhadدانشیار، دانشگاه کشاورزی و منابع طبیعی گرگان، دانشکده علوم زراعی، گروه باغبانی، تخصص: گیاهان داروییEsmaeilSeifiGorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural ResourcesIssaKaramatlouMinodasht Agricultural Jihad Center, Ministry of Agricultural Jihad, Minodasht, Golestan, IranJournal Article20241014This study aimed to identify and characterize olive cultivars with high nutritional value to enhance profitability in olive cultivation, olive oil production, and export. We focused on genotypes from the Minodasht olive collection, which represents a substantial portion of Iranian olive diversity. A two-year study (2020–2022) was conducted to evaluate 23 and later 30 genotypes for tocopherol content as well as qualitative and quantitative olive oil indices. After olive fruit collection, we analyzed olive oil quality by measuring acid value (free fatty acid percentage), peroxide value, and alpha-tocopherol content. The maturity index and oil content were assessed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy based on dry weight, while alpha-tocopherol was quantified via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) according to ISO 9936 standards. Our results showed significant variability among olive genotypes in tocopherol content and oil quality. In 2020, Azadshahr 2 and T12 had the highest alpha-tocopherol levels (273.89 and 222.67 mg L<sup>–1</sup>, respectively), while T23 and Benvareh 7 had the lowest (168.34 and 169.95 mg L<sup>–1</sup>). In 2021, T14 and Chamjeh 1 recorded the highest levels (192.87 and 192.85 mg L<sup>–1</sup>), whereas Savari and Malek Shahi had the lowest (72.43 and 16.73 mg L<sup>–1</sup>). Notably, significant differences in acidity were observed, with T23 and T24 showing the lowest values in 2020, and Shiraz and Torshk in 2021. Overall, genotypes Azadshahr 2, T12, T14, and Chamjeh 1 displayed superior olive oil yield and quality, highlighting their potential for improved cultivation and commercial use.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104912_a48da56121127d3743a8c19709bfabc9.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Evaluation of Sustained and Regulated Deficit Irrigation Effects on the Performance of a Field-Grown Olive Cultivar ‘Zard’ (Olea europaea L.) under Semi-Arid Conditions77378810556010.22059/ijhst.2025.385084.960ENSamiraAhmadipourFormer Ph.D. Student of Department of Horticultural Science, Agricultural Science and food technology Faculty, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranIsaArjiDepartment of Horticultural Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, Razi University, Kermanshah, IranAliEbadiDepartment of Horticultural Science, Faculty of Science and Agricultural Engineering, Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Tehran University, Karaj, Iran.VahidAbdossiDepartment of Horticultural Science, Agricultural Science and food technology Faculty, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20241108Deficit irrigation as a water-saving strategy for olive trees in semi-arid regions of Iran has received limited research attention. This study addressed this gap by investigating its effects on the ‘Zard’ olive cultivar over two years. Six irrigation regimes were compared, including control (C) (100% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc) throughout the growing season), Sustained Deficit Irrigation 1 (SDI1) (75% ETc throughout the growing season), Sustained Deficit Irrigation 2 (SDI2) (50% ETc throughout the growing season), Regulated Deficit Irrigation 1 (RDI1) (75% ETc from 4 to 9 weeks after full bloom), Regulated Deficit Irrigation 2 (RDI2) (50% ETc from 4 to 9 weeks after full bloom) and Regulated Deficit Irrigation 3 (RDI3) (50% ETc for 2 weeks before harvest). Sustained deficit irrigation (SDI1 and SDI2) and RDI2 negatively impacted flower number and perfect flower formation (except RDI3) in the second year. Fruit set was not significantly affected by RDI1 and RDI3 compared to the control, but SDI2 significantly reduced both fruit weight and pulp-to-pit ratio. Fruit yield and oil content were negatively affected by SDI1, SDI2, and RDI2 compared to the control. However, RDI1 and RDI3 showed no significant difference from the control in these aspects. Regulated deficit irrigation (RDI1 and RDI3) with a minor reduction in applied water is recommended for semi-arid regions (excluding Mediterranean climates) to achieve high fruit yield and oil content while conserving water.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_105560_d19803b18401506ef1eb5e4547c90f8f.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Enhancement of Growth and Essential Oil Traits of Spearmint and Peppermint through Mycorrhizal and Trichoderma Inoculations78980210463510.22059/ijhst.2025.390047.1024ENSimaHosein-ZadeDepartment of Horticultural Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.Mohammad-TaghiEbadiDepartment of Horticultural Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.MahdiAyyariDepartment of Horticultural Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.Journal Article20250206This study evaluated the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and Trichoderma harzianum on growth, essential oil (EO) yield, and physiological traits in two spearmints (Mentha spicata) and one peppermint (Mentha × piperita) landrace. AMF treatments included Glomus etunicatum and Glomus fasciculatum, while T. harzianum was also tested. Combined inoculations significantly enhanced plant height, EO yield, and phytochemical composition. Spearmint plants treated with G. fasciculatum + T. harzianum reached the tallest height, and EO yields peaked at 2.8% in spearmint (Qaemshahr landrace) and 2.6% in spearmint (Vardavard landrace) under similar treatment. Limonene content in spearmint reached 20% with G. fasciculatum, while carvone peaked at 54% with G. etunicatum + T. harzianum. In peppermint, menthol content was highest (40.25%) with T. harzianum alone, and L-menthone peaked (34.9%) under G. fasciculatum + T. harzianum. Photosynthesis rates, stomatal conductance, and transpiration rates were highest in peppermint treated with G. fasciculatum + T. harzianum during the second harvest. Additionally, the greenness index peaked in peppermint treated with T. harzianum alone. These findings demonstrate the synergistic potential of AMF and T. harzianum in improving growth, physiological traits, and EO production in mint species, offering a promising strategy to enhance commercial mint cultivation.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104635_bcb086544afcca07584a131b93f6fe18.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Variability Assessment of New Developed Lines of Chia (Salvia hispanica L.)80382010570210.22059/ijhst.2025.390454.1030ENMona AhmedTahaFloriculture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.Mohamed FouadMohamedDepartment of Vegetables, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Egypt.Adel M. MohamedMahmoudAgronomy Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.AzzaTawfikFloriculture Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.Journal Article20250213Three populations of chia (Salvia hispanica) were used. They were obtained from different sources. No realistic differences were detected among these populations; therefore, only one chia population was chosen for the current breeding assessment. Due to the wide range of plant heights observed, this variable was used as a classification factor among the germplasm. It is easy to be distinguish visually and is usually used as a monitor to seed yield. The plant height was categorized tall population (90-110 cm), medium (70-89 cm) and short (50-69 cm). Because chia is self-pollinated and fertilized crop, it was assumed to be a composite of pure lines. Progeny test results confirmed the genetic purity status (homozygosity) of the selected plants within population of different plant height categories. Narrow sense heritability estimated by parent-offspring regression ranged from 0.26 (spike length) to 0.97 (plant height). Consequently, the expected selection response values were high for the most studied traits. All traits exhibited strong genotypic associations and were associated with unity (1.00) in some cases with seed weight per plants. This was reflected well in the parameters of the correlated response and relative efficiency of indirect selection. Selection for seed weight affected all other traits with varying degrees of correlated response. breeding chia lines were derived following tandem multi-traits selection. Two of these lines (1 and 7) seemed to hold a promise for improving chia. These lines may directly be utilized in production of chia after testing their stability or as parental genetic material in cross breeding.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_105702_324bfb9c1b434c0eef9d0b2107e6607e.pdfUniversity of TehranInternational Journal of Horticultural Science and Technology2322-146113420261001Impact of Foliar Application of Fullerene Nanoparticles on the Development, Productivity, and Synthesis of Secondary Metabolites in Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) during Two Distinct Harvest Phases in a Pot Experiment82183210463610.22059/ijhst.2025.391135.1036ENSeyede ZahraAhmadiPh.D, Department of Horticulture Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University, Khorram abad, Iran.Journal Article20250228Purpose: Biostimulants are compounds that enhance plant productivity by activating metabolic processes, resulting in increased growth and synthesis of secondary metabolites through the stimulation of plant defense mechanisms. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of carbon nanoparticles (fullerene) on the growth and yield of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) during two harvest periods in 2021.<br />Methodes: The research was conducted using a factorial arrangement within a completely randomized design with three replications in an open-field environment at the Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University.<br />Results: Results showed that treatment with fullerene nanoparticles significantly increased the fresh and dry weights of aerial parts, the number of flowers, essential oil concentration, and parthenolide content in the plants. Additionally, the harvest stage had a significant impact on morphological traits, with the first harvest stage producing the best growth characteristics.<br />Conclusions: These findings could help in developing effective strategies for enhancing secondary metabolite production in medicinal plants.https://ijhst.ut.ac.ir/article_104636_008f99ad66990813c9556476e9400e87.pdf